What do consumers want in a new home? According to a recent survey by Better Homes and Gardens, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems top the list of features consumers say they would like in their next home, with 89 percent of those polled making this a priority. Eighty-five percent want high-efficiency appliances; 84 percent, a deck or patio; 79 percent, [...]
Three Reasons To Buy A Lakeside Home NOW
Living year-round in a newly built, energy-efficient lakeside home is a practical choice wise home investors are pursuing now. 1. Lowest mortgage rates The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan sank to 4.58 percent last week, according to Freddie Mac. That is the lowest rate since the mortgage company began keeping records in 1971. [...]
The Changing “Shape” of New Homes. . .
Home sizes in the U.S. are declining. Is it because of recession, energy conservation or an aging population that wants to spend less time caring for homes? The average square footage for new homes in the United States dropped signficantly in 2009 for the first time in nearly 30 years, according to figures just released [...]
Why A “Not So Big” House Works
The “Not So Big” philosophy of home building works for home buyers on many levels: financial, social and personal. Sarah Susanka, architect and author of the Not So Big series of books, talked recently at a 365GreenExpo online event. She advocates a “quality, not quantity” way of thinking. With the new economy and need for sustainability, this message [...]
Balance Cost and Quality In Your New Home
How can you get the best for less when building a new home? Work with a builder who respects your choices and is dedicated to serving you. A cost-conscience builder will provide you with the best materials aligned with your budget and design preferences. He (or she) will watch for waste and excess on your [...]
Staying Ahead of New Housing Trends
New housing trends emphasize clean architectural lines, flexible floor plans and low maintenance “green” materials. Overall, home building trends are moving towards quality vs. quantity, distinction over conformity, well-designed space vs. simply SPACE. Defined spaces. Half walls are now favored as a way to define space. They are being used to separate the kitchen from [...]
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Details – Part II
- Bathroom Redo Ideas
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The Chain O’ Lakes Unchained
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Mornings at Newport Cove
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The Great American Lotus
