Canada AM's home and decor expert Karl Lohnes' tackles questions from viewers:

Are there any hands-on projects I can do and apply the costs toward the Home Renovation Tax Credit? I'd like to update my bland and boring en-suite bathroom over the next month or so. Kiersten MacDonald, Fredericton, New Brunswick.

I suggest removing the large plate mirror, repairing the wall underneath (if needed) and adding 2 tall mirrors over each sink. Split the light fixtures over each mirror and this will create individual vanity spaces which is a popular look now. Paint-out the side wall medicine cabinet which will allow it to visually disappear. Add a window topper to the window above the tub to create softness to the room.

Other things: add new hardware to the cabinets, choose a new paint colour and towels to add color to the room.

The bathroom is very neutral, so any colour will help to update it. Pale blues, grey and purples are very popular right now.

Note: invoices for products and services must be dated between January 27, 2009 and February 1, 2010 in order to apply for this year's HRTC.

Homeowner-friendly bathroom projects that apply to the HRTC:

Painting walls, new faucets, upgrade lighting, new vanity and/or countertop, glass shower enclosure kits, wallpaper, qualified labor/service.

Bathroom expenses that DO NOT apply to the HRTC:

Adding shower curtains, towels, artwork, display shelves, bath mats, towel bars or countertop accessories, wall decals and tools. Basically anything purely decorative or that can easily be removed from the room is not applicable to the HRTC.

Product Showcase

The stylish products/ideas that Karl featured on the show:

  • Paint made for kitchens & bathrooms; Behr Ultra Premium Plus; both a primer and paint! B1000-658205, $43
  • Modern light fixtures; Amlite model WB838/2BN,1000-499869 $49 and Eurofase model 17661-010, 1000-655761 $29
  • Hardware for cabinet; Amrock stainless rod pull 1000-105889 $16 and Amrock 3" cup pull 1000-111920 $10
  • Organizer for the shower; Aviva 1000-132014 $40
  • Toilet seat with special features; Bemis 1000-177857 $40,
  • Modern sink tap; model F042-VGKK, 1000-659612 $159,
  • Pre-made drapes as shower curtains; Caravan Stripe-Aqua 1000-499508 and Persian Gold 1000-543135 $29-59,
  • Vinyl tiles as wallpaper; 12x24" vinyl tiles 1000-540561 $2.50, 1000-540620 $4
  • Outdoor rugs as bath mats; 1000-661155 $25.

**All products featured are from Home Depot (www.homedepot.ca).

Home Tax Renovation Credit Information:

Is labour applicable to the HRTC?

Yes, the person doing the work must have a GST account and supply you with a letter detailing the work/service they have provided.

How much tax credit can you claim?

The tax credit is 15 per cent on expenses over $1000. Add up your applicable receipts (to a maximum of $10,000). Deduct $1000 which is the base minimum that you must spend to qualify for the tax credit. Your tax credit will be 15 per cent of the remaining balance. For more information go to: www.cra-arc.gc.ca/hrtc/