•••••••••••••••••••••• their homes. Such homeowners can create a billiards room or paint a room hot pink if they so prefer. However, if the goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go, and improvements can be expensive. If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers. Forgetting to properly vet all workers It is important to vet your contractor, but don’t forget to vet potential subcontractors as well. Failing to do so can prove a costly mistake. Contractors often look to subcontractors to perform certain parts of a job, and it is the responsibility of homeowners to vet these workers. Expecting everything to go as planned Optimism is great, but you also should be a realist. Knowing what potentially could go wrong puts you in a better position to handle any problems should they arise. The project might go off without a hitch, but plan for a few hiccups along the way. v MetroCreative Connection Handy Tips for Revitalizing Paneled Rooms Paneling is a low-cost way to cover problem walls. In the 1960s and 1970s, paneling was very popular. Sold in large panels, paneling was relatively easy to hang, and quickly became a staple of dens and finished basements. But few of today’s homeowners are enamored with the look of faux wood paneling. Those who purchase homes that have paneling on the walls often search for ways to transform the look of rooms in which the walls are covered in paneling. While paneling does go up quickly, removing it may not be as simple. Explore these options for giving paneled walls a new look. Paint over the paneling The fastest way to breathe new life into a paneled room is to paint over the paneling. The texture of the pan- eling will show from beneath, giving the room appeal without the dark hue of the wood or veneer panels. Consult with a paint store or home improvement center to determine the most effective way to cover up paneling with paint. Sometimes it is wise to lightly scuff the paneling with a fine-grit sandpaper so that the paint will adhere. Shiny or glossed paneling can be dulled with a de-glossing product. Sometimes a combination of a thick primer and color will grip the paneling and reduce the number of coats needed to cover it. Also, invest in a high-quality, professional-grade paint. It may cost a bit more, but such paint will be well worth it when it glides over the paneling, covering it completely. vPaneling continued on page 18 Family-Owned & Operated For Over 40 Years! Protectors of health, property and our environment. If bugs are the problem, we are the solution! Any pest problem can be solved by our knowledgeable staff. P.R, Ruby & Karla Olson Serving all of South Dakota Call 1-800-KIL-BUGS for a free estimate. TODAY’S HOME - Spring 2015 • 17