Articles by TJ Kidder
T.J. Kidder is a home remodeling specialist dedicated to helping homeowners make informed, confident decisions about their renovation projects. Drawing on years of experience in research, homeowner education, and remodeling best practices, he provides practical insights that help clients better understand planning, budgeting, design, and construction.
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How to Design My Own Home: Working with a Contractor to Design Your Perfect Home
Designing your own home is a dream for many homeowners; imagining a space that reflects your lifestyle, personality, and daily routine. It’s exciting to envision the possibilities, from how natural light flows through each room to selecting the right layout for entertaining or privacy. But once you move from ideas to execution, the process can […]
Are Home Renovations Tax Deductible?
Whether you’re updating a kitchen or adding new features, you’ve probably wondered if home renovation has tax deductible options that can help you save money. The truth is that certain home improvement projects can yield valuable tax benefits, but not every type of improvement automatically lowers your tax bill. Understanding what home renovations are tax […]
6 Home Architecture Trends to Watch Out For in 2025
The world of home architecture styles is ever-evolving, and 2025 promises a fresh surge of home and architectural trends that emphasize sustainability, innovation, and aesthetic appeal. From the latest new home construction trends to emerging architectural practice methods, homeowners, architects, and developers have much to look forward to. Below are six new home architecture trends […]
Aging in Place Remodeling Tips for Homes
You’ve spent years creating memories in your home. It’s where you’ve hosted family gatherings, celebrated holidays, and built a life you love. But now, as you consider the future, you’re wondering how to adapt your cherished space to meet your changing needs. Aging in place remodeling offers the perfect solution — allowing you to stay […]
Multi-Generational House Plans: The Shift to Multi-Generational Living
TL;DR: Exploring multi generational home plans? This guide breaks down how to design a home that balances shared living with privacy, whether you’re building new or remodeling your existing space. Learn how modern layouts support evolving family needs. Key Takeaways: Multi generational house plans with apartment separate entrance offer privacy and independence. Smart floor plans for […]
2025 Home Remodeling Trends
Your dream home transformation starts with understanding what’s fresh and forward-thinking in design, and as we settle into 2025, home remodeling trends are leaning toward personalized spaces that blend comfort with sophistication. We’ve been bringing dream homes to life for over 30 years at Lars Home Remodeling & Design, and we’re excited to share what’s […]
Gen X Guide: Remodeling Your Home to Accommodate Aging Parents in San Diego
As your parents age, you may find yourself faced with the responsibility of creating a living environment that supports their changing needs. If you’re part of Generation X and are preparing to have your parents live with you, modifying your home to make it safe and accessible is key. This guide focuses on practical remodeling […]
Creating The Perfect Adu For Your Parents: A Guide For San Diego Homeowners
You’re a homeowner in San Diego and you’ve decided to create an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for your parents. It’s a thoughtful, practical solution that provides them with independence while keeping them close. But where do you start? There’s much to consider from evaluating space to understanding local regulations, planning the design and layout, ensuring […]
How To Plan And Build An Adu For Aging Parents In San Diego: A Comprehensive Guide
You’re looking to create a comfortable, secure space for your aging parents in San Diego, but where do you start? This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step. You’ll learn about local building regulations, get a handle on cost estimates, and delve into design aspects that make an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) functional and […]
Inheriting A Home In San Diego? Here’s What Gen X Needs To Know
Inheriting a home in sunny San Diego? You’re not alone. Many of your fellow Gen Xers are navigating this path too. It’s a unique situation, packed with potential advantages, but also a few hurdles. By understanding the legalities, assessing the property’s true value, making informed decisions, and knowing how to deal with potential tax issues, […]
