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Home Improvement: The Truth About Going Green

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-09-21T17:51:00 00:00

When it comes to green home improvements, a lot of people are stuck in black-and-white thinking. Either you install solar panels or you might as well continue to gobble fossil fuel. Either you use sustainable materials or you destroy old-growth forests. The reality, of course, lies someplace in between. That's why it's worth taking a closer look at some widely held assumptions about green improvements. The truth may surprise you.

Green Assumption No. 1: Sunlight Is the Answer

Solar energy may very well be the answer for the future, but until photovoltaic panels become more efficient and easier to manufacture, they won't be a cost-effective solution for most homeowners. The real reason to reconsider this truth is that, despite all the promise of solar energy, creating an airtight home and improving insulation values is the quickest and most cost-effective path to a more energy-efficient housing stock. Remarkably, the most underrated aspect of green building is simply quality framing and construction that will provide an airtight home for decades. (Find highly rated professional insulation contractors in your area.)

Green Assumption No. 2: Renewable Materials Are Always Green

Too many people think that the only way to be green is to use materials that are recycled and/or renewable. True, we need to avoid consuming materials past the point of sustainability, but the energy consumption associated with the transportation of building materials is a far more urgent environmental hazard.

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Take the example of bamboo. Bamboo is considered a "green" building material because its insanely fast growth rate means it is quickly replenished. But the energy consumption associated with transporting it from far-off Asian countries can wipe out any renewable benefits. A better solution may be to use locally sourced timber from a tree farm that follows sustainable practices, or imported timber stamped with the Forest Stewardship Council logo, which certifies that the wood has been harvested from an environmentally responsible source. (Find highly rated carpenters in your area.)

Green Assumption No. 3: Green Is Incompatible With Luxury

Conserving materials, energy, and water are the three touchstones of the green revolution, but that doesn't mean you have to give up luxuries for the sake of the environment. To some degree, consumption can be offset by nifty innovations. Consider a solar water heater and insulating blanket to save energy with your in-ground pool, for example. And rather than restrict your furniture choices to those built with renewable materials, look for furniture with a collapsible design that can be shipped flat, saving space and transportation costs.

Unfortunately, offsetting choices will only get us so far. It's also necessary to change some ingrained habits. Cable boxes and satellite systems, for example, can use nearly half the power of energy-efficient refrigerators, even when you're not watching TV. Leaving these so-called "energy vampires" plugged in adds convenience, but at a cost to your utility bills and to the environment. (Find highly rated professionals in your area who specialize in energy efficiency projects.)

Green Assumption No. 4: Incandescent Lightbulbs are Dead

Arguably, no area of green home improvement is evolving as fast as lightbulbs. It wasn't that long ago that people were saying that incandescent bulbs were going the way of VCRs and 8-track tapes. Now there are incandescent bulbs that use 30 percent less energy than conventional versions. That's not as good as the 75 percent savings offered by compact fluorescent bulbs, but it's good enough to meet more stringent federal regulations. High-efficiency LED lights, too, are getting better and more affordable each year.

With all these options, you may want to vary your lighting schemes. For example, use high-efficiency incandescent bulbs for the bedroom, dining room and living room, where you want the warm quality of incandescent light. But in basements, garages, and other areas where light quality is not that critical, go with the extra energy economy of compact fluorescent bulbs.

Thinking about making improvements to increase the value of your home? Here are some AOL Real Estate guides to help you, whether you're planning cosmetic upgrades or a full-scale remodel.

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Home Improvement: Top Projects for Under $2,500

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-09-20T15:32:00 00:00

A price tag of $2,500 is in the sweet spot for many home improvement projects. It represents a little more than two weeks' salary for the average U.S. household. It's also about the amount of the average federal tax refund. Projects paid with Uncle Sam's givebacks may not be game-changers, but they can still have a substantial impact in terms of comfort, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.

Here are the top 10 candidates for home improvement projects under $2,500, with average cost figures compiled from data provided by homeowners across the country who actually completed these projects.

10. Repair damaged drywall ($2,150)
Whether it's a consequence of water damage, an upgrade to insulation, or part of a larger remodel, new drywall can help give your home's interior like-new status. If you're forced to completely knock down the walls of a room, you might also think about upgrading to plaster walls. Plaster is stronger, holds paint better, provides superior insulation, and offers a more appealing wall texture. (Find highly rated professional drywall contractors in your area.)

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9. Paint the house interior ($2,152)
Some people enjoy picking up a brush and roller and tackling an interior paint project. Others prefer to avoid the tedium of laying down plastic, taping edges, and cleaning up afterward. Or maybe you just don't have the time to spare. In either case, a fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable ways to transform a home's interior. Before you suffer sticker shock, note this cost figure represents interior painting for an entire house. The average cost for smaller painting projects is $736, a price that includes paint and supplies. (Find highly rated professional painting contractors in your area.)

8. Refinish wood flooring ($1,705)
One of the biggest mistakes a homeowner can make is to install a high-quality wood floor and then neglect it. As foot traffic wears down the finish, water and moisture begin to warp the boards, and one of the most coveted and costly flooring options loses value. To determine if your wood floor might be in need of refinishing, pour one tablespoon of water on a high-traffic area. If the water beads up, you're good to go. If the water seeps in and/or creates a dark spot, it's time to consider refinishing. (Find highly rated professional floor refinishers in your area.)

7. Install a solar water heater ($2,475)
You may not have the means to install a photovoltaic electrical system or geothermal heating and cooling, but cost-effective solar water heaters have arrived. Currently coming in at just under the $2,500 budget, these systems should continue to come down in price as design and distribution become more mainstream. High-quality solar water heaters not only save money on energy bills, they also last 50 percent longer than conventional water heating systems. (Find highly rated professional plumbers in your area.)

6. Replace the front or rear entry door ($1,145)
A solid wood, cherry-red front door is something of an American icon, but there are many wonderful possibilities if you've got an old eyesore in need of replacement. Likewise, sliding glass patio doors are a great upgrade that creates a pleasant entry point into the backyard and can also bathe interior spaces in natural light during the day. (Find highly rated door and window contractors in your area.)

5. Install carpeting ($1,683)
You may be reluctant to invest in a high-quality carpet because of the extra care needed to make the investment worthwhile. Yet carpet's short life expectancy is often exaggerated. Well-maintained carpet can last 15 years or more...and look good doing it. In addition to choosing a resilient fiber, opt for dense padding that will provide the backbone for your carpet's durability. (Find highly rated professional carpet installers in your area.)

4. Replace the garage door ($1,087)
It doesn't seem like the flashiest home improvement at first, but a new garage door has multi-faceted appeal. New garage doors are more secure from home intruders, easier and more reliable to operate, and a great (if underappreciated) way to enhance your home's curb appeal. For beauty, go with wood. For security, choose steel. To keep costs down, opt for aluminum or fiberglass. (Find highly rated professional garage-door installers in your area.)

3. Blow In More Insulation--($1,590)
For less than two grand, blown-in insulation can reduce your home's heating and cooling bills by up to 20-30%. This one is a no-brainer, but before you sign on the dotted line, you need to make sure it's done right: Inexperienced contractors or DIYers may create moisture problems. Careless proximity to electrical outlets or appliances may produce a fire hazard. Worse, dishonest contractors may use deception (known as "fluffing") to install inferior blown-in insulation. (Find highly rated professional insulation contractors in your area.)

2. Add Seamless Metal Gutters--($1,082)
Today's metal gutters are a lot more reliable than in generations past. Seamless gutters eliminate the biggest vulnerability--seams between sections of gutter--offering unquestioned protection from run-off rainfall. Gutters will extend the life expectancy of your roof, siding, and even reduce basement moisture levels and the risk of flooding. For an extra bonus, you can install a rain barrels or a cistern to collect rainwater for free lawn irrigation. (Find highly rated professional gutter installers in your area.)

1. Install tile flooring ($1,912)
Few surfaces look as good as brand-new tile, whether it's for bathroom or kitchen flooring, to stand up to dirty, wet shoes in the foyer, or a shower surround. Find a reputable contractor, and this project is top dog for can't-miss status. If you're a fan of the texture and tight setting of natural stone tile, you can upgrade from ceramic and still stay within budget (average cost: $2,083). (Find a highly rated professional tiling contractor in your area.)

Trying to decide which home improvements fit your budget? Here are some AOL Real Estate guides to help, whether you're spending a lot or a little:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Home Improvement: Do It Yourself or Hire a Contractor?

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-09-16T17:11:00 00:00

Knowing whether or not tackle a home improvement yourself can seem simple: Match the project's degree of difficulty to your own skill level and make a decision, right? Although that line of thinking is a solid jumping-off point, you need to consider other factors before deciding whether you're better off picking up a hammer or the telephone.

Here are some guidelines to help you figure out when it pays to do it yourself, and when your ambition can do damage to your property, your pocketbook, or -- even worse -- your person.

Three Reasons to Consider Hiring a Contractor

You could make the problem worse. Research your specific project and try to identify the worst-case scenario. Failed DIY endeavors can end up costing several thousand extra dollars. The risk may be too high to justify doing it yourself.

It looks easy in a book. Many people convince themselves a DIY project is within their skill set based on a DIY video or step-by-step written tutorial. These aids tend to delineate the steps of a "textbook" project. But throw in the inevitable real-life wrinkle, and your knowledge and skill set may not be sufficient.

Just because you can doesn't mean you should. The precision and thoroughness of a high-quality contractor can create home improvements that last two, three, even 10 times longer than the average DIY result. (Find highly rated professional general contractors in your area.)

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Projects Most Likely to Get DIYers Into Trouble

Drywall repair: This one is too often billed as anybody-can-do-it when that's simply not the case. Spreading joint compound requires a surprising amount of finesse. Most people don't appreciate how much drywall dust will infiltrate the house. Plus, water-related drywall damage can lead DIYers to neglect larger, underlying problems. (Find highly rated drywall professionals in your area.)

Fence installation: People get so focused on mustering the pluck and labor necessary to dig and set the fence posts that they neglect subtle but critical components of fence installation. Not sinking the posts deep enough, making assumptions about property lines, and using the wrong or inadequate fasteners can shorten the life of the fence and even lead to lawsuits from your neighbors. (Find highly rated professional fence installers in your area.)

Tile re-grouting: The step-by-step manuals make it sound simple, but regrouting tile takes a lot of patience and precision. For instance, you have to completely remove the existing grout, mix the new grout properly (without too much or too little moisture), apply the grout and carefully squeegee the tiles clean of "grout haze," then reapply in places where grout shrank during the drying process. If you're not confident in your ability to execute all the steps, this may not be a DIY job for you. (Find highly rated professional tile contractors in your area.)

Commonly Missed DIY Opportunities

Door installation: The key here is to make sure your doorframe isn't warped and out of square. As long as your doorframe is in decent condition, you can buy a prefinished, preassembled door that requires only the most elementary carpentry skills to install.

Caulking: Learning the basics of caulking isn't terribly hard, and it can pay off in multiple areas of the home. You can seal your windows, eliminating energy-sapping drafts. You can protect your bathtub, toilet, and sink from water infiltration. That said, you do need to be careful; you don't want to trap water behind a caulked seal.

Hot water tank insulation: There are other ways to reduce your water heating bill than just turning down the temperature. Water tank insulation kits can make installing an insulating blanket a one- or two-hour project that can reduce your water heating costs by about 10%.

Final Thoughts

If you're worried about getting price-gouged or aboutshoddy workmanship, often the answer isn't DIY so much as taking the time to interview several prospective contractors for the job. Many contractors are honest, skilled, and willing to go the extra mile. Others are actively trying to scam homeowners or simply have no idea what they're doing. With a little research, you should be able to identify one type of contractor from the other and discover your own home improvement limits.

Thinking about making improvements to increase the value of your home? Here are some AOL Real Estate guides to help you:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Make Your Lawn Eco-Friendly and Low-Maintenance

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-09-03T11:54:00 00:00

Filed under: Design,Home Improvement

The prospect of weekly vacuuming and annual steam cleaning is enough to turn off many people to carpet. Dishwashers have gotten so powerful that "pre-rinsing" is becoming as outmoded as vinyl records. Even toilets are self-cleaning. What does this have to do with landscaping? Well, it's a paradox: American homeowners are willing to hunt down every time-saving device for their home interiors, but they continue to spend dozens, if not hundreds, of hours maintaining their lawn each year. Moreover, the maintenance of your lawn is, if anything, worse for the local ecosystem than many of the low-maintenance alternatives.

Learn alternative landscaping techniques for your lawn and the myths about tending it by which you should no longer abide!

The Sanctity of the American Lawn

Arguably, natural grass landscaping is a generational thing. The vision of our dream home was conceived of early on in life: Our parents had natural grass lawns, so our dream house typically includes a natural grass lawn. But the 21st century has seen a growing concern for water conservation, while "grassless" landscaping design has improved by leaps and bounds. Green doesn't always mean natural, and many lawn grasses aren't even indigenous. It doesn't have to be a moral thing: Almost nobody will judge you for maintaining a perfectly manicured St. Augustine grass lawn. But at the same time you shouldn't base your choice of ground cover on the idea that natural grass is an inherently superior way to go. (Find highly rated professional landscapers in your area.)

Alternative Landscaping Ideas, Tips, and Benefits

Ground covers. Mother Nature has a much larger catalog of botanical beauties than just grass. Juniper, clover, periwinkle and mosses are just a few alternative ground covers. For something more inside-the-box, "low-mow" grass species or ornamental grasses can at least reduce your lawn maintenance load.

Conserving water. If you're less concerned with reducing maintenance and more concerned with eco-friendly landscaping, you should focus on water conservation. Reportedly, landscaping accounts for more than 50 percent of water consumption in some municipalities.

Reducing lawn area. Don't fall into the trap of all-or-nothing thinking. By adding decorative rocks, installing a concrete patio or walkway, and planting a well-placed tree or two, you can significantly reduce your lawn area (and maintenance) without completely losing the appeal of natural grasses. (Find highly rated professional walkway-installers in this area.)

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Leaf-Raking: The Great Landscaping Myth

Hand-in-hand with the sanctity of conventional landscaping are a handful of myths that lead to further missed opportunities to lower your maintenance chores. Perhaps no myth is bigger than the one that you must rake and dispose of leaves before they're buried under the first heavy snowfall. It's true that you can't leave a layer of fall foliage to slowly decompose on your lawn, while blocking sunlight and moisture. But if you get the lawn mower out and churn those leaves up into fertilizing mulch, your lawn may actually be better for it. You don't even have to wait for a dry spell. Assuming your mower blades can avoid getting snagged, slightly damp leaves actually shred more readily.

Now, there is one caveat: A thick layer of mowed leaves can contribute to excessive thatch, the layer of organic material between grass blades and the soil. Ironically, the dead leaves that improve the soil quality can cause grass to grow too fast the following spring, the ostensible cause of thatch. That said, so long as you don't treat your lawn with conventional fertilizer and don't overwater, your lawn should be fine. To truly ease your mind, you can periodically (maybe once every one to three years) aerate your lawn, a wise step whether you rake your leaves or not. (Find highly rated professional landscapers in your area.)

Other Landscaping Myths

It's better to have long grass or it's better to have short grass. Different grasses have different optimal lengths, but more important, by far, is the willingness to mow your lawn often. Taking long grass and mowing it short will leave mostly bare stock, leaving your grass less able to produce new grass shoots. If you're unwilling to make this commitment, it's another reason to consider the alternatives. (Find highly rated lawn care professionals in your area.)

Hedges are the best way to improve my home's curb appeal. Hedges or shrubs are beautiful landscaping additions, but they can also be dangerous disguises. Hedges can trap moisture to the side of your home for extended periods. If you're trying to cover up siding that's already in decline, hedges can become the coup de grace. (Find highly rated professionals to remove trees or shrubs.)

It's best to water my lawn in the evening, when I won't need as much water. Yes, the midday sun will cause a certain amount of your lawn irrigation to evaporate, but your grass is still in greatest need during this time. By watering later in the day, you may be creating enough moisture for fungus to take hold. (Find highly rated sprinkler-system professionals in your area.)

Still wondering what you should do with your lawn or exterior spaces? See AOL Real Estate's Home Improvement Guides for more tips:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Energy-Efficient Home Improvements for Every Budget

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-09-02T09:25:00 00:00

It's easy to give homeowners tips on home improvements that increase energy efficiency -- without considering the budgets available to different homeowners. On an individual, national, and international level, there can be no green revolution without a cost-effective strategy. As a homeowner, you need to devote a reasonable portion of your annual income to energy-efficient home improvements, but it need not be an oppressive weight on your finances. Take a look at these simple and effective three-step strategies for budgets of all sizes.

Here are ideas for energy-efficient home improvement at the $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $25,000 levels:

With $500...

Caulking/sealing air leaks
Before installing every fancy gadget and energy-efficient appliance, sealing air leaks from windows, doors and walls is always the first
step toward a more energy-efficient home. If you can't afford an energy audit and weatherstripping, then you probably qualify for the federal government's weatherization program, which will subsidize these projects. (See AOL Real Estate's guide: Home Improvement Grants Give Homeowners a Boost.)

Better lightbulbs
This isn't exactly breaking news anymore, but if you haven't already switched to compact fluorescent bulbs, this is step two. If you can't abide the harsh light of fluorescents, new incandescent bulbs are 30 percent more energy-efficient.

Outdoor solar lighting
This might seem redundant, but it's worth emphasizing the point that, on a shoestring budget, it's best to focus home improvements on eliminating drafts and needless expenditures. And there's simply no reason to use electricity for outdoor lighting anymore. These lights will channel the sun's daytime energy into free nighttime illumination.

With $1,000...

Replace exterior doors
A more permanent and superior solution to weatherstripping is installing new exterior doors. Energy loss through these doors is about
half that of windows. Installation is a large part of this cost, so replacing multiple doors in one shot should lead to a good chunk of savings. (Find highly rated window and door professionals in your area.)

Install a programmable thermostat
As it is with many things, timing matters when it comes to energy use. Despite the extra energy needed to compensate later
in the day, shutting off systems in the daytime and trimming use in the middle of the night can still save a substantial amount of energy and cost. (Find highly rated air conditioning professionals in your area.)

Window coverings
It doesn't get a lot of attention, but window coverings aren't just about interior decorating. Versatile window coverings can allow you to employ effective daylighting strategies that will take the burden off interior lighting. In some cases, you may want a covering that will act as a makeshift insulating shield for your window glass. (Find highly rated decorators and designers in your area.)

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With $5,000...

Upgrade water heating
Ideally, you'll install a solar water heating system that will achieve unmatched energy-efficiency and a longer lifespan, but even tankless water heating systems and better-insulated hot water tanks can be a significant upgrade over older units. (Find highly rated professional plumbers in your area.)

Replace a major appliance(s)
Refrigerators are best, followed by washers and dryers, but you should also evaluate those appliances which are oldest and closest to failure. Even replacing dishwashers, oven ranges and microwaves can make a sizable difference.

Install Insulation
Whether it's blown into wall cavities or rolled onto attic space, there is usually a worthwhile opportunity for new insulation. Though it sounds straightforward, you'll need to consult with a contractor who can knowledgeably identify the area of greatest need and the most cost-effective solution. (Learn more about this with AOL Real Estate's guide: Insulation at Home Saves Money.)

With $25,000...

Replacement windows
This energy-efficient home improvement has become the poster child for green home improvements over the years. It's costly, but it delivers matching -- even surpassing -- cost-savings. Rarely a bad idea, if you still have single-pane windows on your home, this project is priority one for larger budgets. (Find highly rated window and door professionals in your area.)

Upgrade heating and/or cooling system
If either system is advancing in years, it's time to start researching the possibilities. Heat pumps, zoning schemes, hydronic heating, swamp coolers, geothermal, and new Energy Star furnaces and air conditioners are all options, the best of which can be assessed by a local HVAC contractor. (Find highly rated air conditioning professionals in your area.)

Roofing or siding
Major financial investments should continue to pay off decades later. Energy-efficient roofing or siding will reduce your heating and cooling bills, while enhancing your home's curb appeal and ensuring its structural integrity. Talk to contractors about which materials fit best with your local climate. (Find highly rated roofing professionals in your area or siding professionals.)

Final Thought

Listing these budget strategies with three steps is not an arbitrary decision. Just like your general home improvement and remodeling budget, spreading your financial resources throughout your home usually creates the best energy-efficiency returns.

Want more ideas for home improvement? Here are more AOL Real Estate home improvement and renovation guides to help you, no matter whether you choose to buy or rent:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Home Improvement: Best Ideas for Every Room in the House

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-09-01T17:36:00 00:00

Filed under: Home Improvement

The home improvements that add the most value, like updated kitchens and baths, also cost the biggest bucks. But you don't have to shell out for a full-scale renovation to get payback for your remodeling dollar. Sometimes all it takes is one strategic upgrade to transform an entire room. If your home-improvement budget is limited, take inspiration from this list of the best ideas for every room in the house:

Kitchen: Replace the countertop.

There's no shortage of potential kitchen upgrades, but replacing the countertop is a sure winner. Cabinetry can be prohibitively expensive. Energy-efficient appliances are great, but most people justifiably wait until the old ones break down. A new countertop will immediately improve your kitchen's visual appeal while also adding convenience and efficiency to your food-prep routines. (Find highly rated kitchen countertop installers in your area.)

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Bathroom: Upgrade the bathtub.

Maybe you want to replace the old tub with a jetted model or a freestanding soaking tub. Or perhaps you want to add a separate tub to complement an existing shower stall. Either way, the bathtub becomes the natural focal point of the bathroom. If a new tub isn't in the budget, you can refinish the existing tub so it looks brand-new. (Find highly rated bathroom contractors in your area.)

Bedroom: Buy a new bed.

The reason to buy a new bed is only partly about the comfort and health benefits of a plush new mattress. It's also about the advantages of modern bed design. New, high-quality platform beds don't require a box spring. So you get a sleek, modern look plus increased storage capacity. Some styles even have a hidden storage compartment beneath the mattress.

Living Room: Change the wall treatment.

Whether it's drywall texturing, a fresh coat of paint, crown molding, chic wallpaper, wood paneling, or just a new set of wall hangings, virtually every living room can be affordably transformed with new wall décor. And don't discount the possibility of improving the room's functioning, either. Adding or moving electrical outlets and switches can allow for easier access to electricity and fewer eyesores associated with running cords throughout the room. (Find highly rated remodeling contractors in your area.)

Basement: Add lighting.

This project is a great idea for both finished and unfinished basements. Because it looks clean and doesn't compromise headroom, recessed lighting is the dominant trend for basements. But don't just think about adding artificial lighting. By adding new windows or expanding existing ones, you can add both brightness and value to subterranean spaces. Glass blocks are another great option for adding natural light without sacrificing privacy. (Find highly rated basement remodelers in your area.)

Garage: Change the garage door.

Too many homeowners fail to appreciate just how big an impact their garage door has on home appearance and value. After all, it's often the first thing that visitors see. It's also one of the first lines of defense against home intruders. Your garage door needs to be handsome, sturdy and, if the garage is attached to the house, well-insulated. It also needs to have a reliable garage door opening system. As an entryway into your home, your garage door needs to enhance, not detract from, your home's curb appeal, in much the same way as your front door. (Find highly rated garage-door installers in your area.)

The Best Project for Any Room in the House

As a bonus, we thought we'd offer up this tidbit. New flooring has to be the best project for any room in the house, whether it's plush carpet in the bedroom, ceramic tile in the bathroom, hardwood in the kitchen, cork in the living room or laminate in the basement. Flooring is one of the only home features that people constantly see and touch. New floors can improve the value of the home: Prospective buyers are guaranteed to consider flooring when making a decision. Plus, it will enhance your enjoyment of your home every day. At a reasonable cost, this is the one can't-miss project for any room in the house. (Find highly rated flooring contractors in your area.)

Want more home improvement ideas? Here are some AOL Real Estate guides to help you:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Home Improvements: Top Projects Under $500

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-29T23:31:00 00:00

These home improvement projects may not be the most expensive, but it doesn't make them less important. Often, projects that cost less than $500 involve work that maintains and protects a larger home system worth tens of thousands of dollars. Unfortunately, these projects are also the ones that are most commonly neglected by homeowners, who imagine that they have plenty of time to get things done. Don't assume that inexpensive projects lack urgency.

Here are our top picks for home improvement projects under $500:

Cleaning Services

You might think that you've done everything when you check off your spring cleaning list, but few people have the time and means to complete a truly comprehensive housecleaning schedule. While homeowners may be hard-wired to focus on dusting and interior surface cleaning, no component of housecleaning should be left unattended.

Clean chimney or fireplace ($250-$350). The cleaning task most likely to get left off your list, chimney sweeping will prevent lethal, creosote-burning fires.

Window cleaning ($200-$250). If you have easy-clean windows, go for it. Otherwise, use the pros to avoid injuries that can result from exterior window cleaning.

Carpet cleaning ($200-$250). Rented carpet cleaning machines don't have the high- pressure steam needed to do this job right.

Gutter cleaning ($150-$250). It takes more than throwing leaves down from a ladder to clean gutters. Pros will flush out downspouts and inspect the entire gutter system.

Maid service ($150-$200). Whether you need help finishing a spring cleaning list or with weekly chores, a housekeeping service can give you time for other home projects.

Find a local expert contractor who has been pre-screened by ServiceMagic

Home Repairs

One of the frustrating parts of homeownership is the consistent costs of basic home repairs. Renovations add something new, but repairs only return the home to its previous condition. While cleaning is as inevitable as it is expected, the need for repairs often occurs suddenly and, it seems, at the worst possible time. But you do yourself no favors by postponing these repairs.

Furnace or A/C repair ($300-$375). If you know something is ailing your system, you may get a discount if you call the pros during the off-season.

Repair faucets, fixtures or pipes ($300-$400). No plumbing problem is minor. Leaks can cost you real money, needlessly waste water and create even bigger problems. (Find highly rated professional plumbers in your area.)

Garage door repair ($225-300). Don't underestimate the urgency of this repair. Between energy costs and home security, a working garage door is a must.

Carpet repair ($200-$300). Many homeowners leave carpet stains and burns on their carpet for years. Usually cut-and-plug carpet repairs are easier than you fear. (Find highly rated professional carpenters in your area.)

Hire a handyman-$400-$500. If you have more than one simple home repair, hiring a handyman for the day is usually the most cost-effective and timely solution. (Find highly rated handymen in your area.)

Small Projects

Compared to fifty-grand kitchen remodels and bathroom additions, it's hard to imagine a $500 budget is enough to enhance the look or function of your home. But homeowners don't realize just how many small, around-the-house projects there are. This list is far from comprehensive, but it does include some classic home projects and a few, new tasks that are catching homeowners' attention.

Install a TV wall mount ($350-$450). Don't worry that the otherwise perfect HDTV doesn't have the right mount. The pros can build you a custom wall mount.

Install concealed wiring for home theater ($300-$400). You shouldn't have to look at unwieldy wires when you can hire a professional to hide them.

Install garage door opener ($300-$400). With added convenience, better security and less noise, automatic openers have become a staple in U.S. homes.

Install ceiling fan ($300-$400). This tried-and-true energy-saver still has teeth. Look for one that's properly designed for your needs and properly sized for your room.

Install electrical switches, outlets or fixtures ($300-$400). You may need to take a look around the house to realize how much you can benefit from moving switches and adding outlets.

(Find highly rated professional general contractors in your area.)

Still need some advice with your next home improvement? Here are more AOL Real Estate guides to help you:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Top 10 Home Improvement Projects Under $5,000

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-24T16:55:00 00:00

Many homeowners look for that elusive home improvement that will make a substantial impact on their home without making a huge dent in their budget. Although everybody has his or her own level of financial resources, many people find that they need to limit their budget to $5,000 or less to circumvent several years of penny-pinching. The figures below represent the average cost of top home improvement projects for under five-grand as actually completed between homeowners and home improvement contractors across the country.

10. Wood fencing ($2,858)
Pet containment? Landscaping accent? Backyard privacy? Another layer of home security? Whatever the reason or reasons, wood fencing will rise to the challenge. From small picket fences to tall fence paneling, there is a wood fence for every property. Take a look through magazines and around the neighborhood. There are more options within your budget than you realize. (Find highly rated fence-installers in your area.)

9. Heat pump ($4,860)
More energy-efficient than most furnace and A/C units, a basic heat pump is a great cost-saving home-improvement option for supplemental heating and cooling. If you live in a mild climate or opt for a top-of-the-line product, this single, innovative device can take care of all your heating and cooling needs. (Find highly rated heating and cooling contractors in your area.)

8. Exterior house painting ($3,011)
It's hard to argue against the difference between washed-out, sun-bleached siding and one with a fresh sheen of paint. But more than curb appeal is at stake for this home improvement: You need a fresh coat of paint or sealant every two to 10 years for wood siding and every 15-25 years for fiber-cement. Take the time with your contractor to discuss the quality and cost difference between different paint products. (Find highly rated house painters in your area.)

7. Basement waterproofing ($4,012)
Although a bigger space and bigger budget, arguably it's easier to serve as your own project manager for a basement renovation than a kitchen or bathroom home-improvement. Start with waterproofing and plumbing, and you can finish the remodeling component next year when you've had a chance to replenish your financial resources. (Find highly rated waterproofing inspectors in your area.)

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6. Sprinkler system ($2,786)
Installing a sprinkler system should be about water conservation and a healthy lawn. Let convenience be a guilty pleasure: Automatic systems will water your lawn during the late morning and early afternoon, when lawns are at their greatest need. Watering the lawn when you get home from work is a recipe for fungus and disease. Plus, these systems will ensure even water coverage. (Find highly rated sprinkler system contractors in your area.)

5. Landscaping ($4,079)
Of course, for a truly eco-friendly lawn, you should enlist the services of a landscaping company. There are many beautiful lawn covers besides fescue and Bermuda. Shrubs, colored gravel, gardens, and synthetic lawn covers are just some of the possibilities. In conjunction with comprehensive landscape design, you'll make your neighbor's Kentucky bluegrass look like amateur hour. (Find highly rated landscapers in your area.)

4. Stone countertops ($4,347)
It's hard to underestimate the importance of countertops in a home improvement project when it comes to the look and function of a kitchen. Stone countertops continue to reign supreme in this arena, but don't get herded into the mentality that granite is necessarily the best choice. For performance and value, a strong case could be made for quartz as top dog. (Find highly rated stone and tile contractors in your area.)

3. Concrete flatwork for driveway or patio ($3,650)
How can a new driveway or patio for less than five grand not make this list? Homeowners who already have these residential home improvements tend to take them for granted, but off-street parking (that doesn't involve gravel kicking up underneath your car) and a flat, hard surface to place a grill or lounge chair is the epitome of sensible luxury. (Find highly rated concrete contractors in your area.)

2. Concrete stamping and finishing ($4,260)
Interested in a driveway or patio but not crazy about the look or feel of concrete? Too many people run into the arms of brick and stone (average cost: $5,965) without realizing that they can upgrade their flatwork, create a nearly perfect imitation of natural stone or brick, and save somewhere in the ballpark of $2,000 with concrete stamping. (Find highly rated concrete contractors in your area.)

1. Laminate flooring ($3,899)
The top home improvement project for this list is laminate flooring and the reason is clear. To install a new floor that rivals hardwood for performance and visual appeal for less than five grand is as close as you can get to a can't-miss home improvement. Just be sure to take the time to look at different laminate products, and don't get overconfident about your ability to install this flooring on your own. (Find highly rated flooring contractors in your area.)

Final Tip: This budget size is particularly susceptible to homeowners who look for the cheapest option, only to be disappointed with lackluster results. Nearly any project on this list can be the source of great aggravation and greater expenditures down the road, if you cut the wrong corners. Stay diligent when looking at potential products and contractors.

Want more home improvement ideas? Here are some AOL Real Estate guides to help you:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Home Improvement: Top Projects Under $1,000

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-20T09:30:00 00:00

It's hard enough to save $1,000 for your home improvement budget. Trying to decide on the best way to spend the money can be overwhelming when you run into project-after-project that's just a little too expensive. It's easy to become so discouraged that you abandon the idea. And that's unfortunate when there are several worthwhile, reasonably priced improvements out there.

Here are 10 top home improvement projects, one of which will likely answer your needs:

o. Install a water heater - $922

Whether it's a shower that runs out of hot water, rising monthly bills, or a plumbing failure, a reliable water heating system is a great treat for your home. If you're worried about affordability, a conventional hot water tank will do the trick. For greater energy-efficiency, you should be able to install a tankless system for just over $1,000. (Find highly rated professional plumbers in your area.)

o. Clean and seal a deck or porch - $888

It's not the most exciting of home improvements, but ensuring a long, healthy life for your deck or porch by sealing it this year is a wise investment. If you usually take care of this project yourself, you know it's more time-consuming than it looks. Maybe you can take this year off. The pros will use high-quality sealant products and a flawless application method. (Find highly rated deck & porch professionals in your area.)

o. Install a security system - $873

It sounds like an easy sell, but it's also just as easy for homeowners to tell themselves that they won't get robbed or that installing a security system won't make a difference. With a smart design and implementation, these systems will act as an effective deterrent, while lowering your homeowners' insurance. AOL Real Estate's guides have more information on cutting-edge security systems that are available on the market.

o. Tree service - $801

Tree trimming is one of the most widely neglected pieces of landscaping maintenance and home improvements. Along with reducing the odds that you'll need to chop them down, keeping your trees healthy will enhance their visual appeal and, in turn, your home's. Once you see how quickly your tree creates new shoots, you'll realize just how much dead branches were holding it back. (Find highly rated professional landscapers in your area.)

o. Hire a painter for a small project - $736

Sometimes you just need to give yourself a treat by treating yourself to a stress-free home improvement project. Hiring a professional painter to really do a number on the walls of your favorite room can brighten your mood and brighten your interior decorating. (Find highly rated professional painters in your area.)

o. Install a whole house fan - $706

An incredible resource for supplementary cooling that will aid an undersize or ailing air conditioning unit. Using only 10 percent of the power of conventional air conditioners, these fans will pull in large quantities of cool air during the morning and evening hours, while pushing warm air out through the attic. (Find highly rated professional A/C technicians in your area.)

o. Bathtub refacing - $690

Assuming that cracked or corroded tubs must be replaced, many homeowners fail to realize the potential for bathtub refacing. In fact, some refacing techniques, such as fiberglass inlays, have gotten so good that the refaced tub is actually stronger than the original, for a fraction of the replacement cost. (Find highly rated bathtub refacing contractors in your area.)

o. Roof repair - $558

Whether it's warped shingles, granule loss, or spots on the ceiling, any sign of roof damage will make this repair a top priority for your home improvement budget. Know that you may need to choose between repairs. Some roof patches may cost a couple hundred bucks and last for only a year. More substantive repairs may add many years to your roof and cost a thousand dollars or more. (Find highly rated roofing professionals in your area.)

o. Drywall repair - $539

With the size of the damaged or missing drywall, so goes the difficulty of the repair. Minor holes can be tackled by homeowners, but to fix anything much larger than the size of a quarter takes a good amount of skill, patience, or a little of both. The cost of drywall repair can surprise many people, but it's worth it for a seamless patch job. (Find highly rated drywall professionals in your area.)

o. Wood fence repair - $520

Replacing warped or missing panels will return your wood fence to a respectable condition, but the most important part of the repair may be the staining process that stops further deterioration. It may feel like a lot of money, but it's better than replacement (average cost: $2,858) or losing this landscaping feature altogether. (Find highly rated fencing professionals in your area.)

Final Tip: If none of these projects address your home's needs, you may just want to plan for a future home improvement project. Talk to several contractors about what areas do need work, what size budget you must create, and how soon the project needs to begin to prevent more serious issues.

Want more home improvement ideas? Here are some AOL Real Estate guides to help you:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Home Improvement Mistakes: How to Avoid and Fix

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-19T16:52:00 00:00

Home improvements can be like tattoos. Both are high-risk, high-reward decisions. And they both hinge on picking the right one the first time, because some hold up better than others. And if you make a mistake, both tattoos and home improvements can be darned expensive to remove. So, what are these projects, and how do you create a positive outcome? Take a look:

Proceed With Caution: Permanent Home Improvements

o. Concrete staining: Concrete acid staining is perhaps the most direct example of an irreversible home improvement. Although it can be applied with breathtaking effects, the acid stain seeps into the concrete, making it impossible to remove and difficult to camouflage. With garage flooring and outdoor patios or driveways, you need to take your time choosing the staining pattern because you won't get a second chance. You have a little more leeway with basement flooring, where you may be able to install tile or laminate over the concrete, sometime down the road. (Find highly rated concrete contractors in your area.)

o. Tile and epoxy grout: When planning for new tile, your choice of grout is often one of the toughest home improvement decisions to make. Epoxy grout offers unmatched longevity, but it's darned near impossible to remove, a problem if the tile is laid poorly. Plus, a high-quality cement grout and sealer can still last several decades, so why take the risk? On the other hand, if your tile contractor swears that the tile will look immaculate, who doesn't want worry-free maintenance for the future? If you're confident in your choice of tile, and your contractor is willing to put guarantees into the contract, epoxy grout could be a worthy choice. (Find highly rated bathroom contractors in your area.)

o. Tree removal: If your tree is terminal through disease or severe damage, that's one thing, but to voluntarily cut down a tree as a home improvement can be a big mistake. For one, it may be illegal, depending on where you live, but it may also have a negative impact on your property value. Many homebuyers are also tree lovers, and might appreciate the shade (and as a result -- energy savings) that a tree provides. But, most of all, trees can't be replaced. Tree transplants are nifty fixes, but they won't have the deep root systems that allow trees to survive through future disease and calamity. If you don't like to rake leaves, invest in a leaf-blower or pay a lawn maintenance company, instead of a tree removal service. (Find highly rated professional landscapers in your area.)

o. Wall cavities: Tearing down the walls for a bathroom or kitchen remodel home improvement? Replacing drywall in an area with water damage? Take a look at your wall cavities to see if your home needs insulation, pipes, electrical wiring or ductwork. Installing new drywall without evaluating the possibility of improvements within your wall cavities is kind of like paying a tattoo artist $250 to put on a wash-off tattoo. (Find highly rated drywall professionals in your area.)

No Sweat: Reversible Home Improvements

There are also quite a few home improvement mistakes that may seem like enormous problems but have a pretty easy fix. Of course, this doesn't mean that these projects should be installed without regard to quality, but when problems do arise, they may not be fatal. Here's a list of some of the common projects -- big and small -- that fit into this category.

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o. For carpet: Burns and many stains may be permanent, but the carpet itself usually isn't. Hopefully you had the foresight to save spare carpet runs, but even if you didn't, the manufacturer may still have the carpet in stock. Alternately, carpet pros can cut out a piece of carpet from an inconspicuous corner to replace the stain or burn, then use a "close match" in the corner of the room. (Find highly rated flooring contractors in your area.)

o. For decks: You may have let your wood deck go too long without sealant, causing fading, warping or other deterioration. As long as the deck framing and support structures remain in solid condition, there is a good chance that you can lay composite deck tiles on top of the old wood planks and create what looks like a brand new deck for a fraction of the cost. (Find highly rated deck and porch professionals in your area.)

o. For asphalt roofing: Keep an eye on your roof. Once a leak or other signs of initial damage occur, contact a roofing contractor. Similar to wood decks, you may be able to install a new layer of asphalt right on top of the old and, with a little luck, nearly double the life of your roof. (Find highly rated roofing professionals in your area.)

o. For wood cabinets: Homeowners who complete kitchen or bathroom remodels may find their wood cabinets don't match their new decorating schemes. If you have solid wood cabinets, resist the urge to replace them. Imitation wood is cheap and cheaply made; replacement solid wood is prohibitively expensive. Rather, have your light wood cabinets refinished to a darker color. Paint over your dark wood cabinets or have a light-colored wood veneer applied on top of the original cabinets. (Find highly rated professional painters in your area.)

Final tip: With any home improvement project, it's just as important to evaluate the long-term consequences as the immediate impact on your home and daily routine. This understanding can allow you to creatively plan for the future, troubleshooting phantom problems while keeping open additional options.

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Smart Upgrades Landlords Should Consider

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-19T16:51:00 00:00

Too many landlords don't want to put in the time, research, and upfront costs to renovate their rental properties. And it's their loss: Improvements could earn them money. But the problem has gotten worse over the last 20 years: Annual maintenance expenditures have decreased 35 percent since the late 1980s. No doubt, renovations require careful planning, but because you're looking for crowd-pleasers, landlords can stick to conventional renovation choices and interior design. Better yet, contractors may offer landlords a lower bid on renovations for a vacant rental properties, because they won't have to work around residents.

If you're a landlord, here are some good reasons to consider renovating a rental property:

Renovations that increase rental income

You may be thinking about renovating a property so you can increase rent, while adding resale value of your investment property. It's a solid idea; just make sure to keep an eye toward cost-effective choices that will create a lasting space without exorbitant costs. The renovations most likely to increase rent value follow the same logic as increasing property value in general. Start with the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.

o. Bedrooms. Adding on to the floor plan to complete a bedroom addition may not make much financial sense. But if you can remodel a basement, convert an attic, or convert some other space into an extra bedroom, you may have a can't-miss project. (Find highly rated professional general contractors in your area.)

o. Bathrooms. You may have one of those properties that renters seem to love at first, but then walk away from because of the "bathroom situation." Three-bedroom, one-bath units are notorious for this. Worse, several renters who don't mind sharing a single bathroom may fit into the typical "frat-guys" mold, a scary proposition for any landlord. (Find highly-rated professional plumbers in your area.)

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The hidden value of renovations for landlords

It's impossible to know for sure, but renovations can suppress future maintenance costs by attracting tenants who will take better care of the property. In this way, renovations will help pay for themselves, even if it turns out that you can't raise the rent while keeping the unit filled. Indeed, many landlords aren't out to maximize income from rental properties so much as minimize the headaches associated with dealing with tenants. If this sounds like you, consider these renovations as top priorities:

o. Kitchens. Visually appealing, high-function kitchens are keys to attracting low-maintenance tenants. Find someone who loves to cook and show them the kitchen. It's by no means a guarantee, but the tenant who takes care of the kitchen is more likely to take good care of the rest of the property. (Find highly rated kitchen professionals in your area.)

o. Flooring. Hardwood flooring, in particular, should generate enthusiasm among prospective tenants, but laminate flooring is probably a safer bet. Not only will hard-surface flooring attract tenants, but you can advertise the property as pet-friendly, with less risk of floor damage. (Find highly-rated flooring professionals in your area.)

Location, location, location

No property is renovated in a vacuum. It doesn't matter whether you're putting a property on the real estate market or trying to set a rent price. Not only do you need to take a look around at what other landlords are charging, you should consider the neighborhood at large. If you've made the calculation that the location of your rental unit presents limited opportunities to add property value, it's probably best to stick to exterior improvements.

o. Home Exteriors. Homes don't fall apart because of outdated flooring or a limited number of bathrooms. Prolonged neglect to roofing, siding, and foundations is another thing. Simply making sure that the building will continue standing indefinitely may be the best investment. Neighborhoods do tend to go through cycles....(Find highly-rated professionals in your area for exterior home improvements.)

o. Windows and Doors. Windows account for 20 to 25 percent of energy loss, while drafty doors can add another 10 to 15 percent. Showing that your unit is relatively airtight with reasonable utility bills will make it more attractive to any tenant. (Find highly-rated window and door contractors in your area.)

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Surprise Home Buying Wisdom

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-18T15:57:00 00:00

It's not hard to get advice when you're in the market for a new home, but often real estate trends and quick tips get passed off as a gospel in this "historic" housing market. And there are a few -- let's call them inconvenient truths of home buying -- that you often won't hear because they don't apply to everybody.

But what you need as a homebuyer is a perspective on the housing market, as it applies to your housing and investment needs. To provide some balance in home buying advice, we've compiled some tidbits that often are exaggerated (and others that get downplayed) to give you perspective in your search for a new home.

Three Things to Consider

o. The danger of brand-new subdivisions: For decades now, people have misunderstood the risk of these homes, especially during the early stages of development. The initial housing starts may be spacious, luxury homes selling for $400,000. But demographics are destiny: When the pool of affluent homebuyers dries up, the builder may start building

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$200,000 homes, dragging down your property value in the process. Yes, a brand-new home will be energy-efficient and virtually maintenance-free for several years, but at what cost? Often, it's better to sink $75,000 into remodeling an older home in a well-established neighborhood. (Find highly rated remodeling contractors in your area.)

o. Versatility: One of the more creative ways that people have avoided foreclosure is to take on roommates, especially people who bought bigger homes than they could handle. Another common scenario involves recent college grads moving back in with their parents. Buying an oversize home may not be the best course of action, but looking at homes with versatility is a good idea. Some of the possibilities might include rooms with multiple roles: home theater, home office, home gym, etc. A flexible design might allow you to take in additional residents, whether you need extra income, a space for extended family members, or a live-in health aide. (Find highly rated designers in your area.)

o. Planning for the future: Your home can act as a financial investment in many ways other than appreciating within the housing market. A home design that's easily convertible into an aging-in-place dwelling (wide hallways, no stairs, large bathrooms) can save the family estate tens of thousands of dollars by postponing the need for institutionalized care, while improving your quality of life in the twilight years. It's never too soon to think about aging-in-place. Even if you do move, a home that accommodates people with limited mobility will have a wider home-buying audience when it comes time to sell.

Three "Truths" to Reconsider

o. Mortgage rates: Every last expert seems to be talking about rising mortgage rates. It's the easiest advice in the world to give. Mortgage rates, at historic lows, have had nowhere to go but up. Yes, mortgage rates are favorable right now. Yes, they're going up. On the other hand, the rates aren't going to double overnight, nor are home values. There is no reason to think that you need to rush into buying a home -- especially one that's less than ideal -- with a continued surplus of available homes on the market.

o. The tax credit deadline: Many saw the April 30, 2010 deadline for a federal homebuyer tax credit as a looming countdown, after which only suckers would buy a home. In fact, where a $300,000 home is concerned, good old supply-and-demand may be a bigger factor. There's a decent chance that this deadline has thinned the herd of your home-buying competition. Imagine the home seller who couldn't move his or her property off the market as this deadline expired. It may sound ruthless, but these discouraged sellers may now be lowering their selling price.

o. Unprecedented selection: With this huge inventory of homes on the market, it should be easy to find a home, right? Not necessarily. First, buying a foreclosed or distressed property is usually not a good idea for the average homebuyer. Competing with banks and seasoned property investors over a home that you won't be allowed to inspect is plain lunacy. Second, people exaggerate this bloated inventory into an idea that they will suddenly be able to find the "perfect" home. But beware, the "perfect" home rarely exists.

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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For Sale By Owner: How to Market Your Home Sale

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-18T12:24:00 00:00

Filed under: Selling

It's hard enough to sell a house in today's market without taking a substantial loss. If you then have to skim the cream off the top to pay for a sales commission, you're digging an even deeper hole. A real estate agent is supposed to relieve the stress of selling a home, but the process of choosing an agent is its own considerable headache.

Will the realty agent charging a 6 to 7 percent commission really be able to deliver? Will the agent charging a 4 to 5 percent commission really offer a competitive advantage? There are no easy or definitive answers. But you have options -- you don't have to hire a Realtor for your home sale. We'll tell you who else to hire to help you with your "for sale by owner" (aka FSBO). And give you some tips for selling you home quickly.

Alternative real estate professionals

From social networking and online referral services to easy-access research and limitless pools of knowledge and advice, the Internet has made conducting your own home sale a more plausible scenario than ever. That said, perhaps the biggest misconception about real estate professionals is that it's an all-or-nothing proposition. You may not need to hire an agent on commission, but you don't need, nor should you try, to sell a house on your own. Here are four of the most common and valuable real estate professionals that can allow you to circumvent the need to lose a large, commission-based chunk of the final selling price.

o. Home inspectors: Many people mistakenly view home inspections as an afterthought to the home-selling process. An evaluation of your home's condition can be a valuable resource as much as a legal hoop to jump through. By identifying any systems or structures that are in danger of failure and getting them replaced upfront, you can offer a stress-free property to the market. It also makes you look like an honest FSBO dealer, an asset that should expedite the process. (Find highly rated home inspectors in your area.)

o. Home appraisers: You need to know how much you can ask for, aim for, or expect your house to sell for. In other words, you need to know roughly how much your home is worth. As such, hiring a home appraiser is a great resource for moving forward with the FSBO process. Unlike the inspection, you may want to play the appraisal closer to the vest, especially if you have reason to think you can get more for your home than the appraisal suggests. (Find highly rated home appraisers in your area.)

o. Home stagers: You probably know that it's advantageous to start cleaning out the home before you show it to prospective buyers. Small, personal items and clutter detract from the impression your home will give, in subtly damaging ways, but it's a good idea to leave the "bare bones" of a living arrangement. Home stagers know where to draw this line and how to put your home's best foot forward. If you don't want to take on this expense, you may still want to farm out some of the typical house chores. Time-consuming lawn maintenance, for example, is critical for home staging.(Find highly rated home stagers in your area.)

o. Real estate attorney: Transferring the title of a home is not the same thing as transferring the title of a motor vehicle. Most likely, you'll need to hire an attorney to make sure the legalese is in order and properly filed. That said, if both the homebuyer and seller are on the same page, you can often get this taken care of without the exorbitant fees that most people associate with extensive legal action.

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Home-selling tips and strategies

Even if you hire all four of these real estate professionals, the fees are unlikely to approach the expense of a typical real estate commission. But neither will the home sell itself, as it may with a real estate agent on the job. Here are some of the most useful FSBO tips and strategies to sell a home, especially in this unique, slumping housing market.

o. Emphasize value: Bank-owned foreclosures and short sellers will be emphasizing rock-bottom prices. Yet these properties often suffer from structural flaws, resulting from years of neglect. At auction, homes may be sold "as-is" without letting buyers even see the interior of the house. Consider offering this perspective: "Look, I know you can go down the street and find a house selling for twenty thousand less, but you may need to invest twice that in the next five years on new roofing, flooring and water damage."

o. The proof is in the paperwork: As a counterbalance, you should emphasize and show how your home has been well-cared-for. Of course, if you're going to make this point, you better be sure your home can withstand the extra scrutiny. Have the paperwork for the home inspection and improvements on hand. Prove to homebuyers that the hardwood flooring is only three years old. Show them the fine print of your roofing warranty to demonstrate that it will transfer to the new homeowner.

o. Be realistic about price. The No. 1 reason that people can't sell their home is because they're unwilling or unable to absorb losses. Understandably so. If you're in a position where you don't have to sell your home, you should think about renting the property out for a year or two in the hopes for a strong rebound in the housing market. Unfortunately, many people don't have this option. You should consider lowering your initial asking price in the hopes of generating interest and, ideally, a bidding war, but you can't expect this single and widely-advertised strategy to be a silver bullet.

These AOL Real Estate guides can help, no matter whether you choose to buy or sell:

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Get property tax help from our experts.

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Top Home Improvement Projects for Your Townhouse

Service Magic for AOL Real Estate — 2010-08-17T12:42:00 00:00

Owning a townhouse isn't for everyone. Yet, for many people who cherish nearly maintenance-free homeownership, living close to neighbors, and communal luxuries (pools, gyms, etc.), they can't imagine living anywhere else. While outsiders may think that the townhouse has a rigid floor plan with preconceived furnishings, townhouse residents are often pleasantly surprised to learn of their unit's considerable versatility and opportunity for customization.

With that in mind, here are both the limitations and the top home-improvement projects that speak to issues specific to townhouses.

Exterior Home Improvements

Homeowners' associations are notorious for their mix of cliquey, petty, and draconian obstacles. But that doesn't change the fact that, for most townhouse owners, they also have all the power. Many HOAs actually continue to own the exterior structures of the communities they govern. Thus, they are responsible for maintaining and replacing roofing and siding. The economy of scale means that they can take care of these structures more cheaply than individual owners could. If you do own this responsibility, roofing and siding options will most likely be limited to a select number of colors and materials. The truth is that even if you did have carte-blanche, sticking with the consistency of the larger community is usually the best investment, anyway. That said, if you're in good with the powers-that-be, you can usually take a few home improvement liberties such as spiffed up window shutters, front doors and trim. (Find highly rated general contractors in your area.)

Interior Home Improvements

So with most of your attention focused on home improvements on the inside, what particular wisdom can be applied to remodeling townhouses? In many respects, the principles of remodeling stay the same, while the implementation of these principles may be modified to fit the space of a townhouse. Here are some of the projects that specifically address issues common to townhouses.

Strategies for small rooms: Townhouses may have virtually the same rooms and amenities as a single-family home but on a smaller scale. Fortunately, designers and decorators have taken up the call of finding home improvements to open up these compact rooms. Don't be afraid of using corners, especially in bathrooms where corner sinks can make a small bathroom feel more spacious, or a corner stall can turn a half-bath into a makeshift full bath. Contemporary lighting, from recessed lighting to sleek wall fixtures, is a miracle waiting to happen. Buying new furniture tailored to a room's dimensions can also have a huge impact. (Find highly rated decorators and designers in your area.)

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Wallpaper removal/replacement: Wallpaper isn't dead, but old wallpaper is surely outdated and all too common within townhouses. Collages, murals, and crackle techniques (tearing up wallpaper to create imperfections and dynamic lines) have revived the possibilities for wallpaper. The downside is that these techniques are even more time-consuming than conventional wallpapering. You may decide to simply return to drywall and paint; drywall is preferred when you eventually put the unit up for sale. On the other hand, if you're looking for a way to break up the monotony of drywall but don't have the patience for modern wallpaper strategies, consider wainscoting or other wood paneling. (Find highly rated wall covering contractors in your area.)

Kitchens and basements: These areas tend to have the most appeal across different property types. Kitchens are essentially universal in their importance to the daily routine. Cabinets equal kitchen storage; counters equal food prep; appliances equal cooking and preservation. If you see room for improvement in any of these areas, it's hard to go wrong with a kitchen upgrade. Often, a lower-level basement is one of the things that set townhouses apart from condos. As such, try to design, renovate, and use this area to maximum effect. It will make your townhouse standout to potential buyers. (Find highly rated professional bathroom remodelers and basement remodelers in your area.)

Townhouses and resale value

Remarkably, when it comes to resale value for townhouses, location is even more important than it is for single-family homes. When you have to share a wall with your next-door neighbors, their daily and nightly habits are more than just a subject for your speculation. Likewise, the tight-knit cluster of residences leads to enhanced rewards for a community at peace, and heightened interpersonal tensions for a community at odds with itself. As part of a swanky, urban revival, townhouses are likely to hold their value just as well as, if not better than, single-family residences. Of course, the reverse is equally true and reputations for disquieting townhouse communities travel just as well as any other rumor.

With this in mind, whenever you invest in a major home improvement -- whether it's a single-family home, condo or townhome -- you should at least consider increased property value. Simply keeping everything up to date and in excellent condition is often the best insurance that your townhouse will retain its value, if not appreciate. People who buy townhouses often do so because they worry that an older, detached home is a money pit. You want your townhouse to act as a foil to these properties, offering turnkey, zero-maintenance convenience and peace of mind.

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