Jeff Somers is a freelancer who has been writing about writing, books, personal finance, and home maintenance since 2012.
Jeff has published nine novels and more than 70 short stories; his story Ringing the Changes was selected for inclusion in The Best American Mystery Stories 2006. In 2018, Jeff published the book Writing Without Rules: How to Write & Sell a Novel Without Guidelines, Experts, or (Occasionally) Pants. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English and previously worked in medical publishing as a production editor.
When not writing, Jeff spends his free time fixing up his old house. He has tackled a wide range of DIY projects, including remodeling a bathroom entirely on his own in two weeks, and building a roof deck that hasn't fallen down yet. You can find him on Bluesky.
MORE BY Jeff
A Step-by-Step Guide to Reviving Old Paint
You can't bring all paint back to life, but that old can might not be a lost cause.
Eight Landscaping Features That Can Lower the Summer Heat in Your Yard
If your outdoor areas get uncomfortably hot, you can use these landscaping techniques to bring the temperature down.
Eight Basic Vehicle Maintenance Tasks You Probably Skip, but Really Shouldn't
If all you’re doing is changing the oil and filters, you’re skipping some really important maintenance that can extend the life of your car and make it more reliable.
10 Warning Signs That Someone Incompetent (or Unethical) Is Flipping a House
Don't get fooled by a quick and dirty flip.
Six Psychological Traps to Avoid When House Hunting
Buying a home should be a fairly clear-cut financial decision—but if you're not careful, it's easy to make an expensive mistake.
Six Unexpected Reasons Your Utility Bills Are Huge
There might be a weird reason behind your skyrocketing monthly bills.
Seven Popular Home Renovations That Will Increase Your Property Taxes
Enjoy those upgrades—and the bigger tax bill that comes with them.
Six Items That Will Maximize Your Carry-On Space
If you're avoiding those luggage checking fees, you'll need some help to cram your stuff into a carry-on.
Nine Ways to Make Your DIY Paint Job Look Professional
If you want your paint job to look like a professional did it, the key is preparation.
Six Ways to Use Landscaping to Enhance Your Home’s Security
If you want to enhance your home’s security, you can install alarms and cameras—but don’t forget to think about your landscaping.
Fake Online Car Dealership Scams Are More Convincing Than People Think
Don't trust a deal that's too good to be true.
Seven Ways to Save More Money on a DIY Home Renovation Project
Saving cash when you’re doing some DIY improvements to your home doesn’t necessarily have to mean cheaper materials.
11 Low-Cost, High-Impact Upgrades You Should Do Immediately After Buying a Home
These projects aren't too costly or difficult, but they'll make a new house feel way more like a proper home.
Seven Ways to Make Your Home's Entryway More Secure
Your front door is the most vulnerable spot in your house. Here’s how to make it as secure as possible.
Use These Seven Tests to Decide If a New Neighborhood Is Right for You
Get an accurate vibe check before it's too late.
Eight Cheap Gadgets That Will Lower Your Grocery Bills
I'll try anything at this point.
14 Things You Absolutely Must Know About Your House
There are certain things you should know about the place you sleep in.
The Best Ways to Prevent Countertop Appliances From Damaging Your Kitchen
We rely on our appliances to make life easier. But if you’re not careful about where you place countertop appliances they can damage your house in some surprising ways.
Six Ways to Prevent a Contractor From Damaging Your House During a Renovation
Home renovations are bound to cause dings, dents, and scratches if you don't take a few precautions first.
Seven Tricks the Car Dealership Finance Guy Might Try to Pull on You
The real struggle to buy a new car starts when the finance guy generates the paperwork.