As we noted last year, a trend began in 2016 which sought to bring the outdoors inside. This trend utilized large windows and expansive patio doors which opened to an outdoor space. The outdoor living trend has only intensified in 2017. Spacious entertaining and cool areas without using a lot of energy are the primary driving forces which are promoting this trend. Top Remodeling Project Adding a fully functional outdoor living space is one of the most requested remodeling projects reported by contractors across the US. Qualified Remodeler Magazine reports, in its April 2017 issue, that 84.4% of remodeling contractors … Read more »

Everyone has one of “those” neighbors … you know, the ones whose gorgeous, lush emerald green lawn looks as if it popped right out of the pages of Better Homes and Gardens. Obviously they pay big bucks to achieve that level of lawn care, right? Great news – not necessarily! With some savvy and the right resources, you can also develop a lawn that is the envy of your entire neighborhood. It takes a little time, but you CAN do it! The important point to note is that nurturing your lawn into a thing of beauty is not just a … Read more »

You spend your days making “Home, Sweet Homes” for your customers! We applaud you for that, and on this Valentine’s Day 2017, we wish you and yours a delightful day as well. Happy Valentine’s Day, to the strains of Vivaldi’s Spring! (Click on the red words, “Happy Valentine’s Day!” to see the video)  

If your home is equipped with central air, you probably don’t need to read this post. But if you have mini-splits or window AC units, there are necessary steps you must take to ensure your AC doesn’t make you sick! Did you know that the environment inside mini-splits and window units are a haven for black mold? Ew! From allergies to just plain gross, we do NOT want mold growing there! Why Mold Grows: As an air conditioner unit works, both moisture and dust are pulled into it. Couple those ingredients with a dark interior, and you have a perfect … Read more »

Happy Memorial Day and thank you to all who have served, for freedom to be bought with a price. We are forever thankful.

Summer is nearly here! And with the warmer weather, many homeowners are considering including a deck in their new home construction. In addition, existing homeowners are thinking of adding or updating an existing deck. Whether you build or remodel, you must stay abreast of building code standards, and they are changing! Check out the newest standards at the Journal of Light Construction: JLC Treated Wood Deck Framing  

In this 21st Century world, being digital and online is a must for growing your business. Yet many of us, who did not grow up “plugged in,” find it difficult to know where to start in generating a presence online. But from customer service to lead generation, the internet is really one of your best resources for building your reputation, name-recognition and ultimately business. Let’s take a look at how you can get started … with LinkedIn, YouTube and Flickr Social Media. SOCIAL MEDIA: As with Facebook and Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Flickr can provide additional exposure to your business. … Read more »