Tag: Ask the Expert

Q. What does it mean when people talk about the ‘livability’ of a space? A. People want their homes to be beautiful, but they have to live in their rooms. My clients sit on their...

Dear Expert: I just bought a new home and need new furniture, but I have a few pieces I would like to keep. I’m nervous that an interior designer is going to tell me...

Dear expert: What does it mean to “stream” audio and video? A. It means you don’t need a disc anymore! Today you can buy an Internet-enabled device, like a networked Blu-ray disc player, Apple TV...

Dear expert: How can I best use stone or brick to create curb appeal and update my home’s exterior? A. Masonry products—brick and stone—are traditionally used as structural elements in construction. Even if our homes...

Dear Expert: How (and why) would you recommend I shop for the best landscaping price? A. Choosing a professional landscaping firm is like going to a nice restaurant for a steak dinner. Instead of buying...

Dear Expert: A couple we know hired an architect and by the end of their project they felt that the design they received was what their architect wanted—and not what they, the clients, wanted....

Dear Expert: My lake cabin has been in the family for generations. I’m thinking about remodeling, but I’ve heard since it’s located only 50 feet from the shoreline, I won’t be allowed to. Is...

Dear Expert: When it comes to swimming pools, what’s better—vinyl or concrete? A: We get asked this question quite often. Vinyl has improved immensely over the past five years to compete with the look and...

Dear Expert: We are planning to remodel our upper level and create a master suite; this will require moving several walls and adding an additional bathroom. Later, we would like to finish the lower...

Dear Expert: Why should I “buy up” in my furniture pieces? A. When you don’t “buy up” on your furniture pieces, you end up replacing them sooner than if you had invested right the first...