Category: HOME

A Slice of Happiness on Phuket Island

If the English philosopher Edmund Burke were right, if “beauty is the promise of happiness,” then this expansive oceanfront property in Thailand could be someone’s bliss. Offered by Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, the property is located within one of the world’s most exclusive resorts. This aerial photo provides a great view of the residence and a bit…


How to Painlessly Declutter and Organize Your Home in 10 Minutes

If you think organizing your home or getting your personal affairs in order requires a lot of time, you might be right. However, if you feel that you just don’t have enough time to spend on these tasks, then you’re probably wrong. All you have to do is recognize little chunks of free time throughout…


Budget Decor Ideas to Make the Most of What You Already Own

There’s no rule that says decorating has to mean buying something new. Try these tips to make the most of what you already have to dress up your space. Book it If you’re staring at a fireplace that doesn’t work and a pile of tomes you’re no longer interested in reading, tackle both by turning…


Saving Plants Over the Winter

Question: My geraniums grew really well this summer and I have some pretty ones that I want to keep for next year. How do I go about doing this? I heard that they can be dug up and hung upside down for the winter. Answer: There are several kinds of geraniums, including some that are…


Tips to Bring Light to Dark Spaces

By Cathy Hobbs From Tribune News Service No windows, few windows or little to no overhead lighting? These issues can make a room or space feel overly dark. They are especially enhanced in small rooms or spaces that traditionally lack an abundance of light, such as basements or lower levels. What are some ways to…


Six Reasons for an Agent ‘No Response’ to an Offer

Dear Monty: Our agent (buyer’s agent) presented our “as-is” full-price offer to the seller’s agent. The seller’s agent has not responded, and it’s been 72 hours. What are my options to get the seller’s agent to respond? Monty’s Answer: A critical piece of information influencing my answer is missing. What is the acceptance date? You…


Last-Minute Tricks to Do Halloween on a Budget This Year

Hear that sound? It’s the first of the major shopping holidays at the door. Halloween is the fourth most popular holiday that gets consumers to open their wallets — the kick-off to a lot of shopping before the end of the year. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent north of $10 billion on…


Install an Underdeck Ceiling

To take advantage of the space beneath a second-floor deck, consider installing an underdeck. As a ceiling to the underside of the deck it also protects the area from rain and snow. The vinyl material acts as a ceiling drainage system and creates a ground level outdoor room or useful found space for storing bicycles…


The Games Contractors Play

Among the many columns I’ve written in the 30 years since Ask the Builder came to be, this one will be unique. I think it’s important for you to know why I switched careers from being a full-time builder, remodeler and master plumber to a syndicated newspaper columnist and then video personality. It was always…


The Most Trainable Dog Breeds in The World

Do you love dogs? But can’t decide on the type of dog to get as a pet for your family? Well, this blog post will help you with that. We have compiled a list of the most trainable dog breeds in the world. Whether you’re looking for a small lap-sized pup or one that loves…