Ms. San Francisco Real Estate (Janice Lee)

How to Redecorate Your Bedroom on a Tight Budget If you're tired of the same old look in your bedroom, there's a good chance you've thought about redecorating. Completely revamping a room can be an expensive undertaking, especially if going for a designer look similar to those featured in a magazine. Rather than shopping at high-end stores to create your ideal decor, whip up your own "thrifty chic" makeover using repurposed or inexpensive materials from salvage shops, craft stores and home improvement retailers. Wall Paint Repainting a bedroom is one way to give the entire space a fresh look, even without replacing any of the belongings within the room. Some designer paint brands are quite expensive, especially if you wish to paint the entire room one color. Instead, check your local paint or home improvement store for a "mistint" section. Many retailers sell paint that was not quite the right shade for another customer at a fraction of what t...

What to Know About Residential Recessed Lighting   Whether you're planning to illuminate your basement or brighten your front porch, recessed lighting provides a stylish and practical lighting solution for the home. However, before you dash out to pick up a set of lights, there are a few things you'll have to take into consideration to make the best choice for your lighting needs -- and to avoid burning down the house. Insulated or Non-Insulated If a recessed light begins to overheat, you face a serious risk of fire. Standard recessed lights, labelled Non-IC rated, require a space that is free from any form of insulation. You'll also need at least 8 inches of height in the joists above the ceiling to accommodate a standard size light enclosure. While these requirements are fine in some situations, such as when you're adding recessed lighting to a non-insulated basement ceiling, a problem arises when the ceiling requires insulation, such as in the attic direct...