Searching For Your Dream Home

First things first when looking for your dream home. Make a list of all the things you're looking for. With today's computers and search engines on the Internet it makes home shopping by keywords very simple.

Most real estate websites have boxes you can check off, if you're looking for a three-bedroom house with two bathrooms and a swimming pool. You simply check these items off, select the area you would like to search for homes and and you now have a list of homes to look at.

Some of these homes have virtual tours on the Internet, which allows you to go through most of the home before you actually visit the house. Modern technology has made searching for your dream home a virtual reality.

You can now look through the list and select the most appealing homes before you start driving around. Don't let the pictures of these homes deceive you on the Internet or MLS. Some of the descriptions of these homes can also be very deceptive.

When looking for your dream home, used every possible means available to you. This would include your real estate professionals, newspapers, magazines, search engines, internet websites, and don't forget about driving around your favorite neighborhoods. This is actually how we found one of the homes we bought.

Our real estate salesman gave us a list of homes to look at, while we were driving around, we spotted a home that caught our attention and we pulled in the driveway. To our amazement, the real estate saleswoman who listed the home lived a couple of houses down the street and was right there asking if we wanted to see the inside of the house.

Your family, friends, neighbors and people you work with, can also help you with your homebuying quest. You would be surprised at how helpful some of these people can be. I knew someone who found a home they really liked, knocked on the door and told the homeowners, they would be very interested if their home was ever put on the market. Within a few weeks, he was buying the home.

I'm not telling you to knock on everyone's door whose not selling their house, but you never know how or when you're going to run into the house of your dreams.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buying checklist to take some of the frustration out of home shopping

Don't buy a house without visiting, one of the best websites for home inspections. This website has thousands of pictures that deal with home inspection problems. If you're buying a house, check out this section on home inspection cover ups

DIY Methods to Save on Utilities

If your utility bill is out of control, you need to consider ways to tame the beast. There are plenty of do it yourself [DIY] ways to save on utilities.

DIY Methods to Save on Utilities

Utility costs for heating, cooling and electricity are near record highs. Worse, they are expected to rise fairly dramatically over the next few years. Since you will live in a residence for the rest of your life, making small changes to save money on utilities will save you tens of thousands of dollars, if not more. Here are some areas to check out and fix to start saving some bucks.

Leaks and drafts from the interior of your home to the exterior can easily double your utility bill. There are a couple of obvious areas to check out such as windows, frames around doors, fireplaces and entrances to attics. Less obvious spots to check include gaps around electric outlets, mail slots, pipes, spaces around baseboards and gaps around air conditioners where the interface with the exterior. If you find gaps, caulking can often take care of the problem or you can pursue a weekend DIY repair.

Insulation in a home can be a real problem when it comes to utilities. Since I hope to avoid getting sued, let me just suggest builders tend to use the minimum amount and grade of insulation required by regulations when building homes. If you live in a tract home, this may be all the more true.

If you seal the areas where you have drafts, but the heater or air conditioner is still turning on every few minutes, insulation may be a problem. Inspecting insulation isnt the easiest or most comfortable task. The easiest method is to first climb into the attic and see if there is any exposed insulation. Unfortunately, the grade of insulation in the ceiling may not match the grade in the walls.

To check the walls, the best bet is to find a small are where you might have a hole. Closets are typical spots. If you have kids, look for areas where a doorknob has punched through a wall. If none of these are available, you can remove a small surface area in a closet. Once done, determine if the entire area is filled with insulation as well as the R grade of your insulation. Compare it to recommended grades in your area. You can then patch the area and nobody will be the wiser. If all else fails, get a thermal inspection for a professional.

Most people are not going to need to blow out their insulation. Doing so will help, but sealing a home will go a long way to cutting your utility costs. With this in mind, give your home the once over.

Rick Chapo is with SolarCompanies.com, a directory of solar energy companies. Visit us to read more articles on solar power and home energy audit checklist.

Exterior Wood Beams

Building a Room Addition - First Develop a Room Addition Plan

Building a Room Addition can be one of the best investments you can make in your home. Building a room addition, such as a family room addition, or bonus room can add wonderful new living space to your home. However, prior to starting a room addition, a homeowner should first formulate a room addition plan. There are several key factors that should be considered prior to breaking ground.

Developing a room addition plan should include both interior and exterior considerations. With many room addition projects a homeowner can draw up the basic room addition plans, including the floor layout and the physical exterior shape and size of the addition. However, if the roof lines and/or foundation footprints on the existing home or the new room addition are complex, an architect may be required. An architect may also be required to ensure that the finished room addition aesthetically melds well into the existing home. This is a key factor for resale value. If a room addition appears as an afterthought to the home it will be aesthetically unappealing to the neighborhood and to someday prospective home buyers.

When planning a room addition, the permit / inspection process will typically include an overall building permit, as well as electric, plumbing, and insulation permits. In order to complete the building permit process you will need drawings or sketches of the room addition. Besides overall sketches of the room addition with overall dimensions, the drawings will also need to include cross-sectional views showing the framing type and physical sizes of floor joists, roof rafters, and wall framing construction. You will also need a bill of materials and a cost estimate for the construction. The building inspector will use this information to determine if the construction will meet all construction and safety codes. The building inspector also uses the Bill of Material and cost information to assess the amount of the permit cost.

During the building of the room addition, inspections should be completed after the:

Foundation is poured

Rough framing completed

Rough Electric completed

Rough Plumbing completed

Insulation completed

Final Inspection / Occupancy Permit (Electric/Plumbing are complete)

Whether hiring a general contractor or planning to be a do it yourself carpenter and general contractor a budget and time table should be developed prior to starting the room. Not only is it necessary in the permitting process, it will help in identifying long lead items and provide the information necessary for financing the project if required. In addition, if acting as your own general contractor creating the time table will help assist you in determining need dates for sub contractors.

With room addition building plans and permits secured, as well as a solid Bill of materials and a timetable completed, a homeowner can begin the room addition project with a high likelihood of a smooth and successful home building project.

For more help on building a room addition, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's Room Addition Bid sheet. The Room Addition Bid Sheet will help ensure that your room addition project goes smoothly and is completed on time and budget.

Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. For more home improvement information visit http://www.homeadditionplus.com and http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com

Stud Spacing And Wall Framing

Cruise & Travel to Alaska

State of Alaska is located in the northwestern part of North America and belongs to the United States of America. Even if some people could thinking that there is not too much to see or to do, they are wrong and are not enough informed! This rugged land is a main travel destination in the USA and especially cruises to Alaska are very popular among tourists. People who are looking for cruise deals want to enjoy the natural wonders that this state has to offer: majestic glaciers, high peaks covered by snow even in the middle of the summer, wide forests, and a huge number of wild animal species like bears (grizzly bears, black bears and brown bears), whales, reindeer and many others.

This northern state is visited by tourists wanting to enjoy different cruise deals, most of them starting from Seattle or Vancouver, but also hotels in Alaska are crowded by passionate anglers and hunters, especially during summer. There are an impressive big number of lakes and streams where anglers feel like in paradise and where catching big size fish is something common. In Alaska the main prize is the salmon (Alaska is home to five species of salmon!), but other fish species like rainbow trout, Arctic char, barn door halibut offer also great satisfactions. Due to the huge number of anglers that overrun this state during fishing period, everywhere in Alaska can be found many hotels and fishing lodges and almost all are occupied up to the last room!

Beside fishing fans, to the state of Alaska travel also many hunters seeking to find the trophy of their life! And they have right, because Alaska has many wild animal species, from which bears represent a big part. Tourists who like to observe wildlife in its natural habitat are also faithful customers of hotels and lodges in Alaska. They can enjoy different outdoor activities and tours, from which very popular is whale watching. To see this immense mammals swimming in their natural habitat is a unique life experience. To fulfill the increasing demand of this kind of tours, in Juneau are a few company that offer combined cruises which include whale watching and visits to different glaciers, like Mendenhall Glacier for example.

No matter which is the main purpose of tourists who travel to Alaska, to enjoy an exquisite luxury cruise, fishing, hunting, sightseeing, hiking or other, all deals to Alaska are great, accommodation offered by hotels and fishing lodges is comfortable, and memories obtained during vacations spent in this state are unique and durable, making many of people who have visited state of Alaska once to come back year after year...

More information about in Alaska can be found on Alaska Travel or Alaska Cruise. This article belongs to Victor Tuszing.

Poor Window Fill In Repairs

Things to Consider Before the Installation of an Electric Shower

Everyone wants to have an attractive and luxurious shower in their bathroom. Electric showers have better impressions among other types of showers and are widely used because of their excellent performance. Compared to other showers, electric showers are easy to install, economical, and convenient to use. Basic requirements when installing electric showers include little plumbing from the cold water supply and appropriate electrical connection. However, few precautionary measures should be taken in order to provide a safe and economical output.

For households with only cold water pipe line available, electric shower is the only option. It is also recommended for areas with low pressure water supply. Electric showers have built-in pumps designed to maintain water pressure for the shower and sprayed through the shower head.

On the other hand, for households with both hot and cold water pipe lines, mixer showers are suitable and the best option. It is designed to mix hot and cold water to regulate the water temperature when used. Lastly, on areas provided with low pressure water supply, but with installed heater for a shower, power showers are the best option.

During installation, the shower head should be installed in an area far from the base tray to avoid contact. Installation of electric shower should also be in accordance with the water supply that should have a minimum running pressure of 1.0 bar at a flow rate of 8 liters/minute. Water supplied to electric showers should be cold and must have a dedicated line to be used exclusive for the shower to maintain water temperature.

Showers should not be installed in sections with freezing conditions, but should be placed on tiled surfaces. Before completing the water supply connection with electric shower, pipes should be cleaned and checked so that waste can be washed out and avoid obstructions for the water to flow. One isolated valve must also be fitted in the main water supply. This valve will regulate the opening and closing of the main water supply which is necessary when performing maintenance of the shower.

For electric showers, compatible cable that can carry proper voltage to the device should be chosen. A separate electric connection should be used from the unit to the shower through a double pole switch. The switch will be used to turn the heating process of water on and off. It is also suitable for turning electricity off in emergency situations. This should be installed in a secured place, away from any person taking shower to prevent any accidents brought by electrical shock. For added safety, wirings of electric shower must be connected to a switch without any plug or socket.

Making the required electrical connection for the shower may sound simple, but professional electricians are required to perform the task. All these precautions should be considered before installing electric showers. By considering these things, installing electric showers is made easy and safe. Let us all remember that one can only get the most out of it when it is installed properly and effectively.

If you are looking for more information then feel free to visit electric showers and electric power showers.

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Bathroom Renovation Luxury Cabinets Rediscover Luxury in Your Bathroom

An article in BusinessWeek.com confirmed a drastic shift occurring in the home renovation market. The trend in renovation is shifting towards bathroom remodels. More and more people want style, beauty and luxury in their bathrooms. Control your environment. Get tips on how to better organize your home.

Is there a need for a cabinet?

Most people do need a cabinet as they find it comfortable to store towels, personal products and other bathroom essentials. It is also easy to access and makes life easier. However, few families do not prefer to store items in cabinets. Depending on the budget and the need a bathroom renovation luxury cabinets can be considered.

Express your style

If you are installing high end fixtures along with a luxury tub and shower wall during bathroom renovation, luxury cabinets should also be included in the plan. This would increase the ambience of your bathroom and match the levels of other fixtures in your bathroom. There are several types and styles of luxury cabinets that are available in the market. You will be amazed at the styles and colors of luxury cabinet that are available in the market these days. Take your pick and see how it fits your bathroom.

Budget Planning

Create a budget and design the bathroom renovation plans based on your budget. Have an eye for product costs and spend wisely on what you really want.

Plan your space

A luxury cabinet as a part of bathroom renovation needs lots of planning. You have to follow these simple steps to select the cabinet based on your bathroom specifications.

1.Measurement: Measure the dimensions of your bathroom perfectly.

2.Layout: Sketch your bathroom layout, including where your cabinets, tub, sinks and other fixtures will be and chart out the dimensions in terms of length, width and depth.

3.Design and revise your bathroom renovation plan until you are satisfied.

Selection

Based on the dimension of your bathroom, select the luxury cabinet as well countertops and sinks to make an impressive difference in the appearance of the bathroom. The cabinets should fit into the overall statement the homeowner is trying to make in the room. Check out for colors and patterns and try to match the color scheme of your bathroom. Choose from a wide range of products and designs to make your bathroom a heaven at home.

If you're looking for more information about bathroom renovation or are looking for bathroom remodeling ideas come visit me at my bathroom remodeling blog.

You will find lots of information about bathroom tile design, shower and tub installation, bathroom remodeling tools, bathroom renovation ideas, bathroom remodeling pictures and even specific information about the topic of this article: Bathroom Renovation Luxury Cabinets.

Insulation Damage

Shop Online For Your Decorative Mirror

The installation of a decorative mirror on the interior of your home can bring about a new atmosphere if you want to do away with the lifeless look that lingers in your dwelling like a fog.

Because there can be hundreds of a variety of decorative mirrors in furniture shops in your area, finding and selecting the right one might require time unless you are able to find alternative ways to simplify and speed up the process. Thanks to technology and the online shops, your dilemma is solved.

Online shopping for a decorative mirror for you home can bring about certain benefits and advantages than by going from one furniture shop to another on foot. For starters, you can shop for that mirror without leaving the portals of your home or even while you are at work in your office. What you just need is a credit card to purchase the item. You can have it delivered right to your doorstep. Simple, isn't it?

When looking for a decorative mirror, you need not spend much of your time looking for the designs that will fit your home. Many of these items are put on display and showcased in numerous furniture shops on the net. You can easily view one design to another without leaving where you are. Also, through this, you can easily make comparisons in terms of price and quality.

Quality should always be the prime consideration when shopping for a decorative mirror on the net. In fact, there are many of these which are discounted already and are on showcase on the internet. However, the procurement of one basing only the price would not necessarily mean a flourishing makeover for your home.

Window shopping can also work when you plan to purchase a decorative mirror online. You need to have an idea on the design, shape, size and the theme of the mirror you find on the net. Then, visualize it as part of your home's interior. Does it fit well? Does it bring out the best of your home? Consider the interior design of your home as well as the other furniture you have. Make sure they blend in with your new mirror. You might as well determine and plan out the theme of your home or what you want it to have. Make it as a reference for your purchase. Decorative mirrors can be sold in various designs and styles. Some can be contemporary and modern. Others can be traditional or are country-specific designed. Some decorative mirrors, even they sport a typical theme, may also suit well with any modern or antique abode.

You have to remember that planning is vital to the success of your decorative mirror purchase. Take time for your assessment. Check the current look of your home and picture how you would want it to look after the project. By this, you can already have an idea on what and how your decorative mirror looks like. Then, check it online to see if shops have what you have in mind.

Eliza Maledevic Ayson writes for Jump2top.com - SEO Company

Acoustic Ceiling Water Damage

Add Value to Your Home - Refurbish Your Kitchen Or Bathroom

TV's Phil Spencer has recently been urging homeowners to "do everything they can" to improve the saleability of their properties saying that improvements to kitchens and bathrooms are among the best ways of selling houses. A recent Lloyds TSB Tickbox.net and Opinion Matters survey found that 73% of people in Greater London claim that installing a new kitchen is the best way of adding value to a property. The Lloyds TSB poll showed that a high percentage of people thought that an energy efficient boiler was the environmentally friendly home improvement that added most value to a property.

In a Telegraph feature earlier in 2008, '50 ways to improve your home', upgrading your existing kitchen was at number 19 whilst 'banishing broken bathrooms' came in at number 20.

There are many things that can be done to improve the saleability of your home and increase its value where kitchens and bathrooms are concerned. Here are just a few ideas:

1. Fit a spacious walk in shower - far more convenient and practical than an over-bath shower.
2. Install under floor heating in a bathroom - this will remove the need for unsightly radiators thus saving space and creating a far more seamless design. What's more, under floor heating is far healthier as the heat is more evenly distributed throughout the room rather than staying at head height, and it also keeps nasty things like mould and damp at bay.
3. Update your kitchen so that it includes built in modern conveniences - this will really make an impact on potential buyers because it's a job they won't have to do themselves.
4. A modern eco-friendly condensing boiler will help tip the scales in your favour when selling a property because potential buyers will be able to enjoy the benefits of reduced fuel bills and increased energy efficiency.
5. Consider the installation of a solar hot water heating system which will offer considerable savings on fuel bills for your potential buyers.
6. If space allows, add a downstairs cloakroom. Modern WCs and basins come in the most compact of sizes and it is relatively straightforward to liberate some space and transform it into a very convenient feature.
7. If your bathroom does not need a complete overhaul but could do with a little 'something' then go for some new taps. Choosing attractive taps from a high quality range will miraculously transform the look of any bathroom, and it should be a relatively low cost exercise in terms of your potential return.

If you are looking to improve the saleability of your property then a good place to start is by talking to your plumber who will be able to give you sound advice on your heating system options and energy efficiency for starters. A good plumber will work with reputable kitchen fitters and other professional craftsmen to provide a complete service and overall they will be able to provide you with space-saving and energy efficient solutions.

Ivor Bates is the director of Bates Heating and Plumbing Limited, a plumbing and heating company established in 2001 and covering all areas of London, Docklands and Essex. Bates Heating is CORGI registered. They can install, replace or refurbish bathrooms, kitchens and various types of heating system including energy efficient condensing boilers, under floor and solar heating. For more information visit http://www.batesheating.co.uk

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Ideas For Choosing Mirrors For the Bathroom & Bedroom

There are some people who can't live there life without mirror. For them it is part of their accessories which they can bring it inside their bag or hang it up in their house. Most of the decorative mirrors can be seen in rooms or living rooms. For those who haven't yet chosen any of the best mirrors for design scheme purposes, better broaden up your search first.

Before buying decorative mirrors, you have to consider the purpose of it whether it is for utility use or to generate a delusion of space. You also have to plan where to hang the mirror. Whether it will be place in the bathroom, in your living room, family room or to your own bedroom. Upon choosing the decorative mirrors consider matching up to another piece in your home such as the color of your bathroom tiles or any of your furniture covers. You will only find it hard to find a match if the mirror you have chosen comes from a different producer, while if you choose those ready made decorative mirrors it will surely be persistent.

If you prefer to put the decorative mirror in your room, think of using wall mounted mirrors or free standing if you have a small room. It is most likely to put the mirror diagonally from a window because as you open up the room you will have the mirror image of the outdoors. For larger rooms you can place floor mirrors. When considering putting a mirror you should consider the style of your room and be consistent with your own style. Your budget depends upon the availability of your cash on hand. This is very important because mirrors come from different prices from affordable to expensive. So once you have found the uniqueness of the perfect mirror you are looking for, it is now easy for you to spend or have the budget. You must take a survey first before buying so you will not regret after.

It is a great help for you if you live in a home where shopping malls are accessible, because from time to time you can go for window shopping and you can choose plenty of options of Decorative Mirror. Or with the use of the high end equipments nowadays powered by the modern technology, you can go surfing an online shop at your home while sitting in the sofa. World Wide Web offers you everything as you scroll it down. All you need to do is to use those famous search engines and simply encode the facts you are looking for, just be specific so you get access easily what you are looking for. Or if you wish to broaden it up then input other facts about the one you are looking for.

Eliza Maledevic Ayson writes for Jump2top.com - SEO Company

Floor Baseboard Drywall Problems

Home Automation Tips

Warning: Remember that electricity is very dangerous and will kill you in a heartbeat. Electricity can also start fires very easily, and fires can also kill you. The best way to get your home wired is by a certified professional who knows your local codes.

We have now a plan and we need to look at the design piece of our new Home Automation. The first step is to do an assessment by answering several questions:

• Wiring and Networking:
• What is the house status? (being built, being remodeled, old construction, new construction)


• The status will affect greatly the type of wiring we will select. We had a complete home remodeling and all the walls were open. We had the opportunity to install 1" orange cable tubing in every room, this allow pulling any type of cables within minutes. We have Cat6 cable, Fiber Optics, TV and audio/video cables.


• Existing construction may not offer the same flexibility and going wireless will become the solution.


• In old construction the quality of the power line is not high quality and will definitively impact transmission such as X10. Ask a certified electrical professional to help evaluating your existing wiring to make sure it's still meets 'code'. Don't be afraid to spend money on your electrical wiring, it will pay back later.


• For this project we will choose an existing old construction with up to local code wiring. The network will be wireless as well as security and monitoring. Z-Wave being too expensive, Home Automation will be based on Insteon and/or UPB equipment.
• Lighting
• Planning for this section is quite easy and interesting. We need to select for each room the type of switches we need and as we will implement security, monitoring and multimedia distribution we will use a control unit to manage all functions.
• Control Units - we recommend 2 different brands Cortexa Technology and HAI. The Cortexa is more IP network based while HAI is more versatile on the security part. For this project I would use HAI which offer two main lines: Lumina and Omni. The Lumina is more limited on the security side but it connects to existing security systems. The Omni offers a complete solution from lighting to security and fire system.The Omni IIe Pro will be my choice as it has the most features and won't limit our future ideas.
• Based on this control unit selection, the technology we will use UPB for lighting control. The cheaper X10 won't work very well in an old electrical wiring environment.
• Now let look at the need for each room to replace existing switches.
• Bedrooms - one switch and one or 2 side lamps
  The switch can be dimmer or non-dimmer, side lamps will need lamp modules dimmer or non-dimmer as well.
• Dining and Living rooms - one switch per room and may be some floor and table lamps with the same dimming status as for bedrooms.
• Play room - two high wattage switches and may be several floor and table lamps.
• Family room - three high wattage dimmer switches, several floor and table lamps and why not adding a nice LCD control panel to create lighting scenes.
• ...etc for each rooms including bathrooms
• Outdoor lights - replace existing switches with non dimmer high wattage ones plus two or three non-dimmers modules for Xmas lights as well.


• We have a list of material to purchase - but don't buy anything yet!
• Heating and cooling
• To plan this section we will base it on a 3 zones heating and cooling system. One for the main floor, one for the second floor and one for the basement.
• First we need to verify with a certified professional that the current heating cooling system can support multi-zoning and that the house and the furnace don't need too much modification.
• For this project all is needed is 6 motorized dampers, a 4 zone control panel for the furnace and 3 RC-90B thermostat as the furnace is a single stage. We can upgrade to RC-2000 with humidity control.
• Thermostats will need to be connected to the furnace control panel and to the HIA control unit. Some wiring to add here.
• The RC-90 and RC-2000 accept external temperature sensors. These sensors installed in bedroom will allow to adapt the floor temperature to the lowest or most important room - Master bedroom or baby's room for example - additional wiring will be required to these rooms.

Pierre Merlin owner of High Tech and More, LLC - We provide great deals on HomeAutomation including Home Security

Shower Seat Framing Side

Esquinas Rainforest Lodge - A Testament to the Potential of Ecotourism

If you've ever wanted, if only for a few days, to experience the rainforest and never see another person, you may want to visit Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. Esquinas boasts 10 miles of trails and they're the only ones in the neighborhood.

Located about 40 minutes from the small town of Golfito, in southern Costa Rica, Esquinas Rainforest Lodge is perfect for those looking for a secluded nature experience. 200 different species of birds have been logged in the area surrounding the lodge. The natural landscaping makes this place a haven for a myriad of wildlife.

The property borders one of Costa Rica's newest and least studied national parks, Piedras Blancas. Many think Piedras Blancas has even greater diversity than its more famous predecessor, Corcovado National Park, located on the tip of the Osa Peninsula.

I've spent weeks walking in Corcovado and I can honestly say that my time spent walking the trails behind Esquinas Rainforest Lodge were every bit as beautiful. And what's nice about these trails is that when you're done, you return to a wonderful lodge instead of a musty ranger station.

The lodge is big and open. The meals are incredible and all the rooms have ceiling fans and private bathrooms.

Esquinas is owned by Michael and Susanna Schnitzler. Michael is one of the most incredible and admirable people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. In 1991, Michael got concerned about the amount of logging and hunting that was going on and decided to get involved. Being a well-known concert violinist from Vienna, he started Rainforest Of The Austrians and started soliciting funds from his fellow countrymen. To date, Rainforest Of The Austrians has raised 3.5 million dollars, purchased 8,000 acres (15 square miles) of land and donated it to the national park system.

The ultimate goal is to prove that a small, ecologically safe nature lodge, accommodating no more than 40 guests, can generate enough income to raise the living standard of a whole community of 70 families. Esquinas is the largest employer in La Gamba, a small community close to the lodge, offering at least 15 permanent jobs. Except for management and office personnel, all employees at the lodge are from the local town. The lodge has assumed an active role in the financing and implementation of community projects.

I really appreciate the depth at which Esquinas has gotten involved both socially and environmentally. They are a true testament to the good that can result from a lot of effort and involvement.

Mitch Popa is an independent video producer working on promoting Costa Rica's Ecotourism Industry. Please visit our website at http://www.ecotourismtravelguides.com or contact me personally at redwoodmitch@yahoo.com.

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Luck is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity

You must be ready when an opportunity comes before you, opportunity often comes in the form of work and that's why most people seem to miss it. Most people are too busy looking for the easy path through life. They seem to lay around waiting for the opportunity of a lifetime,... to simply fall at your feet.

Why would you want to spend so much time complaining about something, or someone? Other people can help you along the way, if you let them, but it's up to you, ultimately, to become the most you can possibly be. I have had plenty of opportunities in my life and have took advantage of some, while letting most of them pass by.

I'm no different than most people but now seem to be aware of my surrounding opportunities, all the time.

How many times do you wish for an opportunity to come along? It's probably one that you missed already, at some point during your life. Are you going to be prepared for the next opportunity when it comes along? These opportunities seem to repeat themselves throughout our lives and if we're not in the right state of mind, we often overlook them and let them pass by, time and time again.

You need to prepare yourself in advance for the next opportunity. If you are prepared and have your eyes open, you will be able to see the next opportunity that comes your way. Preparation will increase your chances for success and good fortune always.

Opportunities come in all shapes and sizes. Be on the lookout, when you're walking to the grocery store, taking a break at work, reading the newspaper, talking to your neighbor, walking down the street or even while you are sitting alone, letting your mind wander away. Your chances for success could come while your in your quiet places, or relaxing. Be prepared.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Mold Under Floor Tile

The History And Health Benefits Of Hot Tubs

For many years, hot tubs and home spas were the exclusive luxuries of the wealthy. They were expensive to buy, expensive to operate and not very reliable. With the onset of better manufacturing and better materials, and lower prices, however, the popularity of hot tubs and home spas began to soar.

Spas Throughout History

History gives us many examples of spas being used as integral parts of life for many civilizations. The Romans are perhaps the most famous for their bathhouses, which became centers of social life and a common daily activity for the elite classes. Other cultures made use of spa-like hot baths as well, including the ancient peoples of China and Japan.

What did these civilizations know that others didnt? Setting aside technological differences, some of the earliest spa enthusiasts appreciated the health benefits of using hot water to relax the body, open the pores of the skin, and generally promote better health. Cleanliness was considered healthful and a sign of prosperity after all, you had to be pretty well off to afford the bath facilities themselves and to have the leisure time to partake of their benefits.

Hot Tub Hydrotherapy

As medical science has advanced, there has been an increased awareness of the benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy. Many medical conditions, injuries and other health problems can be eased or improved with regular hydrotherapy treatments.

For example, people with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, paralysis and other conditions that involve deteriorating range of motion benefit from time spent in a hot tub. The warm water helps ease aches and pains, while loosening joints and making them easier to move and keep mobile.

Joint problems, chronic back pain and other painful conditions resulting from injuries are also helped with regular hot tub hydrotherapy. Those seeking stress relief, general relaxation, and quiet opportunities for conversation commonly experience significant hot tub benefits as well.

Modern Spa and Hot Tub Hydrotherapy

Modern technology, materials and production processes make it possible to design and build home spas and hot tubs with highly specialized hydrotherapy features. These features are typically based on a combination of seating position, jet position and jet function. Lets look at each of these aspects in turn.

Seating Position Traditional hot tub seating was bench-style, typically in a round shape and at a uniform depth so that everyone sat at the same level in the tub. This made it challenging for people of different heights to fully benefit from hot tub therapy.

With the development of molded fiberglass spa shells came the development of different shapes and sizes of seats. Manufacturers began to include lounge seats, where the bather reclines in the water, as well as seats to accommodate bathers of different heights. Some also included deeper seats, designed to fully immerse the bather and allow placement of jets in specific positions for specific benefits.

Jet Position Moldable shell manufacturing made it possible for the first time to place jets in nearly any position within the tub. Manufacturers began experimenting with placing jets in places where they would focus on specific areas of the body, such as the back, neck, shoulders, arms and legs.

The earliest jets were single-action nozzles with limited ability to adjust where they were aimed or the intensity of the jet action. This made it difficult to use them in positions where they would affect more tender areas of the body, such as wrists, forearms, ankles, feet and knees. As manufacturers developed more advanced jets with a wider variety of functionality, though, the technology of hydrotherapy advanced significantly.

Jet Function Modern hot tubs and spas can be customized with a surprising variety of jets that range from multi-purpose to highly specialized. Buyers often are able to select exactly which jets to install in specific locations within their hot tub or home spa.

The most common types of jets available today include:

Swirl jets water swirls in a circular pattern, with a massaging action that covers a wide area

Whirlpool jets a large, round jet that concentrates pressure in a specific area

Mini jets smaller than standard jets, they are often grouped together in clusters, especially in massage and therapy seats

Pillow jets combines massaging action for the neck with a pillow designed to let the bather rest their head without going under water

Shoulder jets positioned above the water line to focus attention of specific parts of the shoulder

Moving massage jets this oval-shaped jet moves back and forth in a sweeping motion to provide pulsating therapy

The benefits of different jet types have grown substantially with the development of independent seating control. In older spas and hot tubs, one set of controls ran all of the therapy jets, but independent seating control allows each bather to control the strength and intensity of therapy in their own individual seat.

Hydrotherapy for Fitness

The latest technology in hydrotherapy involves using jetted tubs for fitness purposes. This new generation of home spas is elongated in shape and allows the bather to choose traditional spas functions or switch over to functions that allow for a vigorous workout. They are commonly referred to as swim spas.

A swim spa has powerful jets that set up a strong resistance current that allows the user to swim as if in a full sized lap pool. The elongated shape allows even the tallest people to stretch out into a full-length stroke and the center depth is such that even a full arm extension will not bump into the bottom of the spa.

Adjustable current jets make it possible to adjust workout intensity depending on the users fitness level, and increase intensity over time as the level of fitness improves.

Summary

Spas and hot tubs have been around in one form or another for centuries, but only in the last few decades have technology, materials and manufacturing improved to the point where a home spa is affordable enough and reliable enough to be within reach of most people.

Hot tub hydrotherapy is one of the most popular and effective ways to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, injuries, or simply promote relaxation and stress relief. Once you have experienced the benefits of a home spa or hot tub, you will wonder how you ever lived without one!

Julie Ann-Amos is a freelance writer for Hot Tubs 'N Home Spas.com, providing consumer information onportable hot tubs and home spas. She has reviewed dozens ofhot tubs and home spas and contributed articles on choosinghot tub spa enclosures and gazebos.

Copyright 2005 Hot-Tubs-N-Home-Spas.com

Permission is granted to publish this article on your site only if the author's byline is included and all 3 links are hyperlinked.

Bathtub And Sink Rough Plumbing

What to Look For in Bathroom Ceramic Tiles

What really impresses about bathroom ceramic tiles is their singularity of purpose- that of creating a sublime space soaked in style and sophistication. The endless selection of designs, finishes and patterns ensures that your bathroom remains more than just an edifice of brick and stone. Even the most discerning homeowner is sure to find it hard to resist their bewitching appeal.

A patch of brilliantly colored tiles near the sink, tub surround or countertop is sure to put an end to the quotidian drabness and add spunk to the surroundings. It just takes a few single tiles in between bathroom field tiles to create a colossal impact on onlookers.

All you need is a dazzling and delightful ceramic tile flooring pattern to infuse freshness into all things alive and inanimate in the bathroom.

Make Sure You Are Bang On Target

The dizzying array of colors, finishes, shapes and sizes to choose from can queer the pitch quite a bit. But that really does not mean that you deal with the onerous task of ceramic tile selection for the bathroom with passive resignation.

Here are a few tips that will ensure that you never hit a false note:

• If you are looking for a no-fuss modern look, then bright, vivid colors juxtaposed with plain backgrounds are sure to steal the show. The use of intricate designs imparts tremendous visual depth.
• If the quixotic quotient of a style-centric Victorian bathroom sends you into a tizzy, install floral ceramic tiles in soft, subtle shades like blue, green or pink. They are sure to envelope the space in a cloak of exotic mystery. Take this sophistication to a whole new level with wooden floors and a handpainted ceramic sink.
• The colors that you choose must compliment the theme and character of the bathroom. Bright, effusive colors give the country theme a fillip, while warm shades like yellow and brown enhance the cozy ambience. Bright shades like red and black must make inroads only into relatively large spaces, while whites and beiges give an illusion of space.

So without any further ado, let the hypnotic power of charismatic ceramic tiles rule the roost in your bathroom.

Here's exactly how you can generate 100's or even 1000's of positively brilliant Bathroom Remodeling Ideas ... FAST ! And you could easily increase your home's value by several $1000s fast with these 25 street-smart tips for Dirt Cheap Home Improvement.

Home Door Books
Home Garage Books

Slow Market Home Pricing Advice

Homes are going to be sold in good markets and bad. When times are good, people often forget that bad times will be coming eventually. During good times, people often get caught up in the hype of the real estate boom. During tough times, houses will be sold eventually, or taken off the market and sold later. If you need to sell the home as soon as possible, for financial or other reasons, you will have to adjust your price with the current market and don't get greedy.

This is the hardest thing for most people to do, lower the price of their home in order to sell it in a slow real estate market. Don't get caught up in the value of your home, six months or even a year ago. Last year's prices are not going to be this year's prices and you need to get that through your thick skull. If the average homes in your neighborhood are selling for $250,000 and you have a swimming pool or done some upgrades, maybe a room addition. Your home is going to be worth more than the average selling price.

Most real estate professionals will price your home according to the length of time you have to sell it. If you're in a hurry to sell, they don't have time to test the market. The price of your home would need to be competitive or lower than homes selling in the area. Whether homes are selling fast in a good market for selling slow in a bad market, if you have time, you can ask a little bit more for your home. If the market hasn't reached the bottom, waiting could actually hurt you, because the prices of the homes in the area would still be dropping.

Listen to your real estate professionals advice when pricing your home. That's what you're hiring them for, they are in the real estate business. Your neighbors, relatives, friends and people you work with, will probably be guessing if you asked for their opinion on pricing your house.

Your house is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Finding that person is the key to selling your home, finding that person as soon as possible could give you the illusion that you sold your home to cheap. Don't worry about it, your final objective is to sell the house.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buyers guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If you really think your home is safe, check out these pictures about home water damage.

Stucco Paint Water Damage

Four Tips to Help You Finance Your Bathroom Remodel

Financing any large remodeling project can be a pain, but when it comes to your bathroom, it can be an outright nightmare. But that doesn't have to be the case for you. When you learn about these four ways to help finance your bathroom remodeling project, you'll not only get to keep the bathroom vanity cabinets and vessel sinks that you've had your eye on, but you will also be able to add other stylish features that you never dreamed you could afford. While not all of these options will work for everyone, there's a perfect fit for you.

#1 Save your pennies

While many people might consider this to be the hardest way to finance your bathroom vanity cabinets, it's also a good way to prioritize the things that you want to add to your bathroom. By taking the time to put away money each month for six months, you will be able to buy your bathroom remodeling pieces outright instead of paying them off for years to come. Try putting as much as you can away into a savings or money market account that will give you a high interest rate. This will accumulate as you're saving, giving you even more money at the end of your planned savings time. Start by looking at how much money you have at the current time, deciding how much you will need, and then start saving!

#2 Finance your project

For those with good credit, you may be able to say 'yes' to vessel bathroom sinks immediately by opening up a store line of credit at your local bathroom supply store. Look for deals that include no interest for a specific period of time and then be sure to pay off the full amount within that time period. This will help you get everything you need at the same time, but allow you some grace time to pay it back off. The trick with getting credit is that you only want to get as much as you need so that you're not paying off this debt for the rest of your natural life.

#3 Make a trade

If you know someone in the bathroom remodeling business, you might be able to trade skills for a bathroom remodel. For example, if you're a carpenter, you might be able to help a bathroom contractor out with another project, free of charge in exchange for work on your own project. You might also have friends that can help you out and then you can pay them pack later or make other arrangements so that you can install your vessel bathroom sinks or vanity cabinets. You might also find the supplies you need at a swap meet or flea market.

#4 Shop around

You'd be surprised how many vessel sinks and bathroom vanity cabinets you can find for a steal on the internet. By shopping around, you may be able to find the right fixtures and accessories for your bathroom and then hire on a friend to help you install them - saving you labor costs. You might also try to install your own fixtures and other bathroom projects to save yourself even more money and give you a sense of accomplishment.

Financing your bathroom remodeling project isn't about taking out a large loan and hoping that you don't need more. Budgeting and financing should be something that takes creativity and some discipline. You need to make money available or use your money more wisely to finance your project - plain and simple. Where you cut those corners is up to you.

For all the things you need to make your bathroom shine, go to http://www.discountbathroomvanities.com

Dave Robert is a VP at Discount Bathroom Vanities Publishing, and an avid fixer-upper who's been restoring old houses for more than twenty years. Readers can tap into Dave's knowledge about home remodeling, and kitchen and bathroom design, at: http://www.DiscountBathroomVanities.com

Treated Plywood Column Framing

Budget Your Total Bathroom Remodel

Like any responsible homeowner or renter, you plan to budget for your upcoming bathroom remodeling project. But finding the dough to accessorize like a celebrity may prove more than challenging. Whether you're looking to install high-tech toilets, new faucets and showerheads or simply to afford new rugs, follow these penny-pinching tips; you'll be on your way to a new total bathroom makeover without cutting back on your family's food or selling your assets.

Plan in Advance

No matter what size remodeling project you plan to undertake, you can never plan too far in advance. The larger the project, the more long term you should think. But before you either sell you're car or begin purchasing new bathroom accessories or fixtures, write down your plan. Create a mock blueprint of your ideal bathroom, complete with what fixtures you need or want to replace, as well as the aspects you can repurpose and refurbish for free. Now, conduct simple market research online and estimate the average price for the new features you wish to include in your makeover project. For standard durable pieces, look for trusted brands such as Kohler, Price Pfister and American Standard.

A good rule to follow should be based upon how long you intend to stay in your home. If you're simply looking at a quick fix and sell home, then opt for simple improvements. If your family will be staying for decades, you may want to consider comfort and ease first, and then think of what will increase the value of the home over time.

Additional costs are accrued when you pay for the labor. So no matter how big or small you plan to remodel, also factor in how much - or how little - the cost of labor will be.

Evaluate the Spending

With your estimated expenses in hand, examine your current weekly and monthly spending habits. Are there any areas where you can afford to trim down? A few dollars here and there spent on gourmet coffee, fast food restaurants and even those extra cents tacked onto gasoline prices paid with debit or credit cards can really add up quickly. Budget-friendly ideas include carpooling, consolidating all errands into one day to eliminate expensive fuel costs as well as opting for stay-at-home dinners which tend to be cheaper and healthier.

Stick to the Plan

If you've decided to trade in your Chinese take-out Tuesdays and quick trips to the post office for a home cooked meal and a walk to the local stores, then stick to it. And it will be tough to stick to this plan, but be prepared. It's easy to find excuses (it's too cold outside to walk); writing down specific tasks on your calendar will help keep you focused on your goal: remodeling your new bathroom. Also, seeing tasks written in permanent ink will help guilt-trip you into behaving, especially if you've slipped once or twice.

Small Budget Makeovers

With the rocky economy and unstable job market, many families simply cannot afford a total bathroom makeover as they've dreamed. However, a few small and inexpensive changes can transform your bathroom. Often, just a simple accent wall in a dark, rich paint can change the feel of a bathroom instantly-while only a fraction of the cost of totally repainting your entire bathroom. Check out local yard sales and online listings for freebies and discount giveaways; a wicker basket or antique bedside table can double as an artistic and decorative toilet paper holder.

Total Redesign

Transforming your entire bathroom will require a hefty budget, especially if you're reinstalling valves, bath tubs and cabinetry (which will most likely require the assistance of a professional). Splurge on the luxury model toilets with heated seats, heated tile floors to keep your toes toasty or the automated sink faucets that eliminate wasted water. Over time, you'll see more money in your pocket, since these luxury upgrades will most likely replace your frequent trips to day spas.

Jim Richardson is Vice President of Your Home Supply (YHS), the definitive website for home improvement tools, and gardening supplies. Your Home Supply offers a wide range of bathroom accessories to help customers with common household repairs, as well as decorative accessories for the home. Visit them now at http://www.YourHomeSupply.com

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Home Organization Books

Planning Your Bathroom Remodel Budget - Home Improvement Ideas

As a bathroom remodeling contractor, I get calls from people, that have no idea what they want or how much anything is going to cost. Here's some simple tips that can be very helpful when planning a bathroom remodel budget.

Bathroom Remodeling Investment

In 2008, the average mid-range bathroom cost around $16,000 and you could recoup around $12,000 of your original investment upon the sale of your home. According to a popular remodeling magazine, larger bathrooms using expensive fixtures, tile, bathtubs, woodworking, toilets and showers had an average of $52,000. Upon the sale of a home, you could recoup around $36,000 of your original investment.

Finding out How Much Things Cost

My first suggestion, would be to visit your local home improvement center, lumber yard or plumbing supply warehouse. Larger stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, seemed to provide you with value pricing but don't have a large selection. While doing some research on the Internet I noticed that some of their pricing is outrageously, outrageous. Some plumbing supply warehouses can provide value but beware others won't.

Create a List of Bathroom Remodeling Parts

You can get a good idea of your bathroom remodel costs for your budget by making a list of bathroom parts with pricing and then adding them up for a grand total. If you're a total bathroom remodel budget is $15,000 and you have a $6,000 bathtub with $4000 worth of tile, you could have a budget problem.

Figuring out the Labor

You will have to contact a contractor to get an actual cost for the labor. Sometimes you can double the cost of your bathroom remodeling parts to get a rough idea. If you have a list or a couple of lists and a few pictures of some sample bathrooms, this will make the contractor's job easier and often they can give you a labor price within a few days.

Give Yourself a Cushion

I would suggest leaving yourself a small financial cushion for any additional remodeling items. For example, you could see a different toilet, or instead of painting the walls, you now choose to wallpaper, you could incur additional expenses that you haven't planned for. If you know exactly what you want and stick to the original bathroom remodeling plan, you shouldn't need the cushion.

Financial problems often transfer into construction problems, so spend some time figuring out, how much money you want to spend on the bathroom remodel and try not to go overboard on the budget. I hate to see homeowners struggling with home improvement loan payments. Try to create a bathroom remodeling budget that is realistic and will not create a financial burden upon you or your family.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buyers guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your looking for some more bathroom remodeling or home building ideas.

Fungus On Roof Shingles

Concrete Methods - Adding Reinforcement

One of the most important factors to consider when pouring, forming and placing concrete is what kind reinforcement is needed, if any is needed at all. Recent technologies in concrete mix designs have made many more available and cost effective solutions to your reinforcement needs. Some times all that is needed is an engineered mix for simple floors, patios, driveways, porches and slabs. However, larger structures that support greater weights require more reinforcement and are required by general building codes.

Depending on the structure you are making will be what determines the type of reinforcement needed. Concrete walls require the use of steel rebar. Usually the sticks of rebar are tied together based on an engineered plan. Building codes, structural design and an engineer usually determine how much is needed and how it should be placed in the concrete. The larger the area to support usually means the higher amount of rebar as well as the grade (diameter of rebar or rebar size). Smaller flatwork pieces like residential flat work usually only require an engineered bag mix of concrete, or simple wire mesh. Wire mesh concrete reinforcement is often used when placing a boiler heat system in a driveway for example. This wire mesh must be set just right so as not to puncture the tubes when pouring concrete and to eliminate protruding wire from the concrete slab.

Thicker walls and floors will almost always require mats of rebar (rebar sticks tied together vertically and horizontally in specific lengths and spaced properly based on what it supports). This reinforcement is usually tied to footings that have been poured with sticks of rebar placed into and protruding upward or leaning into the floor to connect the mats together. Reinforcement can be bought pre-bent or bent on site based on need. The reinforcement is usually throughout the entire structure including columns. The higher up and the more to support the more reinforcement and concrete is needed, both in quantity and grade size. Improper placement of reinforcement, lack of reinforcement, incorrect type of reinforcement and inadequate sizing causes weakness, structural damage and protrusion from the structure. Most buildings require an a building inspector to pass off whether or not the proper amount, size, type and placement is correct. Hiring a contractor who is qualified to do it right is very important.

Once the size of the reinforcement is determined how much of it is needed to support the structure you are building? These requirements usually come in the form of an engineered plan stating the bare minimum needed. If you are not sure, hire an engineer to review your needs. They usually state the type that is needed as well. Structures that are exposed to water elements usually require that they be epoxy coated. This epoxy coating is usually a thin layer of epoxy that the rebar is coated with to protect the bar or mats from rusting and give it longevity.

Because reinforcement can get expensive, modern technology is trying to focus on ways to place reinforcement directly into concrete mixes, by the use of engineering mix designs. Engineers are researching the use of graphite in the mix to bond it together and provide reinforcement as well as other chemicals. Progress is advancing at a rapid pace and many different mix types are available. Some builders and engineers require these mixes on jobs in addition to steel reinforcement. They usually require testing of the strength of the mix by pouring core samples to test at a later date to make sure it is not defective. If the strength test is not met to the required standard, it must be removed and replaced until it passes. If reinforcement is not inspected by a building inspector prior to pouring concrete, the building inspector can require you to remove the entire structure and start all over, or bring an imaging device to the job site and ex-ray the structure to see if it was properly placed. Usually great costs are associated with both of these. Concrete is expensive to do over, so it is important to follow building codes and requirements when installing rebar to make sure it is done right the first time.

Concrete reinforcement is an important step when considering the longevity of a structure. In my experience I haven't met a single person or company who wanted to waste their money on buildings or structures that aren't going to last. Too little reinforcement can cause severe structural failure and damage that can be expensive and dangerous. Which, is not worth it in the long run.

Fireplace And Hearth Framing

Buying Bathroom Vanities Online - What You Need to Know

Well, there are several things you need to consider first before purchasing your bathroom vanity. First and foremost, you must know the dimensions of your bathroom in order to pick a vanity that will fit. You can get the measurements of your bath by simply using measuring tape, or you can hire a contractor to get the measurements for you. Either way, you need to know the exact measurements of the space available to you in order to pick the right bathroom vanity. Once you have this information, you will need to determine your budget and how much you are willing to pay for a bath vanity. You can get a high-quality bath vanity for anywhere between $1,000 and $10,000 dollars, so it's essential to know what you are willing to spend before you begin shopping.

Once you have the measurements and budget sorted out, you can begin to look at vanities online. If the rest of your bathroom is complete, you might want to consider picking a vanity that matches the rest of your bath. If not, you can select any vanity you want, and then match the rest of your bathroom with that vanity. Generally, there are many finishes available for vanities, including wenge, teak, white, black, grey oak, walnut, and so forth. There are also many different types of vanities, including traditional style vanities, modern European style vanities, Victorian style vanities, and more.

How do you go about finding the vanity you want online. Well, for starters you need to find a website that allows you to search on these criteria. For instance, if you want a white vanity for under $1,500 that is only 22 inches in depth, it would be hard to find that vanity by doing a general "Bathroom Vanity" search on Google. You need to be able to specify the exact vanity you want and do a search on those specifications.

One such place to do a search is TotalBath You can go to the bathroom vanities page and filter the results as you wish by setting the price, color, and dimensions of the vanity you want.

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House Window Books

Finding Homes Using the Internet - Home Shopping

You can simply type the words real estate or homebuying into any search engine on the World Wide Web and you will come up with hundreds, maybe even thousands of websites that are extremely helpful and full of great information. Like the one you're on right now.

Finding homes with the internet, combined with a skilled real estate salesperson, provides you with the most effective technology available today. Most websites start out, having you select a state you would like to search in and then, select a city, with your price range.

By answering their questions, this narrows the search down to all of the homes available in the area. The internet has made home shopping very simple. Considering what you had to go through in the 1970s. You found a realtor or by looking in the yellow pages, sometimes you found a good realtor and if you are lucky, maybe you would find you a good home.

Most of the time, the first homes you would look at, were owned by the real estate professional you were working with.

There are however a couple of problems with using the internet to find your dream home. Some of the verbage used and photographs taken can create a wonderful illusion of a tropical paradise but the reality, it's a regular home in a decent neighborhood.

Some of these photos are taken by skilled photographers who take advantage of every angle and tend to give an illusion of grander. When you actually start driving around and looking at these homes, only then will you get a reality check, of what the home actually looks like. You'll get used to it.

After you've looked at a few of your future dream homes, you will get a better idea of what I'm talking about with these wonderful pictures and the extraordinary home descriptions like "Beautiful Three Bedroom House with an Ocean View." When reality it's a two-bedroom house with an extra closet for the third bedroom and the ocean is 45 miles away, but you can see it on a clear day if you actually climb to the top of the largest tree on the property.

Take your time when searching for your dream home and don't let any one push you into making a decision if you're not ready. If you find your real estate professional a little too aggressive or pushy, get out of your contract, if you've signed one and find another, more helpful real estate salesperson to help you with your home purchase.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buyers guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

Find other real estate tips and great advice, from another one of the Internet's best website creators.

Split Stair Balusters

Home Contractor Problems and Solutions

This is one of the biggest problems in business today. You have some work done on your home in good faith that the contractor knows what he is doing. When all is said and done you have a problem that needs to be resolved as soon as possible. I really don't care how long it has been since the work was done. If you have a problem the least that your contractor can do is answer the telephone.

Some companies go out of business and others get to busy to respond to your problem. You will hear the old excuse "That's not my problem" or the ever popular " I didn't do that". I have been in business for over twenty years and had very few problems. Of course I built things to last as long as possible.

Keep in mind that some contractors are a one man operation and they might be on vacation. Some contractors do not answer their phones over the week ends or after business hours. So don't sink the ship to fast.

Do not call the Contractors Licensing Board or the Better Business Bureau unless it has been at least a few working days. I would give it at least a week or so. Oh yeah don't assume that the contractor got your message. Call a few times at the least.

It has always made me mad when I have to fix someone else's problems. I get the call when the other contractors won't respond. I listen to the home owner with regret for being in a business where I am considered a crook. This is one of the reasons why contractors in my business get out of it.

If you have the contractors address and they aren't responding by phone you can always send them a letter by certified mail. Request a return receipt. That's your proof that the company received your letter. Keep a copy for your files.

The good news for a home owner when a contractor will not respond to your calling them is the Department of Consumer Affairs. Most states have a complaint department of some sort that will listen to your complaints. Does this mean it will get resolved? NO there are no guarantees here.

If your state has a licensing board for contractors, this will be your next step.

This will get your contractors attention and there is a great chance they will respond now. If there are enough complaints against the contractor and they do nothing about them the contractors board will take their license away.

If your contractor does not respond after all of this. There is very little you can do about it. Hire someone to fix the problem and look at it as a very important lesson learned.

If your state doesn't have a contractors licensing board contact the Better Business Bureau or your local government for their recommendation. Ask some of your friends if they have had any problems like this and how they handled them.

For some more tips about hiring contractors go to
http://gregvan.com/library/homeowner_checklists.htm

Greg Vanden Berge has been in the home building and remodeling business for over 30 years. With this knowledge he has created a few websites that provide useful information for home owners as well as contractors. His main goal is to educate professionals in the home related businesses, dealing with problems that can easily be avoided with just a little bit of information.

His website http://gregvan.com provides all kinds of answers to remodeling and new house building issues that could create major damage as well as possible damage to your pocket book.

Ceiling Framing At Wall

Mykonos Luxury Hotels - Your Guide to Nightlife

The Greek Island of Mykonos has a reputation as the party capital of Greece, and deservedly so. Because of the immense variety of nightlife available on this lively island, you should rely on the staff at the Mykonos luxury hotels to be your guide through this maze of revelry.

Curelessly wandering the streets in hope of finding the right mix of food, music, and clientele will leave you exhausted and wondering what the fuss is all about. First, you should think about what it is you are seeking in your night's entertainment and then approach the concierge or other staff of Mykonos luxury hotels for advice. They live on the island and know all the hot spots, as well as the best ways to get to them.

Looking forward to "people watching" during the evening? Be sure to let the staff of the Mykonos luxury hotels know the kind of people you like to watch. There are many clubs and bars on Mykonos that draw certain ages as well as certain sexual preferences. If you would enjoy observing lively young people of both sexes, meeting and mingling, dancing in the streets (and sometimes on top of the bars,) you will be directed to areas of the town that attract them. Many clubs also cater to a gay population and offer entertainment featuring performers in drag. Perhaps you are hoping to observe a slightly more genteel, sophisticated crowd. The staff of Mykonos luxury hotels is your invaluable source for an enjoyable evening out.

Be sure to let the staff of Mykonos luxury hotels know the type of music you enjoy since the mood for many nightspots is influenced by the music they offer. You will find everything from heavy rock, pop, modern and traditional Greek, to classical music offerings throughout the area. The right music is often key to your satisfaction.

If you are looking for a romantic setting, the staff of the Mykonos luxury hotels will probably direct you to an evening that begins with sunset dining in the Little Venice area. As the golden sun pours itself into the Aegean Sea, reflecting off the white walls of the famous Mykonos windmills, you may decide to spend your evening soaking up the romance in your own quiet world, perhaps back in your own luxurious hotel suite.

Home Basement Books
Home Security Books

Installing a 32 Inch Back Door

In some older houses you will find a 30 inch back door. Have you ever tried to move a refrigerator or some large furniture through a 30 inch door? Keep in mind most bedroom doors are 30 inches wide and are in 36 inch hallways. 30 inch doors and bedrooms make it tough to move some furniture in too.

Let's start with the price difference between a 30 inch door and a 32 inch door. The cost difference is usually going to be around $20. If you are building a hundred homes this could become quite an additional expense. So we can understand why the home builder installed a 30 inch door in the back of our home.

He got the extra money in his pocket, you got a headache.

Here's the big problem. If you ever want to install a larger door you will need to replace the structural door framing. Now this is where you could run into a little bit of an expense. Changing the framing for a wider door could become quite costly. It could actually cost over $1000 in some cases.

Now if the homebuilder would have originally installed a 32 inch door in your house it might have ran him as high as an additional $45. How can this be? I will give you the first clue. There is a good chance the homebuilder will not be moving into any of these houses. If for some strange instance he did move into the house, he would learn the same lesson whenever he needed to move a large item into the house.

I'm a contactor and learned this lesson in a long time ago.

If you are building a new home you might even want to consider installing a 36 inch back door. This door will give you plenty of room when it comes to moving large items in or out of your house. The cost difference between a 36 inch door and a 32 inch door is usually around $20 also.

When building a new home most people don't give very much thought about their interior or exterior doors. Here's a simple chart I made to help with some basic door decisions.

Bathroom Doors Should Be 28 Inches Wide Minimum.
Bedroom Doors Should Be 30 Inches Wide Minimum.
Front Doors Should Be At Least 36 Inches Wide
Back Doors and Garage Doors Should Be At Least 32 Inches Wide

If you are a professional football or basketball player don't use these numbers above.

If you have large sliding glass doors or French doors throughout your home and can use them to move large items into the house you can install whatever size doors you choose that are comfortable to walk through.

Give some thought when installing a new door on your next project and keep some of the above tips in mind..

If you are designing a home give some thought to the stairways and hallways in the home as well.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on building and remodeling your homes and Bay Window Ideas

Tile Roof Stucco Damage

Bath Lift Features and Benefits - A Consumers' Guide to Bath Lifts

Bath lifts are specially designed seats that fit into a standard bathtub with no remodeling or drilling necessary. The seat lowers the user into the bath, and then raises them when they are ready to get out. Of course, some bath lifts are better than others. For example, a reclining bath lift is more comfortable - who wants to sit up perfectly straight while taking a relaxing bath?

The dimensions of the seat itself should also be a consideration. The width of the seat is pretty standard within an inch or so (because it must fit into a standard bathtub), but the depth of the seat varies. Would the user prefer a "deeper" seat, or not? Also, different bath lifts have different weight capacities: if the user is 300 lbs. or more, they will probably need one of the more robust bath lifts. Should the bath seat be portable, to make it easier to transport or store? Most of the better bath lifts can be broken down into two or three pieces, making storage or transportation much easier.

The optional features that are offered with bath seats can make all the difference in the world. For example, some bath lifts offer an optional swivel seat which makes getting into and out of the seat much easier. Also, soft seat covers are usually considered optional and would be more comfortable than the hard plastic surface, but would require cleaning more regularly. For those with greater mobility needs, some bath lifts offer chest harnesses or lap harnesses, which can make it much easier for a caretaker to use.

Bath lifts can be large, expensive, fixed installations; but this guide primarily deals with the more affordable types that are mounted to the bathtub by suction cups and are battery-operated. All battery-operated bath lifts are designed to use the charge intelligently. That is, they will not lower the seat into the bath unless the remaining battery charge is sufficient to raise the chair back up. This means the user doesn't have to worry about being stuck in the bathtub because of a dead battery in the bath lift. These types of bath lifts are very dependable, safe, sturdy, and they don't require professional installation. These models are also much more affordable and have become much more popular than fixed installations.

If you are thinking of purchasing a bath lift for yourself or a loved one, you should take all of these factors into consideration. Bath lifts are now as inexpensive as $500, reclining models are as low as $600, and they offer all the same benefits as the heavy installations that cost several thousand dollars.

Sean Lutger is an experienced writer on products offered by the medical industry. Bath lifts are very convenient, safe, and comfortable. Recently, they have become much more affordable because they can now be installed without remodeling or drilling. Learn more by visiting AmeriGlide.

Rough Framing Of Shower Floor

The Bible's Power Over One Child

I mentioned Sean in another one of my articles, the story of a young foster boy that we were taking care of. Sean's father was my ex-wife's uncle, and they were going through some tough times for a while and their three children ended up as wards of the state. We eventually ended up taking the oldest child because he was the hardest one to place and another home. His brother and sister ended up with a family that wanted to adopt them and eventually Sean went to live with them and I believe all three of them were adopted by this family. I don't know this for a fact though.

Sean was a emotionally damaged child. His parents would punish him with some strange and bizarre punishments. They weren't really physical punishments but seemed to leave the emotional scars on him and I often think about where he is and what he is doing.

We watched him for about a year and I learned quite a bit from this young man. He was in the third grade but was still at the first grade level for reading and math. I would spend a couple of hours each night during the week helping him with his schoolwork, I seem to have created some sort of allusion that I would be able to bring him up to the third grade level within a short period of time. Wrong. He must've had learning disabilities and of course I don't think I was that good teacher.

Sean was easy going, polite and extremely obedient. He would do anything to avoid getting in trouble and often blamed others for his mistakes. His punishments must have been more than he could bear before he arrived at our home. I think you're getting the picture about what kind of a child Sean was.

One day I found myself in a dilemma with Sean, I couldn't get him to tell me the truth, even though I knew he was lying. I forget what the problem was but I remember a hollow look in his face. It was almost like he wasn't really there. It was almost like he was just doing time, sitting on the bed, listening to me asking the same question over and over again, "Sean are you lying", but he wasn't even paying attention.

I normally would not punish my children for accidents, and never tolerated lying. I was trying to explain to him that he wasn't going to get in trouble, I just wanted to know the truth. He wasn't budging at all and stuck to his story. I remembered that his mother and father were Catholics and feared the church, almost as much as they loved it.

That's what I came up with my evil plan. I don't know where I come up with these ideas, but every once in a while one pops up in my head and I run with it.

I told Sean that I was going to bring the Holy Bible in, and if he could swear on the Bible that he was telling the truth, I would accept that and this would be the end of our conversation. I couldn't believe my eyes, as he started crying and screaming, frantically and excitedly as a yelled out, I did it, I did it, don't bring the Bible in, I won't do it again.

I couldn't believe that was all it took to get information from him. I have always been a pretty good interrogator and found myself gathering information from those people easily, but this was amazing. His fear of the Holy Bible got me thinking about how powerful this book actually is to some people. I remember when I looked upon this book, pretty much the same as Sean did.

It's just a book, like any other book. It's not made at a holy factory or a secret monastery in the Swiss Alps somewhere, it's made from paper and ink and can be damaged and destroyed like other books. I would be surprised if I threw the Bible into the fire, that it wouldn't burn. I would be even more surprised, if I seen three men standing in the fire, wait a minute that's another story in the Bible.

Is it possible for this book to actually control the lives of people. It seemed to control Sean, I wonder if I, could have actually been driving a nail home that his parents started. Could I have added to his belief, that the Bible is a book from God the creator of everything.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion. Simple Words Create Powerful Beliefs.

Termite Damaged Sole Plate

Bathroom Remodeling - Tips For Hiring a Professional Decorator

One of the challenging things to do when you're redecorating your bathroom is to find and hire a competent professional who is capable of not only giving you a beautiful bathroom, but also making the space function properly; and all at a reasonable cost to you. Sometimes all you need is a few quick tips or basic guidelines to follow when you're hiring a remodeling professional or decorator.

Even if your remodeling job is as simple as replacing old fixtures with new ones, you still want to work with a contractor who is familiar with important building codes otherwise you could wind up having to tear down all the work you paid for and start all over again. The contractors should also know the plumbing, wiring and structural aspects of the project to make sure you wind up with a professional finish.

There's a number of options for you to choose from to help you in selecting the best professional for your bathroom remodelling project. You may need to hire an architect, interior designer and a building/remodeling contractor - depending on the size and how complex the actual job is. Put some thought into this process before you start borrowing money.

With homeowners scaling back on remodeling projects because of the weak global economy, be careful not to sign with a contractor who is more hungry for your cash than he is interested in doing a great job that will bring repeat business. Word of mouth and thoroughly checking their references should help you find the right decorator or builder for the job you have in mind.

Keeping an eye on your cash is one thing but an even more important aspect of your project is health and safety. If you have guys onsite who aren't sure what they're doing with wiring, plumbing or gas supplies it could have lethal consequences for somebody in your home or for one of the contractors themselves. Don't cut corners on this stuff - the safety of your family could be at stake.

It's so, so important that you hire licensed and insured professionals to complete your remodelling project. Qualified and quality contractors are far more likely to finish the job in a timely and tidy manner than some cowboys you hired for one third of the normal rates. The contractors should apply for the proper permits and follow code from A-Z with no bending of the rules. If your home is inspected by building code officials who determine the work was not completed properly, this will only lead to stress, frustration and additional costs for you. In serious cases you might have to tear all the work back down.

The contractor should apply for the permit in his or her name, not yours. Make sure that you get this in writing before any work begins. This holds the contractor, and not you, responsible for all work that is to be completed. Further, you and the contractor should cooperate with each inspection at each stage of the remodeling project to make sure nothing is missed and everyone knows what's being done.

If you decide to act as your own contractor for your bathroom remodelling project, make sure you research and know everything that is involved; put in a lot of study time for your own sake. Familiarize yourself with the building codes and legal language to ensure that your subcontractors are following the rules and you're not getting duped.

You will have to rely on the expertise of your subcontractors to complete the work, but ultimately, you will be responsible for ensuring that they act with integrity and within your budget. So, make sure you are working with people you can trust; there's nothing worse than having to look over peoples shoulders to make sure they're doing the job properly.

You will also want to become familiar with applying for building permits and how to plan for inspections. This is important for you to know whether or not a job is going in the right direction or not.

Redecorating a bathroom can be daunting. Where do you start? What materials and accessories? If you're looking for more bathroom redecorating ideas then click over to http://www.bathroomcentral.com.

Structural Engineering Books
Masonry Books

Points to Keep in Mind Before Hiring a Carpet Cleaning Company

When it comes to hiring a carpet cleaning company the first question most home owners ask is whether or not to go with a wet or dry carpet cleaning solution. There are advantageous to both but to make the most informed decision possible keep these quick points in mind.

1. Fast. Soggy carpets take longer to dry and require planning and preparation to schedule. If you need your Fort Worth carpet cleaned in a reasonable period of time then go with a provider that doesn't leave you walking in soggy socks for the next two days.

2. See Immediate Results. Ever wonder how you are supposed to know if there is a problem or stain remaining before the carpet is even dry? Using a Fort Worth carpet cleaning company that leaves your carpet dry allows you to see immediate results and have stains or other problem areas treated before the technician leaves the house rather than wait for a return visit.

3. Dirt. The longer the carpet is soaking wet the easier it is to track in new dirt or stains. Instead, go with a vendor that leaves your carpets as dry as possible to avoid adding the possibility of tracking in new dirt by mistake.

4. Bacteria and Other Growth. Soggy carpets attract bacteria, mold and spores that can irritate sensitive individuals and cause unpleasant odors. Use a service that provides quick drying service so you can smell how clean and fresh the carpet is before allowing the technicians to leave.

5. Workmanship. Reputable carpet cleaning companies provide more than carpet cleaning services; they commonly provide Fort Worth carpet repair services at the same time. A dry carpet allows you to view the quality of the repair or need for additional repairs while the technician is still working in the home. Poorly performed repairs can lead to wrinkles, discoloration or other problems that are hard to spot in wet carpet.

6. Longer Life. Soaking wet carpets might dry out but the pad remains wet for much longer; wet padding retains more dirt, bacteria and other mess that causes your carpet to look and smell bad over time. Wet padding reduces the bounce and comfort of the carpet while making it look flat and matted. Avoid compressing the carpet padding by using a Fort Worth carpet cleaning provider that leaves your carpets dry. Kiwi Services is a great example of carpet cleaning and repair that can leave your carpet dry and ready for company in less than an hour!

Kiwi provides Fort worth carpet cleaning services at best prices.

Concrete Garage Stem Wall Corner

Planning Your Bathroom Remodel Budget - Home Improvement Ideas

As a bathroom remodeling contractor, I get calls from people, that have no idea what they want or how much anything is going to cost. Here's some simple tips that can be very helpful when planning a bathroom remodel budget.

Bathroom Remodeling Investment

In 2008, the average mid-range bathroom cost around $16,000 and you could recoup around $12,000 of your original investment upon the sale of your home. According to a popular remodeling magazine, larger bathrooms using expensive fixtures, tile, bathtubs, woodworking, toilets and showers had an average of $52,000. Upon the sale of a home, you could recoup around $36,000 of your original investment.

Finding out How Much Things Cost

My first suggestion, would be to visit your local home improvement center, lumber yard or plumbing supply warehouse. Larger stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, seemed to provide you with value pricing but don't have a large selection. While doing some research on the Internet I noticed that some of their pricing is outrageously, outrageous. Some plumbing supply warehouses can provide value but beware others won't.

Create a List of Bathroom Remodeling Parts

You can get a good idea of your bathroom remodel costs for your budget by making a list of bathroom parts with pricing and then adding them up for a grand total. If you're a total bathroom remodel budget is $15,000 and you have a $6,000 bathtub with $4000 worth of tile, you could have a budget problem.

Figuring out the Labor

You will have to contact a contractor to get an actual cost for the labor. Sometimes you can double the cost of your bathroom remodeling parts to get a rough idea. If you have a list or a couple of lists and a few pictures of some sample bathrooms, this will make the contractor's job easier and often they can give you a labor price within a few days.

Give Yourself a Cushion

I would suggest leaving yourself a small financial cushion for any additional remodeling items. For example, you could see a different toilet, or instead of painting the walls, you now choose to wallpaper, you could incur additional expenses that you haven't planned for. If you know exactly what you want and stick to the original bathroom remodeling plan, you shouldn't need the cushion.

Financial problems often transfer into construction problems, so spend some time figuring out, how much money you want to spend on the bathroom remodel and try not to go overboard on the budget. I hate to see homeowners struggling with home improvement loan payments. Try to create a bathroom remodeling budget that is realistic and will not create a financial burden upon you or your family.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He has just finished a home buyers guide to take some of the frustration out of home shopping.

If your looking for some more bathroom remodeling or home building ideas.

Wall Repairs