The rich patina of wood floors adds beauty and elegance to any home. Older homes were once routinely constructed with hardwood floors, but that practice was abandoned in the 1950s, when new technologies made wall-to-wall carpeting available. Builders were able to build more homes faster, for the post-war baby boom, and save money on labor. But today, many homeowners prefer hardwoods to carpet. Hardwoods help give the impression that your home...

            Rev up the DeLorean and get set to go back to the future! The same decade that spawned countless classics like Top Gun, Miami Vice and Charlie’s Angels is now back in style when it comes to home interior design. While some ’80s trends — like pastel colors and neon socks — might make us shudder, others — like funky patterns and kitchen tables — deserve a second chance. Here’s a look at some ’80s trends...

A renter paying $900 per month for rent will pay their landlord $54,000 over 5 1ears! With that same monthly payment this renter could be a homeowner building equity and reducing taxes. A renter paying $900 per month could potentially buy a home in the price range of $120,000 to $135,000 (depending on borrower’s credit score and debts) and not increase their monthly payment (based on a $130,000 sales price, 3.875% 30 year fixed rate with an ARP...

Everyone has that favorite outfit, business suit, dress, tie or scarf. When that favorite piece of clothing also happens to be in your best color, you can become invincible. In sales, success hinges on confidence. When your confidence is soaring, it’s the ideal opportunity for prospecting and/or closing on sales. Knowing the color or designer that gives you that added confidence is crucial to your individual success and closing abilities....

Before you pour your savings into a new kitchen and a rainforest shower for the master, think about whether or not you’ll be able to recoup your investment when it comes time to sell.   If you have equity in your home, you can make improvements, but don’t go over the limit of what other buyers can spend for a home similar to yours in your neighborhood.   While it’s tempting to make your home more beautiful, you have...