We found this article from CNN Money about how to get better remodeling bids.  Developing a realistic budget is key to a smooth process.  We use a lot of these techniques as part of our processes.  However, our most valuable tool is experience, and the high volume of historical data we have from almost 1500 successful projects here on Cape Cod.  Check out this article for some great information...Remodeling Bid

If you have questions about your next remodeling project, click here to get in touch with one of REEF's experts

We recently completed a garage/breezeway addition on RT 134 in Dennis. The new garage was

designed and built with the intent to match the existing house.  This project took just under eight

 weeks to complete.

BEFORE

AFTER

 On February 14th the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards voted against requiring mandatory fire sprinkler systems in homes.   Many of the professional building organizations had opposed this change based on the expens, risk and other problems associated with this change. 

  See the attached article from FireEngineering.com to see the reaction from the fire safety community.

Reaction to Fire Sprinklers

Welcome to the first monthly installment in our series on Locally Owned Businesses.   

This month we are featuring clients Joe and Theresa Trombetta of Trombetta's Window Boxes. Etc.

   As owners and operators of

Trombetta's Flower Shop and

Greenhouses in Northborough,

Ma., Joe grew a large variety

of cut flowers and potted

plants. Theresa ran the full

service, for all occasions

flower shop, servicing

Northborough and surrounding

towns.

 After over 40 years in

business, Joe & Theresa semi

retired to Cape Cod where they resumed their talents with Trombetta's Windowboxes, Etc. 

Their offerings include plantings and containers for all seasons, and custom orders for both

residential and commercial customers.  Happy Spring

Joseph and Theresa Trombetta

Trombetta's Window Boxes, Etc.

East Dennis, MA

(508) 385-9367

    We found these interesting and innovative building and home designs. Great inspiration for your next project, although we will acknowledge that they are a little over the top!  Enjoy

http://villageofjoy.com/50-strange-buildings-of-the-world/

     The real decision makers, when it comes to home design, style and functionality. We have found that men are great with the "big picture" but women prefer to focus on the details.  Things like functionality of living spaces, smart use of storage and seating areas, good bathroom design are all areas at which women excel.  We found some helpful tips in the 10 Commandments of Woman-centric Design.  See below:

   The National Association of Realtor published its updated sales numbers last week and the results were great.  There was 4.3% increase in sales last month, and inventory is down to 2005 levels. With a 6 month backlog of inventory, the housing market seems well on its way to recovery.  The only bad news was that the large volume of foreclosures would still hold prices down.  Of course that is bad news for sellers, but still great news for buyers.   Locally we have seen activity pick up substantially over the last few months, with more and more requests to renovate or remodel newly-purchased homes.

Click here to read the whole article from the Chicago Southtown Star: Housing Market Looking Up

     Remodeling has been in high demand this spring!! Many people are choosing to make smart investments in their existing homes with either a kitchen addition, master suite upgrade or new spaces over their existing garages or basements. It is good to see the market picking up, and we are happy to see the positive impact on the jobs market.  See this article from Businessweek for more information

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-02-23/construction-jobs-rebound-amid-pick-up-in-u-s-home-remodeling.html

      Having a home office is a great idea, especially with the flexibility offered by remote access to office computers, and other mobile devices. Many of the new homes and renovation projects we do, have  room set aside for just this purpose.  Built-in cabinetry can be tailored to meet almost any need for your home office, and along with some structured wiring, and a few furnishings, almost any room can serve as the home workspace.   Here is a photo gallery from This Old House with some ideas.

This Old House- Home Office Ideas

If you are thinking about creating your own home office space, please click below for a free consultation.

       People often ask us what a renovation of a home might look like.  We found this article in Southern Living with a gallery of a recently renovated cape-style home.  There are some great design ideas in this article, and even though the home is located in the Atlanta area. You can really see their New England and Cape Cod styles shine through in their final results.

Cape Cod Renovation-Decorating Ideas