Today’s tile trends extend so far beyond their traditional use as a staple of bathroom design that you may not recognize them. While once the most attractive and innovative tiles had to be imported, contemporary handcrafted tile and stone products for home design are now being made right here in the United States. Homeowners and interior designers alike are always seeking distinctive visual touches to make each home special. Here are five ways tile design can enhance a room. Elevate small Continue Reading ...

If your new home is among the one million or so being built in the U.S. this year, congratulations! You’ll have the chance to customize it to your dream home preferences. One feature that should be at the top of your priority list is the best possible fire protection for yourself and your loved ones: home fire sprinklers. While choosing household systems may not be as fun as picking paint colors and carpeting, it’s even more important. And asking for fire sprinklers could literally save Continue Reading ...

The homebuying process is exciting, but can also seem fraught with added costs, like a home inspection, title insurance, and closing costs. And if you can’t afford a full 20 percent down payment on a conventional home loan, then you will most likely pay for private mortgage insurance (MI). Some people consider private MI yet another added cost, but it helps creditworthy middle-income homebuyers qualify for home financing sooner with a low down payment. Is it really an added cost if it saves Continue Reading ...

Add a bathroom to an 'impossible' space to catch home buyers' attention When it comes to real estate, you've probably heard kitchens and bathrooms typically sell houses. While you may not have enough money for a kitchen remodel, adding a bathroom can be a more affordable way to enhance your property and catch home buyers' attention. By adding another bathroom to your home, you immediately increase your chances of the property getting noticed. Technology makes it simple for buyers to search Continue Reading ...

Craving a more beautiful bathroom? Resolve to make this the year that you finally create the bathroom of your dreams, check our bathroom installation ideas. Fortunately, you don't need a major remodel. Consider these ideas for simple changes with big impact. With a little planning and effort, you'll add to your home's value and functionality, while getting the “Pinterest-worthy” bathroom you know will make you smile every day. Project 1: Fresh, eco-friendly style Transitional style is Continue Reading ...

Americans have lots to celebrate this holiday season, with unemployment rates at an all-time low and consumer confidence on the rise. According to The Annual Retail Sales Forecast for the Holiday Season from Deloitte, retailers have their sights on sales of more than $1.1 trillion. We all get caught up in the spirit of giving, yet the most wonderful time of year is also one of the most stressful financially. Holiday spending doesn't have to break the bank. A little planning can let you enjoy Continue Reading ...

If you've been in the process of selling or buying a home this past year or even considering it, you know it's been a seller's market for the most part. Inventory of homes available for sale has been low, creating more demand than the market can supply. Couple that with low-interest rates, which make it a great time for prospective buyers to get more bang for their mortgage dollar, and you've got a marketplace in which buyers have been competing for nearly every listing. The forecast for 2019 Continue Reading ...

Smart Tips to Prepare the Kitchen and Dining Room for Holiday Entertaining As the year winds down, social calendars fill up with merriment-filled gatherings among friends and family. When hosting a seasonal gathering at home, being proactive can help streamline tasks and reduce stress. From whipping up a feast to toasting in the New Year, here are five ideas for getting the heart of the home - the kitchen and dining spaces - ready for holiday entertaining. Simplify measurements Chopped Continue Reading ...