Skylight leak? No, it’s probably a condensation issue.

I’m convinced that most moisture issues with skylights are condensation issues that are misdiagnosed as leaks. To start with, skylights are notorious for leaks among roofers. I’ve heard roofers say “There are two types of skylights: those that leak, and those that are going to leak.” I think they’re usually referring to the old bubble-type.

Controlling boxelder bugs: a discussion with BOGO Pest Control

Scott Dorn from BOGO Pest Control, my go-to guy for pests, told me a few weeks ago that boxelder bugs were going to be bad news this year. I’ve gotten to know Scott quite well over the past year, even having him come out to teach at our local ASHI chapter. He’s passionate about pest.

What you need to know about qualifying for a mortgage (INFOGRAPHIC)

You don’t need a 20% down payment! You don’t need perfect credit! Down payment assistance programs are available! Talk to a lender to see what you qualify for!

Bits ‘n’ Pieces from Mid-Century and Modern Tour Day 2017

Angela and I made our annual outing yesterday to visit the homes in Tour Day 2017 of Docomomo (the International Committee for the DOcumentation and COnservation of buildings, sites, and neighborhoods of the MOdern MOvement). There were seven homes in this year’s tour, all fascinating as usual and including homes in University Grove as well.

Re-Purposing to Create Interesting Succulent Arrangements

If you haven’t noticed, succulents are really in right now. There are even stores having succulent parties to pick your containers and plant them right at the store. I do like them and although it is really tough to kill a succulent, I can do it. This real one sat in my Mom’s condo.

When is the best time to find foreclosure listings?

A client recently asked me where all the foreclosure listings have gone. If you look at the chart below, you can see that in 2009 and 2011 there were months when there more foreclosure sales than traditional sales. That time is gone. In August only 2.1% of sales were foreclosures. But regardless of the market.

How much home can I buy?

This is the question I get asked most by homebuyers – especially first time homebuyers. I usually turn it around a bit and ask them what they are comfortable with in a house payment. Then we talk about it! The reality is I can qualify you based on your income and debt but that payment.

Wednesdays Unplugged – Apple Spiced Pork Medallions

“As individuals we are inextricably linked together.” ~ Walker Art Center NOTE: I spend my Wednesdays Unplugged from appointments. It’s my day to stay home, enjoy cooking and welcome our kids and grandkids for dinner in the evening. We end our meal with quotes from the Norwegian ‘Quote Cup’ passed on to me from my grandmother. I.

Bonding gas piping

When it comes to people, ‘potential’ is a good thing. When it comes to gas piping, not so much. Specifically, electrical potential. In fact, that applies to all metal piping systems inside a home. Anytime there is electrical potential between different systems, there’s a possibility for shock, fire, damage to equipment or electrocution. All bad.

What home price ranges have increased in value the most?

The latest home sales report from the National Association of Realtors puts the median existing-home price at an annual increase of 5.6%. CoreLogic revealed that national home prices have increased by 6.7% and the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors reported an increase of 6.8% year-over-year in August. CoreLogic broke it down even more, looking at.

Excelsior… small-town lakeside living only 30 minutes from downtown Minneapolis

Minnesota is known as the ‘land of lakes’ and Lake Minnetonka is the grandaddy of Twin Cities lakes, with 140 miles of meandering lakeshore. Nestled on the south shore of Lake Minnetonka is the charming, historic village of Excelsior, the first city to incorporate on Lake Minnetonka. Founded in the 1850’s as a vacation community,.

Minnesota Ranked Happiest State

Happiness is determined by many things, but studies have found that good economic, emotional, physical and social health are all key to a person’s overall well-being and satisfaction. WalletHub examined all 50 states across 28 key metrics, ranging from depression rate to sports participation rate to income growth… and Minnesota came out on top for.

Tour 7 wonderful modern and mid-century modern homes – October 7, 2017

It is time for the annual curated Docomomo tour of wonderful modern and mid-century modern homes in the Twin Cities… this year on Saturday, October 7 from 10 am to 4 pm. Docomomo US/MN has seven wonderful modern and midcentury modern homes open to tour ticket holders for Tour Day 2017… Saturday, October 7,.

What is the difference between “pre-approved” and “pre-qualified”?

Are you looking for a new home? Are you going to need a mortgage? Once you start thinking about buying a new home, it helps to get your finances in order. Most realtors want you to get a mortgage approval before they start showing you homes. What does that mean? What is the difference between.

Wednesdays Unplugged – Plain Baked Yams

“You should limit the number of times you act against your nature.” ~ Jenny Holzer NOTE: I spend my Wednesdays Unplugged from appointments. It’s my day to stay home, enjoy cooking and welcome our kids and grandkids for dinner in the evening. We end our meal with quotes from the Norwegian ‘Quote Cup’ passed on to me from.

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