Why do some homes have two master suites? Maybe I’m not overly bright, because until today I thought dual master suites were for when two families shared a house (which I thought was odd). But now I get it: Two master suites are for a couple who sleeps in separate rooms. According to a report…
All around the country, the construction and remodeling pundits want to know: In a down market, are you more or less likely to remodel your kitchen? Both arguments have merit. Why a kitchen remodel is more likely now: You realize with falling values that you’re not moving any time soon, and so why not remodel…
Two-thirds of people who live in the jurisdiction of a homeowners association are "annoyed" by them, or worse, and 19% have been in what they call a "war" with their HOA. This is according to a survey of more than 3,000 customers by Service Magic. On the upside, 24% responded positively about HOAs. However, while…
When a reader suggested recently that nobody takes baths anymore, I had a serious reaction to that. My morning bath is almost like a religion. I get to read and soak and brush my teeth and moisturize and all kinds of neat activities that help me “peace out.” I can’t stand showers. How can you…
When a couple is planning a remodel, whose taste and opinion should matter most?(answers)
I’ve been concerned for some time that we all move so often. The National Association of Realtors told me recently that we now sell our homes and move an average of every six years, rather than the seven-year statistic we’ve heard quoted so long. How can we fight for our neighborhoods, for good stewardship of…
I’ve been blogging nearly a month for the Los Angeles Times and I must say: It is a pleasure. I get to blog about the topic I’ve been studying for almost 20 years — remodeling — and I get to blog often! These little posts are perfect for an ADD type, don’t you think? Happily,…
In an effort to clean up Southland air, some of the dirtiest air in the nation, regulators are considering proposals that would put restrictions on fireplaces, according to a June 2 article in The Times: Those proposals include a ban on wood-burning fireplaces in all new homes in Los Angeles, Orange and portions of San…