9 Ways to Increase Daylighting to Fend Off Seasonal Affective Disorder

Published: December 21, 2011

Adding skylights, solar light tubes, windows, and other means of daylighting can brighten your winter and help alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

How to Help Your Appliances Last Longer

By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Published: December 20, 2011

What’s your oldest appliance? Tell us about your longest-lasting appliance and get tips to help your other appliances last longer.

10 Christmas Light Tips to Save Time, Money, and (Possibly) Your Life

By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Published: December 9, 2011

Here´s how to light up your Christmas light display safely and economically.

Low-Cost Kitchen Makeover Inspiration from Rachael Ray

By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Published: December 6, 2011

A $30 roll of faux stainless steel foil can give your kitchen the lift it needs to sparkle during the holidays.

Squash and Carrot Stew

Serves 6

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup chopped onion
3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup water or vegetable stock
1 14 ½-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 lemon, juiced
3 cups cubed butternut squash, peeled and seeded
2 cups cubed carrots
¼ cup chopped cilantro

Directions:

Solar Christmas Lights: Should You Make the Switch?

By: Alyson McNutt English

Published: December 1, 2011

Solar Christmas lights don´t cost anything to operate, but the high purchase price might not add up to savings.

Why it Pays to Use a Buyer's Agent

By: FOXmls.com

Published: December 1, 2011

These days, a click of the mouse can open a world of dream homes to you. Get paid to have a Buyer's Agent.

7 Tips for Surviving the Holiday Road Trip

By: FOXmls.com

Published: December 1, 2011

The holidays are a time of candy canes, presents, and, of course, long car trips to visit family and friends across the country.

Surviving a road trip can be a challenge even for adults - but with kids? Well, you just have to prepare ahead. Following are some tips to get you started:

Simple Food Ideas for a Jolly Holiday Season

By: FOXmls.com

Published: December 1, 2011

It's difficult to believe that the holidays are upon us once again, but it's time to start the preparations. You can make this year's festive season stress-free and memorable with some simple food ideas.

How to Sell Your Home Quickly

By: FOXmls.com

Published: December 1, 2011

If you've just purchased your dream home and have to sell it because you’ve been transferred to another city or you’re overmortgaged and sinking fast, there are a few things you should not do.

6 Tips for Terrific Holiday Lights

By: HouseLogic.com

Published: December 1, 2011

Here are six easy ways to get great Christmas tree lights.

Christmas Lights

By: HouseLogic.com

Published: November 30, 2011

Make Your Own ´Star Trek´ Pocket Doors

By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Published: November 30, 2011

U.K. geek shows you how to build automatic doors like the ones on the Starship Enterprise. Space saver, anyone?

Window Privacy: Solutions that Don’t Block Natural Light

By: Jan Soults Walker

Published: November 28 2011

Can you wave at your neighbor while you’re brushing your teeth? These easy-to-apply options for windows create much-needed privacy but still let in plenty of daylight.

Holiday Lights Gone Out? There´s a Recycling Program for That

By: Dona DeZube

Published: November 18, 2011

When the glow goes from your holiday lights, don´t chuck them in the trash can; look for a program that recycles them — or better yet, a program that pays you to recycle them. Then, you can use your cash to buy new LED holiday lights, which can use 90% less energy than incandescent holiday lights.

Skylight Installation and Costs — Plus Tips to Get the Job Done Right

By: Dave Toht

Published: November 17, 2011

A skylight magically transforms interior space with cascading light, but the costs of installation might outweigh the advantages.

Tips to Save Your Storm-Damaged Trees

By: Dona DeZube

Published: November 17, 2011

Don’t assume your storm-damaged tree needs to be cut down. Trees can easily bounce back if you follow these tips for pruning and storm protection.

Solar Tubes Beat Traditional Skylights for Low-Cost Daylighting

By: Dave Toht

Published: November 10, 2011

Get the natural light that skylights provide — but with less cost and less hassle — by installing solar tubes instead.

Baked Chicken Dijon

Serves 4

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
4 slices toasted bread
½ cup fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

Buying a Home? What an Agent Can Do For You

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 1, 2011

Thanks to the Internet, virtual tours and REALTOR.com, it's easier than ever to locate prospective properties when searching for real estate. But before you try to go it alone, it's essential to understand the other advantages real estate agents bring to the table.

Essential Advise to Help You Plan Your Perfect Party

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 1, 2011

Whether you are planning a barbeque or a sophisticated soiree, these tips will help you create a get-together that everyone will enjoy:

Avoiding Vacation Hassles With These 4 Travel Tips

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 1, 2011

Travel troubles come in all shapes and sizes - from natural disasters to sickness or schedule changes. The following tips will help you minimize the impact of any problems:

Seven Ways to Spend Your Renovation Buck

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 1, 2011

Renovating your home is all about adding value to the property. But it can be a jungle out there. Following are seven ways to maximize the return on your renovation investment so that you see a payback and not a loss when you sell:

Real Estate Resolutions: Tips for Homebuyers

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 1, 2011

Planning to buy? Preparation is the key to getting the best deal when shopping for a new home. Following are some tips to help you get started:

An Affordable Vacation with a Difference

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 1, 2011

Thinking about hitting the highway or flying somewhere for a bit of rest and relaxation? Why not consider a volunteer vacation instead?

How a 'Life Audit' Can Help Your Resolutions Stick

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 1, 2011

It's the time of year to make plans and set a few goals. However, despite the best of intentions the majority of resolutions fail to germinate. Following are three ways to make sure you stick to your resolutions:

Real Estate Resolutions: Tips for Sellers

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 1, 2011

When a new year starts, many people resolve to lose weight, give up smoking and spend more time with the family. Others add selling the house to their list of resolutions. Following are eight tips to help you decide whether or not to sell, and how to go about it:

Chicken Rice Corn Casserole

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups milk
1 ½ teaspoons salt
3 cups cooked white rice, cooled
2 cups shredded chicken breast
1 10-ounce package frozen corn, thawed
3 tablespoons minced onion
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon black pepper
paprika

Directions:

Protect Yourself and Your Home from Flooding

By: Gwen Moran

Published: September 7, 2011

Few places in the country are considered free from flooding, so protect your home and family.

Secrets to Buying Distressed Properties

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 1, 2011

The media is filled these days with news about distressed properties. Following is a tutorial on distressed properties to help you separate some of the fact from fiction: Distressed Properties Defined: Contrary to popular opinion, distressed properties are not always in bad shape. In fact, the term "distressed" has less to do with the condition of the house than it does with the status of the mortgage. Basically a distressed property is one that the bank has foreclosed or for which the current mortgage is worth more than what the owners are able to ask when selling.

How to Meditate...Even if You Think You Can't

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 1, 2011

The everyday hustle and bustle of modern life leaves little time for reflection, much less meditation. Yet researchers have determined that downtime actually increases retention of new information and assists in productivity.

How to Sell Your Home Fast in a Troubled Economy

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 1, 2011

Whether you are relocating, purchasing a new property or simply needing to move ahead, it's sometimes necessary to sell a home fast. Unfortunately, that is easier said than done during a buyer's market.

Butterscotch Poached Pears

Serves 6

Ingredients:

3 cups dry white wine
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 strip lemon peel
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 whole cinnamon stick
4 whole cloves
6 firm ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc)
1 1/4 cup butterscotch sauce, store-bought or homemade

Directions

Hidden Dangers After Flood: Check Your Fireplace and HVAC

By: Dona DeZube

Published: September 1, 2011

Damage from rainwater and flooding post-natural disaster can mean wrecked siding, soaked drywall, and carpets made of mud. But less obvious damage may lurk inside your home in fireplaces, furnaces, and appliances.

Consumer Reports Shines a Light on the Best CFL and LED Bulbs

By: HouseLogic.com

Published: September 1, 2011

Consumers have better choices and more savings with the newest lightbulbs.

Why Behind-the-Scenes Work Is Key to Selling a Property

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 1, 2011

Anyone can put a "For Sale" sign on a property, but an experienced real estate process makes all the difference when it comes to marketing and promoting a property. Following are some examples of what goes on behind the scenes in promoting a property:

How to Make the Airport a More Pleasant Experience

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 1, 2011

From extensive security checks to lost luggage, it's no wonder millions of Americans list a trip to the airport right up there with a visit to the dentist.

Fortunately, with a bit of planning and preparation it's possible to make your next trip nearly painless - if not downright pleasant.

Easy Ways to Replace Those 'Bad for You' Foods

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 1, 2011

Learning what to eat is just as important as learning what to avoid.

Eat the wrong foods and chances are you will undermine all attempts to control your appetite.

Eat the right foods and you might be surprised at how easy it is to give up even the worst habits.

Following are the leading culinary culprits that leave you wanting more, as well as some easy replacements sure to satisfy:

How It Pays to 'Think Forward' When Buying

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 1, 2011

If you're looking to buy a home that you can live in forever, you should consider future-proofing.

Rum Orange Chicken Kebabs

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

2/3 cup dark rum
1/3 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2-3 garlic cloves, minced Salt and pepper to taste
4-5 skinless, boneless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
Chopped cilantro, optional
Orange wedges, optional

Directions

Thinking of Buying a Rural Getaway? Three Vital Tips

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 1, 2011

For many, the dream of owning a rural "home away from home" is something that began in childhood.

How to Overcome the Perils of Perfectionism

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 1, 2011

They say practice makes perfect, but it can also lead to a bit of anxiety or even a little neurosis if not properly managed.

Anxiety, in fact, is just one of the perils associated with perfectionism.

Following are three quick tips to help you practice the positive aspects of perfectionism without the pitfalls:

A World of Discovery...From Your Computer

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 1, 2011

Online learning isn't just for college students anymore. There are plenty of courses and resources available. Following are some examples:

How to Pick Out Your Perfect Home

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 1, 2011

When you find your dream home, it's only natural for your heart to beat a little faster. But you still need to get the best value for your dollar. Following are six ways to make you a happy and savvy homebuyer:

Baked Chicken Dijon

Serves 4

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons Dijon mustard
4 slices toasted bread
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

How the MLS Saves Sellers Time, Energy and Stress

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 1, 2011

Often the best way for an owner to deal with this issue is to have a lawyer draw up the paperwork after the rough details have been worked out with a potential buyer.

How to Tell Stories That Your Audience Will Love

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 1, 2011

Today, the ability to effectively communicate an idea or concept through the age-old art of storytelling remains an important skill for business leaders.

Three Ways to Banish Burnout in the Office

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 1, 2011

Stress, long hours, career insecurity and the general day-to-day grind can exact a toll on any employee. But there are ways to avoid burnout. Following are some tips to help you thrive - rather than barely survive - the everyday demands of work:

Rum Orange Chicken Kebabs

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, cut into chunks
1 small red pepper, sliced
Handful green beans
Handful broccoli
1 cup hot chicken stock
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp corn flour
2 cups steamed basmati rice to serve

Directions:

How to Choose the Right Home Inspector

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 1, 2011

If you're hiring a home inspector prior to signing off on a piece of property, there are a few things you might want to keep in mind.

Buying a House at Foreclosure Auction is Risky Business

By: By: Marcia Jedd

Published: May 18, 2011

You can buy a home at a significant discount at a foreclosure auction, but you´ll face a host of challenges. Don´t get burned; be solutions-ready.

Water Damage: 8 Ways to Dry Out and Move On

By: Caroline Mayer

Published: April 28, 2011

Take steps to dry out quickly in order to mitigate water damage and save your possessions.

10 Ways to Prevent Costly Mold Damage to Your Home

By: Karin Beuerlein

Published: March 16, 2011

Fixing mold damage is an expensive and time-consuming home repair. But you can save time and money by implementing these 10 ounces of prevention.

What Your Remodeling Contract Should Say

By: Oliver Marks

Published: March 11, 2011

Review your remodeling contract carefully and adjust it to make sure it protects you in terms of payments, work schedules, and project specifications.

8 Solutions to Common Wet-Basement Problems

By: Jeanne Huber

Published: March 9, 2011

Solving wet-basement problems is one of the most important things you can do to protect the value of your home and health of your family.

When It Pays to Do It Yourself

By: Oliver Marks

Published: March 8, 2011

Doing home improvement jobs yourself can be a smart way to save money, but choose the right DIY projects or you´ll end up paying dearly.

Home Maintenance Tasks: When to DIY and When to Hire a Pro

By: Oliver Marks

Published: March 8, 2011

Doing maintenance jobs yourself can be a smart way to save money, but choose the right DIY projects or you'll end up paying dearly.

5 Tips for Saving Energy in the Family Room

By: Jane Hodges

Published: March 8, 2011

Reduce your electricity bills by systematically purging your family room of wasteful energy practices.

Getting the Best Work from Your Contractor

By: Oliver Marks

Published: March 4, 2011

Working with a contractor takes effort and know-how in order to keep your project on time and on budget.

7 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Architect

By: Oliver Marks

Published: March 4, 2011

Hiring an architect for your remodel is an important step. Where to begin? Here are essential questions to ask candidates, and the answers they should give.

No Sweat: Programmable Thermostats Reduce Your Energy Costs

By: Les Shu

Published: February 17, 2011

Advanced programmable thermostats give you precise control over your heating and cooling, helping to reduce wasted energy.

Home Security Cameras: Peace of Mind While You’re Away

By: Les Shu

Published: February 17, 2011

Easy-to-install security cameras let you keep an eye on your home from afar, ensuring safety and security for you and your family.

Motion Sensor Lighting: Safety and Security Indoors and Out

By: Les Shu

Published: February 17, 2011

Adding motion sensor lighting in and around your house provides an automated, hands-free way to turn on lights when you need them, and off when you don’t.

Small Kitchen Space-Savers

By: Terry Sheridan

Published: January 21, 2011

Your small kitchen will gain valuable space when you downsize appliances and squeeze extra storage out of unused areas.

Small Home Storage: Maximize Your Storage Space

By: Terry Sheridan

Published: January 21, 2011

Your small home has more storage space than you think. For relatively little money but a lot of common sense and ingenuity, there´s space to be found.