Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 299)

It was recently disclosed that some of the homeowners on the popular HGTV series "Fixer Upper" had already purchased their home before the show started filming—shocker! But there's good reason for the deception: If you’re buying a new home, you can’t expect to tour it, bid, and close in time for next week's episode! Behind the quick turnaround and flashy reveal lie a sea of paperwork, stressful waiting, and unexpected costs that would make a true-to-life television series a real flop. So, if you're you're considering an as-seen-on-HGTV-style renovation, keep in mind these 10 things that home makeover shows never tell you.

Lumber and other wood products are expensive, and sometimes hard to come by. Here’s how you can complete your DIY projects without breaking the bank.

Here’s why it might be a good idea to keep those fluffy, yellow flowers around.

This affordable interior decor trend has gone viral on social media—but is it right for you?

Take the frustration out of lighting your charcoal grill with the best charcoal chimney starter.

Create a welcoming environment for bees and other pollinators by following these helpful tips.

We’re in a seller’s market and houses are in short supply. But before you contact a builder, consider these 7 factors first.   

Move over, raised beds, and make room for hugelkultur. This time-honored German gardening technique amplifies surface area and maximizes soil quality, while using materials that might otherwise go to waste.

Create a self-sustaining, eco-friendly forest garden on your property by following these steps. 

When it comes to yard sales, it's easy to make a wrong turn: setting prices too high, forgetting to advertise, or shadowing buyers are all simple mistakes sellers make. But a well-planned yard sale will leave your wallet fatter and your home decluttered. Proper planning, skillful organization, and a sense of humor will save the day—and your sanity. Here are 10 tips to ensure success.

Bright flowers and colorful foliage are the easiest ways to amp up your curb appeal. If you're in a rush to get things growing, try one of these fast-blooming varieties to add instant charm to your facade.

Alternatives to downspouts, rain chains guide water down from the gutter—with a lot more charm.

While deciduous trees shed their leaves in fall, these trees keep their foliage all year long.

As outdoor relaxation season heats up, be sure to check your deck and take care of any necessary repairs. Here’s what to look for.

The mattress industry says you should replace your mattress every 7 to 10 years, but the real answer is a bit more complicated and depends on many variables. Read on to find out which factors have the greatest impact on the lifespan of your mattress.

Relax in the yard while enjoying privacy and protection from the sun with these cool, ready-to-assemble gazebo kits.

Upgrade the drop zone with an attractive bench and set of hooks in a single weekend.

Get a primer on a metal makeover you can use to restore rusted relics to better-than-new condition.

Repair rather than replace your most essential lawn care accessory with these quick and easy techniques.

We think the size and shape of plumbing pipes make them a perfect stand-in for a curtain rod. Spray painted dark for a more industrial flair, this DIY project helps pull together DIY office decor.