Homeowner's Toolkit Archive


Is there such a thing as “over improving”?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Yes. The last thing you want to do when undertaking a home improvement is go overboard. This means fixing up the home to the point where it becomes worth far more than nearby neighborhood properties. ...
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What kind of return can I expect from home improvements?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Some improvements offer a greater return than others do. This will vary greatly depending on the type of work you have done. Remodeling magazine publishes an annual "Cost vs. Value Report'' that can answer this question in more detail, based on the top 15 home improvements. A recent study it ...
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Are there ways to save money when adding new space to my home?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
The direction in which you build can make all the difference. Experts say building up is normally less expensive than building out on the ground level. Adding an expensive wing or addition requires a new foundation. It is less costly to extend plumbing and other mechanical systems upward, as opposed ...
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When should I tackle the job myself or call in the pros?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
A lot will depend on your time, level of expertise or willingness to handle the job, amount of help from friends or relatives, and how much you want, or need, to save by doing the job yourself. You could save up to 20 percent of the project cost through your ...
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What should I consider once I decide to add on?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
If you must construct new space, ask yourself the following questions: ...
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What should I weigh before considering an addition to my home?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Thoroughly assess your space. You may find you have the room you need, particularly if there is unused or under utilized areas in your home. Perhaps a garage, attic, side porch, or basement can be converted to fit the use you have in mind. Or, maybe, a small area can ...
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What are the main reasons why homeowners remodel?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
There are many reasons. Home remodeling can improve the appearance of your home, enhance its value, add to your quality of life, and appeal to future homebuyers. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders, the top four reasons homeowners remodel is to obtain more space, ...
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How much, on average, can I expect to spend on maintenance?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Expect to spend one percent of the purchase price of your home every year to handle a myriad of tasks, including painting, tree trimming, repairing gutters, caulking windows, and routine system repairs and maintenance. ...
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What about the unseen problems like toxic gases?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
Problems with your chimney, mechanical devices on your heating appliance, and pressure within the home can all cause combustion spillage, the unwanted flow of combustion gases into your home. Present in these gases are toxic elements such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. ...
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Is there anything I should pay special attention to regarding home maintenance?

Monday, December 10th, 2007
From the very beginning, get in the habit of taking an inventory at least once every year of every nook and cranny of your home to check for potential problems. Examine the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical wiring - basically everything. Try to fix trouble spots as soon as you uncover ...
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