Bathroom fix-ups remain a top home improvement project for many home buyers. In fact, statistics from the National Association of REALTORS® indicate that almost half of all home buyers take on some sort of bathroom remodel after moving in. It’s a smart investment, too. The cost today for adding a new, full bathroom averages around $15,000. According to House Hunt, a real estate listings site, adding a bathroom increases home value by more than $18,000. But what if you don’t have $15,000 to spend o... read more

We’re just about the halfway through 2013, a good point to check in to see what paint prognosticators are saying about home color trends. It’s especially timely, as many aficionados are proclaiming vibrant brights and beachy hues – the colors of summer – as the new in. Think fuschia, coral, lime and violet on one hand; blue sky, turquoise waters, sand, sun and seashells on the other. HGTV captures the trend well with this photo gallery. It’s not surprising given the findings of Sherw... read more

We’ve all heard those horror stories about buying or selling a home: buying too high, selling too low, buying a house full of issues, financing that never materializes.  Buying or selling a home can be stressful enough without any of those surprises. Just following these four simple tips can help you avoid about 90 percent of the most common problems. Use an agent. For most, buying or selling a home is the biggest financial transaction they’ll ever make. It just makes sense to have an... read more

For many of us, home loan rates are the lowest we’ve ever seen, making now a great time to buy a first home, upgrade to a larger home or even downsize to something easier to maintain. If you’re looking to take advantage of those low rates, however, you’re more likely to qualify by following these tips. 1. Protect your credit score. Whether you’re paying on credit cards, utilities, a car loan or even a current mortgage, make all your payments on time to keep your credit score as high as pos... read more

Backyard sheds have long served as a basic receptacle for all your outdoor tools: serving as storage space for everything from lawnmowers and snow blowers to garden hoses, rakes and fishing gear. But with a little creative thinking, your shed could become an extension of your home. In fact, many people are finding outdoor sheds can be a great alternative to expensive home additions. Sometimes a man cave can be just what you need. Many sheds come equipped with lights and outlets, so all you need is a comfy rec... read more