Choosing the right contractor for your renovation or building project is one of the most important construction decisions you will make. A good contractor can ensure quality work and a smooth renovation, while the wrong one can trigger nightmares. Here are eight tips to help you make the right choice when hiring a contractor: 1....
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Home improvement can be expensive, and contractor fraud can make it even more costly. Learn the warning signs and how to prevent contractor fraud.
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Home maintenance is an ongoing process. From raking leaves and replacing shingles to cleaning disposals and replacing batteries in smoke detectors, there’s always something to take care of. And since many of us are spending more time than usual at home right now, this may be a good opportunity to tackle some of these important...
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Whether building a new house or simply remodeling, being your own general contractor is tempting. Homeowners who take on that role can save as much as 35 percent of the project costs when things go smoothly. But even for weekend handymen, there’s a steep learning curve. 1. Have the right skillset General contractors have specialized...
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Are you looking for a way to help reach your financial goals? You’re not alone. 44% of working Americans have a side hustle. [1] Whether you’re looking for some extra cash, making ends meet, trying to keep up with inflation or just looking for something to do after work, a side hustle could be right...
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Many panic when they see water leaking from the roof. The first instinct may be to fix it yourself to save a few bucks. However, roof leaks can cause significant damage to a home if the underlying cause isn’t discovered and repaired properly. Knowing how to prevent a leaking roof and what to do when...
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As parents get older, they often include their adult children in deciding what type of housing they should consider. One of today’s trends is the rise of mother-in-law suites, which can also be called granny suites, granny pods and granny flats. These separate-but-connected spaces provide a way for adult children and their aging parents to...
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Painting your home can be inconvenient and time consuming, but it’s easier than it seems. It’s a good investment that extends the integrity and good looks of what, for most people, is their single greatest asset. Paint is your house’s first defense against the elements and the first impression guests and potential buyers receive. Here...
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A new driveway or patio can make your home more comfortable and welcoming. Your main decision when installing or updating is which material to use. The choice depends on local zoning, your budget and your needs. In many communities, building codes may specify what types of driveway materials are – or aren’t – allowed. These...
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Drafts, or air leaks, can come into your home through windows, fireplaces and even electrical outlets, making your house feel several degrees colder and driving up your heating bills. The potential energy savings from reducing drafts can range from 5% to 30% per year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Here are several ways...
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The workplace today knows no bounds, and more people are working from home. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, about 50% of all small businesses today are based in people’s homes, and there’s no indication that the trend will slow down any time soon.[1] Despite the numbers, many home business owners don’t have separate...
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Today’s workplace is changing, and the traditional employee-employer relationship is being transformed by contract and freelance employment. That’s a trend that is going to continue, experts say. In fact, the 2017 Freelancing in America study estimates that, by 2027, the majority of all workers will be freelancers.[1] Those looking for the best paying work from...
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If you’re running a business, you should have a contingency plan in case one or more key people leave, no matter if it’s because of retirement, death, a disagreement over strategy or a job opportunity at another firm. In some cases, such planning is crucial to ensure an orderly transition in ownership. It is an...
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