Every Industry has its charlatans and con-men ready to take advantage of an unsuspecting customer; and the Home Improvement Industry is no exception.

Every year homeowners are duped by con-men into paying for home “improvements” that never happen, or are so slipshod they should never have happened.  In one State alone, more than 3,000 cases of home-repair frauds are reported annually. Another state has about 500 complaints filed each month, and they’re not alone.  

So how to know who is a valid Contractor, and who is merely a CON-tractor? It’s really not that hard.

First, avoid the “lone workman” at your door who has “extra materials” and offers a bargain fee for some home improvement or repair. Typically, the materials are inferior and the workmanship is shoddy; so you end up paying even more money to fix and clean up the mess that you would with a reputable company.  

Avoid someone who asks for “money up front” before starting work, without a contract or work proposal/agreement; or ads that say “Free Inspection! Pay ONLY if we find a problem”. The funny thing is; they ALWAYS find a “problem”, and it’s ALWAYS critical and it’s always EXPENSIVE!  

But the good thing is, you can easily avoid these scams by always dealing with an established, licensed and reputable contractor with a known “track record” for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. 

In the greater Washington, DC/ Baltimore area, that company is Houseworks Unlimited. With 30 years of experience in Home Renovation, and with satisfied repeat business from former clients as a benchmark for their quality and service, there’s no need to worry about getting a fair price and the best quality workmanship.

No need to worry about the “CON” when you have an established PRO like Houseworks Unlimited working for you.   

There are many reasons to renovate a home. The primary reason is to add or improve living space to accommodate a growing family, but there are other reasons as well.

You might want to:

• Add an office or game room.
• Change the configuration of the house to take advantage of natural light, shade, ventilation or perspective: the scenic views from your windows.
•  Update and remodel to take advantage of environmentally “greener” technology.
• To give the home a more modern look, or a larger living space.
• Alternatively, you may want to restore an older house’s original architecture, and/or adding modern bathrooms and kitchen and facilities.

If you intend to sell your home, you’ll want a home “makeover” to attract buyers. Consider the needs and tastes of potential buyers: not everyone want a swimming pool, a gazebo or pink bathtubs. Home renovation can also include landscaping to improve the surroundings and the view, and ensuring the renovation retains original style of the house and neighborhood; buyers want a home that conforms to the “look” of a neighborhood. A house that doesn’t “fit”, doesn’t sell. 

Before renovating, assess the needs and the amount of labor required. Most people are capable of painting and wallpapering, and perhaps some basic carpentry; but avoid the DIY (Do-It –Yourself) syndrome of overreaching.  Most DYI-ers don’t know the building and environmental codes and regulations that affect a renovation project, and too many end up paying more for their mistakes than they would pay for a professional renovator.

A professional Home Renovation Contractor, like Houseworks Unlimited , with over 30 years experience, has the skills, resources and knowledge to comply with all local and federal building codes, and can  complete a full renovation of a house on time, and on budget.

Historic homes provide a visible link to the history of a town and the nation, and also serve as a lesson on how people lived and the worked. Older and historical homes can be  found in urban as well as in rural areas, but because of age and damage, some remain empty. Restoring these homes provides low-cost housing and is often a means for revitalizing urban areas. As such, they are often bargains, which a dedicated owner can then renovate and improve.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sees a primary function for restoring older and/or historical homes as a mean of providing housing for single families and and means of restoring and revitalizing the neighborhood.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation offers grants that can defray the cost of renovation, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers several low-interest loans.  Its 203K plan allows homeowners to borrow up to 110% of the appraised value of the home for renovation. The funds are released as the restoration work continues allowing work to start immediately; and the home is insured while the restoration work is carried out.

One misconception is that a house must be hundreds of years old to be considered “historical”. The National Registry of Historic Places requires that the home be at least 50 years old and look “nearly the same” as it did when built.

But the homeowner needs to consider the scale of restoration required. There may be local rules and regulations regarding materials, and/or limitations prohibiting the major changes in the design or structure. Historical homes are usually limited to preserving the original exterior and interior design and architecture.

Experienced renovators like Houseworks Unlimited can renovate a historical structure with modern utilities, thus making it both “historical” as well as “livable”.

Renovations are projects that involve improving the property from its original state to increase the property’s value, to lengthen its expected usable “life”, or converting it to a new purpose altogether.

Renovation of a home is an expense that is generally not deductible;  but there are a number of ways that you can use home renovations and improvements to minimize your taxes, including tax deductions and tax credits for renovations and improvements made to your home at the time of purchase or afterwards. Like most capital investments, Home Improvements will deteriorate over time; so the tax code allows deductions to “invisible losses” represented by deterioration and “wear and tear”.

Each property may have different depreciation’s, based on estimates of its useful life. The IRS publishes more details in Publication 946 – How To Depreciate Property. Find the applicable method for calculating annual depreciation, and then fill out IRS Form 4562. These expenditures will pay dividends or and potentially improve your investment income or resale value.

The IRS does not consider these costs to be deductible business expenses. These expenditures are considered by the IRS to be capital investments, meaning you must spread deductions over the projected life of the property — a process called amortization and depreciation.

Renovations used for essential medical needs; such as installing wheelchair ramps, adding handrails in baths, lowering shelves, widening doors and hallways. etc. can be deducted as medical expenses. Renovation that is primarily or purely aesthetic, architectural, or recreational uses are obviously not deductible.

Hiring an experienced professional Home Renovation company such as Houseworks Unlimited can provide professional Home Renovation services, as well as advice on available tax credits and deductions you can take advantage of.

Fortunately, you have options. One is the Section 203(k) mortgage, available through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Another is Fannie Mae’s Home Style Renovation Mortgage.  Many private lenders offer mortgages directed to buyers needing repair or renovation. These are designed to allow home buyers to finance both mortgage and renovation together. It offers an opportunity to finance an affordable house and also finance it renovation.

Doing both a mortgage and renovation loan at once may actually save you money, as it eliminates the need for two appraisals and title searches, and interest rates are comparable to rates for standard mortgages.

FHA’s Section 203(k) mortgage combines the cost of the purchase and renovation in one loan and are available nationwide, Interest rates are compatible with standard home loans. You qualify if the property is at least a year old, and the renovation has to total at least $5,000.

The benefit of the 203(k) is that you use the future or expected value after the improvements are made. So a home that costs $100,000 and require $25,000 in improvements, the loan will be for the entire $125,000. The portion of the loan designated for improvements is paid in installments as the work is completed.

Fannie Mae’s Home Style Remodeler is similar.  The borrower finds a licensed contractor who submits detailed work plans and specifications to the lender.

There are two options:  a General Contractor or a Full service design/build Contractor.

A General Contractor is someone who uses subcontractors who are hired to do specific elements of the renovation – a sort of “pick up” team. This may be more “economical” but the product is dependent on the skills of the individual subcontractors.

The best bet is “one-stop shopping”! A Full Service Design/Build Contractor like Houseworks Unlimited, Inc. means a certified and experienced professional team of designers and builders.

A full service contractor is an established team of workers with current permits and knowledge of federal and local ordinances and environmental regulations with a likelihood of being on time, on “spec”, and on budget.

Some Questions (and answers):

Craig came to my home where we discussed what I wanted to do which was remove existing wall to wall carpet and replace with hardwood. Craig gave me some recommendations for layout for the flooring which turned out to make the floor look great since ran continuously in the dining room, living room, study and the master bedroom.

Craig also made recommendations for us for replacing the hardwood that we had hardwood. We chose a stone for the foyer and Craig made sure we understood that new more supportive sub-flooring would be needed to avoid movement and cracking. He was correct in his recommendation since the stone was too heavy for the existing sub-flooring.

Finally, he suggested that we bring the foyer stone into the living room by framing the fireplace with that stone. It turned out to look great as a design concept. We received many compliments from our friends and family.

We benefited from retaining both a master craftsman and an interior designer. I would highly recommend Houseworks Unlimited and look forward to working with them again on our next project.

Steve & Julie

After all you’re not building a tree house for your kids; you need to know the structure  of your home – that is, how will knocking down a wall affect the stability of the rest of the house.

So before you start, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you have a clear idea of the scope of your project?
• Do you realistically have the time, the skills and the patience to complete this project?
• Do you have the necessary skills for this project?
• Do you know everything you will need (materials, tools, etc.) to complete the project?
• Do you have the tools and materials you will need? If not, do you have the time and resources to learn those skills that?
• Will you need assistance with this project? If so, who will assist you and do they have the time and skills required for the project?
• Do you know the safety issues associated with this project?
• How will it affect your job, and home life?
• Are you familiar with the applicable building codes and permits?

Finally, have you seriously considered hiring a professional Home Remodeler? Looking only at the cost of hiring a professional renovator merely in terms of labor and materials is a mistake.  A professional remodeler like Houseworks Unlimited offers you years of experience, the right tools, a network of suppliers and professional trade contractors, and an in-depth understanding of legal regulations, cost estimating, scheduling, and the latest construction techniques and materials.

Fortunately, you have options. One is the Section 203(k) mortgage, available through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Another is Fannie Mae’s HomeStyle Renovation Mortgage.  Many private lenders offer mortgages directed to buyers needing repair or renovation. These are designed to allow home buyers to finance both mortgage and renovation together. It’s offers an opportunity to finance an affordable house and also finance it renovation.

Doing both a mortgage and renovation loan at once may actually save you money, as it eliminates the need for two appraisals and title searches, and, interest rates are comparable to rates for standard mortgages.

FHA’s Section 203(k) mortgage combines the cost of the purchase and renovation in one loan and are available nationwide, Interest rates are compatible with standard home loans. You qualify if the property is at least a year old, and the renovation has to total at least $5,000.

The benefit of the 203(k) is that you use the future or expected value after the improvements are made. So a home that costs $100,000 and require $25,000 in improvements, the loan will be for the entire $125,000. The portion of the loan designated for improvements is paid in installments as the work is completed.

Fannie Mae’s HomeStyle Remodeler is similar.  The borrower finds a licensed contractor who submits detailed work plans and specifications to the lender,

Houseworks Unlimited has over 30 years experience in all aspects of renovation and remodeling, and is familiar and can offer advice and guidance in planning your renovation.

The question is, what can you do with that space? Take some time to consider what you really want and need to make your home “better”.  A professional Home Renovator like Houseworks Unlimited can offer many suggestions – but the real choice is yours.

By converting your basement into a Workout Space, you won’t have to drive to the gym waiting for your turn on the exercise bike or weights.  Or maybe an Entertainment Area with a large screen projector, pool table and tables for movies, board games and poker; maybe a bar for parties and get-togethers.

If your basement has its own entrance to the outside, consider making it into a Separate Apartment, either for rental, or for Mom and Dad to live their retirement years while still having their – and your – privacy and independence. By soundproofing the walls and ceiling of your basement, you are in effect creating an entirely separate area of your home where you or your family can retreat.  If any of the kids play an instrument, this can be a rehearsal/practice space without disturbing you or the neighbors.

There are many other options that an established, recognized renovation contractor such as Houseworks Unlimited can offer, using their years of experience and expertise making “old” homes “new” again.

All renovations are not equal. If you plan to sell, some renovations that you personally love may not be attractive to potential buyers. So decide what the main purpose is: return for your investment, or the dream house you’ve always wanted. Or both; these are not incompatible goals.

You can actually have both, but when it comes to renovations, think utility rather than opulence. A marble bathtub won’t enhance your bathing experience, and probably won’t impress potential buyers either.  Also, some upgrades may make your personal life more enjoyable, but may not help in your resale.

Home offices. If you work from home, an office space is a necessity. But if that takes space away from a bedroom, living room or garage, it won’t attract a buyer.

Swimming pools. Some people see a swimming pool as an enhancement; but other buyers see it as a maintenance headache.

New roofing. New roofing can protect a house and improve the look, but probably won’t affect the sale price.  Has any buyer closed a sale because they liked the roof?

Specialized spaces. Maybe you’d like to convert your basement into a wine cellar, or add a gazebo for outdoor barbecues.  That would certainly personalize your home and add to your enjoyment, but buyers probably won’t pay the extra price for them.

Remodeling a home is a personal decision. Just be sure you know what you want and why. A professional remodeling contractor like Houseworks Unlimited can help make the right renovation for the purpose you want.

Q: How do I know a color is right for a room?

A: Don’t think there is only one right color for a space. Sometimes just choosing a “favorite” color may cause you to miss other possibilities; and many colors you may think are wrong are really creating different effects than you’re not familiar with. A professional decorator/home renovator can help you think “out of the box”; turning an average room into a showroom.

Q: How do I show off a treasured heirloom?

A: Your renovator/decorator can design the space and color elements that will accent and complement your heirloom or centerpiece.

Q: How do I use my color choices in a room?

A: Contrasting colors add dimension. Contrast dark walls with lighter colored upholstery and furnishings, or vice versa.  Repeat your wall color in the form of pillows, cushions or other accents to unify the theme.

Q. I have a small house. What can I do to make the house seem larger without having the space to expand?

A: Professional renovators can redesign interiors to make small spaces more efficient and accessible. Décor also helps. Solid paint rather than patterns for walls and furnishing gives the perception of more space. Adding patterned cushions or pillows to a solid colored sofa or bed adds depth and interest without being “busy”.

Q: How do I make my bedroom feel more “personal”?

A: Consult with your renovator about your favorite colors, patterns and motifs. If you like floral patterns, find a floral comforter and base you room’s colors around  that.  If you like geometric shapes then use solid color bedding and add geometric shaped throw pillows.

Renovation covers both the home and what’s in it.  Houseworks Unlimited is a professional Renovator — not just carpenters and painters, but engineers, architects, and decorators that can create your dream house into reality.

• Mold and mildew can occur from water leaks or high humidity, causing wood rot, peeling paint, structural damage, and a variety of health problems. In homes with central air conditioners this can often be caused by  improperly installed air conditioners.

• Damp basements are often caused by moisture in the foundation. Evaporation increases humidity and mold growth.

• Insufficient insulation or air infiltration can cause cold floors. Air coming into or out of your house through leaks can cause rooms to feel drafty and uncomfortable.

• Increased dust could mean you need to change the air filter. Also check periodically that your ducts are well sealed.

• High moisture levels can come from old inefficient windows resulting in condensation, frost, or pools of water on windows and sills.

• Peeling or cracked paint on your home’s exterior may be a sign of excess humidity; or a bad paint job.

• Significant temperature changes from one room to another could be caused by inadequate insulation, and/or an outdated Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system.

These are typical problems with many homes, regardless of age. Some of them may make you consider moving; but an even better choice is Home Renovation. Renovating gives you a new house without having to move; and at the same time improving its efficiency and livability while saving not only the cost of moving, but also saving on utilities and improving the environment as well.

It’s best to hire a professional renovator experienced in Home Improvements. Houseworks Unlimited is an established and recognized professional Home Renovation Company with over thirty years of experience and a list of satisfied, repeat customers.

Tax credits for improving a roof or hot water heater have expired, but there are still significant energy-efficient improvements available.  You can claim a 30 percent tax credit for installing a geothermal heat pump, small wind turbine or solar energy system in your home. There is no credit limit and applies to both existing homes and new construction, but not to rental properties.  You can also get a credit of up to 30% of the cost of residential fuel cells -up to $500 per .5kW of capacity. Both credits are valid until Dec. 31, 2016. The initial costs of these improvements are significant, but they can dramatically decrease home energy bills in the long run.

You may also be able to claim a deduction on your taxes depending on the type of home improvement/repair you undertake. Consult with your tax accountant to see what portion of the cost, if any, is deductible. If you do home repairs through the year, keep your receipts and a record of the improvements for possible deductions when preparing your tax return.

Knowing ahead of time which, tax credits or deductions apply to your home improvement can help your decisions on how to use the credit for funding the work. Knowing the cost of a project before starting can help you manage your credit.

Websites like freecreditscore.com  can help you understand your credit. The site offers members a Credit Score Estimator that can help you understand how applying for a home improvement loan may affect your credit score.

Visit www.EnergyStar.gov and energy.gov/savings. to learn more about tax credits. Rebates and savings and www.IRS.gov about tax deductions.

The following changes can make your house more livable and boost its value as well.

Floors. Replacing dated, scuffed floors can give your house a new look and make small spaces appear larger. Your contractor can give you options: Genuine hardwood flooring is expensive. If your hardwood floors are just scuffed, professional refinishing will cost less than replacement. Laminate is the toughest flooring, ideal for playrooms and kitchens.

The Kitchen. . For utility and investment, the kitchen is the best place to put your money. A redesign can change the look and cost less than a major replacement. Kitchen renovations can pay back up to 80 percent of their cost.

Bathrooms.  At closing, you get about 75 percent return for a minor bathroom remodel. Most bathtubs already have showers built in, so replacing a dated, little-used tub with a spacious shower is a fairly easy job. For resale, a big shower counts as a full bath, and adding a shower to a half-bath makes it much more marketable.

Closets. Roomy, organized closets are big draws for prospective buyers.   A walk-in master closet is a good draw, but can be expensive. Discuss with your contractor what you really need.

 Energy Upgrades.  Energy-saving amenities make a house more attractive to buyers. Keep receipts and careful records for all your energy-saving expenses for potential buyers and the IRS.  Houseworks Unlimited will work closely with you to give the best home renovation at a reasonable cost that suits your needs and budget.

Active designs are familiar home utilities such as air conditioners and furnaces that artificially maintain temperatures within a home. Passive designs take advantage of natural features of  location, climate and environment to cool and warm a home.

When building a new home, a contractor has some control over how the house is positioned on the site. But renovating an existing house doesn’t have that option. But by planning additions and locations for new windows and rooms based on the sun’s position and prevailing wind direction, a home can be warmed or cooled “naturally”. For example, south-facing windows and walls will absorb heat during the day. Shade trees can shield rooms and patios from the sun as can fast-growing ivy on a trellis and add some style as well.

 Adding overhangs to the roof to block the sun can reduce reliance on the AC by blocking harsh summer sunlight. Installing awnings adds to the effect of overhangs. Older walls, floors and roofs may “leak” heat if not properly insulated. Your contractor can replace or upgrade them, and “operable windows” will use prevailing winds for natural ventilation.

For warmth, well- situated masonry or concrete walls can absorb the sun’s heat during the day, keeping the home cooler inside, and then slowly releasing the stored heat at night.

Using “Passive Design” uses “natural logic” to maximize a home’s energy efficiency. An established professional renovator such as Houseworks Unlimited can make your home not only more “modern”, but more efficient and economical.

When homeowners start thinking about remodeling their home, they naturally think about upgrading the living spaces, but if you want to get more space, what about the homes basement.

We tend to think of the basement as just a storage area, a place to put the washing machine, and old furniture, suitcases toys and things we don’t need but can’t seem to get rid of. But instead of the expense of adding an addition to the house, basements can be used instead as an extension to the house; an at-home office for a family business, or as an extra bedroom or two, a den or a family recreation area or even for a home theater in the basement. A fully renovated and furnished basement makes entertaining a lot easier, without worrying about the living room carpet and the furniture upstairs, In short, a well designed basement can be a multi-use addition to your home.  Also, the resale value of a home with a finished basement is much higher, if you eventually sell your home.

Making a basement into a living space is not a simple job.  Certified professional renovators like Houseworks Unlimited can give you the best professional renovation that adds value to your home as both an investment and a living space.  Additionally, a remodeled basement has to meet state regulations in order to be certified as “finished square footage”.  Hiring a contractor saves you the hassle of dealing with building codes and other legalities that a Contractor is familiar with.

Is your room or house feeling a bit cramped? Do the walls seem to be closing in on you? Is it time to move?  Not necessarily. It may be just time to renovate.

It’s not always about size; it’s often about space. There are simple solutions you can use to maximize space and make your home feel more inviting.

•  Windows make a small room larger. Windows naturally make your eye move beyond the wall to the outdoors, making the living space seem more spacious. Take advantage of it by leaving windows bare, or use draperies that match the color of the walls to blend and open the space. Install simple shades or blinds for privacy that can be opened during the day. Hang draperies below the ceiling and extend the draperies beyond the window frame to make the room feel larger.

• Make small rooms do double duty. A “sofa bed” that can serve as a sofa in the day and a bed at night adds an extra bedroom to your house. Two small tables can be put together to be a large coffee table, and then separated to give more space as needed.

• Use small scale furniture.  Avoid big stuffed sofas and armchairs. Choose neatly upholstered compact furniture with and slim legs with no “skirting” that opens the view to walls and floors. Choose low-profile chairs without heavy arms that crowd the visual space, and  add small upholstered stools.

• Make it “White and Light”. Light colors open up a room, giving it the illusion of spaciousness. White surfaces reflect light, making a small space feel more open. Use white walls, draperies and furniture, and use wood floors and light rattan coffee tables for contrast. These dark accents will anchor provide variety to the space without constricting it.

A professional Design consultant can offer even more suggestions to open and brighten a small room or house.

“We hired Houseworks Unlimited to replace front porch railing on our house, and had a very positive experience. Owner Craig was extremely professional and knowledgeable and overall great to work with. He kept us informed every step of the way, his work was immaculate and precise, and we are thrilled with our end product. Prices were not cheap, but they were competitive. Plus, you get what you pay for and we received outstanding service and product. Would definitely recommend Craig and his company to anyone looking for a general contractor, and have already hired him to tackle our next project.”

Carla & Micheal F.

Mt. Airy, MD

In general, there are three types of renovation:

Lifestyle Renovations will improve your home and your way of life. Lifestyle renovations may involve adding extra rooms or converting unused space.

Retrofit Renovations focus on your home’s shell or mechanical systems such as upgrading insulation, replacing a new furnace or adding state of the art, energy efficient utilities and lighting.

Maintenance and Repair renovations protect the investment you have made in your house. This type of renovation included activities such as caulking windows, replacing damaged trim, painting or new roofing.

For any renovation, you need define what you want to have when it’s done, and how much it will cost to achieve that. Some basic goals include:

• Higher market value and increased equity
• Improved comfort in your home
• More living space
• Added convenience in the design of your home
• More aesthetic appeal to your house
• Improving the safety in your house
• Greater privacy
• A healthier living environment
• A fresh new look to your house

Renovation is not just carpentry and plumbing; it’s also about design. Depending on the goals and size of the project, renovating as a Do-It-Yourself project can be risky as well as wasteful. Knowledge of building codes, structural and environmental requirements are generally beyond the abilities of most amateur renovators. This is why an established, certified, award-winning professional renovator like Houseworks Unlimited, with over 30 years of experience and a portfolio of satisfied repeat customers is the best and most economical choice.

Craig of Houseworks Unlimited is an experienced and knowledgeable contractor who is able to handle just about any project, either doing the job himself or using capable subcontractors. He has been willing and able to tackle jobs around the house that I had difficulty finding others to do. He is dependable and sensitive to being present in your home. He shows up when he says he will and stays on schedule. He keeps the job site neat and tidy and cleans up thoroughly when the job is completed, hauling away all debris. Craig is also trustworthy and I was comfortable giving him a key and having him work in my home when I was not there.

Work done on our home by Houseworks included a new roof and dormer repair some years ago, which has held up well, and this year various exterior repairs, a new door between the family room and the garage, remodeling of the first floor powder room, and removal of tile and installation of hardware flooring in the foyer. Craig referred us to cost effective suppliers that he had experience with who helped us make our selections and we were quite pleased with the way the powder room and foyer project came together. He made several suggestions regarding cabinet spacing, tile layout, and selection of fixtures that contributed to the success of the powder room remodel and came up with creative solutions for the few unexpected problems that occurred. Craig is careful and the quality of his work is uniformly good. Craig offers a warranty on his work and was responsive in taking care of a problem that cropped up with the new roof even though it occurred some time after it was installed.

Hank & Gail

Do you want to add a room, or just have more space inside? How will your renovation affect stability and appearance?  Could it be that you have too much furniture, or not enough light and ventilation?  Do you feel cramped and crowded?

Knocking down walls may give you more space, but what’s going to fill that space when you’re done?  And how will these improvements affect your home’s structure as well as its appearance. Adding a room may give you more space, but how does it appear from the outside?  That extra space requires rewiring, additional plumbing and alters the look of the home, and stability as well.

How does that extra room conform to the house in terms of style and symmetry? Does it look like it was just “tacked on”. More importantly, will it improve the house’s value and “saleability”, and will your improvements fit the building codes and regulations regarding materials, wiring and environmental issues?

Tinkering with your car can be a hobby, but for major overhauls and repairs you need a good mechanic.  While small Home Improvement tasks can be a do-it-yourself job, for major changes you need a professional; one that knows both the mechanics of home renovation – Structure, Style, Safety and Saleability.

Houseworks Unlimited is not just carpenters, electricians and painters. They are architects, designers and  custom builders with more than 30 years experience with accredited recognition, awards and testimonials from peers and satisfied repeat customers.

What home improvements projects yield the best return on investment?

Basic upgrades such as painting walls and installing new fixtures offer the largest returns for the price. Homeowners can also add value updating kitchens, bathrooms, and adding extra bedrooms, a den or “multi-use” room.

What home improvements projects yield the worst return on investment?

The biggest mistake is spending money on purely decorative additions: swimming pools, gazebos, etc. They may make a home look “pricey”, but then, they won’t be giving any real “quality of life” benefit for the cost.  It’s best to spend what is needed to make a home more livable, efficient and attractive, regardless whether the goal is selling or just improving.

Are “green” renovations worth it?

It all depends on the improvements. Adding Energy Star appliances and extra insulation are likely to pay the homeowner back in lowered utility costs and are also a draw for potential buyers. But it’s smart to think in terms of personal and family comfort and convenience, not just future profit. The longer a homeowner stays in a property, the greater the opportunity for a return on investment.

As an experienced, established and reputable Home Renovator, Houseworks Unlimited can help assess your needs for both quality of life and also future saleability.

Is there a house like that?  There can be, and it may be the very house you live in now – with a “master plan” and some state-of-the-art renovation. The concept is called “Universal Design”, the deliberate design of products and environments that can be easily used by occupants regardless of age, ability or disability. UD brings together principles and standards of “adaptable design”;  that is, “normal” home designs and fixtures that can be easily revised/renovated  or replaced for use by all ages without expensive and extensive changes later.

Universal Design combines “Ergonomic Design” – allowing interaction of people and things more efficiently and safely, and “Green Design” – more environmentally friendly spaces. The goal is to create spaces that can be used by everyone equally and blend with the premises.

For example, instead of adding obvious wheelchair ramps to front steps, making it an obvious “Handicap Entrance“, UD calls for a gently sloping ramp to accommodate a stroller, wheelchair, or walker, rather than a “porch step”.

What else?  Perhaps instead of round door knobs a decorative lever door opener that can help an arthritis sufferer and anyone carrying packages or a baby easily open the door.

Full-length or tilting mirrors can be placed where they can be seen by someone in a wheel chair, and having floors with no “step up” level changes helps accessibility and eliminates tripping.

Houseworks Unlimited has over 30 years experience in home renovation, and can add many more UD concepts to make your home more modern, functional and safer.

Showers cause Floods.  Installing a shower may sound sensible, but if you don’t do it right water can leak throughout the house. That means hiring someone to do it right; an expense that could be avoided by hiring a professional at the start.

Flushing Failures. Installing a new toilet without proper sealing may mean thousands of extra dollars repairing ceilings and floors. A contractor can do it right the first time.

Wall Worries.  Tearing down walls to achieve more open space is fine if you do it right.  But tearing down walls that support the house means several thousand dollars more to re-support the house

Venting Violations. Tearing out drywall in older homes for more space by may seem a good idea, but if air vents from the furnace and air conditioner are inside that wall there won’t be any cooling and heating upstairs.  Relocating the vents may cost up to $15,000.

Instead, invest in Houseworks Unlimited, an established experienced Home renovator that can improve both the value and the efficiency of your home.

Renovation is not just about paint and woodwork and extra space, but also about style, comfort efficiency and convenience. You want your home to be not just bigger, but better; more functional and more efficient. That’s where a professional Home Renovation company like Houseworks Unlimited can make a difference.  They are not just carpenters and painters, but architects and designers.

“Do-it-yourself” renovations too often fail to make the most of the money and time invested. And do-it-yourself renovation or hired “start-up” renovators don’t always know the current building codes and environmental regulations.  Professional renovators have a track record of satisfied customers, and are certified, experienced, and trained in both design and construction.  Professional renovators are up to date in new home technologies, building codes and environmental regulations that make your home truly modern, safe, efficient and, above all, livable.

When you decide to hire a professional Contractor, how do you know they are competent and professional? Look for a company with an established reputation in your community. Nine out of ten contractors fail in their first 5 years…..9 more of them in the next 10 years!  So a company that has been working for 20 years or more is a good indicator of success, based on competence and quality.

Houseworks Unlimited has been in the construction industry for over 30 years, with the majority of their contracts being repeat customers and referrals from satisfied clients.

What projects will give your home the most value at less cost? Here are some ideas for affordable renovations that could boost your home’s value and appeal:

Reface Kitchen Cabinets. If the cabinets in your kitchen are serviceable but unappealing, refacing them can be a cost-effective alternative. Replacing the hardware, door and drawer fronts, can be just as effective, and cheaper, than installing all-new cabinetry.

Install a New Kitchen Countertop.  If you want the look of a stone countertop, you can achieve the high-end feel of granite or marble without breaking the budget. Your Contractor can find sources of granite or marble at lesser cost, or can install less expensive Laminate made to resemble granite or marble.

Update the Bathroom. Updating a bathroom is a great way to add value to your home. In fact, updating the sink and fixtures will yield more value than replacing the counter-tops, flooring, toilet, or even the tub and shower. Your contractor can install sinks and fixtures with basic finishes that saves money without compromising quality or appearance. Replacing stained grout with stain-resistant grout also make a great difference.

Add a Deck. Adding a deck is the favorite DYI project. It may seem an easy Do-It Yourself project, but if your home improvement skills are a little weak, it’s better to leave this one up to the pros as well.

Houseworks Unlimited is an established leader in affordable renovations that add value and style to a home.

1. Unplug your cell phone and other electronic devices as soon as they’re fully charged, leaving them on uses up power and wastes money.

2. Use Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs) to reduce energy expense in those areas where you usually need light longer that 15 minutes, like the kitchen and other work areas,  Use  conventional light bulbs in areas like closets and places where the light is needed infrequently.

3. Use new generation LED bulbs when they become available. They’re more costly but use even less energy than CFLs. They also last longer, and  have a “warmer” color.

4.  Install new windows rated by thermal transmission “U-factor”. Lower numbers — from 0.20 to 0.35 mean more energy savings. Look for high rated “R-values” when replacing wall and ceiling insulation.

5. Don’t buy expensive $150 a cord firewood. Instead, buy scrap wood from the local sawmill and use it as firewood.

6.You can save electricity by reducing the brightness on your HDTV. Many are set to “retail mode” for the showroom which is the highest picture clarity. Use your TV’s setup menu and switch to “home mode” to lowerthe brightness.

7.  When winter comes, switch ceiling fans to reverse its direction. That pushes the warm air that’s near the ceiling down into the living space, cutting heating costs up to 10 percent.

8.  Bathroom and kitchen vent fans blow cooled or heated air outside, which adds to utility costs. Use them sparingly .

Hiring a recognized leader in Home Renovation like Houseworks Unlimited is an investment that will be returned with interest by the value and comfort of a fully modernized home.

To Renovate, according to Webster’s, is:  “to restore to a former or better state”.  To repair is to “restore to sound condition after damage or injury”.

Thus, to “remodel” something, would be changing the use of it. So a floor plan that needed to be changed or altered would be “remodeling”, but taking the existing floor plan and adding new floors, new sheet rock, paint, etc, would be “renovating”.  That is, replacing the old with something new.

There’s sometimes a lot of confusion about theses terms, especially when it comes to houses and homes. Renovating a Home is NOT a “Do-It-Yourself” proposition.  Remodeling or repairing a home may be, depending on the size of the project and the knowledge and skills of the one doing the remodeling or repairing. Regardless of what they advertise, “Home Improvement”, “Home Repair” or “Home Remodeling” stores are aimed at relatively small jobs, not a major redesign of a home’s structure.

Essentially, the difference between “Home Repair/Remodeling” and “Home Renovation” is the difference between applying a Band-Aid and having Surgery:  the former you can do yourself, but you need an expert to do the latter.

Most of us can do simple repairs, paint a room and place furniture, but renovating a home requires a trained professional. Renovation often means replacing or updating structural and environmental elements of a home. Many of these are regulated by building and environmental codes, which are changed or updated periodically. Only a trained professional renovation company like Houseworks Unlimited, an established, award winning professional Home Renovator/Remodeler, would be able to make changes that would be efficient and economical , as well as compliant with current regulations and building codes.

How to choose the right one? You need to find a home renovator/contractor  that is established, recognized, and certified; with a track record of experience, quality workmanship, and customer satisfaction.  How to tell the difference?  Here are some clues:

Listed Address.  If a contractor does not provide an address but just a phone number, that should be a red flag as far as experience and competence. It may mean the person is working from his home or is new to the business. Look for a website or phone number.  Contact your local states licensing department. Also check the Better Business Bureau or the Chamber of Commerce in your area to see if the company is listed with them.

Houseworks Unlimited has been a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) since1994 .

References.  According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), nearly half of all projects completed by a remodeling contractor are the result of client referrals. Be wary of a contractor that can’t provide you with references.

90% of the clients for Houseworks Unlimited are former customers.

Permit.  Avoid contractors who say they won’t need permits to start repair or remodeling. If there is no permit, most likely they are not certified, and there is no way to verify that the work being done is compliant with existing codes.

A permit can ensure home insurance coverage.  The government requires inspection to make sure everything is up to code; if you don’t have a building permit and damage occurs to the renovation, your insurance may not cover the replacement or liability costs.

Houseworks Unlimited is fully licensed and insured in the State of Maryland and provides a warranty on all workmanship and materials.

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Actually it’s easy. An outside “living space” can have just about anything an inside living space has –just make the walls optional. In reality, your basic patio is an outdoor room, since most have, at least, chairs and tables. But now the concept of the “patio” has been expanded to be more than the occasional Mai Tai and beer repository. The traditional “back yard” – once just a space for pets, crabgrass and the occasional swimming pool, is now being transformed into a “living space” of its own.

A growing trend is to move the indoors – outdoors; creating another living space, dining room, or recreation room in the backyard; a “getaway” cottage without having to “get away”.

An outdoor dining room can be an extension of your indoor kitchen, but by eating in a room that is outside the house, open to nature, with the advantage of comfortable chairs, real tables, and maybe a stereo or TV as well.

Do you enjoy relaxing in front of a fire with a bottle of wine? Think of a camping trip with benefits. With a little imagination and planning, just about anything you can do indoors, can be done outdoors – but you knew that already.

Of course that takes some planning. Home renovators like Houseworks Unlimited can design and build an Outside Room to enhance your home and property usefulness and value. Your “Outside Room” not only adds extra space without additions and knocking out walls, it adds to the uniqueness and value of your current home as well.

Housesworks Unlimited, Inc. has been an award-winning leader in home remodeling and renovation since 1990 .

Here are some “color psychology” techniques professionals use as part of home renovation.

Use bright, vibrant colors. To make a home “look larger”, use lighter colors to add to the exterior, but avoid white for the interiors.  Pure white may make a room look larger, but also makes a room feel stark and featureless.  “Tinted” colors in yellow and eggshell tones are more effective, and give each room a unique “personality”.

Use Red in kitchens and dining rooms. Red has the psychological effect of increasing appetite – which is why many restaurants have red motifs in their dining areas. To heighten appetite, accent neutral painted walls with red cabinets and doors in your kitchen and dining areas.

Warm your home with deep tones: In colder climates, using reds, oranges and yellows for your paint decor makes the home more welcoming from the outside and warmer on the inside – especially in winter.

Use cooler colors in warmer climates: Along the same lines, cool colors, especially blue, can make your home seem fresh, cool and clean in warm and humid climates.

Use cooler colors in “family” rooms:  Bedrooms and bathrooms are “escape rooms”, where you go for privacy and relaxation. Shades of blue, green, or lavender in bedrooms and bathrooms create a relaxed atmosphere.

Since 1990 Houseworks Unlimited, Inc. has been an established, award winning leader in Home Renovation and Remodeling.

Home improvement projects have these basic objectives:

• Comfort. Essentially improving or adding to the livability of a  home, such as upgrading heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, basements and rooms,  bedrooms and baths.

• Maintenance and repair. Maintenance projects can include roof repair and replacement. Repairs and upgrades to the foundation, chimney, plumbing, heating & cooling and electrical systems.

• Adding living space.  Renovation can turn marginal areas into livable spaces, turning basements and into recreational areas, home offices or spare bedrooms or extending the house by adding rooms or extra levels to the original home.

• Saving energy.  Renovation can help reduce utility costs by installing energy-efficient thermal insulation, replacing  windows, and install state of the art additions such as solar panels, wind turbines, programmable thermostats, and geothermal exchange heat pumps that reduce heating and air conditioning costs.

• Safety.  Installing fire, carbon monoxide and burglar alarm systems, sprinkler systems, secure doors and windows, storm cellars (in hurricane and tornado prone areas) and backup generators.

The most important and experienced professionals in the home improvement industry are renovation contractors such as Houseworks Unlimited. These are builders and architects that have the credentials, knowledge and experience to perform home renovations at greater savings and efficiency than a “do-it-yourself” project. Home renovators like Houseworks Unlimited belong to reputable professional associations and are accredited professional renovators with a track record for efficiency, workmanship and customer satisfaction. Houseworks Unlimited will ensure your home improvement needs and desires will be accomplished efficiently and economically.

When we feel cramped and confined, we often say “I can’t breathe in this place”, meaning we feel “boxed in”. Home Renovation is not just “redecorating”, but also to provide a  more comfortable living space, that is, to move about without feeling confined or constrained by obstacles such as  small rooms, too much furniture, not enough windows or doors, and poor lighting and ventilation. These conditions can make even relatively large spaces feel cramped and confined.

The real goal of renovation is to improve the living space, so that you can “breathe”, meaning you can live, work and move around comfortably. Too much space makes you feel alienated and isolated; too little space makes you feel cramped and confined. Home Renovation, then, is not just knocking out walls or adding extra rooms, but “planning the space”.  That can be done by adding more space or improving existing space. Most of the time, it’s doing both.

That’s why a professional Home Renovation company like Houseworks Unlimited is your best bet to improve both the “living space” and the “breathing space” in your home.  They know the ins and outs of home renovation, including EPA requirements on common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition that can create hazardous dust and chips from lead-based paint found in older homes especially, which can be harmful to adults and children.

Houseworks Unlimited can make your home not only more livable, but more “breathable” as well.

“Craig is the consummate professional and completed our projects on time with excellent results.”

“We were very satisfied with the quality of work and attention to detail. Every project is thoughtfully planned and executed.”

“We would highly recommend Craig for the smallest home renovation project to building a complete home. Housework’s quality of work sets the standard for the contracting industry. The company provides an excellent work product for a competitive price.”

Chris & Monique M.

Bala Cynwyd, PA

The reason was because he thought a new dining room would “add to the value of the house”. In other words, he was more concerned about making the house “valuable”, rather than making it “livable”.  What he forgot is that no matter how “valuable” a house may be in terms of money spent, the real value of a house is its livability.

No one wants to live where they’re not comfortable. You should invest your time and money to improve livability; that will automatically make the house more valuable.

Here are some suggestions to improve the livability of your house:

1. Install walk-in pantries instead of kitchen cabinets. Cabinets are expensive and most are too high to reach easily. Pantries, store more, take less space, are easier to use, and cost less to build. Use the extra space for windows.

2. Replace that bathtub with a shower. Most people today prefer showers; and showers takes up less space, uses less hot water, and are more sanitary than a bathtub.

3. Remove excess windows from bedrooms and bathrooms. Install windows facing the best views. Why pay for bathroom windows when you can have a great view from your bedroom or den instead?

4. Keep ceiling heights reasonable.  Taller rooms are harder to decorate and more expensive to heat and cool. It’s the difference between living in a room and living in a barn.

5. Spend more time planning, and less money building. This is where a professional home renovation contractor like Houseworks Unlimited can give you the benefit of years of experience in home design and renovation.

When renovating your home, choosing the right kind of light is important for efficiency, style and comfort. For example, overhead lighting provides a lot of light and can illuminate the decor and features of a room. But overhead lighting can also be harsh and glaring by itself. Floor lamps alone provide the warmest and most flattering light for a room, but may create dark spots and shadows. Good lighting design helps set the mood, and provide just enough of the “right kind” of light to fit the purpose of the room and the mood and atmosphere of the occasion.

Here are the basic types of lighting used in homes:

Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, comfortable level of brightness, and allows you and your guests to see and move around safely.

Task lighting focuses on concentrating light on a defined area or space to perform a specific activity; such as reading or playing games.

Accent lighting creates mood, and adds interest to a room by highlighting or spotlighting certain areas and objects, such as paintings, walls, and collectibles.

Decorative lighting is when the light itself become an element of the space itself, as with a chandelier or candles.

Multipurpose rooms can be equipped with dimmers that can light up a party or a night of Scrabble with your family and friends, or dimmed for a romantic and intimate evening with your loved one.

A professional home renovator like Houseworks Unlimited has the expertise and experience to design your home so the lighting compliments the space and the purpose of the room.

Low Home Renovation Costs – Hiring a professional can actually save you money. Houseworks Unlimited has industry contacts and discounts with vendors for equipment and products at less cost.. The savings benefits you with a finished home at a much lesser cost than doing it alone.

Better Workmanship –A quality, award-winning home renovation company like Houseworks Unlimited, guarantees the work will be done correctly, the first time and every time.

Licensed and Insured – One of the biggest concerns with home renovations is the special permits you need, and liability insurance to cover any extra workers you may hire. What about mistakes that may damage your house through unskilled or untrained workmanship? What about you or someone working with you gets seriously injured?  A professional Contracting company has the expertise and experience to do a professional job at cost.

Reliable Home Support – What about “follow up”? A reputable home renovation contractor will give you the support and backup to handle emergency repairs and future renovations.

One thing to keep in mind. You should renovate your home because you want a better home. If you want to invest, buy stocks. Homes are an investment, An established and recognized remodeling contractor like Houseworks Unlimited can guarantee the home you want, and the dividend is the pride in your home, and the  comfort and safety of your family.

Local building codes require a certain number of electrical outlets in a room.  When planning a renovation, make sure the contractor knows how you are going to use the room and what appliances you expect to have there.   For example, if you want one room to serve as a combined office and extra bedroom, you will want to have internet cable access for a computer and outlets for a printer and as well as a phone and TV outlet, beside  just light and air-conditioning. Planning this help the renovator know how much space is required so the room won’t end up looking cluttered or cramped.   Also keep in mind what the value of your home will be after when finished. A classic remodeling strategy is to focus on “where the water is”, that is, on kitchens and bathrooms, so don’t neglect them in your planning.

Before a contractor begins work, you need to have your local utility service come to mark the underground utilities.  This will prevent accidental digging where the existing services are, causing extensive damage if you neglect to have the utilities marked.   You could face very large repair bills from your utility suppliers if that happens.

One extra remodeling tip at the finish: ask you contractor to leave some extra cans of paint for touchups and repairs later on.

Most of all, hire a professional and accredited contractor with established credentials and a proven track record.  Houseworks Unlimited Inc. has more than 30 years experience in residential construction with proven results and satisfaction. Unlike most remodeling companies who only provide a one year warranty, Houseworks Unlimited Inc. provides a  5 year warranty on workmanship and materials.

It’s easy to “Do It Yourself” when weeding the garden, cutting the lawn, painting and doing minor repairs and upgrades. But is going the “DIY” (Do It Yourself) route a smart move for bigger projects? With large Home Improvement retail stores providing tools and materials for do-it-yourself projects, It may look tempting; but with more involved projects like home renovation and remodeling, it may be more costly in the long run to do it yourself, rather than hiring a contractor. While tools and materials may be easier to procure than in the past, it still could cost you more money that you anticipated, and a lot more aggravation than you needed.

So before you load up the Station Wagon, ask yourself these questions:

1. 1.       Do I know what I’m doing?
    A mistake can waste a lot of time and money, and you might have to hire a professional to fix the damage. Even if nothing went wrong, the cost of buying or renting tools, equipment and materials could cost more than a professional home renovation.

1. 2.       Could I hurt myself?
   A botched or uncompleted project is bad enough, but an accident can also result in a serious injury and medical bills. The pride in “I’m doing it myself” is not worth a stay in the hospital.

1. 3.       What Is My Time Worth?

Don’t jump into a DIY project just because you may think it’s cheaper and easier to do it yourself.  Make a realistic assessment of your skills and capabilities, and calculate the time and money. You will find that a professional renovator like Houseworks Unlimited, with over 20 years of satisfied customers, is the safest, surest, and most economical way to get the home you wanted.

Some of the home improvements for disabled residents are:

• Widening  doorways and/or adding wheelchair ramps
• Adding elevators
• Installing special handrails in the bathroom
• Lowering kitchen cabinets to accommodate a wheelchair
• Installing air filtration or an air-conditioning system
• Lowering light switches so someone in a wheelchair can reach them
• Swimming and/or whirlpool baths
• Replacing old drywall with new drywall due to mold that affects a chronic condition.

The IRS will look closely at all the itemized entries, so get a statement from your doctor stating in detail why these changes are necessary for the patient. But don’t itemize a new air conditioner if your doctor said you needed to install an air filter. Once the renovation and upgrades are finished, get a new appraisal of your house. Attach the appraisal showing the new value of your house to your taxes so the IRS can justify your figures.

Another way home improvement can work as a write off:  Give whatever materials you have left over to charitable organizations that build homes for the poor. Then you can claim the fair market value of the goods as a deduction. Just, as always, be sure to keep the receipt.

Then don’t do it.

Instead, think of contracting a professional renovating company like Houseworks Unlimited to renovate or update your home. They can give some practical views on making your home not only seem newer, but more efficient.  A professional remodeler has the skills, experience, and tools to provide the renovation you require. But if you want to renovate, why not update too?  There are many state of the art, energy saving appliances that will make you home into an efficient, state-of- the- art showpiece.

New and improved solar skylights, for instance, provide free light inside homes, using the sun’s rays to light and heat your home without adding to your electric and heating bills. Modern skylights can reflect up to 98% of the sunlight falling on your roof, providing you with free and non-polluting lighting. Doors and windows are often overlooked, but they too can be modernized and renovated to add light and better access to a room, making it feel larger and more open. Your renovator can help you choose the windows and doors that not only add style, but make them more energy efficient as well as giving light and access to the room.

A professional renovator can provide guidance about updating you home appliances as well as do a make-over of the furnishings and structures. They do the work, and you get the benefit by getting a “new” home without actually having to move.

To ensure your satisfaction, make sure you hire a qualified, professional remodeler Such as Houseworks Unlimited.  “Do-it-yourself” projects have increased in popularity due to popular home improvement shows and publications.  And, for certain small projects, a Do-it-yourself project can be rewarding and fun – if you are prepared and have the proper skills. But few people have the  those skills, and even fewer have the resources and knowledge to deal with building codes and planning a renovation efficiently  .

It is easy to look at a professional remodeler and think only of the cost of labor and materials; but remember that a professional remodeler offers years of experience, the right tools, a network of suppliers and subcontractors, and knowledge and experience with the legal regulations, cost estimates, price scheduling and management, as well as understanding and experience in the latest construction techniques and materials.

Also, safety is a big factor in any construction and renovation project. Home remodelers are professionals with specialized skills and the best equipment that can quickly and efficiently improve your home renovation or remodeling project. Hiring a home building professional can actually save you money in the long run, and you have the satisfaction of knowing that professionals know the regulations and have technical knowledge to efficiently remodel and renovate. Their experience can quickly determine the needed materials needed for the best prices without over or underestimating the amount, type or cost of materials and labor.

Scientists at UCLA have invented a thin, transparent solar cell that can turn the energy of the sun into electricity, while still allowing visible light to stream through it.

“If you take a piece of glass and compare it to our solar cell, it is difficult to tell the difference,” said study leader Yang Yang, a professor at UCLA and director of the Nano Renewable Energy Center at California NanoSystems Institute (CNSI).

The transparent solar cell is made out of a plastic that absorbs invisible infared light while letting most visible light pass through.

Additionally, even the metal that carries the charge out of the cell is transparent. In collaboration with Paul S. Weiss, director of CNSI, Yang was able to install a silver nano wire that served as the conductive metal that is essentially invisible.

The result? A solar panel that is 70% transparent to the human eye.

There is a catch, of course: Transparent solar cells are not nearly as efficient as opaque ones. Yang said that by solving the visibility problem, 30% of a cell’s energy-absorbing capability had to be sacrificed.

The good news is that the process is very economical, and the material can be fabricated as a liquid that can be sprayed on a surface, much in the same way that car factories spray paint onto automobiles.

Yang said he had already received calls from people ready to buy the transparent solar cells, but he does not expect the product to be ready for commercial use for at least five years.

“I don’t have the patience to wait much longer,” he said. “I’d like to say in five years we’ll have something on a small scale, and then in 10 years it will be popular.”

Thanks to Deborah Netburn at The Los Angeles Times.

Clean your gutters. After a long winter, dirt and debris will gather in the gutters. Clean them out and ensure that they are still in good repair. Direct the downspouts away from your foundation. If the ground closest to the house along the foundation puddles water from the downspout, add extenders to direct the water further away from the house so that the water doesn’t cause damage.

Inspect your roof. If you can’t remember the last time you had a roof inspection, it’s probably time to call in a professional to take care of any repairs. Check for loose shingles or damage, and have them fixed before leaks happen. If you had issues with roof dams or heavy snow accumulation on the roof during winter, you might see damage to the lowest few feet of your roof. Ice and water can seep under the flashing, wreaking havoc on insulation and the roof deck below.

Check your foundation, basement and crawlspace. Before those spring rains hit, check the foundation around your house for cracks or imperfections. Seal them or call in a contractor if necessary to keep water from seeping into your house. The same goes for walls and floors of your basement and crawlspace. Check for any signs of moisture and seal as necessary. Also, keep a close eye on the sump pump. Ensure that it’s working properly and get a battery backup just in case.

Maintain your A/C. Call a qualified HVAC contractor to give your air-conditioning system a once over. Doing so each year will help ensure that the system is running at peak performance and help to lower your energy bills. Be sure that the inspector looks at the system’s condensate drain hose where sediment can build up. Use a wet-vac to suction out any blockage.

Fix the deck. If you have a wood deck, now’s the time to inspect the surface for warping, loose boards and popped nails that could cause damage to treading feet. If you have stains or discolorations, you should reseal the deck so that it is protected against heavy spring and summer rains.

Clean the water heater. The average lifespan of a water heater is eight to 12 years. If yours is more than five years old, you should check around the base for any leakage or rust. If you find some, replace the heater. For areas with hard water, you may be required to drain the water heater to eliminate sediment that builds up in the tank.

According to the study, construction industry professionals report an even steeper increase in green home remodeling; 34% of remodelers expect to be doing mostly green work by 2016, a 150% increase over 2011 activity levels. Many home builders have shifted to the remodeling market due to the drastic drop in new home construction. In fact, 62% of the builders who do both new and remodeling work verified that the economy has increased their renovation work.

“The housing market is critical to the U.S. economy,” said Harvey M. Bernstein, VP of Industry Insights and Alliances, McGraw-Hill Construction, “and the results of our study show that despite the drastic downturn in housing starts since 2008, green has grown significantly as a share of activity— indicating that the green market is becoming an important part of our overall economic landscape.”

The green home building study, produced by McGraw-Hill Construction in conjunction with the NAHB and Waste Management, is designed to provide key insights into market opportunities, backed by proprietary research surveys and the power of the Dodge database. The study reveals business benefits afforded by green building, such as a competitive marketing advantage: 46% of builders and remodelers find that “building green” makes it easier to market themselves in a down economy, and an overwhelming 71% of firms that are dedicated to green home building report the same.

“This study demonstrates phenomenal growth in green building and indicates that we can expect even larger increases in the coming years,” said NAHB Chairman Barry Rutenberg, a home builder from Gainesville, Fla. “In a sample of NAHB builder and remodeler members, nearly 90% reported building green at some level. This is a powerful testament to the importance of green home building—and transforms the way we think of homes overall.”

By 2016, many more builders anticipate that they will be dedicated to green building work on over 90% of projects— 33% expect to be dedicated to green work in 2016, up from 17% in 2011. Remodeling will grow even more dramatically— 22% of remodelers report that they anticipate they will be dedicated to green work in 2016, nearly triple the 8% who report being dedicated to green work in 2011. These builders are clued into the revenue opportunity afforded by green building and know that home buyers will pay more for green homes, according to 61% of builders and 66% of remodelers.

“Home buyers and builders increasingly want to do what’s right for the environment,” said Jim Halter, VP for Construction Solutions, Waste Management. “This trend has been taking off within our business as customers look to recycle and divert more materials from landfills. We’re excited to see the results of the study; they validate the services we offer.”

Many factors are driving the green homes market, with “higher quality” and “increases in energy costs” topping the list, indicating that today’s green homebuyer is not just a green consumer. Buyers recognize that green homes have lower bills due to higher building performance. The reported costs of building a green home have also gone down significantly. Builders report that the cost to go green is now 7%, as compared to 10% in 2008 and 11% in 2006.

While green is growing across the U.S., three regions are seeing higher than average growth. The West Coast has seen the highest green growth; the Midwest’s northern region, west of the Mississippi, is second highest; and New England ranks third.

McGraw-Hill Construction will continue analyzing the results of the Green Home Builders and Remodelers Study and release a printed report in April during the NAHB’s National Green Building Conference and Expo in Nashville. Further findings, including remodeling details, green technologies, and green product adoption in green homes, will be included in that report.

Thanks to NAHB.org

“Do you need a reliable contractor who’s a perfectionist and does top quality work?

If so, you need to call Craig Knott.

I asked my real estate agent (Betty Gardiner of Long & Foster’s Mt. Airy office) for a few recommendations for contractors to fix an issue I had prior to putting my condo on the market. Betty recommended Craig, and said she was sure after I had him come out to discuss my issue and give me an estimate that I wouldn’t be interested in using anyone else! She was so right.

The drywall and paint work Craig did was exceptional and once my new house is built I plan to have Craig come out and do some additional work for me.

Remember………you often get what you pay for. The lowest estimate typically isn’t going to be quality work. I’d rather pay a little more for something and get the best and never have to worry about it again.”

Denise S.

Clarksburg, MD

“The fact that there are nearly 100 markets now on the improving list shows that the momentum is building for a housing recovery and that more buyers and sellers are starting to feel confident enough to return to the market,” said Kurt Pfotenhauer, vice chairman of First American Title Insurance Company.

The IMI is designed to track housing markets throughout the country that are showing signs of improving economic health. The index measures three sets of independent monthly data to get a mark on the top improving Metropolitan Statistical Areas. The three indicators that are analyzed are employment growth from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, house price appreciation from Freddie Mac, and single-family housing permit growth from the U.S. Census Bureau. NAHB uses the latest available data from these sources to generate a list of improving markets. A metropolitan area must see improvement in all three areas for at least six months following their respective troughs before being included on the improving markets list.

Seven markets dropped from the NAHB/First American Improving Markets Index in February as they experienced softening house prices. These metros include San Jose, Calif.; Washington, D.C.; Kankakee, Ill.; New Orleans; Worcester, Mass.; Jackson, Miss.; and Sherman, Texas.

A complete list of all 98 metropolitan areas currently on the IMI, and a separate breakout of metros newly added to the list in February, is available at: www.nahb.org/imi.

Editor’s Note: The NAHB/First American Improving Markets Index (IMI) is released on the fourth business day of each month at 10:00 a.m., ET, unless that day falls on a Friday – in which case, the index will be released on the following Monday. A full calendar of release dates can be found at www.nahb.org/imi.

1. Choosing a material without testing it first

Want to do a cabinet refacing with laminate? Go to the store and see how it feels under your hands. Look at laminate in other kitchens to see how well it holds up over time. Want that gorgeous soapstone countertop? Get a piece of soapstone and use it in your home as a trivet for a few months.

2. Not being around for the complete remodel

Don’t plan a remodel during a very busy travel time, such as the holidays. Don’t walk away from the remodel, either. Going on vacation right in the middle of the job leaves the contractor with no one to oversee the work, and that can lead to results you might not like. Though it isn’t easy to plan your whole life around the remodel, it is the best thing to do to ensure you get it done right and on time.

3. Choosing unconventional designs

Though going with an unusual design can be suitable for some situations, it can also create problems you didn’t expect. For instance, moving your kitchen sink to a corner instead of giving it open space near a window can lead to a blowback of steam when you pour hot liquid out of pots. Consider every possible use for that area of the kitchen to determine if an unusual design makes sense.

4. Skimping on the appliances

Though it might seem like a good idea to save money by choosing that smaller refrigerator or the noisier of the dishwashers, keep in mind that the appliances will get the most use of all the elements in your kitchen. Spending a bit more money on those can make your remodel a much more comfortable investment. Remember too that newer kitchen appliances are held to more efficient energy use. So, new appliances can save you money in the long term, too.

5. Budgeting to the last dollar

Keep a little wiggle room in your budget for the things you didn’t expect. For instance, cabinet refacing cost might be less than you anticipated, so it seems you can budget even more for that high-end countertop, right? Not so fast. What if something goes wrong with the flooring and you need more than you anticipated? That little cushion of cash in your budget can be a financial lifesaver.

6. Rushing the plans

When you rush the plans, you are bound to make mistakes or go over budget. Telling the designer to simply “add that in” without doing the homework can lead to sticker shock or a look you really don’t want. Take your time with the design, envision it, and learn to live with it before it becomes reality.

7. Choosing the lowest bid contractor

Though the lowest bid might be tempting, choosing a contractor should mean more than the bottom line. This is a person who will practically live in your house for several weeks, so keep in mind that you must be able to get along, and you must have a level of trust in their work. Sometimes that doesn’t happen with the lowest bid, and it is worth spending more for peace of mind.

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Avoiding these mistakes now can save you a great deal of money, time and frustration in the long run. Before you start any remodeling project, make sure you are as well-prepared and realistic as possible.

Though it is true that newly remodeled kitchens and bathrooms, deck additions and other improvements can add to the value of your home, look closely at the true return on investment before you leap into the project.

These home improvements might pay for themselves

Each year, Remodeling Magazine compares the average cost of the most popular home improvement projects and compares them with the average value the project adds at resale time. If you are thinking about putting your home on the market in the next few years, these home improvement projects could offer the biggest bang for your buck.

1. Minor kitchen remodel

The kitchen is often what sells the home, so it pays to make it as welcoming as possible. A minor kitchen remodel can offer an average return on investment of 72.1 percent. The recoup can be even greater when you turn to money-savers like cabinet refacing and vinyl tile flooring. Think a more expensive remodel is better? Think again. The 2011 average return on investment for a major kitchen remodel was 57.4 percent–much less than you might make back by taking the cheaper route.

2. Siding replacement

At a 78 percent return on investment, adding fiber cement siding is definitely a good idea for a home improvement project. Vinyl siding can also be a good option, giving you back 69.5 percent of what you put into it.

3. Entry door replacement

The front door makes a first impression and provides security for your family. Opting for a steel entry door can provide beauty and safety while giving you a nice 73 percent return on investment. With an average cost of $1,238 per project, it is also one of the most affordable improvements you can make.

4. Creating an attic bedroom

The more bedrooms you have in your home, the more potential home-buyers you will attract. Adding an attic bedroom can give you a 72.5 percent average return on investment. In some cases, since the bones of the room are already in place, an attic bedroom can be substantially cheaper than a new construction addition.

Other upgrades to consider

There are many other common home improvement projects that can bring you a boost when it’s time for resale. Other good options include vinyl replacement windows and the addition of a wooden deck. Replacing your garage door with a new one is one of the most affordable projects at an average cost of $1,512, and it is also one of the nicest returns, giving you back an average of 71.9 percent on investment.

Doing your research pays off

Before you choose to sink money into a remodel, look into what the latest trends are and what potential home-buyers in your area are looking for, then plan your improvements accordingly. If the goal is to enjoy the improvements for a few years and then sell the house for a tidy profit, these four projects can help you make that plan a reality.

Thanks to Shannon Dauphin at Build Direct

December 2011 –

The index identifies metropolitan areas that have shown improvement from their respective troughs in housing permits, employment and house prices for at least six consecutive months.

New entrants to the list in December include the following:

Ann Arbor, MI
Athens, GA
Boulder, CO
Burlington, VT
Canton, OH
Charleston, WV
Danville, VA
Fort Wayne, IN
Grand Forks, ND
Jackson, MS
Kingsport, TN
Laredo, TX
Lincoln, NE
Muncie, IN
Muskegon, MI
San Jose, CA
Scranton, PA
Toledo, OH
Washington, DC
Winchester, VA

“The increases we continue to see in the number and geographic diversity of improving metros are quite encouraging, and evidence of the fact that all housing markets are dependent on uniquely local factors,” said NAHB Chairman Bob Nielsen, a home builder from Reno, Nev. He noted that as of December, a total of 21 states and the District of Columbia are represented on the improving markets list — up from14 states represented in November.

“The December IMI results are very much in keeping with the latest government housing data and our own builder surveys, which have shown modest signs of improvement in certain individual markets where employment is gaining and distressed properties are not as numerous,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “These gradual improvements are now becoming evident not just in small, energy-producing metros that have previously dominated the IMI, but also in several larger markets and areas with more diverse economies.”

The nine markets that dropped off the IMI in December include Alexandria, La.; Fairbanks, Alaska; Hinesville, Ga.; Houma, La.; Jonesboro, Ark.; Lima, Ohio; Pine Bluff, Ark.; Sumter, S.C. and Waco, Tex. All but two of these metros fell from the list due to softening house prices. The exceptions to the rule were Jonesboro and Waco, where declines were registered in employment and single-family housing permits, respectively.

The total list of improving housing markets in December, as defined by the IMI, includes the following 41 entries (listed alphabetically by state):

Anchorage, AK
San Jose, CA
Boulder, CO
Fort Collins, CO
Washington, DC
Athens, GA
Davenport, IA
Waterloo, IA
Kankakee, IL
Fort Wayne, IN
Muncie, IN
Monroe, LA
New Orleans, LA
Ann Arbor, MI
Muskegon, MI
Jackson, MS
Fayetteville, NC
Winston-Salem, NC
Bismarck, ND
Grand Forks, ND
Lincoln, NE
Canton, OH
Toledo, OH
Pittsburgh, PA
Scranton, PA
Williamsport, PA
Kingsport, TN
Amarillo, TX
Corpus Christi, TX
Laredo, TX
McAllen, TX
Midland, TX
Odessa, TX
Sherman, TX
Tyler, TX
Danville, VA
Winchester, VA
Burlington, VT
Charleston, WV
Casper, WY
Cheyenne, WY

The IMI is designed to track housing markets throughout the country that are showing signs of improving economic health. The index measures three sets of independent monthly data to get a mark on the top improving Metropolitan Statistical Areas. The three indicators that are analyzed are employment growth from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, house price appreciation from Freddie Mac, and single-family housing permit growth from the U.S. Census Bureau. NAHB uses the latest available data from these sources to generate a list of improving markets. A metro area must see improvement in all three areas for at least six months following their respective troughs before being included on the improving markets list.

Please visit www.nahb.org/imi for additional data, tables and a list of future economic release dates.

Editor’s Note: The NAHB/First American Improving Markets Index (IMI) is released on the fourth business day of each month at 10:00 a.m. ET, unless that day falls on a Friday – in which case, the index will be released the following Monday. A full calendar of future release dates can be found at www.nahb.org/imi.

A new report has found that consumers who previously purchased green products have decreased their green purchasing as a result of the recession.

In the study by Massachusetts-based Grail Research, 43% of “light green” consumers—those who buy some green products—said they have reduced their usage of green products or switched to conventional ones. At the same time, the percentage of non-green consumers rose from 15% to 22%.

“Although it’s clear that the market for green products is here to stay, the number of green consumers declined over the past two years,” notes Annica Blake, global head of research services at Grail Research.

Conversely, Blake says, the number of “dark green” consumers—those who select earth-friendly products for most of their purchases—increased by 1% and now make up 9% of the consumer market. Other key findings of the “Green Revolution” report include:

·         Sixty-five percent of respondents changed their purchasing behavior as a result of the recession, with most turning to less expensive green products.

·         Nine percent of consumers said they never consider buying green products, an increase of 4 percentage points since the previous report.

·         Only 11% of consumers reported that they seek information on green companies and their products.

·         Packaging still remains the most important source of information for green products, with more than half of consumers saying it impacts their purchasing decision.

·         Consumers are more likely to find green claims compelling if they provide quantitative information in an easy-to-visualize description that communicates the impact on the environment.

To improve consumer awareness, manufacturers should work to effectively articulate their products’ green attributes, says Blake, adding that the success of the green market will be determined by how well marketing messages resonate with buyers.

“It’s no longer enough to just say you’re green,” she says. “Consumers now expect comparable value and performance.”

Thanks to Jennifer Goodman, Senior Editor for EcoHome.

The measure split Republicans, many of whom supported retaining the lower limit of $625,500. As a result, efforts to restore the higher limit fell short until the Senate attached an increase to a package of spending bills that were passed yesterday by both the House and Senate.

The higher FHA limit is expected to become law after the president signs the spending measures, which he must do by the end of today to avoid a government shutdown.

“Restoring the higher loan limits for the FHA will provide homeowners and homebuyers with safe and affordable financing, while providing a much-needed boost to housing markets all around the country,” James W. Tobin, chief lobbyist for the National Association of Home Builders, wrote in a Nov. 16 letter to Speaker John Boehner, an Ohio Republican.

Lawmakers who backed higher limits said withdrawing federal support could further undermine a housing market still struggling to recover from the 2008 credit crisis.

The final compromise, which dropped a similar increase to loans backed by mortgage firms Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, represents a mixed victory for the housing industry.

While the increase to $729,750 is expected to spur some additional homebuying, it’s not clear by how much. FHA loans make up a smaller share of the market than those purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

5.3 Million Homes

Still, the measure was fully embraced by trade groups for homebuilders and realtors. The National Association of Homebuilders has estimated that 5.3 million homes lost their eligibility for conforming loans when the higher limits expired on Oct. 1. Nearly 670 counties saw their loan limits decline, according to the National Association of Realtors.

On the other side were a number of interest groups that push for free-market policies and against government support to the housing market. Those groups, which include the Club for Growth and Heritage Action for America, play a large role in the House Republican conference and can influence campaign funding for the next election.

Republicans backed by the groups thought efforts to increase the loan limits had been defeated earlier this year, particularly when the White House announced support for allowing them to go back down to pre-crisis levels.

‘Completely Bizarre’

“This is completely bizarre that the Congress would be to the left of this president on housing finance,” Representative Patrick McHenry, a North Carolina Republican on the House Financial Services Committee, said in an interview.

House Republicans who opposed the provision seized on the FHA’s annual actuarial report released earlier this week, which said the agency has a 50 percent chance of needing to seek taxpayer aid to bolster its insurance fund.

The FHA, which provides liquidity by protecting lenders against borrower defaults, has increased its share of the mortgage market in the wake of the credit crisis. The agency, created in 1934 during the Great Depression, now guarantees a third of U.S. mortgages, according to the report.

The House-passed legislation, approved in a 298-121 vote, was opposed by 101 members of the House’s Republican majority, some of whom said they opposed the measure primarily because of the loan-limit increase.

Representative John Campbell, a California Republican who pushed for the increase, called the compromise on the provision “just a bad deal.” Campbell said he would have preferred that lawmakers boost the limit for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac over raising the FHA limit.

‘Short-Term Fix’

“I’m glad something got done, but because they got it backwards, this will be a much more short-term fix than I would have hoped,” Campbell said in an interview.

The Senate followed the House’s lead a few hours later, voting 70-30 to clear the measure for Obama’s signature. The provision was once again cited by several Republicans as a reason for their opposition.

“Raising the loan limits at FHA only, an unprecedented move, will simply drive more business into Ginnie Mae securities and put the FHA at even greater risk of losses to taxpayers,” Senator Bob Corker, a Tennessee Republican, said yesterday. “If we cannot even take this simple step, we risk crowding out the private sector for years to come.”

Thanks to Phil Mattingly at Bloomberg News

Choosing the perfect flooring for your bathroom is incredibly important. Before you jump in at the deep end, have a read through some pointers which will help you to decide which flooring will most suit your bathroom.

Vinyl tile floors

Vinyl flooring is one of the most popular bathroom flooring choices and there’s a very valid reason behind it. Generally reasonably priced, it’s available in so many different designs and styles that you can find one to suit any bathroom. They are generally made in sheets or tiles but, like all types of flooring, they MUST be laid on an even floor. If your floor isn’t even, you’ll notice bubble-like lumps appearing.

Perfect for: So versatile and widely available there’s a design to suit every bathroom. Checkerboard vinyl tiles are the ultimate flooring for Victorian bathrooms.

Stone tile flooring

Stone flooring is incredibly fashionable due to its sleek appearance and durability. Stone tile flooring needs sealing before suitable for use in the bathroom as they can be porous. They’re generally available in limestone and granite and can really add an air of class to a modern bathroom.

They typically come with a higher price-tag than vinyl, so you need to be sure on your choice before splurging!

Perfect for: Creating a spa-like bathroom which wouldn’t be complete without a whirlpool bath.

Porcelain and ceramic tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles mimic stone flooring but are available at a lower price. They’re hygienic as they’re easy to keep clean. It’s also suitable for use with underfloor heating, which can be a great luxurious touch to a modern bathroom.

You needn’t worry about coordinating your wall covering with your flooring either as porcelain and ceramic tiles are suitable for on the walls.

Perfect for: Creating a modern, luxurious bathroom without the high price-tag.

Wood flooring

Although solid wood flooring isn’t a suitable choice of bathroom flooring, engineered wood flooring has been used as bathroom floors. It has a top layer of hardwood flooring that is protected from expansion by a core layer due to higher levels of humidity, for which bathrooms are known. This makes it more durable for the everyday use of bathrooms.

Some engineered wood flooring is suitable for use with underfloor heating as well, although it’s advisable to check with your manufacturer or fitter before installing. Also, double check warranties for bathroom installations, too.

Rubber floors

Rubber tiles are ideal for bathrooms are they’re extremely hard-wearing and can cope under the moisture and varying heat conditions. They’re also really easy to clean so they’re well suited for busy bathrooms. They’re available in many different colors, shades and textures. Studded patterns are popular as they have non-slip qualities.

Perfect for: Homes for the elderly or those with limited mobility as they are non-slip which provides a safe flooring particularly when wet.

Bathroom flooring: think practicality along with beauty

When choosing the floor covering for your bathroom you need to be aware of some which are simply a no-go for the bathroom. Carpet may appear tempting and the cushioned feel underfoot when you step out of the shower may seem ideal but they’re simply not built for bathroom use.

The moisture causes them to harbor smells and you’ll find the carpet is constantly saturated and not actually that pleasant for your feet! If you really need the cushioned feel under your feet invest in some plush bathmats which can be washed and dried after every use – they can be a great accessory when used adhering to your bathroom’s accent color!

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Thanks, Stephanie!

Stephanie Staszko wrote this on behalf of Designo Radiators.

Arieff is certainly correct that if there was ever a time to re-envision housing and community development, it’s now. Housing starts in 2010 numbered fewer than 600,000—roughly one-fourth of the level in 2005. While the earth-movers are idle, households and policymakers have time to catch their breath and challenge the notion that a single-family unit on a large lot is housing’s best incarnation.

Demographic trends suggest that the demand for large, single-family homes in auto-oriented communities should be on the decline. For decades, households have been getting smaller, and our population has been getting older. Combined with rising gas costs and concerns for the environment, these trends suggest that large homes in auto-dependent neighborhoods may not be the most practical option going forward. A university professor speaking at a recent research and practice forum hosted by HUD claimed that the United States already has enough detached single-family housing to satisfy demand for the next several decades, and that the real unmet demand was for attached or multifamily units in urban, transit-oriented environments.

Consumer preference may not be responding to these trends as expected, however. Survey data collected by the National Association of Realtors and reported by RCLCO show that only 19 percent of respondents want to live in a city, with the remainder split between suburbs and small town or rural areas. The most-preferred setting, appealing to 28 percent, is a suburban environment with a mix of uses, rather than one that is solely residential.

As society struggles with the tension between the type of housing that it wants and the type of housing that it – and the environment – appears to need, it must also come to grips with the type of housing it can afford. Regardless of the form and context of tomorrow’s communities, the majority of households today live in the suburbs. Will future generations want to live in the homes that we’ve already built? More importantly, will they be able to afford to?

Aron Chang wrote recently about ways that today’s suburbs can be transformed to accommodate higher densities, a mix of uses, and more affordable options. His ideas include zoning to allow for the construction of accessory dwelling units and the subdividing of single-family homes into smaller units for extended families, tenants, and even businesses.

These are but a few ideas that communities can use to retrofit their current housing stock to residents’ preferences if and when demand for the suburbs wanes. Will these strategies be effective? Are there others?

Thanks to Keith Wardrip, Center for Housing Policy

Making efficient use of the space can make your kitchen seem much larger than it is.

Finding the right sized kitchen appliances

Smaller and more compact gadgets and appliances are better for smaller kitchens, especially when these gadgets need to stay on top of the counter. Huge appliances can swallow up an entire counter, even when there are only a couple of them. Consider buying a stove with two burners instead of four, and a smaller oven and fridge.

De-clutter and Maximize Storage Space

Any unneeded clutter, whether on the counter or on the floor will definitely make a small kitchen feel cramped. If you get rid of anything that is not essential and put things where they belong when not in use, your kitchen will surely appear larger.

Even after de-cluttering, you will probably need some storage space. Splurging on deeper than normal cabinets or shelving units on top of counters can be great ways to make use of small spaces.

If you’re lucky enough to have very high ceilings, you can hang more overhead cabinets. Hanging a ladder on the wall to reach those high cabinets can be funky and functional. Use any empty wall space for extra cabinets. Glass-fronted cabinets and cabinets and shelves of different sizes can be a great way to use the space and give a great hip look.

Lighting a small kitchen

Lighting under cabinets or under counters can create an illusion of more space, too. Using lights like this as well as mirrors along walls opposite windows can make a small room to look almost enormous. Speaking of windows, the bigger, the better, if you have the choice.

Flooring fit for kitchens

The use of big, glossy kitchen tile can trick the eye, too. The gloss will toss the light around and your vision won’t be broken up by many lines of smaller tiles. In tight spaces, it’s best to use light-colored flooring.

Minimalist kitchen furniture

Smaller, minimalist furniture is best for small kitchens. Use chairs with no arms and place a long table along a wall instead of in the center of the room. If at all possible, use stainless steel, which will cause light to bounce around and make the room feel bigger and look gorgeous.

Using hanging pot racks is a fun way to show off your goods as well as save space. If you’ve got the budget for it, sliding counter tops are terrific space savers. Try utilizing the space over and around your sink for open shelves for fruit bowls and glasses. Don’t be afraid to move furniture and large appliances around to see what works best.

Work with color

The use of contrasting colors such as white walls and dark cabinets can add depth to the room. You could also paint the walls in contrasting colors, for example, by painting a small wall a really bright color while making the rest pale.

A lot of home decorating ideas, especially for smaller spaces, has to do with light and correct utilization of space. Remember that small kitchens don’r always have to be the “everything room” – used for laundry, schoolwork, recipes as well as cooking.

Enjoy your small kitchen in style

In a small kitchen, try to keep everything that doesn’t specifically have to do with cooking out of the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of most homes, so this might make for quite an adventure, but if you utilize as many of these tips as you can, you’ll be enjoying a nice cup of tea with a friend comfortably in no time.

Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies notes that homeowners are redirecting their remodeling dollars away from kitchen and bath remodels, room additions, and interiors. But pros in some areas are still doing a brisk business in two-story additions, often to enlarge a kitchen, add a home office, or build a tricked-out master suite that’s separate from the rest of the family’s bedrooms.

That project is among the most expensive of remodeling undertakings, so contractors are taking care to add value to the home as they add space. Here are 16 tips from pros who are successfully building up and out:

–Use the existing house as inspiration for the addition. Installing a different style of siding, roofing, and windows on the addition will make it obvious that the new rooms were not built as part of the original house.

–Duplicate architectural elements from the main house in both the interior and exterior of the addition—on both floors—to create a sense of unity between old and new. In a home with a bay window and window seat in the existing living room, Ward designed a similar area in the new family room.

–Mismatched windows are a telltale sign that part of the house has been added on. Choose windows in the same style and material—or at least a lookalike material—as the ones on the original structure. Keep the sill lines even on both structures.

–Blend the new flooring with the old. Ward notes that the rich-but-worn look of old hardwood floors is hard to replicate with brand-new material.

–You can also make an addition “match” the rest of the house by remodeling parts of the existing structure so it includes some of the addition’s modern touches. One builder did this to a brick home whose owner wanted board-and-batten shake siding on the two-story addition. He re-sided a pair of dormers on the opposite end of the house, too, so the facade looks balanced and the addition appears to be part of the original structure.

–Likewise, try to replicate the addition’s up-to-date structural, safety, and energy-efficiency improvements in the older part by suggesting that the homeowner bring the whole house—and not just the addition, as required—up to code.

–Incorporate modern materials that look authentic and match the main house but that are engineered to last longer, hold up better to harsh weather, and require less maintenance. Builders are installing high-end, solid-core fiberglass doors and textured fiber-cement siding that looks as much like wood as the years-old material on the rest of the home.

–Convince your clients to upgrade the HVAC. An air-conditioning unit that’s properly sized for the original structure will not perform well if you add more than about 30 square feet to the house. Most clients resist replacing their existing units because of the cost, but that their homes are usually uncomfortably humid later if they don’t—especially if the two-story addition includes an unconditioned garage under new living quarters.

-Consider the “flow” of the house. This is a very big deal. A lot of effort is put into making sure [the layout of the house] still makes sense, once it has an addition, so you don’t have to go to the middle of the living room to get to the new kitchen. Sometimes that means reallocating the space in rooms besides the ones you’re adding on.

–Step the addition forward or back a few feet from the original part to avoid turning the building into a big rectangle. This makes for a profile that’s interesting to look at, rather than one gigantic box. Likewise, making the addition’s roof line a bit lower than the roof on the main house can make it easier to flash.

–Still, the trusses between floors should line up precisely. Otherwise, the floors and ceilings of the addition won’t even out with those of the original structure.

–Plan for a large staircase. If you’re lucky, the home’s existing staircase is located close enough to the two-story addition that a new one isn’t needed. If a new staircase is needed, however, it’s likely to take up more space than you might want to.

–Remove existing walls to create larger rooms. Addition can do more than add rooms; they can transform the small, separate kitchen, dining room, and living room into a single, spacious, open area for cooking, socializing, and watching TV. Vaulted ceilings are popular for additions for the same reason.

–Consider alternative framing members for large spans on two-story additions. Lightweight steel beams are thinner than I-joists or engineered LDL beams and have saved him from exceeding height restrictions. Using thicker framing members can create problems with head clearance at the top of staircases, due to the thicker product raises the elevation of the floor.

–If the addition leaves the backyard too small for a good-size deck, build the deck on the side of the house instead. The majority of people that do additions end up adding a sundeck.

–Educate the homeowner about zoning restrictions. Many clients ask for additions that are larger than local laws allow because they are unaware of regulations restricting them from building too close to the property line or covering too high a percentage of the lot. Some communities have height restrictions for multiple-story additions as well.

—Thanks to Sharon O’Malley of Building Products magazine