Rain gardens are pretty and ecologicalGardeners who want to create their own rain garden should aim to "keep it simple and just do what makes sense for your own particular needs." Plus, playing with water is always fun!

Nothing fast about home sales in Orland ParkFor Gary Fast, the goodbye has been a long one. In April he put a "for sale" sign in front of his home of 15 years in Orland Park. It's a beautiful home and he expected a buyer to show up fairly soon. Instead he has joined a large club of homeowners whose properties are sitting unsold.

Home prices may be stabilizingThere is a clear trend home prices declines are moderating — another sign the beleaguered housing market is stabilizing, according to data released Tuesday.

How one neighborhood got a sidewalkA few months ago, my old neighborhood got its first sidewalk. Years after I tried and failed to get walks for that neighborhood, I wanted to shout hallelujah.

Two districts await city landmark nods

A treasure trove of vintage houses are part of a pair of new proposed Chicago Landmark districts: the proposed Lincoln Avenue Row House District on the North Side and the Giles-Calumet District on the South Side.

Avoid moving day scams

This summer, thousands of Chicago area residents are bravely turning over all of their worldly possessions to a moving company.

Simple instructions for instant hot water After a recent column on recirculated hot water systems, Ed was flooded with requests for more information on exactly how they can work without doing major work on the existing plumbing system. Here is his attempt to simplify how a basic residential re-circulating hot-water kit can work in your home:

They're back! Carpet squares and shag

Carpet and pad prices have steadily increased about 12 times in 24 months. Rubber and foam pads still require petroleum for their creation. But, even with the increase in price, carpet is still a less expensive floor covering than almost any other installed flooring.

Mirrors brighten corners, show off collectionsCall on the power of mirrors to add sparkle to your home.

Guy deserves some man-space; here's how to get itNeil was feeling a little outnumbered by the five women in his household. There was just a little too much pink. He needed a space of his own, a place to do manly things.

Collectors go for elaborate coverlets In the early 1800s, families did not buy blankets, they made them. Many households had looms to weave coverlets.

Bright ideas for kitchen lighting

A continuing compendium of tips and tricks from Home & Garden Television: