Page 24 THE VILLADOM TIMES II • April 27, 2011 ����������������������������� (ARA) It’s the time of year when homeowners look around their properties and create project lists. Some projects are minor, like changing the accents in the bathroom. Other projects can end up being involved remodels that require the right tools and strategies. If you’ve committed yourself to a home improvement project, congratulations! You’ve won half the battle. The next hurdle to overcome is successfully preparing for the task at hand. Minor adjustments can save time and money down the road, so it’s important that you do your homework in advance. Before getting started, consider the tips below. These handy hints can help you maximize project results and avoid unnecessary stress. Prioritize: Put simply, don’t bite off more than you can chew. When taking on home projects, remember to consider 3-2-11 karen/janine quality over quantity. There is no sense in rushing through one project just to cross it off the list. Decide what upgrades HomeImpDecBanner6x are most important and pay them their due diligence. Iden6 x .75” tify what requires your immediate attention, and what can wait. More importantly, recognize when you’re in over your head and don’t be afraid to enlist professional help. Update your tool box: We create more work for our- Tips for tackling home improvement projects with ease CIRINO LANDSCAPING Full Service Landscape Company Are you ready for Spring? Spring Clean-Up Personal Service Free Estimate New Clients Only • w/Coupon • Exp 5/31/11 • Not Combinable ANY 15% OFF SERVICE Tom Cirino ASK ABOUT OUR PRE-PAYMENT SEASONAL DISCOUNT! Call 201-891-0955 For Information selves by not investing in quality tools that address multiple project needs. The right tool can give you professional looking results while dramatically reducing frustration. For instance, the new RotoZip ZipSaw is outfitted to handle applications in a variety of materials, including tile, wood, and metal. From installing new flooring to removing old bathroom grout, this powerful cutting tool combines the best features of angle grinders and jamb saws to tackle straight, curved, notched, and flush cuts with ease. Plan a budget: Identify how much you’re able to spend and stick to it. There is no sense in taking on debt or refinancing your home just to keep up with the Joneses. If you can’t afford the kitchen remodel this year, consider investing in smaller updates that won’t go unnoticed. You’d be surprised how updated appliances or a simple paint job can add new life to your home. There is always the risk of unforeseen costs, so research common project pitfalls and try to eliminate those possibilities. Remember to incorporate the cost of tools if you are not hiring help. Set regular goals: The home improvement process can be overwhelming, so it’s important to set goals for each portion of the project. These ongoing checkpoints are rewarding and can help motivate you to keep going. Remember to use these intervals to take a break and clear your head. The time off allows you to come at the next step fresh, ultimately minimizing fatigue and frustration. Regular breaks also enable you to monitor your project supplies and stock up as needed. Don’t let project logistics intimidate you to push off home updates yet another season. Home improvement is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time and trust that the end result will be well worth the effort. With the right tools and proper preparation, you can avoid costly mistakes and tackle that to-do list like a pro. 4-20-11 pat/janine Cirino2x2.5SpringColor(4-20-11) 2x2.5” ���������������� ������������� The Villadom TIMES is giving you the opportunity to present your quality services and merchandise in its special Home Improvement & Decorating section. In The Villadom TIMES, you’ll get the exposure you need in 56,000 homes right in your market area. And, as always, your Villadom TIMES advertising message is conveniently delivered each week by US mail to every residence in the 12 Bergen County towns listed below. ONE SOURCE FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE NEEDS ������������� ��������� WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY ������ ������� ������� �������� ����� ������ YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSPAPER SINCE 1988 ������������ Call The Villadom TIMES today to place your advertisement. RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSURED • BONDED ZONE 1 - Wyckoff, Midland Park, Franklin Lakes ZONE 2 - Ridgewood, Glen Rock ZONE 3 - Ho-Ho-Kus, Allendale, Waldwick, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, ZONE 4 - Ramsey, Mahwah 4-27-11 karen/janine HomeImpDeco3x5