Dear Lifehacker, I just moved into my own place! It's my first home, and I'm excited. However, I know there are repairs I'll have to do myself, and I have some improvements I'd like to make too. Problem is, I don't know where to begin. How do I use these tools, and where do I even get them? How do I make sure my work is safe and not damaging my home? Does anyone offer training for new homeowners?

Whether you're looking to boost the value of your property, need a separate lodging for your relative or just want to build a man cave/femme den, a granny flat is definitely the way to go. However, there are quite a few misconceptions about the planning and building process. What is and isn't allowed? We take a look at the legalities.

All it takes is one small mistake and your home improvement project can run way over budget. If you want to keep your remodel from eating up your savings, avoid these major missteps before construction even begins.

Older homes have character, often boasting features like architectural windows and solid plaster walls that you don't find in many newer buildings. When it's time to renovate, though, older houses present costly challenges that aren't so charming. Here are the biggest and most common renovation issues you should prepare for.

If the TV ratings for The Block are anything to go by, Australians have a keen interest in house renovations. Home improvement solutions company HalfPrice has assembled some fascinating facts and figures on this national obsession -- from the most popular building projects to the most profitable places to renovate in Australia.

When you're renovating, it's best to save the trim so you avoid the hassle of having to find a replacement. But first, you have to remove the nails. Here's a great tip for doing it without damaging your wood.

Making improvements to your home can sometimes raise the value of your house. However, some renovations aren't worth the cost it takes to make them. These are some of the worst offenders.

Few home improvement projects go as perfectly as planned, and sometimes they turn into expensive disasters. Whether it was a DIY project or you hired a contractor, come share your tale of woe with us.

The kitchen is the heart of your home and the most important room for most homebuyers. It's also the most stressful room to try to upgrade or remodel, thanks in large part to the seemingly countless options you have for countertops, cabinets and flooring materials. Let us walk you through your choices.

The average cost of a major kitchen remodel is $US56,768, according to Remodeling Magazine. You could possibly control costs during your remodel by knowing where the money goes and how your choices affect the final cost.

If there's one common theme running throughout every home improvement project, it's this: unforeseen changes and their (possibly hefty) expenses will happen. Here are some home improvement surprises you should beef up your budget for.

Many home projects are complicated and time-consuming enough to call in a professional. And some projects are surprisingly simple and worth tackling on your own. We want to know: what home improvement or renovation projects are worth doing yourself to save some cash?

It doesn't matter if you've bought a newly-built home, a tiny apartment or a fixer-upper > -- owning your own place brings out the home improvement itch in us all. Here are 10 pieces of advice to help turn your dwelling into a better home.

Choosing the right paint colour can be tricky, and lighting can change the results. Apartment Therapy explains how different types of light bulbs can affect the way your paint looks.

If you live in a rental, your landlord may be reluctant to spend money on expensive upgrades, even if they're necessary. But a few simple and cheap steps are all it takes to make a huge improvement.

Dear Lifehacker, I'm getting ready to renovate my home. While my options for hardware finishes and cabinet styles are seemingly infinite, my budget is not. Where should I spend more and where should I cut back to get the biggest bang for my buck?

MagicPlan is a design app for Android and iOS that lets you create 3D floorplans with your phone. Whether you work in real estate, are in the process of renovating your house or just want to measure your bedroom, this app is a great time-saving solution with a slick interface to boot.

iOS: Two of the most challenging things about home renovations are figuring out what you want to do with the space and estimating how much it's going to cost you. Zillow Digs solves both of those problems by showcasing over 400,000 project photos plus cost estimates.

Dear Lifehacker, My home is crying out for a renovation. I'd love to try my hand at doing some of the upgrades myself and save money in the process, but I'm sure some projects are better left to the professionals. What do I need to know before I get started? Thanks, Worried Weekend Warrior