Home

Barbara Ballinger

Barbara Ballinger, is a writer who focuses on real estate, design, and personal subjects. Her latest book is Not Dead Yet: Rebooting your life after 50.

website redesign

A 7-Step Checklist for Refreshing Your Website

The new year presents an opportunity to refresh your brand for the year ahead, and taking a look at your website can be a simple first step.It may be time to revise copy and visuals...
Jan. 20, 2022
model remodel home

New Beginnings: Model ReModel 2021

Pro Remodeler’s 2021 Model ReModel home is a textbook example of staying on schedule through skillful project management.Mark and Mina Fies were looking for a new beginning by...
Dec. 16, 2021
rec room remodel

Recreation Room Redo

The suburban sprawl that occurred in the 1950s and 60s led to new styles of homes, new styles of furnishings and materials, and a new place to hang out—downstairs, if the foundation...
Oct. 5, 2021
pool

Get Ready, Homeowners Want to Book Pool Installations Now for Next Year

Many homeowners discovered the joy of having a backyard to escape to during COVID-19. Some opted to construct in-ground pools for enhanced leisure time—those who did so early ...
Sept. 16, 2021
chimney fire

Checking Your Client’s Chimneys? Look For These Common Damages

Brick spalling, crumbling, moisture—these failures result from a lack of chimney maintenance. As fall approaches, remodelers must ensure their client’s home—and chimney—are ready...
Sept. 14, 2021
wood flooring

Trends for Wood Flooring in 2022

Of all the available floor coverings, wood is the most consistent choice that adds value, says Brett Miller, VP of education and certification for the National Wood Flooring Association...
Sept. 8, 2021
Large Kitchen

Expanding the Kitchen Triangle

As kitchens have evolved into bigger rooms with more activities and people, the original work triangle is joined by zones that serve multiple functions. Here’s how to make the...
Aug. 30, 2021
Green kitchen, large island, design

Kitchen Islands Go Big

As more family members gather in the kitchen to cook, do work, and hang out, the anchor of the room is increasingly a better outfitted island. Here’s what you should know to ...
Aug. 24, 2021