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Certified Home Inspector & Renovation Consultant
Katlyn Polino writes from the trenches of real home renovation experience. Over the past decade, she's personally managed four major home renovations, two kitchen remodels, and countless repair projects while building expertise as a certified home inspector and renovation consultant.
Katlyn Polino writes from the trenches of real home renovation experience. Over the past decade, she's personally managed four major home renovations, two kitchen remodels, and countless repair projects while building expertise as a certified home inspector and renovation consultant.
What sets Katlyn apart isn't just professional knowledge, but hard-earned wisdom from living through contractor delays, budget overruns, and supply chain nightmares. She understands the frustration of watching material costs spike mid-project and the relief of finding a contractor who actually shows up on time.
Katlyn's approach combines homeowner empathy with market-savvy expertise. She tracks current economic factors affecting renovation costs, from tariffs on building materials to contractor availability shortages. Her articles prepare readers for real-world challenges while providing actionable strategies to navigate today's complex renovation landscape.
Having renovated homes in three different states, Katlyn understands regional cost variations and local building code quirks. She maintains active relationships with contractors, suppliers, and fellow homeowners to stay current on market conditions affecting project timelines and budgets.
Katlyn's mission is simple: help homeowners make smart renovation decisions based on current realities, not outdated assumptions.
Green roofs offer energy savings, sustainability, and increased home value when built with quality materials and professional expertise. Explore 2025 costs, system options, structural requirements, and return on investment in this comprehensive guide.
In 2025, smart lighting delivers energy efficiency, security, and convenience to homeowners despite higher costs from tariffs and supply issues. Options range from simple DIY bulb replacements to full professional systems, providing rapid returns and improved resale potential. Early planning ensures efficient projects and lasting benefits.
Smart thermostats in 2025 offer enhanced comfort, energy savings of 10 to 15 percent, and increased resale value, with full payback often in under four years. Installation costs $350 to $900, best during spring or fall. Check compatibility, explore options, and time your upgrade for maximum benefits.
Energy costs continue to climb in 2025, making it essential to install energy-efficient windows. Explore options from affordable double-pane Low-E to premium triple-pane and composite frames, with insights on costs, returns, and expert installation tips to reduce bills and enhance home value.
Rising costs and shifting family needs position multi-generational home layouts as a 2025 essential. Essential designs feature separate entrances, accessible bathrooms, secondary kitchens, and soundproofing, improving comfort, safety, and property value. Remodels typically cost $85,000 to $160,000, delivering strong ROI through savings and family bonds.
