Home remodeling show kicks off in Fort Lauderdale

Several new homeowners paced the floors of the Broward County Convention Center Friday checking out hot tubs, solar panels, paintings and other home features during the kickoff day of the Fort Lauderdale Home Design and Remodeling Show.

"I'm looking to add new things and I'm making changes and upgrades," said Carol Bell, 58, who bought a new townhouse in Plantation eight months ago.

Bell's must-see list included laminate flooring and home security system exhibits.

She had plenty of choices.

The home and remodeling show features 750 booths offering a wide range of home products and services, including sliding doors, hurricane windows and interior design consults.

This year's lineup includes Hollywood-based Solar Quest USA, offering energy efficient products, Boca Bath & Kitchens Inc., showcasing faucets and cabinets, and Fantastic Windows, displaying different types of drapes and blinds.

Joanne Cutrofello, owner and president of Parkland-based Fantastic Windows, said new construction in Broward and in Palm Beach counties has brought "a lot of opportunities" for companies like hers in the home remodeling industry.

"A lot of people are buying new homes with nothing in it," Cutrofello said. "And others are ready to redecorate. They aren't afraid to spend. They're ready to spend."

Marina Amis, 50, stopped by the convention center Friday to check out patio furniture and landscaping for her new home in Hollywood.

"This gives you great new ideas and you get to see a lot of new products that are now in the market," Amis said.

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Home remodeling show kicks off in Fort Lauderdale