Lifestyle & Trends - Real Estate

Five swimming pool myths that are all wet

From the belief that it costs too much to operate a pool to the misconception it will go unused, myths about pool ownership abound - and they likely dissuade some homeowners from making this valuable home improvement. If you've been considering adding a swimming pool to your outdoor environment, here are five common myths that simply don't hold water.

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Five questions to ask before hiring a real estate agent

Want to sell your property quickly? Looking for your dream house? Are you hoping to get the best deal possible during the complex process of buying or selling a home? With so much money - and often, emotion - at stake, going it alone is generally not the best way to reach your goals. The secret for getting exactly what you want: Work with a savvy real estate agent.

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Curb appeal: 2013's hottest home improvement trend

The busy home remodeling season is a great time for homeowners to focus on increasing curb appeal. The percentage of homeowners who feel now is a good time to spend money on home improvement has doubled since 2009, according to a recent survey among Better Homes and Gardens readers. Considering two of the top four features consumers have on their wish lists for their next home are low maintenance exteriors and a private backyard, high-performance products that come in a variety of colors, textures and designs are expected to be in high demand this year.

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Five tech tools that can help you get into a new home faster

Just 10 years ago, homebuyers would have started the purchasing process with a phone call to mortgage broker or real estate agent, a drive through a desirable neighborhood and a perusal of the classifieds. In 2013, however, buying a house is a high-tech affair, with technology making it easier than ever to find and finance the home of your dreams.

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Sell your home faster with these cost-effective staging tips

Appearances count, especially when you're trying to sell a home. Even though the housing industry experts predict this spring will be a seller's market, it's important to grab every advantage when you're trying to sell your home. Staging - decorating a house to appeal to the broadest possible range of buyers - can make the difference between a quick sale or a long, painful linger on the market.

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Lifestyle Trends