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THE HOMEBUYER’S CORNER

Insights, updates, and tips for homebuyers and homeowners for all things home life. Learn more about design trends, Smart home tech, new communities, and more.

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Home Design and DIY

Here I talk about all things related to home design.

A kitchen showing the tile backsplash with words on the image that say backsplash tile guide.

Best Backsplash Tile for Kitchen: How to Choose the Right Option

Discover the best backsplash tile for kitchen in our guide: compare materials, styles, and price to design a space you'll love.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Jan 416 min read

Quartz countertops in a kitchen of a home with words on the image that say quartz benefits.

Benefits of quartz countertops: Durable, stylish, low-maintenance

Discover the benefits of quartz countertops: unbeatable durability, low maintenance, and versatile style for any kitchen.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Jan 315 min read

A picture of a kitchen with words on the image that say plan your kitchen.

How to Plan Your Kitchen Layout: A Friendly Guide

Learn how to plan kitchen layout with practical tips for workflow, storage, and design trends. Create a beautiful, functional space you'll love.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 3115 min read

A person measuring a window with a yellow tape measure while holding a pencil to measure for window treatments.

How to Measure for Window Treatments: Pro Tips for a Perfect Fit

Learn how to measure for window treatments like a pro with simple steps for curtains, blinds, and shades—achieve a flawless, custom look at home.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 28, 202512 min read

A home's exterior walls opened up showing insulation.

What Is R Value In Insulation And Why It Actually Matters

Confused about what is R value in insulation? Our guide makes it simple, explaining how it impacts your home's comfort and energy bills. Find out what you need.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 19, 202513 min read

A single family home being framed outside on a sunny day with words on the image that say framing guide.

What Is Framing In Construction And Why It Matters

Learn what is framing in construction and explore major framing types, processes, codes, and customization tips for Maryland homeowners.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 18, 20259 min read

A smartphone in a living room of a home with a home design app on the screen that says style your space.

The Best Home Interior design Apps to Style Your Space

Discover the best home interior design apps to plan your next project. We compare top tools to help you visualize furniture, layouts, and finishes with ease.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 16, 202517 min read

A side by photo of a home getting a room addition and a home being built from the ground up with words that say builder vs contractor.

Difference Between Builder and Contractor: Who to Hire and Why It Matters

Discover the difference between builder and contractor and learn which expert fits your project, plus tips for a smart hire.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 14, 202513 min read

The exterior of a house with the ground dug up in front of it, showing the plumbing rough in.

What Is Rough In Plumbing and Why It Matters

Ever wonder what is rough in plumbing? Our guide explains this hidden network of pipes, what's included, and why it's the true foundation of your home.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 14, 202510 min read

A single family home with a cut away showing what a crawl space can look like below a home.

What is a Crawl Space? A Friendly Guide to Your Home's Foundation

Discover what is a crawl space and why it matters. Learn types, common problems, and maintenance tips in a concise homeowner guide.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 12, 202512 min read

A modern ceiling light in a living room with a wood accent wall and TV with words on the image that says Modern Lighting.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Modern Lighting Fixtures for Home

Discover the perfect modern lighting fixtures for home. This guide explains styles, layering techniques, smart tech, and choosing fixtures for every room.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Dec 8, 202513 min read

Front door entry way of a single family home that has a handrailing installed and words on the image that says aging in place.

Aging in Place Home Modifications Done Right

Discover practical aging in place home modifications to create a safe, stylish, and comfortable forever home. Your essential guide to smart choices.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Nov 29, 202517 min read

A blueprint laying on a wood table next to a laptop, key, smart phone pencils and a pen.

Discover what is a floor plan and how it guides home design

Discover what is a floor plan and how it helps you read layouts, compare spaces, and visualize your ideal home before you buy.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Nov 25, 202510 min read

Best Garage Organization Systems to Reclaim Your Space

Tired of garage clutter? Discover the best garage organization systems, from modular wall panels to heavy-duty cabinets, and transform your space.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Nov 20, 202516 min read

A home with solar panels on the roof with words on the image that says energy efficient home.

Top 10 Energy Efficient Home Features for 2025

Discover the top 10 energy efficient home features to save money and boost comfort. A complete guide for Maryland homeowners on costs, savings & choices.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Nov 18, 202518 min read

A tablet laying on a wood table over paint swatches and a floor plan with words on the tablet screen that says DIY Home Design.

Design Your Own Home Online: A Practical Guide

Ready to design your own home online? Explore our guide on using visualizer tools to customize your dream space, from flooring to fixtures with confidence.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Nov 16, 202515 min read

A picture showing flooring in a home with words on the image that say high traffic floors.

Best Flooring for High Traffic Areas

Discover the best flooring for high traffic areas. We compare durable and stylish options like LVP, tile, and hardwood to help you choose the perfect floor.

Home Design and DIY

Justin McCurdy

Nov 15, 202513 min read