But can you cook on it.......

One of the first things buyers change in their new homes is the appliances - followed by a close second flooring. Many older homes haven't been updated in years, and you may find yourself as the new property owner deciding if that avocado wall range is really worth keeping.

With the technological advances in appliance manufacturing, there are several choices available to the consumer these days. Besides the color or finish of the appliance, there are so many features to choose from that the average home owner could become confused.

I'm no appliance salesman, nor do I get a kickback from Lowe's or Home Depot. But I have bought appliances in the past and I can share a few of my criteria with you.

When choosing a refrigerator, make sure you measure the space in the kitchen BEFORE having it delivered. There's nothing worse than trying to slide your new refrigerator in place only to find that the unit is 3/4 of an inch taller than the cabinet under which it goes. I have employed soap to lubricate the top of the refrigerator and slide it into place.

Ranges offer convection and conventional cooking features these days. It pays to research both and decide which will work best for you. Do you cook large meals on the spur of the moment? Don't want to spend endless hours in the kitchen? Convection ovens are the way to go. I have to be honest here, I don't know anything about convection ovens and don't even know if this is the proper criteria. So, you caught me. Big deal.

Dishwashers I know. I hate to empty the dishwasher. And I hate dishwashers that offer the silverware tray attached to the door of the unit. It is inconvenient. Sure when I saw it in the store I thought it was a good idea - but quickly changed my mind when silverware falls to the bottom of the dishwasher, or the sliding drawers don't close properly because a fork is impeding its progress.

As for microwaves - plain is best. I personally have never cooked a meal in a microwave, but I do remember the microwave craze of the late 70s when microwave cookbooks and cooks were in abundance. It was a novelty. But now we know they are glorified coffee warmers and should be treated as such. The fewer bells and whistles on the microwave, the less there is to break.

I know this probably wasn't very helpful, but sometimes "fluff" content is better than none.

Have a great Monday. You deserve it.