In today's hottest housing markets, springing for a kitchen or bathroom remodel is a surefire way to score a return on your investment, often returning 100 percent of the cost. According to a recent study, San Diego, Chicago, Atlanta and San Francisco are just a few of the cities that offer triple-digit returns on a bathroom remodel. Minor kitchen remodels, with an average cost of $15,000 also provided returns of 100 percent or greater in many of these markets.

Kitchens and bathrooms are areas in a home where money spent on remodeling can be the most obvious and appreciated, as we tend to spend much of our time in these rooms.

The first step in a remodeling project is to establish a realistic budget and actively manage it. Preparing for a remodeling project is similar to buying a new car; you may know the make and model of the one you want, however adding options may increase the price.

At Gay Realty Watch, we look for news to share with you about the gay real estate market - both lgbt real estate news and news specific to gay and lesbian real estate meccas.

Authored By Ron Monigold - See the Full Story at LGBT Weekly

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Considering a Remodel to Help Sell Your Home?

Miami-based kitchen supply retailer selected to partner with hit A&E home remodeling show, Sell This House: Extreme in recent Miami episodes.

Miami, FL (PRWEB) March 08, 2013

Long-running, popular show airs on the A&E network and features home renovation and staging projects to help show participants sell their home in difficult markets. The show selected Kitchens on Clearance as the Miami provider of kitchen remodeling materials and services.

Were excited to work with Sell This House: Extreme, said a representative from Kitchens on Clearance. Were known for not only our high-quality products, but also our dedication to giving customers the kitchen of their dreams quickly and efficiently, which is a model that works perfectly with the show.

Kitchens on Clearance was also selected because of their exceptionally quick delivery time and their featured products including ready-to-assemble, discount kitchen cabinets, all of which are high quality and solid wood. The company typically offers online-based remodels for customers from their site, KitchensOnClearance.com. Shipping and design services are available to customers throughout the United States, Canada and the islands, and the company is currently offering free shipping on orders over $2,500. The company is also unveiling a new policy that states that a representative will contact customers with further details including the design, layout and picture of what the kitchen will look like within 24 to 48 hours after any design inquiry is placed.

Kitchens on Clearance, in addition to offering speedy service on kitchen designs and remodels, and top-notch products at a discounted rate, is also working hard to help speed the housing recovery, and the sites spokesperson feels working with a high visibility show like Sell This House: Extreme will be the perfect opportunity to bring light to the recovery of the industry.

We provide discounts and special offers because as a member of the housing and real estate industry, we realize how important a full recovery is, said the sites spokesperson. With shows like Sell This House: Extreme, consumers are more motivated to enter the housing market, and begin buying and selling, so were excited to partner with the show to help in the housing recovery, that will benefit the entire country.

Sarah Lander KitchensOnClearance.com 305.436.1827 Email Information

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Miami-Based Kitchen Remodel Supply Company, Kitchens On Clearance, Chosen to Partner with A&E’s “Sell This House ...

Trips to resorts and other out-of-town attractions aren't out of the question, but as seen and heard at this year's Greater Tulsa Home & Garden Show, more people are looking toward home as their vacation destination. From outdoor kitchens to pools and hot tubs, decorative landscaping, kitchen updates and bathroom remodels, "people are investing in their homes," said Scott Gideon, this year's show chairman.

The theme of this year's event is "Find Your Oasis," and for Gideon, he'll tell you quickly, his oasis is his backyard.

That oasis is often an expansion of your property's livable space, past the four walls of the house and into the yard.

"People aren't traveling like they used to," said Matt Cobb of Oklahoma Landscape. "They want to create a place where their kids can bring their friends over."

Cobb said for the family on a budget, or one interested in building on their oasis one feature at a time, starting with an outdoor kitchen may be a good idea.

But "there are so many possibilities," Cobb said.

Even starting with a focus on your yard is a good place, he said, adding that yard health is Oklahoma Landscape's big focus this year.

A pretty yard means more curb appeal, no weeds, a safe place for kids and pets, and even a good talking point for the neighbors, Cobb said.

Your oasis can be as simple as a well-kept yard, colorful with a flower garden, resort-inspired with waterfalls and a pool or hot tub, or cookout-friendly with an outdoor kitchen. Your oasis could also be upgrades for your indoor kitchen or a remodel of your home's bathrooms.

Original Print Headline: Escape to your backyard

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At-home oasis big trend at Tulsa Home & Garden Show

Deadly Snowmobile Crash in Wexford County Deadly Snowmobile Crash in Wexford County

Updated: Friday, March 8 2013 7:53 PM EST2013-03-09 00:53:59 GMT

Police responded to a deadly snowmobile crash in Wexford County earlier today.The accident happened on Trail #35 near Fairchild Creek in Cherry Grove Township.The driver was pronounced dead at the scene after his snowmobile left the trail and hit a tree.Police say the accident is still under investigation and they are not releasing the driver's name until family members are notified.

Police responded to a deadly snowmobile crash in Wexford County earlier today.The accident happened on Trail #35 near Fairchild Creek in Cherry Grove Township.The driver was pronounced dead at the scene after his snowmobile left the trail and hit a tree.Police say the accident is still under investigation and they are not releasing the driver's name until family members are notified.

Updated: Friday, March 8 2013 9:48 PM EST2013-03-09 02:48:13 GMT

A glimmer of hope for a town that's seen its fair share of troubles. Like many communities in northern Michigan, Lake County's Baldwin really struggled during the recession. But the downturn of the

A glimmer of hope for a town that's seen its fair share of troubles. Like many communities in northern Michigan, Lake County's Baldwin really struggled during the recession. But the downturn of the

Updated: Thursday, March 7 2013 5:09 PM EST2013-03-07 22:09:08 GMT

Three men arrested for home invasion last week are now charged with shoplifting from several stores in Isabella County.Police say James Chandler, John Merchant, and Jaylen Miles stole up to $20,000 worth of merchandise from several Mount Pleasant stores.Last week the trio along with Dustin Brown were charged with a home break-in.Now police say all four stole merchandise from Dunham's, Meijer, Dick's Sporting Goods, Wal-Mart, and K-Mart in Mount Pleasant over a 6 month span.

Three men arrested for home invasion last week are now charged with shoplifting from several stores in Isabella County.Police say James Chandler, John Merchant, and Jaylen Miles stole up to $20,000 worth of merchandise from several Mount Pleasant stores.Last week the trio along with Dustin Brown were charged with a home break-in.Now police say all four stole merchandise from Dunham's, Meijer, Dick's Sporting Goods, Wal-Mart, and K-Mart in Mount Pleasant over a 6 month span.

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45th Annual Home Show Kicks Off in Isabella County

Deadly Snowmobile Crash in Wexford County Deadly Snowmobile Crash in Wexford County

Updated: Friday, March 8 2013 7:53 PM EST2013-03-09 00:53:59 GMT

Police responded to a deadly snowmobile crash in Wexford County earlier today.The accident happened on Trail #35 near Fairchild Creek in Cherry Grove Township.The driver was pronounced dead at the scene after his snowmobile left the trail and hit a tree.Police say the accident is still under investigation and they are not releasing the driver's name until family members are notified.

Police responded to a deadly snowmobile crash in Wexford County earlier today.The accident happened on Trail #35 near Fairchild Creek in Cherry Grove Township.The driver was pronounced dead at the scene after his snowmobile left the trail and hit a tree.Police say the accident is still under investigation and they are not releasing the driver's name until family members are notified.

Updated: Friday, March 8 2013 9:48 PM EST2013-03-09 02:48:13 GMT

A glimmer of hope for a town that's seen its fair share of troubles. Like many communities in northern Michigan, Lake County's Baldwin really struggled during the recession. But the downturn of the

A glimmer of hope for a town that's seen its fair share of troubles. Like many communities in northern Michigan, Lake County's Baldwin really struggled during the recession. But the downturn of the

Updated: Thursday, March 7 2013 5:09 PM EST2013-03-07 22:09:08 GMT

Three men arrested for home invasion last week are now charged with shoplifting from several stores in Isabella County.Police say James Chandler, John Merchant, and Jaylen Miles stole up to $20,000 worth of merchandise from several Mount Pleasant stores.Last week the trio along with Dustin Brown were charged with a home break-in.Now police say all four stole merchandise from Dunham's, Meijer, Dick's Sporting Goods, Wal-Mart, and K-Mart in Mount Pleasant over a 6 month span.

Three men arrested for home invasion last week are now charged with shoplifting from several stores in Isabella County.Police say James Chandler, John Merchant, and Jaylen Miles stole up to $20,000 worth of merchandise from several Mount Pleasant stores.Last week the trio along with Dustin Brown were charged with a home break-in.Now police say all four stole merchandise from Dunham's, Meijer, Dick's Sporting Goods, Wal-Mart, and K-Mart in Mount Pleasant over a 6 month span.

Link:
45th Annual Home Show Kicks Off

*Petaluma Construction* Remodel Contractors and Home Remodelers "Marin County" Santa Rosa
sticksandstonesconstr.com Petaluma Construction contractors, Stick and Stones Construction specialize in kitchen remodels, bath remodels, new home construction, home makeovers and remodeling in Petaluma, Santa Rosa, all throughout Sonoma County and Marin County, California. http

By: Bill Lage

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*Petaluma Construction* Remodel Contractors and Home Remodelers "Marin County" Santa Rosa - Video

Thursday, February 21st, 2013 Issue 08, Volume 17.

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen Co, Inc. has been remodeling homes locally for 10 years and owner Tony Raia takes pride in the companys top-notch craftsmanship and impeccable service.

As a general contractor with a business previously located in Laguna Niguel, Raia relocated his home and business in 2003, after he and his wife Carol ended up liking the atmosphere of Fallbrook.

Remodeling a "working" room, such as a kitchen or bath, definitely brings some adjustments while the project is being completed. Since kitchen and bath remodels usually take Raia four weeks to accomplish, he tries to help alleviate the inconveniences of the temporary absence of the facilities. He has sometimes provided a temporary sink while the countertops are being installed, in consideration of his clients.

Organization and planning are crucial to a successful remodel. Raia said he will not start the project until the cabinets are "en route," and the other materials have been obtained. Raia also prides himself on trying to keep the workspace as clean as possible, since remodeling can create dust.

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen is a general contracting firm, and therefore rarely needs to use subcontractors. From the project design phase, through the installation phase, Raias company provides plumbing, electrical, carpentry, tile and stonework, as well as cabinet installation, lighting, and refinishing. There are certain items that Raia insists be constructed a specific way, such as a shower pan. Raia says that he does not use prefabricated pans or fiberglass tubs, and has a certain standard for other elements in the bath as well. Instead of installing "greenboard" or "Hardibacker," he uses a specific method that involves cement, which is widely used in Europe and by other meticulous contractors in the industry.

"We like to work on bathrooms that end Advertisement [ Pala Mesa Resort ] up looking like spa-baths." said Raia.

When asked about his relationships with clients, Raia said, "You must treat people in the right way. They have invited you into their home. Every prospective client that I meet, I ask to call my referral list."

Whether returning a call, writing up an estimate, or arriving at the jobsite, punctuality is very important to Raia. Many of his clients end up contacting him for other projects such as windows, doors, flooring, entertainment centers, and fireplace makeovers.

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen is in the process of a transition, with Raia planning on handing over the reins to his son-in-law, Matthew Bellafaire. Bellafaire has worked with Raia for 13 years, and has now become a partner in Raias business.

Excerpt from:
Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen: quality craftsmanship, efficient project management

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has released the top 10 kitchen and bath design trends to watch out for in the coming year. The annual design trends survey witnessed participation from over 300 American and Canadian member-designers, who reported the materials, product types, and design styles they specified over the final three months of 2012.

"As members of the NKBA, the kitchen and bath industry's foremost professional association, our designers demonstrate comprehensive knowledge in kitchen and bath design," said John Morgan, 2013 NKBA president. "They excel in evaluating homeowners' specific needs and creating designs that inspire. It will be interesting to discover the trends that emerge from the rich experience of these creative, talented individuals."

The overall design trends identified for 2012 included gray color schemes in both kitchens and baths. Used currently in 55 percent of kitchens and 55 percent of bathrooms, gray tones have escalated since 2010 and over the past year.

Continuing a previous trend, transitional-style kitchens and baths have surpassed traditional styles, a longstanding favorite until 2012. While the use of quartz finishes was in slight decline last year, it has surfaced as a trendsetter this year second only to granite.

The survey showed no growth in consumer outlays. According to the latest report, homeowners were spending more on their kitchen and bath remodels a year ago. The total cost of the average kitchen and of the average bath design in 2012 was $51,050 and $18,575, respectively, but the most recent figures have dipped to $47,308 in kitchens, while staying steady at $18,538 in bathrooms.

A few of the other top trending design components include white painted cabinetry, glass backsplashes, LED lighting, touch-activated faucets and satin-nickel finishes in kitchens; and ceramic/porcelain tiles and undermount sinks in bathrooms.

For further details, download the full 2013 NKBA Kitchen and Bath Style Report here.

Pictured: Alno's AlnoStar Cera kitchen

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NKBA Reveals Top 10 Industry Trends for 2013

The kitchen range is one of the most versatile and oft-used appliances in the kitchen, but with trends moving toward big, professional quality kitchen appliances it can be hard to know what features are important for every-day home cooking. HomeThangs.com suggests a few tips to make the decision a little easier.

(PRWEB) February 27, 2013

The kitchen range is one of the most versatile and oft-used appliances in the kitchen. But with trends moving toward big, professional quality kitchen appliances it can be hard to know what features are important for every-day home cooking. HomeThangs.com suggests a few tips to make the decision a little easier.

1. High Powered Gas Ranges.

Serious cooks and chefs of all skill levels agree that gas ranges offer superior power, responsiveness, and heating time compared with electric burners. Gas burners are the first feature to look for, both in conventional and luxury or professional quality kitchen ranges. For more advanced cooks, gas burners with two rings of flame offer a wider range of possible temperatures and are more energy efficient, while sealed burners are easier to clean than conventional models.

2. Cookware.

If its at all possible, comparing the size of the burners on a prospective kitchen range against the size of the most-used cookware can definitely improve the purchasing process. Both skillets and burners are theoretically standard sized, but how well certain pans sit on certain cooktops can vary quite a bit. To get the best results, it is important to ensure that each pan sits flat on the burner and covers it completely.

3. Accessories.

More than ever, these days kitchen ranges are being designed to be multi-taskers. With grills, griddle plates, wok rings and more that can be added to the cooktop, as well as rotisseries and multi-function ovens, many modern luxury kitchen ranges can do a whole lot more than just heat and bake. To help eliminate extraneous appliances and maximize the utility of the kitchen range, it is important to make a point to see which features, if any, each specific range includes.

4. Oven Capacity Isnt Everything.

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HomeThangs.com Introduces a Tip Sheet to Choosing a New Kitchen Range

A Florida-based home improvement company has started a national campaign that promises to help anyone beautify their kitchen in 7-10 days. This is especially important during the fast moving, real estate market rebound.

Miami, FL (PRWEB) February 26, 2013

Everyone deserves to have a nice kitchen, but often times it takes weeks or months for most people to get their kitchen looking like they really want it to look, said a spokesman for KitchenOnCleanrance.com, a leading Ready-To-Assemble cabinet and home improvement company, which ships everywhere within the United States, the Caribbean Islands and Canada. Well get your new kitchen in 7-10 business days.

The offering of KitchenOnCleanrance.com, which is an accredited Better Business Bureau business, could prove to have perfect timing.

According to a Remodelers 360 study, a study conducted every other year since 2008, minor kitchen remodels return 78 percent of their cost when the home is sold, major remodels return 73 percent and upscale projects return 63 percent.

In addition, the 70-page report, which delivers insights to how U.S. consumers are using their kitchens, their design preferences, plans for remodeling, and their remodeling experiences, said about 30 percent of homeowners who spent more than $2,500 on kitchen remodeling enlisted the help of a designer.

When it comes to designs, we have one of the most diverse kitchen design options anywhere in the world, so we can defiantly help anyone with whatever they envision, the company spokesman stressed, before adding, We sell high quality, solid wood discounted kitchen cabinets online and are able to do this because of our large distribution.

As for those who are in need or want to renovate their kitchen, but are on a tight budget, the company spokesman noted that a variety of options are available.

One of the best ways to reduce the overall cost of your kitchen renovation is by choosing ready to assemble cabinets and doing some of the work yourself, the spokesman pointed out. This will ensure that you have plenty of money left in your budget for any other parts of your kitchen that need updating. If you dont want to do that, we also offer six months of financing interest free.

As to why anyone should let KitchenOnClearance.com provide them with a new kitchen in 7-10 days, the company spokesman said, We have been selling affordable kitchen cabinets online for over 7 years, so if you are looking for kitchen cabinets on sale, ready to assemble kitchen cabinets, RTA kitchen cabinets, and even wholesale kitchen cabinets, then were the perfect place.

Original post:
KitchenOnClearance.com Gives Customers the Kitchens of their Dreams in 7-10 Days