Resources and Services
Realty.com is your source for all kinds of helpful information about buying, selling, or owning your home.
Consumer Guides
Paint Basics
Interior paints: Latex-based paints are used for most interior paint jobs. Latex paints come in a variety of colors, and you can clean up using water. Flat or low-gloss finishes work best for rooms that get a minimal amount of wear. Consider a glossier finish…
Consumer Guides
Safe and Practical Living in the Home
Q: I was told to always check references when looking at contractors to do home improvements. But I wonder if it’s worth the trouble when I know the contractor is going to hand pick the references. Is reference checking effective? A: Reference checking…
Design Ideas
Asphalt Shingles: The Wood and Tile Alternative
Years ago, most homes were built with either wood shake, slate or clay roofs. These materials were very durable and handsome when installed. Over time, roofing manufacturers developed less expensive options to these traditional roofing materials. The result was asphalt roofing shingles that sometimes detracted…
Consumer Guides
Install Wall Coverings
Take a look at those stark white walls in your home—what a wonderful opportunity for expressing your personal style and creativity. Wallpapers and fabrics in myriad patterns can transform an entire room or a small area into a warm, inviting space that makes a statement.…
More Popular Entries
Additions & Remodels
Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Details Make Home Offices Work
Reinvent Your Home
Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors
Condominiums
Glossary of Real Estate Terms
House Buying Mistakes
Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Remove Rust From Water
Tip: Cleaning Dishwasher Stains
Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Architect
Carpentry & Cabinets
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Steel vs. Wood Framing
Reface Cabinet
Cleaning Services
Breathing Better in Your Home
Tip: Cleaning Fireplace Burns
Choosing a Maid Service
Concrete, Brick & Stone
Specialty Finishes for Concrete Patios and Other Flatwork
Installing Masonry Flatwork
Pouring Concrete Driveway or Walkway
Consumer Guides
Conventionally Framed Home Builder
Avoiding Fraudulent Contractors
How to Buy Roofing
Design Ideas
Skylights
Add a Hot Tub to Your Deck
Stylish Entry
Electrical, Telephone & Data
While You’re Away
Generator Repair
Illuminate Your Kitchen
Expert Advice
Window and Door Solutions
Refinishing Hardwood Flooring
Moisture Build-up on Windows
Flooring
Carpet Types
Damaged Tiles
Ceramic Tile
Handyman Services
The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Find a Handyman for Small Repairs
What Happened to the Handyman?
Heating & Cooling
Understanding Boiler Radiator Systems
Installing Central Heating
Checklist: Cold Weather Survival Tips
Home Construction
Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Timber Framed Homes
Understanding Pre-manufactured and Kit Homes
Landscape, Decks & Fences
Landscape Design
Using a Tree Stump Removal Service
Find a Garden Hose
Moving & Storage
Checklist: Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Checklist: Increase Curb Appeal
Checklist: Increase the Potential Sale Price of Your Home
Other Services
Furniture Renovation
Finding a Welder
Add a Hot Tub to Your Deck
Painting & Staining
Exterior Painting
Quality Paint Jobs
Planning for House Painting
Plumbing
Install a Water Heater
Install a Solar Water Heater
Planning Small Plumbing Installation
Quick Tips
Tip: Basic Bathroom Remodeling Tips
Tip: Repair Your Own Roof
Tip: Radon Testing
Roofing, Siding & Gutters
Ventilation is Key to How Long Your Roof Will Last
Tip: Roof Leaks
How to Buy Roofing
SP Feature Article
The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services
Walls & Ceilings
Understanding Plaster
Drywall Panels and Sheets
Drywall Installation Techniques
Windows & Doors
Window and Door Solutions
The U-factor of Thermal Replacement Windows
Security Bar Install
