Category: HOME

The Perfect Real Estate Transaction

Dear Monty: You describe your writing as advocacy for industry reform. You also stated that technology would replace real estate agents in the future. Others have similar thoughts, but I have yet to see any of them make a dent in the industry. I am a full-time real estate agent, and I am curious to…


Useful Tips from Readers

Once again my very clever readers have reminded me that it’s the little ways we avoid spending money that add up. I hope you enjoy today’s tips as much as I have. Would you like to see your tip published in an upcoming column? Send it to me (cheapskate@unitedmedia.com) and I’ll see what I can…


How to Soften New Denim, Make Homemade Eyeglass Cleaner and More

Dear Mary: I used to buy a packet of “blue jeans softener” in a store that has since gone out of business. Added to the first washing, it would make a pair of new jeans feel like they had been stone-washed. I can no longer find anything like this. Do you have a suggestion for…


Sustain Your Sofa With Upholstery Care

By Katie Laughridge From Tribune News Service As one of the most hardworking pieces of furniture in your home, your sofa or couch deserves to be taken care of and kept clean. We’ve previously shared how to pick out a perfect piece of upholstered furniture, so this time I thought it would be helpful to…


How Can I Protect Against Home Fires in Winter?

By Paul F. P. Pogue From Ask Angi With all the commotion and activity of the holidays, don’t forget the essential steps to keep your home and family safe from fire dangers. Most home fires take place in winter. The home is more tightly sealed up, fireplaces are burning, people are doing more inside, and…


McCoy Planter Seems to Be Popular With Collectors

By Helaine Fendelman and Joe Rosson From Tribune News Service Hello Helaine and Joe: I am cleaning out my grandparent’s estate and would appreciate your input and value on this vase. It is 9 1/2 inches long and 3 1/2 inches tall and marked ” McCoy USA.” Love reading your column, B. F., Austin, Texas…


Install an Opening Acrylic Block Window

Designers have used acrylic glass block for years because it creates a striking focal point while providing a light airy feel to a room. Remodeling contractors choose block windows to replace old windows, especially where you want to bring daylight into a room like a kitchen; but also maintain privacy. While many acrylic block windows…


VIDEO: Sick Cat Picks Right Family to Ask for Help, Starting His New Life in Their Loving Home

A sick, malnourished cat living on the streets got lucky for the first time in a long time when he approached a stranger and asked for help. It was 21-year-old James David’s brother who first met Gnar, a skinny ginger tom cat, hiding under his car in late August last year and gave him food….


7 Quick Updates You Can Do Now to Prepare Your Home for the Holidays

After last year’s gatherings were largely canceled or held virtually, many of us are gearing up to host holiday guests for the first time in a while. If months of working, schooling and otherwise hunkering down at home have left your home less than guest-ready, you still have time to make some updates before the…


Should You Train Your Dog or Enroll in Obedience School?

When you get yourself a dog, you will most likely have to make some lifestyle changes to properly care for your new pet. While for some, this may prove to be a breeze, others find it quite challenging to care for a dog, particularly if their furry friend displays untoward behaviors. This article sheds light…