203(k) Budget Allowances – I could use some extra money!
[hr] Mr Smith, I was wondering some things about the construction bid on our house in Natchez. If the contractor has given me an allowance for an item, and I don’t use the entire allowance, can the access amount be rolled to another item? For example: an allowance of $250 for a vent hood, but I […]
Investor 203(k) Introduced in the House
This week, Congressman Howard “Buck” McKeon (R-CA 25) and Congressman Scott Peters (D- CA 52) introduced H.R. 1997, the Communities Achieving Sustainability Act (CASA). CASA Authorizes the Housing Urban Development (HUD) to make 203k loans to small investors for a 2-year period. This legislation will help revitalize communities (especially those hurt most by the recent […]
Appraisal Institute Releases Helpful Addendum, Green Home Clarification
A few weeks ago I shared that “Greening the MLS” can help disclose the addition of energy efficient elements in residential construction and how that might affect the liabilities of the MLS system. Last week the Appraisal Institute introduced the Residential Green & Energy Efficiency Addendum, Version 2.0. Laura Stukel, an efficiency “insider,” is developing the Real Estate Transaction […]
How Secure Is Your Folding Stairway Pulldown
Normally, you’d find a string hanging from the cover of the stairway. For outside locations that might present a bit of a security issue. A quick pad lock will help secure the hatch. Done…unless there was NO string to pull!
Recirculating Range Hoods — As Effective As Recirculating Toilets
Go to your kitchen, look above your stove or cooktop and open the cabinet door. If you don’t see a round pipe installed inside the cabinet, you most likely have a recirculating vent hood. They’re cheap, easy to install and you may as well be sitting at a smokey camp fire waiting for the wind […]