Even though you may be moving into a completely new home, with everything under warranty, there are some basic things that everyone should know when it comes to owning a new home.  At REEF, we conduct a thorough walkthrough with our customers, identifiying critical items, such as water main locations, electrical service locations, HVAC and other filters that must be changed regularly, septic system location and maintenance, and general maintenance tips for their new home. 

  Realtor.com has published an article identifying tips for new homeowners that we felt covered some basic, but important items: seven-helpful-tips-for-new-homeowners

If you have questions about your new or old homes, and want to ask an expert, you can always contact us at REEF by clicking below:

Wefound this article on remodeling projects that seem to have survived the recession. It looks like aging in place, in-law apartments, outdoor enhancements, and smart kitchens are still good investments, despite the economic times.  Remodeling, additions and renovation work have been a large part of our business over the last year or so.  Here is the article from US News: recession-home-remodeling-trends

If you have questions about your next remodeling or construction project... ask one of the pro's here at REEF - just click below:

    Looks like some new trends are emerging at the International Builder's show in Orlando.  See link from Yahoo Real Estate to discover the latest trends.  One of the most interesting points is the turn back towards smaller, more efficiently-designed homes. It looks like crafstman-style homes are seeing a resurgence, while other styles, such as the classic split level are all but gone.

Click here for more: What's Hot in Homes for 2012

   With all of the recent changes to the energy code, there has been a resurgence in concerns about houses being  too "tight."  Many people believe that the key to long term building health is the fact that many older homes, with there inherent leaks and drafts allowed fresh air to move through the home.  That theory is somewhat true, and actually even more critical now as the new energy code is based on eliminating uncontrolled air infiltration.  Proper insulation, use of vapor and air barriers, along with some mechanical ventilation guarantees a healthy indoor environment. 

 Here is an article from Fine Homebuilding that discusses various ways to achieve a healthy air quality, while still achieving the critical energy efficiency requirements of today's building codes.

Do Houses Need To Breathe?

    The biggest challenge with energy efficiency and green initiatives is to determine the actual return on investment. If done properly, energy efficiency improvements can result in substantial, tangible savings on your day to day energy use.  Our friends at Cotuit Solar and Cape Light Compact have provided a basic chart discussing general return perior for certain improvements.

See Below

ENERGY AND $ SAVING IDEAS 

In the following list, the higher the level, the more cost effective the choices are for reducing energy use in your house/business. So, ideally, one should exhaust the possibilities at the highest level before implementing lower level actions.

PAYBACK IN YEARS and ACTION

0: Get a free energy audit (Cape Light Compact: 800-797-6699), lower house thermostat setting, combine/minimize automobile trips, replace lawn area with garden or natural landscape.

½ - 2: Solar Pool Heat Installation.                     

1-5: Add Attic Insulation; Replace Light Bulbs & Appliances with more energy efficient ones.

3-7: Solar Domestic Hot Water Installation using tax credits.

3-8: Add Window Quilts or Thermal Shades; Install a Wood/Pellet Stove.

5-7: Groundwater Source Cooling/Dehumidifying.

6-8: Wind Power and/or Photovoltaic Solar Installation using MTC (Massachusetts Technology Collaborative) incentive money and tax credits.

6-10: Replace Heating Equipment/Automobile with updated, more efficient technology.

10-15: Reside Building with added insulation & new windows.

15-20: Install Solar Space Heating

 

If you have questions about your next home improvement project please click below for more information:

   People always want to know  "How Much Will This Cost?" so they can make important finacial decisions early in the process.  In an effort to assist in this process at an early stage, REEF has published a 2012 Guide to Current Construction Costs on Cape Cod.  This article provides unit costs per square foot for several different types of projects ranging from cottages, to custom homes and renovations. Click below to recieve your free copy!

So, since it is Friday, and we thought we should do something a little fun.  We came across this article from Architectural Digest featuring Celebrity Kitchens.  So if you want to know where Sir Elton John cooks his breakfast, or where Sting makes his midnight snack... here you go!

Celebrity Kitchens

If you are thinking about your next remodeling or kitchen project and you want to find out more about what is possible, click here:

   There is nothing more inviting than a well-designed window seat.  With a little planning, a window seat can be a as functional as it is comfortable. Often times extra storage bins or drawers can be added into the base of the seat, creating a great place for books, pictures, or blankets. This Old House has provided some ideas on for different window seat designs here:

This Old House - Window Seats

If you are thinking of renovating or remodeling home, come examine the possibilities with REEF!

Check out our facebook page for before and after photos of some recent projects. If you are thinking about upgrading that tired old cottage, please contact us today!

http://facebook.com/capecodbuilder

   Things are changing in 2012.  More of our customers are seeking value based designs and improvements that provide functionality, and flexible use of spaces.  Builder magazine recently published an article about the top 10 custom home trends for 2012. Bonus rooms, sunrooms / screened porches, exterior upgrades and garages are all on the top of the list. So far this year we have seen several requests for finished rooms over garages, finished basments with open, flexible spaces, and room additions that can serve multiple purposes.

    The current design trends are evolving into a lifestyle driven home, where you don't see things like formal dining rooms, separate living rooms, or dens. Most of the demand we have seen has been for open living spaces, where families and friends can gather and entertain with all of the important amenities in one place. 

Click here to see the article and slideshow from Builder Magazine :10 Custom Home Design Trends for 2012

If you are considering a project this year, and would like more information, click here for a no obligation consult: