According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the Remodeling Market Index (RMI) held steady at 57 in the fourth quarter of 2013. This is the same level as the third quarter of 2013 and the highest reading since the first quarter of 2004.
An RMI above 50 …
A: To save both time and money, some people avoid getting building permits. But most cities require them. Besides ensuring safety during construction – housing inspectors sometimes stop by to check on the progress of projects at key points – they are also a source of revenue.
Cities charge …
Building a custom home today involves much more than specialized floor plans. Homeowners have endless options for special features and unique touches that can turn a home into a personal oasis.
“Most people who build a custom home prefer to be able to influence the design, appliances, fixtures and …
Earlier this month, we talked about downsizing kitchens—this isn't a move everyone wants or needs to make. So in our next two reports, we'll give equal time to those looking at morphing their kitchen from a practical utility space for food preparation, to a center of attention and functionality.
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Remodeling the kitchen. When you decide to tackle this daunting undertaking, you want to do it right. And, you're not alone. Forty-nine percent of homeowners plan to completely gut their existing kitchen and start with a clean state, according to a recent survey by Houzz.com. Regardless of the scope of …
Consumers have more options than ever before when choosing materials for their home's exterior. Siding has evolved from a lower-quality choice to a stylish solution for homeowners looking to update their home's exterior on a budget thanks to relatively inexpensive material and labor costs paired with an abundance of new …
With over half of all homeowners planning to make some type of improvement to their home this year, the question is, what exactly are they changing? Homeowners are choosing to wait until the high temperatures break and cooler weather hits to begin outdoor work, and home improvement companies are looking …
A recent national survey about home improvement projects indicates that more people will be renovating or establishing home working spaces and play rooms this fall and winter. So I tapped a couple of experts on the subject, who will convey some important tips and ideas in the next two columns.
…Lived in your home for years? Love your neighborhood? The thought of moving away from your home's comfort, warmth and memories can be unsettling. Instead of moving out, consider updating and remodeling your home to accommodate your future needs.
Eight-nine percent of Americans 55 and older have embraced this …
Remodeling a home can be expensive and exhausting. But you can breathe new life into tired rooms with just a small budget, a little sweat equity, and a healthy imagination.
California decorating consultant Gina Fulton suggests eight quick fixes to freshen the look and increase the functionality of an …