I went shopping today with a client that was disinclined to use granite tops in her new kitchen.  As my readers may know, I am a huge

  Dear Mason,

I am updating my kitchen, but want to avoid replacing the cabinets for cost reasons.  The present cabinets are in pretty good shape, but I don't like the appearance.  They're 1960's or 70's knotty pine.  I would like to paint them white.

One painter that we had look at the job told me that the paint might not stick to the old cabinets and that the knots will show through the paint job.  I have heard of painting old wood cabinets before; how should it be correctly done?

Debbie K.  Madison, WI

Debbie:

Cabinet refurbishment often includes partial replacement with factory-finished doors

Hello - doing a kitchen makeover and keeping the original cabinets (30 yrs old but solid wood). Problem is the Kenmore wall oven in a cabinet is 23" - the cabinet holding it is 27". I've searched the net, there are no more 23" wall ovens out there. I can't think of how I can fit one it, or make the existing cabinet any bigger. Replacing the cabinet would be difficult to match color & quality. Any suggestions? Please help!!! Thanks!

Chrissie

Chrissie,

Who writes the "mind-in-the-gutter" titles for these entries, anyway?  (Change the subject)  Hey, I have good news for you.  I just saved a lot

Mason, enjoy your articles. After 12 years in the refacing business, I finally started my own co. What do you think of the laminate and veneer process? Since I am now also doing sales, I could use any sales pitches you might have.  Thanks!

Kirk B Reno, NV

Kirk,

Congratulations on taking the jump to ownership.  Remember, you're not your own boss... now you have so many more bosses - your customers!

I confess that when I first read your inquiry, I felt a bit like Sarah Palin being quizzed on the Bush Plan.  I want to fess up "Gee, gize, I'm not likely a good source to comment on the technicalities

Everyone is familiar with those shows on cable television, following the processes wherein homes are bought and sold.  Designed to Sell, House Hunters, Curb Appeal, and others have become Home & Garden TV phenomena.

While so much of home improvement television is deeply rooted in fantasy, these shows have some real-world applications.  Richmond's own Nancy Frazier of Long & Foster Real Estate is likely one of the most experienced and successful agents in our area.  Over the course of hundreds of listings, sales and buyer representation, Nancy has learned exactly what attracts buyers, and makes