Homestead Oak Daily Buzz

Now Is the Time to Buy that New Home

2011-04-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

The news today has reports of people whose lives were ruined by owning more house than they could afford, and dire warnings that “housing is not a good investment.” No doubt both of these have been real and true and still yet they miss the point. Consumers who want an appropriate home and have the right reasons to buy are paralyzed with uncertainty by these reports so they wait to see what the housing market will do. They are more afraid of making a mistake than getting something they want, have prepared for and can afford well, those who aren’t afraid may find themselves grinning like the Cheshire cat a few years down the line because this is a great time to buy a new home. In a moment I will share a few excellent reasons why this is so.

Here are a few reasons why it is now a good time buy:

The underlying economy is coming around. We are beginning to see job growth and the early signs of a recovery in the economy across most of the country. There are a few localized markets where this isn’t true, such as Detroit, but for most of us the fundamentals look positive. Historically, recoveries are slow to disclose themselves t their beginnings and it isn’t until they have been documented I n retrospect that we see the optimum time to have bought in the cycle. I have studied the data from the past 50 years and this looks a lot like the beginning of the past five cycles.

Housing materials costs are still rising and will continue to do so. Waiting when costs are certain to increase is not a valid strategy. Cement, drywall, copper and many other materials are simply going to be more expensive in the future. In addition, all the materials that have petroleum content such as asphalt or plastics, or anything that must be shipped (virtually everything in a house) are going to be affected by oil price increases. To hold pricing, builders will have to shrink or simplify homes. What smart buyer wants that?

Land costs and entitlement processing costs are rising even faster than materials. This is a striking phenomenon across the country. Even with the lack of activity cities and counties raise their requirements, lots get smaller, densities increase, privacy dimishes and costs still rise. As Mark Twain observed over one hundred years ago, “Buy land, They ain’t makin’ any more of it!”

Housing prices won’t fall substantially even in the doldrums. If a buyer is waiting for a bargain, (except in localized markets where substantial overbuilding has occurred), they are usually disappointed, why? Because sellers will wait. They will hold out for a buyer at or near their asking price rather than cut price for a quicker sale. This is especially true with sellers who have waited through the worst of the correction and don’t need to move now, a fairly small portion of the homes for sale.

Transferring equity to a home of greater value means the potential gain on the bigger home is greater than the loss on the current home. Many buyers are moving to a home of greater value. Taking the hit on the lesser value home makes sense if they are armed with cash in a buyers market, as the immediate pain translates to long term gain.

Housing is cyclical. What is bottoming now will be strengthening at some future date. While none of us can predict the exact bottom of this cycle, many knowledgeable people feel we have passed it. What if we have another soft year? If you are in a home you love and comfortable with what you have chosen, just wait for it to start appreciating while you enjoy it. Isn’t that better than missing the bottom and more importantly, a perfect home for you? Warren Buffet, the Oracle of Omaha has made a fortune for his investors by believing in long term value proposition of our economy and buying business that are out of flavor, but solid, when they are undervalued. Doesn’t that same logic apply here?

Most of all; Buying now means a home for the right reasons! As my friend Bill Webb says, “The home is just the box that the gift comes in, not the gift.” Your home is a refuge, a gathering place, a place to create memories and celebrate the events that make up a lifetime. It is not an investment like a stock certificate. It is much more. It will increase in value over the long haul, so why not be where you really want to be? If you plan to be in your home for at least five years, timing is perfect: Selection is good, prices are moderate, interest rates are historically low and sellers are motivated to accommodate buyers.

Get going now… Its time to buy a home!

Homestead Oak Spring Decorating- Designer Tips to Freshen Up Your Home for Spring

2011-04-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

Add Soft Colors, Fresh Flowers, and Delicate Fabrics for Spring

A new spring season invites changes to your home with fresh spring decorating. Spring calls for delicate colors and soft fabrics. Read what well-known designers recommend to freshen up your home for Spring.

When asked about inexpensive changes to freshen up a bedroom or living room for Spring, we got lots of great suggestions. Which ones will work for your home?

· Use color and paint on walls, furniture, or trim. Use neutral ground but introduces aqua blues and spring greens. With outdoor colors coming inside, how about bring in a piece of outdoor furniture, too? It will bring in a new interesting texture.

· I love color and patterns. Take a clue from fashion catalogues and use the colors and patterns in your home. Avoid "pasty pales or deep dark drenched colors" and choose a mid tone. Use organic color to cheer up an uninteresting neutral space. Think of "Mother Nature" and go to the colors you see outside.

Use colorful patterned pillows on a "neutral chenille or canvas couch." Get rid of the fussy beads and fringe. "Let color and pattern do the talking... a crazy hot pink, magenta, marigold and cobalt madras plaid.... a chartreuse, plum and teal floral. These bold ingredients distract the eye." Revive a boring old sofa.

· Use paint it's cheap, you can do the job yourself, and it creates a major change. I suggest that you "try a color you've never tried before -- kiwi green or a pale violet -- something you've always wanted to try. A couple of gallons of paint is a very inexpensive experiment."

· "Lighten up!" That means colors, fabrics, and flow. Everything should be clean and refreshing, light and tranquil. Choose sheer fabrics, linens, and open weave textiles. Move from ceramic to crystal and glass, either contemporary or traditional.

And, "nothing says Spring more than fresh flowers. Make sure to be consistent with creating arrangements. Choose a color scheme, like all white, instead of mixing bouquets, use the same type flower in one glass container with a beautiful white satin or grosgrain ribbon wrapped around it."

Without spending much money, you can give a fresh spring look to your home. What a lovely thought!

Homestead Oak - 8 Reasons Why Now Might be the Best Time Ever to Build a New Home

2011-04-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

8 Reasons Why Now Might be the Best Time Ever to Build a New Home- By Homestead Oak, Inc.

Come visit the Washington by Pennwest located at our Fairview Lot location. http://www.homesteadoak.com/

I should have brought stock in Google when it was first released. I knew it then, but I didn’t act. I was scared off by the nay-Sayers in the media. I hesitated, and the ground floor opportunity didn’t wait. Within a year, Google’s stock was up 800%

Today, the opportunity to build a new home is similar to Google’s initial stock offering an excellent investment and a short window of opportunity.

What… housing? A good investment? Is this a joke?

It’s no secret that the housing industry has been in a downward spiral for the past five years. Housing prices have fallen in most markets – some up to 40% or more from their 2005 values. Banks and mortgage companies that extended themselves with bad loans and unrealistic lending programs have restricted their credit standards, gotten out of the mortgage arena, or gone out of business. And, builders and contractors who were too busy to return phone calls are now looking for work, and grateful if they get it.

It’s scary we know. But, these very same factors make now an excellent time for those that can do so to act on building their dream home. Here are eight solid reasons, as expressed by housing expert, Ross Robbins, why those who take action now will save thousands and the construction of their new home, and what to do to take advantage of these favorable – that’s right, favorable – market conditions.

1.     Housing is cyclical.
This period from 1987 – 2005 was one of the strongest housing booms since WWII. By 2004, it became obvious to many that housing starts were growing at unsustainable levels. Land, materials, and home prices were escalating and the term ‘housing bubble’ was coined to describe the frightening pace at which new homes were being built. Like all bubbles, everyone knew it couldn’t last forever, but the economy had become so dependent upon the housing sector that it was hard to ease it back gradually. The “pop” came in late 2005 and by 2006 huge inventories began to erode builder profits and housing values began to fall. Just like 20 years before.

Historically, housing ‘booms’ last 8-12 years. This one lasted 18 years. But these cycles typically run ‘hot’ for about 10 years, then ‘cool’ for 3-4 years. Then cycle starts again.

Today new home inventories are being absorbed and markets are stabilizing. Projections are that by mid-2011 the market will start heating up again as a new up-cycle begins. In fact, in some areas this has already begun. That growth, just like that of past upturns, will mean a reinvigoration of the market… and rising costs to go with it.

2.     Interest rates are at historic lows
As this is being written, 30 year-fixed rates are under 5% and 15-year rates are well below that number. Those are the lowest rates in the past 40 years. True credit is tighter than it was five years ago, but that only affects those with marginal credit. The vast majority of home buyers will not be impacted by more stringent lending standards. Low mortgage rates, combined with the lowest material and land costs we’re never likely to see, mean that right now you can build more house for the money than you will when the housing market recovers.

3.     Material costs are rising, and will continue to do so.
Higher fuel costs are being applied to building materials, as they are to just about everything. However, many building materials are very energy-intensive to produce and so might be more impacted than most consumer goods. The largest cost in producing drywall, for example, is the energy to fire the kilns to dry it. Do you see energy costs going down in the near future? Neither do I.

Now, compare that with the fact that homes being built today are 30% - 50% more energy efficient than older homes, even those built 5 years ago. As energy costs go up, a new home will become even more valuable in energy savings.

4.     Builders, contractors and tradesmen are available
When housing is strong (and it will be again soon) there is a waiting list for contractors. At the height of the housing boom, one of the most discussed topics at builder meetings was the fact that fewer people were entering the trades and builders were having difficulties hiring enough experiences people to form full crews. Today, there is a ‘window of opportunity.’ When crews are available without long waits, homes are built and finished in less time, requiring less interest on construction loans. This favorable situation is temporary – cyclical, remember?

5.     Land is available… while it lasts.
In boom times, bigger builders and developers monopolize the best land and lots, driving up costs and leaving scattered-site builders and home buyers to fight over their leftovers. Now, the large-volume builders are bogged down with excess inventories (homes they built and have all their cash tied up in,) and many aren’t liquid enough to make land investments. That means that lot prices are about as low as they will be, and the choice and availability are at their best.

6.     Housing demand will soon outstrip existing inventory, and is on the rise.
That might be the biggest incentive to act now to build. New families are being formed in the US at a record pace – far faster than new homes are being built to accommodate them. It seems nobody is looking ahead. By the end of this decade it is projected that there will be a need for nearly 2 million new homes per year to handle the population growth in this country. The housing industry has never produced homes at that rat, and with the labor issues that were felt during the past housing boom, it is questionable whether those quotas can be filled.

Today, were on the brink of the next wave in housing. It will start as a trickle, but will gain momentum as the demand for new, energy efficient and sustainable homes continues to grow. When it happens (and no one is sure exactly when it will happen, just that it will) the door will close on individuals who are waiting for the media to give them the ‘all clear’ housing costs will continue to rise, labor shortages will create long delays, interest rates will rise to try to control inflation, and homes will become less and less affordable.

What all this means is that buyers who sell their homes today might get 8%-10% less than they would have gotten back in 2005, but the cost of new construction is currently down by nearly 20% from those same levels (but already climbing.) Sure, when the market recovers existing homes will regain their previous value, but they won’t keep up with the rising costs of new construction.

7.     Your needs have changed… and continue to change.
From the mid-1990s through 2005, the theme of the housing industry was ‘bigger is better’ Today, as the economy has shrunk back and society in general is taking a more sensible approach to all products, from automobiles to appliances, that is no longer the case. Just as we’ve given up our Hummers and SUVs for more practical and efficient vehicles, the ‘Mc Mansions’ of the past decade no longer fit the needs of socially-and environmentally-friendly families.

As mentioned, homes built today are much more energy efficient than those built even a few years ago. But that’s not all new ‘smart home’ innovations make today’s homes more livable and comfortable. Wireless technology has changed the way we live, and current homes that incorporate charging stations, media centers and home offices spaces have adapted to fit a new set of requirements. And, thoughtfully laid-out floor plans are actually giving more livability and comfort in less space.

8.     The sooner you build; the sooner you’ll enjoy your new home.
This may seem overly simplistic, but so many people are waiting for ‘permission’ from the media and others that they are overlooking one of the fundamentals reasons for building a new home: lifestyle. Today’s homes, more than at any time in the past, are extensions of how we live and who we are. For many of us, putting off the decision to build is tantamount to putting our lives on hold. And for those with the means and circumstances to move forward, acting now to build will return the highest value, financially and emotionally.
These points discussed here are common knowledge and common sense. No, there are no guarantees that the market will recover on schedule, or that some unforeseen event won’t cause another recession next year, or that there won’t be an energy crisis, another terrorist attack, floods in the Midwest or another hurricane. We don’t know what the future holds, other than that housing is historically cyclical, that families are forming faster than houses are being built, that energy costs will never go back down, and that the term ‘affordable housing’ may be something our children only read about.

And that, if you want to realize your dream of owning a new home, there may never be a better time to act on that dream than right now.

Spring is the Air....Well we Hope!

2011-04-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Finally some sun...then rain, and ugh snow...What can you do with this weather?

How about Home and Garden shows? Home Improvement Magazines, garden books? These are great inspirations to help us get through this moody weather. Home and Garden Shows are my favorite, I have to say that I am sucker for them. When you are thinking about your new home, it’s the perfect place to window shop, to dream a little. And to get inspired. It’s also a great place to find out your style, find your price point.

This years’ home shows have been full of great new products. And the word “Green” is everywhere and on everything. Why? Simply, it saves you money. And with the way the economy is, they will do anything to keep your business. Some may feel that its just a sales gimmick. But fact is the Green movement is here and here to stay. The Green movement has made companies take a second look at their products. They have become more aware of their use on materials and resources and going back to basics, to make it healthier. Innovation is what makes the green movement work, and it’s great to see companies think outside the box. And you the consumer benefit from it.

Big things at the home show were Solar panels, Wind turbines, which yes is a great investment but do your research. Also product materials that last longer. Ceramic Roofing, recycled material for decking. Quality products. I am happy to see that.

So take the time to comparison shop, read the back grounds to the product. Always make sure that the company is what they say, look for seals, labels, and accreditations. Ask for testimonials, locations that you can visit. As I went out to look, I have found some great companies that I can’t wait to share with you. I will be doing the some of the research for you and post links for you to check out. So happy looking and let me know what you find!

Julie McClymonds

Homestead Oak - Heart Felt Thank You Letter from Mona and Duke

2011-04-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

Duke and I are ordinary people who had a heart for children and I believe we have been a willing vessel for God to use. We have been so honored to have been chosen to care for the children sent to us over the years, we never have gone to an agency or had to look around to adopt or take in a child. It has always been by word of mouth and God’s choice to send and entrust to us his children. 52 years ago the scripture we received was in Leviticus 19:34 God says the stranger that dwells among you shall be one such as born to you and you shall love them as you love your own. We have been faithful to do so and God has blessed the children as they go into the world to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others. We still have 3 young ones at home, ages 7, 11, and 12. We are now 75 and 73, HELLO, how did that happen? The years of joy have flown by and we give honor to God for He alone gives us health, strength, provisions, love and joy to do the work He willed us to do.

Our hearts are even more burdened for children as the world has become such a hard place in which to survive. It is so important to love your children and teach them to love others and teach them how they can make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others. Our world needs peace, love and joy which come from God within our selves. In our homes we need to build our children up in love for they face tough times in their schools and in this world so always let them know its not what you do but who you are. “You are loved”, tell them every day. Yes, we have raised some 250 children, adopted many, not always as patient as we would have liked to be or could have done a lot of things different maybe, but we had a motto that we loved to give to the children:

“Not flesh of my flesh,

Nor bone of my bone

But still miraculously my own.

Never forget for a minute,

That you did not grow under my heart,

But in it.”

We are so humbled by Homestead Oak in blessing us we thank you and we ray God’s blessing to you as God says in His word In Luke 6:38 “Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”

Thank you again In His love and ours,

Duke and Mona

& all God’s children

Why Modular Homes Make Sense

2011-03-31T09:26:00.000-07:00

Factory-built homes offer all the amenities of traditionally built homes, often at reduced cost and increased quality. Modular homes are like the hybrid car of the house-building industry. They save money, they make sense, but they haven’t caught on yet. General misconceptions keep many from considering going modular, and the confusion between modular homes and manufactured (mobile) homes has led to regulations and restrictions being placed by towns that have new home builders scared into going the traditional route. But the word is getting out. It turns out modular homes are in many ways superior to stick-built homes, and, once assembled, cannot be distinguished from their traditionally built counterpart.

What is a modular home?

“There is no such thing as a modular home,” states Dave boniello, vice President of Sales and Marketing at Simplex Industries, a Pennsylvania-based modular home manufacturer. It is a matter of the literal meaning of the word modular, which insinuates a standardized unit or repeatedly used structural component. “The modular homes industry uses a system-built technology,” Boniello explains. “The homes are built in a factory in a controlled environment. They are built in a system.”

Simply put, a modular home is one that is built in a factory, usually in assembly-line fashion, and then transported to a site in large units. These units are then lifted from the transport by crane and rested on a pre-built foundation and fastened together. The entire process takes a fraction of the time it takes to build a house on-site, and the finished product can cost a good deal less.

Customize, customize, customize

"There is nothing you cannot do with a modular home.” So says Harvey, the assistant director of government affairs with the modular building system association. Harvey, who splits his time between apprising association member of any new industry regulations and seeking new ways to educate the public on the benefits of modular homes, is a firm believer in the industry he represents. “Anything you want in a modular home, you can have.”

The process of building a modular home

Once a potential homeowner has decided to go with a modular home, there are a few steps to take that are relatively consistent regardless of which modular home building company one is working with.

First a homeowner must select a modular home manufacturer. The majority of manufacturers are located on the east coast and some are very specific as to what states they will ship their homes. Since it is usually necessary to include a local builder or developer in the process it may be helpful to consult with this party for advice on manufacturers. Many local developers have established relationships with certain manufacturers, so this is a good place to start.

After a local developer and manufacturer have been decided on, the homeowner must choose a floor plan and select from a wide range of options. When these decisions have been made and an initial contract is signed, the manufacturer’s engineering staff overlooks the plans and the factory can go to work on constructing the home.

Once the manufacturer has begun building the home in the factory, it is usually just a matter of weeks before the units are ready for transport. As the work in the factory is taking place, on-site construction of the home’s foundation by the local builder is being done to ready the site for arrival of the home. “Because the foundation is being laid on-site as the home is being built in the factory, the overall construction time is dramatically reduced.” Says Harvey.

The modular home is then shipped to the site on flatbed trucks. The units are then placed by crane onto the foundation, and the entire home is fastened together. At this point, the amount of time until the homeowner can move in depends on a number of things. “Some customers want to put on custom trims, or finish the basement.” Says Boniello. There are plumbing and electrical tie-ins to address as well. Completion time after the units have been placed can be anywhere from a couple weeks for simple designs to 90 days for complex custom jobs. The average completion time from initial order to move-in is roughly three months, compared to an average completion time of about six months to a year for a site-built home.

Built-in strengths

While this may seem a matter of opinion, there are a few areas in which modular homes have stick-built homes at-large beat. “Modular homes,” Harvey declares, “are built with 20 to 30 percent more materials than typical stick-built homes because they have to withstand the transport from the factory to the site.” In a FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) study following the Hurricane Andrew in 1992, it was found that wood-frame modular homes in hard-hit Dade County, Florida, stood up to the devastating winds better than stick-built homes. The finding states: “Overall, relatively minimal structural damage was noted in modular housing” the report also points out that the construction method of modular homes” provided an inherently rigid system that performed much better than conventional residential framing.” The use of more materials also equals greater energy efficiency – another money-saver.

Controlling costs

Modular homes are built in factory. This is a controlled environment that is unaffected by variables that plague site-built homes, such as poor weather and theft or vandalism. Not only does this cut down on construction time (which saves money) it can lead to a better product. A quality modular home is assembled using top-shelf products that can be purchased by the modular home manufacturer from suppliers in large quantities at reduced costs. “We’re not ashamed of the products we use.” “We can guarantee brand names. Site-builders use what’s on-hand…what’s available. They don’t have a Purchasing Department who can source products like we can.”

Modular homes are built to the state and local regulations of wherever the home is to be transported. In order to assure that each home passes inspection, every manufacturer’s factory has third-party inspection. This means every step of the home’s construction is reviewed and checked by inspectors who are up-to-date on the state and local codes of the home’s final destination. “Our homes do not leave the factory until they meet or exceed state code.

Purchasing a modular home can save money. While it is impossible to affix an exact figure, the savings can be anywhere from 5 to 25 percent over building traditionally. Right now the modular home industry accounts for 7 to 8 percent of all new home sales. But that number is on the increase as the public becomes more educated on the superior qualities of the modular home. “Modular housing is coming into its own” The future outlook is very strong.

Pennwest Quality Homes by Edith Metts

2011-03-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Eddie started as a receptionist in 1991 at Astro Homes. She then moved onto sales secretary then to sales coordinator and assistant manager of the service department. In 1999, moved to the retail side of sales and became General Manager of QC Home Center in Shippenville.

As luck would have it she joined the Pennwest family in April 2010. She believes Pennwest Homes has the top kitchens as far as layout design and quality in the entire industry.

As homes are her passion she has provided so many homes to so many people through the years. She advocates the Pennwest series of homes as being the “forerunner of home manufacturing in her mind”. “What makes this a winning product is not only the finished product and the visual eye appealing effect but also the quality.” By putting those together it creates a top quality home. You can find these quality Pennwest homes at Homestead Oak in Meadville and Fairview.

Edith Metts

Regional Sales Manager

Pennwest Homes

Introducing Mona's Story - A Story of a Mother's Love

2011-03-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

Conneaut Lake is privileged to be the hometown of two underground Superstars --Duke and Mona Opperman--who have managed to raise over 250 children without benefit of grants or state funding. At one time, when they lived in Ben Avon a Pittsburgh suburb, they had taken in 24 children. My interview with Mona was a reality life lesson in how God can personally move in people’s lives.

Mona told me she desperately wanted to escape her home life as a teenager. Her mother had had six husbands and Mona admitted to being rebellious, skipping school and dipping into activities typical of other hurt and rejected children. Marriage offered a legitimate pathway of escape and so she said she prayed for a husband (without personally knowing the Lord or even being convinced that God would hear her). However...shortly thereafter she met Duke Opperman at a dance; they had two dates and he bought her an engagement ring. They were married three months later .in 1958. Two months after that she found out she was pregnant with their first child.

“When I went to Allegheny General Hospital to have the baby,” Mona told me, “there was a girl there who was also in labor, was having complications, and had no family. Little did I know that this woman would be used as the catalyst in the start of our ministry. The nurse ran an idea by the mother and she agreed, so the nurse asked if I would take the other woman’s baby home also. Duke and I had had our baby boy, David—this baby was a boy also; therefore, we actually ended up bringing home a set of twins!

“We returned him to the mother after about three months when she recovered. But when our son was about five months old the woman called and said her brother had gone to jail, had a little girl named Frieda and asked if we would take her. There were no courts involved back then and we had this little one for about a year when I found out I was pregnant again.

“This baby girl was full term and shockingly our little Faith was stillborn January 15^th of 1961. Reeling from the tragedy of this, I really felt I was having a nervous breakdown as I was told I wouldn’t have anymore babies by birth. I can remember desperately searching through that period of time. I would sleep with my head on an open Bible, just begging God to reveal Himself to me. And...I started asking for a blonde haired, blue-eyed baby girl. I said, ‘Please Lord...please Lord send me one.’ And I didn’t know anything about adoption back then. But when my nerves got so bad, Duke suggested that maybe I needed to do something I enjoyed. So I enrolled in nursing at Bellevue Suburban Hospital.

“Two weeks before graduation I was working with patients on the third floor of the hospital when the pay phone started ringing. A cleaning lady answered it. She turned around and yelled, ‘Is there an Opperman here?’ I answered, ‘I’m Opperman’ and she handed me the ‘phone. When I answered a man’s voice came on the line. His exact words were, ‘Would you be interested in a blonde haired, blue-eyed baby girl?’ The first thing I could think of was, Is this black market? What’s going on? Those were the precise words I’d said in my prayers! He explained that his name was Albert Liddle and he was a lawyer. He said we could pick the baby up at his home the following day. She was just two days old.

“Did he explain any of the circumstances?” I asked Mona.

“He told me nothing; however, I went to my supervisor and told her I had to quit. She told me I couldn’t as it was two weeks before graduation, but I said, ‘I have to. I’m getting a baby girl!’ Actually, that could have blown up in my face as I really didn’t know anything except that the attorney had used the exact words that had been in my prayer and basically I was trusting God. So, the following day we went to the attorney’s house. We named the precious baby girl Amy, which means ‘beloved’ and later we formally adopted her.”

“But...did you ask him how he knew about you—how he got the number of the pay phone?” I asked.

“Nope. We never did. We just figured it had to be God so we never questioned it. When Amy was about a year old Duke and I began to go to Holy Family Institute, an orphanage. We took our own children to socialize, baked cookies, played ball and were just strangely attracted to the orphans never dreaming we were in the beginning stages of what the Lord had planned for our own lives. One of the nuns asked us if we’d be interested in 3 of the sibling children with the possibility of adoption. Their mother was deceased and the father needed help with them. We had the girl, age 10 and two boys ages 8 and 6 for a year until the father remarried so we had to return them to their own family.

. “At the time we had no idea what the Lord had in store for us and it was heart-wrenching to give them up. But as time went on and this situation presented itself time and again, we realized we were a haven of rest for children until their parents were willing and able to take them back. But it was devastating to release them each time and I began to pray again—this time for a brown haired, brown-eyed boy. I have to admit at that point in time I certainly knew God was real, but had never accepted Him personally as my savior.

“About 2 months later I got a call again from the attorney, Mr. Liddle. He said that there was a young girl expecting a baby and she wanted to become a nun, so therefore she couldn’t take care of the baby. He said she would be due in 2 months. Were we interested? It looked like God was using him again so, of course, we told him ‘yes’. At the end of 2 months he called again and told us, ‘You have a baby boy...and he has brown eyes and brown hair.’ We named him ‘Kevin’—our Kevin from heaven.”

So the attorney, Albert Liddle, had been used a second time to fulfill Mona’s answer to prayer. And by this time word had began to spread by mouth about the Opperman’s ministry to children. Judges knew of them and referred children, people just called, sometimes from California and across the country. I couldn’t fathom how she and Duke could have managed (not just financially when not accepting state funding for their endeavor, but in patience, love and all the other resources that would take. I found out later that Duke worked 3 jobs).

Mona continued, “Early on, Duke and I found a verse in the Bible that we felt was a calling for our life. It was Leviticus 19:34 that says, ‘The stranger that dwells among you shall be one such as born to you and you shall love them as your own.’”

I shook my head in dismay. “So, did you have to keep moving to bigger and bigger houses?”

She giggled like a small child herself, “No, we lived in a three bedroom house on Forest Avenue in Ben Avon and when the Lord told us we needed to expand, we first put three bedrooms in the attic, we divided a large bedroom on the second floor, and ended up making 6 bedrooms in the basement. The final tally was 13 bedrooms. At that time we had 12 boys and 12 girls—and 1 bathroom!”

“How in the world did you manage that?” I couldn’t imagine.

“Organization! It was very regimented and scheduled. The boys went first because they were quicker and then the girls had their turn. It was amazing how God always kept order. However, I have to tell you that after the first six children I began having anxiety attacks. I never left my home for 11 years. I couldn’t answer the door; I could only interact with the kids because they weren’t my problem. It was something within me. One day a neighbor invited me to go to a Bible study, but I would always say, ‘No, I can’t.’ Finally she asked, ‘Would you be honest with me? Is there a problem?’ She kept pressuring me and so I told her about the anxiety attacks. She said, ‘We will never, ever judge you. If you want to leave you can leave.’ And then I told her...I said, ‘But I can’t read.’ Sandy, I was 37 years old before I read my first book,” she told me.

“Why, Mona?” I could scarcely believe what she was saying.

She looked out through the picture window of her home as though a movie screen of the past scrolled slowly by. “I told you I was an extremely rebellious child. One year I only attended 17 days of school. So, I went to the Bible study that day and really liked what I was hearing. That day I knelt down and accepted the Lord, but I still continued with my anxiety. I argued with God and bargained with Him about it. I told Him, ‘I’ve got these children and a job to do, Lord, and then He loudly spoke to my heart saying, ‘No! My power works best in weak people!’ It was that night that I declared, ‘Though He slay me, still will I serve Him.’ That’s when the determination set in.

“The women at the Bible study told me about the Holy Spirit and so I started praying for that experience. One night it was as though an electricity surged through my body and the Lord assured me I had received the gift of the Holy Spirit. I picked up the King James Bible and devoured it. He taught me to read—right on the spot! From that point forward everything dramatically changed—no more anxiety. In fact, I spoke at Aglow, was on The 700 Club, I was on Channel 40, Channel 60 out of Ohio...it just went on and on. And Sandy, there were probably only 10 or 12 children who came into our home out of the 250 that didn’t accept Christ as their savior. Some that are now ministers and youth leaders.” I remembered that for the Opperman’s 50^th wedding anniversary over 70 of those now scattered children had returned to watch them renew their wedding vows and celebrate.

As I packed up my tape recorder, pens and pad preparing to leave, I was arrested by a striking thought. Mona had confessed to not knowing the Lord personally, but prayed for a blonde haired, blue-eyed girl and miraculously got her; prayed for a brown haired, brown-eyed baby boy and miraculously had gotten him. She had lost a precious stillborn child—but God had given her 250 more. Even before she was able to read and know that the Bible states we should minister to orphans, before she had met Christ personally, He knew her and was working in her life. As I walked to my car words echoed to the cadence of my feet, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew and approved of you and before you were born I separated and set you apart...” I looked it up when I got home—it was Jeremiah 1:5 and not only did it apply to Mona, but to every single child she and Duke had raised!

Story by Sandra Ghost

http://www.sandraghost.info/

Radiant Floor Heating

2011-03-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

The best heating system a house can have is the one you don't realize is there. No radiators clanking in the night. No vents whooshing like a jet preparing for takeoff. No dust-spewing ductwork to run up your allergists' bills. Just an even blanket of heat, right where you want it.

That's the appeal of radiant floor heating, says This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, who has long been a fan. "It's truly invisible," he says. But a radiant floor system has more than just aesthetics going for it. It's also a highly efficient way to heat a house, increasing comfort as it reduces energy costs.

In a radiant setup, the warmth is supplied by hot-water tubes or electric wires buried underneath the floor. As the invisible waves of thermal radiation rise from below, they warm up any objects they strike, which radiate that captured heat in turn. Though the air temperature remains relatively constant, you stay comfortable because the surrounding surfaces aren't stealing warmth from your body.

Contrast that with what happens in a conventional forced-air heating system, the kind found in most American homes. Air blows out of the registers at a well-baked 120 degrees, rises to the top of the room where it quickly sheds heat, then drops back down as it cools. The air in the room becomes uncomfortably stratified: Your head can be bathed in warmth while your toes lie in the frozen zone. Then there's the problem of cycling. "You turn on the furnace, it quickly takes you to 68 or 70, and then shuts off," says Richard. The result is a phenomenon he calls "the cold 70," which is what you feel right after the hot air stops pumping from the registers. Those jarring ups and downs are absent with radiant floors, which may reach 85 degrees, tops, on a frigid day. The warm air still rises, but it does so evenly over the entire floor, so the coolest air stays up at the ceiling. "You're heating where the people are," Richard says.

There are two basic ways to supply this gentle, even warmth: hot water or electricity. Electric radiant, which uses zigzagging loops of resistance wire, is generally retrofitted to a single room, such as a bathroom or kitchen. (See "The Floor Electric," above.) Hot-water "hydronic" systems—the most popular and cost effective way to heat an entire house—circulate water from a boiler or water heater through loops of 1/2-inch polyethylene tubing. The flexible tubes can be installed in a variety of ways: on top of the subfloor in grooved panels or snap-in grids; clipped into aluminum strips on the underside of the floor; or embedded in poured concrete. Once the system is in place, you can cover it with most types of finish flooring, including hardwood and tile. Carpet, however, can be tricky, especially if it has thick padding underneath. "If the floor is too well insulated, radiant heating really doesn't make sense," Richard says. "It's like putting a sweater over a radiator."
Hot-water radiant costs more to install than other types of heating systems—from $6 to $15 per square foot depending on the method, whether you're starting from scratch or retrofitting, and where you live. (New builds where the tubes are buried in concrete slab tend to be the least expensive). And you'll still need a separate air-conditioning system for cooling. But if the price tag puts you off, consider this: Once it's up and running, a radiant system can be up to 30 percent more efficient than forced-air heating, depending on how well insulated a house is. And there's no comparison when it comes to comfort. In that category, radiant always wins, feet down.

See for Yourself - Quality Stunning Homes by Commodore

2011-03-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

What will the interior of my Commodore Home look like?

How will my new home be constructed?

Feature: 2x10 floor joists-graded lumber, built 16" on center.

Benefit: Strong floor - 16" on center aligns floor joints and wall studs for increased strength. Graded lumber has lower moisture content and fewer knots. Lower moisture helps eliminate warping and fewer knots means stronger lumber.

Feature: 2x10's around each half of floor. (4) 2x10 at the center line.

Benefit: Greater strength and stability, which is important when installed over a basement or crawl space.

Feature: Sewer drains, water lines, and insulated heat ducts installed in the floor

Benefit: Insulated ducts are whisper quiet with no heat loss. Eliminates the cost of installing drains, water lines, and duct systems.

Feature: 3/4" tongue and groove floor

Benefit: A 3/4" tongue and groove floor is one the strongest, most durable decking materials available. It creates and even floor and helps eliminate floor squeaks.

Feature: Energy Star, 90% High Efficiency Furnace with water heater (Both installed)

Benefit: High efficiency furnace lowers heating costs and eliminates the furnace door grill. There is no cost to install a heating system or water heater & this speed completion time.

Feature: 2x6 sidewalls w/ R-19 Insulation

Benefit: 2x6 walls are stronger and have more depth than a 2x4 wall and allow increased insulation. (R-19 instead of R-11

Feature: All exterior walls wrapped in O.S.B. sheathing and weather wrap.

Benefit: O.S.B. increases the structural strength of the home and weather wrap helps eliminate air infiltration.

Feature: 2x4 marriage wall & interior walls are built 16" on center (Exception is the Grandville-which has 2x4 studs, on 24" centers. The marriage wall has 2x4's built 16" on center.)

Benefit: Superior to 2x3 studs because 2x4 studs add an extra inch of support

Feature: 3 studs over all doors and widows. Note: The extra studs at side of window.

Benefit: Creates and very strong support header and an extra strong window opening.

Feature: Triple laminated LVL beams over all patio doors and large window openings.

Benefit: LVL beams are 2.5 times stronger than regular lumber. This creates a superior frame for patio door and larger openings.

Exciting Exteriors and Exceptional Curb Appeal

Homestead Oak is Going Green Irene!

2011-03-17T05:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of St. Patrick's Day Homestead Oak is going

Green Irene!

Hello! My name is Julie McClymonds, and I am the Local Eco-consultant for Meadville and surrounding areas. Denise Peters of Homestead asked me to come on the blog to talk about Going Green in your home. I am very excited to be here!

Many of you are investing in your homes, and selecting your options for your dream home. And wow are there a lot of options! When you go to the paint store thinking; okay I’m going to get a gallon of white paint. You quickly realize that there is no such thing as a gallon of white paint, and you end up coming home with BeachFoam white with an eggshell finish. That was paint for just one room!

I know that feeling happens with every decision we make in our homes and it can be overwhelming, but important. As you have been looking and shopping around for your best options I bet you have seen another option; the word green, eco-friendly, energy star. What is with it? Is that for me? Will it really save me money? Just another option to think about.

As I started in explore the Environmental Movement and making choices for our own home in Meadville, I found that just the smallest changes can make a big difference. It can really make a big impact on your home environment, your wallet, and the planet. It’s going back to the basics and making things smarter, easier and healthier. I have made it my passion to share it with others. When you are building your dream home that is what you want. It’s your future. And going green is about our future.

Many feel that going green is a life style change....donate everything, pile into a Hybrid and eat granola. Which for some, that may be their shade of green but not for most. I want to help you find your shade of green by showing you eco-friendly options, what is best for you and what will help you get the most out of your home and investment. I will share products, information and support you so that we all can make a better future for all. Thank you and I look forward to meeting you.

www.greenirene.com/northwestpa

"Welcome Home" by Homestead Oak

2011-03-15T08:58:00.000-07:00

It is our pleasure to bring to you the story of James and Jean Martin current owner’s and Jean’s parents ; Jim and Janice Gwin who founded Homestead Oak, Inc. in 1989. Fast forward 22 years later and even though Jim and Janice Gwin are no longer with us their spirit lives on through Jim and Jean Martin and their staff of caring Home Consultants at Homestead Oak. They continue to help people in their community attain the American Dream – to own a home.

Together they bring us a sense of community through various events held throughout the year such as the Easter Egg Hunt coming up on April 23^rd at noon , a Craft Show featuring local artisan’s on May 21^st to be held on the sprawling lawn at Homestead Oak in Meadville, then followed by a Classic Car Cruise in on July 15^th then to top off the year with the 11^th Annual “Festival of Trees” showcasing and raising funds for more than 16 Charitable Organizations from November 25^th and runs through December 16^th. They are proud to say the Festival of Trees has raised over $70,000 in it’s previous 10 year history for these local charities and is the largest fundraising event in Crawford County. So the folks at Homestead Oak are not shy in putting their best foot forward for the Community in hosting these wonderful heartfelt events. We are also the proud sponsor of the Lake Erie Speedway race season for 2011.

The driving force, along with providing quality affordable housing, and an affordable construction alternative, are the basis of which the company was formed, and still stands as the company’s mission statement today.

What is new at Homestead Oak you might ask? Well how about “8” new lot model manufactured and modular homes between our Fairview and Meadville locations for 2011 which continue to arrive as quickly as they are being built inside the state of the art factories right here in Pennsylvania. We are proud to offer homes that are built locally. We showcase Pennwest and Commodore homes bringing you a value that is second to none in these homes.

While modular homes are built in a factory setting; they are built to the same exact code to which a contractor would build. The only difference is that the homes are built in sections in a controlled environment and brought to your property and put together in sections. You can see a portion of a set on You Tube. Search for “Homestead Oak” then find the “Bergin Set” to watch the crane in action.

You can find out more information about the various quality affordable homes being offered by Homestead Oak at www.homesteadoak.com or visit us on Facebook.

Are You Ready to Begin Planning for a New Home?

2011-03-07T07:54:00.000-08:00

See Yourself as a Lender Will

When dealing with lenders, you have to be organized. You can save yourself a lot of wasted time and energy if you learn to look at yourself as a lender would.

Lenders will look at two basic numbers in deciding how much you can afford to borrow. Keep in mind: Once you know how much you can borrow you'll also know the price range of houses to look at.

What a lender inspects
This is where the paper pile begins! Your monthly housing costs, which include mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance; and, your total debt, which includes monthly housing costs - plus any long-term debts like a student loan, car loan, credit cards or other installment debt.

Understand basic borrower guidelines
They aren't too difficult... The lending guideline is that you should spend no more than 28% of your monthly gross income (before taxes) on housing expense. That can include business income, disability or retirement benefits, alimony, child support, etc.

Also, your total monthly debt payment, including housing and other long-term debts, should be no higher than 36% of your monthly gross income.

Check your credit rating
This is essential! A good credit report is an important part of your financial profile. Before you begin the process of applying for a mortgage loan be sure that you review your most recent credit report.

Be certain all of the information included in it is accurate.

Errors or misinformation in your credit history could have a negative impact on your chances for the best loan and interest rate.

The bottom line about lenders?
Lenders know that every borrower is different, and no lender expects you to be perfect. Their job is to lend money, so if they can make a home mortgage loan work for you, they will.

When NOT to buy
There are times when you should just walk away. If you've had some past financial problems, it's not the end of the road; you just need to fix them before you try to purchase a home. Even if you've gone through bankruptcy, all you need is time to handle your debts and repair your credit history. It may take a year or two to fine-tune your financial profile, but it's well worth it.

Perhaps your credit picture is not as black as the bankruptcy scenario but not picture perfect, either.

How much can you qualify for? With stable employment and income, you should be able to qualify for a mortgage loan worth almost twice your annual income. By taking time to improve your credit rating, you could raise that figure substantially.

More Single Women Buy Homes Than Ever Before - What Do Single Women Want?

2011-03-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

· More than one in five home buyers is a single woman.

· Twice as many unmarried women are buying homes than single men.

· Single women make up more than one-third of the growth in real estate ownership since 1994.

Top Three Reasons Unmarried / Single Women Buy a Home

1. Strong desire to own her own home.

2. Need more space or want smaller home.

3. Relocate closer to job, school or family.

Real Women Who Buy Real Homes

Women home buyers come in all sizes, shapes and ages. They are divorced, never married, separated, widowed; some have children, others live with friends or partners and many live alone.

Trends for Single Women Home Buyers

· 3 out of 4 women spend less than $200,000.

· Prefer 2 bedrooms or more.

· Less likely to choose new construction.

· Buy in city over suburban areas.

· Will compromise size & cost to get other amenities.

· Will not compromise on location or quality of neighborhood.

· Prefer condominiums with well run homeowner association over single family homes.

· Smaller spaces are acceptable.

· Desire security and / or gated access.

· Like to engage in social interaction with neighbors.

· Want close proximity to stores, shopping and fitness centers.

Three Rules for Adding White Detail to Any Room in Your Home by Nate Berkus

2011-02-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

Afraid of decorating with white and think it only belongs on the walls? Don't be afraid to go white in the home! Follow these simple rules to incorporating white into your space.

Know Your Whites
When you picture white, a stark white comes to mind first. But take a look at any paint chart and you'll find that white has several variations and shades. For a clean, light, and bright feel in the bathroom or kitchen, go with a bright white. For a warmer feel in a living room or bedroom, use a muted whites, creams and greys. You can also mix and match different shades of white, for instance, try antique white pillows, eggshell white vases, and linen white lamp shades.

Never Go All White
When decorating a room, start off using white sparingly. Try adding white accessories and go from there. When you go all white in the home, it can feel unwelcoming, so the key is blending whites with more neutral tones for a cohesive look. Add jars, bone boxes, and other accessories in neutral colors, and consider white and tan striped walls. If you're starting to feel overwhelmed by the whites and neutrals, you can always add a pop of color with a decorative floral arrangement.

Add Texture
The most important rule to adding white at home is using texture. Texture in the form of faux-fur pillows or throws will give your space more dimension and substance. White wood, wicker, or bamboo are also all good choices to warm up your white interior. Also aim for a nice contrast between smooth and glossy surfaces, with a lacquer table or a hobnail lamp.

Visit Nate Berkus Website For More Information

The Art of Sub-Division By George Duke

2011-02-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

“SUBDIVISION”- any reduction in size of a parcel or tract of land by dividing it into 2 or more smaller pieces.

The above description explains what a subdivision is but we’re going to explain how that process is done. It’s listed below in chronological order.

1. First- a licensed land surveyor must be hired to survey the property. It this point a new plat (plot) plan will be made by the surveyor showing the location of the new surveyed property in relation to adjoining properties and landmarks. Usually takes 30-45 days.

2. Second- this new plat plan must be presented to the County Planning Commission for review & approval. Usually takes 30 days.

3. Third- after the County Planning Commission approves the plat plan it is taken to the Township for approval by their board and signed by all parties involved. Usually takes 30-45 days.

4. Fourth- a Real Estate Attorney must generate a new deed for that parcel and have it recorded at the County Courthouse. Usually takes 30-45 days.

This note is very important! A deed search will also be done to make sure that there is no lien against the property that is being sub-divided. If there is it’s better to know when the First part is done otherwise it could take months longer to get the deed for the sub-divided property.

Submitted By:

George Duke

The Pennwest Homes Advantage

2011-02-22T06:37:00.000-08:00

The Pennwest Homes Advantage

Pennwest Homes was launched in 2005, bringing together the latest home-building technologies, a dedicated management team, and an experienced builder network. Innovative designs, and the ability to customize your home, provide our homeowners an affordable way to build a truly quality home.

While other homebuilders offer features in their homes as options, Pennwest includes them as standards. This ultimately saves the customers money.

Some of the features you will find standard in the Pennwest home are:

Hardwood molding package
Forced air heating system installed
Unique kitchen designs with staggered overhead cabinets and a bump-out at the kitchen sink
Plumbing lines and water lines installed
Taller windows, 12" overhangs, pre-finished door jambs, 30 year architectural shingles

As a system-built homebuilder, Pennwest Homes can take advantage of better equipment, a controlled climate, daily quality control, and dedicated, proven craftsmen. Our craftsmen build homes both by hand and with sophisticated tools, precision jigs, and the latest technology - much of which is not available to traditional builder.

By building a home 'inside' rather than 'outside,' Pennwest can help eliminate climate problems, an especially important issue in the Northeast. Pennwest can build consistently, year-round, without delays caused by weather issues. By building our homes inside, Pennwest can also avoid many other climate-related lumber and material issues. By reducing delays in construction, our homeowners can move into their home faster.

Quality is a key reason why people buy Pennwest homes. A dedicated quality control team inspects homes daily throughout the construction process. All of our homes are built to state and local building codes.

Independent third-party inspection agencies provide another level of quality control, inspecting and approving our homes while they are being built.

As an affiliate of The Commodore Corporation, Pennwest Homes can draw upon the buying power of one of the largest homebuilders in the Midwest and Northeast. Privately-owned, The Commodore Corporation has been building homes since 1952. That purchasing power is just one of the advantages we pass along to you.

Pennwest Available Color Palette for Homestead Oak, Inc.

2011-02-17T09:31:00.000-08:00

George Duke talks about the many different wonderful color palettes available in cabinetry, flooring and countertops for Pennwest in all their homes here at Homestead Oak. Watch and see.

BUILDING MATERIAL COSTS ARE LOW BUT MAY BE RISING. ANOTHER REASON TO BUY YOUR HOME NOW.

2011-02-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

Due to expected lumber costs we are estimating that a $3,000 - $5,000 price increase per home will occur by April 1^st just to absorb the higher lumber costs.

The two driving factors for increased costs are soaring fuel prices and overseas demand for materials fro China and India. Shipping and manufacturing costs due to increased fuel prices have driven up most building materials.

Reports also indicate the US housing industry bottomed out in 2009 and that demand for new homes have increased since. Industry sources claim that new housing demand in 2011 will increase compared to 2010 and then further strengthen in 2012.

Right here and now just might be the last good entry point for new home construction before builders are forced to raise the price of the new home construction due to rising commodity prices.

MORTGAGE RATES HOLDING ABOUT .5% HIGHER THAN OCTOBER 2010 LOWS

2011-02-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

Mortgage Interest rates have risen a minimum of .5% since the market lows set back in October 2010. Since then rates have been trending up. Keep in mind that just a .5% increase in mortgage rates is like adding $15K to the price of your next new or existing home. Add in another expected .5% rate increase to 5.1% later in 2011 and the home you buy will feel $30K more expensive than if you purchased the same exact home back in October 2010. Now add in forecasted material price increases and you have what many are now saying will be the new pricing reality of the next 18 to 24 months especially for new construction.

Obviously the moral of the story is contracting you new home sooner will be the best way to avoid higher costs. Cupid thinks So.

2011-02-11T04:50:00.000-08:00

Calling all bird lovers!

The National Bird-Feeding Society (NBFS) is pleased to announce that February is National Bird-Feeding Month!

https://www.birdfeeding.org/about-nbfs/press-kit/february-is-national-bird-feeding-month.html

For the monthof February, the NBFS will highlight the joys of bird feeding by providing tips and techniques to create a successful bird feeding and watching experience.

Whether you live in a rural, suburban or urban environment, there are always birds that can be attracted to your yard. Having the right combination of food and feeders is the key to a successful bird feeding experience.

“Whatever the reason you feed wild birds, bringing backyard birds to your yard will be an enjoyable experience,” remarked Stacey Johansen, manager of the NBFS. “It’s an entertaining, educational and inexpensive pastime that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.”

Does anyone have any great photo’s of birds feeding in their yard or even out of their hand (if you are so lucky)? Let’s share those photo’s.

Mary Darkmoor

BUILDING MATERIAL COSTS ARE LOW...BUT MAY BE RISING. ANOTHER REASON TO BUY YOUR HOME NOW

2011-02-11T04:39:00.000-08:00

Due to expected lumber costs our industry is estimating that a $3,000 - $5,000 price increase per home will occur by April 1^st just to absorb the higher lumber costs.

Right here and now just might be the last good entry point for new home construction before builders are forced to raise the price of the new home construction due to rising commodity prices.

PRICE VS. VALUE

2011-02-09T09:58:00.000-08:00

Jim Martin shares his thoughts on the

#1 pitfall that many home buyers fall into.

A friend of mine who is a large commercial builder [we’ll call him “George”] once told me that the most frustrating part of his business is when he’s bidding a job for a customer who refuses to recognize the difference between price and value. “You can’t treat construction like a basic commodity”, he told me. “You can’t shop for a home-builder the same way you shop for a gallon of milk or a box of nails”.

I’m not sure George used the term “commodity” in the proper context, but the point he was trying to make was loud and clear: price alone should NEVER be the primary consideration when you’re choosing a builder – the lowest price is almost never the best value.

The rock-bottom-price mentality is extremely common today. Thanks to retailers like Wal-Mart, we have raised generations of consumers who’ve been indoctrinated with the notion that smart shopping is all about price. When you’re shopping for basic, everyday, household goods, I suppose that’s true. Aside from a handful of subjective factors like convenience, it really doesn’t matter where you choose to buy most household products so there’s really nothing wrong shopping for price alone.

But the same simply cannot be said when it comes to construction – particularly modular construction. In fact, to a truly shrewd homebuyer, price barely makes the top five on a list of their most important considerations. The most important factors tend to be:

the reputation & integrity of the company/contractor/salesperson
the quality of the workmanship
and, the quality of the building components (not necessarily in that order).

With a few moments of objective thought, you’ll surely agree.

Let’s think first about the reputation of your builder. How long has the contractor been in business in your area? Can they provide references? Have you met the company’s owners and do they make themselves available to you?

Back in the late ‘90’s and early 2000’s while the housing boom was in full swing, several manufactured housing dealerships popped up in our territory – no less than 6 new competitors within a 10 mile radius. They leased property, set up a small sales office, slapped together a few model homes and quickly set forth to capture as much of the market as they could with a sales approach centered almost exclusively on price. Their owners were largely absent and unknown within the community. They had no references to speak of, and were selling a low-end product at very low prices. To bring perspective to the pricing, at the time, most reputable manufactured home dealers were selling a 1350 square foot sectional for about $40,000. These nomadic builders, on the other hand, were baiting their prospects with prices in the low $30’s for a similarly sized home – (“size”, however, was where the similarities ended). Of those 10 dealerships, only two are still in business today – most were gone within 3 years, leaving behind dozens of customers with substandard homes, substandard on-site completion, and absolutely nowhere to turn when the problems started appearing. Unfortunately, I would bet that few, if any, of those customers gave much weight at all to the quality of the company they were dealing with – they were seduced by a low price.

My company, Homestead Oak, has been in business at the same location since 1989. It remains a small, family-owned business and our customers can find my wife and Ion site, 5 days a week. We’re raising our family here, we play an active role in our community, and fully intend to conduct business right here, the way we always have until we retire. Prospective home-buyers will have no problem finding us or looking into our history should they so choose.

Then there’s the quality of workmanship. One of the first men my father-in-law hired when he started this business was a master woodworker named Chris who was, at the time, employed as an interior trim man with a builder whose niche was the 3000-4000 square foot, high-end, “McMansions” that had been the trademark of the housing bubble. To refer to Chris as a run-of-the-mill trim man is an injustice – he was fantastic – truly a master at his trade. And Chris was just one of several quality guys that my father-in-law brought on board to make up his crew. Guys with that kind of talent and work ethic don’t come cheap. Simply put, a company who is selling their homes at rock bottom prices just can’t afford to employ guys like Chris. With that in mind, it’s not at all hard to understand the adverse correlation between low prices and quality workmanship. So it really comes down to weather or not you’re willing to bear the cost to have superior workmen on your project, or are you willing to take the risk of working with the guys at the bottom of the construction food chain.

And finally there’s the quality of the building components to consider. One of the easiest ways for a contractor to cheapen his build or widen his profit margin is to skimp on quality materials. I could go on for forever talking about the superior quality of the components we use in our homes but for the sake of brevity, I’ll mention just one – cabinetry. The manufactured housing industry is fraught with homes with extremely shoddy cabinetry. A Homestead Oak home, on the other hand, is beautifully outfitted with cabinetry certified by KCMA (the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association). That may not sound like a big deal until you learn that a KCMA cabinet has been put through an extensive series of rigorous test for strength and durability. For example, the shelves of a KCMA certified cabinet are loaded with 15lbs per square foot for a period of seven days during which there must be no signs of excessive deflection and no visible sign of separation or failure of any part of the cabinets or mounting system. And, to test the ability of doors/hinges and means of attachment, 65lbs. is applied to the door. The weighted door is slowly operated through 10 cycles. The door must remain weighted for 10 minutes, after which the door and hinges must show no signs of damage, and connections must show no signs of looseness. I’ll spare you all the details of KCMA, but the point is, cabinets are just one of literally hundreds of different components that make up your new home. Think of all the different components of your home; light fixtures, water fixtures, carpet, countertops – the price shopper has to be willing to turn a blind eye to the quality associated with all of these.

So, what can you do to guard against these pitfalls?

1. LOOK BEYOND THE GLITZ. Some designers of system-built homes are very good at disguising cheap construction with a lot of eye-catching frills. Learn to look beyond the beautiful fireplaces and decorative windows. Ask instead about the construction specifications. Look for things like KCMA certified cabinetry, Energy Star Certification (for energy efficiency), 16”oc exterior construction, and quality workmanship in general.

2. COMPARE “APPLES TO APPLES”. If you’re comparing several homes against one-another, begin by leveling the playing field. Obviously the homes must be similar in size and layout, but you’ll also need to make sure the homes have comparable specifications. You would never expect to buy a Ferrari for the price of a Ford – likewise, two homes cannot be fairly compared if they’re not built to similar quality and construction standards. Making “apples to apples” comparisons will help you make the right choice.

3. THERE’S NO FREE LUNCH. Many system builders will advertise artificially low prices to “hook” their customers who later learn that their price didn’t include necessary basics like delivery, set-up, tax, utility connections, etc. And don’t forget to consider your builder’s reputation for service AFTER the sale. There’s nothing worse than finding problems that resulted from shoddy workmanship and later finding out that the builder has no intentions of returning to make it right. Asking the right questions will reveal that the dealer’s price wasn’t a bargain at all.

4. LOOK FOR EXPER-IENCE. Who will be delivering, installing and servicing your home? How experienced are the company’s crew and sub-contractors? What is the reputation of the dealer and the home’s manufacturer? Many unwary buyers fail to ponder these questions when, in fact, these are arguably the most important factors in your purchasing decision. You can’t put a price tag on quality products, good service and solid reputation.

5. SHOP FOR VALUE NOT PRICE In other words, the lowest price is almost never the best deal. Like any other product, system-built homes are offered in many different levels of quality and price. All homes are not created equal so don't be fooled by two apparently identical products that are substantially different in price- there's usually a very good reason why one is priced much lower than the other. Remember what your parents taught you long ago...

You get what you pay for.

Today’s system-built homes (i.e. manufactured homes and modular homes) offer the weary buyer a fresh approach to building with both quality and affordability – VALUE.

Sure there are cheaply built manufactured/modular homes out there, and our industry has yet to entirely weed-out some of the less scrupulous builders, with a little due diligence on the buyers’ part, they should be able to build with few surprises or disappointments. Call one of the professional consultants at Homestead Oak to day to schedule a no cost, no obligation appointment to answer your questions.

CLARIFYING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SITE BUILT,MODULAR AND MANUFACTURED HOME

2011-02-07T09:51:00.000-08:00

There is a difference between manufactured housing and a modular built home!

When you are buying a home, you will hear the terms “site built”, “modular home” and “manufactured home”. It's important to understand how these structures differ, no matter whether you are purchasing an existing home or plan to build on a vacant lot that is subject to restrictions.

What Are Site Built Homes?

They are constructed entirely at the building site. They conform to all state, local or regional codes where the house is located. These are often referred to as stick built houses. Stick built homes are constructed entirely at the building site. They conform to all state, local or regional codes where the house is located. A well built, cared for site-built home generally increases in value over time, although it’s location plays a key role.

What are Modular Homes?

Modular homes are built in sections at the factory. They conform to all state, local or regional building codes at their locations. Sections of the home are transported to the building site on truck beds, then joined together by local contractors. Local building inspectors check to make sure a modular home’s structure meets requirements and that all finish work is done properly. Modular homes are less expensive per square foot then site built homes. A well- built modular home should have the same longevity as its site-built counterpart, increasing in value over time.

What Are Manufactured Homes?

Formerly referred to as mobile homes or trailers, but with many more style options than in the past. Manufactured homes are built in a factory. They conform to a Federal building code, call the HUD code, rather than to building codes at their location. Manufactured homes are built on a non-removable steel chassis. Sections are transported to the building site on their own wheels. Multi-part manufactured units are joined at their location. Segments are not always placed on a permanent foundation.

Can I help to clarify or answer any questions on the differences between stick built, modular or manufactured homes?

Can I Build a New Home with Less Than 20% Down?

2011-02-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

Absolutely! In fact, you can even build a new home with NOTHING DOWN if you meet certain criteria!

If you own your land (even if there is a loan against it) or will be getting land given to you from a relative, the equity in that land can cover your entire down payment and many times even your closing costs. The minimum is to have at least a 3.5% down payment. Look at this example:

a. Your land that you own free & clear appraises for: $10,000.00

b. The total home price with site work from Homestead Oak is: $85,000.00

c. You add land value to the cost of the home which equals: $95,000.00

d. times 96.5% (max that the Bank will lend)= X 96.5%

$91,675.00

You only need to borrow $85,000 + closing costs. If you only need 3.5% down, that means you can borrow 96.5% of the total of $95,000. That gives you a max loan amount of $91,675 which is more than you will need, therefore, in this example, you would not need any additional money down to build a new home!

Simply put the Bank will loan 96 ½ cents for each appraisal dollar.

If you do not have enough equity in your land or will need to purchase land to build on, you would need to come up with enough money to equal a 3.5% down payment. The good news is that you will not need anywhere near 20% down to build a new home!

Article submitted jointly by Toni Ciccarelli/Huntington Bank &

Mary Darkmoor- Sales Consultant/Homestead Oak Inc.

What is the Difference between a Sectional & Modular Home????? By George Duke

2011-02-01T11:19:00.000-08:00

Oh sorry ladies...this is not George Duke. Even though George is a handsome fellow he is not George Clooney!

Sectional

Built to HUD (federal codes) by wind and temperature zones.
Comes with a steel frame. Wheels & axles returned to builder for recycling.
Normally rolled onto foundation.
Furnace & water heater on 1^st floor.
Appliances included.
Generally vinyl gypsum walls.
Standard 3/12 roofs. 5/12 or 7/12 available on most models/
Limited floor plan changes
Foundation can be piers. Frost wall, half or full foundation.
Warranty:1 year plus additional 9 year structural warranty after first year.
$34.00 to $47.00 per square ft. for most homes.

Modular

Built to BOCA (State Codes)
Comes on a carrier.
Generally all wood frame.
Craned onto foundation.
Available with or without furnace, H/W/H & appliances.
Primed ½” drywall.
Standard steeper 5/12 roofs. 7/12, 9/12 &12/12 available.
Can customize most home plans.
Half or full foundation only

Block or Superiors Walls.

Warranty: 1 year plus additional 9-year structural warranty after first year.

$55.00 to $65.00 per square ft. for most homes

Woman’s Influence in a Buyers Market

2011-01-31T12:02:00.000-08:00

There have been numerous studies done into who buys new homes, what they want and why they buy. One thing was discovered, when builders make their homes more appealing to women, their sales skyrocket. Women are the sole or primary decision makers, in 93% of all new home purchases. So connecting with women should be our primary objective. We need to make sure we appeal to their needs. Builders need to be aware what certain amenities in their homes that would get the women to say “Wow, I can’t even imagine building my home without having that.” That is our philosophy at Homestead Oak we cater to what women want. We have geared our interior design specifically with women in mind. After all you are coming to buy your dream home, let us turn that dream into a reality.

As part of the research which focused on the female homebuyer, there are a few items within the study that come to the forefront in importance to you:

Front Entrance

When we look at designs, one of the first things that we look at is the fact that the entrance into the home from the garage has become our primary entrance into the home. We no longer use the front door unless we are entertaining.

Rear Foyer

The rear foyer has become a very important part of the home. Some of the things this room needs to have is a place for keys, a place to sort mail, a place to recharge all of our electronics…we call it a drop zone. It has become a very important feature as opposed to the traditional coat closet.

Moms prefer lockers because the kids know how to use them and if the kids are going to go out in the morning on their way to school, their last stop is by their locker. This is where their jacket, their books and their backpacks are; everything they need for school that day.

Garages

Women do not prefer side entrances to the garages. The practicality of a front-load garage, pulling the car straight in, backing the car straight out is definitely preferable to having to make that tight turn to get the car into the garage and then having the tight radius backing out of the garage.

Kitchens

The kitchen is often the primary socializing space. Women want a kitchen that is very accommodating, very easy to have it look presentable. Having bigger and bigger pantries or even a food-prep pantry that might have its own sink and dishwasher so that messes can be closed off from the rest of the kitchen.

The kitchens need to be open to the living space, the primary entertaining area. Many of today’s buyers have realized the practicality of doing away with a formal dining room and just having one larger eating space.

Size & Space

Adding these larger spaces does not have to mean that consumers have to build a larger home. Usually it’s a trade off. You are not going to gain some of the amenities, such as a nicer foyer entrance into the home, without having traded the space off from somewhere else. Consumers like flex space that could be a den/study/home office or a dining room or even it could be a guest bedroom. We never designed a home that had too much storage space. So, it’s got to be good, usable storage and it’s got to be where she needs it.

Women look at the flexibility of design and whether or not the design is going to meet not only their needs today, but their needs three, five or seven years into the future.

Sealing Ducts

2011-01-28T11:37:00.000-08:00

In houses with forced-air heating and cooling systems, ducts are used to distribute conditioned air throughout the house. In a typical house, however, about 20 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks and poorly sealed connections. The result is higher utility bills and difficulty keeping the house comfortable, no matter how the thermostat is set.

Because some ducts are concealed in walls and between floors, repairing them can be difficult. However, exposed ducts in attics, basements, crawlspaces, and garages can be repaired by sealing the leaks with duct sealant (also called duct mastic). In addition, insulating ducts that run through spaces that get hot in summer or cold in winter (like attics, garages, or crawlspaces) can save significant energy.

Additionally, if you are replacing your forced-air heating and cooling equipment, make sure your contractor installs the new system according to ENERGY STAR quality installation guidelines. A quality installation will include a thorough inspection of your duct system, including proper sealing and balancing of ductwork, to help ensure that your new system delivers the most comfort and efficiency.

How to Sell Your Home in a Lousy Market

2011-01-27T10:47:00.000-08:00

You must be crazy if you’re thinking about selling your home right now! At least that is sentiment of some homeowners who see potential job loss, plunging home values and an uncertain economy as reasons why people should stay put. However, life isn’t always so cut and dry for everyone including those homeowners who aren’t looking to sell in order to escape foreclosure.

If you’re desiring to sell your home, then there are some things you must keep in mind before putting your home on the market:

If you're planning to sell your home, will an abundance of nearby foreclosures affect your selling price? Yes, it could.

Research Thoroughly – The home you paid $159,000 for more then ten years ago could have sold for as high as $298,000 two years ago. Today, home values have plunged in many markets which means you could be trying to market a house worth a hundred grand less than its peak worth. Find out what comparable homes in your area are selling for by visiting sites like Trulia.com and Zillow.com which track the market. If you have a friend in the real estate business, ask for the most recent comp for your area.

Plan Accordingly – Now that you know what your home would likely fetch in this market, is that a price that you can live with? If not, consider not selling your home right now. Where buyers have been going through sticker shock for most of the last two decades, that same shock is being felt by sellers who realize that inflated home prices are now a thing of the past.

Think Wisely – One important factor to consider before putting your home up for sale: are you competing against foreclosures? If so, you’ll have a tough time selling your home at the price that you think it should fetch in this market. Visit RealtyTrac.com to see how many homes in your area are under foreclosure. If one or two, you may be okay. If there are many more than you’ll have a tough time competing against “fire sale” prices.

Choose Smartly – How will you market your home? Will you be using the services of a real estate (R/E) agent? If so, what will the R/E fee be? If choosing For Sale By Owner (FSBO) will you be able to market your home accordingly? Being that this is a buyer’s market, expect buyers to want to see your home at a moment’s notice – will you be available to show it?

Market Aggressively – In many housing markets, you have just one or two weeks to find a buyer before your home is considered stale – on the market too long. This means that you will need to aggressively market your home, using both internet and print methodologies to get the word our. If possible, price your home slightly below the prevailing market rate and make sure that no updates are needed. Expect buyers to want incentives to buy your home, perhaps a lower price or payment of their closing costs. Know your rock bottom price before you get started to see just how much room you have to negotiate.

End Quickly – One advantage of selling FSBO is that you can quickly gauge the market. If you can take a week off from work to market your home, you may be in a better frame of mind to negotiate a price that is acceptable to both parties. In addition, you won’t have to leave your home languishing on the market for months if it is quickly apparent that you won’t be able to sell. With a Real Estate firm handling your sale, you may have to keep it listed for up to six months.

Of course, if you have the flexibility as to whether your home must be sold now or not, then one important area of tension has been removed. You can always try your luck six months later especially if foreclosed inventory shrinks while demand increases.

AN INTRODUCTION TO YOUR CONSTRUCTION LOAN

2011-01-25T07:36:00.000-08:00

This is very informative and should answer many questions for you from the loan process all the way thru the completion of construction on your new home.

OBTAINING A CONSTRUCTION LOAN when ob

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When can I lock in my interest rate?

You are unable to lock in your 30 year fixed interest rate until your loan application is approved by an Underwriter. At that time you will be called to lock in your interest rate. The rate notated in the paperwork is merely an estimate until that time. Once locked – the construction will need completed and the loan modified before the interest rate lock expiration date (which is determined and set when we lock in your rate). Lock periods can be either 180 days, 240 days or 270 days with rates adjusting slightly for the longer periods. If construction or modification exceeds your rate lock period, penalties may occur.

Are the monthly taxes & insurance estimates in the loan paperwork correct?

No. We have to "estimate" what these items will be though we do not know the real answer at this time. Do not misinterpret these estimations with what you will have to pay in your monthly payment. When your insurance agent and your County Treasurer give us the correct premiums, we will then change the estimates to the correct figures for your mortgage payment.

If I make changes to the price with my builder, can I finance these changes?

Absolutely – providing the loan has not closed and providing you can still qualify for the loan amount if the price has increased. Any changes made after your loan is closed will need paid directly to the builder as the loan cannot be amended once the closing has occurred.

How long will it take to get my loan closed?

You should have your loan ready to close in less than 60 days from the date we receive the application paperwork and the requested personal documents. There are unknowns that may come up such as delays in getting the purchase price finalized or appraisal issues which could affect this timetable. Faster closing times can and have been met. If speed is a concern for you - your complete cooperation will is greatly appreciated.

What type of homeowners insurance do I need?

Your homeowners’ policy will need to include “Builder’s Risk” coverage (unless your builder happens to provide this for you) and the premium must be paid a full year in advance. It is also required that you obtain coverage for AT LEAST the amount to satisfy your mortgage amount in the event of a loss. By the way - Huntington Insurance is aware & can accommodate this criteria if you choose them to provide your insurance for you.

Why is the FHA MIP (Mortgage Insurance Premium) listed on the Good Faith Estimate?

In January 2010, the government mandated a standardized Good Faith document that all mortgage lenders must use. The FHA financed insurance premium (which is added to your base loan amount to create the final loan amount) is shown as part of the loan closing costs thus creating a much larger cost amount on this form. The total IS NOT solely what you are paying in costs for this loan as much of this total is the financed FHA premium. This financed premium amount is listed on page 2, section 3 called “Mtg. Ins. /RD Guar. Fee”.

Can I ever drop the MIP from my payment? The monthly MIP may be dropped when your loan balance is paid down to 78% of the initial sales price or the initial appraised value, whichever was lower, providing you have the loan for at least 5 years. In addition – if you sell the home or refinance the loan, a pro rated portion of the financed amount is also refunded back to you. This is better explained on the attached forms titled “Important Notice to Homebuyers (page 2 of 2) and the“FHA Homeowners Fact Sheet”.

What do I have to pay during the construction?

During the construction of your home, you will be billed each month for the interest due on the construction draws disbursed to your builder. This will also include the advance to purchase or payoff your land (if applicable). You will not pay the monthly FHA insurance, your homeowners insurance or your property taxes during construction - just the interest due on the draws. It is important that you understand that you will have an interest payment due to us each month during construction which will increase each month as your home progresses thru construction.

What happens once my construction project is completed?

Shortly after the completion of your construction, you will be contacted to set up the “modification” of your loan to convert from the construction phase to the permanent, 30 year payback phase. At this time, you will need to pay to set up your escrow account for the taxes and insurance as nothing has been paid by you during the months under construction. In addition, we will collect interest from the date of modification until the end of the month. For example, if construction is completed on October 5^th, modification will not occur until November 1^st (all FHA modifications are on the 1^st day of the month after construction), you would prepay the interest for the remainder of October and your first mortgage payment would then be due December 1^st.

The following items are required to be completed to be able to modify your FHA construction loan into the permanent mortgage.

Stairs from all outside doorways, service walkway (walkway from drive to front door)
final grade & seed and straw (winter weather delays may occur. Check for details)

Do I need any inspections in order for Modification to occur? (FHA loans only)

That depends. If your county issues a Building Permit & Certificate of Occupancy, you DO NOT NEED a site inspection UNLESS you are building a manufactured / doublewide home. The respective fees have been included in your closing cost estimation. If your county doesn’t issue the above, an FHA certified inspector will need to conduct an inspection of your home’s construction. Also - If you have a well and/or a septic system – you will need a certified well/water test and/or a septic inspection upon completion of construction. These tests need ordered and paid for by you and your loan cannot modify to the permanent mortgage until we receive them and your systems get a passing grade. The approx. cost for each test is $150 and we can help you find a company to perform these tests in your area. Your first inquiry should be your County Health Department as they may complete these tests at a nominal fee or even free or charge.

Can I apply any unused construction money back on my loan?

Yes but not until after modification has occurred. FHA requires us to modify your loan at the exact same loan amount as when the loan initially closed. If you want your payment reduced to reflect the lesser amount borrowed (called “recasting”), we can do this for you. There is a modest fee for the recast as the Note will need amended. In addition – you can also apply a lump sum principal payment any time you wish, as often as you wish and we can also do this recast for you if you want the payment reduced to reflect the new lowered loan amount. Please note – only AFTER modification has taken place can we amend your loan amount and recast your mortgage payment. It is uncommon for bank’s to offer their customers a “recast” feature and we are proud to be able to do so for you.

Submitted by:

Tony Ciccarelli

Mortgage Loan Consultant

The Huntington National Bank

Air Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR

2011-01-21T09:02:00.000-08:00

Sealing and insulating the "envelope" or "shell" of your home — its outer walls, ceiling, windows, doors, and floors — is often the most cost effective way to improve energy efficiency and comfort. ENERGY STAR estimates that a knowledgeable homeowner or skilled contractor can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs (or up to 10% on their total annual energy bill by sealing and insulating.

To Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR:

· Seal air leaks throughout the home to stop drafts,

· Add insulation to block heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer,

· Choose ENERGY STAR qualified windows when replacing windows.

If your attic is accessible and you like home improvement projects, you can Do-It-Yourself with help from our DIY Guide to Sealing and Insulating with ENERGY STAR. The Guide offers step-by-step instructions for sealing common air leaks and adding insulation to the attic.

You can also hire a contractor who will use special diagnostic tools to pinpoint and seal the hidden air leaks in your home. A Home Energy Rater can help you find contractors that offer air sealing services in your area.

Sealing Leaks

Many air leaks and drafts are easy to find because they are easy to feel — like those around windows and doors. But holes hidden in attics, basements, and crawlspaces are usually bigger problems. Sealing these leaks with caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping will have a great impact on improving your comfort and reducing utility bills. Click on the house diagram to see common air leak locations that you should aim to seal.

Homeowners are often concerned about sealing their house too tightly; however, this is very unlikely in most older homes. A certain amount of fresh air is needed for good indoor air quality and there are specifications that set the minimum amount of fresh air needed for a house. If you are concerned about how tight your home is, hire a contractor, such as a Home Energy Rater, who can use diagnostic tools to measure your home's actual leakage. If your home is too tight, a fresh air ventilation system may be recommended.

After any home sealing project, have a heating and cooling technician check to make sure that your combustion appliances (gas- or oil-fired furnace, water heater, and dryer) are venting properly. For additional information on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) issues related to homes, such as combustion safety, visit EPA’s Indoor Air Quality Web site.

Adding Insulation

Insulation keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. There are several common types of insulation — fiberglass (in both batt and blown forms), cellulose, rigid foam board, and spray foam. Reflective insulation (or radiant barrier) is another insulating product which can help save energy in hot, sunny climates.

When correctly installed with air sealing, each type of insulation can deliver comfort and lower energy bills during the hottest and coldest times of the year.

· Insulation performance is measured by R-value — its ability to resist heat flow. Higher R-values mean more insulating power. Different R-values are recommended for walls, attics, basements and crawlspaces, depending on your area of the country. Insulation works best when air is not moving through or around it. So it is very important to seal air leaks before installing insulation to ensure that you get the best performance from the insulation.

To get the biggest savings, the easiest place to add insulation is usually in the attic. A quick way to see if you need more insulation is to look across your uncovered attic floor. If your insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists, you probably need to add more insulation. The recommended insulation level for most attics is R-38 (or about 12–15 inches, depending on the insulation type). In the coldest climates, insulating up to R-49 is recommended.

For more information visit http://www.homesteadoak.com/ or
Like Us on facebook www.connect.facebook.com/people/Homestead-Oak/100001582626419

KCMA CERTIFIED CABINETS

2011-01-19T11:23:00.000-08:00

Commodore Homes of PA's Classic Craft Cabinetry is KCMA Approved!

1. What does that mean?

This means that Classic Craft Cabinetry built at Commodore Homes of PA
meet the same rigorous KCMA standards as all other leading cabinet manufacturers.
These cabinets go through a series of tests to measure structural integrity of the
cabinets. Cabinet doors and drawers are tested, and even the finish is tested before
KCMA will certify our cabinets.

2.What is KCMA?

Kitchen Cabinet Manufactures Association (KCMA) is a nationally
recognized voluntary testing and certification program for cabinets.
KCMA is a certified Performance & Construction Standard for
Kitchen and Vanity Cabinets.

3. Who is eligible to have their cabinets certified?

KCMA Certification Program is open to any cabinet manufacturer.

4. What are the requirements to earn KCMA certification?

a. All wall cabinets must be fully enclosed with backs, bottoms, sides and

tops. All base cabinets must be fully enclosed with backs, bottoms and

b. All cabinets designed to rest on the floor must be provided with a toe

space at least 2" deep and 3" high.

c. All utility cabinets must meet the same construction requirements as

wall cabinets.

d. Doors must be properly aligned with cabinet and close without excessive binding or looseness.

e. All materials must ensure rigidity in compliance with performance standards.

f. Face frames must provide rigid construction.

g. All wood parts must be dried to a moisture content of 10% or less at the time of falorication.

h. All exterior exposed surfaces and edges of end panels and edges of back panels, shall be free of saw marks and other imperfections and shall be filled and sanded, edge banded, or otherwise finished.

i. All exterior exposed parts of cabinets must have nails and staples set and holes filled. All exposed surfaces shall be free of saw marks and poor workmanship, and shall be covered with a laminate material or have a minimum of one coat of clear or pigmented finish.

k. Exposed cabinet hardware must comply with the Builders Hardware

Manufactu ring Association finishing standards.

5. What are the 5 structural tests for KCMA?

a. Alt shelves and bottoms are loaded with 15lbs. per square foot, and loading is maintained for seven days to ensure that there is no excessive deflection and no visible sign of joint separation or failure of any part of

the cabinets or the mounting system.

b. Mounting wall cabinets are gradually loaded to 500lbs. without any visible sign of failure in the cabinet or the mounting system.

c. 250lbs. is applied against the inside of cabinets styles to test the strength of base front joints.

d. A 3lb. steel ball is dropped 6" above the surface to insure the shelves, bottoms and drawer bottoms will withstand the dropping of cans and other items. After the test the drawer must not be damaged and must

still operate as before and have no visible sign of joint separation or failure to any part of the cabinet mounting system.

e. A 101b. sandbag is used to strike the center of a closed cabinet door and repeated with the door opened to test the ability of cabinet doors and mounting hardware. The door must operate as befqre the test and

show no damage or sign of separation or failure in the system.

6. What drawer tests are performed?

To test the ability of drawers and drawer mechanisms with loading during normal use, drawers are loaded to 15lbs. per square foot and operated through 25,000 cycles. The drawer must remain operable with

no failure in any part of the drawer or operating system. To test the ability of the drawer-front assembly to withstand the impact of closing the drawer under normal use, a 3lb. weight is dropped against the drawer assembly. After 10 drops, there must be no evidence of looseness or structural damage to the drawer-front

7. What door operation tests are performed?

a. To test the ability of doors/hinges and means of attachment, 65lbs. is applied to the door. The weighted door is slowly operated through L0cylces. The door must remain weighted for 10 minutes, after which the

door and hinges must show no signs of damage, and connections must show no signs of looseness.

b. To test the ability of doors, door hinges and attachments devices, the doors are opened and closed through a full 90 degree swing for 25,000 cycles. After testing the door must be operable, the door hinges must hold the door in a closed position and show no sign of damage. The attachment devices between the cabinet/hinges and the door/hinges must show no sign of looseness.

8. What are the tests performed to the cabinet finish?

a. To test the ability of the finish to withstand high heat, a cabinet door isplaced into a hotbox at t2A degrees,and 70% humidity f or 24 hours. After the test the finish must show no discoloration and no evidence of blistering, checks, or other film failures.

b. Drawers Extend for Maximum Access

c. 3/4" Adjustable Half-Shelf in Base Kitchen Cabinets

d. Recessed Toe-Kick for Ease of Working at Cabinet

assembly.

sides.

Home Decor Hand Crafted by Local Artesans for Sale

2011-01-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

Did you know we currently offer many home decor items for sale throughout our model homes brought to you by local artisans? We started this program this past Fall and since it's inception it has been very well received.

Some of the items we currently offer include framed photos, lighted pictures, candles, aprons, quilts, wooden signs etc. all hand crafted by local artisans. Like what you see? Every piece of our home decor items, including furniture is for sale.

Come spend a leisure shopping day strolling through admiring our beautiful model homes and perhaps take home that perfect birthday gift for someone special. Then take time to visit and savor our many local area restaurants.

Our model homes are heated for the winter so the visit won't leave you out in the cold.

Efficient Heating Equipment Part 4: Series 6 Ways a New Home will Cut Your Energy Bills

2011-01-17T13:42:00.000-08:00

ENERGY STAR Qualified Heating Equipment

Enhances Comfort and Improves Durability

During the winter, homeowners expect their heating systems to keep them warm

without breaking the bank. ENERGY STAR qualified heating equipment can be up to

15 percent more efficient than standard models. ENERGY STAR qualified homes built

in the North typically include right-sized ENERGY STAR qualified heating equipment.

BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HEATING SYSTEMS

•
energy than standard systems. When properly installed, these heating systems can save
money on utility bills.

Lower Utility Bills. ENERGY STAR qualified heating systems are designed to use less
•
are designed to reduce the risk of backdrafting dangerous carbon monoxide exhaust into
the home.

Less Risk of Air Quality Problems. ENERGY STAR qualified gas-fired boilers and furnaces
•
employ advanced technologies and high quality components, often resulting in longer
equipment life and longer warranties compared to standard models.

Increased Durability. Most ENERGY STAR qualified boilers, furnaces, and heat pumps
HOW BOILERS, FURNACES, AND HEAT PUMPS WORK

Builders of ENERGY STAR qualified homes choose energy-efficient heating systems based
on available fuel choices and regional preferences. Common heating systems include boilers,
furnaces, and heat pumps. Here’s how they work:

•
units, baseboard convection units, or radiant loops. ENERGY STAR qualified boilers use
about 5 percent less energy than standard boilers.

Boilers heat water that is distributed in pipes throughout the home to radiators, fan coil
•
qualified oil and gas furnaces have annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings of
83 percent or higher, making them up to 15 percent more efficient than standard
models.

Furnaces heat air and distribute it throughout the home in a duct system. ENERGY STAR
•
heat pump functions exactly like an air conditioner—heat is extracted from inside the
home and transferred to the outside. The resulting cooled and dehumidified air is
distributed throughout the home in a duct system. In the winter, heat pumps operate in
reverse—by extracting heat from the air, the ground, or a source of water outdoors and
transferring it to the indoor air, which is distributed throughout the home in a duct system.

Heat Pumps use a refrigeration cycle to both heat and cool the home. In the summer, a
ASK ABOUT INSTALLATION

Proper installation of heating equipment can have a big impact on performance. Look for
heating equipment to be installed according to best practices, including:

•
Conditioning Contractors of America [ACCA]) should be used to determine heating
requirements. These calculations are more accurate than rule-of-thumb estimating (for
example, square footage ratios). In addition, ACCA Manual D should be used to properly
size the duct system.

Proper System Sizing. Load calculations (from Manual J and Manual S of the Air
•
inside the conditioned space of the home (as opposed to an unconditioned garage or
attic) to minimize exposure to harsh conditions (e.g., hot, humid, dusty attics in
summer). Outdoor compressors should be positioned to minimize direct sun exposure
while allowing plenty of room for air to flow around the units.
Proper Equipment Placement. The best location for air-handling equipment and ducts is
•
necessary to improve operating efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality.

Correct Airflow. The airflow and duct leakage should be tested and airflow adjusted as
A BETTER FUTURE

ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between the government and more than 9,000
organizations, including more than 3,500 of the nation’s home builders. Together with
home buyers and their families, we are working to achieve a common goal—protecting the
environment for future generations by changing to more energy-efficient practices andproducts today.

Virtues of Owning a Smaller Home Continued

2011-01-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

A "smaller" home is cheaper to decorate. Do we really need a breakfast nook and a full-sized dining room? How about a living room and a den? Every room you eliminate is one less room to heat, cool, and decorate.

A "smaller" home forces us to have a "home". When there's four people in a 4,500 square foot monster, each of them in a separate part of the house "doing their own thing" there isn't any family togetherness I know. My home is no where near that size but the four of us seem to rarely be in the same room together.

A "smaller" home gives you peace of mind. Half the size could mean half the price - and half the payment. If you loose your job, wouldn't a 50 percent smaller house payment be nice?

A "smaller" home saves on maintenance and cleaning. They have fewer windows to wash, fewer gutters to clean, less semi-annual maintenance to do, and smaller roof to one day replace. Your broom, mop and vacuum cleaner will last longer. You might not need that maid anymore.

Part Three: "Tight Construction and Ducts" in the Series "6 Ways a New Home will Cut Your Energy Bill"

2011-01-14T12:41:00.000-08:00

Efficient Duct Systems

Optimize the Home’s Comfort Delivery System

To create a comfortable home, an efficient duct system is a must. Ducts—known

collectively as the air distribution system—carry air from the central heater or air

conditioner to each part of the home and back again. In a typical house about

20 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes,

and poorly connected ducts. That’s why the duct systems found in ENERGY STAR

qualified homes are third-party tested for tightness and verified to be properly

insulated.

BENEFITS OF EFFICIENT DUCT SYSTEMS

• Improved Comfort. When ducts are properly sealed and insulated, they deliver

conditioned air more effectively to all rooms—helping to ensure a more constant

temperature throughout the home.

• Lower Utility Bills. The average

homeowner spends more than $600

on space heating and cooling each

year. Tightly sealed and well

insulated ducts found in ENERGY

STAR qualified homes can reduce

annual utility bills by $120 or more.

• Improved Indoor Air Quality.

Leaky ducts in attics, unfinished

basements, crawl spaces, and

garages can allow dirt, dust,

moisture, pollen, pests, and fumes

to enter the home. Sealing these ducts

helps improve indoor air quality.

• Lower Equipment Costs. When ducts are leaky, the heating and cooling system

has to work harder to condition the home. Duct sealing, along with proper

insulation, allows the installation of a smaller, less costly heating and cooling system.

BUILDING EFFICIENT DUCT SYSTEMS

Techniques and practices that provide an efficient and effective duct system include:

Ducts in Conditioned Spaces.
more efficiently in conditioned air at room
temperature. They do not work as well in
excessively hot or cold attics and crawl
spaces.
Sealed Ducts.
and/or Underwriters Laboratory (UL) 181
approved tapes, such as metal-backed tape, to
seal ducts. These materials more effectively
seal leaks around duct joints and seams than
standard “duct tape.”
Insulated Ducts.
connections can waste 20 percent or more of the air that you pay to heat and cool. To
minimize this energy loss, EPA first recommends installing ducts in conditioned spaces. Where
this is not possible, ducts should be insulated as recommended by the International Energy
Conservation Code (IECC).
Right-Sized Ducts.
Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J and Manual D calculations. This helps
to ensure that the ducts accommodate the air flow requirements of the heating and cooling
system for efficient distribution of heated or cooled air.

A BETTER FUTURE

ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between the government and more than 9,000
organizations, including more than 3,500 of the nation’s home builders. Together with home
buyers and their families, we are working to achieve a common goal—protecting the
environment for future generations by changing to more energy-efficient practices and
products today.
ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. It identifies new
homes, buildings, and more than 50 types of products that are energy efficient and offer the
features, quality, and performance that today’s consumers expect. Products that can earn the
ENERGY STAR include windows, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, and appliances. To
learn more about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov.
Ducts in ENERGY STAR qualified homes are sized based on the AirLeaky ducts and poorly sealedEPA promotes the use of masticDucts operate

Typical Places Where Ducts Leak

Design Trends for an Emerging Housing Market

2011-01-13T13:08:00.000-08:00

We speak with Doug Van Lerberghe, Principal, Kephart
Buyers are reemerging, but they’re are coming back more cautiously than in the past. New homes are being built, but they are reflecting a new set of buyer lifestyles and values.
What are the trends in new home design? What are buyers today willing to invest in – or willing to live without – in their new homes? We asked Doug Van Lerberghe, a principal at architectural the firm Kephart, to share his observations and insights as what builders and developers should be looking for and including in their new home designs. Listen to the audio interview to hear Doug’s explanation, or read our highlights in the article below:

Market Trends in Residential Design
One of the trends in single families for sales over the past couple of years is that homes today are about 300 square feet less in size than they were a few years ago. We have noticed over the past year and half is that we are designing more single family homes that are in that 1,350 – 1,900 sq. ft. range. So we as architects are trying to make a tighter home; we’re asking questions as to whether we need to put in those rooms that we have historically always put in. Certain markets haven’t done formal living rooms for awhile and instead put in a great room. On the east coast they still like their formal living spaces. So, builders need to ask how important a formal dining room is to the end user.

The second trend that we’re seeing is that, since the elections it seems that a lot of developers are out there trying to develop for apartments. In the past year we’ve seen a strong apartment market, but they were the HUD units because it was guaranteed financing. Now it looks like the private financing is starting to get some legs. So many people still can’t qualify for that ‘for sale’ home. So it seems we are moving towards the European model of ‘forever renters and never buyers’. It’s not a 100% trend, of course. We are a nation of niches. We have renters and buyers; some are going from one to the other. You can’t put everyone into an age demographic niche.

I do believe that there still are a number of young people that are still going to want the American dream. It’s still going to be desirous for them to buy a home. It’s still going to be perceived as a value and faith in buying will come back.

On the other hand, then, there’s going to be a fraction of the younger ones that won’t want to deal with home ownership and will want to continue to rent. I think we’re going to have a fragmented market. I think the ‘For Sale’ single family will be the hottest pursuit. I see a slow down in condos for sale for a number of years. There are still a lot of markets in the U.S. that are overbuilt and it’s going to take awhile to get rid of that inventory. Of course there still are niche opportunities where people will build condos or town homes for sale.

I’ve seen a righting of the trends in term of spec levels. Across the country it’s ‘How do you beat the Joneses’? Builder A would put in white granite counter tops to compete against Builder B. That’s drifted to a lot of finishes that were pretty high end across a production level home. I’ve talked to a number of builders and have witnessed that some of those things have taken a step back. There are still a lot of things being offered as options, but it’s not the base offering. Anything that can bring the base price of a home down is being removed as a standard feature and is now an optional feature.

The biggest trends though, from an architects perspective, is how to make a livable home while cutting the square footage and wasted space. For example, if a stairway is placed along the edge of a home, there will be a hallway to connect it to the central parts of the house. If you can centralize it, you can minimize the amount of hallways and distribute that space to the rooms, whatever the square footag is.

Trends in Lifestyle and Technology
Consciousness of our environment is a trend. I’m not seeing necessarily more solar panels, but more consideration and time being put into the home to make it more efficient. There is much more of a desire to minimize monthly expenses. Too, we’re seeing much better furnaces going into the homes. We’re seeing the buyers actually asking and being more environmentally savvy when it comes to the efficiency of the home. That definitely has an impact on the design and the better utilization of spaces.

Aligning with the Current Market
The biggest thing that I’ve seen pick up is that community developers, rather than putting in a huge club house, homes and all those amenities, are instead building closer to existing amenities. Instead of building these things in your community, can you put the site adjacent to them. For example, a health club, golf course or a resort. Rather than building it all yourself and taking on the initial costs, try teaming up with these things around you.

It’s not uncommon that in order to entice some of those buyers, you need to have those amenities available. To build those there day one is expensive and challenging. The whole concept is to try and team up with existing facilities, memberships and so on that are already out there.

Rent vs. Buying A Home

2011-01-13T07:18:00.000-08:00

Overview
Many types of people choose to rent rather then buy a home, enjoying freedoms and advantages that homeowners must sacrifice. But renting is not without its own drawbacks. Understanding rental housing terms is essential for tenants who must choose between buying and renting or determine where, and from whom, to rent.
In large apartment complexes, tenants often live in close proximity to one another.
Types
Tenants have the option to choose from several types of rental housing in most regions. Cities and villages often feature large apartment complexes where tenants live in close proximity to one another. Renting a stand-alone home or half of a duplex in a suburban or country setting is another option. Some landlords offer a rent-to-own option, which gives tenants the right to purchase a home for a previously agreed-upon price once the rental agreement expires. Tenants can also rent vacation property in a resort location, which may be an apartment or home.
Advantages
Renting has its advantages over home ownership. Renters aren't responsible for maintenance or property taxes, which landlords handle instead. A renter is also only charged with keeping the rental unit itself in good condition, with a landlord hiring a cleaning staff or gardeners to handle the building, grounds and common areas. Renting often gives tenants an opportunity to live in a city or neighborhood where they wouldn't be able to afford a home. It also supplies low-cost housing for individuals without the savings or good credit needed to get a mortgage.
Drawbacks
Renting housing does have certain drawbacks that would-be tenants need to be aware of. Unlike homeowners, who pay a monthly mortgage bill and gain equity in a home, renters have no equity to borrow against. When a tenant vacates an apartment, there is no recovery of the money paid in rent. Renters are also unable to profit from any value the rental property gains over time. Renting an apartment often means living in a smaller space or closer to neighbors than buying a home, arrangements which may not appeal to everyone.
Tenancy Agreements
It's vital that prospective tenants understand the tenancy agreement, or lease, a document that the landlord and tenant both sign. It outlines rental policies, including the cost of rent, the term of the lease (usually at least one year) and the duties and obligations of both the tenant and landlord. Some tenancy agreements require the tenant to waive the right to pursue legal action against the landlord, while others state that the tenant may not sublease the rental unit to anyone else. Tenants and landlords must come to a mutual agreement and understand the terms of a tenancy agreement fully before signing.
Problems
Problems can arise between tenants and landlords. While landlords may be willing to renegotiate a tenancy agreement or compromise to keep a tenant's business, it sometimes becomes necessary for the tenant to pursue legal action against the landlord. Each state has its own tenancy laws on the books, which outline the rights and responsibilities of all parties in a rental scenario. Contacting a lawyer with experience in tenancy law is the best first step should a serious disagreement arise. While some states may allow tenants to place money in escrow in lieu of paying rent while a dispute is resolved, no tenant should withhold rent without first contacting a lawyer. Failing to follow the process set out by law may be grounds for an eviction and can permanently damage a tenant's rental history, making it more difficult to rent or buy a home in the future.

Virtues of a Smaller Home - Part I

2011-01-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

A Smaller Home is Cheaper Up Front

A smaller initial cost means less down payment, less points on your mortgage and a smaller monthly payment for your budget. If you can swing it, putting more than 20 percent down might even get you a better interest rate and will certainly exempt you from private mortgage insurance, saving you a substantial amount.

A Smaller Home Saves Energy

So long as it's properly constructed and insulated, a smaller home has less cubic footage to heat and cook, provided you don't build one with 14 foot ceilings! Smaller homes have fewer windows (energy leaks), fewer exterior doors (energy leaks) and smaller HVAC systems to run which will help save energy.

A Smaller Home is Expandable

So long as you plan for it (and sometimes even if you don't) a smaller home can be expanded. If you think your parents may move in with you or you plan on growing your family plan to build a smaller home with an addition in mind.

A Smaller Home Could Leave More Room for a Garden

If you build a 1,200 square foot home rather than a 2,800 square foot home, you'll have more space to grow vegetable and flowers!

High Performance Windows Part II in Series: 6 Ways a New Home Will Cut Your Energy Bill

2011-01-10T13:48:00.000-08:00

Most people choose new windows based on appearance, style, convenience and price. Energy efficiency might not be a consideration, but this important factor actually should take top priority. Although high-performance windows initially cost more, they provide greater comfort, increase the value of your home and save you money in the long run. Heating and cooling expenses account for 44 percent of an average home’s energy bill. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), high-efficiency windows could reduce that bill by up to 25 percent. High-performance windows can even lower the cost of a new home because you may be able to install a smaller, less expensive heating and cooling system.

High-performance windows are available in such a wide array that the average homeowner might not know where to begin. “At last count, there were some 4,000 different window manufacturers in this country, so you have to look carefully,” says Bill Prindle, deputy director of the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. Unlike some household products, windows are relatively expensive and fairly permanent, so taking the time to become educated about the many choices will be time well spent.

There are several window rating systems. “They basically give you a benchmark of high efficiency for a given climate,” Prindle says. Energy Star is a government-backed program that distinguishes products that meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the DOE; the Energy Star label will help you find the best high-performance windows. The nonprofit National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) provides information for windows and skylights that are similar to fuel economy ratings on new cars. NFRC labels detail independent verification of product performance and allow homeowners, architects and builders to compare windows’ energy ratings. An NFRC rating is required in order to receive an Energy Star certification.

Another excellent source of objective information is the Efficient Windows Collaborative, which provides comprehensive information on the many features to consider when you buy windows. It will help you understand the basics of window energy transfer and how to interpret the manufacturer’s specifications. “It’s fairly nontechnical, and it can be a good resource for people who want to go into more depth than the Energy Star label,” Prindle says. (For more sources of information, see “High-performance Window Resources.”)
Explaining Efficiency

The rating systems help you evaluate three main factors that impact the energy efficiency of windows. The first is heat flow through the glass and frame, which is generated by the temperature difference between the inside of your home and the outside environment. This is often thought of as a winter issue, but it can be just as important in the summer — especially in hot climates. Heat transferred through a window is expressed with U-values; the lower the U-value, the better. The resistance to that heat flow is expressed as an R-value (the mathematical inverse of U). In general, the higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

This Cross section shows the construction of Energy Efficient windows that protect your home against outside temperatures.

Decorating with Sunny Yellow Continued

2011-01-09T17:16:00.000-08:00

Pick the right paint color and yellow can be dramatic, daring and surprisingly debonair. Here are some of the ways color-savvy designers prove that yellow isn't always mellow in their room design.
Think "New York" and you're apt to think taxicabs: the bright yellow fleet that dominates the landscape and lends the city much of its high-energy look.
"This apartment belongs to a modern-day 'it girl' and stockbroker to the stars," designer Barclay Fryery says. "And the rest of the rooms are camel, black, cream and white, just like her delicious clothes. But for the powder room, I wanted something lively and fresh and unexpectedly modern." Because there are no moldings to separate one plane from another, Fryery painted the ceiling the same color as the walls: Farrow and Ball's Dayroom Yellow #233.

"Surrounding the room in a single color adds a finished look," he says. "In a small powder room you always need to have a wow factor, so be bold, and be dramatic."

Decorating With Sunny Yellow Paint Colors

2011-01-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

Pick the right paint color and yellow can be dramatic, daring and surprisingly debonair. Here are some of the ways color-savvy designers prove that yellow isn't always mellow in their room design.

Soft and subdued, yellow is often used in babies' rooms and kitchens to create a calm, quiet place to begin a new life or to start the morning. But this versatile color is not just for the duck-and-bunny set or for old-fashioned spaces. Pick the right shade and yellow can be dramatic, daring and surprisingly debonair. Here are some of the ways color-savvy designers prove that yellow isn't always mellow.

Bold, bright and luscious, these mango walls were colored specifically for this space by San Francisco-based designer Martha Angus. The room is the living room in a pool house/guest house in Portola Valley, Calif., where the homeowners work in venture capital.

"The wife of the house is of Greek heritage," Angus says, "and she wanted a powerful, sunny color in the pool house." The room would also host large slumber parties for the clients' children, so it had to be fun, yet sophisticated.

That's where the mahogany floor and ceiling come in; the mango color was selected to work with the wood's tones. Selecting the right yellow to work with various woods can be tricky, Angus says. "I think an ash-blond wood should work with just about any color," she says, "but if the wood is warm toned (honey gold), then the wall color should be warm, too."

And of course, if you fall in love with yellow, a natural wood floor is not your only option. "My mother-in-law has a citron yellow living room and dining room," says Angus. "And she has black floors. It looks fabulous."

Modular Home Decor: COLORS!

2011-01-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

As we all know, color choices play an important role in our daily lives from the clothes we wear to the cars we drive. According to studies, our choice of one color over another color may have something to do with the way color makes us feel.

For this reason, color choices in our homes have a large impact on the comfort level. If you want your home to "feel" a certain way or bring out a person's mood, that can be done with color. Color can make a person feel relaxed, make a person happy, and even increase one's appetite.
For example, if you want your living room to make your family and guests feel peaceful, calm and relaxed, you might consider using blue. Blue brings out feelings of calm, peacefulness and stability. Blue is often used on websites and in business because it also represents reliability and loyalty. Green is also a good soothing, calming color. It represents nature, good health and cleanliness.

TODAYS COLOR: YELLOW

Yellow portrays the bliss of sunshine and communicates happiness. It feels expansive and welcoming. Yellow helps you concentrate and increase your metabolism. The color yellow is perfect for kitchens, dining rooms, hall, entries, and other small spaces.

High Performance Windows for Manufactured Homes

2011-01-07T06:56:00.000-08:00

To earn the Energy Star, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.

With homebuying increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants which contribute to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated.
The easy way to make sure a new home is energy efficient is to look for the blue Energy Star mark, the government backed symbol for energy efficiency. Learn more over the next few days about how the new homes at Homestead Oak can provide you with a level of comfort in knowning our homes carry the Energy Star seal of approval.

Step 2 In the Series 6 Ways a New Home will Save on Energy Bills

HIGH PERFORMANCE WINDOWS

Energy efficient windows employ advanced technologies, such as protective coatings and improved frames, to help keep heat in during winter and out during summer. These windows also block damaging ultraviolet sunlight that can discolor carpets and furnishings.

Windows provide natural daylight and views, but homeowners often use drapes or

blinds to cover them because of comfort concerns. ENERGY STAR qualified windows

and skylights allow owners to enjoy the light and views while saving money on utility

bills and protecting valuable furnishings and finishes from sun damage. Independently

tested for superior energy performance, ENERGY STAR qualified windows and

skylights are also better for the environment because lowering energy use helps

reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants at the source.

BENEFITS OF ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED WINDOWS AND SKYLIGHTS
•
technologies such as invisible glass coatings, vacuum-sealed spaces filled with inert gas
between the panes, improved framing materials, better weather stripping, and warm edge
spacers, all of which reduce undesirable heat gain
and loss.
Energy Savings. ENERGY STAR qualified windows and skylights feature advanced
•
windows, ENERGY STAR qualified windows help
keep homes warmer in the winter and cooler in
the summer. This is because they can block
70 percent or more of the solar heat gain in the
summer and reflect radiant heat indoors during
winter.
Improved Comfort. Compared to less efficient
•
furniture, flooring, and window treatments can
fade or discolor after repeated exposure to direct
sunlight. An ENERGY STAR qualified window
with special (Low-E) coatings can reduce fading.
These coatings can reduce fading by up to 75 percent.
Protection of Your Home's Interior. Photographs,
•
condense (or even freeze) on the interior surface and then pool on the sill. Over time,
chronic condensation can damage window sills, cause paint to crack, and encourage the
growth of mold. Advanced frames, glass coatings, spacers, and other technologies enable
ENERGY STAR qualified windows to keep the inner surface of the glass and frame warmer,
reducing the potential for condensation and ensuring a clearer view on winter mornings.
Reduced Condensation. If an inefficient window or window frame gets too cold, water can
Multiple panes
Low-E coating
Gas fill
Warm edge spacers
Improved
frame materials
Sample ENERGY STAR Label for Products
Qualified in All Climate Zones

LOOK FOR THE ENERGY STAR
To find energy-efficient windows and skylights,
simply look for the ENERGY STAR. The ENERGY
STAR guidelines for windows and skylights are
tailored to four climate zones. For example,
windows in the North are optimized to reduce
heat loss in the winter, while windows in the
South are optimized to reduce heat gain during
the summer. This explains why windows that are
energy efficient in Florida will not necessarily be
energy efficient in Michigan.

INDEPENDENT TESTING FOR ENERGY PERFORMANCE
The energy performance of all ENERGY STAR qualified windows and skylights is independently
tested and certified according to procedures established by the National Fenestration Rating
Council (NFRC). NFRC is a third party, non-profit organization that sponsors certified rating and
labeling programs to help consumers compare the energy and performance features of windows
and skylights.

A BETTER FUTURE
ENERGY STAR is a voluntary partnership between the government and more than 9,000
organizations, including more than 3,500 of the nation’s home builders. Together with home
buyers and their families, we are working to achieve a common goal—protecting the
environment for future generations by changing to more energy-efficient practices and
products today.
ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. It identifies new
homes, buildings, and more than 50 types of products that are energy efficient and offer the
features, quality, and performance that today’s consumers expect. Products that can earn the
ENERGY STAR include windows, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, and appliances. To
learn more about ENERGY STAR, visit
www.energystar.gov.

Decor Blog: Colors!

2011-01-06T13:00:00.000-08:00

As we all know, color choices play an important role in our daily lives from the clothes we wear to the cars we drive. According to studies, our choice of one color over another color may have something to do with the way color makes us feel.

For this reason, color choices in our homes have a large impact on the comfort level. If you want your home to "feel" a certain way or bring out a person's mood, that can be done with color. Color can make a person feel relaxed, make a person happy, and even increase one's appetite.

For example, if you want your living room to make your family and guests feel peaceful, calm and relaxed, you might consider using blue. Blue brings out feelings of calm, peacefulness and stability. Blue is often used on websites and in business because it also represents reliability and loyalty. Green is also a good soothing, calming color. It represents nature, good health and cleanliness.

More color posts to come…check back tomorrow! Hmmm…wonder what the rest of the rainbow will bring?

Design Bog: 12 Virtues of a Smaller Manufactured Home

2011-01-06T12:50:00.000-08:00

For the last 30 years or so, our homes have been growing. The square footage in the average home today is TWICE what is was during our parent’s grade school years and up until recently, this trend didn’t seem stoppable.

Then the bubble burst and we found out that we really didn’t need a 4,500 square foot home with amenities galore. The McMansion could be going the way of the mastodon as home buyers discover the joys of less maintenance, less cost and more family togetherness.

If you are considering building a new home and going smaller, there are some distinct advantages. A smaller home might just be the home of your dreams.

In the next few days we will be exploring the 12 virtues of small home ownership.

1. Effective Insulation in a Modular/Manurfactured Energy Star Home

2011-01-06T06:38:00.000-08:00

Properly installed and inspected insulation in floors, walls and attics, ensures even temperatures throughout the house, reduced energy use and increases comfort

Tired of the Cold? 6 Ways a New Home will Cut your Energy Bills

2011-01-05T12:25:00.000-08:00

Beat the Cold and Drafts with Energy Star Efficiency

6 Ways a new home will cut your energy bills:

1. High Tech Insulation
2. High Performance Windows
3. Tight Construction and Ducts
4. Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems
5. Efficient Appliances
6. Energy Efficient Lighting Systems

To earn the Energy Star, a home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.

With homebuying increasingly interested in green building, energy efficiency is the place to start. That's because the energy used in homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants which contribute to smog, acid rain, and risks of global warming. So, the less energy used, the less air pollution generated.

The easy way to make sure a new home is energy efficient is to look for the blue Energy Star mark, the government backed symbol for energy efficiency. Learn more over the next few days about how the new homes at Homestead Oak can provide you with a level of comfort in knowning our homes carry the Energy Star seal of approval.

Newest Addition to the Homestead Family: Mobile Home Parts Warehouse.com

2011-01-05T11:43:00.001-08:00

Let me take time to introduce the newest member of the Homestead Oak family. Our online parts store. Everything you could ever need and then some. We will be updating and adding to this site daily so you may want to keep the site stored in your Favorites. http://www.mobilehomepartswarehouse.com/

Celebrity Homes to Music

2011-01-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

"Prefabulous Manufactured Homes"

2011-01-03T11:53:00.000-08:00

We'd never agree to have a new car assembled in the driveway or a new dishwasher put together on the kitchen floor. Yet when it comes to houses, many of us assume one built on site is superior to one constructed in a factory.

Prefabulous Manufactured Homes offer evidence to the contrary.

Houses built using various types of prefabrication: modular construction, panelized construction, structural insulated panels, timber framing, log construction, concrete and steel are substantial homes -- mansions, in some cases -- where prefabrication was chosen as the means to building a better house.
Factory construction saves time, money and building materials, and can result in sturdy houses that require less energy and maintenance. Visit http://www.homesteadoak.com/ for more information.

Does Your Exhisting Home Meet Your Current Needs?

2010-12-13T19:33:00.000-08:00

I would be interested in blogging with you about what you would change if you could change anything about your current home. Let me know what it is and how your lifestyle has changed to effect your living arrangments or needs. I am here to listen.

Homestead Oak Daily Buzz

Now Is the Time to Buy that New Home

Homestead Oak Spring Decorating- Designer Tips to Freshen Up Your Home for Spring

Homestead Oak - 8 Reasons Why Now Might be the Best Time Ever to Build a New Home

Spring is the Air....Well we Hope!

Homestead Oak - Heart Felt Thank You Letter from Mona and Duke

Why Modular Homes Make Sense

Pennwest Quality Homes by Edith Metts

Introducing Mona's Story - A Story of a Mother's Love

Radiant Floor Heating

See for Yourself - Quality Stunning Homes by Commodore

Homestead Oak is Going Green Irene!

"Welcome Home" by Homestead Oak

Are You Ready to Begin Planning for a New Home?

More Single Women Buy Homes Than Ever Before - What Do Single Women Want?

Three Rules for Adding White Detail to Any Room in Your Home by Nate Berkus

The Art of Sub-Division By George Duke

“SUBDIVISION”- any reduction in size of a parcel or tract of land by dividing it into 2 or more smaller pieces.

The Pennwest Homes Advantage

The Pennwest Homes Advantage

Pennwest Available Color Palette for Homestead Oak, Inc.

BUILDING MATERIAL COSTS ARE LOW BUT MAY BE RISING. ANOTHER REASON TO BUY YOUR HOME NOW.

MORTGAGE RATES HOLDING ABOUT .5% HIGHER THAN OCTOBER 2010 LOWS

BUILDING MATERIAL COSTS ARE LOW...BUT MAY BE RISING. ANOTHER REASON TO BUY YOUR HOME NOW

PRICE VS. VALUE

CLARIFYING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SITE BUILT,MODULAR AND MANUFACTURED HOME

Can I Build a New Home with Less Than 20% Down?

What is the Difference between a Sectional & Modular Home????? By George Duke

Sectional

Modular

Woman’s Influence in a Buyers Market

Front Entrance

Rear Foyer

Garages

Kitchens

Size & Space

Sealing Ducts

How to Sell Your Home in a Lousy Market

AN INTRODUCTION TO YOUR CONSTRUCTION LOAN

Air Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR

Sealing Leaks

Adding Insulation

KCMA CERTIFIED CABINETS

Home Decor Hand Crafted by Local Artesans for Sale

Efficient Heating Equipment Part 4: Series 6 Ways a New Home will Cut Your Energy Bills

Virtues of Owning a Smaller Home Continued

Part Three: "Tight Construction and Ducts" in the Series "6 Ways a New Home will Cut Your Energy Bill"

Design Trends for an Emerging Housing Market

Rent vs. Buying A Home

Overview

Types

Advantages

Drawbacks

Tenancy Agreements

Problems

Virtues of a Smaller Home - Part I

High Performance Windows Part II in Series: 6 Ways a New Home Will Cut Your Energy Bill

Decorating with Sunny Yellow Continued

Decorating With Sunny Yellow Paint Colors

Modular Home Decor: COLORS!

High Performance Windows for Manufactured Homes

Decor Blog: Colors!

Design Bog: 12 Virtues of a Smaller Manufactured Home

1. Effective Insulation in a Modular/Manurfactured Energy Star Home

Tired of the Cold? 6 Ways a New Home will Cut your Energy Bills

Newest Addition to the Homestead Family: Mobile Home Parts Warehouse.com

Celebrity Homes to Music

"Prefabulous Manufactured Homes"

Does Your Exhisting Home Meet Your Current Needs?