Total Number of News: 5285
- 7/25/2008 - Real Estate News
Excavation's the first step in deck building
Summer is a great time to add a new deck to your outdoor living space. And large or small, attached to the house or standing alone, it's a sure bet that before you starting cutting lumber and laying deck boards, you'll need to do some excavating to ge... - 7/25/2008 - Real Estate News
Signing assumption deed was a mistake
Q: Three years ago, I signed an assumption deed to my brother because I was getting married and would be living in another state. Earlier this year, my nephew talked my brother into signing a quitclaim deed to him. Our nephew knew that there is a lie... - 7/24/2008 - Real Estate News
Overstay lease, pay 'exorbitant' charge
Q: When my lease was up last week, I began talking with the landlord about renewing, and what the new rent would be. She surprised me by setting a high figure, so I'm not going to renew and plan to leave next week. Now she says I owe her two months' re... - 7/24/2008 - Real Estate News
Sorry, home insurance won't cover this
Q: My foundation is cracked and the garage and steps are shrinking. My insurance company says it will not cover this kind of problem. The house was built in 1992, and I purchased it in 2000. I have been told that the foundation was cracked at that tim... - 7/23/2008 - Real Estate News
Beamed ceilings needn't make life uncomfortable
Q: I have exposed 8-inch beams throughout the house and no attic. Is there some kind of attractive insulation I can put between the beams, not more than 4 inches thick, that will give me the maximum amount of insulation with the least thickness? A: We... - 7/23/2008 - Real Estate News
Top draws at master-planned communities
There are walking trails, swimming pools and tennis courts. The landscape is well-maintained. If you didn't know better, you might think you were walking the grounds of a lovely resort. If you ask Janet Heilman what she likes about Cinco Ranch, the Kat... - 7/22/2008 - Real Estate News
Do you trust inspector with gas appliances?
Dear Barry, This is not a question as much as a comment. You occasionally discuss how home inspectors inspect gas-burning fixtures. In my opinion, home inspectors are not qualified to inspect gas appliances -- period. Unless they hold the proper licens... - 7/22/2008 - Real Estate News
Girlfriend may have claim to home in breakup
Q: My employer's son bought a house a few years ago and his name is the only one on the deed. He recently moved his girlfriend in with him. If she decides to leave after a few years, and her name is never put on the mortgage or the deed, can she legall... - 7/21/2008 - Real Estate News
Facing foreclosure: When must I move out?
DEAR BENNY: I am one of the unfortunate who has to deal with eventual foreclosure. Can you tell me how long I can remain in my home until legally having to vacate? --Constance DEAR CONSTANCE: Before the foreclose takes place, please talk to your lender... - 7/21/2008 - Real Estate News
Pest repairs are turnoff for buyers
In a perfect world, houses wouldn't deteriorate over time. In reality, the wear begins as soon as a house is built. Older houses tend to have more maintenance issues. But, even new homes can develop problems within a few years if they were poorly const...