Study Shows Homeownership Affordability at Record High
According to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI), homes were more affordable during the first quarter of 2011 than at any other time during the past two decades. The HOI shows the percentage of homes sold across the country that families earning the national median income of $64,400 can afford. Of all the new and existing homes sold within the first three months of the year, 74.6 percent were affordable to these median-income... Read More
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Keep Your Air Conditioner Running Efficiently this Summer
Summer temperatures are rising, and so are energy costs. Faced with skyrocketing energy bills, many families are shutting off their air conditioners. But a cool home doesn't have to come at the expense of a family's savings. Here's how to lower your energy bills without sweating through the summer.
Keep the Heat Outside
To lower your energy bills, make sure your home is sealed tight against the outdoor heat... Read More
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Secrets of a Solid Home Inspection
Courtesy of ARA Content
Selling, buying or just putting a house on the market may raise many questions. Can I get a good price? Are there any problems I should fix prior to listing my house? If I buy this house, will I encounter problems that may make me regret my decision?
The sale price of a house depends on many factors, including the market, location, size of the property, age of the house, condition of the structure, what appliances might be included in the sale... Read More |
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Key Areas to Focus When Preparing
Your Home for Sale
When your home is on the market, you want to give it every advantage, yet reserve enough funds for your new home. Let's assume you've painted the walls and trim—arguably the best use of your money when selling your home. These ideas go a bit beyond, yet are easy on the budget.
Kitchen and Bathroom 911
Painting cabinets goes a long way to brighten up a kitchen or any storage area. If you DIY, read up on painting materials and techniques, but don't be too intimidated. It is a time-consuming task, but well worth... Read More |
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Pest-Proof Your Home Against Summertime Critters
Courtesy of NewsUSA
In the heat of summer, unwanted pests are making their way into cooler homes, and they are more than just a nuisance. Pests pose risks to people's health and property, so it is important for homeowners to take steps to prevent infestations. There are many ways in which homeowners can "pest-proof" their homes as part of their summer-maintenance routine. Taking preventive measures early in the season is the best approach to keeping pests at bay.
"As the warmer weather brings back numerous pests, early summer is the perfect time for homeowners to thoroughly inspect their homes as part of seasonal maintenance," says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA)... Read More |
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