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February
11

As the snow starts to melt, it's time to consider some updates and ways to save yourself some money! With spring just around the corner, (we promise it will come!) here are a few home improvement ideas that you can do while you are still stuck inside. 1.     Update light fixtures and replace light bulbs: Are you tired of that brass light chandelier above the kitchen table? Go to the local hardware store and pick up a fixture that matches your current taste. Prices can be fairly inexpensive, and a new light can give a room a completely different look. Replacing light bulbs can be a small investment, but one you won't regret. Qualified Energy Star light bulbs will save more than $40 in their lifetime. They are a great way to go green and save money. Warm smiles on a wintery day 2.     Redo floors: Dreaming about hardwood floors but having nightmares about cost? You can get the look of wood with laminate. Laminate flooring can hold up against heavy traffic, water drips and the toughest stains. You won't believe the number of laminate flooring options. There are endless styles to choose from and the products are better made than ever. Laminate floors are an ideal DIY project. Most planks are designed to lock together for easy installation. Just make sure to follow special directions for sealing when they will be around water. Or go with a local expert; just be sure they are licensed, bonded and insured. 3.     Clean air conditioning units: Before the spring temperatures rise, make sure to clean coils and change filters so your system doesn't have to work as hard. Dirty filters block air flow and impair the AC's efficiency.  Whether you have central air or a window unit, keeping air filters clean can lower your electricity usage, saving you money as well. 4.     Organize those closets and storage areas: Winter is a wonderful time to go through your closets and donate unwanted items to charity. Install new shelves, drawers and clothing racks. Adding motion-sensing or push lights are also a great improvement. Not everyone feels comfortable attempting electrical work, but anyone can peel and stick a battery powered light. Remember the old phrase "a place for everything and everything in its place." If you create a place for everything, you and other members of your family will be more likely to put items and clothing away. 5.     Upgrade doors: Interior doors can add a lot of visual appeal to your home. Dark doors look more expensive and colored doors look more modern than traditional wood. Changing doorknobs is also an instant fix for outdated doors. Make sure to add these improvements to your calendar. Each project can be knocked out in a weekend. They will make your house seem fresh and you will feel good about the investments you made. When spring arrives, you will be able to relax knowing that you did some of the dirty work while it was still cold outside. For more ideas for improving your home go to RuhlHomes.com/seller_tips. 

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