Cheap Home Improvements That Add Value to Your Home

If you’re planning to sell your house in the near future, sprucing it up can add value and help your property stand out from others on the market. But deciding which upgrades are worth your sweat equity is tricky, and can depend on several factors, including what other homeowners have done, your local market and the style of your neighborhood.

If your home has wood floors, sanding and refinishing is one of the best ways to refresh them. Buyers will pay a premium for hardwoods, and the cost of refinishing is much less than installing new flooring.

Replacing windows is a cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency, especially if you live in a colder climate. Plus, new Energy Star-rated windows can qualify you for a tax credit.

While a complete kitchen remodel can add the most to your resale price, it’s not always feasible. A more budget-friendly alternative is to paint your cabinets, re-grout tile or install new fixtures. These small fixes can have a big impact, and are easy for a buyer to maintain.

The bathroom is another popular area where you can recoup your investment by making simple improvements. Swapping out dated fixtures and adding mirrors can instantly brighten up the space. And if your tub is outdated, you can save money by re-caulking or re-glazing it instead of replacing it entirely.

Replacing a bathroom sink faucet, shower head and towel bars can also give your bathroom a face-lift for under $200. Decorative accents like new toilet paper holders and doorknobs are inexpensive and add visual appeal, but keep the look consistent throughout the entire house for the best results.

Adding trim around doors and windows is an inexpensive and effective way to make your home feel more finished, and it’s easy to do yourself with off-the-rack moldings from your local home improvement center. You can even DIY crown molding for a deluxe, custom look.

A fresh coat of paint will remove dirt, marks and stains, and can transform the look of a room. If your walls need more than a single coat, consider hiring a professional to minimize the amount of time and expense spent on the project.

Many home improvements can be expensive, but not all will add value. It’s important to prioritize those projects that will earn you the highest return on your investment when you sell. Avoid completing projects that are too personalized or that go beyond the style of the surrounding homes, as they may be off-putting to potential buyers.

A fresh coat of paint, re-grouting tile and power washing your exterior are all cheap and simple updates that can boost your home’s curb appeal, increase its value and make it easier to sell. With a little sweat equity and some DIY skills, you can upgrade your home without going into debt or ransacking your savings. If you’re ready to sell your house, contact a real estate agent for more information about home improvements that can help it reach its maximum resale value.

Pamela Denise Anderson, 70, Feels She’s Not Being Treated Fairly in the Media

Pamela Denise Anderson is a Canadian actress who rose to fame in the 1990s with her leading role on the popular TV series Baywatch. She has starred in numerous other projects since, including the hit TV show “VIP” and the Fox sitcom “Stacked.” The actress also made her mark in fashion and home improvement as well, with her designs influencing trends throughout the years.

Pamela Anderson, who turns 70 on Friday, is one of the most recognizable faces in pop culture. From her sex tape scandal with ex Tommy Lee to her new memoir and Netflix documentary, the star is no stranger to tabloid headlines. Yet, she feels she hasn’t been treated fairly by the media.

The Vancouver Island native is a longtime advocate for women’s rights and animal welfare issues, with her work spanning a broad spectrum of genres and platforms. She is particularly active in the vegan community, with her own line of plant-based skincare products and cookbooks. She has also shared her philosophies on life through multiple TV and film roles, including her recent turn as the titular character in the Hulu series Pam & Tommy, starring Lily James and Sebastian Stan.

Anderson has taken on various roles in recent years, ranging from hosting a reality competition to guest starring on shows like “Home Improvement.” In addition, she co-hosts the HGTV builder-themed show Assembly Required with Richard Karn. The show follows a team of designers who work with celebrities to renovate their homes.

In an excerpt of her new tell-all memoir published on Sunday, Anderson alleges that former co-star Tim Allen exposed himself to her while working on Home Improvement in 1991. She was 23 and Allen was 37 at the time. Allen denied the allegations.

Following the conclusion of the second season of her HGTV show, Pamela Anderson and her design team are back to tackle more projects at her home. This time around, the show centers on transforming the kitchen into the perfect space to entertain family and friends.

The kitchen includes a wine bar, a large dining table that seats eight people, and a new pantry with plenty of storage. The team is also tasked with installing a new dishwasher and upgrading the master bath.

As a woman who is very active in her vegan lifestyle, Pamela Anderson wanted to incorporate eco-friendly features into the renovation project. The team used reclaimed wood to replace some of the cabinetry and installed a water-saving toilet and LED lights throughout the home. The result is a bright, clean, and inviting space that the whole family can enjoy.

As an avid gardener, Pamela also incorporated greenery and flowers into the design. She enlisted the help of her daughter to select the plants for the landscaping, and they even reclaimed some of the original paving stones from the property when creating her front garden. The final design is truly a work of art and showcases how Pamela brings her personal touch to every project she takes on.

Home Renovation DIY: Considerations For Homeowners

Tackling a home renovation can be daunting for homeowners. It is often a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor and, as such, most homeowners will not have any idea of all the details involved until they start the project. While hiring a professional contractor is an option, it can also be costly and time-consuming.

A homeowner must weigh the pros and cons of both options and decide what works best for their budget, skill level, and personal style. Home improvement projects can range from the small—such as painting an accent wall or re-purposing wood furniture—to the large—such as adding a new bathroom, kitchen, or garage.

Some home renovations are less cosmetic and more functional, such as replacing old electrical or plumbing systems. In these cases, it is important for homeowners to do their research and find a contractor they can trust.

One of the biggest considerations is how much a renovation will cost and when it should be completed. Homeowners should work out their budget and timeline before beginning a project and be prepared for unexpected curveballs. If a homeowner is working with a professional contractor, they should have a contract in place that clearly states the scope of the project, payment terms, estimated dates from start to finish, and any warranty information.

If a homeowner is taking on a home renovation diy, they should have a clear plan and a list of the necessary supplies needed to complete the project. They may also need to consider the possibility of additional costs for items they didn’t anticipate, such as additional paint or tools. In addition, it is important for homeowners to make sure they have the necessary space in their home and yard to store and work on the project.

Another aspect to consider is the potential impact a home renovation will have on resale value. Well-executed renovations can increase a property’s value, while poor quality work will detract from it. Homeowners should always consult with a real estate expert to determine how much value a specific home renovation will add before making any decisions.

It is also a good idea for homeowners to ask for help when working on home renovations. This could be as simple as asking a family member to help carry heavy items or enlisting the help of a friend who is handy. It is also a great opportunity for homeowners to get their children involved in the process and teach them valuable life lessons. Having friends and family on call to help with a project can also help reduce costs, as many contractors will charge extra for overtime. Finally, if a home renovation is going to be lengthy, homeowners should make plans for their pets and children to stay with a friend or neighbor while the work is being done. This will help prevent the need for kenneling or babysitting fees.

Home Improvement Box Set Review

Home Improvement was one of the better sitcoms in the 90’s and, unlike other long running shows (such as Seinfeld) it never jumped the shark. It remained consistently funny through 8 seasons and this set contains every episode of the show. The DVD transfer is pretty good too. While it’s not razor sharp, there is minimal ghosting and the picture looks as if it was shot for TV in the first place. The Dolby Digital English 2.0 stereo mix sounds pretty good too, with clear dialogue and limited spatial effects.

The extras are a bit sparse but there are some worthwhile items here. There’s a 6-minute blooper reel (it wouldn’t be Home Improvement without them) and a behind-the-scenes look at the final taping of an episode. There’s also a short documentary on the show’s creator, Tim Allen. And the set is rounded out by a series finale and a 2-hour Christmas special.

As far as the episodes are concerned, they are presented in the original aspect ratio they were filmed and aired in (fullscreen). They’re not the best looking shows ever – there is some occasional moire and the resolution is a little less than razor sharp, but that’s to be expected from a show that was filmed on video in the first place. However, it’s a good transfer and certainly better than what we’ve seen on previous sets of the series.

In terms of extras, the highlight is the full-length reunion special that was taped in 2003 (with the exception of a brief clip from one of the original seasons). Tim Allen, Richard Karn, and Debbe Dunning are all present for the hour-long program which includes clips from the series’ run, personal reflections, and questions from the audience. The only thing missing is a guest appearance by the late Earl Hindman, who died shortly after this reunion was recorded.

Home Improvement was a good, well-written sitcom that remained entertaining throughout its eight-season run. It’s unfortunate that it wasn’t able to find a better home than the DVD format, but as it is this is still a fine box set worth picking up for anyone who enjoyed the show. The only downside is the lack of a commentaries or other bonus features on the discs. Hopefully, future releases of the other season sets will include more bonus material. And for those who haven’t picked up the Home Improvement box set, do so as soon as possible – you won’t regret it. 9.5 out of 10.

Home Improvement Contractors Near Me

A home improvement contractor can help homeowners build, add to or repair their homes. Some common services include drywall installation, bathtub membrane recoating, cabinet refacing and flooring replacement. Choosing the right contractor is essential to ensure that the work is done correctly and within budget. A good contractor should be able to provide detailed estimates, including labor and material costs. A contractor should also be able to offer financing options and help homeowners find the best rates.

It is recommended that homeowners search online for reviews and ratings of local contractors. They can also ask family members, friends and neighbors for referrals. Homeowners may also wish to consult their local building department to determine whether any specific credentials are required for home improvement contractors in their area. Some counties in the Capital Region require home improvement contractors to be licensed, but not all. For example, a homeowner who wants to have a spray foam insulation installed should find a certified contractor with the proper training and equipment.

Homeowners should always request a written contract before starting any home improvement project. This will help protect them from misunderstandings, disagreements or price increases and will also clearly state the scope of the work to be performed. The contract should also include a detailed breakdown of the costs, including any materials and labor required to complete the work as well as a start and completion date.

In addition to a written contract, homeowners should always check the contractor’s licensing status. They can do this by visiting the state or local licensing board website or calling their local building department. If a license is missing, the homeowner should contact the appropriate authority to see why the contractor was not issued one.

If a home improvement contractor is unlicensed or has outstanding complaints, the homeowner should avoid hiring them. They should also avoid hiring contractors who are not registered with the state, as this could lead to a lawsuit.

Before starting any remodeling project, the homeowner should create a wish list and establish a budget. Then, they should shop around for referrals and search web resources like Angi, Homeadvisor, Yelp and Google. A good general contractor can save the homeowner time, money and stress by providing peace of mind, expertise and efficient project management. They can also offer competitive pricing due to their industry connections and help identify potential issues early, preventing costly mistakes.

If a home improvement contractor does not follow the requirements of the law, they can be fined or even have their license suspended or revoked. In addition, the consumer can file a private suit in court and receive up to $10,000 of their actual losses. However, the homeowner should try to resolve the issue with the contractor before taking legal action. If the contractor does not agree to a reasonable settlement, the consumer may apply to the Home Improvement Contractor Guaranty Fund for up to $10,000 of their actual losses.

Pros and Cons of Do-It-Yourself Home Remodeling

Fueled by YouTube videos and the promise of cost savings, it can feel tempting to do your own home remodel. But is it really worth the risk? This article lays out some pros and cons of diy home remodel so you can decide for yourself.

Do-It-Yourself projects can be fun and educational, and there’s nothing like the satisfaction of seeing your work come to life in front of you. But there are also hidden costs to consider. For example, if you’re working on something electrical or plumbing-related, you may need to get a permit and hire a licensed professional to ensure the project is safe. These costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re not careful.

You can save money by choosing materials that are more readily available to the general public, rather than those custom-designed for your specific renovation. For instance, using plywood that comes in 10-foot sheets can save you time and money compared to building something from scratch, says This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey. You can also save by purchasing stock windows and doors that are cheaper than custom options, but still offer the functionality you need.

Another way that a DIY home remodel can turn into a money pit is when you underestimate the scope of work or the amount of time the project will take. If you’re planning a weekend project to spruce up the living room, for example, it might end up taking the whole week or dipping into your vacation time. Similarly, an overestimation of your own skills or the tools you have on hand can lead to overspending on your budget and potentially damaging your property.

If you’re tackling a structural change, make sure to consult an architect or engineer early in your planning process to help guide you through current trends, upgrades, and structural needs. This step can prevent costly changes mid-project or unexpected problems down the road, and it can also save you a lot of time and hassle by helping you avoid expensive mistakes.

Depending on the extent of your renovation, you might also need to upgrade your home’s systems. For example, rewiring an entire house can cost $4,000-$20,000, and replacing your old water heater might be in the $8,000-$15,000 range.

One of the most common reasons for homeowners to renovate is to increase resale value, and updating your kitchen or bathroom are the best ways to do that. But you should check with your local government to see if there are any requirements for these types of projects, like permits or inspections.

DIY home remodeling can be a great way to learn new skills, and there are plenty of resources online that can teach you everything from how to frame a wall to installing a backsplash. However, if you’re short on time and would have to sacrifice other responsibilities in order to tackle the project, it might be more cost-effective to hire a pro.

Getting the Most Out of House Upgrades

Homeowners have a lot of options when it comes to upgrading their homes. Some upgrades will add value and others will simply improve the quality of their own lives. The most valuable upgrades typically focus on areas that potential buyers will notice. For example, a new entry door and landscaping are often high on the list of upgrades that will increase home value. Other important upgrades are those that will make the home more energy efficient. This will reduce utility costs and help the environment.

Many homeowners want to sell their homes at some point in the future, but they may not be able to do so immediately for financial or personal reasons. Home improvements that are targeted at increasing resale value can make the property more appealing to buyers when the time is right to sell.

In order to get the most out of your house upgrades you need to choose projects that will have a good return on investment. It’s also important to keep in mind that trends play an important role in resale value. For example, smart home features and energy-efficient appliances are often highly sought after by homebuyers.

It’s also wise to stay away from projects that are purely for aesthetic purposes. Installing a water feature and koi pond in the backyard, for example, is unlikely to appeal to buyers who are looking for an easy maintenance-free lifestyle. Similarly, an extravagant kitchen redesign will probably not appeal to buyers who are looking for a more simple and functional layout.

Adding an extra bedroom or bathroom is another great way to increase the value of your home. Many homeowners are looking for larger living space as the economy continues to recover from recession and people struggle to find affordable apartments and condos. An extra room will be attractive to potential buyers who will be able to use it for their own family or as a rental.

The exterior of a house is the first thing that potential buyers will see and it’s important to keep it in good shape. Chipped paint and a broken garage door will raise red flags and turn off buyers. Upgrading the exterior can protect the home from severe weather and improve the curb appeal.

Some major renovations can be expensive, and many homeowners are worried that they won’t recoup their investment when they go to sell. If you’re concerned about making a costly mistake, you should consult with a professional to learn which projects will provide the best return on investment and how to maximize your resale value. A local real estate agent can be a valuable resource to help you decide what projects are worth the money. They can recommend contractors and advise you on what projects are most likely to sell well in your area. They can also advise you on local home buying trends to help you determine what kinds of upgrades would be most popular with prospective homebuyers.

How to Find Reputable Home Repair Contractors

Home repair involves diagnosing and resolving issues that occur in the structure and function of a house, such as leaky faucets, flickering lights or scuffed floor boards. Some home repairs may be able to be done by the homeowner, while others are more complex, time-consuming or risky and require the expertise of a professional handyperson, property manager, general contractor or building/construction company. Periodic maintenance also falls under the category of home repair and involves inspections, adjustments, cleaning or replacements that should be made at regular intervals to ensure proper functioning or to prevent costly emergencies.

The best way to find a qualified, trustworthy home improvement contractor is to ask for recommendations from friends and neighbors who have used their services in the past. A quality contractor should have sufficient experience in the field, a proven track record and all the necessary permits and licenses to do the work. Inquire about the contract specifications and ask for references from previous clients.

It is a good idea to get estimates from several contractors before making a final decision. Ask the contractor to provide you with an itemized list of all costs involved in the project, including labor and materials. A reputable contractor will be honest about the potential cost and explain ways that you can save money by doing some of the work yourself or by using less expensive materials.

Most states have laws regulating the home repair business. Some require contractors to carry liability insurance, while others have specific requirements for licensing and requiring consumers to sign written contracts. In addition to state regulations, local communities may have ordinances regulating home repair contractors and businesses.

In New York City, for example, the law states that “home improvement contractors” include anyone who owns, operates or conducts a home improvement business and who makes offers to perform work on homes or apartments for a fee, whether in exchange for payment in advance of performance or a percentage of the total cost of the project.

Be wary of anyone who solicits your business by going door to door. While some legitimate contractors do this, scammers often use it as a ruse to con you out of your money. If a contractor requests a deposit, check with your local consumer protection agency to see if they are required to put the funds in an escrow account or post a bond or trust fund that gives restitution to homeowners who have been defrauded.

It is also a good idea to check with your local government’s consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau for complaints about contractors. Never hire contractors who have not obtained a license to do the work and whose license number you can’t verify online or through the BBB website. Some states require that licensed contractors pass a background and criminal history check, meet education and training requirements and pay a licensing fee to be allowed to do home improvement or repair work.

Home Addition Companies Near Me

Home additions are fantastic ways to increase indoor space for your family, and if done well, they’re a cost-effective investment that will drastically boost the value of your home. However, despite their benefits, home extensions are not something that you should attempt to tackle on your own; unless you have the proper expertise, building a house extension is too complex and dangerous a project to take on without a professional.

While there are many factors that affect the price of a home addition, some are more obvious than others. Building materials, the current layout of your property and zoning requirements all play a role in home addition prices. But, it’s important to remember that labor costs also play a major part. This is because the majority of a home addition budget is made up of contractor fees.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get a sense of how much your home addition will cost, there are many online calculators that can provide a rough estimate. Nevertheless, these calculators should be used as just a guideline because they don’t account for all the different expenses involved in the project.

In order to receive a more accurate home addition price estimate, you’ll need to speak with a professional builder. These overarching professionals will be able to paint the bigger picture and create a realistic budget with your specific design in mind. Additionally, they’ll be able to tell you if your design requires specialized fixtures or finishes that could push the price tag up.

Some home additions are more costly than others, but there are always things you can do to reduce the overall cost. For instance, building up rather than out is a lot cheaper, as you won’t need to lay a foundation. Additionally, you can save money by using less-expensive construction materials and by incorporating energy-efficient appliances into your home addition.

One of the best ways to save money on your home addition is by converting an existing room into a new space. For example, adding a dormer on the roof or building out into the back porch are common examples of this strategy.

Home additions are a great way to make the most of your existing space, and there are endless possibilities for how they can be used. But, if you’re looking for a higher ROI value, it’s best to avoid big-ticket reconstruction projects like kitchen and bathroom renovations.

Choosing Home Remodel Contractors

When you’re ready to start your home remodel, it’s important to find a contractor who is qualified to do the job. However, it’s equally important to find someone who meshes well with you. That’s why it’s worth spending time searching for a contractor with a process and personality that fit you. After all, you’ll be working with them for an extended period of time and will need to communicate frequently throughout the project.

When choosing a contractor, ask for examples of previous work they have done and look at photos of those projects. You should also ask what types of remodeling projects they specialize in and any relevant information, such as whether they’ve worked on kitchens or finished basements. This will give you an idea of the contractor’s experience in this particular type of project and how they approach it.

In addition to asking for references, you should also check a contractor’s licensing page online and review their certifications. Then, cross any contractors off your list that don’t have the correct credentials. It’s important to select a licensed contractor with the proper credentials for your project, including insurance, so you can be confident that they will complete the work safely and correctly.

Another factor to consider when choosing a contractor is how they’ll handle unexpected challenges during your project. You’ll want a contractor who is flexible and willing to find creative solutions when challenges arise. This can help keep your project on track and avoid budgetary overruns.

You’ll also want to choose a contractor who can answer any questions or concerns you have throughout the project. They should be able to explain their remodeling process clearly and respond to any questions promptly. They should also provide a clear contract that includes the project scope, timeline, payment schedule, and warranties.

Lastly, you should choose a contractor who will request and collect lien waivers for all tradespeople on the project. A lien waiver protects you as the homeowner by ensuring that all subcontractors and material suppliers who worked on your project have been paid. If a contractor fails to obtain lien waivers, it can leave you vulnerable to claims from unpaid contractors and other vendors.

In order to make the best decision, you’ll need to have a thorough consultation with each contractor on your list. You should be able to tell from the first few meetings if they are a good fit for your project.

During the consultation, you should ask each contractor to submit a bid for your project. Compare the bids to find the best value for your money. However, remember that the lowest bid doesn’t always mean you’ll end up with the best results. Be sure to weigh other factors, such as reliability, flexibility and their portfolio.