by Michael Olear | Jul 30, 2015 | Buffalo, DIY Projects, General, Outdoor Upgrades, real estate value, Remodeling, Sellers, Upgrades
When putting your house on the market, it is vital to have it shown in its best possible light. The key however, is figuring out how to achieve this without breaking the bank. Consumer Reports provides the following agenda, for finding that perfect balance.
- Freshen up the bath: $300-$1,000
- Paint the rooms- selectively: $100 (DIY)-$1,000 (Pro)
- Clean up, clear out; smells and clutter: $0 (DIY)-$2,500 (Pro)
- Enhance the exterior: $150-$7,500
- Spruce up the kitchen: $300-$5,000
For complete descriptions on each, as well as potential returns, check out the following link from Consumer Reports here.
by Michael Olear | Jul 25, 2015 | DIY Projects, Outdoor Upgrades
Decks are long-lasting additions to your home, and can add to the value of your property if you ever decide to sell. Keeping your deck in tip-top shape can extend its lifespan, and save you money in the long term. Whether you need just a quick touch-up, or a complete overhaul; follow these easy steps to keep your deck looking great.
by Michael Olear | Jun 11, 2015 | DIY Projects, Gardening, General, Outdoor Upgrades, Summer Projects
Are you a garden enthusiast, or even just a proactive do-it-yourselfer that wants to get a leg-up on weeds and other lawn nuisances this spring? If so, check out this quick video clip from The Home Depot! It covers everything from; effective lawn seeding techniques, to when is the best time for shaping shrubs and bushes.
by Michael Olear | May 27, 2015 | Buffalo, Buffalo Weather, DIY Projects, General, Outdoor Upgrades, Summer Projects
With Memorial Day this past weekend, many of you may have broken out your lawn furniture for the first time this year. With the harsh and unpredictable weather we are accustomed to here in Buffalo; wear-and-tear on outdoor fixtures is virtually unavoidable. Check out these quick and easy tips from Zillow.com on how to get the most out of your outdoor furniture.
Extend the lifespan:
- Wipe up any beverage or food spills right away.
- Wipe off furniture after it rains.
- Remove any tree or bird deposits as soon as possible.
- Remove any residue from suntan lotions and body oils that can stain or accelerate the breakdown of materials. Have towels available to provide an easily cleanable barrier between chairs and their occupants.
- Store or cover furniture that doesn’t stand up well to constant exposure, such as bamboo.
- Check all bolts and screws and tighten any that may be loose.
- Replace broken, rusted or missing pieces.
- Use a silicone lubricant on all wheels and hinges.
- Bring the furniture inside during harsh winter weather or store under a breathable cover.
- Look underneath chaises for damage to the glides from dragging. Replace if they are worn out or missing.
- Aluminum is one of those great recyclable items. Strip this furniture to the aluminum only, removing webbing, hardware (if not aluminum) and glides. Recycled aluminum is made into cans, pie pans, small appliances and lawn furniture.
- If the furniture is still serviceable but your design ideas have changed, donate the item to a local charity that sells used goods.
- If the lawn furniture is made from No. 2 plastic, it also can be recycled into other durable products.
by Michael Olear | May 6, 2015 | Best Ideas Ever, Buffalo, Design, Outdoor Upgrades, Summer Projects
Spring is here at last, and Summer is right around the corner (we hope). Following one of the most brutal winters in recent memory, folks are looking for just about any excuse to spend the weekends outdoors. Check out these 8 creative ways to make your deck the place to be this summer.
