Have some work that needs to be done around the house?  Are you looking to save a few bucks and do it yourself?  Even if you are the DIY type, here are a few things to take into consideration before you jump in. What’s Your Knowledge Level? “I’m just going to wing it.” “I think I know how to do this.” “I’m sure I’ll figure it out.” If this sounds like you, it is probably best to leave the project to the experts.  For instance, if you need a roof repair, you may not know the indicators of a loose shingle, which…

If you’re thinking about selling your house within the next couple years, it helps to know what features homebuyers are looking for. While some things you can’t change, like the location, there are a number of ways you can improve your house prior to selling. First, a quick note: be sure to calculate how much you think you’ll be able to get back on your upgrades. It helps to talk to a realtor to get an idea of how certain improvements will affect pricing and showing. Update Your Kitchen A modern and updated kitchen is at the top of the list…

Embarking on home improvement and renovation projects can be exciting-and intimidating. To get inspired, you might spend weeks poring over home magazines, making the rounds to home improvement stores and searching the Internet. Or you might spend a day going to a home show. With hundreds of home and garden shows across the U.S., there’s sure to be one near you. If you’re planning a home improvement project, home shows are an ideal place to get ideas, browse through products and visit vendors. How Can You Make the Most of Attending a Home Show? The first step is picking a…

You can easily save money using things you probably already have in your home. For example: baking soda. Baking soda is a common ingredient in baked goods, and most people also keep an open box in the refrigerator as a deodorant. But you may not know these other ways you can use it: 1. Polish silver – By mixing baking soda with a little water, you have a solution that can remove tarnish from silver. It may take some elbow grease and repetitions though. 2. Fill a hole in the wall – If you mix baking soda with a little…

Now that it’s October, it’s time to start preparing for chillier weather!  Instead of letting the cooler air invade your wallet, cut down on costs with a few simple changes. Protect Your Windows Your windows are a leading cause of heat loss during the colder months.  In order to keep the heat in and the cold out, cover windows with a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet.  You can also tape a clear plastic film around the inside of your windows, making sure that the plastic is sealed tightly. Get Comfortable with the Thermostat Learning how to manage your thermostat is very…