• Here are four sophisticated fireplace designs to warm up any home! Peninsula Fireplace Open on three sides (hence the name), this modern design can be enjoyed from virtually any vantage point. Suspended Fireplace For a distinctly modern look, a suspended fireplace can hang from the ceiling or be mounted to a wall. Fire Ribbon Designed […]

  • Redoing your kitchen floor on your own is an ambitious undertaking that can be accomplished with the right supplies, tools and know-how. Whether you want to redo your floor by yourself to save money or simply for a sense of accomplishment, there are various ways to get the job done. Here are several things that […]

  • Its no secret that the kitchen ranks highly among luxury homeowners. Often described as the heart of the home, this is where families gather together and make memories, which is why you want a cooking area thats a cut above the rest. Here are a few key features thatll enhance your kitchen, as well as […]

  • Regular maintenance is an ongoing process for every homeowner. Keeping up with smaller projects is essential if you want to avoid major problems down the road. With a little bit of preventative maintenance, you can ensure that your home remains beautiful and efficient for years to come. Here are four areas of your home that […]

  • Your home is your haven, and its style can say a lot about your personality. One feature can even hint at your traits when guests arrive”the door knobs! According to Weiser, a security solutions provider, the following knob finishes can be indicative of your personality as a homeowner: Bright Brass. Ideal for those with a […]

  • Roof damage can occur suddenly”for example, if shingles are blown off in a storm”or a small leak can gradually grow larger. A leaky roof can affect the inside of your house as well as the foundation. It can also affect your familys health by causing mold that can trigger allergic reactions and lead to breathing […]

  • Homeowners insurance is an important financial safeguard to protect you, your home and other assets from potential disasters or accidents. Its also an added expense homeowners need to budget for. Depending on the size and location of your home, as well as which insurance provider you choose, policy prices can vary widely. To help you […]

  • Bringing a historic home into the 21st century is a balancing act of the highest degree. You want the latest luxuries without having to get rid of the charming period details of yesteryear. Whether youre in the market for a home that exudes Old World craftsmanship or youre ready to breathe new life into your […]

  • Home insurance may be one of the last things youll think about when buying a home, but in some situations, insuring your biggest asset isnt so easy. And without insurance, you wont be able to qualify for a home loan. Here are five things that can make getting home insurance difficult, or at least more […]

  • If you’re like many people, you tend to do at least a little work from home. Dont let an outdated office hold you back. Give your home office an upgrade by splurging on something inspirational. Something that excites you. Next, focus on lighting. The best bet is to set up your work station by a […]

  • So you want to add a little feng shui flavor to your home? The following tips can help foster a strong connection between your space and your energy, which can impact the way you feel when you move through your home, and attract positivity in your life. 1. Pay attention to your entryway. Everyone likes […]

  • Published with permission from RISMedia.

  • Smart home technology continues to grow in popularity among luxury buyers, and millennials in particular. Its a feature that can help your property to stand out from the rest, yet many homeowners are still on the fence about installing an automation system in their home. Truth be told, there are plenty of benefits of having […]

  • Something every new homeowner wants is to feel safe and secure. Here are steps you can take to ensure that feeling. Do a little research and look into things like the crime rate in the area. Find out about neighborhood watch groups and how they work. Change the locks as soon as you move in. […]

  • If you have a small bathroom and/or a large family, storage space is at a premium. Without a solid organizational system, a bathroom can quickly become cluttered. Items that belong in the bathroom may get shoved into other closets, which can make finding things a hassle. Here are some tips to help you make the […]

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  • So you’ve got new kitchen cabinets. Congratulations! But now what? For those wondering how to finish their brand-spanking-new cabinets, we run down the pros and cons of painting vs. staining”the two most popular finishing avenues. The kitchen is one of the most important factors in your homes value, so consider how the following information impacts […]

  • Here are three instant advantages you can expect when adding mature trees to your property. Increased Property Value Studies have shown that mature trees can increase a homes value by as much as 19 percent.. Improve Your Outdoor Space Add instant privacy to your backyard by screening out the neighbors or create a shady canopy […]

  • When its time to file taxes, people want to claim as many deductions as possible. Home improvements are defined for tax purposes as work that increases the value of a home, extends its useful life or modifies it so it can be used for a new purpose. Examples include adding a new room, upgrading plumbing […]

  • Between the craziness of work, social events and family, its difficult to find the time to clean the house, let alone do a deep cleaning. Although we all somehow manage to clean regularly enough to keep our homes looking and smelling fresh, many people also likely ignore some commonly overlooked problem areas. Are you ready […]

  • If theres one part of a home where you can cut loose and have fun, its the game room. Whether youre a pool shark or board game enthusiast, having a designated area to spend leisure time with friends and family is a luxury that cannot be overlooked. While these recreation spaces can be a challenge […]

  • Financial problems can strike at any time. An illness or injury can leave you or your spouse unable to work, or a childs or parents medical issue can require you or your spouse to cut back on work hours, take an extended period of time off, or quit. In such a situation, your family may […]

  • When a potential homebuyer comes by to look at your home, they will most likely park their car and walk to the front door via the driveway. And that means one of the earliest impressions they will have of your home in-person is of the driveway itself. While we tend not to think much about […]

  • If you’ve owned a home for several years and made responsible financial decisions, you may have built a significant amount of equity. Home equity is the difference between the current market value of your house and the amount you still owe on the mortgage. If the value is greater than the debt, you have positive […]

  • If you’re like many people, you tend to do at least a little work from home. Whether you full on run a business out of your living space or simply need a nook to work on your finances or groom your Pinterest board, the following tips can help you upgrade that home office. Splurge on […]

  • As millennials continue to have an ever-increasing impact on the luxury property market, its important to consider how this can affect your homes value. Over the past few years, millennials have established that their tastes and preferences significantly differ from those of their parents. If youre hoping that your house will appeal to this new […]

  • Pests, carbon monoxide and mold”oh my! These hazards can be hiding in a home and, if left unchecked, could cause serious health issues or become costly. Thankfully, these and many other issues are easily manageable. If you want to ensure your home isnt at risk, HomeAdvisor suggests starting with these six possible household problems: 1. […]

  • Whether youve owned a home for years or are buying your first home, purchasing insurance can be confusing. Some of that confusion can come from policy myths that are often not true. If ignored, thesefive home insurance myths could cost you in the long run. Flood coverage is standard. Flood insurance isnt usually part of […]

  • Heres how to elegantly illuminate your property after dusk. Create Evening Curb Appeal Sconces around the front door or a driveway lamp post add significant curb appeal. Illuminate your Landscaping Spotlight your garden and other plantings around your property to show them off at all hours. Light Up the Walkways Soft and subtle lighting is […]

  • Exercise rooms have fast become an expected amenity for luxury homebuyers. Being able to stick to your daily fitness regimen or have a session with a private trainer without leaving your house is an extraordinary convenience. Besides, we dont all have time to get to the gym! Some people hear the term home gym and […]

  • Flooding can happen anytime, anywhere. And damages are generally not included in your homeowners policy. But two devices can flood-proof your home: a backflow valve, and a sump pump. Both control floodwaters by redirecting them. A backflow valve directs overflow to an outside receptable – a sump pump directs overflow to a storm drain or […]

  • A fresh coat of paint can give new life to a home. Whether youre a seller aiming to impress potential homebuyers, or you just want to change things up, painting is an easy and effective way to revamp your homes look for relatively cheap. That said, a bad paint job that results in uneven edging, […]

  • There are many advantages of homeownership, but the burden of maintaining, repairing and replacing home appliances goes right along with it. The decision to repair or replace a broken or failing appliance is often made under pressure and without adequate knowledge about the nature of the appliance or its expected lifetime. Water HeatersUnless the water […]

  • These cutting-edge security features will ensure your property is prepared for anything! Biometric Keypad With biometric keypads, all of your doors can be set to automatically lock and simply require your fingerprint to open. Home Firewall Installing a firewall provides an extra layer of protection to any online vulnerabilities. Safe Room A fortified safe room […]

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  • Homes cost a lot of money to maintain. But are you spending extra money unnecessarily on upkeep? Here are seven of the most expensive mistakes you could be making in your home: 1. Using Traditional Light Bulbs.If you still have incandescent light bulbs in your home, you could be throwing a lot of money away […]

  • With these styles, youre guaranteed a kitchen thatll stand the test of time… Farmhouse Kitchen A rustic-inspired design, neutral colors combine with exposed wood beam ceilings and butcher-block countertops. Mediterranean Kitchen A kitchen that feels like you’re always on vacation. Dark wooden surfaces and ornate lighting create a romantic ambience. White Kitchen From coastal getaways […]

  • If you’re redesigning your living space, you know that your options are endless. From color schematics to feng shui, there are myriad ways to set up your home. Below are five pro design tips to keep in mind. Eye-level art. Do you want your walls to look like a gallery? Hangthings gallery-style, at around 57 […]

  • A job loss can be devastating, especially if it happens unexpectedly and you dont have a lot of money saved and cant find another job right away. Aside from the anxiety associated with being out of work and trying to find a new job, theres typically an added level of concern when it comes to […]

  • Home improvements are sometimes necessary to make a house safer, more comfortable or more functional, but they are often very expensive. Many homeowners struggle to save money for upgrades and consider tapping into their retirement savings to fund projects, especially for urgently needed repairs, such as a roof replacement. Dipping into money set aside for […]

  • With a variety of home surveillance kits available, many handy homeowners have chosen to install security cameras themselves. The installation process can be easy, but knowing the proper way to place and angle the cameras is vital to keeping your home as safe as it can be. The most important factor in judging where to […]

  • These key features will enhance your kitchen in more ways than one. Two Ovens Multiple ovens provide you with flexibility and functionality, especially when making a multi-course meal for large groups. Pot Filler A faucet mounted right above the stove lets you skip the heavy lifting and get right down to cooking. Professional-Grade Range Whether […]

  • Here are a few tips to better organize your living space. One Room at a Time Decluttering your entire home can be a daunting task, so its best to tackle one room at a time. Identify the Nonessentials Consider whats essential and whats not. If you can live without it, toss it, or better yet, […]

  • Many homeowners know the feeling of unease that accompanies finding mice or other rodents in their home. Whether in the kitchen, attic, basement or dining room, a rodent sighting can incite surprise and fear in even the most composed homeowner. Unfortunately, these common pests are resourceful creatures that can enter a building or home through […]

  • Here are a few creative ways to keep your outdoor area private. Vertical Garden To feel totally immersed in nature, a vertical garden, also known as a living wall, is the perfect solution. Pergola Often used to create shade, a pergola is also a particularly effective way to increase overhead privacy. Outdoor Curtains A fun […]

  • If youre planning to step up your barbecue game, a new grill can make all the difference and turn your backyard into the best place for family and friends to hang out under the sun. Here are five favorite grills to please everyone, from charcoal loyalists to high-tech grill masters. Kalamazoo Gaucho Wood-Fired Grill with […]

  • If you’re having trouble paying your mortgage, programs are available to help homeowners in situations like yours keep their houses or avoid foreclosure. Don’t wait to ask for help. Talk to Your Loan Servicer and a Housing CounselorIf you can’t pay your mortgage on time, contact your loan servicer. Explain the reason for the problem […]

  • There are some obvious things that can hurt a credit score: paying your bills late, using too much available credit in proportion to your income, and defaulting on a loan. Some other financial transactions, however, don’t affect a credit score. You may even be surprised by them. Here are five things that don’t affect a […]

  • Keep these safety tips in mind before putting your home on the market. Communicate With Your Agent Your agent should have a process in place to vet any potential buyers before bringing them into your home. Be Careful With Photography Removing family pictures from the space will help maintain your privacy. Secure Your Valuables Be […]

  • Bored with your basic kitchen? These inexpensive updates will liven things up in no time! Add style to standard wood cabinets with a quick coat of paint. Try painting the lower cabinets a dark color, like gray or navy, and the upper cabinets white. Open up a closed space by converting a cabinet to open […]

  • Germany leads the world in energy efficiency, followed by Italy, Japan, France and the United Kingdom, according to an international scorecard. The United States is tied for eighth with South Korea. What are other countries doing so much better than the U.S.? Can the big steps that Germany, for example, is taking to be more […]

  • Improving your home before you sell it can seem like wasting money. After all, if youre not going to live there much longer, why remodel or add features you wont get to use much? Because, as any real estate professional will tell you, the upgrades can help you recoup the cost and more in a […]

  • Just because bedrooms are not usually the first thing people see when walking into a home, it doesnt mean theyre not worthy of some love. There is no better investment than one which gives you peace of mind, and a well-equipped bedroom can give you even more than that. A good nights sleep can take […]

  • First-time homeowners are faced with many realities of being “an adult, and one of the things that comes with owning a new home is making sure you have proper insurance. But not all insurances are the same. Just because you have insurance on your home doesn’t mean you’re protected from everything that could happen. In […]

  • If a kitchen renovation is on your radar screen, and you plan to stay in your home long-term, you can figure on spending $20,000 or more ” especially if you plan to rip out counters and re-configure your space. But if youre thinking of upgrades that increase your homes resale value, as well as your […]

  • When selling a home, there are rules you must follow. If your house has mold, termites or there’s some old heating tank buried in the basement, and you know about it, you can’t pretend those problems don’t exist. Disclosure laws are in place, and require someone to disclose this important information before a sales contract […]

  • Water conservation isnt only good for the environment; its also good for your bank account. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), easy-to-fix leaks in homes across the country waste a total of almost 1 trillion gallons of water every year. Furthermore, because the average leaky home wastes about 10,000 gallons annually, leaks could […]

  • Here are four reasons you need an air purifier. Air Pollution Air purifiers can significantly reduce airborne pollutants that find their way into your living space and are unsafe to breathe in. Pets We love our furry friends, but their fur and dander can cause allergies and odor. Air purifiers remove these and keep the […]

  • Clearing out clutter is key to staging a home for sale, and it’s the best way to make a room look more organized and spacious. Bottles, cans and other items that pile up can make a cabinet or shelf look crowded. Getting rid of some of these items can be a small step toward a […]

  • One feature that many people look for when buying a home is a fireplace, but not everyone understands what exactly goes into getting a nice fire roaring. Knowing the terms can help. For instance, the fireplaces flue allows smoke to move through the chimney, and the damper is an opening you can adjust to control […]

  • If you’re a first-time homeowner, you likely have a list of renovations. Address these three areas in your first year: Your appliancesInsulation, andLandscaping Appliances with the Energy-Star rating can save you on your utilities. According to one study, one energy-efficient machine can save you $50 a year. Check your insulation. If you have an attic, […]

  • If you need money for home improvements, tuition or another purpose, you might be able to secure funds through a second mortgage. How Does a Second Mortgage Work? A second mortgage is a loan that allows a homeowner to borrow against the value of their house by using it as collateral. One option is to […]

  • Break-ins occur every day across the U.S., resulting in property damage, theft and, in some cases, injuries. The unfortunate reality is that anyone can become a victim; however, studies have found that criminals are much less likely to target homes with security systems. Reasons to Get a Home Security SystemInstalling a security system could give […]

  • Owing more money on your mortgage loan than your home is worth”commonly referred to as being underwater on a home mortgage”can seem hopeless. There were 6.7 million underwater homes in the U.S. at the end of the first quarter of 2016, representing 12 percent of all properties with a mortgage, according to RealtyTrac. The numbers […]

  • Follow these steps to give your living room a redefining makeover… Identify Focal Points Find the feature that immediately draws your eye and build around it. Mind the Windows Windows seriously impact the energy of a room. Use lighter curtains that allow natural light in while still providing privacy. Add Plants An indoor tree can […]

  • When the day is done, nothing is more relaxing than retiring to your bedroom. Unless, of course, your bedroom isn’t a calming space. Below are several tips for designing a sleeping space that brings calm and comfort. Cool colors. There is nothing calming about a blood red bedroom. Choose a cool hue like gentle blue, […]

  • Create the ideal outdoor kitchen by paying attention to these characteristics… Figure Out the Features The grill is the star, but a stove top, sink and refrigerator add tons of convenience. Seating Matters Consider two seating areas: one for casual hangouts and another for al fresco dinners. Put a Roof Over It Extend the roof […]

  • A home is the biggest single purchase most people will make. Matt Blashaw, a licensed contractor and host of the DIY network show, Money Hunters, offers six tips for planning and performing routine maintenance that can save dollars as well as future headaches: Save on tools ” Unless its a tool you will use often, […]

  • Published with permission from RISMedia.

  • Icons and superheroes go in and out of style, so decorating your kids rooms to reflect their current favorite may not be the best idea. Decorators suggest using timeless themes and practical ideas to make their spaces cheerful and organized: Start with color ” Choose a favorite, preferably a soothing one, to help your child […]

  • Here are a few helpful tips to ensure you have the perfect nursery for your newborn… Go With a Theme Having a theme will guide you through the design process and bring the whole room together. Stay Away From Toxic Chemicals This is important in any room in the house, but especially for newborns that […]

  • If youre looking to buy a new home and hope to stay there for the rest of your life, look ahead to what you might want in it as you age. Thinking of and paying for features that make a house more accessible now can be a lot easier than having to make modifications later. […]

  • Attic fans, also called full house fans, can be an effective and cost-efficient way to cool a home. They bring in cooler air from outside through vents and push the hot air outside. Doing this means less reliance on your air conditioner, particularly in late spring and early summer when nights are still relatively cool, […]

  • Here are a few ways to spruce up your bedroom with the latest gadgets… Automated Blackout Shades Sync your shades with your sleep schedule and keep the room dark until its time to get up. Dawn Simulation Enjoy a dawn simulation by setting your lights to slowly turn on in the morning and wake up […]

  • Odors are a huge turnoff for potential homebuyers and can be difficult to remove. The truth is that most homes have some sort of smell to them. Most often, the people who live there dont even notice. This is especially true of pet odors. Owners become accustomed to their pets smell, such as from litter […]

  • If you need money for home improvements, college tuition or another purpose, you might be able to secure funds with favorable terms through a second mortgage. Before you do so, it’s important to make sure you understand the terms and potential risks. How Does a Second Mortgage Work?A second mortgage is a loan that allows […]

  • If you’re thinking of becoming a homeowner, you’ve likely spent time budgeting for additional expenses – property taxes, lawn care, a big-screen TV to fill up that extra space…you get the idea. But have you factored in protection for your new home? While you’re crunching numbers, remember to include homeowners insurance. A standard policy will […]

  • Paying off your mortgage early and living mortgage-free so you can use the money for other things”such as travel and an early retirement”can sound like a pipe-dream thats impossible to get to, but it doesnt have to be. If you have a 30-year mortgage, there are a few ways to cut that time in half, […]

  • Here are some of todays trendiest types of high-end tiles! Travertine This strong but porous tile is a classic option for lavish floors inside the home or on the terrace. Marble Marble floors will add instant luxurious appeal to any room and can come in a variety of colors. Terrazzo A composite material that originated […]

  • The idea of a splurge means different things to different people, depending, in great measure, on how much “discretionary income” you have to spend. But while the things we choose to splurge on are a matter of choice, there are some luxury creature comforts that can make nearly everyone happier When it comes to your […]

  • Here are a few of the reasons why more and more luxury homes are being equipped with smart toilets. Super Sanitary Todays cutting-edge models boast a self-cleaning functionality, air-purifying systems and automatic flushing. Personalized Experience Some high-tech toilets boast adjustable heated seats, foot warmers, ambient colored lighting and even Bluetooth capability. Built-in Bidets High-tech toilets […]

  • Before you sign on the dotted line, take the following factors into consideration when purchasing homeowners insurance in order to make sure youre getting the best rate and proper coverage: Things to ask: How far away is the property from a fire department? Is it a professional or a volunteer-based establishment? Home insurance is bound […]

  • If you’re shopping for a home, you most likely want a house with a garage. During your search, you’ll come across houses with attached or detached garages. You’ll need to decide which is the right choice based on your familys needs and preferences. Pros and Cons of an Attached GarageThe most common reason why people […]

  • Buying a home is expensive enough. Filling it up with things you need adds to the cost, and spending more money to replace those things leads to more bills. Extending the lifespan of household items can save you a lot of money in the long run. Here are five tips for making some common household […]

  • Owning a historic home provides old-world charm, but it can also pose challenges. Historic homes often need more maintenance, and outdated technology, such as heating units, could mean higher bills. If decorative fixtures need repair or replacement, the materials may be costly or no longer available. Painting the exterior and other renovations could require approval […]

  • A backyard pool can look like a lot of fun when youre house-hunting. Summer days full of swimming and splashing around your pool can be great fun, but sooner or later youre going to have to face the costs that come with a pool. Here are some of the costs of pool ownership: MaintenanceBefore buying […]

  • Help protect your family with these home fire safety tips: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside bedrooms, and test alarms monthly. Cooking causes most house fires, so dont leave the kitchen with the stove on. Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves and radiators. Never […]

  • Title insurance can be one of those things that someone says you need when you buy a home, but you dont understand why. Without it, you could be left with a nagging question in the back of your mind: “Does the seller really own the property?” If the answer is no, it could be bad […]

  • Do you look around your living space at the end of the busy work week and think, “What happened?” Piles of mail, dirty laundry and dishes are lurking around every corner. Between work and family, it can be hard to carve out the time to clear clutter. Below are three tips to manage clutter daily. […]

  • Keep your cherished works of art in pristine condition with these tips. Create the Right Environment Remember that artwork is sensitive to factors like sunlight, temperature and humidity. Security Its important to take the proper precautions to protect pieces that are particularly valuable. Motion sensors can be installed that alert authorities if a piece is […]

  • Applying for a mortgage to buy the house of your dreams can be a daunting process. You have to submit an application, paystubs, tax returns and other documentation. In addition, the lender will base their decision and how much money to loan you partially on your credit score. Reasons to Check Your Credit Before you […]

  • Published with permission from RISMedia.

  • When it comes to home improvement, the options are endless. While many homeowners have their sights set on a huge overhaul (hello five-star kitchen complete with the latest and greatest appliances and gadgets), simple home updates that can be completed in a timely manner”without breaking the bank”typically offer the best return on your investment. If […]

  • If youre buying a house with cash only, you may have gotten a lower price for it and you certainly wont have to deal with a bank to get a mortgage loan. Another advantage is that you dont have to buy title insurance to protect your lender. Mortgage lenders usually require buyers to purchase a […]

  • Implement these improvements that can increase your homes value… Updated Kitchen Upgrading your appliances and replacing dated countertops can transform your cooking space. Outdoor Living Add a fire pit or barbecue area to your patio where people can envision themselves hanging out. Eco-Friendly Features Energy-efficient windows and appliances have major appeal to those looking to […]

  • If you own a house, homeowners insurance is a necessity. A storm might damage your home, your belongings might be stolen, or someone might be injured. Without homeowners insurance, you would be responsible for paying those bills, which could easily total thousands of dollars. Homeowners insurance can protect you in many instances, but not always. […]

  • Becoming a homeowner doesn’t equip you with the basics of household know-how, although time and experience will likely teach you how to tighten up a leaky faucet. But technicians say that up to 30 percent of their service calls require nothing more than the flip of a switch or the push of a button to […]

  • No matter the size of your home, odds are you could still spend all day cleaning. Even though life tends to get in the way of secondary chores, identifying your homes major bound-to-be-disorganized areas can help ease the clutter tension in your home and save you cleaning time. Kitchen: With so many pots and pans […]

  • Does your home look like a storage locker or a pack rat’s dream? If so, it’s time to purge, declutter, and refresh. As your local real estate professional, I want to share with you this insightful infographic on how to efficiently and easily declutter your home. All without feeling overwhelmed, of course. Published with permission […]

  • Eco-friendly features are all the rage today as homeowners commit to living greener lives. But for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, where do you begin? For many, the answer is the kitchen. The central hub of the home, the kitchen offers a perfect foundation for incorporating green features and appliances. Getting started, you […]

  • Here are the most lavish amenities in apartment buildings today. Wellness Center Well-being is a top priority among high-end homebuyers and the latest buildings deliver the highest of standards in this regard. Bars and Restaurants Theres nothing like having an excellent restaurant (or two) right in your building. Activity Spaces From full-sized movie theaters to […]

  • Even if you cant afford a home security system, you can protect your home and family with some quick, easy fixes that provide peace of mind without dipping deep into your pockets. Try these tips from HGTV, the home and garden channel: Change the locks ” If you havent changed the locks since you moved […]

  • Published with permission from RISMedia.

  • The following characteristics will help you design a swoon-worthy farmhouse kitchen. Stone and Wood Natural materials, especially stone and wood, are always at the center of the farmhouse style. Open Shelving Both fashionable and functional, hang pans from a ceiling rack and use a magnetic strip to keep your knives handy. Copper Accents Wherever its […]

  • Buying a condominium can be a smart start to being a homebuyer, without many of the maintenance hassles of owning a detached home. Insurance through the homeowner association, or HOA, covers some areas of the complex, though each homeowner must have their own insurance to cover certain parts of their property and their belongings. Heres […]

  • Here are some tips for getting the highest ROI. Go Beyond Cosmetic Repairs Most homebuyers know to look beyond cosmetic damage. More importantly, theyll want to know that the major systems are in good working condition. Rethink Luxury Fixes If youre updating your kitchen or bathroom before listing your home, make sure you’re not going […]

  • A rule of thumb when determining how much money to set aside for ongoing home maintenance is to budget 1% of the homes purchase price each year. If your home cost $300,000, then setting aside $3,000 per year is a good start. You may not spend that much every year on home maintenance, but it […]