Whether you have decided on working with one of the Big Box Retail giants, like Lowes or Home Depot, a local contractor, a close friend who is a jack of all trades or a construction company on your future home renovation project, the undertaking of the decision to move forward with a home renovation may be one half of the battle, but paying for it is another. Regardless of what the condition is of your current project, and the pictures of what it could be, the final cost will sway you into 2 categories of “need vs. want”. For the sake of keeping this post simple, you have chosen to move forward regardless. With that said, you have options when it comes to getting what you want, even if it is your dream kitchen, your fantasy master bathroom, etc.

Summertime is filled with fun activities from local festivals to neighborhood parties and vacations. These events always seem to have one thing in common – the wonderful food – which can be difficult to avoid with tasty temptations around every corner. However, by taking advantage of the season’s best fruits and vegetables, you can treat yourself to some delicious dishes that are heavy on flavor, yet still waist-line friendly.

(BPT) - As awareness of gluten-free diets continues to grow, more people are searching for ways to make their menus delicious, creative and varied while still staying gluten-free. In the past, forgoing gluten was challenging at best and frustrating at worst, due to a lack of available ingredients and products. But that was then. Now, whether it’s gluten intolerance or a goal of healthier eating that drives your meal plans, you can indulge and enjoy great meals from breakfast to dinner (and everything in between).

(BPT) - Summer has arrived and vacation season is underway. With the kids home from school, and family and friends anxious to visit, you can expect the stress of getting your home ready to be in full swing. Here are a few helpful tips that will make you a successful host and give your guests a warm welcome.

(NAPSI)—Even though I spend my days in front of the camera, I am still a busy mom of two, always on the lookout for the same things most moms are—new, smart resources to help my family thrive and simplify our everyday routine.

(BPT) - Whether you own a cozy cottage or mega mansion, as a homeowner, you likely embrace the outdoor living trend. But when you look at your deck or patio, does it leave something to be desired? By taking a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, you can affordably create outdoor spaces that enhance the style and functionality of your home, plus add to the overall value of the property.

(BPT) - With Father’s Day right around the corner, give Dad a break from his “to do” list by taking care of the easier DIY tasks for him. From simple fixes to bigger projects, sometimes all you need is the right tool at the right time, to get the job done.

(BPT) - Any mom will tell you there are never enough hours in the day to “do it all.” Research indicates working moms spend 10 hours more a week multitasking than working dads – making useful, efficient tools Mom’s secret weapon for getting more done.

(BPT) - The backyard is more than just a lawn to mow or a place for the pooch to run around. Many homeowners are turning their backyards into an extension of their homes, bringing the indoors outside for additional living space.

(BPT) - In this instant-gratification era, instant makeovers – from week-long juice diets to weekend home renovations – are a top 2013 trend. And according to Yahoo! Homes, so are instant kitchen updates achieved by refacing cabinets.

(BPT) - Minor kitchen updates can result in enhanced appearance, enjoyment and increased home value. With a free weekend and a modest budget, you can accomplish some do-it-yourself projects that will give your kitchen a whole new look.

(BPT) - The residential housing market is heating up, but before you post that for-sale sign, consider making upgrades that add style and value to your home. With many buyers seeking wood floors, kitchen upgrades and other add-ons, it’s important for homeowners to highlight these features so their property stands out from the competition in today’s market.

When Pastor Stephen Roser saw the damage that Hurricane Sandy did to his church, he was devastated.

“I thought it was over,” the Rev. Roser recalled feeling. “I thought of all the years this building has stood here and all the sacrifices that had been made to build this place. It was heartbreaking.”

Under a white tent on a perfect summer evening on Tuesday, more than 40 Long Island City restaurants ranging from steak houses like S Prime to LIC bar favorites like Alewife and even neighborhood Chinese takeout like New City Kitchen Express served up their menu favorites during this year’s Taste of Long Island City.

Sponsored by The Chocolate Factory, the event included performances from rapper Champagne Jerry, raffles and appearances by area elected officials, including Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside), who served as an MC.

(BPT) - Few phrases can strike fear into a homeowner’s heart as powerfully as the words “you have a mold problem.” Mold troubles in your home can cause health troubles for your family, and both issues can be notoriously difficult to resolve. It occurs everywhere in nature, but when mold begins growing indoors, it can damage any surface it grows on and cause respiratory problems for those living in the affected house.

(BPT) - The three R’s aren’t just reading, ‘riting and ‘rithmatic. In the summer, they refer to “reorganizing,” “restyling” and “reviving” your home. It’s the perfect time to bring a summery, comfortable feeling to your home’s interior. Luckily, you don’t need to redo every room or throw out all your furniture to get a wonderful seasonal change. Spend a weekend giving your living spaces a lighter, fresher feel. At the end, you might even think you’re on a summer vacation.

(BPT) - “The bathroom sink drain is clogged!”

Bigger isn't always better in the real estate world, and what's more, it's not always possible. With more baby boomers downsizing from McMansions to smaller, more manageable houses, and a growing number of people opting to rent rather than buy, many families are looking for new ways to decorate, design and work with smaller spaces.

Whether you've signed a lease agreement or purchased a house, moving into your first home is an exciting time. For many people, it's their first opportunity to express their personal style by decorating their own space.