Green Daily

If the economy wasn't so bad this would be the best time of year to sell your home. Alas, the economy sucks. But, if you need to move, you need to move. Slump or no, you can still ready your home for sale with your health and the earth's in mind.

Consider using sustainable wood products as you finish the crown moldings or deck on your house. DIY host Brad Staggs is pitching for the Southern Pine Association. He says Southern Pine is sustainable, strong wood forested from healthy forests. If you prefer a tropical wood, check that it's been harvested sustainibly by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Looking for new items that might dress up a room? Or want to use salvaged wood? You have options, depending on where you live. In the UK the architectural and antique site Salvo could help you find pieces from libraries, hospitals and schools that could make beautiful moldings, frames, doors and furniture. In Chicago there's Island Girl Salvage.

Curbside appeal, like it or not, is a major factor in the likelihood of a sale. This might be just the excuse you need to start a box garden, one that shows off native plants and vegetables. By planting in boxes you can transport it the second you sell the house.

My favorite part about moving is painting. Even as a poor graduate student living in a hovel for six months I painted. If you plan to sell, you may actually have a greater need for painting than I did. Check out EarthEasy for suggestions on non-toxic paints and stains. Real Milk Paint, odd as it sounds, is a legitimate product used for centuries. In it you'll find, curdled milk, lime and pigment.