(StatePoint) As a packed summer sports calendar gets underway, many fans are rethinking what it means to watch the big game. From international soccer tournaments and tennis championships to baseball, golf and other live events, summer has become a season built around shared viewing experiences.

(StatePoint) Ready to redesign your home? Whether you have only a vague notion of how you want your spaces to look or a very specific vision, relying on the expertise of a professional can help you bring your dream home to life. Before choosing and hiring an interior designer, though, be sure to take the following factors into consideration:

(StatePoint) As the country braces for a predicted “hotter-than-normal” summer, homeowners will face financial pressure from higher cooling costs compared to last year. The good news? This easy and affordable DIY checklist contains money-saving upgrades that boost energy efficiency around the home, keeping summer bills in check throughout the scorching season.

(StatePoint) When it comes to DIY moves, snafus are almost expected. Perhaps you have your own horror stories about broken furniture, last-minute cancellations or friends who mysteriously weren’t available on moving day.

(StatePoint) Cats are famously low-maintenance companions. They don’t need walks, they entertain themselves, and they’re perfectly happy ignoring you for hours at a time. But as any devoted cat owner knows, low-maintenance doesn’t mean no impact. From the food in their bowl to the litter in their box, cats leave a measurable mark on the planet. The good news is that a few small, practical changes can add up to something meaningful — without requiring a lifestyle overhaul or a bigger budget. Here’s where to start:

(StatePoint) Whether you’re splashing under the sun with family or hosting a pool party with friends, having a pool or spa in your backyard is a guaranteed memory-maker.

(StatePoint) A new homebuying quiz reveals a stark disconnect: most aspiring first-time buyers believe they’re ready to buy a home, but fundamental knowledge gaps suggest otherwise.

(StatePoint) Summer is peak moving season—and peak pricing season, too. In fact, nearly half of all U.S. moves take place between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends each year, according to U-Haul, and, with gas prices on the rise, costs are expected to reach new heights.

(StatePoint) The flavors and aromas of global cuisines are closer than ever — no passport or flights required.

(StatePoint) Buying a home is one of the largest purchases most people will make in their lives, and taking out a home loan is a common way to finance the purchase. This primer on home loans explains the mortgage basics, including what a mortgage is, typical types of loans, and the concept of shopping for a lender.

(StatePoint) As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, backyards across the country are gearing up for a milestone summer — and the grill is once again at the heart of the celebration.

(StatePoint) When homeowners doing work on their property consider a cheaper route, for example, hiring a contractor who doesn’t want to pull permits, they may not realize the risk they are taking. But they should know that there is no “undo” button on a disaster.

(StatePoint) Everyone knows the basics of home maintenance, but there are several less obvious hazards that can put people and property at risk. Learning more about building code safety is your best bet for protecting your home and the people within it.

(StatePoint) Lawn striping isn’t just a terrific way to elevate curb appeal, it’s key to a healthier lawn.

(StatePoint) Playing with fire has never been hotter when it comes to flavor and summer grilling. A new grilling trend report, released by the McCormick brand, spotlights three red-hot trends centering on new ways grillers are layering flavors, expanding the sizzle beyond steak, and taking advantage of the transformation of appliances.

(StatePoint) In addition to offering easy access to your home’s outdoor spaces, patio doors can enhance your life in a number of other key ways. Whether you’re installing patio doors for the first time or replacing existing ones, here are some of the advantages that patio doors provide, along with insights into maximizing these benefits:

(StatePoint) How short to mow is a commonly debated topic, and getting it right is not only tricky, but critical to a healthy lawn.

(StatePoint) Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous, flammable gas that is impossible to see, smell or taste — making it easy to assume you’re safe when danger may already be present. So, whether you’ll be vacationing away from home, or planning a “staycation” this summer, take extra steps to help protect yourself and your loved ones from CO.

(StatePoint) A great backyard is more than a place for shade and fun; it’s a sanctuary that should offer total peace of mind for the whole family, which includes your pets, too!

(StatePoint) With spring here, homeowners are tending their lawns to boost curb appeal and create an ideal space for kids, pets and gatherings.

(StatePoint) Even if you have lush, green grass, your lawn may still suffer from bare spots. These bare spots can happen for a variety of reasons, and when they do, seldom regrow on their own.

(StatePoint) Qualifying for a mortgage can be intimidating. By learning what lenders assess when deciding whether to make a loan, you can take actionable steps now toward homeownership.

(StatePoint) Refinancing a home can be a smart move – if you time it well and understand the factors involved.