Online Features
Home Improvement
Kitchen remodeling 101: Brush up on the basics
(BPT) - In this economy, taking on a kitchen remodel can be a scary proposition. You’re probably asking yourself plenty of questions. How drastically should you change the room? Do you need to hire a professional? Can you still recoup money spent on remodeling if you sell the house? Have no fear - these six tips from S...
full story
Home harmonizing: Making outdoor entertaining areas as useful as indoors
(BPT) - The trend toward outdoor living spaces shows no signs of slowing, and the newest step in the trend is blurring the lines between outdoor and indoor spaces. Outdoor spaces are truly becoming an extension of indoors, mimicking the most useful and appealing elements of indoor spaces. The trend is rewriting how Amer...
full story
Father's Day project: Transform Dad's favorite place into his personal man cave [Infographic]
Man cave, man space, manctuary: There are many names for dad’s favorite place away from the rest of the house. This Father’s Day, give dad the ultimate gift and complete his man cave. * Step 1: ID the space Dad’s favorite hangout is likely secluded, has a lockable door and is where he stores his tools, dives into projects or just relaxes. Examples include garages, basements, dens, attics or studies. * Step 2: Clean and clear Clear out all the boxes, industrial-sized cleaning and paper pr...
full story
Smart, stylish renovations for any age
(BPT) - Most Americans over 50 want to stay in their home as they age, but few are making the renovations they need to ensure easy and comfortable living for years to come. In fact, 80 percent of people older than 50 say they would prefer to remain in their home indefinitely, according to an AARP survey. The Hartford a...
full story
DIY or DI-don't? When to do it yourself, when to hire a pro
(BPT) - When it comes to home improvement, homeowners aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty; 64 percent who plan to make improvements this year say they will do it themselves, according to an American Express Consumer Spending and Saving Report . But not all home decorating or renovating projects are suitable for the ...
full story
Go-big upgrades that can help a lingering home sell at last
(BPT) - Everyone knows spring and summer are the best months in which to sell a home. If your house has lingered on the market, you may be eager to find ways to freshen its appeal for potential buyers. Perhaps you’re even ready to go big and invest in upgrades that will improve the home’s value, curb appeal and interior...
full story
Curb appeal tips to transform your home
(BPT) - Sprucing up your home’s curb appeal brings new energy and life, not only to your property, but also to the entire neighborhood. It creates a welcoming and appealing environment, while also making it a better candidate for resale, if that’s in your near future. Curb appeal improvements can range from giving your...
full story
Dress your home to impress buyers this summer
(BPT) - Your home is a place to kick off your shoes, relax and enjoy precious time with friends and family. Nothing quite tops the feeling you get when you walk through your foyer, close the door behind you and forget the day’s troubles. But as families expand, promotions require unexpected relocations or a coveted resi...
full story
Five steps to create a customized outdoor living space with railing
(BPT) - Railing can upgrade any deck from drab to fab – adding style, as well as safety and support. In fact, it’s often the one element that truly sets your outdoor living space apart from others in the neighborhood. Here are five steps to create the perfect perimeter for your deck. 1. Find ideas at your fingertips – ...
full story
Turn over a new leaf this season with a home energy makeover
(BPT) - As the seasons change, turn over a new leaf and give your home an energy makeover. You can improve your home’s comfort while helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, a variety of compatible technologies are available to...
full story
Tips for extending your home into your patio
(BPT) - In warmer weather, patios transform into the ultimate gathering space for backyard barbecues, reading, relaxing or even exercising. These outdoor rooms become an extension of the house, seamlessly merging the outdoors inside and vice versa. This summer, many homeowners will tackle revamping the home to expand t...
full story
DIY gifts for guys
(BPT) - Show the man in your life how much he is appreciated, not just for Father’s Day, but 365 days a year. Choosing the perfect gift for that special guy can sometimes feel like a challenge. If he enjoys fixing things around the house and tackling home improvement projects – big or small – look no further for the per...
full story

Online Features

Celebrate the dairy days of summer by keeping products cool and fresh
(BPT) - Nothing says summer like dairy products from the number one dairy state, California. Fro...
full story
One size doesn't fit all in reproductive health
(BPT) - Every woman knows that in the world of fashion, there’s no such thing as “one size fits ...
full story
Speedy recipes for a flavor-filled summer
Summertime is filled with fun activities from local festivals to neighborhood parties and vacati...
full story
More Online Features