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NAHB Offers Tips for Remodeling Homes to ‘Age in Place’

RISMEDIA, May 16, 2008-With an increasing number of Baby Boomers choosing to stay in their homes as they age, homeowners are turning to remodelers for help to renovate their homes to accommodate their changing lifestyles. During May - National Home Remodeling Month - the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers highlights benefits of aging […]

Survey Shows Most are Happy Homeowners

RISMEDIA, May 14, 2008-Despite the worst slumping real estate market that the U.S. has experienced in at least seventy years, the large majority of people are happy with their homes, according to the latest survey from Housing Predictor.
More than two out of three respondents to the online poll said they were “happy” with their homes, […]

Fix It - What to Do about Rug Odors?

By Karen Youso
RISMEDIA, May 12, 2008-(MCT)-Odors, unless caused by pets or mildew, have to do with how the rug was made. Typically, odors occur when rugs are made by punching fibers into a latex backing, sometimes called hand-tufted. It’s the type of latex used that causes the odor, which is sometimes described as a burning […]

Balking at the Thought of Overpriced Homes

By Kathleen Lynn
RISMEDIA, May 9, 2008-(MCT)-Business people hate to turn away clients. But in the current housing cycle, some real estate agents say that’s exactly what they have to do when a home seller won’t get real about the asking price.
Margrit Vogler of Margrit Vogler Properties in Oradell, N.J., said she turned down three or […]

How to Install a Patio Yourself

By Alan J. Heavens
RISMEDIA, May 9, 2008-(MCT)-Interlocking concrete pavers make it possible for even first-time do-it-yourselfers to install patios and walkways. Concrete is more malleable than brick or stone, so it’s easier to cut and fit. But even if you hire a contractor, having some knowledge of the basics beforehand will help ensure that you […]

Paint It Green - How to Use Eco-friendly Colors to Beautify Your Home, Protect the Planet

By Charlyne Varkonyi Schaub
RISMEDIA, May 7, 2008-Everyone is advertising their paints as low VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or no VOCs. But buying green isn’t that easy. Advertising that appears to be eco-friendly can be deceptive. Although the can may say the paint is low in volatile organic compounds, some brands inject a hefty dose of […]

How to Reunite with Your Garage this Weekend

By Tom Skevin
RISMEDIA, May 2, 2008-(MCT)-When finding a parking spot in the garage is like finding one in Manhattan, it’s time to get organized. Nicole Alashaian of Emerson, N.J., is facing up to this reality.
“My name is Nicole, and I have a messy garage,” says Alashaian, who has a two-car garage.
“It’s as simple as this: […]

1 in 4 Homeowners Consider Spending Their Tax Rebate Checks on Home Improvement Projects

RISMEDIA, May 1, 2008-Resilient American homeowners intend to shake off concerns about the slumping real estate market and plant the money they receive as part of the federal economic stimulus package into what for many is their most important financial asset: their homes.
A national consumer opinion survey released today found that 24% of U.S. homeowners […]

Painting 101 - Start with Good Preparation

By Alan J. Heavens
RISMEDIA, April 30, 2008-(MCT)-I was in my basement office when the doorbell rang. That, in itself, was a miracle because I thought the doorbell was broken, and had even gone to the trouble of disassembling it a couple of weeks before to find out why. I must have done something right for […]

Sleeping Better - Change Your Pillow

By Shaila Wunderlich
RISMEDIA, April 28, 2008-(MCT)-If the litmus test for a dead pillow is that it doesn’t bounce back when folded in half, then my pillows are undoubtedly flat-lined. Come to find out, this could be costing me some valuable sleep.
“We stress the importance of having an appropriate sleeping environment, and that includes a comfortable […]

America Says It’s Time for a Fix-up

RISMEDIA, April 28, 2008-According to the latest ‘Profile America’ brought to you by the U.S. Census Bureau, April is not only the kickoff for home improvement season but also National Decorating Month. With the market for new homes down considerably, many are deciding to fix up their current house and others are taking advantage of […]

Freddie Mac Deploys $10.5 Million to Helping Borrowers Through Foreclosure

RISMEDIA, April 24, 2008-Freddie Mac announced $10.5 million in grants to housing counseling organizations to use for their outreach, education and foreclosure prevention efforts to help borrowers. Freddie Mac is one of the nation’s largest investors in residential mortgages.
The grants will enable the non-profit organizations to add and train staff, pay operational expenses and support […]

Steps to Save Energy on Earth Day, Minimize Footprint

RISMEDIA, April 22, 2008-In recognition of Earth Day, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) encourages home owners everywhere to take simple steps to reduce energy use - and to think green when they buy a new home.
“We are all proud of the significant steps our members have taken to make new homes more energy […]

Living Green in Your Home - Prudential Kansas City Realty Promotes Steps for Action

To join our Earth Day discussion of ways to ’green’ your life and your business, click here.
RISMEDIA, April 22, 2008-Prudential Kansas City Realty believes that going green doesn’t have to be overwhelming or costly. By making just a few small changes within your home, you can help decrease energy consumption and help make the world a […]

How to Terminate Termites

By Martha Phifer
RISMEDIA, April 16, 2008-(MCT)-Termites cause more than $5 billion a year in property damage, according to Terminix. Worse even, the company warns, the damage is usually not covered by homeowners insurance.
Winged termites or discarded termite wings often found near doors and in windowsills are signs of a possible termite infestation. Other signs include […]

5 Questions to Ask Before Renovating

By Marshall Loeb
RISMEDIA, April 9, 2008-(MCT)-Spending on remodeling is expected to reach $316 billion this year alone and the number is still climbing, according to the Home Improvement Research Institute. So make sure you know exactly how big a renovation you can afford and whether it justifies the time you intend to spend in your […]

What to Ask Contractors

By Jessie Milligan
RISMEDIA, April 9, 2008-(MCT)-A lot of us have heard that we should ask a remodeling contractor whether he or she is licensed and insured. We know to ask how much a project costs. But we might forget to ask the questions recommended by John DeSilvia and John Palanca from the DIY Network’s “Under […]

Reuniting with Your Old Patio Furniture

RISMEDIA, April 8, 2008-(MCT)-You didn’t bring the outdoor furniture inside for the winter, or even cover it. Now, your chairs and patio table, even the umbrella, look plug ugly. No need to panic, though. Just give them a good cleaning, maybe even new paint, and they’ll look fresh as spring.
Whither the wicker? To clean woven […]

Tips for Homeowners to Avoid Home Improvement Scams

RISMEDIA, April 8, 2008-May is National Home Improvement Month. During times of a softer economy paired with the approach of warmer weather, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) wants to remind homeowners to beware of unscrupulous people posing as remodelers.
One common issue exploited homeowners have run into is having to pay both the […]

A Clean Restart - Reconnecting with Your Dream Home

By Cheryl Truman
RISMEDIA, April 3, 2008-(MCT)-It’s a complex relationship between you and the house you love and hate. You want to feel as if you’re at home. Instead, you feel some times as if you’re living in a Days Inn with a mailbox and a mortgage. There’s too much stuff, and you shuffle between piles […]

3 Easy, Inexpensive Ways to Increase a Home’s Energy Efficiency

RISMEDIA, April 3, 2008-Four out of five people are interested in being “green,” according to a nationwide survey among homeowners. And, nine out of 10 homeowners agree that improving the energy efficiency of their homes is one of the most useful actions to help the environment.

What’s Your Hue? Home & Garden Party Says Color, Contrast among Trends

RISMEDIA, April 1, 2008-It is the spring season, a time when flowers are in bloom and the sun’s shine is brighter. Ideally enough, “bloom” and “bright” are also words that could describe home design trends this time of year. According to Jeff Floyd, director of product development for Home & Garden Party, individuals use the […]

Don’t Get ‘Fooled’ by Home Improvement Scams

RISMEDIA, March 27, 2008-”April Fool’s!” Many people have heard that oh-so-familiar saying when someone plays a joke on them in celebration of the comical holiday. However, this April - and actually this entire spring season - Mr. Handyman, warns local homeowners not to get “fooled” by handyman scam artists when hiring professionals to do home […]

Sunlight and Clay Make for ‘Greenest’ Home

RISMEDIA, March 27, 2008-(MCT)-When some couples plan their dream home, they fantasize about Olympic-size swimming pools and walk-in closets. Scott and Jackie Wood fantasized about sunlight.
Long before buzzwords such as “sustainable design” and “green building” came to prominence, the couple dreamed of a home situated to take in the largest possible amount of sunlight, built […]

6 Things to Keep in Mind When Looking for Mortgage Financing

RISMEDIA, March 26, 2008-There are six critical things prospective home buyers need to do in this sometimes confusing market, says Kansas City mortgage expert Bruce Brown, founder of the website http://www.MortgageAnswersFast.com.
“There is an excess of housing inventory right now and that makes it a good time for buyers to get into the market. Lower prices […]

Living Outside: Garden Rooms Offer a Place to Relax Outdoors

RISMEDIA, March 26, 2008-(MCT)-For years, the side yard of Jay and Sylvia Gonzalez’s Reedley, Calif., home was left bare and empty. When the couple went outside, it was usually to use the pool and covered patio in the backyard. Last year, though, they decided it was time to do something with the unfinished piece of […]

3 Steps to Cutting Property Taxes

By Marshall Loeb
RISMEDIA, March 21, 2008-(MCT)-With home prices retreating, you’d think property taxes would too. But don’t count on it-by the time you see lower taxable values, your local government may be in enough of a squeeze to raise the rates that apply to those taxable values.
While you may not be able to control local […]

When Walking Out on Mortgage Is the Wrong Answer

RISMEDIA, March 18, 2008-(MCT)-There’s a terrible idea apparently spreading amid the mortgage meltdown that the best solution to foreclosure is to stop paying your mortgage and abandon your home. There are even companies springing up that help homeowners “walk away” for about $1,000.
Among the supposed benefits: You can live rent-free for at least eight months […]

Mortgage Woes Spur Tax Break

RISMEDIA, March 18, 2008-(MCT)-Homeowners who went through a foreclosure or got a deal for working out their mortgage debt should pay attention to a new tax break for debt forgiveness.
Troubled homeowners usually would have to pay taxes on any mortgage debt that was forgiven or canceled by a lender. The view is that if you […]

Denver Homeowners Say ‘I’ll Do It Myself’ When Remodeling

RISMEDIA, March 14, 2008-Denver area homeowners break away from the pack when it comes to remodeling, according to the Remodeling Sentiment Report, a semi-annual survey of 5,000 U.S. homeowners sponsored by www.frontrangeremodeling.com. The most recent survey reveals that remodeling plans are of a similar scope and cost as in previous years, but now homeowners are […]

Just the Facts - Where to Find Home Foreclosure Information

RISMEDIA, March 13, 2008-(MCT)-As the foreclosure problem deepens in this country, more and more advice and support is being offered to families and individuals at risk of losing their homes, through counseling services, credit management groups and the Internet. A number of websites offer good insights about home foreclosure, and how to address the situation-or […]

More Homeowners Are Just Walking Away

RISMEDIA, March 12, 2008-(MCT)-Owing more on properties than they’re worth, some local homeowners are voluntarily walking away from their house notes.
“They don’t need to be foreclosed on. They’re just turning in the keys,” said Martha Lucey, president and chief executive officer of Fresno-based nonprofit credit counselors, By Design Financial Solutions. “The problem we’re seeing is […]

Shedding Light on Frugal Bulbs

RISMEDIA, March 12, 2008-(MCT)-It’s hip to be twisty these days. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are praised as energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. They’re also the wave of the future-the U.S. government recently approved new lighting efficiency standards, which likely will mean the end of the traditional incandescent light bulb perfected in the 1870s by New Jersey’s […]

7 Tools for Relocation

RISMEDIA, March 11, 2008-If you are considering relocating, or guiding a client through a relocation, there are many factors to take into consideration. The Move Advocate provides a comprehensive menu of Relocation Tools to assist in the relocation process. From calculating potential expenses to choosing the right community, these tools can help with any move, […]

A Fresh Coat of Paint Can Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

RISMEDIA, March 11, 2008-Are you planning to spruce up your home’s exterior this spring? Or, are you considering placing your home on the market? No matter what the reason, a fresh coat of paint can immediately revive the overall appearance of your largest investment, your home.
“When it comes to exterior painting, many people choose to […]

Home Maintenance Guidelines - Tips for Buyers and Sellers in Every Region

RISMEDIA, March 10, 2008-Being a homeowner comes with its own set of challenges, particularly as it relates to home maintenance. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) recognizes that geography is a significant contributor to maintenance issues and encourages homeowners to familiarize themselves with common issues in their region.
“At ASHI, we work closely with our […]

Top 10 Foreclosure Avoidance Tips

RISMEDIA, March 4, 2008-Here are 10 suggestions to avoid foreclosure, both now and in the future.
1. Don’t ignore the problem. The further behind you become, the harder it will be to reinstate your loan and the more likely that you will lose your home. If you are behind on your mortgage payments or have received […]

Home Rehab Outlook Sags with Sales

RISMEDIA, Feb. 29, 2008-(MCT)-The ebbing tide lowers all boats. Pardon the tortured metaphor, but in the current environment, it seems an apt one for the remodeling business. That’s according to an analysis from the recent convention of the National Association of Home Builders in Orlando, which concluded that as housing slows, so slows remodeling.
In a […]

‘Dustless’ Floor Refinishing Can Cut the Mess

RISMEDIA, Feb. 28, 2008-(MCT)-Refinishing wood floors can be a real mess. The job often means hours of cleanup for homeowners. The to-do list includes knocking dust off the walls, scrubbing film off windows and rewashing all the dishes, pots and pans in the cabinets.
But in recent years, more wood-floor refinishing companies have been offering dust […]

Greening Your Home, One Room at a Time

RISMEDIA, Feb. 26, 2008-(MCT)-As the co-host of HGTV’s “Red, Hot and Green,” a contributing eco-columnist to several magazines and newspapers, and a consultant on many environmentally friendly product launches, lifestyle guru Danny Seo has “greened” countless kitchens, gardens, baths and second homes. Ask Seo which part of the house most demands to be green, though, […]

Home Safety - Tips to Help Minimize the Threat of Winter Fires

RISMEDIA, Feb. 26, 2008-Although spring is approaching, for most parts of the country, it’s still the coldest time of the year, meaning that everyone’s trying to find ways to stay warm. However, with home heating costs burning a hole in consumers’ wallets, this can present a challenge, which is a big reason that nearly two-thirds […]

Window Boxes Blossom Container Gardening

RISMEDIA, Feb. 22, 2008-(MCT)-Container gardening has exploded in popularity with about 47% of American households admitting to some form of container gardening.
There are a lot of great reasons to garden in containers, in addition to the fun. Compared to fighting tight, heavy clay in the landscape, it’s also easier to provide a good environment when […]

5 Ways to Make a Coffee Table Work for You

RISMEDIA, Feb. 20, 2008-(MCT)-You have the sofa. You have the chairs, the TV, the lamps. The last big piece for your living/family room is likely to be the coffee table. Or shall we say the darned coffee table?
Finding a table you like that fits into the room and your game plan for the room can […]

Gardening 101 - 14 Ways to Create a New Garden

RISMEDIA, Feb. 19, 2008-(MCT)-You’ve got most of the boxes unpacked and the bedrooms painted. The new house is starting to feel like it’s yours. But what about the yard?
Is it foreign territory? Maybe you’re moving from a downtown high-rise and you’ve never had a blade of grass to call your own. Maybe your new outdoors […]

Move or Renovate? Tips to Consider When You’ve Outgrown Your Space

RISMEDIA, Feb. 18, 2008-So either your stuff is growing or your house is getting smaller. Is it time to consider a new home, or can you renovate the one you have to give yourself the space you desire? These questions and others can be answered when you decide what your needs are.
The first step for […]

Tax Season - 6 Advantages of Homeownership

RISMEDIA, Feb. 18, 2008-As we enter tax season, it’s a great time to review the tax advantages associated with owning your own home. Of course, consulting your tax advisor is always the key to ensuring that you receive the most updated, accurate information and that your write-offs are right-on, but here is a brief overview […]

5 Ways to Take Advantage of the New Freeze on Real Estate Foreclosures

RISMEDIA, Feb. 15, 2008-Robert Shemin says one of the most important secrets to becoming wealthy is getting out of debt. And the only way to get out of debt is to take action.
“The new freeze on foreclosures is the perfect opportunity for everyone who has too much real estate debt or is facing foreclosure or […]

How a Home Inspection Checklist Helps Real Estate Buyers and Sellers

RISMEDIA, Feb. 13, 2008-For many years prospective home buyers had little choice in what homes to pick to purchase. It seems like all the best homes disappeared from the market within days for the listing price or in many cases tens of thousands of dollars more than the listing price.
Today’s real estate market is a […]

Homeowner Entertainment Idea - Fondue is Fashionable Again

RISMEDIA, Feb. 12, 2008-(MCT)-It’s your turn to host next month’s girls’ night. Not sure what to do for food and entertainment? Why not try something old yet new at the same time? Try fondue, which is having a resurgence. There are plenty of recipes online, as well as books dedicated to fondue to get you […]

Condo Living - Buyers and Sellers Combat Noise Issue

RISMEDIA, Feb. 12, 2008-Brian Verban knows quiet when he hears it … or not. He and wife Jamie grew up in small-town Illinois and in suburban Franklin, Wis., respectively. When they’re home, they want to live in their own noise, and when they want to talk with their neighbors, they want to do it face […]

Home Utility Savings - Snuggle up to New Bedding

RISMEDIA, Feb. 12, 2008-We’ve still got plenty of chill weather ahead, and if you think your only options are to crank up the heat or shiver between the covers, think some more. Turn down the heat, save on that utility bill, and outfit your bed to keep you warm and toasty for the rest of […]

How to Help Homeowners Maintain Value

RISMEDIA, Feb. 11, 2008-With reports that foreclosures are up 51% from 2006 and that home ownership took a record plunge in 2007, it’s clear that 2008 will be a year of economic uncertainty, and at worst, a year of continuing downturn. As consumers continue to feel the squeeze, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) […]

Hues to Use: Neutral and Natural Are Hot in Homes This Year

RISMEDIA, Feb. 8, 2008-(MCT)–What’s in store for home decor in 2008? Expect to see a lot of anything that looks “natural.” Slubby undyed linen upholstery. Neutral-colored natural-fiber rugs. Tables made to look like logs.
“Anything that looks like something that helps save the environment will be big,” says Amy Larrabee, spokeswoman for the Color Marketing Group […]

Going, Going…Solar

RISMEDIA, Feb. 7, 2008- (MCT)-Q: Several of my neighbors have had solar water heaters installed and they’re very happy with them, even though we live in the Midwest in an area that doesn’t always seem very sunny. I’m disappointed that they’re still so much more expensive than non-solar systems, and wonder if they’re really worth […]

What’s Hot, What’s Not: Spotting the New Home Trends of `08

RISMEDIA, Feb. 6, 2008-(MCT)-Wenge, it’s been good to know you. Sunken Jacuzzis, we had some good times. Blue and brown, I can’t believe it’s over. But after a couple of years of same-old, same-old on the home-front, winds of change are blowing in. Some are driven by fashion, others by economic conditions and lifestyle shifts.
2008 […]

Mortgage Spam Jumps in Response to Fed Rate Cut

RISMEDIA, Feb. 1, 2008-Spam about mortgage refinancing jumped to 10% of all spam in the past week in conjunction with the recent interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve, according to research by Commtouch. Further changes expected to be announced today may spur even more finance-related spam - always a favorite subject among spammers […]

Fuel Tips For Your Home

Commentary by Cecilia Sherrard
RISMEDIA, Feb. 2, 2008-With gas prices almost doubling this year across the country, any and all money-saving short cuts will help. Here is a list of changes you can make in your daily routine to cut back on costs in the home:
Cooking
Covered pots or pans will boil or steam faster, allowing lower […]

Tricks of the Trade: Tips to Make Small Spaces Look Bigger

RISMEDIA, Jan. 29, 2008-Visual tricks are a very important tool of interior design. Colors, light, furniture and decorative pieces can be arranged the right way to make a statement, or to make a space look smaller…or bigger. At Home Rewards(SM), a discount membership program offered by Adaptive Marketing LLC, knows that consumers don’t need to […]

National Mailing Scam Threatens Household Records

RISMEDIA, Jan. 25, 2008-The Tucson Association of Realtors® has been informed that a national company has been mailing out letters to homeowners making it seem imperative that they acquire and retain in their household records a certified copy of the deed to their house which the company will happily provide for a total cost of […]

For Your Clients: Easy Weekend Projects

Commentary by Cecilia SherrardRISMEDIA, Jan. 26, 2008-So the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over. No more baking, rushing to the stores or decking the halls. So what will you do with all this spare time? Why not improve the look of your home with some simple projects you can finish over the weekend? […]

Lifestyles Grow ‘Greener,’ Leaving Smaller ‘Footprints’

RISMEDIA, Jan. 23, 2008-(MCT)-Local environmentalists in Pittsburgh are linking last week’s warm weather with all the buzz of late about reducing energy use.
More people are wondering about unusual climate patterns in recent years, they say, and are taking steps to shrink their “carbon footprints.” That’s the amount of greenhouse gases they produce by activities ranging […]

Homeowners Call for Immediate Economic Stimulus Package

RISMEDIA, Jan. 22, 2008-This week, the American Homeowners Grassroots Alliance (AHGA) called on President Bush and Democratic and Republican members of Congress to work together to craft a balanced short term economic stimulus package to head off recession and stem the surge in foreclosures that are driving the economy into a tailspin, and causing a […]

Your Money: Should I Tap My 401(k) to Pay Off Debts?

RISMEDIA, Jan. 21, 2008-(MCT)- Q: My wages haven’t really kept up to increases in my expenses in the last year. I’ve racked up a large amount of credit card debt and I’m thinking about taking a loan against my 401(k) to pay off my debts. Will I regret this later?
A: Most employer-sponsored 401(k) plans allow […]

Help Homeowners, Economy Immediately, Says NAR

RISMEDIA, Jan. 21, 2008-The National Association of Realtors® urged President George W. Bush and Congress to help homeowners and the national economy by loosening constraints on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as an integral part of a federal stimulus package currently being discussed.
“We believe that any stimulus package must address housing issues and increasing the […]

Every Home Can be the ‘Perfect’ Listing

RISMEDIA, Jan. 19, 2008-(MCT)-First impressions are the most important and you never get a second chance to make that first impression. If you are planning to put your home on the real estate market this spring and it has the “lived-in” look, or needs a general sprucing up, consider staging your home.
Staged homes generally sell […]

A Cry for Help: Foreclosure Prevention Hotline Shatters Records

RISMEDIA, Jan. 17, 2008-Is foreclosure becoming an epidemic in our country? If the numbers being reported to the Homeownership Preservation Foundation’s Homeowner’s HOPETM Hotline are any indication, there is cause for concern.
More than 143,000 calls from distressed homeowners were fielded by the HOPETM Hotline in the fourth quarter of 2007, twice the number of calls […]

The $1,000 Tax Mistake

RISMEDIA, Jan. 17, 2008-(MCT)-You know tax-filing season is off to a rough start when the government tells taxpayers: Don’t follow the instructions.
A typographical error in about 2.4 million California tax forms could cause some homeowners to miss their biggest write-off when they file their state tax returns: the deduction for mortgage interest.
That could cost the […]

Unraveling the Shades of Green

RISMEDIA, Jan. 16, 2008-(MCT)-Your house may be touted as environmentally friendly — but is it?
Finding a “green” home in Columbia is getting easier as builders branch into the business of being environmentally friendly.
But as the movement catches on here, how do buyers know what’s legitimate?
That depends a lot on the buyer, Columbia builders say.
“Part of […]

Regional Spotlight: Property Tax Relief Coming for PA Homeowners in 2008

RISMEDIA, Jan. 16, 2008-Homeowners across Pennsylvania will receive property tax relief in 2008, thanks to gaming revenues, state Budget Secretary Michael Masch said today. He confirmed that December revenue from the state’s five open casinos was transferred today to the Property Tax Relief Fund, pushing it past the $570 million threshold required by the 2006 […]

You Dirty Rat! Preventative Measures for Keeping Rodents Outdoors

RISMEDIA, Jan. 15, 2008-Across the country, bitter cold temperatures and winter storms are forcing more than just people indoors. Rodents such as mice, rats and squirrels can pose significant risks to people and their properties. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) offers solutions for homeowners on how to keep rodents from coming indoors this winter.
“Rodents […]

Consumer Advocates Disclose the Yield Spread Premium Kick Back on Mortgages

RISMEDIA, Jan. 8, 2008-For the last four years Americas Watchdog has been vocal about double standards that exist in the U.S. mortgage industry. Because of these double standards, Americas Watchdog estimates that 9 out of 10 current U.S. homeowners pay a higher monthly mortgage payment than what they could have, or should have received when […]

Where Does Your State Rank-the Best and Worst Home Inspection Regulation Laws

RISMEDIA, Jan. 7, 2008-Later this month, when state legislators in Florida, Pennsylvania and California reconvene for the 2008 session, they may want to take a close look at the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) 2007 state ranking of the best and worst home inspection regulation laws in the United States. In the last 10 […]

New Name, Same Mission to Put Consumer First

RISMEDIA, Jan. 7, 2008-To give consumers a better idea of its purpose and mission, the Better Mortgage Bureau has decided to change its name to Consumer Mortgage Bureau. By adding consumer to their name, the organization hopes to eliminate any confusion in the public’s mind that they are anything but consumer driven.
The Consumer Mortgage Bureau […]

How to Cut Home Energy Bills, Pollution as Winter Heating Costs Spike

RISMEDIA, Jan. 7, 2008-Already, many parts of the country are facing severe winter weather, although the season began only recently. And with average heating costs across the nation spiking about 11% over last winter’s, the Alliance to Save Energy recommends energy-efficiency measures to help consumers cut home energy bills, increase indoor comfort, and reduce power […]

Top Ten 2008 New Years Resolutions for Homeowners

RISMEDIA, Jan. 3, 2008-One of the best New Years Resolutions homeowners can make is to eliminate expenses that are unnecessary and have no benefit. This is a tall order for many of us, with implications ranging from how you finance your mortgage to the energy efficiency of your home. Nevertheless it’s a very worthwhile exercise […]

American Homeowners Benefiting More from Technology

RISMEDIA, Jan. 3, 2008-Technology helps homeowners more every year. Homeowners are among the biggest beneficiaries of technology innovations. Every year new technologies help homeowners save more money and/or make our lives easier. The growing importance of Internet commerce was underlined by the 2007 holiday season. While retail sales overall remained flat between Thanksgiving and Christmas, […]

Tips for Buying an Old Farmhouse

By Curtis Seltzer
RISMEDIA, Jan. 1, 2008-Many city-bound Americans see themselves eventually owning an older house in the country. It may be a second home or a retirement spot. It has several large shade trees in the front yard-and a big front porch.The wood-frame farmhouses that we associate with Norman Rockwell’s America were built from the […]

Increasing Foreclosure Awareness for 2008

RISMEDIA, Dec. 27, 2007-The 17,000-member Chicago Association of Realtors® believes that no Chicago homeowner should face the daunting challenge of foreclosure alone, and has further stepped up its efforts to prevent foreclosures, educate consumers and Realtors about foreclosures and provide assistance to those for whom a foreclosure is imminent.
“Sellers are in desperate need of an […]

Tips to Prevent Pests This Winter Season

RISMEDIA, Dec. 27, 2007-This winter season’s unwelcome pests may soon join homeowners by the fire to stay warm and out of the elements. Colder temperatures send wintry pests, such as rodents, spiders and cockroaches searching for food, water and shelter indoors. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) provides tips for homeowners on how to keep […]

New Pub Advises Consumers What to Do If Mortgage Lender Closes or Files for Bankruptcy

RISMEDIA, Dec. 21, 2007-A new Facts for Consumers publication issued by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers what to do if their mortgage company or mortgage servicing company closes or files for bankruptcy.
“How to Manage Your Mortgage If Your Lender Closes or Files for Bankruptcy” has several situation-based tips for consumers related to servicing […]

2007’s Top 5 Decorative Concrete Trends

RISMEDIA, Dec. 21, 2007-Today’s options in concrete offer limitless possibilities for creating concrete surfaces that include custom colors, unique textures, and exquisite patterns. These decorative options have altered society’s perceptions of concrete, from plain, gray surfaces to one-of-a-kind masterpieces. With over ten million visitors per year researching these applications, it’s no wonder that decorative concrete […]

Regional Spotlight: Illinois Radon Disclosure Requirements Begin January 1

RISMEDIA, Dec. 20, 2007-When a buyer and seller sign a contract on residential real estate property in Illinois on or after January 1, 2008, the new Illinois Radon Awareness Act will apply to the sales transaction. According to the new law, the seller must supply the buyer with two documents before the buyer will become […]

Radio Show Offers Initiative to Stop Foreclosure Crisis

RISMEDIA, Dec. 19, 2007-Real Estate Radio USA, an Internet talk radio show, is taking the initiative to help stop the foreclosure crisis by offering to reinstate the mortgages of those in homeowners in foreclosure.
Each month beginning January 28, 2008, Real Estate Radio will be giving one lucky listener the opportunity to stay in their home […]

Can I contest my property taxes?

Many people do, mainly because determining value can often be tricky. This is especially true in a changing market when local prices either take off dramatically or plunge precipitously, like during the Texas oil bust of the 1980s.
While it is up to a professional assessor to evaluate property value for tax purposes, property owners are […]

Are special tax breaks available for historic rehabilitation?

Certified historic structures now enjoy a 20 percent investment tax credit for qualified rehabilitation expenses, if they are income producing properties. A historic structure is one listed in the National Register of Historic Places or so designated by an appropriate state or local historic district that is certified by the government. The tax code does […]

Are victims whose homes are damaged by natural disasters granted any tax relief?

Damage, destruction, or loss of property from fires, floods, earthquakes and other disasters are deductible from both state and federal income taxes.
If destruction is caused by an event deemed a federal disaster by the president, homeowners can deduct their losses in the tax year before the event happened by filing an amended return. This helps […]

Can I deduct improvements made to my home?

Yes, but only after you have sold it because improvements add to the basis of your home. Your gain is defined as your home’s selling price, minus deductible closing costs, minus your basis. The basis is the original purchase price of the home, plus improvements, less any depreciation.
The IRS defines improvements as those items that […]

What is guaranteed replacement cost insurance?

The most comprehensive insurance policy is guaranteed replacement cost coverage, which will pay to rebuild your home even if the cost to rebuild is more than your policy limit.
This kind of coverage is more expensive and can cost from about $400 to $1,000 a year or more, depending on the area and the price of […]

What about a vacation home as an investment?

Like any investment, it can be risky. Location and current market conditions are extremely important when deciding whether to buy.
Other things to consider:
Will you be able to afford repairs, maintenance, insurance, and utilities?
What about fees to pay agents who rent the property for you?
If you live several miles away from your vacation home, who will […]

Should I buy a vacation home?

The second home market has more ebbs and flows than the primary home market. Sales are iffy in a bad economy except, perhaps, on the high-end. That said, there is a growing trend toward the purchase of vacation homes. They are being bought for investment purposes, enjoyment, as well as retirement. In the latter […]

Can an older homeowner who is cash poor but house rich use their home to tap into the equity?

Yes, but not so much by refinancing. A reverse mortgage is a better, and increasingly popular, option for older Americans to convert home equity into cash. Money can then be used to cover home repairs, everyday living expenses, and medical bills.
Instead of making monthly payments to a lender, the lender makes payments to the homeowner, […]

Can I refinance a home loan more than once?

You most certainly can. During the most recent refinancing boom, for example, many homeowners refinanced their home loans two or three times within relatively short periods of time because interest rates kept treading downward, making it extremely attractive to trade in one loan for another.
Just remember that refinancing is basically like applying for a mortgage […]

When is the best time to refinance?

Many people flock to refinance while mortgage interest rates are low, particularly when rates are two percentage points below their existing home loans.
Other factors, like when to finance, will depend on how long you plan to hold on to your home and whether you have to pay considerable fees to refinance. It also will depend […]

Will I be able to buy again after losing a home to foreclosure?

It can happen. But a lot will depend on your circumstances and the mortgage interest rate you are willing to pay. Generally, most lenders will consider your request for a home loan two to four years after your foreclosure. Predatory lenders will issue a home mortgage in less time. But beware - they routinely charge […]

When do foreclosure proceedings begin?

Usually after the borrower has missed three consecutive mortgage payments. The lender will record a notice of default against the property. And unless the debt is satisfied, the lender will foreclose on the mortgage and proceed to set up a trustee sale, where the property is sold to the highest bidder.

If faced with foreclosure, what are my options?

Talk with your lender immediately. The lender may be able to arrange a repayment plan or the temporary reduction or suspension of your payment, particularly if your income has dropped substantially or expenses have shot up beyond your control.
You also may be able to refinance the debt or extend the term of your mortgage loan. […]

What about state and local governments?

Just about every state now offers loans for renovation and rehabilitation at below-market interest rates through its Housing Finance Agency or a similar agency. Call your governor’s office to get the name and phone number of the agency in your area.
At the municipal level, many cities also have programs for special improvements to certain blocks […]

Does the federal government offer home improvement programs?

Yes. Among the most popular:
Title 1 Home Improvement Loan. HUD insures the loan up to $25,000 for a single-family home and lenders make loans for basic livability improvements - such as additions and new roofs - to eligible borrowers.
Section 203(k) Program. HUD helps finance the major rehabilitation and repair of one- to four-family residential properties, […]

How does an unsecured loan work?

The interest rates on these loans are often higher than on secured loans and you generally will not be able to get a tax deduction for the interest paid. However, the costs to obtain an unsecured loan are usually lower. And the relative ease of getting this type of loan makes it popular for small […]

Is a home equity line of credit similar to a second mortgage?

A home equity loan, like a second mortgage, lets you tap up to about 80 percent of the appraised value of your home, minus your current mortgage balance. But because it is set up as a line of credit, you will not be charged interest until you actually make a withdrawal against the loan, although […]