Lifestyle & Trends - Real Estate

Sticking to a budget? Tips for affordable and easy home upgrades

Living on a budget is the norm, rather than the exception, in the current economy. Whether you're trying to entice potential homebuyers or just want to give your living space a quick spruce up, here are a few tips for making a big impact in the look of your home without breaking the bank. Read More

Simple accessory switches can lighten your decor for summer days

Replacing dark accessories with brighter, lighter ones is a fast, easy way to lighten the mood in your home. Re-accessorize the right way - spend your redecorating dollars on items that will give you the most impact for the lowest monetary investment. Here are a few ideas from some home decor experts to get you started. Read More

Creative tips for selling your house in a down market

The housing market in the U.S. has done a 180. What was once one of the most booming sectors of the economy has become one of the most depressed. And while there have been glimmers of a revitalizing housing market, homeowners still need to be more creative than ever in selling their homes. Read More

Create 'curb appeal' with easy home projects

Whether you're selling your home and want the best price, or you just want to be the envy of the neighborhood, creating "curb appeal" can be very rewarding. And you're confident you know what constitutes great curb appeal - siding, windows, doors and a lawn that are all in good shape. But is that all you have to think about when it comes to curb appeal? Read More

The new ways thieves are getting into homes: What you should know now

The idea of someone breaking into your home and stealing your possessions, or worse, threatening your family, is a terrifying notion. Unfortunately, over the years, criminals expand their repertoires of techniques to get inside homes. The good news is you can make your home more secure. Thieves are clever, but, armed with the right knowledge; you can be smarter than they are. Read More

Technology makes house-hunting easier than ever

It's no secret that recent economic troubles have caused something of a "buyer's market" when it comes to real estate in the U.S. With more than 27,000,000 homes for sale as of May 2010, house hunting can be an overwhelming proposition. Read More

Luxury vinyl tile provides everyday design with durability

Natural stone and ceramic tile floors have great design, architectural and sculptural qualities. But they can be expensive, hard to clean, cold to walk on and not very durable. <br/>So imagine transforming your aging flooring with the look of rich travertine, limestone, concrete, slate or ceramic tiles, but without the cost or frailty of these lavish coverings. Read More

Ten ways to improve your home's curb appeal

If you think having great curb appeal is only important if you're trying to sell your home, think again. Your house is one of your biggest investments and making a great first impression will leave everyone - not just potential buyers - wanting to see what's inside. With 10 simple improvements, you can easily transform your home into the best looking house on the block. Read More

Lead-safe renovation - what homeowners need to know

Because some common remodeling practices can stir up lead paint and prove dangerous to a family's health, it's important for you to learn about a contractor's lead-safe practices before delving into such projects. <br/> Read More

Today's laminate floors - a 'real' wood alternative

You love the look of natural wood flooring but are afraid to install hardwood because you know the floor will take a beating from the kids, dogs and the heavy day-to-day traffic all too common in modern family life. But you don't have to sacrifice high style looks for boring sensibility when considering a new flooring option in your home - not if you choose laminate. Read More

AP ENTERTAINMENT