No two consumers are the same. But when it comes to kitchens and baths, research from leading faucet manufacturers like Delta, American Standard, Moen and Kohler shows that most homeowners want functionality, style and convenience. This is particularly true in new home construction where homeowners are taking an active role in selecting the products that […]

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) launched its new residential green-building certification program called the National Green Building Standard this month after being formally approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The revised certification the NAHB rolled out this month is designed to appeal to a broad group of builders and homebuyers because […]

While the proposed $15,000 home buyer tax credit died in negotiations between the House and the Senate, the $787 billion stimulus bill that President Obama signed into law Tuesday includes a similar, yet smaller amount, designed to help revive the real estate market. Here are some key things you need to know about the recently […]

When it comes to choosing your windows, you need to look beyond the aesthetics and focus on the glass itself, because it’s the glass that will block the heat in the summer, cold in the winter and allow for an abundance of natural light. When you’re purchasing windows, be sure to take note of the […]

Since appliances can add up to 15 to 20 percent of overall energy usage and operational costs to your home, it is a good idea to purchase all energy-efficient appliances when you build your new home. Whether it’s a small appliance like a mixer or microwave or large appliances like refrigerators and washer and dryers, […]

Hearth appliances are one of the most popular features in American homes. In fact, half of all U.S. homes have at least one fireplace or freestanding stove and almost all new homes have a fireplace. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), fireplaces rank among the top three features desired by new homebuyers. […]

The Senate recently voted this week to replace the $7,500 tax credit for first-time home buyers and builders who earned less than $150,000 with a $15,000 break for all income groups as part of the economic stimulus package. It’s an effort by senators to effectively encouraging purchases by higher-income households with a reduced risk of default.  Unlike […]

While homebuilding is expected to remain slow through most of 2009, that doesn’t mean that consumers shouldn’t continue to search for land, purchase their dream house plans and research the latest home building products. In fact, with prices at an all time low, if you have the finances – now is the time to buy and […]

Since about half of your electric bill comes from major appliances, electronics and home office equipment and another 20% is attributed to lighting and the remainder in the heating and cooling of your home it is essential that you choose green appliances to effectively control energy consumption. Speak with your designer and builder to make […]

Today’s laundry room does more than wash and dry clothes, it’s a well-planned, multi-functional space designed to meet the changing lifestyles and needs of a growing family. In fact, most architects and designers are incorporating more detailed laundry rooms in their house plans so homeowners can create a comfortable and functional flexible space. Learn how […]