Winter is coming, and for many of us, that means snow, ice, and freezing rain are just up the road where they’re sure to make driving more stressful and prevent you from enjoying the great outdoors. The snowy landscapes of places like the Twin Cities or Oregon can be beautiful. But, sometimes, they are best enjoyed from a cozy vantage … Read More
Essential Home Safety Tips for the Holiday Season
The smell of freshly baked cookies and the sight of twinkling lights throughout your neighborhood can only mean one thing – the holiday season is here. Decorating your home, opening stockings by the fire, lighting the menorah, or toasting to the New Year with friends and family are festivities many people look forward to every year. While there is plenty … Read More
4 Health Hazards in Your Home and How to Protect Yourself
Your home should be a safe and healthy refuge for the entire family. While you may be diligent about minimizing your exposure to household chemicals, there may be other toxins causing health threats throughout your home. To protect yourself and your loved ones, beware of the following home health hazards: 1. Radon What is radon? Radon is a naturally occurring, … Read More
17 Tips to Create the Ultimate Sleep Environment and Improve Your Quality of Sleep
Picture this: Despite your jam-packed schedule, you’ve still reserved enough time to unwind and relax before bed. Your bedroom is cool, calm, and dark, and you’re able to fall asleep and stay asleep without any trouble. The next morning, you manage to wake up before your alarm and feel well-rested, perhaps even energetic, and ready to take on the world. … Read More
How to Set Up Your Home to be a Rental Property
Renting out your house instead of listing it on the real estate market is a common, and even profitable, way to hold on to your property when you aren’t currently living in it as a primary residence. Some homeowners choose this direction when they want to wait to sell when their second home’s value increases or the market turns in … Read More
7 Ways to Transform Your Attic Into a Livable Space
If you’re looking for additional living space within your home, don’t forget about your attic. Transforming your attic into a bedroom or other functional space isn’t as difficult as you may think — even if it’s unfinished. Here are a few tips to help you turn your attic into an upstairs oasis. 1. Add Flooring If your attic isn’t finished, … Read More
Basement Heating Options to Keep You Warm This Winter
The leaves are changing, the nights are getting longer, and that means that winter is on its way. If you’ve chosen to turn your home’s basement into a separate living space – whether it’s a game room, movie lounge, or man cave – you’ve probably discovered the challenges of keeping the room warm. From overly dry air to cold spots … Read More
16 Essential Tools for Any DIY Home Project
Every homeowner needs a well-stocked toolbox. Whether you live in a modern apartment in downtown Philadelphia, a historic home in Boston , or you’re looking to put your house on the market , you will inevitably need to make home repairs – and you’ll need the tools to do it. It’s also always helpful to have what you need to … Read More
How to Reduce Traffic Noise in Your Backyard
Excessive noise levels are unpleasant, to say the least, especially in your backyard. Your outside space should be a peaceful oasis where you and your family can unwind and enjoy the outdoors. However, whether it’s traffic noise, construction, lawn mowers, or neighborhood kids playing in the street, bothersome sounds can find their way into your home. As well as being … Read More
When Do I Need a Building Permit for Home Improvements?
When it’s time to remodel or make improvements to your home, you may wonder when you need a building permit. How do you determine which remodels and renovations require permits? Most contractors will know ahead of time, but it’s good for homeowners to have a general understanding for future renovations. Why Do I Need a Building Permit? For many projects, … Read More