“While enjoying all Fourth of July Celebrations - ponder this - Everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom. Albert Einstein" ”
Suzy's Tips
were designed with you in mind . . | Tip of the Month for April: Keep exhaust fans clean to optimize their effciency. Vacuum bathroom fan grilles and clean or replace kitchen range hood filters. Keeping the hood free of cooking grease also deters stovetop fires.
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In working with so many homeBuyers and Sellers over the years - I have viewed a lot of homes - homes of all types. Plus being in the home building and renovation business for over a decade - I've had "hands on" experience with plenty of home improvement projects.
I've also talked with countless Home Buyers and listened to the things they like and the things they don't like when considering a move.
That's why I'm offering some of my own personal tips to a few of the same questions I've heard over and over.
The top 3 things that add value to your home.
1) De-clutter. You've heard it many times but it's true. Less is more. You can make your home seem larger just by getting rid of stuff. You'll feel better too. Follow the "6 month rule". If you haven't used in the last 6 months - you probably don't need it.
2) A fresh coat of paint will perk up any room. It's inexpensive, it's fast, it's easy and YOU can do it! Have fun with all the new bold colors that are in style now.
3) A great front door and entry way can make a great "first" impression.
What does your front door say about you?
It should bid your family and guests a nice friendly welcome. Your front door and the surrounding area should be warm and friendly, colorful and clean. This can be achieved easily with a few simple touches - perhaps a new Welcome Mat - a few pots of flowers or seasonal wreath and if necessary . . . . . a brand new door. Many of us enter our homes through a garage or side entry - so we often lose site of the front door. Try going to your front door and pretend you're a first time visitor. What do you see? | 
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What's the most important room in your home?
Yes, this could be a trick question. Every home and its occupants are different. What room do you find yourself spending the most time in? Do you tend to gather in the family room - at the breakfast bar or at the table? Maybe you love your sun porch. Whatever room you find yourself in the most is the room that should get the most attention if you're planning a Home Improvement project. 
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And if you're planning to market your home - tell your Realtor about your favorite room and be sure to emphasize it.When it comes to home improvement projects - what can you do yourself?
With all the do-it-yourself programs, classes and books out - you can do just about anything yourself! But the first thing you have to ask yourself is - do I have the time?
| If you're just going to paint a bedroom - you can probably get the job done in a weekend. I recommend using a quality paint that will cover evenly with one coat - and please - don't get paint on the woodwork - that looks so tacky! If you don't have a steady hand for cutting in around the trim work - use that blue "painters" tape and take the time to mask off places that you don't intend to paint. |  |
 | Now if you're considering a new deck or patio - you may want to call in an expert. If you just need to spruce up your deck - get a good stain and have at it. I've done this very project myself in a weekend. The key is to have all your materials on hand before you start. |
If you have a home improvement question that isn't covered here - simply go to www.myhomeimprovement.com and ask The Experts.
