The holiday season is the perfect time to spread cheer with festive outdoor décor—but before you hang those twinkling lights or plug in that glowing reindeer, it’s important to make safety your top priority. Outdoor electrical decorations can pose fire and shock hazards if not used correctly. Follow these outdoor holiday decoration safety tips  to keep your home and family protected all season long. 1. Choose Outdoor-Rated Decorations and Extension Cords Only use extension co

As the temperatures drop and fall gives way to winter, many homeowners think pool maintenance season is over. But November is actually one of the most important months to protect your swimming pool. Whether your pool is open or winterized , one cold snap or heavy rainfall can lead to expensive damage by spring. Here are three essential things your pool needs in November  to stay in top shape: 1. A Pool Cover Pump to Remove Standing Water If your pool is closed for the season,

When it comes to choosing the best siding for your New England home, durability, energy efficiency, and weather resistance are key. From the coastal humidity to snowy winters and intense summer heat, your home’s exterior needs to stand up to it all — while maintaining curb appeal. Depending on your budget and maintenance preferences, materials like vinyl , fiber cement , cedar , and engineered wood  each offer unique advantages. Here’s a breakdown of the best siding options f

This past summer, I had the unwelcome company  of two determined woodpeckers who decided that my wood shingle siding was the perfect place to test their beaks. Their relentless pecking caused significant damage—and I knew it was time to fight back. After diving into countless articles and videos online, I came across a piece from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology  discussing various woodpecker deterrents. Intrigued, I decided to test one of their recommendations: a life-sized pl

The kitchen has evolved far beyond a place to prepare meals — it’s now the heart of the home and a reflection of innovation, style, and sustainability. As we move into 2026, the latest kitchen appliance trends  are reshaping how we cook, clean, and connect. From AI-powered ovens  to eco-friendly dishwashers  and sleek, fingerprint-free finishes , the modern kitchen is smarter, more sustainable, and more stylish than ever. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or just

If you’re considering buying an older home , you may come across two-prong outlets —also known as ungrounded outlets . These outlets lack a grounding wire, a key safety feature that protects against electric shock and equipment damage. Although ungrounded outlets  haven’t been allowed in new home construction since 1962 , they still exist in many older properties. That doesn’t necessarily mean the house is unsafe or violates building codes, but it does require a closer look b

Whole house water filters  provide clean, safe water from every faucet in your home—but with their higher price tags, many homeowners wonder if they’re really worth it. Here’s what to know before you invest, plus how Massachusetts and Rhode Island homeowners  can benefit most. What Is a Whole House Water Filter? A whole house water filtration system  is installed at your home’s main water line, filtering water before it reaches your faucets, showers, and appliances. This ensu

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are increasingly popular—and for good reason. Whether you’re a Massachusetts homebuyer or one looking in Rhode Island, understanding ADUs can help you see value, flexibility, and long-term potential in a property. Let’s dive into what ADUs are, how the laws are evolving, and how they affect homebuyers in both states. What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)? An accessory dwelling unit (ADU)  is a secondary living space on the same property as a

Dollar Tree Ghosts - Would you believe me if I told you both of those little ghosts cost me about $5 bucks? Making these Dollar Tree DIY ghosts also only took about 20 mins to make. I still can’t believe these cute additions to our kitchen were so inexpensive. https://thewhiteoakshop.com/dollar-tree-diy-ghosts/ Crazy Halloween Seed Skull - As we approach the spooky season, I’ve got a quick and easy craft idea to share with you this week. It literally takes a few minutes to m

If you’re planning to sell your home , taking time to prepare it properly can make the entire process smoother and more profitable. A well-presented home attracts more potential buyers, increases perceived value, and can help you secure stronger offers. Use this simple checklist to get your house ready for sale  before you list it with a trusted real estate agent  like Team ROSO | RE/MAX Vantage . 1. Schedule a Pre-Sale Home Inspection Before you list, consider hiring a profe

Kitchen tile floor In the past, choosing the right flooring meant a compromise between looks and durability. But with improvements...

Foyer Your foyer is the first impression guests have of your home — yet it’s often one of the most overlooked spaces in home design. A...

Clogged gutters are more than just an exterior home maintenance issue—they can create serious problems inside your home as well. When...

If you are a first year pool owner, or are in need to brush up your pool care skills, this article is for you! Snow covered pool As cold...

Kitchen tech Shopping for kitchen appliances  can feel overwhelming. With so many ovens, ranges, refrigerators, and cooktops available,...

When designing or remodeling your kitchen in 2025, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right kitchen...

Solar energy In 2025, Massachusetts homeowners can take advantage of a federal solar tax credit (expiring at the end of 2025) and a...

Old roof Have you ever pulled into your driveway, looked up, and wondered, “Do I need a new roof?”  Many homeowners don’t notice changes...

If your asphalt driveway is starting to look dull, cracked, or faded, sealcoating is one of the best ways to restore and protect it. A...

If you live in the Northeast, you know that fall is one of the most important seasons for lawn care. As temperatures cool, your grass...