For most homeowners, the hardest part of any home renovation project isn’t the work itself, it’s finding a competent and reliable contractor to do the job. Installing kitchen cabinets, knocking down a wall or tiling the bathroom is simple compared with the struggle of hiring a quality contractor who … [Read more...] about How to find a reliable, honest home contractor
Home & Garden
How to throw a Super Bowl party on the cheap
The Big Game doesn’t have to equal big spending. A little food, some libations, a few decorations and a TV, and you’ve got the makings for a great Super Bowl party. If you’re having friends over to watch the game, here are some Super Bowl party ideas that can help you keep the price tag under … [Read more...] about How to throw a Super Bowl party on the cheap
How to remodel your kitchen for less
We always hear that remodeling a kitchen is one of the most expensive home improvements. And it can be. The Remodeling 2023 Cost vs. Value Report listed the average cost of a major kitchen remodel at $77,939, and even a minor remodel came in at $26,790. But kitchen remodeling doesn't have to … [Read more...] about How to remodel your kitchen for less
Money-saving home maintenance tips by the month
One way to preserve your home value is to keep your house in good repair. Complete one simple task each month to save money throughout the year.January: Vacuum refrigerator coils and test the seal on your refrigerator door.Accumulated dust on the coils behind your refrigerator … [Read more...] about Money-saving home maintenance tips by the month
Cheap Super Bowl party food and snacks to make at home
Whether you’re hosting a crowd for game day or watching the Super Bowl with just your immediate family, you’ll want to have snacks on hand to enjoy during the Big Game. But you don’t have to spend a fortune on takeout or pre-made treats to make a great party spread. Check out these Super Bowl party … [Read more...] about Cheap Super Bowl party food and snacks to make at home
Save time, money by getting rid of clutter
As you look at your holiday gifts — the ones you wanted and the ones that made you wonder, “What was she thinking?” — there is probably one thought on your mind: Where am I going to put this stuff?The best way to find places to put your valued new gifts is by organizing what you have … [Read more...] about Save time, money by getting rid of clutter
5 cheap, healthy party snacks
It's a struggle to find something unique to bring to parties. Sure, guacamole and chips are delicious, but it's a bit ridiculous when five people bring a batch. Mix it up with these affordable, healthy, vegetarian snacks.Your friends will be impressed by how yummy they are, and you'll be … [Read more...] about 5 cheap, healthy party snacks
How to throw a cheap and easy holiday party
You like to entertain, but you can't afford to spend a fortune every time you invite people over for a party. Here is our guide to saving money on a party for Christmas or the New Year. Decorate with items from around the house and yard If you (or an agreeable neighbor) have … [Read more...] about How to throw a cheap and easy holiday party
Elegant holiday party on a beer budget
You’d love to give a holiday party, but those events can be real budget-busters. Well, ho-ho-hold on there. There are ways to do it up right and not break the bank. Here are some tips.Invitations Most people today are OK with an e-mail invitation. If you know someone who isn’t, get … [Read more...] about Elegant holiday party on a beer budget
Great gifts for organic gardeners
Home gardening is a popular pastime across the country. Here are our gift ideas, especially for those who practice vegetable gardening and organic home gardening. We’ve selected the best gardening gift ideas costing $25 or less (prices accurate at the time of publication). Our gift ideas … [Read more...] about Great gifts for organic gardeners
20 creative Thanksgiving leftover recipes
Do you love Thanksgiving dinner, but want fresh ideas for Thanksgiving leftover recipes that go beyond pot pie and tetrazzini? We found a rafter of turkey ideas for breakfast, lunch and dinner that make frugal and delicious use of all the food in your fridge.Breakfast dishesThanksgiving … [Read more...] about 20 creative Thanksgiving leftover recipes
Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween is one of those times of year in which we can all revert to being kids. We dress up and enjoy a little extra candy and parties. Planning a Halloween party can be so much fun, and it's even more fun when you throw a Halloween party on the cheap.Choose one of these Halloween party ideas … [Read more...] about Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween movie night ideas
Halloween is slowly creeping up on us, but the day isn’t all about trick-or-treating. It’s also about watching some great Halloween movies that make us laugh with the kids or keep us up all night hiding in horror under the covers. Here's what's ahead: Scary (or fun) Halloween … [Read more...] about Halloween movie night ideas
4 easy and cheap Halloween decorations
The Halloween season is upon us, making it the perfect time to get started on ghoulishly good crafts and cheap Halloween decorations. Gather some items from around the house, stop at a craft store with a coupon for the rest, and you can make your house spooky on the cheap or dress up your … [Read more...] about 4 easy and cheap Halloween decorations
26 adaptable recipes and menu ideas for $4-a-day budget meal planning
My experiment with a $4-a-day budget has become a welcome and permanent adjustment to my menu planning and grocery shopping routine. It has saved not only money, but my time as well as some of my sanity. The $4 a day food budget was popularized by Leanne Brown in her free online book, Good and Cheap … [Read more...] about 26 adaptable recipes and menu ideas for $4-a-day budget meal planning