8 Simple Steps to Add Curb Appeal
 Upgrading your home's exterior does not call for massive renovations; in fact, many projects can be accomplished in a day or a weekend. Check out these clever, thrifty renovations to create a welcoming home.
1. Keep it tidy and trim.
Mowing your grass and cleaning up your landscaping will keep your yard looking flawless. Trim your shrubs and pull weeds from your flowerbeds. It doesn't cost a penny for this... Read More
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Builder Confidence and New Home Sales
Are Up
 New home sales are up—and so are builder expectations. According to data released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau, new home sales have jumped by 8.3 percent in June, the fastest increase seen in the past five years. Three of the four housing regions—the Northeast, South, and West—saw decent gains in new home sales activity. Only the Midwest saw a decline of 11.8 percent... Read More
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Living Large in Smaller Spaces: The Shrinking, Changing American Home
 The American home may be shrinking, but not the Great American Dream. Americans are still living large, just doing so in smaller spaces.
To some trend-watchers, the downscaling of the American home comes as good news. Architects, designers and social observers say our willingness to resize our floor space means Americans are rethinking the way we really live and how we use whatever space... Read More |
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Americans Expect the Housing Market to Continue Improving
 Mortgage interest rates are rising, but will higher monthly payments deter Americans from their dreams of home ownership? According to Fannie Mae's July 2013 National Housing Survey, 74 percent of respondents believed market conditions were favorable to home buyers, while 40 percent believed the current market is a good place to sell a house. Both results match the survey high.
Climbing Mortgage Rates
Sixty-two percent of survey respondents believe rates will climb in the next year. When asked if they thought it would be easy for them to get a home mortgage today, 45 percent... Read More |
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7 No-Fail Decorating Tricks for Small Spaces
Don't let a small home suppress your creativity. Here are eight decorating tips to consider when touching up your not-so-spacious abode.
1. Add height with curtains.
Hang curtains and draperies close to the ceiling. This gives the illusion of height to a small room and draws the eye upward.
2. Mirrors are your best friend.
Their reflective quality helps to open up dark, cramped corners. Instead of displaying wall art, consider hanging mirrors. Look around for inexpensive vintage mirrors at flea markets, garage sales, and antique shops. Come up with an interesting arrangement... Read More
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