Week's Top Housing News
October 2020
Building Homes, Enriching Communities and Changing Lives. Here are some compilation of the week's top housing news.
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August 2020
Preformed shower pans are used in many production homes because they purport to reduce installation time and errors.
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March 2020
Within the past five years, expectations among consumers who buy new homes have risen–a lot. Sustainable, smart homes are becoming the norm, and the cost to design and build them is no longer in the realm of luxury–it's mainstream.
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March 2020
The Trump administration put forth a plan in September to reform the nation’s housing finance system. Now, after 11 years of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in conservatorship, it is long past time for Congress to act.
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February 2020
What are today's Mortgage Rates?
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February 2020
30 gorgeous master bathroom ideas to inspire.
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January 2020
The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced Tuesday that it is raising the conforming loan
limits for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to more than $510,000.00.
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January 2020
With all the attention in the media, Montgomery County residents may ask, "Who oversees flood control for Montgomery County?"
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November 2019
Even builders that do a good job of preventing water intrusion by flashing windows and doors can fall short when it comes to vents and pipes protruding through the building envelope, presumably because problems caused by leaks around those penetrations take a long time to announce their presence.
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October 2019
The National Fire Protection Association estimates there are nearly 15,000 dryer fires per year in the U.S., most of which started with the ignition of built-up lint in the machine or the ductwork.
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October 2019
Happy Spring! As I am writing this, we are experiencing the coldest day of this winter! I have stated often that it is unusual for our region to have freezing temperatures after mid-February.
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September 2019
Solar photovoltaic systems are a source of clean power, having simple maintenance needs and typically
lasting for more than two decades. The main challenge when using solar panels is managing their variable
energy output: they generate electricity based on the availability of sunshine, unlike a diesel generator that
provides power on demand.
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August 2019
If you have any long-term plans to live in your home, you will inevitably reach a point where renovations and remodels start to look very attractive. It's
fun to make tasteful changes to your living space over time, and it prevents your home from feeling stale.
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August 2019
If you're looking to build on your property but attempting to do so without a permit, you may want to think again. That's
because building without a permit may have some consequences.
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August 2019
If you're like most other people, you probably don't spend a lot of time thinking about the logistics of floor plan design. The average person has no idea how to design a structure that complies with local building codes, so they leave it in the hands of professionals.
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August 2019
It can be an exciting world of breathtaking possibilities when you have made the decision to buy a home. So many options! Do you buy new? Do you buy pre-owned? Should you design your own home? Should you invest in land? You undoubtedly have a lot of questions buzzing through your head, and that's why it's more important than ever to be cognizant of the facts and realities of home buying.
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August 2019
In 2019, builders will need doors that go big and tall, and light on the paneling and moulding. Patio doors remain in the spotlight and are tracking bigger than ever.
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August 2019
Hardwood flooring has a long history, one that is said to date back to the 1600s. Like many home trends, it has gone in and out of style depending on interior design trends, the introduction of competing floor surfaces, and homeowner preferences.…
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August 2019
Alongside supply–side factors like the labor shortage and rising regulatory costs, the lackluster recovery for single–family construction in recent years is due to weaker–than–expected gains for household formation. From 2000 to 2006, the net growth in U.S. households…
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August 2, 2019
According to the latest What Home Buyers Really Want survey from the NAHB, laundry rooms and energy–saving features such as Energy Star appliances, energy–efficient windows, and whole–house green certification are among the most wanted features…
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August 2, 2019
The Trump administration's tariffs on aluminum and steel, as well as the threat of tariffs on finished goods from China, have the potential to disrupt the kitchen appliance market, reports The Freedonia Group. While the ultimate extent of the tariff's impact is unknown, the Cleveland–based research firm suggests sales for kitchen appliances could slump in the near future…
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August 2019
Drip caps are an essential component of a waterproofing system that includes properly installed exterior cladding, trim, a weather-resistive barrier (WRB), and flashing tape. They should be used wherever water can get behind the horizontal edge of an exterior finish material or assembly to help mitigate water intrusion.…
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August 2019
One of the most common homeowner complaints we hear is, "It takes forever to get hot water." The frustration and inconvenience of that wait ("lag time" in industry lingo) is often more important than the impact on their water bill from gallons of water wasted while they wait for it to heat up…
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July 2019
Red-light cameras are being shut down across Texas following Gov. Greg Abbott's signing of House Bill 1631 on June 1—and cities across the state, such as Tomball and Magnolia, are also seeing hundreds of thousands of dollars in budget losses by the passage of HB 1631…
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July 2019
In the five Tomball and Magnolia ZIP codes, 13.5% of owner-occupied housing units were owned by residents younger than age 34 in 2017, census data shows…
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July 2019
Two recent studies shed light on consumer preferences, helping builders differentiate their product from resales and deliver (and sell) more desirable homes and communities…
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July 2019
Builders and buyers differ in how they define and value green homes. Here's what's real, what's assumed and imagined, and how to bridge those gaps…
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July 2019
Flashing vents and pipes that penetrate the building envelope is important but often overlooked or neglected. Here are solutions for doing them right…
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July 2019
Read a few tips to help your lawn and gardens thrive this summer…
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July 2019
Isolating the Contribution of Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation
As the use of spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation is increasing in both new and existing
homes, prospective users often ask the question: "How much can SPF impact my heating and
cooling costs?"…
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July 2019
About 40 to 50 years ago, Houston home builders began switching from convention concrete & rebar foundations to post-tension slab foundations. This change was not made because post-tension slabs make for a better foundation…
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January 2019
Calculating loads is just the first step. For a trouble-free system that's long on comfort, you need to specify the equipment, design the ductwork, and make certain everything is correctly installed…
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January 2019
Repeat customer building another home through us…
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December 2018
The City of Houston recently made some major revisions to Chapter 19, the floodplain ordinance, and to Chapters 9 and 13 regarding drainage in the infrastructure design manual. These new regulation changes went into effect on September 1…
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December 2018
In 2015, the City of Houston Planning Department began a process to adopt design guidelines for the Heights historic districts of East, West and South. This process included numerous public meetings and presentations from consultants, residents and city staff…
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December 2018
We offer this document to alert builders, homeowners and policy makers of two concerns that worry us about homes built on reclaimed farm and ranchland.
The first concern relates to expansive soils that are unsuitable for building and that cause foundation problems and threaten the structural integrity of homes…
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November 6, 2018
When building a new home or commercial space, building contractors look for the best way to
create a tight building envelope that provides a reliable air and moisture barrier.
RoyOMartin's Eclipse weather resistant barrier (WRB) is manufactured on to the OSB,
combining house wrap and reflective insulation into a single panel. Unlike a traditional OSB and
house wrap system, no extra wrapping or stapling is needed—simply tape the seams to complete
the barrier. This tape and panel product means the air and moisture barrier is attained at the
sheathing level.
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October 2018
The problems associated with pumping too much water quickly from the aquifers in our region are well-documented. For over 50 years, utilities in Harris and surrounding counties have been limiting their groundwater pumpage and supplementing their supplies with surface water from nearby lakes because overreliance on ground water has led to declining water levels.
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September 2018
New Regulations for the City of Houston Effective September 1, 2018.
In an attempt to take action following Hurricane Harvey, the City of Houston has taken an aggressive, accelerated and largely emotional response by adopting onerous building and drainage regulation changes that went into effect on September 1.
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September 2018
Basic preparedness tips, preparing your home, and understanding what to during and after a hurricane
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September 2018
A good home gardener recognizes the symptoms of plant diseases quickly and takes steps to prevent or control them.
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August 2018
Interest rates are rising. At this point in the expansion, which is supported by improved GDP growth and a nearly 50-year low for unemployment, the Federal Reserve's monetary policy committee is raising its target for the federal funds rate (a short-term interest rate) to normalize monetary policy.
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July 2018
Don't wait until waters are rising in your area and flood threatens. Take steps now that will make your life much easier when a flood occurs.
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June 2018
Design a home will continue to be accessible, safe and stylish as the years go by.
By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be a few minutes older. A relatively new term in the design world is “aging in place.” And it’s exactly that growing older in your own home comfortably and safely.
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June 2018
A daughter who's been there shares 9 tips on tailoring a home for a loved one with dementia.
It's not easy being a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. I learned this the hard way when my father was diagnosed five years ago and began to need a lot more help...
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June 2018
The San Jacinto River Authority officially created a new flood management division April 26
to help coordinate flood management initiatives throughout the region.
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June 2018
The warm humid days will soon provide insects with new perfect conditions for
population growth. Be ready to see the common, and some of the uncommon ones in
the days ahead.
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June 2018
The crowd-sourced review website Yelp can be useful for location where to eat and
shop, and for homebuyers researching what amenities a housing market has to offer.
Now Yelp and other digital platforms are being considered a useful, complementary
data tool for developers, builders, and business owners to use.
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June 2018
If you read my article last month, (thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do so)
you know that in my effort to depart from writing about the housing market…
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April 2018
This critical piece of hardware helps determine whether a brick wall stands or falls, and lots of installers get it wrong…
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April 2018
On April 4, the Houston City Council voted to dramatically increase regulations on building within the 100 and 500 year floodplains
The proposal to amend Chapter 19, the City's Floodplain Regulation Ordinance, was first introduced in late January and was
uncharacteristically fast-tracked through the ordinance revision process…
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April 2018
Proud new 2018 customer placing their Owner Builder Network sign on their new lot at Texas Grand Ranch Estates!
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February 2018
House line must be stubbed out 18 inches to the right of CenterPoint Energy service riser, as you face meter location. House line must be threaded and extended from brick at least 3 inches, but not more than 4 inches. House line stub out should be 30 inches above final ground level (allow for flower beds).
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November 2017
What’s likely happen when you bond a rigid material to one that moves? In the case of tile mortared directly to subfloor, even a slight movement in the floor can break the mortar’s adhesive bond or open cracks in the grout lines or the tiles themselves. Cracked tile is usually a sign of poor preparation of the substrate. This could include a framed floor that has too much bounce or improper isolation of the tile from the subfloor, whatever that subfloor may be.
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November 2017
Conroe is the fastest growing city in the nation? That seems to be the reaction lately when talking with folds about the recent news. If you live in or around the Montgomery County area, chances are you have also heard friends, family and co-workers discussing the recent announcement that Conroe topped the list of "the fastest growing cities in the nation," according to the U.S. Census Bureau. As with most statistics, parameters can be set to help hurt or aid the desired outcome, however, coming from a non-biased source certainly has turned some heads.
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October 2017
Read about how to make wind resistant construction.
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October 2017
LP SmartSide Trim & Siding looks like and works and cuts like wood, but offers the durability of LP engineered wood, with the manufacturer's proprietary four-component SmartGuard manufacturing process for strength and resistance to termites and decay. LP offers a complete line of high performance trim and siding products to complement almost any building style.
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August 2017
Boise Cascade manufactures Versa-Lam and Versa-Stud laminated veneer and I-joist brands BCI Joists and AllJoists. Its engineered wood products and in uniform depths and thicknesses are stronger than dimensional lumber. Consequently, framers can use longer spans and fewer pieces, which can yield time savings during cutting, fitting, and nailing and result in less material waist. Boise Cascade offers a lifetime warranty and problem-solving field support.
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August 2017
Follow these directions for disinfecting your well if your water has coliform bacteria in it. This disinfection process treats only biological contaminants, not chemical or mineral contaminants.
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August 2017
A survival guide, tips and a checklist on what to do before, during, and after a hurricane or flood.
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March 2017
A bid based on incomplete set of drawings spells trouble for everyone. "We know the plans aren't finalized, but we'd like to get some idea of costs. We won't make any decisions based on these numbers; we just want a ballpark figure." So begins all too many problem projects.
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December 2016
Many designers go through a minimalist period, but not usually in the second grade. Brian Patrick Flynn recalls that, as a 6 year-old, anytime he wasn't playing sports he was rearranging furniture in his bedroom. He applied production studies in college, then worked in television after graduation. "I got my first producing gig in 2003 on a remodeling show." Flynn says. "My friends said I should get a job on one of the show's projects, so I did-on 'Property Brothers!"...
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December 2016
Owning a home has earned yet another victory over renting, according to data from Trulia, which shows that it is now 37.7 percent cheaper to buy a home
than to rent one in the top 100 U.S. cities. That's the highest mark since 2012, when it was 40.7 cheaper to buy than to rent, and 0.5 percentage points
higher than in 2015. Trulia found it is cheaper to buy than to rent in each metro, as well...
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December 2016
In bathroom designs that promote health and wellness, custom showers have become a must. But if you're thinking human car wash with body sprays aplenty,
think again. Perceptions of showering have changed, and satisfaction is no longer based on water volume, says Les Petch, senior product manager for performance
showering products at Kohler. With water shortages a growing concern, busy homeowners are finding spa-like bliss in simple setups that provide...
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November 2016
Fewer kids today will know the struggles of sharing a room with a sibling. Or, from another perspective, more child-free adults will have sufficient space
for their home spas and man caves. The reason: larger homes. According to data from the U.S. Census Survey of Construction and analysis from the NAHB,
36 percent of U.S. single-family homes started in 2015 have four bedrooms, and 11 increases from previous rates of 29 percent and 6 percent...
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October 14, 2016
Construction defect litigation is no joke, and cases citing poor stucco performance have been on court dockets since at least the 1990s. These days, it
seems, any fissure might be leveraged into a lawsuit. But delivering a quality three-coat stucco job isn't a mystery. The science behind it is sound,
and building codes and industry standards prescribe everything from the right material ratios in the mix to the thickness of each coat...
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October 13, 2016
A tighter building envelope makes it more important than ever to be informed and vigilant about mold. Back in 2001, a couple living just outside Austin,
Texas won a suit against a subsidiary of Farmers Insurance Group for bad faith in handling what had begun as a water leak and eventually turned into black
mold, making the home's occupants sick and rotting out their 22-room mansion...
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October 11, 2016
Beginning with all new homes permitted September 1, the statewide move to the 2015 energy code ushers in some significant changes for single-family and
low-rise (three stories and lower) multifamily construction. The catalyst for these changes is HB 1736, a Texas Association of Builders (TAB) priority
bill, passed by the legislature last session...
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October 2016
Sherwin-Williams exterior stain can be used for siding and trim, decks and porches, and all other outdoor living spaces. Learn how to apply exterior wood
stain with tips from our stain experts. From cedar siding to redwood deck, wood offers a rich, warm welcome to any home. A good house stain not only beautifies
your home's exterior, it preserves and protects exterior wood from nature's harshest elements...
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October 2016
When it comes to a home's capacity to deal with moisture, air flow and heat, isn't high performance simply building better? There are two routes home
builders can take to try to engineer their homes to produce as much energy as they consume: one is through the envelope, the other is through the systems...
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September 2016
Open and dynamic kitchens that seamlessly blend with the rest of the home are at the top of homeowners' wish lists for 2016, according to the latest Zillow
Digs Home Trend forecast. The analysis of popular photos on the real estate listing website and opinions of interior design experts revealed tuxedo or
two-toned painted cabinets in complementary colors, hidden appliances, mixed hardware finishes, and wood paneling...
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September 7, 2016
These take-notice color schemes are total mood boosters. Because beige is no way to start the day...
The light-filled master bedroom designed by Anne Maxwell Foster and Suysel dePedro Cunningham is covered in Sandberg's Raphael wallpaper. A Tilton Fenwick
for Target headboard is upholstered in the duo's Jax fabric for Duralee...
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September 2016
A recent research report by the NAHB examines effective property tax rates for more than 3,100 counties, including the lowest and highest tract rates
within each county, and also compares rates by state...
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August 2016
Keeping water away from where it doesn't belong is all in the details. Every time you drive a large volume of water onto a building surface you run the
risk of it penetrating that surface and getting into the structure. It's as true for wind-driven rain on a stucco wall as it is for a multi-head luxury
walk-in shower...
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August 2016
Certification Action Line features questions and answers typical of those appearing in Water Quality Association certification examinations. Some answers
may not satisfy everyone or every condition. Q. When osmotic shock occurs, it does not directly affect the membrane. (True or False)...
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July 2016
You look outside and see toppled trees and drooping branches caused by ice or a severe thunderstorm. Scammers see the same thing and view it as a chance
to swindle. As winter quickly approaches, experts warn that unscrupulous contractors will soon be gearing up to swoop into storm-damaged neighborhoods
to offer to clean up every branch, limb and twig. But they typically end up taking their victims' money, often fleeing to another state...
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June 2016
A new report from Freedonia Group forecasts that U.S. demand for siding will grow 5.6 percent per year to 100.0 million squares in 2019, valued at $10.7
billion. A rebound in building construction activity, in particular double-digit gains in housing completions, will stimulate siding demand in the new
residential market, which is expected to become the largest siding market by 2019...
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June 2016
S&P Dow Jones indices released the most recent results for the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices. Data released for March 2016 shows home process
continued their rise across the country over the past 12 months. Year over year, the S&P/Case-Shiller U.S. National Home price Index---covering all nine
U.S. census divisions---reports a 5.2 percent annual gain in March...
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June 2016
If the wind shifts your shingles, you may notice stains on your ceiling or walls. If this occurs, you must contact a roofing repair company immediately.
Several, like roofing companies, will provide free estimates. Loose flashings or siding, corroded fascia boards and dormant chimneys are all opportunities
for animals to escape the chilly, wet weather...
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June 2016
Lien waivers shouldn't be treated as something to obtain without a set schedule. In order to create a successful lien waiver policy and obtain a
maximum amount of protection from potential financial risk, you must create a structured and ordered policy. Each payment should be associated with a
lien waiver...
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June 2016
This ceiling is made with a smooth cedar and stained with a clear finish. It has a vaulted center section with a hand-painted tin ceiling from which the
chandelier hangs. A surround system is installed with a large TV over the fireplace. A smaller TV is inside the garage window over the hot tub...
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June 2016
Across the country, remodelers are creating unique outdoor living spaces for clients that enhance views, provide cooking and entertainment space, and
more. Adam M. Heath originally was asked to install a segmental block retaining wall along a more than 120 ft. section of rear yard. After walking the
property, talking with the family and seeing more potential...
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May 2016
The safety and purity of your drinking water and the efficient operation of your private well system depends on a well-organized maintenance program.
Protect your investment by regularly inspecting your well, testing your water, maintaining any water treatment devices, and your septic system!
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May 2016
The list of new responsibilities can seem overwhelming when you buy a home or become a first-time homeowner. One responsibility that tends to get overlooked
until it becomes a larger issue is that of household pests. A household pest is "a destructive insect or other animal that attacks" your home...
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May 2016
With the right design tips and techniques, you can turn your snug room into a dreamy retreat. From clever storage solutions to multitasking furniture,
these great ideas will breathe new life into your compact scheme. If all white isn't for you, bring in your favorite colors, but in a thoughtful way.
The brights are limited to reds and oranges - which work beautifully with the brick wall and wooden furniture - and are teamed with plenty of white for
an airy feel...
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May 2016
What does SEER mean?Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio. It is the energy efficiency of the condensing unit. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system
will be....
I got bids from several A/C contractors and the prices are very different. How should I choose to be sure that I'm getting the best deal?
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May 2016
Since every staging job is different, costs vary. For a consultation with a professional stager who will inspect your home and provide a list of suggestions,
expect to pay about $350, says Barb Schwarz, founder of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals, or IAHSP. Homeowners can do the work
themselves, or they can pay the stager to make the changes. If furniture or other supplies need to be rented, the homeowner will also pay the rental fees...
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May 2016
There are two different types of staging, depending on whether a home is occupied or vacant. "Most of us have too much stuff in our homes," says Shell
Brondnax, president of the Real Estate Staging Association, or RESA, a trade group in Valley Springs, Calif. One of the biggest tasks in staging an occupied
home is reducing the clutter and depersonalizing the place. You'll want to reduce the number of books on bookshelves, paint rooms in neutral colors...
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May 2016
Creating the illusion of space with mirrors is a classic trick that works every time. Perfect for smaller bedrooms, a mirrored wall will visually double
the space. This one does the job in style, its high position keeping the effect subtle and the antiqued surface looking elegant. Having custom furniture
made for your space can be a very worthwhile investment. This twin bed has been designed to fit under the eaves perfectly, leaving plenty of space in
the rest of the room...
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April 2016
Working wet soil can do long term damage to the integrity of the bed/garden itself. Allow the soil to dry out for several days. Push a trowel into the
soil and wiggle it back and forth, if visible water is in the hole, or the soil looks glossy, wait a few more days...
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April 2016
As cities and suburbs expand, wooded lands are being developed into commercial and residential sites. Homes are constructed in the midst of trees to take
advantage of the aesthetic and environmental value of the wooded lots. Wooded properties can be worth as much as 20 percent more than those without trees,
and people value the opportunity to live among trees...
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May 2014
Kitchens and baths are getting larger and more upscale, according to a panel of residential architects reporting to the Home Design Trends Survey. The
fourth-quarter findings collected by the American institute of Architects (AIA) reflected a stronger market compared with the last quarter of 2012 as
projects improved steadily over the past two years...
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June 27, 2013
Your Aerobic Wastewater Treatment Plant is a "living" machine that houses a micro-organism "bug colony" that consumes organic waste. These micro-organisms
require oxygen & appropriate "food" (organic waste devoid of toxins) to survive.
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April 25, 2013
The safety and purity of your drinking water and the efficient operation of your private well system depends on a well-organized maintenance program.
Protect your investments through regular inspection, testing and repair. The first step in properly maintaining your water system is creating a well maintenance
log.
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April 3, 2013
You've had your fridge forever. With the exception of some crumbling parts of the seal, it's in pretty good shape and keeps your food cold. Why worry
about budgeting for an upgrade? When evaluating older appliances, one question emerges...
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November 2012
More tornadoes strike Texas than any other state. Sophisticated warning systems
exist, but they're no substitute for preparedness and smart action.
Tornado Watch: Conditions are right for a tornado. Watch the Sky.
Warning: A tornado has been spotted. Take cover immediately...
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October 25, 2012
Energy audit RES Check (2012 State Code) prepared for building permitting of city jurisdiction as required. The energy consultation is a comprehensive
analysis of the energy usage in your home. The goal of this analysis is to evaluate your home's energy efficiency.
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September 25, 2012
Three Texas cities have been named among the ten best small towns for housing investment. According to the rankings by HomeVestors of America and Local
Market Monitor, Corpus Christi (No. 4), Tyler, (No. 7) and Longview (No. 8) are considered less risky for investors looking to purchase single-family
homes as rental properties.
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September 12, 2012
Storms can form quickly leaving little or no time to prepare. If you have time to prepare before a storm, there are a few items you'll want to gather
to keep you and all family members safe. Prepare for a power outage and purchase food that won't perish quickly, pickup batteries (C and D batteries are
the most common ones used for flash lights and portable stereo), and most importantly have water and ice ready...
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July 8, 2011
Grimm + Parker Architects, based in Calverton, Maryland, is one of the region's leaders in community-based architecture. Since 1972, the company has applied
the ideas that communities are not merely a place to live but a place to thrive in with countless facilities, including community centers, performing
arts centers, libraries, educational facilities and more...
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July 8, 2011
Along the coast and in hurricane zones, homebuilders have unique concerns about the quality of their building materials, such as the ability of fasteners
to stay in place in winds up to 150 miles per hour. These concerns add a new dimension to the age-old debate over which is better, plywood or OSB. The
city of Galveston, Texas, recently jumped into the debate, bringing the matter to an official vote before the city council...
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March 21, 2011
™ Home Energy Monitor and Management System General Electric anticipates introducing the Nucleus with
Brillion ™ technology this year. Designed for areas where utility rates are based on time-of-use, GE states that the product will work
in homes with smart meters, plugging into any standard electrical outlet to track electricity use and allow users...
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December 21, 2010
The U.S. Department of Energy recognizes radiant barriers as a way to reduce summer heat gain and lower cooling energy usage. An independent study in
2010 by ConSol reinforced this, finding that radiant barrier sheathing is a top energy-efficient technology when building a new home. The study indicated
that radiant barrier sheathing is on of the top three energy-efficient...
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December 21, 2010
The Department of Energy (DOE) launched a pilot program on November 9 designed to make it easier to gage a home's energy efficiency. Home Energy Score
compares a home against others in the region and provides custom recommendations on how to reduce energy costs. It evaluates 40 points to generate a score
ranging from one to ten...
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April 29, 2010
™™ insulation in a unique position as being the only
spray foam insulation that can be left as sprayed in the attic assembly. All other Icynene®...
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April 21, 2010
The Department of Energy (DOE) launched a pilot program on November 9 designed to Debate Over Sprinklers in New Homes Becomes a Hot Issue Across The Nation
Georgia lawmakers this week rejected a residential sprinkler mandate. By: John Caulfield. The ongoing battle between builders
and fire service officials over building codes that mandate the installation of fire sprinklers into new homes is being played out this spring...
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March 31, 2010
Make Room For Grandparents and Boomerangs The number of Americans living in multigenerational households grew by 2.6 million from 2007 to 2008 and continues
to rise, according to a Pew Research Study. By: Jenny Sullivan. Does that nifty new floor plan of yours have enough bathrooms?
It's a question that may be worth revisiting in...
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March 8, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Small Business Commerce Association's Award Honors the Achievement. Owner Builder Network has been
selected for the 2009 Best of Business Award in the Single-family housing construction category by the Small Business Commerce Association (SBCA) The
Small Business Commerce Association (SBCA) is pleased to announce that Owner...
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February 23, 2010
If you're thinking about building your own custom home, there are some simple questions you should ask yourself, and some answers you should get before
starting. What are the reasons I should be my on builder? In a word---Money! In another word---Control! Let's talk about money first. There is no better
way to build equity than to be an owner builder---but the...
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February 10, 2010
On January 28,2010 Sheila Kramer, Founder of Owner Builder Network, received a Proclamation from the City of Houston's Mayor Annise Parker for the company's
contribution to the City's building...
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January 12, 2010
Kitchen and Bath Design Trends Announced for 2010 Although the most popular features have remained unchanged, some new trends are gaining traction. According
to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, trends in kitchen and bath design for 2010 won't be much different from the previous year, although...
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January 12, 2010
Builders' Tip: Caulking an Undermount Sink in Place Click for larger image. I needed to affix a stainless-steel undermount sink to a granite countertop
that was already installed on its cabinet bases. One problem I faced in tackling the job was how to get a good silicone-caulk seal between the underside
of the counter and...
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January 11, 2010
Earth Advantage Institute Selects Top 10 Green Building Trends For 2010 Trends range from energy scores for homes to web-based displays that track energy
usage in real time. Matt Phair, HousingZone Contributing Editor January 8, 2010 HousingZone The Earth Advantage Institute, a leading nonprofit green building
resource that has certified more than 11,000 sustainable homes, today...
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January 07, 2010
No-Maintenance Myth Our virtual home designer and building scientist weigh in on defining true sustainability. By: Rich Binsacca. Glimpse the Future:
The Home for the New Economy will debut exclusively online, with narrated and photo-realistic virtual tours, at the 2010 International
Builders' Show and remain open through June...
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January 06, 2010
Census Bureau News Release January 4, 2010 HousingZone Texas gained more people than any other state between July 1, 2008, and July 1, 2009 (478,000),
followed by California (381,000), North Carolina (134,000), Georgia (131,000) and Florida (114,000), according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates
California remained the most populous state, with a July 1, 2009, population of 37...
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January 06, 2010
Brick Holds Up as Homeowners' Siding of Choice New poll finds preferences remain highly regional. By: John Caulfield. More than 70% of Americans, and
more than half of all homeowners, express a preference for house siding. And a new survey of more than 2,000 people across the country finds that brick
is still favored over other types of...
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November 5, 2009
What measures determine if a home is green? Does using recycled materials make a home green? How about locating the home on reclaimed land? Or, what if
the homeowners have energy bills significantly lower than those for a similar-sized conventional home?According to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC),
it takes more than using a few sustainable practices to build a...
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November 05, 2009
A good credit score translates into lower interest rates for home-shopping borrowers. In a mortgage lender's eyes, the higher your score is, the less
risk you are, and the more likely it is you will pay off your debt. For this reason, borrowers with lower scores usually end up paying higher interest
rates on their loans. If this is you, don't panic...
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November 05, 2009
Buying a home is about to get cheaper for a whole new crop of homebuyers — $6,500 cheaper.First-time homebuyers have been getting tax credits of
up to $8,000 since January as part of the economic stimulus package enacted earlier this year. But with the program scheduled to expire at the end of
November, the House voted 403-12 Thursday to extend and expand the tax credit to include many...
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November 04, 2009
Hardly anyone enjoys doing the laundry, but today the task is much easier than it was a few decades ago. A job that once required a washboard and considerable
elbow grease now requires little more than the push of a button. These days, the hard part is picking the right washing machine to buy. Anyone who goes
to an appliance store to look at washing machines encounters what...
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October 27, 2009
Effective April, 22, 2010, if you are working for compensation on a project that will disturb paint in a home, school, or childcare facility built prior
to 1978, you must comply with the new lead safety regulations, including: Painting and property management firms must be EPA-certified and their employees
must be trained in the use of lead-safe work practices...
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October 27, 2009
Water-saving toilets are now standard on all new construction because of a 1992 federal mandate for plumbing fixture manufacturers. Also known as low-flow
toilets, water-saving toilets use 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf) of water or less, compared with older toilets that use 3.5, 5.0, and up to 7.0 gpf. The
1.6 gpf models significantly reduce the amount of fresh water consumed...
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October 27, 2009
Low-flow faucets and showerheads sound like they deliver low water pressure, but that's not too appealing to a homeowner who's working at the kitchen
sink or trying to start off the day with an invigorating shower. In actuality, good low-flow or water-saving faucets and showerheads deliver what feels
like full-volume water. They provide equal or better performance than conventional fixtures...
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October 27, 2009
Solid surface countertops were a revolution of sorts when they were first introduced. Until then most modern countertops were limited to tile or laminate.
Solid surface has come a long way however, available in a vast array of colors and patterns, made by numerous manufacturers. The term "solid surface"
may seem a bit obvious since all countertops are "solid"...
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October 27, 2009
Residential fire sprinkler technology has been around for several decades, yet there has never been a strong market demand for these potential life-saving
devices. Almost 30 years ago, the idea of installing a system in the home was first developed, and since then manufacturers have done their best to educate
consumers and create new markets...
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October 27, 2009
Light Emitting Diode, more commonly known as "LED", represents the cutting edge of lighting technology. LEDs operate on a totally different concept than
traditional incandescent style lights. Instead of using a brittle metal filament that is susceptible to shock and vibration, LEDs are solid-state devices
with no moving parts utilizing an electronic chip that is encapsulated in an epoxy...
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October 27, 2009
By following some basic guidelines for surface preparation, primer application, and topcoat application, it's possible to avoid the majority of the headaches
associated with interior paint. Surface preparation Wall and ceiling surfaces should be completely dry before primer or paint is applied. Use a damp cloth
to remove loose dust and dirt created during the drywall installation...
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October 27, 2009
Check with your bank/Lending Institution as to what amount of insurance you will be required to carry. Determine what policies will have to be issued
by your closing date. Determine if your location is in a designated flood zone. If so, flood insurance will be a requirement as opposed to optional.
A "pre-construction...
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October 27, 2009
Green building benefits the environment, the builders, the community at large, and of course the individual homeowner. This article focuses specifically
on important benefits to the homeowner—better durability, energy savings, water savings, improved indoor air quality—and the green building
practices typically used to achieve these benefits. Durable A green home is a durable home...
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October 27, 2009
For anyone who intends to go the route of do-it-yourself landscaping, this article will share some really useful tips for you to get started. The very
first question that you should probably ask yourself is – "What do you want your landscaping to look like?" This question is best answered by reading
home decor and gardening magazines and visiting your neighbors' yards. That should give you...
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October 27, 2009
The Harris County Tax Office has a better idea. Following is a letter from Susan Banks, Director of Property Tax for the City of Houston: For several
years, the Harris County Tax Office has had a program used by lenders and tax agents to receive and pay their tax bills electronically. We are now offering
this program to any taxpayer with multiple accounts. As a GHBA member, the Tax...
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August 27, 2009
Apples vs. Oranges Appraisers need regulatory guidelines that acknowledge today's realities. By: Joe Robson Related Articles Save / Share Picture this:
For the first time in months a small builder sells a new home. The sales price cuts the builder's profit to the bone, but it's a reasonable price given
today's housing market. The buyers are well...
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August 18, 2009
Everyone has heard of the "credit crisis". No money for anyone. WRONG!! The only change in lending is the rules have tightened up. In too many cases,
people who cold not qualify or afford a mortgage before were still approved for loans they could not qualify or afford. That has changed. Monies for construction
loans or mortgage are still readily...
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July 08, 2009
A brick Exterior adds value and beauty to a new house, but it can also bring some unexpected problems. Brick is thought of as being extremely weatherproof,
so it's often used as the Exterior finish for high-end homes. However, brick is porous, and it absorbs moisture. This can lead to structural damage and
mold growth...
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July 08, 2009
Hurricanes are one of nature's most destructive forces, as witnessed in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina pummeled the Gulf Coast. FEMA estimates that Katrina
killed over 1,300 people, displaced 450,000 people, and wrecked over 300,000 single-family homes throughout Louisiana and Mississippi. Most of the havoc
caused by Katrina was flood-related...
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July 08, 2009
Window shopping is easy when you know what to look for. You'll find many styles, shapes, features and glass packages when looking for windows and doors.
But deciding on the perfect choice for your home and family is simple. Just take your time and assess your needs. Consider which style will best suit
your home and your family...
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July 08, 2009
You may recall the story of the statue built with clay feet. Even though the head, chest, and legs of the statue were made of strong metals, it only took
a single stone to bring the statue down. The same concept is true of new homes. All the best practice building in the world won't make a home durable,
comfortable, or safe if the soil beneath it is unstable. Poor quality soil is a real issue...
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July 08, 2009
Led lights also generate very little unwanted heat. The energy savings may be doubled in air-conditioned environments where each watt of incandescent
lighting can add another watt or more to the power needed for air conditioning. The EPA encourages the use of innovative light source technologies such
as led light bulbs...
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July 08, 2009
Many times you can judge a book by its cover, at least when it comes to selecting the type of siding for a home. If a siding looks expensive, it probably
is. And the same is true if it looks second rate. Is there a good-looking, durable siding that isn't too expensive? Fiber-cement siding has become a popular
alternative to many other sidings. It requires very little maintenance and has a very...
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July 08, 2009
Think stucco finish can stop rainwater and moisture in its tracks? Think again. Stucco finished are actually porous, which means that water can get sucked
up through the pores and enter into the walls. What's more, stucco can crack over time, practically inviting water to enter the home, damage the building
materials, and potentially produce mold...
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July 08, 2009
What are Aerobic Systems? Aerobic septic systems are used in situations where standard septic systems are not a viable option. In many cases, they are
used to replace failing septic systems. Aerobic systems are similar to septic systems in that they both use natural processes to treat wastewater...
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June 23, 2009
A large percentage of heat escapes through the attic and the walls of a home. However, a new approach to insulation can make a big difference.In order
to build a better thermal envelope, we need to look at the second law of thermodynamics. This law states that heat flows in one direction, from a warm
space to a cold one. For example, warm air inside a home will flow...
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March 31, 2009
There are many options available for anyone looking to build a new home or vacation residence. While most people opt for a traditional framed structure,
it should be noted that it is not the only option available. If you are a person with a desire to live in and with nature, perhaps it's time to consider
a more natural way to build...
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November 30, 2016
A new NRDC study shows that water heaters that use high efficiency heat pump technology—the same process that keeps your refrigerator cold—can
cut the amount of electricity used to heat water by half or more, saving significant amounts of energy and money on your household electricity bills.
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November 30, 2016
As we approach the end of another year, designers are thinking about what the most popular trends will be among consumers as they design homes for 2017.
When it comes to tile, the hottest trends for 2017 offer buyers a number of unique finish options for any kind of style, from "gritty chic" to "rustic
modern."
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November 30, 2016
The roof is one of the most important surfaces in a home, perhaps even more essential than the exterior walls. It must look good, be long-lasting, and
protect residents from all types of weather. Still, a roof is one of those things that many consumers don't think about until there is a blizzard, hail
storm, or rainstorm.
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November 30, 2016
When Meritage Homes began to ask its average buyer, a 36-year-old mother of three, how it could create better value in 2009, the subject of health kept
coming up. Moms were worried about kids with allergies and concerned about soaring child asthma rates. They'd read that environmental toxins could disrupt
children's hormone development and watched HGTV shows about people building houses that promote wellness. They said they had enough to think about without
having to worry about mold, offgassing, and radon.
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October 21, 2016
On Wednesday, Benjamin Moore revealed its 2017 Color of the Year at an event in the Stephan A. Schwarman Building of the New York Public Library. A bold
step south from last year's choice of "Simply White", "Shadow" is a rich amethyst that is anything but neutral.
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October 17, 2016
Over the weekend, a treaty was approved that aims to phase out the use of hydrofluorocarbons, which provide the vehicle through which heating and cooling
are exchanged, in HVAC equipment and appliances starting in 2019. Makers of this equipment now face the daunting task of finding replacements.
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October 10, 2016
This selection of products from the 15th annual BuildingGreen Top Products list presented at this week's 2016 Greenbuild Expo highlights the seven that
will transform the environmental impact of residential building.
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October 4, 2016
Curbed's Daniel Scheffler takes a look at seven new smart home products that are compatible with Apple's new Home app, which was released with Apple's
iOs 10 update earlier this month.
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July 2016
The share of middle-income adult's significantly shrank from 200 to 2014. The Pew Research Center examined 229 of the 381 U.S. metro areas and found that
in 203 of them the number of adults living in middle-income households fell over the last 14 years.
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July 2016
New products enter the construction market every year. Some stick around and some fall by the wayside. At Owner Builder Network, we are always looking
for products that will give our owner/builders the "most bang for their buck" in both money and quality! Here are a few products that we believe do just
that...they add value monetarily, structurally and they even add to the comfort factor of our clients' homes.Check out the article below and click here
to Contact Us to get your design process started!
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July 2016
Architects and designers are always challenged to keep up with current design trends in the residential housing market. Family foyer/entries with cubbies,
storage areas, benches, centrally located laundry rooms, open concept kitchen/living areas are just a few of the current trends we see in house designs
today. Here is an article published by The National Association of Home Builders on their website that highlights many popular design ideas. Check it
out! You will definitely find some interesting options! Owner Builder Network has an amazing design staff! Check out the article below and click here
to Contact Us to get your design process started!
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July 2016
From time to time we get questions about alternative types of construction. This term would encompass anything other than traditional stick-built construction
and include ICF Walls (Insulated Concrete Forms for walls), Steel Frame construction, SIPs System, Cargo Container construction, Earth Dome construction,
Barndominium construction (incorporating a home and barn together...and the list can go on and on and can even be inclusive of discussions of basements
and/or walkout basements for our area.
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July 2016
At Owner Builder Network we are all about helping our clients to get exactly what they want in the building process. For many of our clients, that means
they are looking for ways to save, be in control, and ensure their home is built to the best quality possible.
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March 2016Just splurged on some marble and copper homewares? You may want to stop reading.
While it seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the new year, trend forecasters and designers are already thinking well into 2017 – and there's
a big shake up of interior trends predicted.
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January 2016
Although the International Builders' Show focused largely on millennial homebuyers, the event also featured several sessions addressing design trends
for all levels of the housing market, from starter homes to luxury properties.
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August 2015
Insulation...What is the best option?...
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June 2015
These are words that many of us have thought and spoken at one time or another or hope to speak in the near future. Let's assume that you and your family
are at this place in your life right now. What are the first steps when you have made the decision to build a new custom home?
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June 2015
There are many times that we need a lawyer and are not sure who to go to. When we opened the doors of Owner Builder Network going on 15 years ago in Arlington, Texas, we knew we needed the services of a dependable title attorney and one that understood our program and could help to relate and explain the closing paperwork in an efficient and understandable way to our clients.
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June 2015
Owner Builder Network® has been operating in the greater Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex going on 15 years. We have
assisted over 1500 families to be their own builder over the years from the Red River to Graham to McKinney to Tyler to Waco and all points in between.
Our staff combined has over 60 years of solid construction experience. At OBN, we strive to use our experience to help you address the changing times
as they pertain to residential construction.
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May 2015
Wow! It has been sooo long since we have seen this kind of rain in our north Texas area...
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April 2015
Spring is definitely in the air! I know this because my car has the perpetual green dust on it, I make sure there is a Kleenex box within reach, and I
find myself taking pictures of flowers to make the background on my iPhone lock screen and home screen. The flowers that bloom along the roadsides and
at the nurseries after our long gray North Texas winter are such an awesome indication that spring is definitely here!
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March 2015
U.S. home buyers signed more contracts to buy existing homes in January than they have since August of 2013, according to the National Association of
Realtors...
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March 16, 2015
One of the main components that our clients appreciate about Owner Builder Network®, is the complete control over what actually goes into their houses from a structural standpoint as well as a finish viewpoint.
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December 2014
The Commerce Department reported Wednesday that sales of new U.S. single-family homes rose for a third straight month in October.
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November 2014
According to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI), nearly 62% of all homes sold nationwide last quarter
could be afforded by a family earning the national median income.
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November 2014
Yes! We Want to Build a House!! Now What? Read more to find out!
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November 2014
These times..."They are a changin'"! This is a saying that has been around for a long time and certainly applies to the construction industry as a whole
and for sure to the residential construction industry.
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November 2014
We are always looking for creative ways to help clients to keep their designs fresh and innovative and to help them "live" in their home while the home
serves their goals and purposes...
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November 2014
The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) 2014 Outdoor Design Trends survey found that homeowners remain very serious in their desire for fully
finished outdoor living areas...
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October 2014
Do you need a refresher on what should be maintained annually around your house? Look no further, as we have provided a checklist for you to ensure everything
is being kept in tiptop shape.
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November 13, 2013
Spray foam insulation is a great product. Homes insulated with it can be some of the most efficient and comfortable homes built. I've been in plenty of
homes insulated with spray foam and can tell you that, when done well, those homes are airtight and comfortable. I've also seen homes where the spray
foam was a waste of money.
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January 12, 2010
National Kitchen & Bath Association Reports Trends for 2010 Results are in from a recent survey of designers conducted by the National Kitchen &
Bath Association to reveal the key design trends for 2010. The results are in from a recent survey of designers conducted by the...
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