September ushers in a new incentives program for homeowners, builders and contractors, installing solar energy systems on new homes. The California Energy Commission is now the only administrator of the program titled the New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP). Investors will enjoy a more consistent system, as there will be just one point of contact, and […]
Home Remodeling Rebounds as Economy, Housing Market Improve
The positive turn in the American economy has signaled the go ahead for remodels among many of the nation’s homeowners. No longer concerned that fixing up their homes might steal funds from other more necessary needs, kitchens, baths, and home exteriors are now receiving stylish makeovers. Contractors are fielding a constant steam of calls as […]
Two Sides of Curb Appeal: Beauty and Performance
Curb appeal can be yours, when you toss the paintbrush and embrace vinyl siding. Siding has been the exterior choice for homeowners for more than two decades. Without the hassle of touchups and repainting every few years, siding provides a durable, low-maintenance finish doesn’t require much more than an occasional good spray with a garden […]
Home Remodeling Rebounding
In the current housing market, the primary focus is not buying and selling. It’s all about remodeling. Homeowners are much more likely to work, and rework what they already have, rather than look for something new. The home improvement industry has benefitted significantly, as homeowners have showered billions on their projects. Most of this is […]
Home Improvements Can Add Resale Value
When investing in your home, it makes sense to choose home projects with the highest return. Which are the best remodeling efforts? Try a modest bathroom remodel or refresh, costing no more than $10,500, which shows a return of more than 100 percent. Consider landscaping with low maintenance in mind. Exterior fixes like paint, or […]
Remodeling Real Talk: 10 Steps to Tackling Your Next Project
Your home remodel dreams can come true with a few of the following professionally-endorsed tips: 1. Research. Compare project types, trends, and costs. 2. Budget. Determine how much you should spend, and stick to it. 3. Be Inspired. Put together a dream design file. 4. Seek Expertise. Obtain a reputable contractor. 5. Be absolutely sure. […]
Notes on Perfection
Is perfection really necessary when building a home? Do you need to drive yourself, and your architect, crazy just to make your home look like a magazine picture? A picture, by the way, that is generally unattainable for less than $800.00 per square foot. The effort of building a home seems to bring out an […]
The Best DIY Home Projects
If you’re “pretty handy” at home, enjoy DIY projects, and are looking for a few remodeling projects that could keep your budget in the black, consider these construction pointers: · Tackle tasks you’ve done before. Use your experience well; contract out the rest. · Don’t do any job that puts you or your home in […]
Sellers Should Consider ‘Bang for the Buck’
Do you really need marble floors and a sauna in that bathroom? Save time and money when it comes to remodeling your bath. You’ll see higher returns if you skip the luxury, and choose finishes and features practically. Your budget will thank you for planning well, and maximizing high-impact projects. A kitchen freshened up with […]
Why Is My House So Hot?
Is attic insulation, and poor attic ventilation, the reason why your house is so hot? Probably not. There isn’t much evidence to suggest that attic ventilation will have much impact on your cooling bills. Attic fans don’t cool; they prevent moisture. More than likely, your air-conditioning equipment needs a tune up. Also consider the fact that […]
