Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Streamlined Clean Water Act Permits in Jeopardy

While a new definition for “waters of the United States” is still on hold, it’s the elephant in the room for home builders and developers, NAHB told the Army Corps of Engineers in response to its proposal to reissue Clean Water Act Section 404 nationwide permits.

Communities Where More than the Grass is Greener

The ICC/ASHRAE 700-2015 National Green Building Standard (NGBS) was released in March. This post is the second in a series of eight that will examine what’s different in this new edition – and what’s changed in the world of sustainable construction since the 2012 NGBS. This week: Updates to Site Design and Development.

Monday, August 1, 2016

Building Systems Week Kicks Off Today

Starting today through Aug. 5, NAHB and members of the Building Systems Councils are taking additional steps through networking and education opportunities to inform builders, remodelers and consumers about the advantages of systems-built homes.

CFPB Proposes Updates to “Know Before You Owe” Rule

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on July 29 released proposed updates to its “Know Before You Owe” mortgage disclosure rule, also known as the TILA/RESPA Integrated Disclosure rule or TRID.

That Kitchen Remodel Is Not a DIY Project

You can transform your drab kitchen into a room with more space, more room for creativity, and a beautiful area to work in or show off to guests. Your kitchen should be convenient and inspiring. If it’s not, you deserve a remodel.

But we always advise that people find a professional contractor before they begin the process. Someone with an extensive portfolio and plenty of experience remodeling kitchens in the past can better ensure that all of the components are in place properly, that the job is completed on time, and that everything looks great and works well.

Ensure the job goes smoothly

One reason to consult with professionals and use contractors throughout the process is efficiency. The job cannot move along efficiently if you don’t have a plan in place. And professional contractors know to plan for the worst.

There’s no comparison to the follow-through and to the professional service you’ll get from an experienced contractor. They’ll know timelines for permits, ordering products and equipment, when they’ll need plumbers and technicians, and how quickly each part of the job can be completed. They also have the right tools and can make sure that you know what to do while your kitchen is out of commission.

Make the room look professional

If you ever want to resell your home, it’s not worth spending a ton of money on an amateur remodel just to have to redo it later. If a kitchen remodel is not completed properly, it may not sell for much, and you might just have to spend more to fix your issues. Get the professional touch and make sure that everything fits just right and that your new kitchen has a draw for future residents as well.

Call Advanced Builders & Contractors for excellent service in Westwood and throughout the LA area from licensed and bonded contractors.

Obama Signs Key Housing Legislation into Law

President Obama on July 29 signed into law legislation that includes many NAHB-supported bipartisan fixes to HUD programs.

The Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act of 2016 contains a number of reforms to increase access to affordable rental housing, provide assistance to low-income renters and facilitate homeownership. Working with Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate, NAHB led the charge to advance this bill through Congress.

Best IBS Registration Deals Happen in August

Registration for the 2017 NAHB International Builders’ Show opens today. With more than 1,300 suppliers, it’s the place to see the latest in home innovation, newest products, get high-quality education and business building networking opportunities.