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...

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....

A year ago, few of us ever heard of a “Derecho”; now, faced with fallen trees, damaged property and even a few deaths, Derecho – meaning super-strong windstorm – is a household word. One we really never want to hear -or see – again. Who is responsible if your neightor’s tree falls on your property? The general rule is that unless the neighbor knew – or should have known – that his tree was unsafe...

As a member of the real estate industry for more than 30 years, I’ve never seen the market bounce back as well as it did in 2013. It was a great year for the real estate industry including agents, sellers and buyers. One of the best indicators for housing is new construction, and it took a huge leap in 2013. Purchases of new homes surged towards the end of the year. In October, sales jumped 25.4% to an annualized pace of 444,000 nationally....

Prices are rising and perhaps there are fewer homes for sale where you want to live. What can you do to put the odds in your favor? First, get preapproved by a lender. That means sharing your financial information, going online and playing with a mortgage calculator. Give the lender the documentation they need, such as salary stubs, revolving credit obligations, and bank statements. You’ll know for certain how much you can afford, how...