Your home isn’t simply a house secured with a set of locks and keys, it’s a safe haven where you and your family get some space to relax, away from the outside world.

So when hiring a contractor, you need to find one who understands your needs and gives you space and privacy you need. The million dollar question is how to find a design-build contractor you can trust.

After all, this is a stranger you are inviting in your home and may be around for weeks or months. Quite stressful, isn’t it?

First, you need to define why exactly you need a contractor. Then do a …

Styles come and go. Last year blues and purples were the hottest colors. This year Pantone, one of the world leading paint producers, has picked coral as the must-have color. And not just any coral – living coral.

This color might not be familiar now, but by the end of the year, you can expect to see it all over new and newly renovated spaces. Living coral is a warm tone that combines elements of red, orange, pink, and gold. It is bright without being bold and colorful without being cute.

Coral looks amazing in almost any space and as we turn the corner out …

It’s called home improvement for a reason – because your home is objectively better after the work is done. However, it’s important to consider all the effects of a home improvement, including the impact your home upgrades may have on your property taxes.

Since property tax is assessed based on the value of your home, it’s possible for a home improvement project to raise your property tax bill. Some projects won’t have any effect at all, but some will. This quick guide is designed to show you exactly what type of home improvements increase property taxes.

What Causes Property Taxes to Increase?

Property taxes can …

The comforts of home only increase with age. After decades in the same house, the space is so familiar that it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else. For that reason, it’s totally understandable that many people prefer to remain in their own homes rather than move to a more supported living environment. Luckily, aging-in-place is more feasible than ever. All it takes is planning, preparation, and some adaptation to the existing living space. As long as you make the right adjustments and enhancements, there is no reason someone can’t continue to live comfortably and safely in their own home. Follow this checklist to ensure your …

Curb appeal is hard to define but impossible to miss. Some homes just seem to grab your attention, hold your gaze, and demand a second look. These homes are the beacons of the block, becoming the pride of the owners and the envy of neighbors. And, not surprisingly, homes with curb appeal really stand out to prospective buyers too.

The start of Spring not only marks the beginning of a new season, but it’s also an opportunity to refresh your home with a deep clean. There are many benefits to giving the inside of your home a deep clean as we’re approaching Spring:

Your home feels fresh, clean, and organized. It’s easier to find the things you need and actually want. Home health improves once the dust and grime are gone. Surfaces and appliances last longer if they are deep cleaned consistently. A clean and organized home can help you feel more focused

Kitchen Tips

Deep cleaning your kitchen is essential to maintaining a …

The city of San Diego was founded in 1769. In the 250 years that followed, the area has grown, evolved, and embraced almost every architectural style imaginable. Thankfully, much of that historic architecture still stands, giving the city its distinctive feel.

Historical preservation is a source of civic pride, but it creates complications for homeowners who commit to living in older homes. Due to age, many of these homes need updates and improvements. Their historical status, however, restricts some types of home improvement projects. It’s important for anyone currently or potentially living in a historical home to understand their renovation options.

Where are the Historical …

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When you’re remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, you have a lot of choices to make. One of the most challenging is the type of countertops you’ll select. In addition to weighing options based on budget, you’ll also want to consider your lifestyle and how the countertops will be used. For example, do you entertain a lot (wine spills can spell disaster for some materials)? Are you a home chef that needs countertops that can withstand high temperatures? Or is the aesthetic look of the countertops your primary concern? For many it comes down to making the choice between quartz vs. granite countertops.  Picking out the …

One of the best ways to gain additional space on your property is through a granny flat construction or remodeling project. Using this smart design option involves converting the home’s garage space into living space, which enhances the value of your home in a cost-effective manner.

Converting a Garage to Living Space

Because a garage often is an open area, it works well for remodeling into living space. You almost have a clean slate with this type of remodel, giving you the ability to create a custom space that has the perfect luxury features to meet your needs. Here are some pros and cons to …

Should I stay or should I go? It’s a question almost all homeowners ask after a few years in the same space. Most houses aren’t perfect. But is the solution to remodel the existing floor plan or move to a different home? Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and the answer is different for every homeowner. Only you can determine which option is better for yourself, your family, and your home. Before you decide whether to remodel or move, ask yourself these questions:

Do You Truly Love Your Home?

People develop sentimental connections to their homes. The spaces are filled with fond memories and surrounded …