General Article (Page 12)

Designers that make good use of a home’s outdoor space can make any building seem like a mansion, and homeowners can often improve their building by focusing on outdoor living. There are a lot of options, so most people can find something that fits their budget and harmonizes with the rest of their property.

Use Greenery

Plants are a valuable tool for making an outdoor space look better and feel more comfortable. They provide a splash of color and some interesting shapes to break up an empty yard, but they allow it to retain a natural appearance. Gardeners can carefully prune them for a formal look, or let them spread out for a touch of wildness.

Trees are a particularly good choice because they can contribute shade. That makes the yard much more comfortable during the summer, so you will be more likely to use the space when it is … Read More

Taking on a home addition can be a challenge if you don’t have a plan in place or a set budget. However, if you make decisions about what the family needs and an addition that will add more function to the home, then the project will be beneficial and worth the time and effort that is involved. There are a few common custom home additions San Diego contractors can build that are a bit more popular than others with the design easily changed in the future if needed.

A sunroom is a nice addition to consider if don’t want to build a large room onto the house. This is a space where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature without being in the direct sunlight. With furniture and a grill, you can design a beautiful space for entertaining friends and family.

Another common addition that you can customize … Read More

February signals the start of tax season, a time when many Americans gain nearly $3,000 on average in the form of a tax refund, according to the IRS.

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• Splurging on a vacation or iPhone X is tempting, but as a homeowner, sinking refund cash into your house may be smarter, especially if debts are already under control, says Lisa Greene-Lewis, a certified public accountant and tax expert at TurboTax.
• Even small home improvements can nudge home value — and your quality of life — in a positive direction. But how do you decide what to do?
• The first question to ask, says Craig Webb, editor in chief of Remodeling magazine, is “How long do I plan to stay in the home?” The answer