If you've always wanted the contemporary and rustic...

When it's time to begin a major home improvement project — such as a complete kitchen renovation or an upstairs addition — you may end up living in a construction zone for the next several weeks or months. Fortunately, there are solutions out there that can help. These tips will help you live in your space even if...

When preparing for a new home purchase, it’s crucial to plan for the average closing costs for buyer hopefuls on a budget. Closing costs are made up of various service charges associated with the entire home buying process, including appraisals and title paperwork. Because closing costs can add up to thousands of dollars, it’s helpful to prepare for...

Every homeowners insurance policy includes a percentage of coverage for additional living expenses. If you’re temporarily displaced from your home because of damage, this coverage can help you pay for the additional everyday expenses until you’re able to move back in. But what exactly does additional living expense (ALE) coverage include? Here is a basic guide to the...

Natural disasters are scary for humans and pets. Animals can sense our stress levels and the more stressed we are, the worse they feel. That's why it's crucial to prepare for the possibility of a disaster so you and your pet can manage it safely and calmly. Here are some tips for how to keep your pets safe...

A fireplace is a highly sought-after home feature, and many homeowners want to make the most of theirs with great fireplace design. For those looking to design fireplaces for their sitting area or areas after they’ve been installed or have recently bought a home with a new brick fireplace, the possibilities are endless. Here is a quick guide...

Unfortunately, many popular houseplants are toxic to pets. Many of the small tree varieties commonly grown as houseplants, like the umbrella plant, can make both humans and animals sick if ingested. Here is a basic guide to popular indoor trees pet owners should avoid: Umbrella Plant Umbrella plants are named for their whorl-pattern leaves creating a dense canopy...

If you’re interested in sustainability, aquatic life and gardening, you might consider aquaponics with fish. Aquaponics combines methods from hydroponic gardening and aquaculture to create a symbiotic environment in your home fish tank. To learn more about aquaponics, here is a basic guide to help: How it works Aquaponic systems are used to cultivate fish and plants in...

Hazard insurance and homeowners insurance are often mistaken for the same thing due to the similarities they share. While standard homeowners insurance policies include hazard coverage, standalone hazard insurance serves a different purpose. How do you know if you need hazard insurance? Here is a guide to help you understand the basics: Hazard insurance vs. homeowners insurance Hazard...

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers many financial benefits for veterans wanting to purchase a home. There are even more specific benefits for veterans with qualifying disabilities. These options are important to know if you are interested in financing help to buy your dream home. Here is the most important information to know: Special housing grants A...

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The process of finding the perfect condo is similar to finding any other type of home--with a few exceptions. Here are some of the key factors to consider when purchasing a condo: Your Budget How much can you afford to spend on a condo? Make sure you evaluate your budget to get a sense of whether you can...