Exterior Remodeling Proves Best Bang for Your Buck, Realtors® Report

For the fourth straight year, home renovation jobs have added less to resale values relative to their costs, according to an annual Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report released this week by the National Association of Realtors.

When deciding to undertake a home renovation or addition, it would be advisable of homeowners to consult a qualified, (experienced, practicing, insured) local Residential Architect or Contractor for advice on budgeting and getting the most of your investment.

Lehigh Valley Log Cabins

Eastern Pennsylvania contains a surprising number of surviving log cabins. Author Donald Heintzelman claims more than 100 cabins still exist in Lehigh County alone. A unique website created by Heintzelman is dedicated to touring them and includes: photos, maps & touring info. Visit www.lehighcountylogcabintrail.org

Your House in 3D

Check out Google Sketchup. It is a FREE 3D modeling software that you can use to model your current home or plan additions, etc. There is a vast library of ready to use objects such as furniture, windows and automobiles. What sets this program apart from the price is that it is the easiest, most intuitive modeling software out there. Many architectural firms are now using it in conjunction with more sophisticated programs to create models for their clients. Finally, go to Youtube and search under Sketchup to find all the tutorials you could ever need. Above is an example of a basic model of my office at Zen Architecture that was created using Sketchup. Enjoy!

Put The Top Down

Its Summer! Forget about $4.00/Gallon gas. Load the family in the car, veer off Route 80 and go for a scenic ride on the back roads.

Worth a Visit

The Crane-Phillips House is located in downtown Cranford, dating back to the mid 1800's. With today's backlash against 'McMansions', this tiny Victorian cottage provides some much needed incite into what the average middle class family of 200 years ago called home.