So what’s it worth? The cost vs. value of home remodeling.

Anyone who has lived through the dust from home remodeling can tell you that without the proper planning, your ideas for a dream home can turn into a nightmare.  Approaching any home improvement project with an understanding of what you want, what is possible and the value it will add to your property will help you make the best educated decisions at each step in the process.

Every year, Remodeling Magazine produces a Cost vs. Value Report which analyzes the average cost of the 35 most popular remodeling projects and the potential value added to a home.  The information is broken down by region (DC, MD & VA fall within the South Atlantic Region) so the figures are applicable to our area.

Within your research for renovating, remodeling or adding-on to your home take a look at the average cost of your project type and the return on investment (ROI) you’re likely to see if ever selling your home.  If you have questions along the way, give us a call – we’re always happy to help!  And when the time comes to pursue your dream project we’ll be here ready to assist you with finding the best contractor for the job.

We’re happy to be here…now let’s get down to business!

Here you have it – our very first blog post.  John and I have been busy learning the nuances of the business since taking over this past October.  We’re excited to use this platform to bring you useful information about home remodeling and repairs; DIY tips and tricks and industry related news.  Our goal is to be your trusted resource for helpful home improvement information and maybe, just maybe, make you smile every now and then.  We welcome your ideas and feedback so don’t be shy.  Give us a call or send us an e-mail to let us know what you want more information about.  Now let’s get down to business…

Looking For Easy To Find, Contractor Friendly And Accurate Information About The RRP Rule?

The EPA’s extension on the RRP certification has expired – do not forget about getting your certification.

Click here for critical / current information by an industry expert.

Happy Remodeling!

Marla

Urban Referrals refer a friend promo! Our way of saying thanks….

Urban Referrals greatly appreciates you sending your friends, family, neighbors and associates (you get the picture) to Urban Referrals.

To show our appreciation we will send you a thank you gift!* When the person you refer hires a company from the Urban Referrals network we will send you $25.00. If the project is greater than $15,000 we will send you $50.00.

Please ask anyone you refer to provide your name when they talk with someone from our team.

BIG FAVOR – we realize it’s human nature to refer a company you’ve had an excellent experience with to those in need of that company’s services. We ask that you send people to Urban Referrals instead of directly to the company you hired through us. This enables us to: 1) make sure they are still licensed, insured 2) Verify they are EPA RRP certified (if appropriate) and 3) conducting proper business practices. Additionally, we can connect your friends/neighbors/other with a company that is a perfect match for their project goals, budget and time frame. Thank you very much!

Happy Remodeling!

Marla

*promotion ends 12/31/2010

Refer someone to Urban Referrals and receive money!

My team and I greatly appreciate you recommending our service to your friends, family, neighbors and associates (you get the point – lol).

To show our appreciation we will send you a thank you gift!

When the person you refer hires a company from the Urban Referrals Network we will send you $25.00. If the project is greater than $15,000 we will send you $50.00.

Please ask anyone you refer to us to provide your name when they talk with someone from our team.

BIG FAVOR – We request that you send people to Urban Referrals instead of directly to the company you hired from our network. We realize it is human nature to refer a company to those in need of their services thus emailing you about this today. Why do we ask this?

Urban Referrals makes sure that companies in our network are:

• Current with their appropriate licensing and insurance.
• Have their EPA RRP certification and are registered with the EPA (if appropriate).
• Are conducting proper business practices.
• Are the best fit for your friend/neighbor/others project goals, time frame and budget.
• Urban Referrals can continue to connect DC metro area consumers with reliable and quality home remodeling companies!

We look forward to sending you money!

Happy remodeling –

Marla

Want to save $3,400 and eliminate 108 lbs of waste?

In honor of Earth Day I wanted to share information on products I use in my home that my husband and I love!

Do you want to……..

• Save that $3,400!
• Eliminate 108 pounds of packaging waste from landfills.
• Eliminate 248 pounds of greenhouse gas.

Introducing Get Clean products by Shaklee – Safe for you, your home, and your planet.(TM)

If these products are good enough for the team at Urban Referrals, the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Jacques Cousteau Society, NASA, the White House, the Vice President’s residence, Oprah, hundreds of celebrities and many, many others they are definitely good enough for YOU! Tested, proven, smart for your wallet, and they work.

Get Clean products are only available through independent distributors. For more information or to order contact:

Victoria Torok – Shaklee Director
Phone: 303.369.5378
Email: Victoria@EliteMobileFit.com

Happy Remodeling!

Marla

Homeowner’s! Extended Energy Tax Credits Through 12/31/2010

“Energy-efficient appliances and products provide many benefits such as lower energy bills, increased indoor comfort, and reduced air pollution” www.energy.gov

For all qualified upgrades, the credit is 30% of the covered cost up to a $1500 total credit. The house must be your principal residence and the credits don’t apply to new construction. Other, upgrade-specific restrictions apply, so see the Energy Star site for details.

• Energy Efficient Windows and Doors, including many Storm Doors and Skylights. Cost eligible for the tax credit does not include installation costs. Certain other restrictions (like U-value and IECC qualifications apply).
• Water Heaters. Credit includes installation costs; some restrictions for energy efficiency apply.
• Metal and Asphalt Roofs. Credit does Not include installation costs. The roof must be highly energy efficient (asphalt roofs must have cooling granules, for instance).
• Insulation, whether spray foam, fiberglass, or blow-in cellulose, they’re all covered so long as they meet IECC requirements. Installation cost is NOT covered.
• HVAC Components, including certain Advanced Air Handlers, Air Force Heat Pumps, Central A/C Units, Boilers, Propane, and Gas Furnaces. Tax credits include installation costs.
• Biomass Stoves.