CONSUMERS - Owning Your Home

Building Permits & Zoning

How do building codes work? When are building permits needed? Where do I get information on remodeling?

Fixer-Upper Loans

Are there any special tax breaks for historic rehab? Are there gov't programs for rehab? Can you deduct the cost of home improvements? How do building codes work?

Hiring a Contractor

How do I find a home inspector? What are some guidelines to follow when trying to find a contractor? Where do I get information on remodeling?

Home Price Appreciation

How can I improve the value of my property? How do you increase the value of your property? Should I add on or buy a bigger home? What are the standard ways of finding out how much a home is worth? What is the difference between market value and appraised value? What kind of return is there on remodeling jobs? Where do I get information on housing market stats?

Homeowner Associations

Are condos a good investment? Can a condo association ban nudity? Can condos ban smoking? Do condos have to be made accessible to the disabled? How are fees and assessments figured in a homeowners association? What's a house worth? Where do I get information on condo association laws? Where do I get information on condos?

Improving Your Real Estate

Are there gov't programs for rehab? Can you deduct the cost of home improvements? How can I improve the value of my property? How do building codes work? How do you increase the value of your property? How much will I spend on maintenance expenses? Should I add on or buy a bigger home? What are some guidelines to follow when trying to find a contractor? What are some resources for info on home improvements? What are the pros and cons of adding on or buying new? What kind of return is there on remodeling jobs? What repairs should the seller make? Where can I get a list of architects? Where do I get information on remodeling? Will a neighbor problem reduce the value of my property?

Neighbor Disputes

Can a condo association ban pets?

Whom to Contact (Maintaining & Improving)

Where can I get a list of architects? Where do I get information on remodeling?

Whom to Contact (Other Ownership Issues)

How do I monitor my ARM loan? How do I reach the IRS? Where do I get information about finding a real estate attorney? Where do I get information on homes with historic value? Where do I get information on housing market stats?