Do you have a piece of furniture that you absolutely love but it doesn’t quite work with your decor because it’s dated, the wrong colour or worn out? You’re in luck – Tara Jamieson of Laren Lane Decor specializes in custom furniture restoration. Not to mention she teaches DIY classes. Tara will also be doing a presentation at StateFarm’s Main Stage at this year’s Calgary Home + Garden Show.
 
Want to learn more about what Tara does and how you can refresh, renew and restore your furniture? Like us on Facebook and post a story about a piece that you, a friend or family member either has or would like to refinish for a chance to win two free show tickets to the 2012 Calgary Home + Garden Show (reg. $14/ticket). Posts must be made no later than Tuesday, Febuary 21 at 6:00 pm. Winner’s first name and last initial will be posted on our Facebook page and on our blog.
 
In addition to Tara’s furniture restoring, there will be over 650 exhibitors and an impressive star line up including HGTV host, Bryan Baeumler, Canada’s homegrown celebrity chef, Corbin Tomaszeski and innovative must-see features. The show runs from Thursday, February 23rd to Sunday, February 26 at the BMO Center. You can also buy tickets online for $3 off here.

If you’re considering selling your home, it’s a good idea to take a look and figure out if it’s at its best. Is everything in good condition? Are there any relatively inexpensive upgrades you could make to ensure it gets evaluated at the best price?
 
Here are five easy changes you can make to increase the value and appeal of your home:

 
1. Fix up your walls: Patch up any holes, dents, or large scratches in your walls and then give them a coat of paint. Don’t just paint the holes; give the entire wall a coat of the same paint that is currently on it. That way you don’t have to make it a big project by bothering with primer and multiple coats, but it’ll have a new, noticeably fresh look.
 
2. Replace baseboards: If your baseboards are looking scuffed up or dated, replacing them with new ones will change the look of your home quite drastically without making any big changes. Just remember to opt for clean, dramatic lines.
 
3. Get new countertops: New countertops in an old kitchen can update an entire kitchen for the fraction of the cost of replacing cupboards or appliances. Spend a little more money on high quality material, and you’ll get more of a return on your investment.
 
4. Switch out the lights: Old, unattractive light fixtures can be discouraging for a potential buyer. If your budget is tight, stick with basic, neutral fixtures that will flatter any décor; Ikea has many great, budget-friendly options.
 
5. Give it a wash: This is the simplest tip of all. Use a power washer to clean the exterior of your house, driveway, and porch. The spic and span look will give your home more curb appeal at a minimal cost.
 
These five tips are from our friends at Smart Calgary Homes.
 

Lina Horner & Janel Harris, Your Calgary Realtors®