AOL Real Estate - Blog http://realestate.aol.com/blog AOL Real Estate - Blog http://realestate.aol.com/blog/media/feedlogo.gif AOL Real Estate - Blog http://realestate.aol.com/blog en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/A Case for Getting Rid of Lawns? (Or Not)http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/16/get-rid-of-lawns/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/16/get-rid-of-lawns/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/05/16/get-rid-of-lawns/#commentsFiled under:

backyard with wood deck and lawnhouse logic logo

By Lisa Kaplan Gordon

When I grew up, a lush, green lawn was every suburbanite's dream, a sign they'd achieved the American dream of homeownership and a weed-free front yard. Today, I still love a lawn. I love the look, feel and smell of grass. And I'm willing to pay almost $700 a year to the people -- mowers, weeders, aerators, chemical treaters -- who keep my turf looking great.

But suddenly, grass lawns are public enemy No. 1. Some drought-stricken places are banning new lawns because they are, basically, unquenchable. The anti-turf people say get rid of lawns because:
  • Mowers are loud and polluting.
  • Fertilizers contaminate the watershed.
  • Lawns gulp tens of thousands of gallons of water every time you irrigate them.
I live in Virginia, where we've got enough water -- for now. Still, in the heat of summer, I water at sunup. Not only because it's best for the lawn, but because I don't relish the fish eye I get from neighbors who don't share my love of fescue.

Why I Love Lawns

I believe lawns are a friend to man and beast. And so does the EPA, which says a healthy lawn:
  • Provides feeding grounds for birds, who munch on the insects and worms found beneath grass.
  • Prevents soil erosion.
  • Filters contaminants from rainwater runoff.
  • Absorbs airborne pollutants like dust and soot.
  • Converts carbon dioxide to oxygen, which helps clean the air.
Granted, plants and trees perform many of the same services. And many homeowners are replacing lawns with native species plants and even vegetable gardens. One of my neighbors, who has solar panels on her roof and a Chevy Volt in her driveway, has turned her front yard into a tomato and pumpkin patch. She's a lovely person. But her yard is a mess, with vines snaking every which way, leaf mulch and wood chips rotting in smoking mounds, wire cages dotting the landscape. Good luck trying to sell that house.

In fact, studies show that well-kept landscaping can add 15 percent to the price of a home. The studies don't parse the value of lawns alone, but a flawless, emerald lawn obviously makes a property look better and more saleable. I realize not everyone has a love affair with lawns. In fact, my HouseLogic colleagues have different views.

She Hates Grass

One HouseLogic contributor, Lara Edge, hates her lawn in Tennessee, which "serves no purpose except to sprout weeds," she says. Instead of mowing "outdoor carpeting," she'd rather grow vegetables in her front yard -- the only sunny, level spot on her property. Alas, her HOA prohibits veggies in the front yard, saying it hurts curb appeal.

"The notion that you're sacrificing curb appeal and beauty if you plant vegetables in your front yard is just plain wrong," Edge says. "A little nurturing goes a long way in creating edible beauty."

He Hates Weeds

John Riha, another HouseLogic contributor, loves his lawn; but the weeds love it more. "It's disappeared under a crazy quilt of every known type of common weed -- dandelions, crabgrass, nutsedge, purslane -- you name it, and I've got it," Riha says.

So, instead of waging a weed battle he won't win, he gradually replaces each weed he digs up with bulbs and plants indigenous to southern Oregon. Indigenous plants are much more likely to survive drought or cold snaps than plants imported from far-flung places. Plus, they're pretty.

Alternatives to Lawns

If no lawn, then what? Check out these ideas: This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
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]]>home maintenancelawncarelawnsyardsHouseLogic2013-05-16T11:30:00 00:00For Foreign Buyers, Tips to Purchase Your First U.S. Homehttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/16/foreign-buyers-tips-buy-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/16/foreign-buyers-tips-buy-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/16/foreign-buyers-tips-buy-home/#comments

By Dona DeZube

Nothing says you're truly an American like owning a home. And just over half of all foreign-born households living in the U.S. own their own home. If you're ready to join them, try these seven tips for American-style home buying success -- the process here may be quite different from what you're used to.

1. Be ready to prove who you are. You don't have to get your citizenship, a green card, or any particular type of visa before you buy a home. But you do need:

- An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. That's a number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service to foreign nationals who need to file income tax returns.
- A valid foreign passport, or two or more current photo identifications such as a driver's license, to show who you are.

Although property ownership isn't tied to immigration or visa status, there are rules about how long you can stay. So if you're not a citizen, check out U.S. visa requirements before you purchase.

2. Plan to get a mortgage. That way you don't have to save your money for years to become a homeowner and start building equity. The U.S. home loan market offers many safe, affordable mortgages, including ones that allow Muslims to buy a home without violating Islamic laws against paying interest. To get a U.S. mortgage, you must establish credit and earn a good credit score. To boost your score:

- Open U.S. bank and credit card accounts.
- Report all your income on your tax returns. Lenders use tax returns to verify your income and decide how much you can afford to borrow to buy a home.
- When it's time to apply for a mortgage, you'll find major banks with global operations have experience working with foreign buyers and tend to have a process for verifying credit established in other countries.

3. Work with a Realtor who is a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) and who has experience, training and education in helping foreign-born home buyers. An experienced real estate or title attorney can help you protect your interests, too.

Tell your Realtor how the home buying process works in your native country and ask her to explain U.S. home-buying customs to identify any differences. Even within the U.S., local differences exist in how people buy and sell homes. Knowing how homes are sold here and what to expect with closing costs, inspections and the negotiation process reduces your stress and helps you get a good deal on your first home.

4. Don't be shocked by Americans' casual attitudes toward buying or selling real estate; it's a byproduct of the relaxed U.S. business culture. Although real estate contracts must be in writing, the process leading up to the sales contract signing may be more informal and casual than it would be in your home country.

5. Learn to convert from the U.S. standard measurement into metric, or pick up a metric converter app so you can better estimate room and home sizes while shopping.

6. If you're not fluent in English, or prefer speaking in your native language, choose inspectors, mortgage bankers, and Realtors fluent in your own language. Although it's possible to get translated copies of standard real estate documents, you'll likely have to sign the English versions during your home purchase.

7. Consider all the real estate-related expenses you'll have as a home owner, including property taxes, home owners insurance, and maintenance costs. Set up a financial plan for your home so you know how much money to set aside for ongoing expenses.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
Your Guide to Using Patio Pavers
7 Tips to Fix Mistakes in Your Credit Report
Guide to Buying and Installing a Sprinkler System

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
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What It Costs to Own a Home

 

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]]>buying a homeforeign buyerstips to buy a homeHouseLogic2013-04-16T15:00:00 00:00Want a Patio? Try Stamped Concrete as a Low-Cost Alternativehttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/10/stamped-concrete-patios/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/10/stamped-concrete-patios/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/10/stamped-concrete-patios/#commentsFiled under: ,,

stamped concretehouselogic logo

By John Riha

A stamped concrete patio gives you the look and texture of a stone patio for a lot less than the real thing -- up to 50 percent less than the cost of natural slate or limestone. That's not all. Stamped concrete can mimic brick, cobblestones, cracked earth, and weathered wood. Add a bit of fun with leaf patterns, animal shapes, even dinosaur footprints. Best of all, a stamped concrete patio is low-maintenance: The "stones" won't settle over time, creating uneven surfaces, and there are no grout or joints that can open up to let grass and weeds sprout.

What's a Stamped Concrete Patio?

A stamped concrete patio is simply a concrete slab with a textured, embossed surface. The contractor:

- Pours and smooths the slab.
- Presses a pattern into the surface while the concrete is still wet and soft.
- For realism, adds color to the concrete as it's mixed, or sprays it on after the surface has been stamped.

Make sure you hire a contractor who's done stamping and has the examples to prove it. Check references.

What's the Deal With the Stamps?

The patterns are made using large, flexible polyurethane stamps. The stamps are about 2-by-2-feet square and an inch or two thick, and they're pressed into the wet concrete to create the textured finish. A concrete contractor may step on the stamps to press them into the concrete or use a tamping tool. Before putting the stamp on the concrete, the contractor sprays the patterned side of the stamp with a release agent that prevents concrete from sticking to it.

Using a colored release agent accents cracks and grout lines, giving the finish an "antique" look that enhances realism. One pattern usually is a set that includes several stamps, each one with varying textures and shapes, so the overall pattern isn't repeated too frequently. Stamps also have interlocking tabs so any grout lines align perfectly.

What's It Cost?

A stamped concrete patio costs $10-$15 per square foot, professionally installed. Here's a quick price comparison:

Plain concrete: $6-$12 per sq. ft.
Brick: $14-$20 per sq. ft.
Stone, slate, or marble: $17-$28 per sq. ft.
Concrete pavers: $13-$20 per sq. ft.

More: Love concrete (or at least its price)? We've got great ideas for concrete inside the home, too.

Can I Do It Myself?

Making a stamped concrete patio is a fairly simple process, but only skilled DIYers should attempt it. That's because concrete can be a tricky medium to work with:

o. It requires a properly installed base of compacted sand and gravel.
o. It's heavy; you'll need to be strong.
o. Concrete requires specialty tools to shape and smooth the surface (any specialty tool performs best in the hands of an experienced worker who knows how to use it).
o. Concrete sets up relatively quickly. Once it starts to harden, it's difficult to apply the stamps.
o. A mistake in concrete is permanent.

You can rent concrete stamps at rental outlets and concrete supply stores for about $25 per day per stamp. Doing your own work saves 20 percent to 50 percent of the cost of a professionally installed slab and stamped concrete finish.

Any Drawbacks to a Stamped Concrete Patio?

Very few:

Deep depressions. Although stamped concrete is a good choice for ADA accessibility, be wary of deeply embossed patterns; all that texture may be tempting, but it creates uneven surfaces that make patio furniture wobble and may be hazardous for those with limited mobility. Accessibility guidelines require bumps and ridges on walking surfaces be no more than ¼-inch high.

Fair-weather color. Although you'll have more color options with surface colorants, the colorants may flake off over time. Have your concrete dyed while it's being mixed for a more permanent solution.

It's got a "tell." As good as stamped concrete may look, aficionados of real brick and stone will know the difference.

Can I Add a Stamped Finish to an Existing Patio Slab?

Yes, you can, as long as your old slab is stable and in good condition. You'll be raising the height of the old slab by an inch or so, so you'll want to make sure the new level doesn't interfere with existing steps or vents in your foundation walls. The new concrete shouldn't touch your siding, either. A pro will prepare the existing slab by cleaning it and covering it with a bonding agent that ensures good adhesion between the old concrete and the new. Then, your contractor will cover the old slab with new concrete and apply the stamps.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more about patios on HouseLogic:
DIY Paver Project: A Backyard Rescue in Action
Evaluate Your Yard for a Patio
Awe-Inspiring Patios Made of Stone

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
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Learn about Stamped-Concrete Patio Floor

 

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]]>DIYhome improvementpatiosstamped concreteHouseLogic2013-04-10T10:00:00 00:00Using New Consumer Protection Rules to Keep Your Lender Honesthttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/03/consumer-protection-rules-mortgage-lenders/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/03/consumer-protection-rules-mortgage-lenders/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/04/03/consumer-protection-rules-mortgage-lenders/#commentsFiled under:



By Dona DeZube

Tired of getting the runaround from your mortgage lender or servicer? Starting Jan. 10, 2014, you'll get consumer protections aimed at taming the worst habits mortgage lenders picked up during the mortgage foreclosure crisis. But realize that you need to follow specific procedures to make the protections work for you.

Companies have to offer you good customer service and set up procedures to ensure employees do their jobs correctly.

The fact that federal legislators put this in the law tells you a lot about how frustrated consumers have gotten with mortgage lenders and servicers. Servicers (the companies that collect your mortgage payments on behalf of the lender or investor who owns your loan) are now officially required to set up their operations so that employees can actually find information about your loan, respond to your questions and help you if you have a problem paying your mortgage.

The servicer has to answer your questions and respond to your mortgage problems pretty quickly.

How fast?

- Within 5 days, it has to admit it got your letter.

- It has 30 to 45 business days to fix an error, send you the info you need, or explain why it can't do either of those things.

Tip: You have to report errors and ask for information in writing. Calling doesn't trigger the protections, nor does jotting a note on the payment coupon. You have to write a letter and send it to the right address for complaints. Check your lender's or servicer's website for directions about where to send correspondence and keep copies of your letters for your records.

Mortgage servicers have to give you a regular statement explaining:

- What they did with the money you sent (what went into escrow, what went toward paying off your loan, etc.).

- What you owe this month.

- Any fees you owe for things like paying late.

- Your options if you have one of those pick-a-payment mortgages, where you can choose how much to repay each month.

Tip: Get the most from this rule by checking your statement each month. Question any extra fees and demand your money back in writing if you're charged fees you didn't owe.

Lenders must give you credit for payments you make on the day your payment arrives. They can't hold it for a few days, potentially making your payment "late," so they can charge you a late fee.

Tip: What's important when making your mortgage payment is to follow directions. Send the payment to the right address and use whatever payment forms the lender gives you, like a coupon book or monthly tear-off coupon in your statement. If you don't follow these protocols, the lender can hold your payment for five days.

By the way, if you send in a partial payment, the lender can tuck that money into a separate account instead of using it to repay your mortgage. But, under the new rules, it has to tell you on your statement that it's doing that.

You can get a reasonably fast answer when you ask about paying off your mortgage.

Tip: When you want to know how much exactly it will cost to pay off your mortgage on a particular day (like the day you're refinancing), write to ask your lender. That way, it has to give you an answer within seven business days. If you call to ask for a payoff, the lender doesn't have to send you the payoff statement within seven days.

Read the rest of this story on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
Plant These Fun Veggies Your Kids Will Love to Eat
Make Your Own Inexpensive Fertilizer
An Unlikely Place to Find Free Seeds for Your Garden

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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]]>Consumer Financial Protection Bureauconsumer protectionmortgage rulesmortgagesHouseLogic2013-04-03T12:00:00 00:00Renting a Room in Your House: Why It Might Not Be the Best Ideahttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/03/04/rent-room-house/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/03/04/rent-room-house/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/03/04/rent-room-house/#commentsFiled under: ,,

Renting a room in your house: For rent signHouselogic logo

By Donna DeZube

Find a great housemate and you can end up with a new best friend. Make a bad choice, and you can end up with a fiend. I had the fiend experience back in the '80s when I agreed to split a two-bedroom house with a college student whom I'd just met. It took me a few months to realize that the textbooks she carried around were a prop that she used to do a naughty schoolgirl routine at the massage parlor where she worked. Her chronic sniffles weren't from allergies; they were from too much cocaine snorting.

That was the end of my willingness to share my space until I met my husband. We have a lot of extra space in our current home, but I'd have to be really hard up for cash to rent out any of it. There are apparently several million people who disagree with me. The Census Bureau says 6.2 million Americans live in shared households (not counting the 15.8 million adults who live with their parents). Among the people who think I'm way wrong about house-sharing: Crystal Stemberger, a blogger who's rented a spare bedroom in her Houston home to five different people over the past six years.

Her first roommate was a friend who simply needed a place to live for a while. "A while" turned out to be four months and when he moved out, Stemberger and her husband decided that having housemates agreed with them. "We were addicted to the pretty easy extra money that was covering two-thirds of our mortgage by itself," she says. They put an ad on Craigslist to find a replacement renter. (Fortunately, the Stembergers didn't live in Boston, where at the time "Craigslist killer" Philip Markoff trolled for victims.)

Their second roommate was a single guy with a busy social life and a heavy workload that kept him out of the house. "When he was around, he was clean, friendly, and was always very helpful," Stemberger says. "He stayed for more than a year and we still miss him." A housemate that doesn't come home sounds good to me. Annamarie Pluhar, who blogs for the website Sharing Housing, says money is the first thing people think about. "You save literally thousands of dollars in a year," she says. But what ends up making a difference in your life is having help with household tasks, such as maintenance and pet sitting.

Pluhar adds to her list of positives: "having someone there to find you when you fall and can't get up"-- after a woman in her hometown of Brattleboro, Vt., slipped on an icy front sidewalk and died of hypothermia when no one noticed her. Great housemates not only find you when you're lying unconscious on your icy sidewalk, they create relationships that are different than the ones you have with friends, Pluhar says. "You pass each other in the kitchen and say, 'Hi,' or you spend 45 minutes talking about the latest things. It's a daily connection with someone who can really lift your life."

I get that if you're single, but if you're married, that's what your spouse allegedly does. Maybe a housemate would work out if he'd do all the things my husband and I don't want to do -- like tackle Laundry Mountain or seal the driveway.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
Another Happy Family Living in a Tiny House
Why Declutter Your House?
World's Easiest-to-Build House

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.
See celebrity real estate.

Airbnb Host Rents Rooms from His Apartment

 

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]]>rent a room in your houserentingHouseLogic2013-03-04T10:11:00 00:00Make Your Home Romantic for Valentine's Dayhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/13/romantic-home-valentines-day/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/13/romantic-home-valentines-day/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/13/romantic-home-valentines-day/#commentsFiled under:





By Cara Greenberg

The stuff of family life -- from excessive clutter to funky odors -- can be domestic downers, whether you're planning a sexy evening or simply want your home to be a peaceful retreat. Here's how to put the spice back in your home life.

Clutter Begone

Clutter is a national epidemic, and chances are you're living with the disease. Well-meaning plans to organize and store it all (by purchasing more stuff, such as shelving units and containers) are essentially rotten at the core.

As Gretchen Rubin, author of the book Happier at Home, says, "If you plan to store something in an inaccessible place, why are you keeping it?"

Whatever form your personal excess takes -- magazines, clothing, holiday decorations, or general bric-a-brac (flea-market addicts, we're looking at you) -- don't underestimate the havoc clutter can wreak on physical and mental health.

Dust, mold and mildew thrive in a cluttered house, seriously affecting air quality. Research shows that people who live with a high level of clutter are more likely to have headaches, asthma, allergies, and sleeping issues, not to mention feelings of low self-worth, fatigue, and depression.

As for your love life, Peter Walsh, an L.A-based organizational consultant, puts it bluntly: "It's tough to make love in a pigsty."

Don't love it, need it, or use it? Get rid of it: to charity organizations, via online or yard sales, or right into the trash. Get rid of your rationalizations, too: "Maybe someday this will come in handy ..." It's your space and your life; live it now and live it freely, not bursting at the seams with useless objects.

Un-Drecking the East/West Way

The queen of clutter-clearing is Karen Kingston, whose book, Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui, explores the psychological underpinnings of hoarding. Kingston provides a step-by-step, room-by-room walk-through of common clutter danger zones, from kitchen junk drawers to garages full of rusting tools.

A few of Kingston's tips:

- Don't allow things hanging from hooks and doorknobs or standing on the floor to prevent doors from opening fully, or clutter to accumulate in halls and passageways. That's a surefire way to "obstruct the flow of life-giving energy."

- Remove junk stashed under the bed; it affects your quality of sleep.

- Let go of old books. Kingston calls them a "relationship substitute," and says holding on to too many old books can keep you from absorbing new knowledge and ideas. Don't want that to happen!

- Be especially vigilant about "sentimental archives" of cards and letters, and clutter of the obsolete technology kind.

Sweeten the Air

Once you've got a handle on the objects, consider the air around them. On a warm day, throw open windows and turn on ceiling fans to maximize fresh air circulating through the house.

Other sweet tips:

- Banish musty odors and smells from cooking and pets by lighting soy-based candles that don't have a cloying artificial scent.

- Some green cleaning products add lovely aromas, such as lemon verbena and honeysuckle, and are good for the environment. Or, kick it old-school by adding the juice of a fresh lemon to your mop water.

- If you have a wood-burning fireplace, be sure to use dry, seasoned firewood that burns with less ash and soot. Make sure the fireplace is damped properly so smoke doesn't enter your rooms, and have the chimney cleaned at least once a season.

- Did you know that you can scent the air by burning fragrant things you can probably find in your kitchen cupboard or backyard? Try dried orange or lemon peels, dried pine cones, cinnamon sticks, and sprigs of rosemary or other aromatic herbs.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
Romancing the Home: The Sexy Kitchen
How to Make Your Home a Soothing Sanctuary
Home Improvement With Heart -- Just in Time for Valentine's Day

 

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]]>romantic homeromantic upgrades homeValentines DayValentines Day homeHouseLogic2013-02-13T10:30:00 00:00Northeast Winter Storm Nemo: Tips to Keep Your Home Safe in 'Historic' Blizzardhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/07/northeast-winter-storm-nemo-keep-home-safe/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/07/northeast-winter-storm-nemo-keep-home-safe/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/07/northeast-winter-storm-nemo-keep-home-safe/#commentsFiled under: ,



With a "potentially historic winter storm" ready to slam the Northeast, people's homes are in for it. Winter storm Nemo threatens to dump more than two feet of snow across New England, with major metros like New York City possibly getting a foot of the white stuff, the National Weather Service said. So what should you do to keep warm and safe during the blizzard? Try these tips:

o. If you have lost power, contact your provider ASAP and make sure your neighbors each call, too. Utilities often make repairs based on the number of homes on the block without power. Making sure everyone's power outage is reported can help you get repairs faster.

o. Use caution when venturing outside. Remember, downed power lines could be hidden under limbs and debris, and there is no way to tell if a line is energized. If you see downed or sagging power lines, or other damaged electrical equipment, stay far away. Notify authorities as soon as possible.

o. To prevent water pipes from freezing, keep faucets turned on slightly so that water drips from the tap. Know how to shut off water valves just in case a pipe bursts.

o. When the power goes out, switch off lights and appliances to prevent overloading circuits and damaging appliances when power is restored. Leave one lamp or switch on as a signal for when your power returns.

o. Close off unused rooms.

o. Cover windows at night.

o. Place a rolled-up rug or heavy towel in front of the bottom of doors to minimize any cold drafts from entering the house.

o. When using an alternative heat source, be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.

o. Keep 3 feet of space between space heaters and any surfaces that could burn, including walls and bedding. Choose space heaters with automatic shut-off in case they tip over.

o. Reverse the rotation of ceiling fan blades, which should spin clockwise at low speed during the winter months, so the warm air that has risen can be re-distributed around the room.

o. Keep a close eye on the temperature in your home. Infants and people over the age of 65 are more susceptible to the cold. You may want to stay with friends or relatives or go to a shelter if you cannot keep your home warm.

o. Before the next storm comes through, make sure to update and replenish your emergency preparedness kit with items such as water, nonperishable food, blankets, medications, a first-aid kit, flashlights, and batteries.

This story was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
When Snow Removal From Your Roof Is Necessary
Preventing Ice Dams
Winter Gardening: Plants That Provide Beauty All Year Round

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.

Follow us on Twitter at @AOLRealEstate or connect with AOL Real Estate on Facebook.

Northeast Braces For Winter Storm Nemo

 

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]]>blizzardblizzard safetyhome safety blizzardhome safety snow stormhome safety winter stormhome safety winter storm nemonortheast blizzardnortheast snowstormnortheast winter stormnortheast winter storm comingnortheast winter storm nemosnowstormwinter storm nemoHouseLogic2013-02-07T20:00:00 00:00Kitchen Remodeling Trends That Will Make Your Home Fabuloushttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/06/kitchen-remodeling-trends/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/06/kitchen-remodeling-trends/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/02/06/kitchen-remodeling-trends/#commentsFiled under: ,,


By John Riha

If you're looking to remodel your kitchen, we've got good news and bad news. First, the good stuff. According to trend experts Lita Dirks and Dominick Tringali, you don't have to shell out major cash to add space. Instead, look to expand what you already have. Vault your ceiling, add windows, squeeze in clever storage ideas. Make the space work harder, not bigger. Plus, relax. Casual kitchens are trending, with doo-dads and gee-gaws (think elaborate trim and vent hoods that look like medieval castles) going away, and simpler, sleeker designs coming on strong.

Speaking on kitchen trends at the 2013 International Builder's Show in Las Vegas, interior designer Dirks and architect Tringali teamed up to describe the new American kitchen as one piece of a larger, open floor plan. It's all part of a new kitchen gestalt that Dirks describes as the "prep-eat-play" triangle, with flexibility and casual living as key ingredients. The notion tosses the kitchen into a design blender along with living, dining, and family rooms, and frappes everything into communal happiness. Example: You can eat at a comfy banquette, or in front of the TV (don't tell your child-development counselor), or in the breakfast nook, or you can belly up to the island. No rules!

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The bad news (OK, it's not that bad) is that we've heard some of this before. Open floor plans have been around since the moon landing, and, yes, we like them. A lot. What we really have here is affirmation -- and freedom to create kitchens that are less ornate and yet have more personality. Just like you. Of course, Dirks and Trengali definitely have the pulse of today's home owner and offer some great takeaways. We've combined their goodies with our own kitchen trendspotting for 2013. If you're planning a kitchen redo, here's what you need to know:

Contemporary kitchens are in. Specifically, they're getting simpler and more modern, with less elaborate detail and trim. In fact, the National Kitchen and Bath Association reports that in its annual survey of kitchen designers, "transitional" design -- meaning a simple, more modern aesthetic -- has surpassed "traditional" as the preferred design for the first time in the association's history.

Kitchen cabinets are dark, or white. Darker, furniture-like finishes are popular, but so is pure white. The middle ground -- think natural oak -- is going away. Dark finishes help the kitchen integrate into the overall scheme; pure white is the ultimate accent color that readily complements the rest of the living area.

Islands rule. Kitchen islands are becoming more multi-dimensional, serving as food-prep areas, snack stations, wine storage, and display cabinets for objets d'art. Also, they're essential for directing traffic flow within an open floor plan, channeling guests toward comfy seating areas, for example. Small kitchen? Go with a rolling cart that's there when you need it.

Countertop revolution. Say hi to porcelain and ceramic slabs that look like stone, wood, and fabric, says Jamie Gold, a California designer. The product is made from clay, quartz, and feldspar that's subjected to high heat -- just like regular tile. Unlike other engineered countertops, this product doesn't use cements or resin binders. It's not readily available in the U.S. yet.

Appliances are disappearing. In the past, we loved our commercial-style kitchen appliances that made us look like we really knew how to cook. Now, appliances are hiding behind wood panels and faux veneers so they integrate better with the overall living space. New finishes, such as GE's slate and Whirlpool's Ice White, are bucking the stainless steel trend, but don't bet on stainless going away anytime soon -- it's still hot.

Espresso yourself. An eye-catching extra gives a kitchen a blast of personality. Cool sinks and high-tech faucets are au courant. Other possibilities include:
o. Stylish vent hood.
o. Ventless fireplace.
o. Espresso machine.
o. One-of-a-kind tiles as accents on kitchen backsplashes and countertops.

Glass finishes. Glistening glass is popping up everywhere in the kitchen, especially glass tiles installed as backsplashes. Applying clear glass panels over walls painted soft colors gives a deep sheen that harmonizes with today's contemporary looks. Bonus: It's easy to clean.

Grab some fresh air. Outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas are hot. Your indoor kitchen should have an outdoor doppelganger close by, available through wide glass doors.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
How to Avoid Foundation Problems
Organize Your Garage for Under $50
Small Bathroom Design Tips

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
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How to Remodel Your Kitchen Without Spending a Fortune

 

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]]>home improvementkitchen remodelkitchen remodel trendskitchen remodelingkitchen remodeling trendskitchen trendsremodelingrenovationHouseLogic2013-02-06T10:00:00 00:00Avoid These Home Tax Deduction and Credit Mistakeshttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/31/avoid-these-home-tax-deduction-and-credit-mistakes/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/31/avoid-these-home-tax-deduction-and-credit-mistakes/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/31/avoid-these-home-tax-deduction-and-credit-mistakes/#commentsFiled under:



By G. M. Filisko

As you calculate your tax returns, consider each home tax deduction and credit you are - and are not - entitled to. Running afoul of any of these 9 home-related tax mistakes - which tax pros say are especially common - can cost you money or draw the IRS to your doorstep.

Sin #1: Deducting the wrong year for property taxes

You take a tax deduction for property taxes in the year you (or the holder of your escrow account) actually paid them. Some taxing authorities work a year behind - that is, you're not billed for 2013 property taxes until 2014. But that's irrelevant to the feds.

Enter on your federal forms whatever amount you actually paid in 2013, no matter what the date is on your tax bill. Dave Hampton, CPA, tax manager at the Cincinnati accounting firm of Burke & Schindler, has seen home owners confuse payments for different years and claim the incorrect amount.

Sin No. 2: Confusing escrow amount for actual taxes paid

If your lender escrows funds to pay your property taxes, don't just deduct the amount escrowed, says Bob Meighan, CPA and vice president at TurboTax in San Diego. The regular amount you pay into your escrow account each month to cover property taxes is probably a little more or a little less than your property tax bill. Your lender will adjust the amount every year or so to realign the two.

For example, your tax bill might be $1,200, but your lender may have collected $1,100 or $1,300 in escrow over the year. Deduct only $1,200. Your lender will send you an official statement listing the actual taxes paid. Use that. Don't just add up 12 months of escrow property tax payments.

Sin No. 3: Deducting points paid to refinance

Deduct points you paid your lender to secure your mortgage in full for the year you bought your home. However, when you refinance, says Meighan, you must deduct points over the life of your new loan. If you paid $2,000 in points to refinance into a 15-year mortgage, your tax deduction is $133 per year.

Sin No. 4: Misjudging the home office tax deduction

This deduction may not be as good as it seems. It's complicated, often doesn't amount to much of a deduction, has to be recaptured if you turn a profit when you sell your home, and can pique the IRS's interest in your return. Hampton's advice: Claim it only if it's worth those drawbacks. If so, here's what to know about what you can write off.

Sin No. 5: Failing to repay the first-time home buyer tax credit

If you used the original home buyer tax credit in 2008, you must repay 1/15th of the credit over 15 years. If you used the tax credit in 2009, 2010, or 2011 and then sold your house or stopped using it as your primary residence, within 36 months of the purchase date, you also have to pay back the credit.

The IRS has a tool you can use to help figure out what you owe.

Sin No. 6: Failing to track home-related expenses

If the IRS comes a-knockin', don't be scrambling to compile your records. Many people forget to track home office and home maintenance and repair expenses, says Meighan. File away documents as you go. For example, save each manufacturer's certification statement for energy tax credits and lender or government statements to confirm property taxes paid.

Sin No. 7: Forgetting to keep track of capital gains

If you sold your main home last year, don't forget to pay capital gains taxes on any profit. You can exclude $250,000 (or $500,000 if you're a married couple) of any profits from taxes. So if you bought a home for $100,000 and sold it for $400,000, your capital gains are $300,000. If you're single, you owe taxes on $50,000 of gains. However, there are minimum time limits for holding property to take advantage of the exclusions, and other details. Consult IRS Publication 523.

Sin No. 8: Filing incorrectly for energy tax credits

If you made any eligible improvements in 2012 - or will in 2013 - such as installing energy-efficient windows and doors, you may be able to take a 10% tax credit (up to $500). But keep in mind, it's a lifetime credit. If you claimed the credit in any recent years, you're done. Fill out Form 5695.

Part II of the form, which covers systems eligible for a larger tax credit through 2016, such as geothermal heat pumps, can be incredibly complex and involves crosschecking with half a dozen other IRS forms. Read the instructions carefully.

Sin No. 9: Claiming too much for the mortgage interest tax deduction

You can deduct mortgage interest only up to $1 million of mortgage debt, says Meighan. If you have $1.2 million in mortgage debt, for example, deduct only the mortgage interest attributable to the first $1 million.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on Houselogic:
How to Deduct Your Mortgage Interest & Equity Loan Costs
What You Can and Can't Deduct When You Work From Home
First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit: Repayment Continues

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
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]]>home tax creditshome tax deductionIRSproperty taxTax centertax mistakestax returnstax sinstaxestaxes2013HouseLogic2013-01-31T17:50:00 00:00Home Remodeling Value Gaining Strength With Housing Recoveryhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/30/home-remodeling-value/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/30/home-remodeling-value/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/30/home-remodeling-value/#commentsFiled under: ,



By Christina Hoffmann

2013 is shaping up pretty sweetly for homeowners. First, there were the home owner-centric tax benefits (energy tax credits, PMI deduction, mortgage debt forgiveness) that Congress and the president extended through 2013; and now, we're seeing that our home improvement dollars are working harder. After several bruising years, spending on remodeling projects is up and so too is your return on your remodeling dollars. The national average percentage recoup on all 35 projects in Remodeling magazine's 2013 Cost vs. Value Report rose since last year. What a different story from 2012, when the ROI dropped in all but three categories.

The annual report is based on a survey that asks Realtors around the country to estimate what specific projects, from adding an attic bedroom to installing new windows, would recoup in their market at resale under current conditions. Of course, what you recoup depends on the specifics of your project, your market, and when you sell. But the report offers a great bird's-eye view of project costs and returns. So which projects offer the best value for the money?

Exterior projects like siding, window, and garage door replacements took seven of the top 10 spots in this year's list. (See a slideshow with the cost-vs-value details on exterior remodels.) That makes sense since Realtors always say curb appeal is half the battle when you're trying to sell.

Although it's not in the top 10, I was gratified to see that the backup generator project is up about 5 percentage points since 2012. One of our bloggers, Lisa Kaplan Gordon, invested in a portable generator last year after one too many storms and power outages, and despite the learning curve, she was glad she did. She had power when a lot of her neighbors didn't; she even shared power.

Indoors, the top-10 projects include a minor kitchen remodel (involving cabinet refacing and new countertops and appliances), which recouped 75.4% nationally. Kitchen redo aside, replacement projects, such as installing an entry door or new siding, tend to have a higher cost-to-value ratio than remodeling projects. But now that housing has turned a corner, homeowners are stepping up their remodeling plans.

Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies saw a 9 percent growth in remodeling in 2012 and predicts that trend will continue as more and more distressed properties are bought and rehabbed. The housing group says interest in energy-efficiency updates will keep on trucking, too. It's the one area where spending on remodeling projects rose during the recession. I'm betting the revived energy tax credit will add fuel to that trend.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
CES Highlights: Some Very Needy Appliances
You Might Face Tax-Filing Delay This Year
Should the Energy Department Tell You What Kind of Furnace to Buy?

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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Remodeling On A Budget: How To Add The Most Value To Your Home

 

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]]>cost vs value reporthome improvementhome remodeling valuehousing recoveryremodelingremodeling cost vs vaueremodeling valueHouseLogic2013-01-30T10:00:00 00:00Flu Prevention at Home: Tips to Keep Your House Free of the Bughttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/24/flu-prevention-tips-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/24/flu-prevention-tips-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/24/flu-prevention-tips-home/#commentsFiled under:



By Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Like everyone else in America, I've been trying to stay healthy during the current flu epidemic. So, when I heard that Heloise, of "Hints from Heloise," was speaking at the Home and Remodeling Show in Chantilly, Va., near my home, I grabbed the chance to contact her and ask how to make my home flu-free.

Hand-washing is key, says the Texan columnist and adviser on all things domestic; and vigorous hand rubbing is more important than water temperature or type of soap. Also, place paper towels or napkins at the sink that you can use and toss, don't use hand towels that just absorb and pass along germs.

More Anti-Flu Tips:

o. Line trashcans with plastic bags from the grocery so you can throw away used tissues without touching them.

o. Clean door handles and faucets with inexpensive rubbing alcohol -- 70% or 90% -- rather than commercial anti-bacterial wipes.

o. Don't forget to sanitize TV remote controls, especially if a sick person has touched them.

o. Crack a window or door to let in fresh air, rather than just breathing the same stale, germy air.

o. Wash sheets on sickbeds at least twice a week in the hottest water that they can stand and add a splash of chlorine bleach.

After we chatted about the flu, Heloise shared some remodeling advice -- she's all about advice -- on how to approach DIY projects.

Her top hint: Always assume a DIY project will take longer and require more skills than it looks on television. Then sit down with the directions a day or two before you begin. That way you'll know what tools and skills you need before you're knee-deep in nuts and bolts.

See more on HouseLogic:
CES Highlights: Some Very Needy Appliances
You Might Face Tax-Filing Delay This Year
Should the Energy Department Tell You What Kind of Furnace to Buy?

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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Doctors Can't Remember a Busier Flu Season

 

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]]>fluflu epidemicflu preventionflu prevention at homeflu prevention tipsflu tipsflu-free homeHouseLogic2013-01-24T10:00:00 00:00Quick and Easy Home Makeovers for the New Yearhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/08/quick-and-easy-home-makeovers-for-the-new-year/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/08/quick-and-easy-home-makeovers-for-the-new-year/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/08/quick-and-easy-home-makeovers-for-the-new-year/#commentsFiled under: ,,

easy home makeovers

By Lisa Kaplan Gordon

It's a new year, and an ambitious resolution that always falls on our list (of resolutions that inevitably get broken) is a home makeover. What a daunting task, it seems!

But there are easy home fixes that won't take you more than 15 minutes to do, and they'll have your place looking fresh and new. They might not constitute complete overhauls of your home, but they're guaranteed to accomplish the affect of a home makeover in a jiffy.

Related: Home Improvement Guides to Get You Started

Here are seven house pick-me-ups that take about as much time as brewing a pot of coffee and fit your schedule whenever you have a few extra minutes.

1. Switch the plates.

Upgrade your drab, plastic switch plates with snazzy covers that match or accent your decor. Even the most expensive brass switch plates cost less than $20 each.

Or, spend a buck for a plastic plate and decorate it yourself. Use craft paint, or cover the plate with decorative paper.

You also can switch outlet covers, but don't get too fancy. Outlet covers should blend with the wall.

2. Touch-up boo-boos.

A bit of new paint gives any room a fresh face, which is why you should keep extra color-matched paint after you remodel. (Also, make sure to choose colors that will help sell your home when the time comes.) Touch up banged-up baseboards, door and window trim, and wall marks that won't wash away. Even spot painting requires care; use a drop cloth to protect other surfaces.

3. Change out drawer and door hardware.

Upgrade your kitchen or bathroom by installing new pulls and knobs. Be sure to measure drawer pulls so you won't have to drill new holes. Check out these cute and economical ($4.95 for 8) zoo dresser-drawer knobs on Esty. Home improvement centers have a large selection of inexpensive pulls and knobs.

4. Update your mailbox.

Bump up curb appeal by spray-painting your old mailbox. You can freshen the same color, or go wild with bright hues. Don't forget to scrub off dirt and rust before painting with rust-proof paint ($6-$12 for a 10-oz. can; lots of decorative textures and colors).

5. Play the numbers game.

Decorative house numbers and plates give your home a custom and classy look. Some numbers are quick peel-and-stick affairs; others you'll have to screw in. They're made of wood, plastic, brass, stainless steel and other materials; $6 to $30 each.

6. Embellish your throne.

A new toilet seat gives you a regal bearing. Plastic and enameled seats ($12-$25) in a rainbow of colors add a dash of panache; a solid wood mahogany or walnut seat ($45-$60) makes an executive statement; cushioned seats ($15-$20) won't make a lasting impression -- and that's a good thing.

7. Declutter.

You'll be amazed how a 15-minute daily declutter can make a room look like new. First, get rid of stuff from your fridge door: that large, blank canvas will immediately brighten your kitchen. Corral mail and papers in decorative boxes with tops that can close and hide the mess. Organize school supplies in caddies. Every day, tame a new spot.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
7 One-and-Done Resolutions to Start the New Year Right
Estimate Solar's Payback for Your Home
6 Gardening Resolution I Swear I'll Keep This Year

Spring Home Makeover and Cleaning Tips


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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
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]]>easy home makeovershome improvementhome makeoverhome makeover tipsnewyear 2013quick home makeoversHouseLogic2013-01-08T09:50:00 00:00Tiny Homes That Feel Bigger Than They Really Arehttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/02/3-tiny-homes-that-are-living-large/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/02/3-tiny-homes-that-are-living-large/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2013/01/02/3-tiny-homes-that-are-living-large/#commentsFiled under: ,



By Deirdre Sullivan

Small is the new big. But if you think a tiny home would crimp your way of life, check out these videos. We found three weensy abodes that feel like much larger homes. The trick is that each micro-living place maximizes space to compliment the resident's lifestyle.

1. A home that doesn't skimp on traditional elements

This 500-sq.-ft. home was built in Vancouver by SmallWorks Studios. Despite its diminutive size, this mini-mansion was designed with plenty of traditional elements that make it feel like a much larger home. It packs a sleek small kitchen, a bedroom balcony, and a one-car garage.

Plus, its tiny footprint helps it be energy efficient.

In Vancouver, a home similar to this starts at around $200,000 and takes 16 weeks to build.




2. A place built for entertaining

A woman in Barcelona remodeled her tiny apartment so that she can have parties.

Although her bedroom eats up a quarter of her 128-square-foot dwelling, she didn't like the idea of installing a loft or Murphy bed to create more floor space.

So, with the help of a few clever storage built-ins that concealed extra chairs and an expandable kitchen table, the Spanish hostess is able to seat 12 for dinner.

FYI, when the party moves into the living room, she uses foldout cardboard stools to create more seating.




3. A man cave that includes more than a few conversation pieces

J. Michael Moore (who happens to be 6-foot-4) filled his vibrant, 225-square-foot home with furniture and kickknacks that he likes to look at.

Moore avoided using a monochromatic paint scheme and went with color blocking -- a method that pairs opposites on the color wheel. Although the colors are bold, color blocking helps tie all his stuff together so his space doesn't feel cluttered or overwhelming.

A loft bed and moveable furniture helps Moore maximize his square footage and lets him rearrange the space to serve many purposes.



This story was originally published on HouseLogic.

More on HouseLogic:
How to Avoid Foundation Problems
Organize Your Garage for Under $50
Small Bathroom Design Tips

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
See celebrity real estate.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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]]>efficient livingJ. Michael Mooresmall homesSmallWorks Studiostiny homestiny house movementHouseLogic2013-01-02T12:00:00 00:00Painting Your House: Which Colors Work the Besthttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/28/painting-your-house-which-colors-work-the-best/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/28/painting-your-house-which-colors-work-the-best/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/28/painting-your-house-which-colors-work-the-best/#comments

By Jan Soults Walker

Every home suffers a few negatives, but not every solution requires pricey structural changes. Paint is an often-overlooked, low-cost remodeler's remedy for common complaints with interiors, offering the chameleon-like ability to lighten, warm, enlarge, erase, or attract attention.

"Paint is a powerful tool that can enhance the architectural character and intent of space," says Minneapolis architect Petra Schwartze of TEA2 Architects. "As you choose your paint, think about what the experience in the room should be."

More Schwartze advice:

- Always sample paint colors on a few walls. Don't be shy about painting a few large swaths on walls and trim to consider the effect of natural and artificial lighting. Add samples to opposite sides of a room to judge the paint color from different angles.

- Check the space with the samples in place and watch how the paint color changes at different times of the day.

- Evaluate your reaction to the proposed colors: Does the space feel cozy or is the openness enhanced?

How to Enlarge Space With Color

Painting walls white, cream, pastels, or cool colors (tinged with blue or green) creates the illusion of more space by reflecting light. Paint trim similar to walls (or use white on trim) to ensure a seamless appearance that visually expands space.

White or light colors lift a ceiling; darker shades can have a similar effect if you select a high-gloss paint sheen, which reflects light and enhances space.

Employ a monochromatic scheme to amplify the dimensions of a room. Select furnishings in one color and paint walls and trim to match. Lack of contrast makes a room seem more spacious.

Make walls appear taller by extending wall color onto the ceiling. Create a 6- to 12-inch-wide border of wall color on the entire ceiling perimeter, or wherever walls meet the ceiling.

Vertical and horizontal stripes of alternating color can make a room grand. While vertical stripes enhance room height by drawing the eye upward, horizontal stripes lure your gaze around the perimeter, making walls seem further away. Use similar light colors for low-contrast stripes, and your room will look even larger.

Creating Intimacy

When a space feels cavernous, draw walls inward and make it cozy with warm colors (red-tinged) because darker hues absorb light. Similarly, a dark or warm color overhead (in a flat finish) helps make rooms with high or vaulted ceilings less voluminous.

Give Peace a Chance

The right paint choice can lend tranquility to a bathroom, master suite, or other quiet, personal space. A palette of soft, understated color or muted tones help you instill a calming atmosphere. Some good choices include pale lavenders, light grays or greens, and wispy blues.

Define your assets

Call out notable features in a room with paint. Dress crown mouldings and other trims in white to make them pop against walls with color. Make a fireplace or other feature a focal point by painting it a color that contrasts with walls.

"Using a higher sheen of paint on woodwork, such as baseboards and door or window casings," says Schwartze, "creates a crisp edge and clear transition from the wall to the trim."

Hide flaws

Not everything should stand out in a space. Using a low-contrast palette is a good way to hide unappealing elements or flaws. Conduit, radiators, and other components painted the same color as the wall will seem to disappear.

Selecting low-sheen or flat paint colors also helps hide flaws. Unless walls are smooth, avoid using high-gloss paint because it reflects light and calls attention to an uneven surface.

What's the cost?

As a DIY job, painting a 12-by-12-ft. space costs about $150, including paint, primer, brushes, drop cloths, and other painting tools and supplies. A professionally painted room using high-quality, brand-name paint costs $200-$400.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

Read more on HouseLogic:
A Smart Toilet That Lets You Flush With An App
Choosing the Best Bulbs for Beautiful Light
Is Antibacterial Soap a Friend or Foe to Your Health and Home?

 

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]]>DIYhome improvementhome paint colorshouse paint colorspaint colorspainting your homewhat should you paint homeHouseLogic2012-12-28T10:00:00 00:00A Green Christmas: 3 Ways to Help the Environment This Holiday Seasonhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/18/green-christmas-environmental-holiday-tips/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/18/green-christmas-environmental-holiday-tips/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/18/green-christmas-environmental-holiday-tips/#commentsFiled under: ,

For a Green Christmas, buy a living tree.

By Deirdre Sullivan

The holiday season has a naughty impact on the environment: We accumulate 25 percent more waste this time of year, and much of that can't be recycled. Fortunately, our nice ideas make sure that Christmas is more eco-friendly.

1. Christmas tree alternatives

Although cut trees are more earth-friendly than their fake counterparts (real trees are a renewable resource that can be regrown), not all Christmas tree growers support sustainable practices. Here are some alternative options:

Living trees: Skip the dead tree and rent a live one instead. Companies such as California-based LivingChristmas.com will supply you with a locally grown, potted Christmas tree that gets a new life somewhere else after the holidays.

A 5-foot-tall pine rents for $140; add $55 for delivery and pickup.



If you can't bear to see your living Christmas tree go away, start a brand-new family tradition by buying a live tree and planting it in your yard after the holidays. Just remember to acclimate the tree to the outdoors again before planting.

DIY trees: Ideas such as this light bulb tree from Instructables.com are pine needle-free, plus they repurpose discarded stuff. If you're interested in making your own tree, check out this post that has nine more DIY Christmas trees, all made from old household items.



A living DIY tree project: If you're feeling really ambitious, check out this living Christmas tree that was made out of 600 plants by an landscape architect. This tree is currently on display in Sydney, Australia.



2. Gifts and wrapping

It's easy to get carried away with our holiday shopping, from buying presents to the stuff we use to wrap gifts. This year, cut back on waste and clutter with these ideas that keep stuff out of landfills.

The gift of nothing: Sharing this "one less gift" certificate is a great way to let folks know you have everything you want, and that you're celebrating a stuff-free holiday. To download a copy to share with your loved ones, go to Miss Minimalist.

Alternative gift wrap: Wrapping paper and shopping bags account for 4 million tons of U.S. trash yearly. Much of this waste can't be recycled because the paper quality is too poor, or it was printed using foil and plastic materials.

But you don't have to place naked gifts under the tree. Check out this video on how to wrap gifts with recycled materials, such as scrap paper and fabric.



3. Yuletide cheer

Holiday lighting: Nothing says Christmas like lots of twinkling holiday lighting. Thankfully, there are LED options that use 90% less energy than incandescents; plus, they burn brighter (so they're extra-twinkly).

If you need a nudge to finally ditch your old Christmas lighting decorations, you can compare your energy savings by switching to LEDs with this Christmas lights electricity cost calculator (the savings might inspire you to set up a holiday light show).

An eco-friendly fireplace: We all love a Yule log this time of year, so why not swap out the cordwood or the artificial logs made with petroleum materials for greener options?

CleanFlame is an eco-friendly fireplace log made from old wax cardboard boxes that can't be recycled. The log burns so cleanly that it has a minimal air quality impact when compared to real wood. To learn more, check out this news clip.



Java-Log works with coffee houses to make eco-friendly logs that keep 12 million pounds of coffee grounds out of landfills each year. The logs, made from 100% coffee grounds, emit up to 78% less carbon monoxide and up to 66% less creosote than regular firewood.

Eco-friendly Christmas tunes: What's Christmas without a good carol? Here's an eco-friendly version of "O Christmas Tree" that'll keep your holiday spirits green.



This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
Easy, Budget-Friendly Ceiling Makeovers
Housing for Developmentally Disabled: Think Tiny
Why Gardening is Good for Your Health

More on AOL Real Estate:
Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
Find homes for sale in your area.
Find foreclosures in your area.
Find homes for rent in your area.

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]]>Christmaschristmas environmentally friendlyeco-friendlygreen Christmasgreen ideasHouseLogic2012-12-18T15:55:00 00:00Christmas Storage Tips to Keep Your Holiday Stuff Organizedhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/04/christmas-storage-tips-to-keep-your-holiday-stuff-organized/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/04/christmas-storage-tips-to-keep-your-holiday-stuff-organized/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/12/04/christmas-storage-tips-to-keep-your-holiday-stuff-organized/#commentsFiled under: ,



By Lisa Kaplan Gordon

Take the hassle out of putting away Christmas lights and decorations with these easy storage tips. Bonus: unpacking next year will be a snap!

Tangle-Free Lights

Cardboard organizer: Cut 1-inch slits in the sides of a rectangular piece of cardboard, and wind string Christmas lights around, using the slits to hold the wire. Cut slits in the top and bottom to secure both ends. Shoebox lids are good candidates. Cut off sides, wind lights, and store in the box.

Garden hose reel: To keep long strings of lights organized, thread them onto a garden hose reel, and crank.

Wrapping paper roll: Don't toss but recycle those used wrapping paper rolls. Wind lights around the roll, and store extra bulbs in a plastic bag placed inside the tube.

Wire clothes hangers: Up-cycle those extra wire clothes hangers by wrapping lights around them. Turn up each end so the lights don't slip off. Then hang them in a storage closet, or place them into a storage bin.

Tension rods: To keep lights from tangling in plastic bins, wrap lights around your arm, slip the rolled lights over tension rods, and then fit rods into the bins.

Ornament Organizers

Ornament storage boxes: Buy these ornament storage boxes once, and you've solved your ornament storage problem for years. They come in cardboard, plastic and nylon; small (18 ornaments) or large (some hold 80); with fixed or adjustable dividers ($25-$40). Go luxe with Frontgate's telescoping ornament bag that pops open to display four removable ornament trays, then collapses for easy storage.

Recycle gift boxes: Give clothing gift boxes a second life as ornament storage. Reuse the tissue paper to wrap each ornament. Fruit gift boxes often have dividers that are perfect for ornaments.

Stocking stuffers: Put your Christmas stockings to use all year by storing your most precious and oddly shaped ornaments inside them.

Keep Holiday Paper Under Wraps

Garment bags: Clothes bags are great ways to store all your giftwrapping paper and tools. Wrapping paper rolls will stand up straight. You can thread spools of ribbon on a pants hanger, which you'll hook onto the closet rod. Place tape, scissors, and bows in plastic bags, and store in the bottom of the garment bag.

Spice racks: Install spice racks on the back of a closet or tall cabinet door to keep ribbon and rolls snug. Elfa lets you design your own system here.

This story originally was published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
The Moving Target That is 2012 Taxes
'Gangnam Style' Christmas Light Shows Popping Up All Over
How to Make Bird Suet to Feed Winter Birds

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]]>ChristmasChristmas storagehome storagehome storage ideashome storage tipsstoring Christmas lightsstoring Christmas ornamentsstoring Christmas stuffstoring holiday decorationsHouseLogic2012-12-04T15:25:00 00:00Best Places to Hide Christmas Presents in Your Homehttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/27/christmas-presents-best-places-hide-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/27/christmas-presents-best-places-hide-home/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/27/christmas-presents-best-places-hide-home/#commentsFiled under: ,



By Courtney Craig

Whether you've got a nosy spouse or a curious kid, you need a good hiding place to squirrel away those gifts until you find time to get them wrapped and under the tree. Here are some ideas we came up with:

Borrow a Friend's House

Swap storage spaces with a trusted friend or neighbor, and you won't spoil any surprises. This is particularly useful if you're buying someone a big present, like a bicycle or a car. You might talk a neighbor into letting you borrow space in their garage until Christmas morning.

Pop the Trunk

This won't work if you have an SUV or hatchback, but if you've got a car with a trunk that's closed off from the backseat, it's a primo place to hide gifts. Small children will never get in there.

Take Stock of Kitchen Pots

Got a huge stock pot? Unless you're planning to make a giant vat of soup anytime soon, the stock pot can hold a load of small gifts. Chances are your family will never think to look there.

Make Use of Your Underwear Drawer

Small presents can easily fit there. Your spouse probably won't hesitate to look there, but your kids might stop short of rifling through your skivvies. (We hope.)

Crack the Crawl Space

If you don't mind a little dirt and some creepy-crawlies, the crawl space can hold some sizable presents. Don't store anything there for too long, though, unless your crawl space is insulated. Moisture and temperature changes could damage items. Plastic toys are OK to keep outside; electronics should be stored inside.

Rent a Storage Space

If you've got a ton of presents to hide, you'll need to look outside your house. Some storage units offer one-month-minimum specials for as low as $25. Check the storage units in your area for deals.

Go for the Cleaning Supply Closet

Worst-case scenario: Your kids might find presents there, but they'd also find the cleaning supplies, which means they might actually clean something. Now that would be a Christmas miracle.

This article originally appeared on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
What Not to Get the Chef on Your Christmas List
Zinc Countertops: Pros and Cons
Hillary Clinton Confesses She's a Home Improvement Junkie



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]]>Christmas presentsHide Christmas presents in homehome hiding places for Christmas presentshome storageHouseLogic2012-11-27T17:00:00 00:00Thanksgiving Energy-Saving Tips: How to Use Less When You're Doing a Lothttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/20/thanksgiving-energy-saving-tips/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/20/thanksgiving-energy-saving-tips/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/20/thanksgiving-energy-saving-tips/#commentsFiled under: ,

By Courtney Craig

Wasting energy on Thanksgiving? Don't be a turkey. Follow these tips to make sure you're not using more energy than you need.

A Couple of Days Before Thanksgiving

1. Install a dimmer switch for the dining room chandelier. Every time you dim a bulb's brightness by 10 percent, you'll double the bulb's lifespan. Most CFLs don't work with dimmers, but you can create mood lighting with incandescents and LEDs. The dimmer switch will cost you about $10.

2. Plan side dishes that can cook simultaneously with the turkey. If you cook dishes at the same temperature at the same time, you'll reduce the amount of time the oven has to be running -- it's easier for the cook and saves energy, too.

When You Start Cooking

3. Lower your house thermostat a few degrees. The oven will keep the house warm. You also can turn on your ceiling fan so it pulls air up, distributing heat throughout the room.

4. Use ceramic or glass pans -- you can turn down the oven's temperature by up to 25 degrees and get the same results. That's because these materials retain heat so well, they'll continue cooking food even after being removed from the oven.

5. Use your oven's convection feature. When heated air is circulated around the food, it reduces the required temperature and cooking time. You'll cut your energy use by about 20 percent.

6. Cook in the microwave whenever possible. Ditto slow cookers. Microwaves get the job done quickly, and although slow cookers take much longer, they still use less energy than the oven. Resist the urge to peek inside your slow cooker: Each time you remove the lid, it releases heat and can add about 25 minutes of cooking time to your dish.

7. Use lids on pots to retain heat. The food you're cooking on the stovetop will heat up faster when you use lids.

When It's Cleanup Time

8. Scrape plates instead of rinsing with hot water. Unless food is really caked on there, your dishwasher should get the dishes clean without a pre-rinse. Compost your non-meat food waste. Check out these other Thanksgiving cleanup tips.

9. Use your dishwasher. It saves energy and water, so only hand-wash things that aren't dishwasher-safe. Wait until you've got a full load before starting the dishwasher. Be sure to stop the appliance before the heated dry cycle; just open the door and let your dishes air-dry.

This story was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
How to Get Rid of Stuff and Declutter Your Life
Have You Told Your Home 'Thank You?'
Pet Projects That Repurpose Unwanted Stuff

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]]>energy efficiencysaving energyThanksgivingThanksgiving energyThanksgiving save energyHouseLogic2012-11-20T09:00:00 00:00Political Yard Signs: When Your HOA Can Tell You to Take Them Downhttp://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/05/political-yard-signs-hoa-rules/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/05/political-yard-signs-hoa-rules/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/05/political-yard-signs-hoa-rules/#commentsFiled under: ,,,

HOAs and political yard signs



By Dona DeZube

Ah, November! The month when Americans put up political yard signs hoping to sway their neighbors' votes -- until the community association tells them to get those signs out of the yards.

If you're one of the more than 60 million Americans -- about 1 in 5 U.S. residents -- who live in a homeowners association, condominium community, cooperative or other planned community, you might not have the right to use your yard to proclaim your political views to passersby.

The homeowners associations that limit or even ban political signs aren't trying to restrict your First Amendment rights. They just think it's more important to have a tidy-looking street than to know which candidates the neighbors prefer.

My neighbors down the street, who have nine yard signs, would clearly disagree with any limits. Their front yard features three signs from each of three candidates.

State law also comes into play in this issue. Some states prohibit community associations from restricting political signs. Others say HOAs have to allow signs, but can restrict them (for example, saying you can put up a sign 45 days before and seven days after an election and it can't be bigger than 2 feet by 2 feet), says Frank Rathburn, spokesperson for the Community Associations Institute.

In states without rules on political signs, homeowners associations can do what they want without breaking state laws, but there might be local laws they must follow, Rathburn says.

I think the reasonable restriction route is the way to go. I wouldn't like it if my yard-sign-loving neighbors put up three of those billboard-size signs for a bunch of candidates and then left the signs up for months. I especially wouldn't like it if I were trying to sell my home.

I'm sympathetic to those who disagree with me, though. So if you want to fight to keep your lawn sign without restriction, try these tips:

1. Read your association's governing documents to see what they say about signs.

2. If the HOA rules say you can't have a sign, check your state law by doing a Google search using "political signs [state name]" or "rules for yard signs [state name]." Your state may prohibit the community association from messing with your sign.

3. If there's no state protection, check to see if your city, county or other local jurisdiction has laws about yard signs. The First Amendment Center follows recent cases on yard signs, so you can check there, too.

4. If the HOA rules prohibit yard signs and there aren't any state or local laws protecting your sign, take it down for now. You've agreed to live in the association and follow its rules, even rules you don't like. Then, try these next tips to change the rules.

5. Go to a board meeting and ask the board to allow political signs on a limited basis next year. Resist the urge to call the board "First Amendment haters."

6. If the board refuses your request, shore up your friends and supporters and run for the board on a First Amendment slate. You can work to change the rules when you're in charge.

7. Willing to kiss a big bunch of cash goodbye? Hire an attorney to file suit to make the community association change the rule. If you have no cash to spare, talk to a free speech advocacy group such as your local ACLU.

8. Write your state legislator to suggest passage of a yard sign protection law. Given that they're the recipients of all the yard sign glory, you might find an ally for your cause.

Oh, and once you get to put up signs, don't forget to recycle them.

This article was originally published on HouseLogic.

See more on HouseLogic:
Is Your Refrigerator Ready for Thanksgiving Leftovers?
7 Ways to Repurpose Old Electronics
How to Clean Up After Thanksgiving in Half the Time

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]]>barack obama signselection 2012HOAHOA political yard signsHOA rulesHOA rules political signsmitt romney signspolitical signspolitical yard signsHouseLogic2012-11-05T13:06:00 00:00'Superstorm' Hurricane Sandy Power Outages: Should You Buy a Standby Generator for Your Home?http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/10/29/hurricane-sandy-power-outages-should-buy-generator/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/10/29/hurricane-sandy-power-outages-should-buy-generator/http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/10/29/hurricane-sandy-power-outages-should-buy-generator/#commentsFiled under: ,,

As Hurricane Sandy brings its howling winds and pelting rain ashore on the East Coast, estimates show that as many as 10 million people could lose power -- and remain in the dark for a week or more. It's the second time in as many years that a hurricane has targeted the heavily populated Northeast corridor of the U.S. -- usually much more rare than that -- and with these events seeming to become more common, it might be the perfect time to consider buying a standby generator for your home. We asked HouseLogic for some advice.

By Wendy Paris

The next time a storm knocks out your power-again-you may find yourself thinking about a standby generator. Unlike a portable backup generator, which you store in the garage or shed and roll out during an emergency, a standby generator is permanently installed on a gravel bed or concrete pad next to your house. If the power goes out, an electronic switch automatically signals the unit to turn on, keeping essential household systems and appliances running even if you're miles away.

Such systems, which start at about $5,000 and go as high as $40,000, recoup 47.5 percent of their cost at resale, according to Remodeling magazine's 2010-11 "Cost vs. Value Report." Always-on protection doesn't come cheap. Here's how to decide if it's right for you.

When Permanent Standby Makes Sense

As with any insurance policy, when you buy a backup generator there's no telling when, or even if, you'll need it. Whether it's worth the investment depends on your personal situation, your tolerance for interruptions, and your budget.

If you live in an area with frequent, prolonged outages, rely on electrically powered medical equipment, or work at home and need to stay connected, a backup generator can protect you from a disruption you may not be able to afford.

If you live where hurricanes strike, a generator safeguards family members, especially children and the elderly, against the risks of sweltering heat. If you own a second home, particularly in areas where temperatures regularly dip below freezing, it can protect your property when you're not around. "A lot of weekenders buy standby generators," says dealer Chris Sauer, owner of G&G Lawn and Power in Stone Ridge, N.Y. "It's a lot more expensive to have your pipes freeze and flood your house than it is to buy a generator."

If you decide the benefits are worth the cost, here's how to proceed.

Assess Your Power Needs

Generators are sized according to wattage produced: The more watts, the bigger the unit -- and the higher the price tag.

Wattage usage varies from house to house. Your generator supplier or local electrician can do a wattage assessment, or you can ballpark it yourself with an online calculator. You can also get general guidelines from national dealers such as Colorado Standby or Electric Generators Direct.

The next step is deciding what you want your generator to power. At minimum, you can run an "emergency panel" of necessities -- say, a central air conditioning unit, the refrigerator, and a handful of lights and outlets. "A 17-kilowatt unit is the standard size for an emergency panel, because it has enough power for a central AC unit," says Will Ferrigno, owner of Assurance Power in Boca Raton, Fla. If you live in a northern climate with no AC and gas heat, your emergency panel could be as small as 7 kilowatts, enough to power some lights, the fridge and gas furnace.

At the opposite end of the spectrum is a generator with enough wattage to power your whole house. A 3,000-square-foot house with two central air conditioners, an electric range, and a whirlpool tub might require as much as 25 to 30 kilowatts.

A third, newer option is a "load-management system," a generator that can power everything in your house, just not all at once. Such a system could run that same 3,000-square-foot house with about 20 kilowatts, cutting power to non-essential circuits as necessary.

Consult the Right Professionals

Most of the time, your generator supplier will also provide setup service. That's a good option, because you know the installer will be familiar with your equipment. A less expensive way to go -- and your only option if you've purchased the generator online -- is to hire a plumber to connect the unit to its fuel source (usually propane or natural gas, though some run on diesel) and an electrician to hook it into your house's power supply. Both should be licensed and certified for the brand of equipment you're installing and familiar with local codes that govern such things as how close the generator can sit to the house, how big the fuel storage tank can be, and whether you need a permit.

Calculate Your Costs

Prices vary by brand and location (just try buying one in South Florida after a hurricane), but an emergency panel unit of 7 kilowatts starts at around $4,500 before installation, while a 17-kilowatt unit runs from about $6,000 uninstalled to $12,000 fully set up. A 25- to 30-kilowatt model costs from about $13,000 uninstalled to between $20,000 and $30,000 with installation. The national average for an installed system, according to the "Cost Vs. Value Report," is $14,760.

The type of fuel also affects cost. You may need to plumb for a gas line, for instance, or purchase and install a propane tank. Diesel units come with their own tanks, but diesel fuel is expensive and needs regular treatment so that it doesn't clog the engine over time. (Even if your generator never kicks in, it will burn about 10 gallons of fuel a year in weekly self-tests.) "Talk to your plumber and your utility company before you buy a generator to make sure you can get an affordable power source," says Brad Corgill, a technical sales rep at Colorado Standby in Colorado Springs.

Once you're set up, you won't have to worry about being stuck in the dark or freezing cold again. What's more, a standby generator can add to your home's value, which should make you feel doubly warm all over.

This story was originally published on HouseLogic.

See also:
'Superstorm' Hurricane Sandy Power Outages: Should You Buy a Standby Generator for Your Home?
Hurricane Sandy Mortgage Relief: Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA Offer Disaster Aid to Storm Victims
Hurricane Sandy Photos: The Storm's Wrath, and Aftermath

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Find out how to calculate mortgage payments.
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]]>backup generatorhurricane sandyhurricane sandy power outagespower generatorstandby generatorssuperstorm sandyHouseLogic2012-10-29T11:00:00 00:00