In neighborhoods with a homeowners association (HOA), you may have to get approval for remodeling or landscape projects from the association’s architectural control committee (ACC). What is this committee’s purpose? How do you get approval for your plan? Here’s what you need to know. What does the architectural control committee do? The architectural control committee,… Read more »
When you are buying a home, it’s important to determine whether any renovations or remodeling projects were properly permitted. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to undertake such work without the required permits and government inspections. A professional home inspector will be able to evaluate this as well as the quality of the job, but you… Read more »
Home service contractors joke that they charge more to correct botched work a homeowner has attempted than to do the job themselves in the first place. But there are some DIY projects where shoddy work is no laughing matter. Instead, it may be dangerous and illegal. If you are not trained and licensed, do not… Read more »
Owners of residential investment property often spend money on repairs or renovations. These expenses can be written off on your taxes, but the rules vary depending on the nature of the work. Here’s what you need to know about how the Internal Revenue Service treats expenses for repairs and renovations. Repairs and renovations are two… Read more »
Disabled or aging people may have difficulty living in a home that hasn’t been adapted to accommodate them, so some homeowners modify their property to make life easier. What happens when the time comes to sell that house? What is the resale value of an accessible home? The scope of accessible modifications Some of today’s… Read more »
Whether you are ready to list your home or expect to stay put a few more years, check out these top seven home improvements — the most important from an interior designer’s point of view. 1. Color Palettes Instead of painting rooms wild, brash colors, designers recommend neutral colors, while adding color and personalization using… Read more »
If your dream home is a fixer-upper, but cash is tight, a 203 (k) program offered by the Federal Housing Administration could make ownership a reality. Known as FHA Section 203(k) insurance, the program allows buyers to finance the purchase of a distressed property and the cost of renovations through a single loan with one… Read more »
If you’ve got a full-fledged battle of the sexes going on at your house regarding home improvement priorities, it’s time to call a timeout. Finding common ground is the key to deciding which projects to tackle first and which can wait. You’ll both be happier and your home-improvement efforts will go more smoothly. Talk about… Read more »
If it’s time to put your individual stamp on your next house or home renovation, let’s look at the best places to go for inspiration. Some of them require a little leg work while others can be check out from the comfort of your couch. A custom builder. Get in touch with quality custom builders… Read more »
When it comes to home construction projects — large or small — homeowners are likely to encounter what may seem like a labyrinth of permits and inspections. Don’t be intimidated. Follow these guidelines to demystify the permitting process so you can enjoy your new project rather than fret about the red tape. The basics. Building… Read more »
Haunted houses are no joke when it comes to selling a so-called stigmatized property. The same goes for houses where someone has been murdered or committed suicide. The stigma surrounding the house may make it difficult, but not impossible, to sell. Here’s a guide for the owners of such a property. Clean and purge The… Read more »
When contemplating resale, homeowners often wonder what renovations will give them more resale bang for the buck. Let’s take a look at what renovations pay off and some that don’t. Focus on priorities. Although your house is an investment, first and foremost it is your home. Don’t view renovations solely with dollar signs in your… Read more »
