According to the Census Bureau, money devoted to home remodels is on the rise, up 9.4 percent in 2014, compared to a 4 percent rise in 2013. The key indicator of the remodeling trend is homeowner confidence that properties are indeed appreciating, and that it is safe to invest in their homes again. Well over […]
Remodel Your Home’s Efficiency
How should you focus your remodeling time and dollars? Should you focus on bathrooms and a kitchen upgrade, or lean toward efficiency improvements? While you will generally see a good return on investment from those hardworking rooms, green-thinking improvements do well to improve your quality of life, and still pay off handsomely in the end […]
Avoid Home Improvement Pitfalls
As you contemplate your remodel, remember there is more to do than simply design a plan and hire someone to do the job. Save yourself time, money and headaches by screening your contractors properly. Be absolutely positive your contractor is licensed, hires qualified workers, and obtains the appropriate permits (or expects you to do so). […]
Remodeling Can Become a Colorful Project
Don’t be afraid to infuse color in your kitchen remodel or new build. Spots of color can spice up vast spaces filled with black, white, and stainless steel fixtures and appliances. Bright colors can also help unify rooms, and are the current trend in contemporary kitchens. Go bold; use color to highlight favorite features, or create […]
Kitchen and Bath Design Trends for 2014
If you’re planning a kitchen or bath remodel, the folks from the National Kitchen and Bath Association propose you keep the following trends in mind: 1) Think less is more: Less ornamentation and country flair; more shiny, ultra-contemporary sleekness. 2) Kitchen countertops are going to be quartz with satin nickel fixtures on the stainless steel […]
Tips to Make Your Home a Perfect Fit
Get the most from your home. Build or remodel by knowing what’s hot, what pays, and what’s green. Kitchens and baths are always the focus of remodels and updates. Kitchen trends include an open space, with a farmhouse feel and oversized island. Bathroom design is now focused toward layered light plans, water conserving plumbing, and high-end […]
Do-it-yourself or Hire Professionals?
A wise homeowner knows the difference between a DIY project, and a job best hired out. Will you need to deal with plumbing, electricity, or drywall installations? You might save time, money, and unforeseen obstacles if you hire some help. Consider whether you have the right tools, and enough time to do the job well. […]
Tips for Fun Outdoor Living Spaces
Enjoy the style and comfort of the indoors in your own backyard; make over your outdoor spaces for fun and entertainment. Consider a few ideas suggested by members of the Greater Houston Builder’s Association (GHBA). Shade is a must; definitely plan for sun protection. When the sun goes down, you’ll need a lighting plan that […]
For Builders Marketing a “Home for Rent by Owner”
Builders looking to use their maintenance skills as owners and landlords of rental properties must attract and retain the right tenants. Consider the following: 1) Income. Interview prospective renters thoroughly, be sure they have enough monthly income to pay rent. 2) Credit. Credit checks don’t always indicate whether person or family is a sound risk. […]
Economic Impact of Homebuilding and Remodeling
Home sweet home. The country’s economy is being helped along significantly by the recent rise in residential homebuilding. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) produced an early May report that revealed home construction’s positive impact. Homebuilding is affecting economic recovery in that it has far reaching implications for a wide variety of business and financial […]