Crystal Valentine, Realtor

04/25/2026

In Scotland, painting a front door red announces that the owners are mortgage-free. In early American tradition, it was a welcoming sign to weary travelers that the homes was a safe place to rest. Would you add this bright pop of color to your home's entrance?

04/24/2026

There’s nothing like a fresh coat of paint to give your home a fresh, new look when prepping your home for sale. Check out these tips for getting the job done right.

Before you pick up that paintbrush or roller, do yourself a favor and study up on the types of paint, the materials you’ll need to do a good job and the techniques required to make your painted surfaces look like you hired a pro. Types of paint. Paint falls into two basic types: water-based and oi...

04/22/2026

Major heating and air conditioning emergencies can be avoided with regular maintenance. Follow these tips to keep things running in tip-top shape.

What can you do to ensure your HVAC systems will be there when you need it most? Here are a few tried-and-true tips for homeowners.

04/20/2026

FHA loans help many financially challenged buyers achieve the goal of homeownership. But to protect lenders and buyers, the agency has minimum standards for the property’s condition. Here’s what you need to know before you begin your home search.

The FHA accommodating lending standards help financially challenged Americans to achieve the dream of homeownership. What are these requirements?

04/18/2026

Does your fantasy bathroom include a fireplace?

04/17/2026

If selling your home, make sure to remove all evidence of pets before showings - inside and out. Buyers don't want to see or smell your fur babies during (or especially after) they visit! Here's how to make a plan for your pets.

When putting your home up for sale, it’s crucial to make a plan for your pets. While prospective buyers may love their own pets, they don’t want to see -- or smell -- yours when touring your home. Here are a few ideas for keeping your pet’s presence low profile. Arrange for help. Boarding your...

04/15/2026

Umbrella insurance policies protect you from catastrophic liability claims. What is an umbrella policy, and do you need one?

Your insurance agent may have recommended you add an umbrella policy to your homeowners or auto insurance policy. How can it protect you?

04/12/2026

You may love the aesthetics of a pedestal tub, but adding one can be costly. Do you think it's worth the investment?

04/11/2026

One great way to give your home an appealing update before listing is to clean and re-stain any exterior decks. This article will guide you through the process of this weekend project.

Wood decks need periodic refinishing to extend their finish and texture for many years to come. Here’s how to restore your deck’s beauty.

04/08/2026

If your neighbor’s tree falls onto your house or car, whose insurance is responsible? Check out our tutorial for the answer.

To paraphrase an ancient riddle, if a tree falls on your house or car, it definitely makes a sound. But whose insurance pays for the damage?

04/04/2026

Don't you just love the skylight incorporation into this super shower?

04/03/2026

You may be enticed to remodel that unused porch into an indoor sunroom, but consider that you likely won't get a return on that investment when selling. Here are some more renovations you may want to avoid.

Before jumping into a home remodeling project, think hard about the reasons behind your proposed renovations. If an anticipated big payoff at resale time is one of your top priorities, you might want to reconsider. Here are a few of the biggest home improvement losers: