interior design dreams: Januari 2011

New Home Construction Trends

With the drastic downturn of activity in new construction, builders are becoming much more savvy in the ways of home building, and new homebuyers are receptive to the changes. Since the bottom fell out of the real estate market last year, builders have had to become more creative in order to survive. New construction trends are giving new home construction a shot in the arm. Builders have basically been re-inventing themselves and becoming more clever in their craftsmanship to draw a new audience.

Federal stimulus dollars and historically low mortgage rates definitely generated some activity in the real estate market earlier this year. Many have opted, however, to purchase new homes instead of existing homes. This year, it has often been cheaper to build than to buy an existing home. The reason is due to significantly reduced costs in construction materials. In addition, many cities across the nation have been waiving or delaying impact fees to builders.

Home builders are noticing that women often have the last say in the purchase of a home, so some new innovations new home builders are incorporating are more storage space, larger laundry rooms, security systems, higher quality construction and larger kitchens. Men, on the other hand, tend to look for larger garages with a work area, space for a home theater system and large TV, along with separate tubs and shower stalls.

With building trends going "green" and people becoming more health conscious, builders are also incorporating energy efficiencies into many new homes, including using products that emit less gasses after the home is completed. Heating and cooling costs are taken into consideration and more cost-efficient products are being installed in new homes. Flexible floor plans, modifications to enable senior citizens to navigate the home safely, outdoor rooms and even Feng Shui have been used in the designing of new homes.

In many development areas where you previously had only two or three designs to choose from, builders are offering the sky's the limit in order to draw new homebuyers. Technology is making its footprint into new home construction, too.

Considered before the home is built, wiring is being configured so that the new owners can have access to state-of-the-art security systems with video pick-up, high speed data and high-tech cable/satellite TV options are all becoming much more common. Systems with remote controls from turning on lights to initiating a security system are also being requested by new homebuyers.

Home envelope products for roofing, insulation, doors and windows are all being considered for safety and energy-efficiency when building a new home, along with solar and wind power. Quality appliance choices, shade and the orientation of where the home sits on the property are also factors in the new building trends.

Existing homeowners have responded to the down market, too. Instead of selling, many are adding space to their current homes and incorporating new trends and technology in the process. Combine new constructions trends with homeowners who are adding innovative space, and you've got a great marriage with a win-win consensus.

Whether it's constructing a new innovative home or building out an existing home with new gadgets, builders are finding work in the current recession and expect the new building trends to grow the new home construction market.

No More New Condo Developments

No More New Condo Developments?

Back in June of this year, HUD issued new rules about FHA financing on condominium projects. These new rules were to apply to new condo developments not assigned an FHA case number by October 1, 2009. That date has since been pushed back to November 2, 2009.

When a home builder develops a condominium project, they submit an application to HUD. Assuming that the development meets HUDs requirements, they approve it and assign an FHA case number. This means that buyers can get FHA financing on units in this project.

FHA loans are tailor-made for first time buyers, the same kind of people who often buy condominiums. Among other things, they allow a buyer to get in with a low down payment of only 3.5%.They'll approve a buyer with a less than perfect credit history. A condo financed with an FHA loan is the perfect way to get your foot in the door in a high cost real estate market, like much of California.

Under the new rules, no more than 30% of the units in a complex can be financed with FHA loans. Worse than that, 50% of the units must be sold before FHA will make any loans in that complex. Without FHA loans, buyers will have to turn to conventional loans, which usually require a 10% down payment. Many buyers simply won't be able to do that. Instead they'll go buy a condo in an existing complex. New home builders won't be able to sell their products.

There is hope, though. In response to the outcry from lenders and builders, HUD is reconsidering. They've delayed the implementation from October 1 to November 2, and indicated that they might consider relaxing the other restrictions.

But relaxing them a little still isn't good enough. Any new homes builder that has a condo project in the works is probably racing to get it approved before November 2nd. If they were planning a future condo project, they would be wise to put it on hold until HUD decides what it's going to do. If these new rules, even in a relaxed version, still exist, they're probably better off to build single family homes instead. Then their buyers will be able to get FHA home loans.

Buying a New Homes Vs Existing Homes

With the surge in new housing developments, many buyers are looking towards newly constructed homes. Are these a better buy than an existing home? The answer is all personal preference.

The standards in today's construction development are high. Newly constructed real estate have standards of quality control that must be meant. Construction of the homes is performed with newer techniques and almost all are more energy efficient than the older homes. Buyers are typically presented with good financing options and a one plus year warranty on many of the homes features and structure. The disadvantage of the new home is although they are easy to obtain selling them is difficult for years to come and the end price is often times higher than that of an existing home. However, one advantage is that home builders will often offer thousands back and require little down payment. They will also offer upgrades and incentives for the buyer to purchase. Buyers of newly construction need to also be aware that the neighborhood landscaping will take years to mature. With the existing, older homes streets are lined with fully mature trees. However for the fresh, new and shiny with a clean smell of a new construction then the new home will likely be your answer.

Existing Real Estate

Existing homes are houses that have been previously owned. They have been constructed and decorated and upgraded to their previous owners likes and dislikes. Often times the construction of these homes is better. Many buyers find existing homes charming with a history of having previous owners vs. the newly constructed home being cold and not lived in. The age of the home makes the home reputable and the area is established with schools, trees, and neighbors. They may have been custom homes or remodeled including interesting rooms and floor plans. The existing homes are for people who like an established property. They are also easier to sell even shortly after you purchase. With the existing home you can also get a homeowners insurance plan that will cover repairs in the home. While these properties may not appeal to everyone they are attractive to many.

Ask yourself, which is a better fit for you- a new or existing house. People will find that they do have a preference and that is where you should be shopping. Look at a few existing homes, then visit a few new home developments. Get a feel to what feels best to you. That will be your answer.

TOP TEN Reasons For Purchasing a Brand New Home Vs A Used, Obsolete One It's NEW!

No one else has ever lived in it before, so everything is clean and brand new. Be the first to soak in your luxurious tub or cook in your new stainless steel oven. No need to worry about expensive repairs or replacements of out-of-date, damaged or worn materials.

Contemporary Floor Plans

Designs evolve. Old, obsolete homes may not address the way people live today. New homes have floor plans designed to facilitate interaction with family and friends. Take advantage of state-of-the-art kitchens, bathrooms with double vanities, ample storage space, and large family rooms open to the kitchen, features which often are lacking in used housing.

Customize Your Home

Build your home to order. You help design your own living environment, just the way you want it. Personalize your home by selecting your own colors, finishes, cabinetry, flooring and features

Quality Built By Someone You Can Trust

You can check out a builder's reputation before choosing to work with him/her. Develop a personal relationship with the professional responsible for building your home. Become part of the team that will create your future residence.

Safer And Healthier

Wiring systems are up-to-date. Hazardous materials, such as asbestos, formaldehyde and lead, have been eliminated from new home building products. New homes must conform with the newest and safest building codes and regulations.

Energy Efficient & Technologically Current

Energy efficient windows. Better insulation technologies. Better control of air infiltration, resulting in healthier indoor air quality. Modern heating & cooling system. Latest appliances and features. Take full advantage of the latest communication, security, home office and entertainment technologies. New homes accommodate electrical needs that didn't exist just a few, short years ago.

Less Expensive To Maintain

Home comes with warranties you don't receive when buying a used home, including direct manufacturers' warranties on new appliances, products and systems. No old parts or appliances to fix. Monthly operating costs are less due to improved technologies. This can mean big savings on utility bills. New building products are more durable and require less maintenance. Frequently, the money saved on a used home is quickly offset by lower maintenance and efficiency costs.

Neighborhood Bonds

Make friends quickly. Everyone in your new neighborhood just moved in, so it's easy to establish new and lasting friendships.

Pride

Pride in the ownership of your new home, one you helped design and which expresses your lifestyle and taste.

Financial Advantages

Build home equity. Roll the cost of upgrades into your mortgage and pay over time. When renovating a used home, you need to pay cash, or take out a home improvement loan at a higher interest rate. Newer homes usually have a higher resale value.

Charter Group, Inc., a custom home building company, has been creating distinctive residences in Western Connecticut since 1978. During this time, it has become one of the most successful and dynamic companies in the region, with hundreds of beautiful homes to its credit.

To Charter Group, building a quality home involves many factors. Of course, only the best materials are used and excellence is sought from all of its craftsmen. However, its concept of quality goes from there to include unique floor plans and handsome exteriors, many energy saving features, desirable neighborhoods and excellent service.

We are proud of our affiliation with ENERGY STAR, and will continue to stress energy-efficient construction and environmental protection in all of our homes and communities.

Some Hints That You Might Want to Buy a New Home

With all the talk about the price and value of real estate these days, you might be wondering how you know when it's a good time to jump on the bandwagon and buy a new home. While some people have no problem knowing when it is a good time to move into a new home, sometimes residents linger in a home long after it has ceased to fulfill their needs.

There are quite a few ways that you can tell that you should look for a new home instead of staying in an environment that isn't comfortable to your lifestyle or your family. One big hint that you'd be happier living elsewhere is if you find yourself daydreaming about living in a different area, a different type of home, or even a different country. Do you find yourself watching real estate television or reading the real estate section of the newspaper on a regular basis? If any of these options are valid options, then maybe you should pursue them.

There is nothing of interest for you in your present location and you need to travel for all of your hobbies or activities, you might want to consider moving closer to that area. Even if a home closer to your work or hobbies is a bit more expensive, you'll likely save money on commuting costs and have more free time as well.

Sometimes the reason that you would be better off buying a new home is that your old home doesn't fit your requirements anymore; this can be for a variety of reasons like a change in your family or work life. Many people buy a new house after having a baby so that they can have more space after living in a home that was ample for two people. Other people might buy a new home because they have an elderly parent or a college-aged child move back in with them for financial reasons. Changing jobs is a good reason to buy a new house in a different area or even buying a smaller, less expensive home if your family will have a smaller income as a result.

Another good reason to buy a new home is when your old home doesn't meet the needs of one or more of the residents physical needs. If you or someone else in your home has mobility problems that require an on-level entrance or doorways that can allow a wheelchair access then it's likely that if your current home doesn't provide that, a new home might be a good idea.

Last, but not least, if your neighbourhood is changing in a way that you're finding makes you not enjoy living in the area, then you might want to search out a new residence elsewhere. It's not uncommon, when you own a home over a long period of time, that the neighbourhood that you have been living in changes. Sometimes these changes are due to rezoning; sometimes a neighbourhood will develop a higher crime rate, especially if there are a high percentage of homes that have become vacant in the area.

Any of these reasons are a good reason to look for a new home, though you might have other reasons that are all your own to look for a new home. When you look for a new home, take the time to make sure that you research what you and your family will need out of a home and a neighbourhood before starting your search so that you can ensure that you find a location that will suit your needs for years to come.

Reverse Mortgages Help Seniors Keep Their Home Or Purchase A New Home

For many seniors, home equity is roughly 30-40 percent of their net worth. They are house poor often times and don't have the available funds to make repairs. If you and your spouse are both at least 62 years of age and have significant equity in your home, a reverse mortgage can turn that equity into tax-free cash without forcing you to move or make a monthly payment. YOU DON'T NEED A JOB AND YOU DON'T NEED CREDIT! Age and equity are the only qualifying factors.

A reverse mortgage can be a worthwhile financial tool if used correctly. At the same time, you could make some serious mistakes with your financial future. For example, you don't want to take your equity and run down to the casino.

A reverse mortgage gets its name because of the way it works. Instead of the borrower making payments to the lender, the lender releases equity to the borrower in a number of forms:

· A lump sum cash payment;

· A monthly cash payment;

· A line of credit (which tends to be the most popular option);

o Some combination of the above.

When the owner dies or moves away, the house can be sold, the loan paid off and any leftover equity value can go to the living owner or the designated heirs. Heirs don't have to sell the house. They can either pay off the reverse mortgage with their own funds or refinance the outstanding loan balance within six months with the option of two 90-day extensions that must be applied for. Unfortunately, heirs often discourage people from getting a reverse mortgage because they are afraid of losing their inheritance.

There are three basic types of reverse mortgages:

· Single-purpose reverse mortgages, which are offered by some state and local government agencies and nonprofit organizations;

· Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs) are federally insured reversed mortgages backed by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD);

o Proprietary reverse mortgages are private loans that cover home values usually over $600,000.
Some loans are conventional loans, some are proprietary loans held by certain lenders and some are insured by FHA.

The size of a reverse mortgage is determined by the borrower's age, the interest rate and the home's value. The older a borrower, the more they can borrow, but the amounts are capped by the maximum FHA loan limit for each city and county. The amounts vary from $200,160 in rural areas to $362,790 in many major metropolitan areas. In Alaska, Guam, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the FHA mortgage limits can be adjusted up to 150 percent of the ceiling based on the area. If the FHA modernization Act is passed, it is possible that the FHA loan limit will be raised. This would be great, since it seems that FHA is the mortgage loan that generally gives more equity to the senior.

Reverse mortgages have traditionally been chosen by older Americans who can't cover everyday living expenses or who otherwise need cash for such things as long-term care premiums, home health care services, home improvements or to pay off their current mortgage or credit cards greater than their income can support. More recently, though, they've become popular with individuals who see them as a better alternative to home equity lines. Some use the proceeds to supplement monthly income, buy a car, fund travel and second homes. Evaluate with the help of a financial adviser if reverse mortgage funds can be used to restructure estate taxes.

You will have to consult with a financial planner before you're granted this loan - that's one of the requirements. This step can be completed within the first few days of the process. The basic loan closing now takes place in about 30-40 days from the date of application. Generally the only out-of-pocket cost is an appraisal fee ranging from $300- $500. There is required counseling to make sure that you are making the right decision for you.

Here are other things to consider-some of these are risks:

Cost: Reverse mortgages are generally more expensive than traditional mortgages in terms of origination fees, closing costs and other charges. The basic FHA-backed HECM loan finances these fees into the initial loan balance, and they can run between $12,000 and $18,000. The loans are based on anticipated home value appreciation of four percent a year, so if the housing market is healthy, those costs are generally recovered in a short period of time. But if the housing market sours, it will definitely take longer to recoup those fees.

You'll need to make sure you're not endangering your federal retirement benefits: The basic FHA HECM is designed as tax-free income to the senior receiving their Social Security income. However, if your total liquid assets exceed allowable limits under federal guidelines, you might endanger your benefits. This is another critical reason to work with a financial planner on this decision.

Rates: Reverse mortgages have rates that are typically higher than those charged on conventional mortgages. Interest is charged on the outstanding balance and added to the amount you owe each month. Again, check the total annual loan cost.

Your mortgage can be called due and payable: The homeowner or estate always retains title to the home, but if you fail to pay your property taxes, adequately maintain your home, pay your insurance premiums, or change your primary residence, the lender can declare the mortgage due or reduce the amount of monthly cash advances to pay those overdue amounts.

Did you know that you can actually use a reverse mortage to buy a house? How do you do it? Let's take an example: maybe you sell you are a senior that sells their home and nets 300K. Next they can go buy a new home for about 500K, by putting down 300K, and financing the other 200K with a reverse mortgage. Maybe a senior would like to move from their older house of many years to a new condo or loft. This would be a great way to do it.

Talk to your kids as their ignorance of this product may cause them to give you bad advice. If your house is your major asset, getting involved in a reverse mortgage may not leave much to the next generation - if it appreciates, there may be some difference that the kids can have. That's why that in addition to discussing a reverse mortgage with a financial adviser, seniors need to talk with their family.

What's In Store For Home Developers & Builders Who Go Green?

With the talk of global warming and climate change dominating headlines these days, many industries, including the real estate sector, are contemplating on finding ways to reduce waste, pollution and improve profits at the same time.

The home building industry now has totally bought into the idea of green building, and a lot of reasons are in store for why they are rerouting themselves in this direction.

How Fast Should Building Green Go For The Real Estate Industry?

The major question these days is that, how quick should the industry adapt the concepts of "building green", and when would it become the norm for all home developer decisions?

Since 2007, the industry has seen a 70% rise in total LEED registered and certified home building projects, on top of more than 50% cumulative growth in 2006. The reason is that, there have been major events or developments in the past two years, among them are the outpouring of concern over carbon dioxide emissions from energy use of all kinds, Al Gore's Nobel Peace Price for An Inconvenient Truth, and the effects made by Hurricane Katrina and its exposure of the vulnerability of a major American city to natural forces.

With these events in mind, much of the public today is demanding action on climate change, in ways both small and significant. Because most major US businesses still know how to listen to the consumer, it realizes that a large part of its future success would surely come from reducing its carbon footprint, through initiating energy conservation programs and greening new buildings.

Potential Benefits For Home Builders Who Go Green

For home developers who would embrace the concepts of green building, there are a lot of potential benefits that would await them. Among the positive aspects of going green are:

- The Demand is Present.

Many commercial office tenants are realizing the business case for productivity and health in LEED-certified buildings, and are looking at options that offer superior daylighting and indoor air quality. A previous survey on businesses found out that the levels of employee satisfaction with their working conditions showed greater increases when they ere working in more energy-efficient and greener workplaces, than on non-certified workplaces. In the public sector, the demand is also growing, as one agency after another makes a commitment to LEED-certify all future public buildings.

- More Savings On Energy

This idea has gone from being a "good one" to a necessity for many businesses. It's not simply because energy conservation has a positive life-cycle cost impact, but also that it offers a direct reduction in a firm or corporation's total "carbon footprint." A number of researches have indicated that energy conservation not only also offers a positive way to save and make more money, but that it's also the most cost-effective way to lower society's carbon dioxide output, and only requires an ability to finance the investment, and won't need to buy newer technology.

- Green Building Shows A Visible Sense Of Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate America these days is desperate for getting good people. Going green helps improve a businesses reputation, and will help in them hiring the good types of people to work for them, especially the younger ones aged 24 to 45 . If a company cannot attract and keep these people by conforming their business practices to their values, then it would be quite hard for the firm to prosper. Green building represents a visible and more positive affirmation of the values of sustainability and social responsibility, and is an indicator of what companies' need to make to get and keep good people.

Going Green Helps Increase Property Values.

A study released in October by the University of San Diego, revealed that in the 2,000 large office buildings in the CoStar® database of commercial properties, the ones that had Energy Star-rated office buildings, which are those in the top 25 percent of energy performance, have had 2% higher occupancy levels, as well as $2 per square foot greater rents. In addition, Energy Star buildings as of 2006 sold at a 30% premium in dollars per square foot, as compared to non-Energy Star-rated buildings. This shows that green buildings are more valuable, and will continue to be become more valuable with each year.

New Home Construction - Plumbing Part One

I titled this article "Part One" because there is much to be covered in the plumbing topic. Today let's talk about the water supply lines that will go into your new home. We'll begin with a product called Pex. It is rapidly replacing the use of copper for new home water lines.

Pex is the industry given name for a form of plastic plumbing lines for water supply in a new home. The correct name is cross-linked polyethylene. A special manufacturing process has created a durable plastic ideal for use in water supply lines. PEX tubing is made from a plastic created from molecules of high-density polyethylene that have been permanently linked together by a process called cross-linking. There have been attempts in the past to develop plastic lines and these have met with varying degrees of success or lack thereof.

This time they got it right.Here is what the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing had to say about Pex on their Toolbase.org website (see link below):

"In parallel layouts where supply lines are dedicated to one fixture, only two fittings are used. Labor costs can be lower than rigid piping system installations.

There is less heat loss from PEX than there is from metallic pipe. The small diameter tubing that can be used in parallel installations allows less water consumption waiting for delivery of the heated water.

Polyethylene has no VOCs and can be recycled.

Successfully used in Europe and the U.S. for over 30 years. Extensive testing and certification is conducted to assure durability and resistance to effects of high and low temperatures and chlorine."

http://www.toolbase.org/pdf/techinv/pexhomerunplumbing_techspec.pdf

It is important to note that Pex is approved by all codes in the US. The plumbing industry is rapidly embracing it as it proving to be the far superior product.

In a typical installation when using copper, the supply lines are placed under and in the slab foundation. The problem with that is if you develop a leak under the slab, then you must jack hammer your floor to access the leak, if you can find it. Copper reacts with concrete and will corrode over time if in direct contact. Plumbers try to sleeve the copper where it passes through the foundation, but can't always be sure that in the placement of the concrete that the sleeving wasn't compromised.

Pex may be installed under the slab as well. Where it passes through the concrete it does not require a sleeve as it does not react with the concrete. We have found the better way to install is overhead. In our homes there are no water lines in the foundation. Consideration must be given to protection from freezing when installed in such a manner. This of course is no problem as our entire attic is insulated space since we apply our insulation to the underside of the roof (see my article, "Nothing Insulates Like Insulation").

Another benefit to Pex is that usually we install, inside the home, a manifold that is easy to access. This allows you to turn off water to any fixture that you desire. If you need to make a repair to a faucet or install a new one, you simply turn the handle labeled for that fixture and the water is off.

The only downside to Pex that we see in the industry is that like anything new it requires training. Make sure your plumber is properly trained. The manufacturers of Pex send their field representatives to the plumbers and train them on its proper use and installation, using videos, technical documents and hands on demonstrations.

How Much Will Building a New Home Cost Me?

Quoting a price for construction of a new home is one of the hardest things to do because every home is unique and truly there are no two houses exactly alike, even if it is only the lot that makes them different.

Perhaps one of the most significant factors to cost of new home construction is the local region. Local building codes and labor play a major role in the cost of new home construction. Local building codes vary widely by region. For example, in warm climates building codes often do not require high-performance windows, higher insulation values or advanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Strict building codes or lack thereof makes a significant impact on the cost of constructing a new home.

Local labor in certain parts of the country is also higher than in other portions of the country. In places that unions are prominent in residential new construction, prices will generally be higher too. Strong unions tend to set the upper price point for skilled labor and it seems non-union wages are higher in areas with stronger union representation. As a general rule, places that have excess labor will have lower labor rates. Because of the recession and the real estate new construction depression, the price of labor has been generally falling around the country the last few years. This trend will continue until the supply and demand of labor reverses itself.

Although not included in the cost of building directly, land prices are easily the biggest factor in home and lot package. The cost of a lot in a city like Los Angeles, New York or Chicago could easily cost more than a home with a lot located in Indianapolis or Minneapolis. Also, lot improvements can be a hidden cost if the lot is not previously engineered by a land developer. Soil corrections, raising or lower lot elevations, sourcing utilities not on the edge of the property, drilling a well or installing a septic can all add large costs to the budget. If the lot is not pre-engineered by a land developer, obtaining at least one soil boring (four is best) where the house will be located is a very smart idea before you close on the purchase of the lot.

Finishes are another big contributor to the cost of construction. I have heard some rich and famous have built houses exceeding $5,000 per square foot with the major difference being extremely high-end finishes. Gold plating things can add up quickly. For us regular everyday type folks, even things like kitchen appliances (stove, dishwasher, microwave/hood, and refrigerator/freezer) can cost as little as $2,000, but can easily cost $25,000 for appliances that basically do the same things, like cool and cook food. Lighting fixtures can be much the same story. You can purchase lighting fixtures at your local Home Improvement store for as little as $500-600. Conversely, you can purchase a single dining room chandelier for a few thousand dollars or ten of thousands. In the case of the rich and famous, the sky is the limit on this stuff.

Having a green building background, I also know that green building can cost you your green (cash). There are a lot of builders selling "green bling". "Green bling" are things that consumers have heard about and want added to their home and either have a slow payback or no payback at all. Unscrupulous builders can take advantage of a buyers desire to be environmentally conscience by selling a bunch of upgrades that are not only expensive, but are not really that green.

For the average American, building a new home will vary depending on the factors above and more, but in general the higher the square footage, the lower the cost per square foot and vice versa. The majority of houses I have seen around the country range from a low of about $80 per square foot to a high of $300 per square foot. In the Midwest, a good guideline is to budget for $150 per square foot on the main floor, $100 per square foot for the second story and $50 per square foot for finished square footage in the lower level. To these budget numbers you add the lot cost and lot improvements and you should be in the ballpark. For example, a 2,400 square foot two story home with 1,2000 square feet on each floor would cost approximately $380,000.000 with a $80,000 lot. In a down economy the pricing will be lower and higher in an up economy. There are wide differences in the quality of construction at the same price point between various builders.

As you can see, there are many factors that go into the cost of a new construction home and therefore it can be very hard to compare pricing between builders. Sending out a set of plans for bid does not mean you are comparing apples to apples. Builders are smart and know how to cut costs to win a build, but that does not mean you are receiving the best value.

Larger builders tend to deliver the most square footage for the least amount of money, but have cost reduced the product to make that happen. Cost reduction usually means materials are on the lower end of the price spectrum. You will see things like hollow-core pre-painted doors, plastic or pre-finished trim, vinyl floors, shower inserts, vinyl siding and the list goes on and on and on. While lower cost materials does not necessarily mean lower quality, there is a definite difference between homes built with higher quality versus lower quality materials. Square footage, house floor plan and granite counter-tops shouldn't be the only considerations if you are planning on living in that home more than 5-10 years.

On the other hand, smaller builders tend to provide custom type construction with higher building materials, but can come with their own set of challenges. Smaller builders may not have adequate staff to provide the customer service you may be looking for or may not even be in business in five years. Many smaller builders fail to run a very tight ship financially and the cost of your project could easily be over budget. Also, using a smaller builder does not guarantee a quality built home. It is best to do your homework on any of the builders you are considering.

As a builder myself, we use an open book methodology. This means the consumer sees all actual costs and the actual builder's profit. I am not advocating our system over another, but I find in todays' world of educated consumers, consumers understand a builder needs to make a profit and seem to be more comfortable when that number is fully disclosed. To that end, I have never had a customer come to us and ask us to cut our profit.

I am not sure I adequately answered the question "How much will building a new home cost me", but hopefully you have a better understanding of the things that attract cost and some ideas about how to go about selecting a builder.

This article written by Raymond Pruban, Chief Manager of Amaris Company, a Minnesota based green home builder.

Building "Amaris" green is building smart. Before you build to the MINIMUM State Building Codes with our competition, check us out. Amaris "green" homes look like standard homes but are actually very different. Unlike nearly every other builder, Amaris-built new homes far exceed minimum state building codes.

Where Do I Want to Build My New Home?

There are many significant considerations to be made when purchasing land to build a home. Typically when you make an offer to purchase a piece of land, you have 30 to 60 days to evaluate the property thoroughly prior to purchase. Ideally you will know what to look for prior to making the offer, but this is not necessarily the case.

One major consideration is the price that you pay for the property, and to feel that the agreed upon price is a fair price. You don't want to pay too much for the property, but the seller does not want to sell it for to little. If you have taken the time to look for property and have had the opportunity to compare it to others, you will know when you have property at a fair price.

Another consideration may be any restrictions placed upon the use of the land. This would often come in the form of covenants. These are typically rules and regulations placed on the property by the developer. This might include restrictions on the size of home, the height, the color, the architectural style or the type of exterior finishes. This is important because you would not want to purchase the land only to find out that the type of home that you want to build does not meet the covenants.

The topography and soil conditions of the site are important. Poor soils mean poor drainage and additional development costs. Poor soils can also affect the concrete footing size and the cost of construction. You may wish to build a single story rambler home, but if the lot is sloping it may be difficult, or add substantially to the cost of construction

Water and sewer availability are critical to building a home on the property. If the site will require an on-site sewer system, then a system will need to be designed and approved by the local municipality. If soils are poor or very sensitive it may not be possible to design a septic system to meet the needs of your new home. If a well is required for domestic water, then it is important to have some idea whether water is available, what well depths are in the area, and what it might cost. Without water a piece of land would not be buildable.

If the property does not directly adjoin a public road, then it is important to verify that there is legal access. You must have some form of legal access to get to the property. This could be by easement or right of way.

Sometimes getting power to the building site can be difficult and costly. It is important to determine that power and phone will be available and verify the cost. Extend the power several hundred feet to the proposed building site can be expensive and prohibitive.

Selecting the right piece in the right location is most important to you. For this reason only you can decide how far you are will to go to develop the site for your dream home.

Your land and the type of home that you build are the result of choices only you can make and UBuildIt can assist you with that.

New Homes Vs Existing Homes 2010

July has been another challenging month for the North Texas real estate market. While new homes experienced a rise in sales - nearly 50% over that of a year ago, existing homes slipped by three percent compared to this time last year. A definitely hit in the market.

The 2010 tax credits for homebuyers definitely did have an impact on the home buyers motivation. Homes had to originally close by June 30th to qualify for the Federal tax credits, however, this was extended to September 30th.

Mortgage rates are still at a record breaking low. And, the median priced home in North Texas goes unchanged from that of last year at $155,000. While the end of the April 30th federal tax credit may have slowed up home buying in the North Texas area, it is expected to once again pick up as home owners take advantage of the existing all-time low mortgage rates.

Whether the sales of existing homes continues to drop is strictly a matter of speculation. However, looking at the pros and cons will help lead one to a prediction in the coming months:

Preowned Home: Pros

Often the existing home is of better construction and higher quality workmanship - simply because of the fact that often times the existing home was built when materials and labor was cheaper.

There are many extras that are included in the existing home such as:

- appliances
- window treatments
- Landscaping is normally fully developed
- Renovations have often been made.
- Added character is often found in the architectural style of the home.
- Neighborhoods are established

Pre-owned Home Cons:

- They may be less energy efficient
- Building materials may be difficult to match or replace
- May need repairs and renovations

Newly Constructed Home: Pros

- Virtually repair free
- Energy efficient
- Customized options
- Less maintenance
- Modern amenities
- Wired for security
- You are able to make decorating decisions
- May have more upgraded neighborhood features such as parks and ponds
- Building materials may be safer
- Warranties on appliance and construction materials most often apply

New Home: Cons

- Often more expensive than existing homes
- Construction delays are common
- Landscape is not developed
- Resale may be difficult if the development is not fully constructed
- Overgrowth in surrounding areas may occur
- Additional costs and higher taxes may apply

As you can see there are definite advantages to both: the new and the existing home. And, it will be strictly a matter of the home buyers preference.

New Home Construction Trends

How to Buy a New Home After You Have Had a Foreclosure

This article will cover the following points that are affecting you right now or will affect you in the near future.

1. The credit market effects on your future

2. Real estate ownership under the affects of a mortgage

3. The affects of your ARM mortgage.

4. The types of homes being built for today's markets

5. The prices of modern homes

6. The affect of foreclosures on the surrounding homes in their vicinity

7. Job layoffs and their affects on the real estate markets

8. The home value market corrections

9. The affects upon your future when you have a foreclosure on your record

10. Real estate market corrections and their affect upon your home's value

11. How you can recover from a foreclosure and own your dream house again.

12. The solution to these problems, should you chose to take the path we give to you.

In these days of the recession we are all faced with a reduction in our ability to acquire the cash we need for our daily functions. Layoffs are threatening everyone.

The credit cards we have been using for some of our purchases have their limits reduced. The way to get short term loans at reasonable credit terms is a thing of the past. Most of these loans are being handled by the check advance loans where you borrow $500.00 and pay back as much as $600.00. This is an extreme but expect this to happen if it hasn't already. Another modern gap is filled by auto title loans which cost a lot to pay off.

None the less the economy is taking a turn for the worse. The largest effects are being felt in the real estate area. Many home owners are under foreclosure with no way out. The government has attempted to set up a program that will solve this problem which will let those under foreclosure refinance under special conditions.

However that will not help those that have already been under foreclosure and are out of their homes.

There is an existing problem with the idea of setting it up so that those home owners can refinance their mortgages. That problem is a very large amount of those individuals that own a home bought them on a mortgage instrument known as an ARM. This is an acronym for Adjustable Rate Mortgage.

The problem with ARM's is that they provide an interest rate for that mortgage holder that is anywhere from 1.5 percent to 3 percent for a set period of from 3 to up to 10 years. Usually they are from 3 to 5 years before the fixed interest rate is changed to the variable rate that it was designed for. When this was done many of the applicants were found to be eligible based upon their income. They could buy a larger, more elaborate home based upon their income. This is true for the rate they received for initially getting that mortgage. But the problem is that they could not qualify, based upon their income, for buying a home of that value because the payment is about 25 to 30 percent higher than their ARM payment is. It is true that these homes increased in value but all financial institutions had guidelines for the income required to qualify for a home mortgage. So the refinancing was usually denied unless the family income could be increased.

Here is a summary of the way the market in my state, the state of Utah, was developed:

1. A large amount of homes were sold on ARM's

2. Because of the type of homes appearing to be in demand, most of the developers were building higher priced homes.

3. Most of these homes were originally built to cover the average income for the population of the area. The markets seemed to be flooded with these type homes.

4. The incomes were not increasing with the cost of the housing market.

5. Most homes were built with the income level of the upper middle class and the higher income levels. Most nearly within the higher income level.

6. The medium priced homes were not being built because the developers figured the area was full of these type homes already.

7. The price range was from about $220,000.00 to 2.5 million dollar houses

8. The average incomes were well below that level when the qualifications were based upon a fixed rate mortgage. A majority of the area income could not qualify for this price in new homes.

9. The ARM could be used to sell these homes to the middle income markets.

10. Often if the family had both parents producing income they could qualify for the ARM's being offered.

11. If one or the other lost their job they could probably still make the mortgage payment on the ARM mortgage.

12. The ARM's were the answer to the sales of these homes and the buyers were excited because they could get the homes of their dreams.

13. Few, if any, standard fixed rate mortgages were being written compared to the amount of ARM's being written.

14. Many were hoping for an increase in income or a refinance when their ARM would lose its fixed term protection. Fixed term protection is that period where the ARM could not be adjusted based upon the interest rates offered by banks plus an additional couple of interest points above that. When the interest was 6.5 percent, the ARM interest after the locked rate time would be about 8 or 9 percent or more depending on the terms of the ARM.

This seems to be the way it is all across the nation. ARM's were handed out like candy to a hungry child. Everybody wanted the best and they went after the ARM like there was no tomorrow.

So what is to become of those ARM mortgage holders when they all suddenly lose their interest rate protection? They try to keep up with the extended mortgage payment but it is costing them everything else they own. But eventually the ARM wins out and they miss the first 2 or 3 payment. The foreclosure is started.

The worst part of this is it isn't over yet. There are a multitude lf ARM's out there just getting ready to approaching maturity of their hold interest rate period. When they hit that point the fun will really begin.

In addition the value of that home has dropped drastically because of the start of the foreclosures. The rule of thumb says that for every foreclosure, every home in that neighborhood or sub division will lose 1 percent of their value. Now when 10 homes is that area are foreclosed on then the remaining home will lose 10 percent of their value. As an example; your homes last highest market value was $220,000.00. You recently paid that for it. It now has a value on the market of about $198,000.00. You just lost $22,000.00 equity in that home. And the process isn't through yet. Not until the last foreclosure hits your neighborhood will it be over. My predicted losses in home value could exceed 30% before it ends. Now that home we just talked about is only worth $154,000.00. that's a loss of $66,000.00 in equity.

Now if you could pay that home off this won't matter much. A paid off home can decrease in value and eventually stabilize. Then when it is all over the values will increase, starting at a very quick rate and stabilizing eventually. Then all that equity you lost for that period of time won't hurt your value any longer. Real estate usually recovers quickly and stabilizes at the value it was originally and then it increases again from that. Typically, in a good real estate market, the value of homes increases about 2 to 3 percent per year. When a market low ends the short term increase could be at the rate of 8 to 9 percent for the first 2 or 3 years. All markets that go down quickly often tend to increase fairly quickly.

Now we add to this the amount of job losses that will occur during this period. It is expected to be very extensive nationwide. You, personally, are in danger of losing you job.

The only way you can recover from this is to abandon that dream home or find a way to pay it off quickly. If you have already been foreclosed on you will now be out of the home market for the next 10 years or more. Your credit rating is shot. You're a renter for that period of time. Renting only cost you your money but you don't have a choice in the matter. If you could remain a home owner your cost of housing will eventually put you in a position to have the final payment made and you are now a secured homeowner.

Even owning a home free and clear in a depressed market is more financially safer than paying rent for the next 10 years of your life. No more mortgages and no more chance of foreclosure. It really doesn't matter now what the value of your home is, it will eventually go back up in value. All real estate investments correct for the markets. Usually at 20 year intervals but when certain condition exists, like high gas prices, the markets adjust at that time to correct the affects that such an event causes.

I recently ran across a program that would solve this problem. In the beginning of this program you could make enough money to keep that high mortgage payment up and you could show enough income to qualify for a fixed rate conventional, non ARM, mortgage. If you continue to work with the program you could eventually make enough to pay that mortgage off and have your home free and clear except for taxes.

This all depends upon how you work this program. It is a program designed to make you money even while you sleep. It is internet related. The amount of time you need to spend with it is about 1 to 3 hours a day. It will take some time to get it set up and to get what needs to be done finished so that it can work like it should. But when it gets going you can relax and enjoy your new found income source. It can save you from all that we have talked about here. And the education you get for your money is well worth the small cost of the program.

If you suffered a foreclosure, the 10 years you will spend as a renter will allow you to accumulate enough money to purchase that next house for hard cash money with some left over. Having a foreclosure doesn't keep you from home ownership, but it does keep you from obtaining a mortgage to buy one.

No More New Condo Developments?

Buying a Home - Check Out These 10 Tips Before You Choose a New Home

New home planned communities or developments are sprouting up all over the U.S. Statistics show that up to 1.6 million new homes are being constructed each year. If you're a homebuyer searching for a new home, there's nothing like the anticipation of moving into a brand new home tailored just for you. In spite of the positive features offered by a new home, there are negative features you should be aware of. First let's go over the positive features:

1) You'll Be The First Owner - There's nothing like the feeling of moving into a brand new home designed just for you. You can expect everything to be immaculately clean.

2) It's Customized For You - While a semi-custom home gives you greater customization, you can still customize a tract home's paint colors, flooring, and fixtures. You can also choose from several floor plans to suit your needs.

3) Designed For Today's Lifestyle - Homebuilders have designed today's new homes to fit today's lifestyle. Convenient 3 car garages, smooth flowing floor plans and cable or high speed date lines make newer homes very appealing to today's homebuyer. New homes also feature energy saving appliances designed to save you money in the years ahead.

4) Better For The Environment - By using energy efficient materials to build a new home, you'll save on heating and cooling costs thereby using less of our natural resources.

5) Master Planned Community - As you look into buying a new home, you'll find most of them built in master planned communities. Many of these communities have HOA (Homeowner's Association) rules and guidelines every homeowner needs to follow. These communities also feature community swimming pools and recreation centers. Now lets study the negative features:

6) Higher Cost - New homes typically cost more than an older home, but they tend to have a higher resale value. Plus you'll find some good financing deals offered by the developer to help you buy your new home.

7) Less Protection - Instead of having a Realtor represent your interests and advise you during the homebuying process, you'll have to deal with the developer's salesperson.

8) You'll Be The First To Discover Flaws - Building materials used in new homes aren't as durable as those used in older homes so it's not uncommon to discover malfunctioning appliances or parts. As the first owner of a new home, expect to discover some flaws as you adjust to living in your new home.

9) Delayed Completion Date - New home builders strive hard to complete your home by the estimated due date, however it's common for weather problems and other unexpected delays to occur. Be prepared for these potential delays and don't expect much in the way of compensation from the builder if you're inconvenienced.

10) Rules - Many planned communities require you to live by their written rules regarding use of the property. Unless you plan on moving out, you'll have to live with those rules.

Tough Energy Efficiency Standards For New Homes

Housing Minister John Healey recently announced a new Standard for the energy efficiency of zero carbon homes. He proposed that energy efficiency should play a significant role in the delivery of zero carbon homes. He said that these new Standards signalled "...real momentum to change and radically rethink how we design our future towns and homes."

The new Fabric Energy Efficiency Standard will aim to deliver a much higher energy performance level for new homes by improving the fabric of the building: An improvement that would secure long lasting benefits for both home owners and occupiers.

Energy Performance Certificates provide the Standard Measure.

The new Standard will cover energy demand for space heating and cooling, assuming natural ventilation, but excluding any gains from the domestic hot water system and other appliances. It is expressed in kWh/m²/yr, a metric already familiar to many involved in energy efficiency assessments. It is the measure used in producing Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and both design stage and completion energy assessments, under Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP).

The proposed levels for the Fabric Energy Efficiency Standards are:

    * Apartment Blocks and Mid-terrace Houses 39 kWh/m²/yr
    * End of Terrace, Semi and Detached Houses 46 kWh/m²/yr

It is interesting to compare the new Standard with what is currently typical in existing homes:

    * A 1930's semi-detached house with some improvements; such as double glazing and 300mm of loft insulation, uses around 7.5 times the proposed Standard.
    * A mid-floor apartment built within the past five years uses around 6.25 times the proposed Standard.

Clearly, if the proposed Standards are fully implemented as planned in 2016, the change needed to the fabric design and specification of new homes is going to be considerable.

New Generation of Energy Efficient Homes.

With an interim Standard proposed for 2013 and further news imminent, house builders and developers who start preparing now are likely to gain a significant advantage over their competitors: Early entry to the market with a carefully developed and cost effective, new generation of energy efficient home design and specification.

Buying a New Homes Vs Existing Homes

Building a New Home

Building your own home can be a hugely rewarding experience. You get to stamp your mark, your personality on the project. Not to mention the fact that you also get a pristine place to live, fully insulated and with no maintenance required. Quite significant benefits really.

When building there are a whole new set of issues to deal with - issues that are completely different from purchasing an existing property. Some of these issues relate to how you will have to deal with a bank to finance a building project, and often, a valuer who is also involved in the process.

FINANCING

Most people don't have the cash available to have a house built from scratch. It therefore becomes necessary to borrow the funds, usually from one of the main banks. The bank will just about always require a valuation of the property based on "As-if-Complete". This simply means what the property will be worth once complete including planned landscaping of the site and installation of chattels like carpets, drapes, dishwasher and light fittings.

The bank will not normally lend you all the money at once. The money is normally lent in stages during the building project. The reason for this is so that the bank protects itself from financial loss should your building project not be completed. In essence, the bank wants to keep enough money spare just in case something happens and they have to finish the project off.

THE ROLE OF THE PROPERTY VALUER

It is a the valuers role to assess the "as-if-complete" value, and to provide progress payment valuations throughout the building process. The valuer is basically an independent party who acts primarily for the banks protection, but who also has a duty of care to the clients undertaking the project.

The valuer will need a copy of the plans and specifications for the project. He/she analyses these plans, looking at the overall quality of construction, size of the dwelling, and floor plan and flow. The valuer will then visit the site and assess the overall quality of the lot, things like contour, aspect to the sun, views if any, position within a development, and the overall quality of the neighbourhood. The valuer will also recheck the plans to see how the new house "relates" to the site and to assess any planned landscaping.

During the build process the valuer may have to revisit the site anywhere from once to possibly five times. The number of visits is often determined by when the client needs to draw down more money to pay builders and/or suppliers. It is a good idea to get a schedule of draw downs from your builder, so you know exactly when you will need a progress report and can then pre-book your valuer.

One very important issue to remember with progress reports and building is that the valuer cannot include any items that you may have paid for, but are not installed. Say you go out and buy all your bathroom fittings early on in the project. The valuer cannot include these if they are not installed. The reason behind this is that in a worse case scenario, where a bank has to finish a project, they may not have access to the uninstalled items (they may have been repossessed by the suppliers).

Tim Stokes is an independent property expert, based in Wellington, New Zealand. Over the last 15 years Tim has helped over 2000 clients make the most informed property decisions. Tim's expertise covers buying, selling and investing in New Zealand residential property.

St George - New Home Builders in Utah

St. George, Utah Home Builders - Looking for your next home could be a little daunting, so here is a little help on finding your next place. Click on the links below to receive access to floor plans, prices and locations of the various communities created by St. George, Utah home builders.

Ence Homes - Have your pick of custom built or already created homes. Some of the available communities include Amber Estates, which offers homes between 1,100 sq ft and 1,875 sq ft with two car garages. Another community is Suncrest West; this offers homes between 1,040 sq ft and 2,594 sq ft with 2-3 bedrooms and 3-4 bathrooms. Browse around the other many communities.

S & S Homes - Six developments are available with this Utah home builder; Estrella, Copperlead, Paradise Canyon, The Trails, Highlands and Escalera. S & S is a trusted home builder that has been in the field for 26 years. Take a look at their communities to see if there is something for you and your family.

Sun River Homes - Visit one of Sun River's most prominent establishments, The Villas - where you can "stay and play". It is a golf community, so if you like the game, this may be the community for you. There are also others you can look into.

Ivory Homes - This home builder advertises "hip" new pads that offers various designs and quick move-ins. Here you will find houses with 1-5+ bedrooms and 1-4 baths. These communities are made up of town homes, two-story houses and ramblers (one story homes).

Southern Utah Home Builders - Going green? Southern Utah Home Builders offer green building resources. Workforce housing benefits are also available; offering affordable houses to fit household incomes (mostly under 30% of income).

Get moved into your new Utah home. Check out the St. George, Utah home builder links above for more details and to plan a visit to one of the communities. The information obtained was retrieved from the individual web sites of the home builder.

Builder For New Home

You're looking fondly at a new build "sample" house. It looks great, but what do you really know about the company behind that one façade? Buying a newly built home means you also invest in the builder, and not every company can be trusted to adhere to contractual specifications let alone structural codes.

If you've already found a new build or sample home that you like, step one is getting a list of the homes a specific builder claims to have constructed. Confirm that claim with the associated Town Building Department (some less reputable builders have been known to claim a property they never built!). If they offer references, by all means call them! Also, it's good to check and see if any other builders offer similar designs with features that you like more! Construction is a highly competitive industry in a lot of towns and cities, and you should always have more than one option. Three is best, complete with fully itemized bids for your lawyers review.

As with buying any home, know yourself and your family. Know what you want out of a home. Without this information, it's going to be nearly impossible to choose a builder. You want someone who offers flexibility that will personalize your space so it's not cookie-cutter inside (even if external features have similarities, as is often the case in gated communities etc.). Also find out what tracts of land the builder has available or if you have to find your own. Land costs can dramatically change the entire equation in a new build. The Home Builder's association in your region can help greatly with finding out what to expect in advance of all these discussions.

Beyond this, ask the builder how much money will be tied up in each step of the construction process, and what types of changes they're required to make if work isn't up to specification (i.e. You should not pay for their mistakes). Ask about a home warranty, and if one is available, licensure, and how they go about securing permits. Be aware that throughout this process you could end up dealing with any number of people There's a developer who finds land, building companies who put the walls up, a contractor who may be helping with any number of internal matters from plumbing to lighting.

Other good questions to ask of any potential builder include how long they've been part of your community (and how active they are), how experienced their personnel are, and what type of warranty and after-building services they offer. Take your time. Check the Better Business Bureau listings, and listen to people who have worked with or know the people behind the company. Choose accordingly!

New Homes Georgetown Texas - Building A Better Home

Georgetown is a growing city that has the real estate to fit each resident's needs. Located about twenty minutes from downtown Austin, Georgetown is a small city with developing real estate. Georgetown continues to benefit from the annual population increases in central Texas. This city has become popular for residents looking to avoid crowded town around the city like Pflugerville and Round Rock. Georgetown real estate ranges from apartments to ranch land to master planned communities. All of these home choices are available in and around the Georgetown area.

There are two master planned communities within Georgetown. One is a master planned active adult community that has strict age restrictions on home buyers in their community. This master planned community has private golf courses and fitness centers to make sure their residents are active adults. The other master planned community is a luxurious community with a private championship golf course and world class fitness facilities. Homes range well into the millions and can be as large as 7,000 sq. ft. This is a resort community that offers residents the best amenities to accompany their world class homes.

Town homes around downtown area of Georgetown are very popular. These homes located along Highway 29 and resemble a farm town community where mail men deliver mail to your doorstep each day. Most of the homes in this area were built in the 70's and 80's and provide home owners with a historic living situation. Many of these homes are owned or rented by Southwestern University students. Some of these town homes are smaller and college students benefit from the low cost, close to campus locations.

Apartments and condominiums have become popular in this area. The apartments in the area are located around the downtown area of Georgetown. Apartments in this area give residents a chance to live in a small town, and many tenants are college students. There is one condominium complex within Georgetown. This complex overlooks the San Gabriel River and gives residents the chance to enjoy the environment from their back landing.

Area neighborhoods give Georgetown residents the chance to live within communities and enjoy the communal atmosphere that neighborhoods have. There are many neighborhoods in the Georgetown area. All students are given the chance to attend the public school system and Georgetown High. Georgetown residents understand the history of the town, and the history of the people who built the town. This is why Georgetown has been able to keep its small town atmosphere as the city continues to grow.

New Homes For An Aging Population

Plans were unveiled by the Prime Minister to help the older population with their housing needs. This plan will help the older population benefit by receiving more comfortable housing, as well as more secure living arrangements. This will be accomplished by newer guidelines set for this specific purpose.

These new guidelines, which are a first to be outlined in the housing strategy anywhere in the world, have a goal to create housing that is "age-friendly." Under these guidelines, it will be possible for residents to stay in their own houses as long as possible, enabling them to be nearer their friends and family.

This new plan is to be in effect by the year 2013. Under the plan, new housing standards will be set. These will include wider doorways that will allow easier access for those residents who use a wheelchair. It will also allow for electrical sockets to be installed at convenient heights. The new plan aims at making it easier for senior citizens and the disabled to live a more comfortable and easier life while remaining in their own homes.

For many elderly and disabled persons, the benefits of using handymen allow them to stay in their homes. Handymen can come in and help around the home, by doing small repairs or odd jobs, or by performing general maintenance. According to the Prime Minister, this service will actually expand due to the increased funding towards handymen.

These plans are already in use and have benefited many people already. The Prime Minister met with some of those senior citizens who have already taken advantage of adapting their homes for an easier life. He met with them at a breakfast reception in Downing Street.

The main goal, according to Mr. Brown, is to keep homes safe. That way, an elderly person's home will be a familiar haven to them, rather than an "obstacle course" that needs to be taken care of every day. Using this strategy will go hand in hand with the current Government's commitment to their people. This commitment is to give their residents "more influence over their own lives as they grow older."

"This strategy sets out a package of measures that will enable more older people to live in high quality, warm environments that are suited to their needs - homes that help to make life easier, and to turn the challenges of aging into opportunities," according to Mr. Brown.

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears will be available to talk about the new plans that are in development. She will also be available to talk about other aspects and plans of the work that she does.

Secretary Hazel Blears handles many responsibilities in her job. These include the creation of communities that are both inclusive and safe, as well as helping the residents of the community have a much bigger say on issues concerning things happening locally. She also is in charge of the development of bigger and better houses in the neighborhood for everyone, and especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly population.

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