(ARA) - It's most likely one of the top reasons you've been putting off that bathroom makeover or remodel -- you're not sure where to begin. What color theme will you use? Do you want a pedestal sink or a furniture-style vanity? Will you incorporate any green faucets or fixtures? And, with all the decisions to make, will it all look good together and still perform well?

These questions, and many others, should be at the top of your list when you start mapping out your next bathroom project. Luckily, many manufacturers have made it easier in recent years for you to answer those questions in a painless, affordable way.

(ARA) - Renovating your home can be daunting. The last thing you want to worry about is the possible lead-related health risk of some common renovation tasks. Sanding, demolition and siding and window replacement can all disturb lead-based paint, placing you and your family at risk of lead poisoning.

Because of these risks, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed the Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Program to help protect homeowners. As of April 22, the legislation requires that workers, including contractors, painters and maintenance personnel, be trained to use lead-safe work practices. Additionally, renovation firms must be EPA-certified.

(ARA) -- Living on a budget is the norm, rather than the exception, in the current economy. Whether you're trying to entice potential homebuyers or just want to give your living space a quick spruce up, here are a few tips for making a big impact in the look of your home without breaking the bank:

* Start small. Small improvements - like a fresh coat of paint or an attractive new floor - truly update a home because people's eyes tend to notice surface areas first. Experts agree that these upgrades make all the difference to prospective buyers as well. According to the International Association of Home Stagers, investing in small upgrades can increase a home's value as much as 7 percent - and a new floor has been proven to return nearly twice the value for every dollar spent.

(ARA) - With warm weather months here, it's the perfect season for the annual ritual of performing a spruce up around your home. Planting gardens, improving the look of your lawn and maybe applying a fresh coat of paint to the window trims are on your to-do list. An appealing exterior offers an invaluable first impression to neighbors, friends, and - if you're trying to sell, which many do prior to the beginning of school in the fall - perspective buyers.

In fact, small-scale exterior projects are the most profitable during resale, according to the 2009-10 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). "Once again, this year's [report] highlights the importance of a home's first impression," says NAR President Vicki Cox Golder.