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If you’re a first-time homeowner, the odds are good you will soon be ready for the fun and responsibility of owning your first dog.If you’re looking for a pet that suits you and your lifestyle, the pooch experts at Petbreeds.com suggest breeds that are low maintenance, shed minimally, are easily trainable, and get along well with kids and other dogs:Labrador retriever. There’s a reason these dogs are among the most popular breeds in the country. Known to be loyal, intelligent, obedient, an...
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With these styles, youre guaranteed a kitchen thatll stand the test of time…Farmhouse KitchenA rustic-inspired design, neutral colors combine with exposed wood beam ceilings and butcher-block countertops.Mediterranean KitchenA kitchen that feels like you’re always on vacation. Dark wooden surfaces and ornate lighting create a romantic ambience.White KitchenFrom coastal getaways to urban abodes, theyre coveted for being light and breezy. Marble countertops and stainless-steel accents are popu...
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Fixing a few of your homes most likely trouble spots can improve energy efficiency and save you a bundle on utility bills. Consumer editors at ThisOldHouse.com provide a starting point for your DIY energy audit:Drafty WindowsOn a windy day, close all windows and exterior doors, as well as the chimney flue damper. Light a stick of incense, move it around the perimeter of each window and watch for air that stirs the rise of smoke. If you find a culprit, scrape out any cracked or dried caulk on the...
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One of the most popular rooms in any household is the family room, and we spend much of our time there watching television. And things are vastly different from a generation ago when Mom, Dad and the kiddies got together and watched a few sitcoms or a movie on DVD.There are endless choices to make these days when it comes to show and movie platforms. Moving into a new home provides the perfect opportunity to look into these options and make a choice that offers the kind of shows your family want...
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Here are the basics of what you need to know when using wood in the bathroom.Choose the Right TypeTeak, ipe and cedar wood make great candidates, as they are naturally resistant to rot and moisture.Ventilation Is KeyAn exhaust fan will help to remove the steam and allow the wood to dry quickly after each use so that it doesnt get damaged over time.Keep It Safe With a SealantJust as you would apply a sealant to your wooden deck, its wise to do so in the bathroom to protect the wood from moisture....
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Figures from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) show that about 70 million people"more than a quarter of adults in the United States"either have a debt in collection or have been contacted about one.Some of those people are wrongly contacted by debt collectors. Reasons include contacting the wrong person for the wrong amount, or for debt that cant legally be enforced, according to the CFPB.Some calls are from debt collectors who arent legitimate and dont represent an origi...
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Hiring a mover to safely transport your belongings to your new home is not a decision that should be taken lightly. As your local real estate professional, I want to advise you on some red flags to keep in mind. This infographic offers an easy-to-follow breakdown of these warning signs.Published with permission from RISMedia.
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When you were a kid, adults probably told you to drink lots of milk in order to grow up big and strong. Granted, it might not make you Superman or Wonder Woman, but the calcium found in milk and other products does help make your body stronger, specifically your bones.No matter how old a person is, everyone needs calcium to build or maintain bone strength. However, many people dont get enough of the essential nutrient. Thats especially dangerous for older women, who are at higher risk for osteop...
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Revamp your mudroom with these features.Cubbies and SeatingCubbies will keep your room organized. A place to sit while putting your shoes on is also helpful.Pet-Washing StationAll it takes is a small tub or shower area with a handheld sprayer to keep your pets clean.Sink and Counter SpaceFor any miscellaneous needs, its practical to have a sink and counter space in your mudroom.Laundry AreaHaving a laundry area in the mudroom is a welcome addition for quick clean ups from outside.Published with ...
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If you have or plan to have children and you’re shopping for a new home, one of the most important deciding factors will likely be the number of bedrooms. While many parents seek out homes that are large enough for each child to have his or her own room, some choose to have their children share bedrooms because of the clear benefits.It Teaches Important Social SkillsSharing a bedroom with a sibling teaches kids respect. Children who share rooms have to learn to respect each others belongings, ...
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You’ve heard the warnings about global warming, you feel compassion for stranded polar bears and you worry about overwhelming the landfills. As a homeowner, you may not be ready for composting, but there are ways to become an eco-friendlier household.Ecologists provide simple but useful tips that even the laziest activist can use to do their part in helping the environment:Cut down on water use. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth. Drink tap water in reusable containers instead of plast...
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Here are four exciting ways you can create an accent wall in your home.Fabric WallcoveringUsing a textured surface like fabric can help to warm a room up or add depth, depending on what you hope to achieve.Exposed BrickAn exposed brick wall evokes a sense of character in any setting"from urban to traditional.WallpaperFrom mesmerizing floral patterns to classic prints, the right wallpaper will bring a room to life while supplementing the existing color scheme.Bold PaintThe most common way to...
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In the wide world of kitchen dcor, the sink is rarely a star. Sandwiched between the granite countertops and the kitchen backsplash, it is perhaps the last thing homeowners think about. But considering how often we use it, and the different chores we use it for, the sink deserves a considered choice.Kitchen design consultants at HGTV provide kitchen sink basics to think about:Size and ShapeClassic Farmhouse A large, single-basin sink, this classic design works well if you plan to use it for mult...
