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	<title>Easy Home Improvement</title>
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	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 18:02:32 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Clean – Save Time – Be Fabulous</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/clean-save-time-be-fabulous.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/clean-save-time-be-fabulous.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 18:01:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ToTo Kumiya</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cleaning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=632</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There always seem to be a number of household tasks that we might not know how to perform quite as efficiently as we would like – things such as cleaning the toaster, or getting the duvet cover back on easily. Here’s an interesting and valuable list to help simplify and expedite these sort of jobs. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p align="center"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-633" alt="Clean – Save Time – Be Fabulous" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Clean-–-Save-Time-–-Be-Fabulous.jpg" width="400" height="300" /></p>
<p>There always seem to be a number of household tasks that we might not know how to perform quite as efficiently as we would like – things such as cleaning the toaster, or getting the duvet cover back on easily.</p>
<p>Here’s an interesting and valuable list to help simplify and expedite these sort of jobs.</p>
<h2 align="center">Very Tidy Toaster</h2>
<p>First and foremost, always unplug the device before cleaning.<br />
Examine the toaster and locate the crumb drawer (in an upright toaster, usually hidden at the bottom); remove and wash in the sink with soapy water.</p>
<p>Hold the toaster firmly over the garbage and shake it until crumbs are no longer falling out.<br />
Use an old, dry toothbrush to scrub any remaining crumbs from the heating coils then give the toaster a final shake.</p>
<p>Make sure the crumb drawer is completely dry before reassembling the toaster and plugging it back into the <a href="http://www.homeauvi.com/category/kitchens">kitchen</a> wall.</p>
<p>It’s important to keep your toaster clean and free of crumbs so that it won’t become a fire hazard.</p>
<h2 align="center">Magnificent Bathroom Mirrors</h2>
<p>Use warm water and a sponge (synthetic or natural) to scrub away any obvious streaks and spots.</p>
<p>Create a solution of five parts warm water and one part white vinegar. Use crumpled newspaper to polish the mirror with the vinegar solution using big circles in a left/right – top/bottom pattern.</p>
<p>Use additional sheets of newspaper to buff and dry the bathroom medicine cabinet mirror once you&#8217;ve covered the entire surface with cleaning solution.</p>
<h2 align="center">Perfectly Clean Toilets</h2>
<p>Begin by emptying the bowl. There are two easy methods to do this – first, turn off the water using the supply knob just to the side and almost behind the toilet and then flush, or, second, use gloves and a small container to bail the water out into a bucket.</p>
<p>Apply your preferred cleaner under the rim so that the entire bowl is covered – simple bleach and water is just as effective as any other type of cleanser.</p>
<p>Busy yourself cleaning the rest of the <a href="http://www.homeauvi.com/category/bathrooms">bathroom</a>. Come back and scrub away with a handled brush until the bowl is clean.<br />
Refill the toilet bowl and flush to rinse.</p>
<h2 align="center">Quickly Replace the Duvet Cover</h2>
<p>Take the duvet cover and fold it into four equal sections leaving the long opening exposed and facing you.</p>
<p>Fold the duvet in exactly the same fashion.</p>
<p>Slip the duvet into the opening in the cover.</p>
<p>Grasp the corners of the duvet and the duvet cover in the same place, at the same time. Raise them up and give them a shake so that the duvet opens up inside the cover.</p>
<p>Close the opening. All done!</p>
<h2 align="center">Excellent Dust-Free Lampshades</h2>
<p>This one is actually very simple – use the soft-brush attachment for your vacuum cleaner and go over the lampshade until all traces of dust have been removed. If there are any visible stains or discolorations that need to be removed, you can use a solution made from warm water and just a wee bit of mild detergent to clean the shade. Dip a soft cloth in the cleanser and wring it out completely.</p>
<p>Work quickly, wiping one small area at a time – be careful not to soak the shade as this could cause colors to run. Use a clean cloth dipped in clear water to rinse in the same manner, then dry using paper towels.</p>
<p>Not every home improvement project needs to big a major home remodeling project. Use these tips to help you accomplish your household tasks more quickly and easily.</p>
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		<title>Choosing Kitchen Floor Tiles</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/choosing-kitchen-floor-tiles.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/choosing-kitchen-floor-tiles.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 17:50:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchens]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=628</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Choosing kitchen floor tiles is a job that few can spend your time, here are some steps that might be useful to you and to beautify your home especially your home kitchen. Kitchen floor tiles options that will stand the examination time, lifestyle and sense should be the main objective. These tasks not easy because of various materials, styles, ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="size-full wp-image-629 aligncenter" alt="Choosing Kitchen Floor Tiles" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Choosing-Kitchen-Floor-Tiles.jpg" width="500" height="500" /><strong>Choosing</strong><b> </b><b>kitchen floor tiles</b> is a job that few can spend your time, here are some steps that might be useful to you and to beautify your home especially your home kitchen. Kitchen floor tiles options that will stand the examination time, lifestyle and sense should be the main objective. These tasks not easy because of various materials, styles, designs and finishes available, but you can limit the choice of planning and research. You may delete that do not meet the criteria of speed, you can safely choose the best option.</p>
<h3>These are a few options to consider when choosing kitchen floor tiles</h3>
<p>Consider your budget</p>
<p>Prices range from peel and stick vinyl tile inexpensive high quality porcelain. After studying the cost of the product, you can determine which plan fits your budget. If your kitchen is an area of ​​heavy traffic, investment in sustainable land offers peace and satisfaction.</p>
<p>Product Search</p>
<p>A visit to your local home improvement will provide information on manufacturers of tiles, types, duration and cost. You can also manage the products and get valuable information from a sales representative.</p>
<p>Choose a type</p>
<p>Joint tiles of kitchen equipment are ceramic tile, marble, vinyl, granite, slate and terracotta. For a good durability and low maintenance, ceramic and vinyl are good choices. Granite, marble and slate are prone to stains and scratches. Tiles should be installed on a steady flat surface to avoid cracking.</p>
<p>Determine your lifestyle</p>
<p>Do you have children? Do you tend to cook every day or frequently eat? The cook of the house tend to be dirty? Check with yourself these questions when selecting soils for increased value and durability.</p>
<p>Determine the number of tiles needed</p>
<p>Measure the factory to the number of square feet, and then use this measure and the size of the card to calculate the number of tiles needed to cover the ground. Add additional panels unusual niche areas, which require cutting tables and the replacement of damaged tiles.</p>
<p>Choose a color, style and finish</p>
<p>Soil samples to compare with your kitchen cabinets, walls and countertops. Many retailers will allow you to see samples or land to buy pictures of one. In its overall design, considering how the size of the boxes to contribute to the aesthetics of your kitchen. Tiles small (six inches or less) may seem dated, while the large tiles (eight inches or more) tend to look more contemporary. The frequency of cleaning should be considered in choosing colors, as shown in the clear dirt and dust show darker.</p>
<h2>Type of Kitchen Floor Tiles</h2>
<p>Soils laminates</p>
<p>This soil is slowly climbing its way to popularity. The principle in the manufacture of this type of soil is that a picture is coated with a durable flooring material. This gives the desired effect of wood floors, even without the cost of a real wood floor. Laminate tiles are also easy to clean and install. Be purchased in sheets, strips or sheets.</p>
<p>Stones ground</p>
<p>This type can be very expensive due to the different appeal that gives your kitchen floor. The type of stone chosen by the impact of size, shape and cost of the stones. It can be difficult to adapt to the rocks in the soil due to its unusual shape, but nothing seems as attractive and as unique as shiny stone floor.</p>
<p>Ceramides tiles</p>
<p>These type also offers easy maintenance and easy to cleaning. Ceramic tile combining elegance performance with impressive potency. There are a extensive coverage of designs ,models and colors to choose from, so they easily fit any kitchen design. Ceramic tiles should not be as accessible as the vinyl, but offers a unique appearance and luxurious finish to the kitchen floor.</p>
<p>Flats vinyl</p>
<p>This is perhaps one of the most popular choice for kitchen floors. Not only is tough and durable, it is easy to clean and maintain. Due to advances in the manufacturing process of these days, there are a variety of colors and patterns of vinyl flooring. Is also available in sheets or tiles. Because it is fairly easy to clean and clean, vinyl is the best choice for households and families in search of stylish designs that are easy to maintain.</p>
<p>Flats wood</p>
<p>This is probably the most abundant type of laminating kitchen floor. No longer are we compared to the grace and beauty of wood flooring and finish. A real wood floor is quite expensive and costly for any project to remodel the kitchen. Be sure to choose a good finish for wood, the floor will last longer.</p>
<p>Finding the right soil type with the durability, right beauty and ease of maintenance is so important. In the end, the budget for kitchen remodeling will affect your choice of flooring, kitchen design and other additions.</p>
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		<title>Custom Kitchen Islands &amp; Countertop Materials</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/custom-kitchen-islands-countertop-materials.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/custom-kitchen-islands-countertop-materials.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 17:37:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchens]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=623</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Custom kitchen islands should fit your personal style as well as needs. Many like to spice up their kitchen’s appearance by decorating their kitchen island with unique and quality materials. Why pay special attention to your kitchen island? Because this has evolved to being the main focal point of the kitchen. It is where people ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="size-full wp-image-625 aligncenter" alt="Custom Kitchen Islands &amp; Countertop Materials" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Custom-Kitchen-Islands-Countertop-Materials.jpg" width="500" height="322" /> <b></b><br />
<strong>Custom kitchen islands</strong> should fit your personal style as well as needs. Many like to spice up their kitchen’s appearance by decorating their kitchen island with unique and quality materials. Why pay special attention to your kitchen island? Because this has evolved to being the main focal point of the kitchen. It is where people congregate during parties. Moreover, large kitchen islands often serve as an impromptu breakfast bar or table for the kids and family members. With the island being the main focus, it’s no wonder that most want a countertop that is unique, dramatic, and a perfect mix and match of different quality materials.</p>
<p>Many homeowners want to make an impact through the use of bold colors, patterns, or materials and enhance the look through kitchen island furniture. This is the easiest way to do it. Another is to find materials that fit the look, personality, and style of your kitchen. For example, wood such as maple or oak is best for cabinets and carts, especially if you’re after a rustic or country kitchen style. On the other hand, black granite is often used in most modern and contemporary kitchen designs.</p>
<p>Here are some materials to choose from and that you can mix and match in your kitchen. You might also choose a different color of the same material to create contrast and drama.</p>
<h2>Granite Countertops</h2>
<p>This remains the most popular material for a kitchen island countertop since it is elegant, dramatic, and very durable. It can withstand the daily grind happening in your kitchen. It is also less expensive now than before when only a few were using it. It comes in a wide range of colors and designs and can stand up to high heat. Some disadvantages, though, come when it’s not properly installed or sealed, as some stones might crack and absorb stains.</p>
<h2>Ceramic Tile Counters</h2>
<p>This is a durable countertop material that is very easy to clean. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other materials. If you have a tight budget on kitchen customization, using ceramic tiles is a good choice as installation is also easy. It’s widely available and easy to maintain. However, you need to keep in mind that tiles can sometimes chip or crack and grout lines can get stained.</p>
<h2>Laminate Materials</h2>
<p>Famous laminates are Formica, Wilsonart, and Nevamar. They are synthetics with plastic coats that result in a smooth surface. They are easy to clean and the prices are reasonable. However, some scratches may appear and they may not be repairable.</p>
<h2>Wood or Butcher Block</h2>
<p>This is easily one of the more beautiful materials you can use for your countertop aside from granite. It has a warm homey feel and is available in a variety of finishes. Most use hardwoods such as maple and oak, which are easy to clean and are very smooth. They can be resealed and sanded as required. You have to take care, though, as water and stain from daily use can damage the countertop.</p>
<h2>Stainless Steel Countertops</h2>
<p>If you have a modern kitchen, stainless steel is the best choice. It is resistant to high heat and is very durable. It can also be easily constructed based on your specifications. A big downside is that it is expensive. In addition, you should know that stainless steel counters are noisy and may incur dents.</p>
<p><em>Custom kitchen islands</em> should fit your lifestyle and match the rest of your kitchen’s decor. You ought to set a budget for your custom-made island and be mindful of other considerations such as maintenance and repair. Choose your material now and make an impact with custom kitchen islands.</p>
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		<title>Kitchen Pendant Lighting – Getting Your Kitchen Light Fixtures Right</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/kitchen-pendant-lighting-getting-your-kitchen-light-fixtures-right.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/kitchen-pendant-lighting-getting-your-kitchen-light-fixtures-right.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 10:27:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchens]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=616</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Kitchen pendant lighting is one of the contemporary lighting styles in modern kitchens today. It’s also fast becoming popular, especially when placed over kitchen islands or peninsulas. They are beautiful and serve very well as task lighting. It can be pretty hard to find the exact pendant lights that you want though. Plus it isn&#8217;t ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Kitchen pendant lighting</strong> is one of the contemporary lighting styles in modern kitchens today. It’s also fast becoming popular, especially when placed over kitchen islands or peninsulas. They are beautiful and serve very well as task lighting. It can be pretty hard to find the exact pendant lights that you want though. Plus it isn&#8217;t so simple to position them correctly to ensure that they provide sufficient lighting in your kitchen.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class=" wp-image-617 aligncenter" alt="Kitchen Pendant Lighting – Getting Your Kitchen Light Fixtures Right" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Kitchen-Pendant-Lighting-–-Getting-Your-Kitchen-Light-Fixtures-Right.jpg" width="441" height="531" /></p>
<p>Here are some tips to help you get beautiful pendant light fixtures that will not only improve your kitchen lighting but also blend in with your kitchen design and decor properly. Further information is provided on the right way to install them.</p>
<h2>Where to Look for Pendant Lights</h2>
<ul>
<li>Look for pendant lights in your local stores or in big box stores like the Great Indoors and the Expo Design. This will give you an idea on the available shapes, sizes, and colors for pendant lights.</li>
<li>Other places where you can get ideas for this types of home lighting are in bars and restaurants. They often have better choices in lighting than most stores. If you see something that you like, take a picture of it using your digital camera or camera phone so that you know what to look for. You can also ask the owner where the lighting fixtures were bought or who installed them.</li>
<li>If you don’t find a lot of selections in stores then you can look at catalogs. Get a quote for the lighting fixtures that you like and remember to ask about their return policy. Most are willing to give refunds but will charge a restocking fee,</li>
<li>If you want glass pendant lights then consider the color that you like. Many of these lights are hand painted so the colors in the catalog may not exactly match what you get. When placing your order, it helps to be specific about the color. For example, explicitly indicate that you want the deepest red or the bluest blue.</li>
<li>Lighting Universe is an online store you might want to check out. They accept returns and don’t charge a restocking fee. Whether you need fluorescent, halogen, or Tiffany pendant lights, Lighting Universal will get them to you if they don’t already have them.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="wp-image-620 aligncenter" alt="Positioning Your Pendant Light Fixtures Properly" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Positioning-Your-Pendant-Light-Fixtures-Properly-1024x814.jpg" width="574" height="456" /></p>
<h2>Positioning Your Pendant Light Fixtures Properly</h2>
<p>It’s your responsibility to figure out how high you want your pendant light fixtures to be. Don’t expect your electrician to know this.<br />
Here are some guidelines to help you determine the proper height for your kitchen lights:</p>
<ul>
<li>The general rule for positioning your pendant lights is between thirty and forty inches above the surface of your kitchen island. However, to be more accurate, try to consider the heights of the people who will be interacting in the kitchen, particularly from across each side of the island.</li>
<li>If your spouse is taller than you, don’t let them take care of measuring the proper height as it might not be right for you.</li>
<li>Your goal is to position your lighting fixtures such that you don’t get an obstructed view in the space thirty to forty inches above your kitchen counter.</li>
</ul>
<p>Test this out by having some people sit on stools on one side of the island and some stand across from them. They should be able to see across from each other without bending or craning their necks. Place plates in front of those on the stools. There should be sufficient lighting and no glare on the plates.</p>
<p>While keeping the pendant light in the same position, try to see if it looks good from afar – whether it’s too high or too low.</p>
<p>Make sure to involve everyone in your household when positioning these modern kitchen lighting fixtures. This way, you can be assured of a kitchen that is not only beautifully lighted but also of <em>kitchen pendant lighting</em> that’s functional.</p>
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		<title>5 Tips to Increase the Value of Your Rental Property</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/5-tips-to-increase-the-value-of-your-rental-property.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/5-tips-to-increase-the-value-of-your-rental-property.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 10:16:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Other]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=612</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You did it. You found the perfect rental property at an almost perfect price. You survived all the negotiations, the paperwork, the second thoughts, and the endless conversations with the bank. The property is yours. Now it’s time to make that puppy start paying for itself. Before you rush off to find renters, first consider ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p align="center"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-613" alt="5 Tips to Increase the Value of Your Rental Property" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/5-Tips-to-Increase-the-Value-of-Your-Rental-Property.jpg" width="651" height="319" /></p>
<p>You did it. You found the perfect rental property at an almost perfect price. You survived all the negotiations, the paperwork, the second thoughts, and the endless conversations with the bank. The property is yours. Now it’s time to make that puppy start paying for itself.</p>
<p>Before you rush off to find renters, first consider how you can maximize the property’s value. After all, for the investment to truly pay off, it has to be attractive to tenants who will pay your ideal rental price.</p>
<p>While there’s nothing you can do about the property’s size or its neighborhood, making a few key improvements to the interior of the property can make an enormous difference in the rent you can ask for – and get.</p>
<p>Don’t shy away from the additional investment: spending several extra thousand dollars now can yield substantial benefits for years to come. Here are five tips to get you started.</p>
<ol>
<li><b>Paint.</b> Is it an obvious answer? Yes. Does every landlord do it? No. It’s surprising how many otherwise decent rental properties are out there with cracked and peeling walls. Slapping a fresh coat of paint on the walls is a quick way to enliven and increase the value of any property. Use neutral colors, variations on white, beige or yellow. These colors age well and have the advantage of making rooms look brighter and bigger. If you’re on a tight budget, there’s no need to paint every room. Just paint the main living spaces: the bedrooms, living room, and kitchen.</li>
<li><b>Create more useable space.</b> For many tenants square footage is less important than useable living space. After all, it’s frustrating to live in a property that has an enormous hallway but a bedroom no bigger than a shoebox. Eye your rental property for wasted space. Where could you knock down a wall to make the living space larger? Could you convert the attic, garage or basement into an extra bedroom or study? If your property has high ceilings, think about creating a false ceiling and using the void as storage space. You may even want to consider adding a conservatory to your property – but, if you do, build it well. A new room that doesn&#8217;t mesh well with the style of the original property will do nothing to increase the value of your property. In fact, it may even act against you.</li>
<li><b>Eco-Friendly.</b> Making your property eco-friendly can cost a pretty penny at the outset, but it gives your property’s value a healthy boost. The most important thing you can do is ensure that the property’s attic, floors, and walls are well insulated. Insulation limits the amount of heat leaving the home during cold seasons, and prevents heat from entering the home during warm seasons. This means that less energy is used to keep the property’s temperature stable and comfortable. Also consider installing a solar panel to produce heat, hot water, and light, or upgrading the plumbing system to conserve water. Some states and territories offer rebates and other incentives for adding solar panels, natural gas hot water systems and other green features, so don&#8217;t forget to look into those benefits as well.</li>
<li><b>Kitchen &amp; Bathroom.</b> Newly <a title="Kitchen Remodeling Ideas" href="http://www.homeauvi.com/category/kitchens">renovated kitchens</a> and <a href="http://www.homeauvi.com/category/bathrooms">bathrooms</a> hold enormous appeal for tenants. According to UK property guru expert Phil Spenser, these renovations can add as much as 6.88 percent to the value of the house. If you can afford it, give these rooms a total makeover. Get rid of the dingy bathtub or stained sink, replace cracked tiles, install good lighting, put in a glass shower door instead of a shower curtain. If your budget can’t handle a total makeover, then do a partial one. Put priority on modernizing fixtures such as taps, racks, mirrors, shelves, and cabinets, taking care not to use items that will become outdated in ten years. And above all – clean! Eliminate any sign of mildew, mold, and dirt, and try to remove or diminish ugly stains.</li>
<li><b>Modernize the Flooring.</b> High-quality flooring can significantly increase the value of your rental property. Renters tend to favor natural materials such as wood,  stone, quartz, ceramic tiles,  so use those when possible. Avoid floors covered with vinyl, which looks cheap and can feel unpleasant underfoot. You might also want to skip the linoleum flooring. Although it’s a natural product, it dents, scratches and tears fairly easily which can make it look unattractive quickly. If you opt to use carpeting in your property, make sure the carpeting is – and looks – clean and modern.</li>
</ol>
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		<title>Apartment Decorating Tips on a Budget</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/apartment-decorating-tips-on-a-budget.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/apartment-decorating-tips-on-a-budget.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 May 2013 17:52:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ToTo Kumiya</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=604</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The idea of decorating can often strike fear in anyone living on a budget because of the costs involved. What’s important to keep in mind, however, is that making a big impact often only takes a few changes around your home. Take apartments, for instance. Improving the look and feel of your unit doesn&#8217;t need to ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The idea of decorating can often strike fear in anyone living on a budget because of the costs involved. What’s important to keep in mind, however, is that making a big impact often only takes a few changes around your home.</p>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-607 aligncenter" alt="Apartment Decorating Tips on a Budget" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Apartment-Decorating-Tips-on-a-Budget.jpg" width="600" height="399" /></p>
<p>Take apartments, for instance. Improving the look and feel of your unit doesn&#8217;t need to cost a lot; as long as you keep these tips in mind, you don’t have to sacrifice eating for the next month to accomplish a certain look.</p>
<ol>
<li><b>Think about a theme or motif.</b> Coming up with a central idea for your entire apartment will help you determine which kind of decoration to buy, and where you can get them on the cheap. Here’s a suggestion: take a look at what you already have (such as Mediterranean art or vintage film posters) and see if you can find a theme in them. Not only will this get the ball rolling, you can also scratch these off your list of things to buy, especially if you have enough.</li>
<li><b>Paint.</b> Ask anyone and they will tell you that painting is one of the most inexpensive ways that you can spruce up a room. Aside from being affordable, it’s easy enough to do by yourself so you don’t have to hire people to do it for you. Choose a color that will highlight your condo’s running theme, and to save even more money, choose only one wall in a room to paint as an accent wall.</li>
<li><b>Utilize your walls.</b> If you have any artwork collecting dust in a corner, bring them out and hang them on the wall. A unique quilt, empty picture frames of the same color and certain souvenirs will also look good as wall accents. Set a bookshelf against one wall of your living room and fill it with vases, candles, old photos and other items that are of similar color or style to make sure it looks pulled together.</li>
<li><b>Be crafty with storage.</b> Even the way you store your things can contribute to your apartment’s new look, as long as you do it with a bit of flair. Have some pots and pans that you often use? Don’t keep them under the sink; install hooks on a wall in the kitchen and hang them up there. Choose an empty wall in your bedroom where you can put hooks for your bags, instead of keeping them in the closet. The idea is to use empty spaces as well as you can while also keeping them from looking too cluttered.</li>
<li><b>Learn to repurpose.</b> Don’t be too quick to toss out your old stuff if you think you can use them another way. If you have old drapes or table covers that have interesting patterns, turn them into pillowcases. Use chipped mugs as pots for small plants that you can display along the kitchen window sill.</li>
</ol>
<p>If you think about it, you can be at your most creative when you’re decorating on a budget; in this state, you’re encouraged to work with what you have and spend as little as possible. The next time that you feel an itch to shake things up artistically in your apartment, remember to look at your lack of funds not as an obstacle but a great way to once again stretch your imagination to the limit.</p>
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		<title>Eco Friendly Ways to Increase the Value of Your Property</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/eco-friendly-ways-to-increase-the-value-of-your-property.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/eco-friendly-ways-to-increase-the-value-of-your-property.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2013 19:25:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Energy Savings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=566</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When most people think of increasing the value of their home, they think of remodeling and adding extra rooms. With the new technology that’s available today, there are some really great eco-friendly ways to improve the value of homes. Solar panels are a great way to increase the value of one’s home; they are also ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-569 aligncenter" alt="Eco Friendly Ways to Increase the Value of Your Property" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Eco-Friendly-Ways-to-Increase-the-Value-of-Your-Property-300x194.jpg" width="300" height="194" /><br />
When most people think of increasing the value of their home, they think of remodeling and adding extra rooms. With the new technology that’s available today, there are some really great eco-friendly ways to improve the value of homes.</p>
<p>Solar panels are a great way to increase the value of one’s home; they are also a great money and energy saving method. By installing solar panels on the roof or lawn, one can use the energy from the sun in order to power his or her home. Some solar panels power only a portion of the house while others can power the entire house.</p>
<p>Solar powered water heaters and solar powered vents are great for improving the value of one’s home as well. Solar powered vents can be installed in rooms such as garages or sheds in order to keep them from being so humid and hot.</p>
<p>Solar powered water heaters can be used alongside the regular water heater. On days when there is not enough solar energy to power the water heater, the regular water heater can be used instead. These are great ways to both save money each month and add great value to homes.</p>
<p>In order to conserve water, homeowners can change the showerheads and toilets by using lower flowing valves and by using a showerhead with less pressure. This can save gallons of water each day and greatly reduce the cost of water per month. By changing the type of light bulbs used, homeowners can reduce the amount of energy used on a daily basis. Incandescent bulbs are a more energy efficient alternative to traditional bulbs.</p>
<p>When it comes to gardening, homeowners can use alternative water sources for watering their gardens. By using buckets during a rainstorm to collect water, the water can be stored until time to water the garden. If there is a lake or stream near the home, it can also be used for collecting water in order to water the garden or lawn.</p>
<p>Wells can also be dug. By digging underground water wells, homeowners can use this method for watering plants as well as for supplying water throughout the house. Double glazed windows are also a great way for saving energy costs. Heat and air can seep out of the house if the windows are single glazed. Double glazed windows help keep the hot and cool air in the house. This will save money as well as keep the family cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.</p>
<p>An additional method of keeping the home properly heated and cooled is by installing proper insulation. If the home is not properly insulated, the air will seep out through those areas. By adding insulation to a home, the energy costs will go down. A simple method of saving energy is to turn off televisions and lights when they are not being used. Do not leave wires plugged into electrical outlets once they are finished being used either. Unplug them in order to save energy.</p>
<p>If a home is eco-friendly, it will be more comfortable to live in. By using solar technology, natural water collection methods, water efficient toiletry methods, and better insulation, it will help save our natural resources and save money. Homeowners who make the proper eco-friendly improvements to their homes will make it more valuable when the time comes to sell.</p>
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		<title>5 Cheap Ways to Upgrade Your Home</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/5-cheap-ways-to-upgrade-your-home.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/5-cheap-ways-to-upgrade-your-home.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 May 2013 03:32:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=513</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Give your home an affordable makeover While it might be nice to spend thousands of dollars on a full home remodel or renovation and get things to look exactly as you always dreamed they would, for most of us that just isn&#8217;t an option no matter what the economic climate happens to be. Some people ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 style="text-align: left;" align="center">Give your home an affordable makeover</h2>
<p>While it might be nice to spend thousands of dollars on a full home remodel or renovation and get things to look exactly as you always dreamed they would, for most of us that just isn&#8217;t an option no matter what the economic climate happens to be. Some people live in rented apartments or houses and cannot make major renovations while others simply don’t have the cash on hand to invest in massive changes but still don’t want to be forced to live with ugly or outdated designs. Plus, it’s a great feeling to be thrifty and spruce up a space using creativity, ingenuity, and your own two hands. Use these simple, cheap and effective methods to give a room or the whole house a makeover.</p>
<h2 align="center"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-516" alt="painting" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/painting.jpg" width="180" height="155" /><br />
Paint</h2>
<p>This cannot be said enough: paint is the number one way to change, spruce up or renovate a room or piece of furniture on the cheap. A can of paint, set of brushes, drop cloth and plastic will cost around $50 and can go a long way towards updating any room. Dedicate a Saturday to painting the room or furniture piece of your choosing and for a fraction of the cost of a remodel or new furniture set you’ll have something that looks brand new. Plus, paint can be easily changed if you need to move out, or simply want to change the color, and all you’ll lose is a few hours of your time.</p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-519 aligncenter" alt="fabrics" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/fabrics-300x199.jpg" width="300" height="199" /></p>
<h2 align="center">Fabric</h2>
<p>Fabric is another great way to add personality and customization to a home you’re renting or tide you over until you can do a more extensive remodel. Throw pillows, shower curtains, window coverings, blankets and towels provide color and patterns to any room and can be the focal point of small rooms, like the bathroom. Choose fabrics that represent your personality and lifestyle and pair them with neutral paint and tiles for a quirky contrast that you can easily change out. You can even make or buy a couch cover to get the look of a new couch for far less than buying one, and make it feel new with pillows.</p>
<p><img class="size-medium wp-image-520 aligncenter" alt="Hardware" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Hardware-300x158.jpg" width="300" height="158" /></p>
<h2 align="center">Hardware</h2>
<p>Kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets do more to draw the eye than most other parts of a kitchen or bathroom, and if you’re stuck with old, outdated or ugly cabinets you might not be able to distract yourself. While you can always paint or reface your cabinets, a quicker fix is to change out the hardware. Although cabinets as a whole will most certainly be noticeable, as you get close to actually use the cabinets you’ll notice the hardware more than anything else. Replacing old, boring hardware, drawer pulls and cabinet knobs with fun new pieces can give your kitchen or bathroom a subtle yet effective makeover. Plus, you can save the old hardware pieces if you live in a rental and put them back on before you move, taking your awesome new hardware with you.<br />
<img class="wp-image-521 aligncenter" alt="over time" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/over-time-300x199.jpg" width="210" height="139" /></p>
<h2 align="center">Upgrade over time</h2>
<p>If you’re going to be in one place for a while think about upgrading appliances, furniture pieces and fixtures over time as you have money and time. Replacing the kitchen faucet won’t cost much, and other things can be replaced as they wear out. As each light bulb goes out replace it with an energy efficient bulb and see your utility savings pile up. Likewise, replace major kitchen appliances with energy efficient models as needed and buy that new bed or couch when the time is right. Keep your end goal in mind, however, and make sure all new items fit within the same design.</p>
<h2 align="center">Know your limit</h2>
<p>This is perhaps the most important piece of advice that too many people seem to ignore: the allure of saving money on a DIY project can be tempting, but if you come across an idea or project that makes you uncomfortable it’s probably best to just not do it. Having to pay a professional to fix your mistakes is not only embarrassing, it almost always ends up costing more in the end than if you’d just had someone do it right the first time. This is especially true for electrical and plumbing fixes, as certain tasks require permits.</p>
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		<title>15 Tips for Choosing the Best Rug for Your Room</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/15-tips-for-choosing-the-best-rug-for-your-room.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/15-tips-for-choosing-the-best-rug-for-your-room.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2013 05:40:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>ToTo Kumiya</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=467</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You&#8217;ve decided that your newly decorated space won’t be complete until you find the perfect rug to make it shine. However, choosing the perfect rug isn&#8217;t always easy.  Listed below are 15 tips for choosing the best rug for your room.  What will your perfect rug look like? Choose the right shape.  The right shape ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><img class="size-medium wp-image-468 aligncenter" alt="15 Tips for Choosing the Best Rug for Your Room" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/15-Tips-for-Choosing-the-Best-Rug-for-Your-Room-300x207.jpg" width="300" height="207" />You&#8217;ve decided that your newly decorated space won’t be complete until you find the perfect rug to make it shine. However, choosing the perfect rug isn&#8217;t always easy.  Listed below are 15 tips for choosing the best rug for your room.  What will your perfect rug look like?</p>
<ul>
<li><i>Choose the right shape.</i>  The right shape will depend on your space.  Rectangular rugs work best in large spaces.  It also depends on how your furniture is arranged.  Choose the right shape based on these factors.</li>
<li><i>Say “no” to floating rugs.</i>   Ask any interior decorator and you will hear this!  Floating rugs tend to get lost in spaces and really have no reason for being in your home. Choose a rug big enough to fill the space. Similarly, rugs that are too big can make your room look small.</li>
<li><i>Choose a rug that will complement your décor.</i>  When choosing the best rug for your room, you want to choose one that will go with your existing décor. A rug that doesn’t complement your décor can throw the scale and the overall look of the space off.</li>
<li><i>Will the rug stand up to wear and tear?</i> Another important factor to look for when choosing a rug is how it will stand up to wear and tear. High traffic rooms such the living room require rugs that can withstand day to day activity.  A rug in the guest bedroom, on the other hand, may not.</li>
<li><i>Opt for a quality rug that will last a long time. </i>Quality rugs will stand up day to day and will last longer than rugs that aren’t of good quality.  Buying a rug is an investment. Get the most bang for your buck!</li>
<li><i>Color does matter.</i>  If you have kids, you might not want to run out and buy a completely white rug.  Color does matter! Remember, you will be living in this space and so will your family. Don’t buy something that you will have to stress over cleaning each and every time your kids step on it.</li>
<li><i>Explore your many options.</i>  Don’t settle for the first rug you come across. Explore you options so that you get the best pattern for the best price.  Rugs make a huge statement about your home.  Be sure that you are making the right statement.</li>
<li><i>Get advice from an interior decorator.</i> An interior decorator can give you useful tips and even help you pick out the perfect rug for your space. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.</li>
<li><i>Look at photos in magazines.</i> Photos in magazines will give you some ideas on how to incorporate a rug into your space.</li>
<li><i>Choose a rug that won’t go out of style quickly.</i>  A classic rug will give your home an elegant and warm look all year round, regardless of if the trends change.  Avoid going with trends and choose a rug that won’t go out of style.</li>
<li><i>Is the rug stain resistant? </i>Choose a rug that is made of stain resistant materials to help avoiding having to clean the rug over and over again.</li>
<li><i>Consider your existing flooring. </i>If you have carpet, getting a rug may not be the best idea. However, rugs go perfectly on hardwood floors.</li>
<li><i>Indoor/Outdoor rugs.</i>  If you are decorating an outdoor space, choose a rug that can withstand the elements of the weather.</li>
<li><i>Budget friendly choices.</i> Find a rug that works for your budget but that is still high quality.  Don’t skimp on quality just so that the rug will fit into your budget.</li>
<li><i>Rugs and runners. </i>Perhaps you can choose a rug and runner that match to help the décor of your home to be more cohesive.  A beautiful rug in your living area is complemented by a runner in your hallway. The possibilities are endless when creating the perfect combination with rugs and runners.</li>
</ul>
<p>Use the 15 tips listed above to help you <a href="http://www.homeauvi.com/15-tips-for-choosing-the-best-rug-for-your-room.html">choose the best rug for your room</a>. With the endless possibilities available for you to choose from, these tips will help make the decision a little easier on you.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>5 Trendy Furniture Style for Your Interiors</title>
		<link>http://www.homeauvi.com/5-trendy-furniture-style-for-your-interiors.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.homeauvi.com/5-trendy-furniture-style-for-your-interiors.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2013 17:19:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Nalisara</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2013]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interiors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trendy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.homeauvi.com/?p=455</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have you been thinking of buying new furniture? There are several styles, each unique in its own way, to decorate your house. You can choose the style that reflects your personality and gives you comfort. Below are five furniture styles that you can use to style your home’s interior. Classic This style reflects the true ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 align="center"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-456" title="furniture" alt="5 Trendy Furniture Style for Your Interiors" src="http://www.homeauvi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/5-Trendy-Furniture-Style-for-Your-Interiors-300x300.jpg" width="300" height="300" /></h2>
<p>Have you been thinking of buying new <b>furniture</b>? There are several styles, each unique in its own way, to decorate your house. You can choose the style that reflects your personality and gives you comfort. Below are five <i>furniture</i> styles that you can use to style your home’s interior.</p>
<h2 align="center">Classic</h2>
<p>This style reflects the true nature of <span style="text-decoration: underline;">furniture</span> functionality. It is timeless and adapts to all environments. It gives an aura of warmth to its surroundings and exudes character and sophistication to the look of any home. The material mostly used for this furniture is wood, and the intricate designs carved by expert craftsmen give the furniture a sign of prestige. The craftsmanship to make this furniture has been passed on for centuries and portrays a harmonic fusion of the ancient and modern style of home décor.</p>
<h2 align="center">Shabby Chic</h2>
<p>This style uses vintage accessories and comfortable furniture. Using light painted, wrought iron furniture, floral fabric with rough old lace, painted wooden tables and soft throw rugs; this style gives your home a casual yet elegant look. This approach will give your home a vintage look, just as if it was your grandmother’s cozy and comfortable home.</p>
<h2 align="center">Industrial</h2>
<p>Many factories have closed down over the past decades. They had some exquisite furniture which was then thrown away. Today people realize the value of those vintage pieces and wish to adorn their houses with vintage coffee tables and shelves. These pieces of furniture are made with reclaimed wood and angle iron. The furniture gives character to your interior and at the same time reflects its own history.</p>
<h2 align="center">Retro</h2>
<p>The word retro signifies looking back. Retro furniture duplicates the look of furniture that used to be made in the era of 1950s to 1980s. From sleek to playful and out rightly bold and chunky, retro furniture gives your home a kitsch and whimsical effect.</p>
<h2 align="center">Modern</h2>
<p>Modern furniture refers to contemporary styles of furniture made in the latter half of the 20th century. The style evolved from chunky to light and chic. World War II left its impact on many things, even the way people lived. After the war, families wanted furniture that was standardized, cheap and comfortable. They wanted furniture that was brightly patterned. They also wanted furniture made of leather and tubular steel that weighed light and could be easily moved around rather than hardwood or wrought iron.<br />
You need creativity to work out which style will be appropriate for your house depending on its size and look. Buying furniture is costly and you should decide your choice carefully. This will help give your home that new and fresh look you wanted for a long time.</p>
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