Folino Homes

Trending White Kitchens

2011-11-28T17:49:00.001-05:00

You may or may not have noticed, but white kitchens are all the rage! Builder magazine offers some insight into this trend:

"Depending on your point of view—and your clientele—explanations vary. Economic: In a downturn, moderation prevails, and a white kitchen plays to a bigger variety of tastes than a red one. Strategic: A kitchen that’s all white probably makes a home easier to sell. Stylistic: If, faced with all that white, there’s a craving for color, a white kitchen makes it easier to add a splash of orange or apple-green. Psychological: In anxious, tumultuous times, white is calming. Or maybe it’s all of those things. "There’s a durability in terms of style," says Mick DeGiulio, a Chicago-based architect who has been designing kitchens for more than 30 years, and who has seen the demand for white kitchens ebb and flow. "White always makes for a great kitchen—it reads fresh and clean, which are big words in kitchen design right now." It's like the home-design equivalent of the navy blazer or the little black dress—reliable, timeless, and something that never really went out of style in the first place. While white may be neutral, it’s anything but bland."

We just recently built a home with a white kitchen, also. It was one of our smaller floor plans and we wanted the space to seem as large as possible. So white was the natural choice! We also chose black countertops to create an interesting contrast:

Here are some of our other faves:

We love how this one also has white marble to keep the look super clean.

This kitchen has dark hardware to create the contrast:

And this white kitchen features a different color top on the island. Also a huge trend right now!

How about you? Do you own or have ever owned a white kitchen? Or thinking about remodeling and doing one?

Why You Should Buy Your Home Now

2011-10-17T17:01:00.002-04:00

Every time you turn on the tv or open a newspaper, the media is down everyone's throats about the state of our economy and the lousy housing market. What they don't seem to be communicating is that homes are the most affordable they have been in decades, thanks to the low interest rates. Not only that, but builders are offering some amazing deals, too. We just recently ran this ad:

The Wall Street Journal recently ran an article that looked at owning a home from an investment standpoint:

"Stock-oriented folks can think of a house's price/rent ratio as akin to a stock's price/earnings ratio, in that it compares the cost of an asset with the money the asset is capable of generating. For investors, a lower ratio suggests more income for the price. For prospective homeowners, a lower ratio makes owning more attractive than renting, all else equal."

But really, the most attractive thing about purchasing a home is this. The mortgage rates have made a home affordable to so many families. Take advantage of it! WSJ summed it up perfectly:

"Houses aren't the magic wealth creators they were made out to be during the bubble. But when prices are low, loans are cheap and plump investment yields are scarce, buyers should jump."

The American Dream of Home Ownership

2011-02-13T15:09:00.003-05:00

Check out this video with some very positive news on the home industry!

To read the full Forbes blog post, click here.

Women Homebuyers: Gen Y

2011-01-27T10:06:00.003-05:00

Are you a Gen Y single woman looking to buy a home? You're not alone! Check out this article.

Slash your Property Taxes

2010-11-10T16:41:00.002-05:00

We came across this great article from Real Simple's website and had to share the info with you:

Up to 60 percent of the property in the United States could be overtaxed. Learn how to take on the tax man and you could save hundreds (or even thousands).

Step 1: Visit your local assessor. Your tax bill should give the office’s location. (Typically it’s in a town or county building.) Inquire in advance about which forms you must fill out and when the deadline for filing is. (You usually have 60 days or less from the time your annual assessment was mailed to lodge an appeal.) While there, get a copy of your property card, which contains information about your house, like square footage and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, that the assessor uses to determine its value.

Step 2: Check the property card for mistakes. Look for math errors (property taxes are generally based on a percentage of a property’s value, multiplied by a tax rate set by the local government); clerical errors, such as how your property is classified (commercial vs. residential); and inaccurate descriptions that indicate your home is worth more than it is (a mention of a nonexistent porch, say). Catching such simple mistakes may lead to a reduced assessment.

Step 3: Compare your home’s value with that of others in the neighborhood. This public information can be found at your local municipality or online at valueappeal.com or domania.com. Look up homes that are close to yours in terms of location, age, size, and amenities, then note their appraisals. “If your home is valued at least 5 percent higher than houses comparable to yours, you have a case,” says Jim Lumley, the author of Challenge Your Taxes (John Wiley & Sons, $25, amazon.com).

Step 4: File an appeal. While the rules for appeals vary from one state to the next, most require you to submit a written statement to a county board explaining why the evaluation is inaccurate. You must support this claim with hard evidence: property cards, other house valuations, and even photos can be useful when comparing your home with others. And be sure to mention your home’s flaws (a leaky roof, termite damage). Those problems might save you enough cash that you’ll be able to afford to fix them.

Now go out there and save yourself some $$!

Fall Decorating

2010-09-08T10:19:00.007-04:00

Well it's almost here! The Fall season is upon us, with all it's brilliant colors, cool nights, and apples galore. There's tons of things to do around the house to prep for dare I say, winter, but let's not dwell on that, shall we? Let's explore all the options this season has to offer for decorating our homes!

Any fun decorating ideas you have for the season?

Lightning Safety Tips for Your Home

2010-08-02T12:29:00.005-04:00

It's that time of year when lightning storms are forecasted on a daily basis. Lightning can be very dangerous, especially to a home. In fact, it accounts for more damage to homes than either hurricanes or tornadoes each year. For some great tips on how to protect your home and your family, visit Mother Earth News.

Protect Your Home

2010-07-13T13:54:00.002-04:00

Summer is the time for vacations to the beach, visits to family members, and whatever other trips you can sneak in before Fall! Here are some tips to ensure you keep your home safe while you're away:

Suspend your newspaper deliveries and mail or have a neighbor collect it for you.

Do not share your trip on Facebook or other social media sites. Only tell close friends or family members where you are going.

Set lights on timers in various rooms throughout your home. Make it look lived in.

Leave a neighbor with a phone number to reach you and a spare set of keys in case of emergency.

Ensure all valuables are safely locked away and that a computer is not accessible for stealing personal information.

If you will be gone more than a week, have a lawn service mow your lawn.

Have a safe and fun summer vacation!

Developments in Russia?

2010-06-21T10:30:00.002-04:00

Russia is following in our footsteps. It’s been over 40 years since the United States helped its citizens in their quest for the “Dream”, a single family home to call your own. Now Russia is trying to do the same. After decades of Russian Citizens living in multi-family high rises, the Russian government is now doing what they can to help their citizens in their quest to buy a single family home.

So what are they doing to help this dream? With Russian interest rates averaging 13.6%, they are providing home loans with an 11% interest rate. The Russian government has purchased 2.5 million acres for development into single family homes. 3840 acres will be developed starting next year, increasing to 5120 acres in 2012. They are stating these new homes will be affordable. Currently, Moscow’s secondary market residential property price is over $400 per square foot. This new development will be at less than $60 per square foot.

Are the interest rates low enough, and is enough aid being given to developers to generate enough interest in Home Ownership in the Russian community? We’ll have to wait and see.

Delaware's Green for Green Program

2010-06-14T14:23:00.002-04:00

The surrounding states of PA are creating some amazing incentives for new homeowners, including Delaware's new Green for Green Program. They've just announced all homeowners in the state who purchase a green home are eligible for rebates up to $6,000, depending upon the level of certification achieved. Come on PA, where's our incentives?!

For more information on Delaware's Green for Green Program, click here.

New Jersey Homeowner's Makin' Money

2010-06-02T11:23:00.004-04:00

The New Jersey State Assembly has voted in favor of a new bill that would give new & existing home buyers a tax credit of $15,000 (or 5%, whichever is less) of the selling price of the house. This bill still needs to pass the Senate to become law. The credit has been capped at $100,000, 75% of which would go to new construction.

The emphasis on new construction is to help with creating jobs. For every new home built, it affects 100 related jobs and creates 3 permanent jobs.

Wouldn’t it be great if Pennsylvania did the same for its Homebuyers?

Memorial Day Picnic Ideas

2010-05-24T10:12:00.016-04:00

Whether you are having people over for a cookout, or going to your family or friends, "What's for Dinner" is the hot topic this coming week. Folino Homes is here to help!

Fred's Finest Baby Back Ribs

Ingredients

6 racks Baby Back Ribs
1/4C Diijon mustard
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup water or apple cider
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 Tbsp honey

Directions:

Set up your grill for indirect cooking. Add some wood chips or hunks of wood, like hickory or oak, to your smoke box, or make a foil-smoking packet. Let some smoke build in your grill, then place the ribs (brushed with the mustard and rub) on the grill, bone side down, and adjust the temperature to low. You want the temperature to stay at about 200 degrees F, so check with an oven thermometer. Smoke for about 3 hours, replenishing the wood chips as needed. About every 45 minutes, spray the ribs with apple cider. The ribs are ready for the next step when you can grab them with a pair of tongs, lift them up, and they bend easily.

To finish the ribs:

Oil the grill racks. Preheat your grill using all burners set on high and with the lid closed for 10 to 12 minutes.
When the grill is hot, reduce the heat to medium and place the ribs, meaty side down, on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 15 minutes, then turn. Brush the seared side with the barbecue sauce, cover again, and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes. Turn, brush with sauce, cover, and let them enjoy the heat for another 10 minutes. Brush the same side with sauce again, cover, and cook for no more than 5 minutes. Uncover, drizzle the ribs with the honey, and let them stay on the heat a couple of minutes more to allow the honey to glaze. Remove and serve to hoots and hollers.

Panzanella (Bread Salad)

Ingredients

3 cups day-old Italian bread torn into bite-size pieces or cut into 1-inch cubes
1 pound tomatoes, seeded and coarsely chopped
1/2 of a medium red onion, cut into thin wedges and separated
1/2 of a small cucumber, peeled and cut into chunks
1/4 cup snipped fresh basil
2 tablespoons snipped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons red or white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Torn mixed greens (about 4 cups)

Directions:

In a Large mixing bowl combine bread cubes, chopped tomatoes,
onion, cucumber, basil, parsley, and minced garlic.

For dressing, in a glass measure stir together vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper; spoon over salad. Toss gently to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve over torn greens. Makes 4 side-dish servings.

Almond Bundt Cake

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp sliced almonds
1 3/4 Cups flour
1 Cup whole almonds
1-1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/4 cups sugar
3 Large eggs (room temp)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp pure almond extract
1 Cups low-fat buttermilk
4 Cups Strawberries, halved
4 tsp sugar Confectioners' sugar for dusting
Whipped cream for garnish, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Coat 10-inch (12-cup) Bundt pan with cooking spray formulated with flour for baking.

Sprinkle sliced almonds over bottom of pan.
Pulse flour, whole almonds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in food processor or blender until almonds are finely ground.
Beat butter in large bowl with electric mixer 3 to 4 minutes, or until creamy.

Beat in oil.

Gradually add sugar, and beat 4 to 5 minutes, or until light and fluffy.

Beat in eggs one at a time.

Add vanilla and almond extracts, and beat until blended.
Alternately fold flour mixture and buttermilk into butter mixture with spatula, making 3 additions of dry ingredients and 2 additions of liquid.

Spread batter in prepared pan, and bake 35 to 40 minutes, or until top springs back when touched and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool on wire rack 5 minutes.

Unmold onto rack, and cool completely.
Toss strawberries with sugar in medium bowl.

Chill 1 hour to let strawberries release their juices.

Serve cake dusted with confectioners' sugar and topped with strawberries and whipped cream, if desired.

Spring Checklist: Painting

2010-04-27T10:51:00.006-04:00

With Spring warming up our days, there's no better motivation for finally painting your home. Choosing a paint color for your rooms can be a daunting task, and some companies even offer services to choose them for you, like Tendenza Fashion & Interiors Color Consultation Package. And if you have an Iphone, there are even apps from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams that allow you to take a photo and choose a color within the photo. They then will match it to one of their paints. Amazing!

To help you out, we've provided some of the top color trends for 2010:

Yellow

For years, interior designers and color experts have sung the praises of yellow's uplifting impact on our moods. This year, kick it up a notch to some brighter tones that were popular before.

“The color yellow exemplifies the warmth and nurturing quality of the sun, properties we as humans are naturally drawn to for reassurance,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Yellow also speaks to enlightenment, as it is a hue that sparks imagination and innovation.”

Lavender

Lavender will be the hands-down winner in the bedroom. It portrays luxury and elegance and evokes warmth and comfort.

Gray

Slate and charcoal gray will be the hot new neutrals, taking over from the browns and beiges that had been so popular. Cool gray can be paired with almost any color for a winning combination.

Aqua

Aqua has been a recommended color by cutting-edge decorators for a couple of years and will continue to be strong next year.

To learn more, click here. Good luck!

Gen Y To the Rescue

2010-04-15T15:11:00.003-04:00

An interesting article published earlier this month to the Chicago Tribune claims that Generation Y will be responsible for getting America out of our housing slump. Steve Hovaney, a Chicago real estate analyst, claims "These first-time buyers will lead the recovery. They have the advantage of not having an existing home to sell. All the big builders are redesigning for this age group. What's coming are smaller, more-efficient boxes that cost less."

Generation Y is said to be composed of 75 million and were born between 1982 and 1995. They are almost as large a group as their baby-boomer parents.

"Gen Y is buying homes at an earlier age than the preceding Gen X, and tends to spend more on their first home," said Steven Lewkowitz, director of professional services for the home building and real estate group at Atlanta-based CDC Software.

They rely on technology to find their future home, using Facebook, Twitter, blogs, and websites as their source.

Be sure to read the rest of this really interesting article by clicking here.

Housing Shortages?

2010-04-06T14:40:00.002-04:00

That's right, you didn't read the title incorrectly. The latest buzz in the home industry at the moment is the potential for housing shortages in the next few years.

Brian Wesbury, chief economist at First Trust Advisors, told Forbes in February that we're building only one-third of the houses we need just to keep up with population growth. Wesbury figures America needs to add 1.5 million housing units per year just to keep up with population growth plus another 100,000 for fires and tear-downs, et al, we need 1.6 million or more per year. Right now we're down to about six and a half, seven months' inventory, whether you look at new homes or existing homes. Housing starts are now between 500,000 and 600,000 a year.

"Kids who have graduated are mostly still living at home, more people are sharing houses and divorce rates go down in a recession. It's a lot cheaper to be together than to separate," he said. "The housing market is looking better on affordability measures. After World War II we had a boom with 170 million people living in this county. Now we are over 300 million, and we have fewer houses for these people to live."

Rather interesting, don't you think? To read the full article, click here.

Water Leak Detection Kits

2010-03-31T15:23:00.003-04:00

With the costs of utilities seeming to rise on a daily basis, you'll want to check out the Pennsylvania America's water leak detection kit. Leaks can account for an average of 10,000 gallons of water wasted in the home every year, or enough to fill a backyard swimming pool. Yikes! The "kit" is really a guide, but still very useful. Here are some tips from the Berks Conservancy to reduce your water leakage:

• Reduce faucet leaks by checking faucet washers and gaskets for wear and replace them, or, if necessary, replace the faucet with a WaterSense-labeled model.

• Leaky toilets are most often the result of a worn toilet flapper. Replacing the rubber flapper is a quick fix that could save a home up to 200 gallons of water per day.

• For a leaky garden hose, replace the nylon or rubber hose washer and ensure a tight connection to the spigot using pipe tape and a wrench.

• Tighten connections on your showerheads if drips appear when the shower is off.

• Check your garden and lawn irrigation system for leaks, or hire a certified WaterSense expert to check it for you.

• Consider installing water and energy-efficient appliances. The EPA reports that certified Energy Star washing machines use up to 35 percent less water per load. Water-saving shower heads, toilets and faucet aerators also help cut your water usage.

• If you have to replace plumbing fixtures, look for the WaterSense label. WaterSense-labeled toilets and faucets are independently tested and certified to save water and perform as well as or better than standard models. Visit www.epa.gov/watersense for more information.

Spring is in the Air!

2010-03-24T16:31:00.004-04:00

Part of being environmentally conscious as well as doing what's best for your health includes eating fruits and vegetables that are in season. Since April is right around the corner, we've provided a list of what's in season next month and some delicious recipes for enjoying them! Click on each fruit or vegetable for the recipe.

Artichokes

Arugula

Asparagus

Oranges

Rhubarb

Strawberries

By the way, how's that spring home maintenance checklist coming along? Just checking if you're on top of it!

Fireplace Alternatives

2010-03-17T09:08:00.007-04:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped by our booth this past weekend at the Home & Garden Show! You still have a chance to become a follower of our blog and win a Lowe's gift card!

If you have a fireplace, chances are it's finally gone into hibernation for the season. That doesn't mean it has to sit there and look boring! Check out some of these fun ideas to liven it up. These ideas are great for non-working fireplaces, too!

One of our favorite ideas, getting a piece of mirror cut to the shape of your fireplace brings extra light into the space by bouncing it around the room from the windows. And obviously, it also looks beautiful.

Here's another example:

Another option that brings some greenery to your home is to fill the empty space with plants:

This idea is definitely bold, but you could go much softer with the color scheme. The owners of this fireplace decided to wallpaper the inside and paint logs to decorate the inside. Pretty intense!

And finally, the easiest option there is, pile up some plain old logs in there and it still looks pretty!

Enter to Win!

2010-03-11T10:55:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow is the first day for the 2010 SEPA Home & Garden show! Click on the image above for details on the show. Be sure to stop by to see us at Booth #1110. And we'll be offering a contest, even for those of you who can't make it! All you have to do is become a follower of this blog, our twitter, or a fan on our Facebook and your automatically entered to win one of three Lowe's gift cards, a $200, $100, and $50 card. Join all 3 and you triple the chances of winning! The contest ends Sunday, March 21st at 11:59 p.m.

We'll also have on display, our dog house for the Berks County Humane Society's Barkitechture contest! Click here for details.

We look forward to seeing everyone this weekend! P.S. Unfortunately, it's going to be a rainy one...

Spring is Coming!

2010-03-05T11:31:00.004-05:00

How exciting is it to see the snow piles being diminished each day? It's definitely lifted our spirits! With Spring just around the corner, there's tons of things to do around the house. To help you out, we've included a link to The Ultimate Spring Home Maintenance Checklist, courtesy of HGTV. And for some real fun, check out the Spring Cleaning Made Easy article, too. Just keep reminding yourself of the warm weather and longer days to come. It helps to combat the daunting to-do list we just gave you!

Ranch Homes Making a Comeback

2010-02-24T10:11:00.002-05:00

Professional Builder just published a report stating ranch homes are becoming popular again among baby boomers and young families. Baby boomers for the obvious reason of a floor plan to suit their age and young families for the open and airy floor plan. The Mid-west seems to be seeing a much more dramatic increase in the number of ranch homes being built. Our area hasn't seen this yet, but that's not to say it isn't on the horizon. According to William Cornley, president of Dominion Homes, "Today's ranches feel more open. They have more windows and don't feel as confined".

The owner of Hallmark Homes states: "Ranches are built around entertainment. The kitchen is the center; everything revolves around it. Families just don't use that formal space anymore".

According to a National Association of Home Builder's Survey, 52% off all buyers prefer a single-story plan. Surprising!

To read the full story, click here.

Highlights from 2010 Builder's Show

2010-02-16T09:12:00.000-05:00

As promised, here are some pictures from the 2010 Builder's Show in Las Vegas! The place was HUGE, so it was rather tiring after each day, but well worth the exercise. Below are some images from the amazing Kohler booth, my absolute favorite of the show. You could even flush the toilets! (just not use them....)

Look at these beautiful patterned sinks:

The companies put a lot of energy into designing their booths, like this interactive game by Stock Building Supply:

And that's all I could get before we got yelled at by security! We didn't know you weren't allowed to take photos, otherwise we would have lots more!

Some of the design trends we learned about were:

the look is becoming very clean-lined and contemporary with citrusy colors
wine storage systems in the kitchen are seeing a big comeback
open floorplans are in demand
increased technology in bathrooms, i.e. telephone and tv

And tons more, but we don't want to make this the longest post ever. Hope you enjoyed our pictures!

SEPA Home Show 2010

2010-02-08T08:04:00.000-05:00

The 2010 SEPA Home Show is fast approaching, and we will definitely be in attendance again this year! More details coming soon, but in the meantime, check out our pictures from last year!

Folino Homes is Back!

2010-02-04T15:46:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone! So sorry we've seemed MIA, but after we got back from the builder's show, things were a little hectic. We promise to have up tons of fun pictures we took and all the emerging trends we've heard about. One emerging trend prediction we learned really struck a cord with us. Experts from the builder's show are predicting that the way communities are built today will be long gone for tomorrow. What does this mean? Let us elaborate.

There will be 5 key components of the new residential community:

Walkability

Sustainability

Connectivity (between neighbors as well as neighborhoods, on-site ammenities, mass transit)

Diversity of housing types and land uses

Dedicated open space/parks/trails
This means communities will have townhomes, semi-detached homes, apartments, single-family homes, and commercial all in one. Consumers are also going to want to see more green space and less pavement. The reason this struck a cord with us is because our upcoming project, Greenwich Village will be the exact example of this. There's even a walking trail! We may be ahead of the game by 20 years or so, but that's alright with us. David Clinger, a nationally known land planner thinks, "A large percentage of residential real estate developed between now and 2025 may be modeled after the compact villages that our forefathers built when this country first settled".

Thoughts on this emerging community trend?

Info from Professional Builder Magazine

We're Off!

2010-01-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

Folino Homes is off to the 2010 International Builder's Show in Las Vegas! We are very excited to learn what's new and up-coming trends in the home building industry (and maybe a few other things. Hey, it's Vegas!). We'll be back with lots of tips next week. Bon voyage!

Renovate Your Kitchen for $500

2010-01-14T14:10:00.003-05:00

That's right, we're not crazy, it is possible. The Nest.com published an article taking on this seemingly impossible task. Click here to learn some of their secrets.

Warning!

2010-01-11T15:04:00.003-05:00

An article posted today on Builder Magazine's website is warning homeowner's to know who they're hiring to work on their home. With the recent economic struggle in the home industry, many contractors are finding it tough to make ends meet. This is absolutely no excuse for their behavior, but should be taken as a caution to homeowners. The article tells about a family in St. Petersburg who hired a contractor to repair their roof. What they didn't bargain for was the lien that would later be put on their home. The contractor never paid the supplier even though the homeowners paid the contractor. A few months later, a lien was put on their home.

It's crucial to ensure the contractor you are hiring to remodel or build your home is reputable. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any claims against the contractor. In addition, you can ask for references of suppliers and past customers they have done business with. This is not something an innocent homeowner should have to deal with. Our best advice is go with your gut instinct. It's always better to pay a little more from a reputable contractor then pay less and get stuck with a problem. To read the full article, click here.

Oh by the way, Folino Homes isn't one of these contractors. Just making sure! Have a Happy Monday!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Folino Homes wishes everyone a Happy New Year! (hopefully with resolutions we will all keep, right?)

Need a Snowblower?

2009-12-29T15:42:00.002-05:00

Our area has already received 2 substantial snow falls and it's only December! Hopefully we won't have to use these, but just in case here's an informational guide on how to purchase a snowblower. Let's cross our fingers they'll stay in the garage!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

Folino Homes wants to wish everyone a Happy Holiday filled with lots of joy, cookies and of course, presents! (If you didn't get that new home that was on your wish list, just give us a buzz...)

Housing Starts Jump 8.9% in November

2009-12-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Great news! According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s new residential construction report, housing starts rose 8.9 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 574,000, the highest level in a year and a stronger jump than most economists expected. Extension and expansion of the first-time home buyer $8,000 tax credit, lower home prices, looser credit conditions and low interest rates are expected to further drive sales and construction in coming months. Economists also believe the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates low to stimulate mortgage lending.

Can you guess how excited we are?

Article Information From: HousingZone.com

Cookies, Cookies, and More Cookies!

2009-12-16T11:28:00.000-05:00

Ready to get your bake on? Now's the time to start those cookies everyone will be looking for next week. Surely many of you have traditions of recipes you make every year, but why not surprise the fam with some new ones? Below are some great websites for new ideas and tips:

Food Network.com
Epicurious.com
Christmas-cookies.com
MarthaStewart.com

What are you waiting for? Get pre-heating that oven! Good luck!

Need Some Help?

2009-12-14T11:11:00.004-05:00

The holidays are right around the corner, and I'm sure you all still have things to do unless you are amazingly on top of everything. Did you decorate the outside of your house, yet? If not, click here for some great tips and ideas from Better Homes & Garden. Your house will be the best on the block!

How about the inside? Martha is to the rescue!

Check back again later this week for some delicious recipe ideas!

Why You Need A Wood Stove

2009-12-08T11:58:00.003-05:00

Why do you need a wood stove? Simple. According to Builder Magazine: "Strictly speaking, a freestanding wood-burning stove will not improve your house--although if you select one of those really handsome European numbers, it will certainly add to your home's aesthetics. But the beauty of a wood stove goes deeper than the unit’s cast iron or soapstone skin. Unlike a fireplace, a wood stove performs a slow controlled burn that produces substantially less smoke. The product also is an excellent source of supplemental heat, which is radiated to a house long after the fire dies away. Consequently, a properly sized wood stove can heat up to 4,000 square feet."

And there's no better month than December to get yourself one of these guys. Click here for some options from Lowe's.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans!

2009-12-04T07:05:00.000-05:00

We just wanted to remind everyone if you haven't done so already, reverse the direction (clockwise) of your ceiling fans. Now that the cold, cold weather is upon us, get as much heat savings as possible. You can thank us for being toasty later!

PPL Electric Caps Expiring!

2009-12-02T07:26:00.001-05:00

Those of you who have PPL probably have already received your letter in the mail, warning the electric caps are gone as of the new year. The average increase is expected to be at least 30%. Apparently, PA has been receiving extremely low rates compared to the national, which is why they're coming off. The good news? You can shop around to find the cheapest electric supplier. To read the full article from the Reading Eagle, click here.

For 21 tips on how to keep your electric bill down, click here.

What to do With Leftover Thanksgiving Dinner

2009-11-30T11:16:00.000-05:00

If you recall in our first Thanksgiving, Course by Course entry, we promised we'd give you tips on what to do with all your leftover food. Check out some of these great recipes. Hope you fought for the leftovers!

Cranberry Turkey Pizza- click here for the recipe

Turkey Noodle Soup: click here for the recipe

Turkey Tetrazzini-click here for the recipe. Trust us,this is delicious!

ENJOY!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Everyone at Folino Homes wants to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving filled with delicious food! We hope our blog helped you out!

Thanksgiving Course by Course: The Turkey and Dessert

2009-11-25T11:03:00.000-05:00

Here we are, 1 day before the big event. Anyone hosting Thanksgiving at their home is probably already feelin' the pressure of getting that bird in the oven. Don't stress, Folino Homes (or Martha) is to the rescue! Here is a no stress guide to prepping your turkey, cooking it, and carving it. Click here to be taken to the master, Martha Stewart's website. Here you'll find everything you need to know, including video how-tos, and in addition, a printable checklist to assist you in every way. Good luck with the turkey!

Oh! We almost forgot the dessert! You know what? I think we'll leave that to Martha, too!

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/thanksgiving-pies

Thanksgiving, Course by Course: Side Dishes

2009-11-17T10:13:00.002-05:00

As promised, here are some fabulous side dishes to include in this year's Thanksgiving feast:

The first is a classic staple, Best Ever Green Bean Casserole by Alton Brown; need we say more?

Click here for the recipe.

Calling all sweet potato lovers! Check this recipe out for Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Aioli.

We don't know who's Grandma this is, but they're seriously lucky people. Click here to make Grandma Moore's Creamed Corn. Don't like corn? You will when you find out there's bacon in it!

What would Thanksgiving be without some classic cranberry sauce on the table? We've seen some people try to jazz it up with variations. Some advice? Just keep it simple and everyone will be happy! Many even love it straight from the can, but what kind of blog entry would this be if we told you to bust out the can opener? For the easiest, no stress recipe, click here.

And last, but not least, the stuffing. We really can't give you one straight stuffing recipe. There are sooo many and most family's are bias towards theirs. But if this is your first time hosting Thanksgiving, you might need a recipe. Click here for tons of options.

Coming up: How to make that perfect turkey!

Thanksgiving, Course by Course

2009-11-10T09:52:00.004-05:00

Each week leading up to Thanksgiving, we're going to supply you with delicious recipes for each course, including what to do with the leftovers! Thanksgiving can be a stressful time if you're hosting the holiday, so Folino Homes wants to help!

First, we'll start with the appetizers. Brought to you by FoodNetwork.com, this amazingly tasty looking soup by Emeril is sure to be a crowd pleaser. It's called Smoked Sausage, Butternut Squash, and Wild Mushroom Soup. Keep reading for the recipe!

Ingredients:
2 medium butternut squash, about 3 to 4 pounds, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
12 cups chicken stock
2 1/2 cups chopped onions
1 cup wild rice
3/4 pound smoked sausage, such as kielbasa, cut into 1/4-inch
2 cups fresh corn kernels
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Season the squash with 1 tablespoon of the oil, salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until tender. Remove from the oven and cool completely. In a blender or food processor, puree the squash with 2 cups of the chicken stock. Puree until smooth and set aside.
In a saucepan, over medium heat, bring 4 cups of the stock and 1/2 cup of the chopped onions to a simmer. Stir in the rice and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 1 hour, stirring occasionally with a fork. Remove the rice from the pan and cool. In a large saucepan, over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. When the oil is hot, add the sausage and brown for 3 minutes. Add the remaining 2 cups of onions and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Saute for 3 minutes. Add the remaining 6 cups of stock and squash puree. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Skim off any fat that rises to the surface. Stir in the rice and continue to cook for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, stir in the half-and-half and reason with salt and pepper. Stir in the parsley and serve.

Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes Yield: 10 Servings

Stay tuned for some unique side dishes next week!

Tax Credit Progress

2009-11-04T11:50:00.002-05:00

Great news! It's looking as if the tax credit will be extended and legislation may potentially reach President Obama for his signature this week! It's also looking as if they may include a reduced version of it to move-up buyers as well. The proposal would provide a tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers and up to $6,500 for move-up buyers who sign a contract to buy a home on or before April 30, 2010. Move-up buyers are eligible “so long as the home they are leaving has been used as their principal residence for five years or more.”

Further stipulations include the income limits for both first-time and move-up buyers would be increased to $125,000 for an individual and $225,000 for couples filing a joint return. The cost of the house can’t be more than $800,000.

Responding to reports of suspected fraud among individuals who have claimed the tax credit, the proposal also requires the taxpayer claiming the credit to attach the HUD-1 settlement statement to their return and gives the IRS greater oversight during processing returns instead of having to wait for an audit to question the claim.

If the bill passes as it’s now proposed, Walt Molony, a spokesman for the National Association of Realtors says it may be enough to stabilize the housing market. Let's keep our fingers crossed!

Color-A-Home

2009-11-02T09:47:00.000-05:00

Better Homes and Garden has the neatest tool on their website. It's called Color-A-Home, and it allows you to test out tons of exterior colors on your home, like the roof, siding, shutters, etc. This is a great tool to test out prior to building or remodeling your home. It's really difficult to envision the final look of a home just by putting together the swatches in a showroom. Even if the house looks nothing like yours, at least you can see how the colors look together. You have to sign up for a free membership, but it's well worth it. Check it out here!

Hosting a Halloween Party?

2009-10-26T09:47:00.004-04:00

Next weekend is Halloween already! If you're planning on hosting a bash at your home, click here for some really gross, but appropriate, treats.

First Time Homebuyers Credit; Keep it or Not?

2009-10-12T09:34:00.004-04:00

$8,000 to put towards closing costs?? Who wouldn't take it? Apparently, more people than you think. According to Builder Magazine, many Realtors were found underwhelmed by the amount of people taking advantage of the government's tax credit. Experts are saying it took awhile for people to understand what this credit was and who was really eligible. Which is a sad thing since any homes eligible for this must be under contract by the end of October. As of now.

The National Association of Realtors is pushing for the government to extend it once again, and in addition, expand the benefits. However, some lawmakers are nervous about what it has already cost. It may hit an estimated $15 billion, more than double the amount projected in February's economic stimulus bill, according to the Associated Press.

Some are suggesting trying something different, since they have not had a single person take advantage of it. Should Congress revise the stimulus and bring something back for 2010?

Having Trouble Selling Your Home?

2009-10-01T13:03:00.001-04:00

Really, who isn't these days? But, I'm sure you've heard of this thing called Home Staging. For those of you who are unfamiliar, home staging is setting up a home to feature it in the best possible way, while de-personalizing the space at the same time. There are many companies who offer these services, but for those do-it-yourselfers, here's a link to HGTV's website. It features an article for the Top 10 Rules of Staging. Pay attention to them closely, and you may just have that beloved SOLD sign in the front yard!

Get your Home Ready for Fall

2009-09-16T16:35:00.002-04:00

It's that time of year again! Winter is right around the corner, so now's the best time to get outside while it's still warm and get your home ready for the cold weather! Below is a starter checklist of some things you can do:

Protect your home from frozen pipes: Click here to learn how to prevent them from freezing.
Replace your furnace filter for it to operate at maximum capacity.
Run all gas-powered lawn equipment until the fuel tank is empty.
Check caulking around windows and doors to prevent heat leakage and higher heating bills.
Clean out gutters.
Get a professional to clean your chimney. This helps to prevent chimney fires.
If your thinking about refertilizing your lawn, now's the time!
Trim any tree limbs that may be close to power lines to prevent them from getting heavy with snow and ice, and potentially causing damage.

There are so many other things that can be done for Fall. If anyone has any other things they usually do, we'd like to hear about it!

Manufactured Homes, The Next Big Thing?

2009-09-10T09:41:00.005-04:00

Everyone knows what pre-fab homes are, right? Most of the work is done in a factory, much like shoes or computers. It gets delivered to your job-site, and wallah! You have a house. There has been much talk about modular homes gaining popularity, but it still has trouble appealing to the masses for many reasons:

1. They are not considered a realistic housing solution to the average consumer.

2. Consumers are not familiar with the process, and don't really care to become familiar

3. Social stigmas exist from the inefficiency of them in the past.

4. Difficulties getting financing, due to some lenders' stricter financing policies.

However, once you take a look at some of these homes, you may not even be able to tell the difference. Pre-fab homes are especially appealing to those looking to live in a green home or for someone who loves a really modern look. Check out this article from Builder Magazine:

http://www.builderonline.com/modular-building/6-prefab-houses-that-could-change-home-building.aspx

If you're really into the process, check out this book at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Prefabulous-House-Dreams-Delivered-Factory/dp/156158844X/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1252703851&sr=1-7

Could prefab homes ever gain as much popularity as traditional homes?

Labor Day Cookouts, Yum!

2009-09-03T10:39:00.004-04:00

Alas, the last big picnic of the summer is upon us. If you're hosting at your home, it can be quite a challenge to put together a menu to satisfy everyone's taste buds, without resorting to boring food options. AllRecipes.com has a great feature on their site dedicated to the classic recipes we've grown to love, but with an unexpected twist, such as Ranch Burgers. Check out the recipe below for an awesome Purple Plum Pie:

Ingredients:
4 cups sliced fresh plums
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 (9 inch) unbaked deep dish pastry shell
TOPPING:
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 tablespoons cold butter or margarine
Directions:
In a bowl, combine the first six ingredients; pour into the pastry shell. For topping, combine sugar, flour, cinnamon and nutmeg in a small bowl; cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over filling. Bake at 375 degrees F for 50-60 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Cover edges of crust during the last 20 minutes to prevent overbrowning. Cool on a wire rack.

Serves 8

Have a Happy Labor Day!!

Appraisal Dilemmas

2009-08-18T09:31:00.005-04:00

Everyone knows the housing market has taken a hit. You'd have to be living under a rock if you didn't, right? But possibly the most significant difficulty keeping us from getting out of this mess are the appraisals. The reason they're putting a drag on the housing recovery is because appraisals are determined by comparable homes in the area. The catch here is comparables include foreclosures and distressed sales. This needlessly is driving down the home values. Since the appraisal industry received a great deal of blame for the economic crisis, their standards have gotten stricter. A little too strict, maybe? That's why the NAHB is pushing for appraisers to have regulatory guidelines, such as expanding their comparison search to a larger geographic area. Any thoughts on this issue?

Update Your Kitchen with Appliances

2009-08-04T10:12:00.003-04:00

I never heard of this company before, until I came across this toaster in a magazine. It boasts the ability to toast baguettes, croissants, and even paninis, all with the slide of a lever. It's $129, which is actually not as bad as I would have thought, considering its master toasting abilities and sleek aesthetic. Check out the other attractive appliances on their website:

http://delonghiusa.com/index.php

The site even includes product demos. These appliances make great gifts for weddings, showers, and Christmas (Yes, I said it. It's only a little over 4 months away!)

Induction Cooktops

2009-07-28T11:41:00.002-04:00

Induction cooktops are a strange thing. It has been around for a very long time, and is considered one of the most efficient ways to cook, yet not many of us use them. It's energy efficient and boasts faster heating time. How this cooktop works is really interesting. Instead of the cooktop heating up, electromagnetic fields are used within the pan. You must use a stainless steel, aluminum-clad, or cast-iron pan for it to work. Think about the clean-up, too. If the cooktop doesn't get hot, no cooked on messes to worry about! It's also really safe with children, because as long as there isn't a pan on the stove, you don't have to worry about them turning it on. Back to the other bonus, induction creates heat almost instantly. Boiling water takes a quarter of the time of a gas stove. Check out this YouTube video demonstrating a Viking induction cooktop.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fExZOtNjUgk

The only downside is the price. They are more expensive than their counterparts, but they're also 84% more efficient energy-wise. You can always start off with a stand-alone burner for around $150. Below is an example of a Kenmore Elite version at Sears:

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_02242900000P?vName=Kenmore&cName=Cooktops,Ranges&Ovens&sName=Built-In%20Cooking&psid=FROOGLE01&sid=IDx20070921x00003a#descriptionAnchor

Does anyone have an induction cooktop and would like to give their thoughts?

Leftover Paint? Ancient History...

2009-07-23T11:18:00.004-04:00

I probably should have heard of this before, but there is something online called a paint calculator! I may be informing others of something they've known about for a long time, but how useful is this little gadget?! Many popular paint websites have them and if you click below, you can check out the Benjamin Moore's version. Quite frankly, I'm excited to never have to worry about purchasing excess paint again!

Paint Calculator

New Trend

2009-07-10T11:05:00.003-04:00

Recently, AARP performed a study concerning baby boomers and their parents. It showed that the number of multi-generational households has grown from 5 million in 2000 to 6.2 million in 2008. Nearly a quarter of all baby-boomers expect their parents or in-laws to move in with them. Why do you think this trend is occurring? This study is leaning towards the economy as a reason. How do you think this will affect the type of home people are looking for? To read the full study, click here.

Have a nice weekend everyone!

Sprinkler System in New Homes

2009-07-06T09:12:00.000-04:00

As some of you may know, the Uniform Construction Code has been voting to enforce residential sprinkler systems in all new homes. Most builders are adamantly against this possible adaption to the current building codes for multiple reasons. Adding a sprinkler system would increase the new home by thousands of dollars. Also, it would require ongoing maintainence and inspections, increasing the annual expenses for homeowners. Builders feel it should be a consumer choice to install the sprinkler systems. What do you think? Should working smoke detectors remain the norm?

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-03T09:22:00.000-04:00

Folino Homes would like to wish everyone a happy and safe 4th of July! Enjoy the fireworks!

Impress your Guests

2009-07-02T09:04:00.000-04:00

Imagine having this majorly sleek faucet in your powder room! Your guests would surely be impressed. Kohler has done it again with the Fountainhead Lavatories. It has a very spa-like feel to it. To read a Press Release from Kohler on their sleek invention, click here.

July 4th Picnic

2009-07-01T08:51:00.002-04:00

The weather for July 4th in the Berks County area is so far so good, so everyone should be prepping for their big picnics! This recipe is from MarthaStewart.com and is sure to please. If you click on the link, there are numerous festive red, white and blue desserts to choose from. The one I chose below is a Berry Pound Cake with Whipped Cream. Enjoy baking them!

Ingredients
Makes 2 loaves; each serves 8 to 10
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened, plus more for pans
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cake flour (not self-rising)
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs, plus 1 large egg white
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
1 cup (about 4 ounces) fresh blueberries
1 cup (about 4 ounces) fresh raspberries

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter two 8 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch loaf pans. Line with parchment paper, allowing a 1-inch overhang on long sides. Butter parchment; set aside. Whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
Put butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes. Mix in eggs, 1 at a time. Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture in 2 batches, alternating with the milk.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake until dark golden and a cake tester inserted into centers comes out clean, 55 to 60 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack 15 minutes. Lift cakes out; let cool completely on rack. Trim tops of cakes level. Cakes can be stored at room temperature, covered, up to 1 day.
Put cream and confectioners' sugar into the clean bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment; beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Transfer whipped cream to a pastry bag fitted with a leaf tip (such as Ateco #113). Pipe a ruffled pattern on tops of cakes. Pile blueberries in center of 1 cake, and raspberries in center of the other.

Ceiling Fan Appeal

2009-06-29T15:42:00.003-04:00

Recently, I was in the market for a new ceiling fan. I was definitely not excited to shop for one, but what a shocker...ceiling fans can be extremely awesome! When I think of a ceiling fan, the classic wood blades and ugly overhead light comes to mind. Well let me tell you, ceiling fans have come a long way! They're on pulley systems and everything! Just check out some of these photos, and they can be found at reasonable prices, too. I came across a really neat company, Fanimation, that sells some interesting designs. Whoever thought we'd have so many options for ceiling fans!

What Will They Think of Next?

2009-06-25T11:00:00.000-04:00

Perusing a blueprint website yesterday, an ad was featured from the company Schlage. It said "Know your kids got home safe from school with a text message". What?? I couldn't believe this, so of course I caved in and clicked on the ad. Below is the website it took me to. Schlage has a product that not only sends you a text message when the door unlocks, but can also be locked or unlocked with a text message. Technology these days...

http://consumer.schlage.com/LiNK/product_tour/

Cottage Homes Gaining Popularity

2009-06-24T11:15:00.002-04:00

It's no secret that this economy has had a big impact on how builders are building their homes for the future. Recently, Builder Magazine discussed how building cottage style homes are gaining popularity. They do fit some picky criteria for our times. Small, yet an attractive design. Do you think this style home could be built in any state or area?

Be Picky about Your Real Estate Agent

2009-06-23T14:03:00.004-04:00

Need advice on how to choose an agent to sell your home? Check out this website for starters. The Nest is a fun little site dedicated to living in general. I'm sure we will be referring to it again in the future, but for starters, read their article 9 Things to Ask Before Hiring a Real Estate Agent.

Stamped Concrete, Who Knew?

2009-06-18T15:23:00.005-04:00

Hope everyone had a great weekend! Keeping in the theme of concrete, I was quite amazed to see the things that can be done with this bland looking product. When I think of concrete, gray icky slabs come to mind. Man, was I wrong. Just check out the images below. You'll become a true concrete believer:

Stamped Concrete Patios:

Concrete Interior Floors:

Concrete Countertops:

For more great concrete ideas, including sinks and furniture, visit:

www.concretenetwork.com

A Concrete Abode

2009-06-18T15:09:00.001-04:00

Building a home out of concrete is not a new concept. Homes in Europe have been built this way for years, due to the high cost of wood. There are unlimited benefits to building your home out of concrete that many of us here in the U.S. should start considering. For example, you get lower energy bills, greater comfort, pest control, fire resistance, and less repair and maintenance. I know, I know many of you are thinking they aren't the most attractive things you've ever seen. BUT, you can actually build these structures with something called ICFs (Insulated Concrete Forms). The house below was built using this component. Looks just like a normal house, right? Would you consider building your home out of concrete? Do you think in years to come, the U.S. will shift towards building this way? For more information, click on the link below:

http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete-homes/

Terrain Gardening Center

2009-06-17T09:00:00.000-04:00

Bet you didn't know about this little gem right outside of Philadelphia, did ya? Terrain at Styer's is a gardening center, but not just any gardening center. This place is amazing. The Urban Outfitters company purchased this little nursery and turned it into a nursery center on steroids. You don't know where to look when you go there, I mean you could literally spend all day at this place! There's even a cafe for grabbing a quick bite. Your home deserves some beautiful foliage from here. Check out some of the pictures below:

Tomorrow, they are having their monthly Chef's Dinner. Unfortunately, I think they may require reservations ahead of time, but you never know? Click here to see what they'll be serving.

http://www.terrainathome.com/

Fresh Strawberry Jam...Mmmmmm!

2009-06-16T10:08:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday, we posted an entry about local markets' produce. If you recall, we mentioned that strawberries are in season right now. Unfortunately, their time with us is about to expire, but before that happens, make sure you grab yourself a quart to make some delicious, quick strawberry jam. This recipe is sooo good and extremely easy. It's from the master of everything crafty, Marth Stewart. Click below for the recipe:

http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/quick-strawberry-jam

Put Your Shingles to Work

2009-06-15T09:30:00.000-04:00

So you're probably thinking, how the heck would I put the shingles on my roof to work? It's easy with photovoltaic solar shingles. These little guys are a bit more attractive than the big, bulky solar panels, but work the same way and are just as efficient. They can even save a homeowner up to 60% of the energy bills. They are a bit pricey, but well worth it in the long run. Hopefully, the price will eventually come down as does all new technology. To learn more about them, click here to be taken to the HGTVPro website. They even have a video, so check it out!

Hooray for Local Flea Markets!

2009-06-11T09:35:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year again, where local flea markets are beginning to offer that fresh produce goodness. In the Berks County area, there are quite a few good ones. One of the best, in my opinion, is the Leesport Farmer's Market. It's every Wednesday from 7a.m. - 7p.m. and they offer an amazing variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers at great prices. Another option is the West Reading Farmer's Market. This one is relatively new, compared to Leesport's 60 years. They've just opened for the season, so don't forget to check them out on Sundays 9a.m. - 1p.m. There's actually a neat website dedicated to finding local produce in your area. Not only does it reduce your carbon footprint to buy local, but it's even better for your diet. Click here to check out this site. Does anyone else in the area go to different markets? Right now, local strawberries are in season and taste delicious, so be sure to head to the market closest to you and nab some before they're gone!

The Modern Day Shed

2009-06-09T13:25:00.004-04:00

Everyone knows what a shed looks like. Just drive by Lowes, Home Depot, or most people's backyards and there they are. A nice basic housing area for your tools, lawn mower, etc. But to some people, a shed is more than that. It's a place to get away, relax, do yoga, or read a book. Check out some of these modern day sheds that are really gaining popularity.

What a great idea! Instead of building onto your current house (where people are still able to bother you!) you can just go out back and chill out in your little oasis. Click here for more great shed ideas!

Bamboo Flooring: More than Just Environmentally Friendly

2009-06-05T09:51:00.004-04:00

Bamboo flooring in action is quite a beautiful surface, as you can see from the image above. Folino Homes installed bamboo flooring in our first green high performance home, and many who have toured the home love the look. It comes in many colors and different patterns, as well. The benefits of using this product vs. wood products are quite substantial. For instance, it is stronger than many types of wood flooring and requires no sanding, staining, filling, etc.

This is a side view of bamboo flooring. Technically, it really only naturally comes in 2 colors,as you can see, but there are tons of bamboo stains that can be used. Below is a handscraped bamboo floor for a really rustic, natural look:

To learn more about bamboo flooring, click here.

Hands off...Sort of

2009-06-04T13:04:00.000-04:00

Builder magazine's website featured an article: "Hands off...Sort of". It's about how the mass appeal for hands-free faucets never really reached the home market. Many commercial locations these days have these convenient faucets, which is great for hygiene purposes. But what about for the home? Maybe the home isn't as contaminated as say a public restroom, but they still could offer some cleanlier features. Manufacturers of these faucets have referred to them as an"imperfect technology". "One reason for this unreliability, manufacturers say, is that the motion-sensing infrared technology used by most faucets does not read dark colors well. Shiny, reflective surfaces such as stainless steel and glass also confuse the faucets and contribute to unpredictable activation."

Would you be interested in installing them in your home?

http://www.builderonline.com/faucets-and-fixtures/hands-off--sort-of.aspx

Free Deck, Kitchen Island, and $7,500??

2009-06-02T10:29:00.012-04:00

Could this really be true? It is for those who build in the Melrose Place development! Take advantage of these great deals, only through June! Anyone who builds a new home in our Melrose Place community is eligible for a free 10 x 10 deck, a 48" Formica top kitchen island with 12" overhang, and a $7,500 builder assist. Not to mention, Melrose Place will soon be home to a restaurant and a daycare. The Blandon Pharmacy has also recently opened for business, so don't miss out on these great opportunities to live in this diverse community! Check out some images of Melrose Place below:

Below are images of our Green High Performance home in Melrose Place. There's only one left!

Visit us at Open House every Sunday from 1p.m. - 3p.m.!

Fire Up the Grill!

2009-06-02T10:11:00.003-04:00

Perhaps the greatest thing about Summer is being able to cook on the grill. Food just doesn't taste the same without that grilled goodness. The Food Network's website offers an Ultimate Grilling Guide, with delicious recipes, tools, and tips for grilling. (By the way, if you've never tried grilling fruit you must give it a try; so delicious!) AllRecipes.com also has a video on grilling pizza:
http://allrecipes.com/HowTo/Grilling-Pizza-Video/Detail.aspx
You can grill almost anything these days, so fire it up!

Composter

2009-06-01T14:57:00.000-04:00

No, this isn't something that came down from space, it's a composter! And for anyone with a garden, a composter is an essential ingredient. You can make your own, or purchase a higher-tech system from Lowe's or Home Depot. The way it works isn't the most pretty of things, but you'll get an amazing garden fertilizer naturally. Just don't think about how it happened... (hint it has to do with worms). Not to mention, you're doing something great for the environment by essentially recycling your own trash. Here's a great website to learn how composters work!

http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4587635_a-composter-work.html

Click here to be taken to Home Depot's website to check out some composters.

And for those do-it-yourselfers, click here for directions on how to build your own.

Weekend Projects for Your Home

2009-05-29T09:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday! It's supposed to be great weather this weekend in the Berks County area and that means it's a great home improvement weekend. (Only for some; others enjoy yourself at the pool!) The Better Homes and Gardens website, referenced a lot, but such a great resource, features a page dedicated to quick, inexpensive weekend projects. There's so many options from remodeling, to gardening, to decorating. Get some great ideas here! (In between any fun projects you have planned, don't forget to check out the Home Spectacular going on this weekend!)

Don't Forget the Spectacular Event!

2009-05-28T10:11:00.000-04:00

Just a reminder to stop by our Home Spectacular, starting tomorrow through Sunday! We've entered our High Performance Energy Star rated home. If you didn't catch the special insert in the Reading Eagle yesterday, there's an entry form (with extra copies at the homes available) for you to fill out at each home you visit. We'll be donating prizes from Pier1, and also giving away free kitchen island upgrades to anyone who decides to build in the Melrose Place development. We're even giving away a $7,500 builder assist for Melrose Place through June!

Friday, May 29th: 12p.m. - 7p.m.

Saturday, May 30th: 12p.m. - 5p.m.

Sunday, May 31st: 12p.m. - 5p.m.

Hope to see you there!

One Good Thing About Rain

2009-05-27T13:34:00.003-04:00

Ok, so rain isn't all bad. It does have its benefits, like washing your car for free. Just kidding! In light of this rainy, dreary day, rain water barrels are the perfect topic of discussion. Folino Homes has recently decided to give away rain water barrels with each new home we sell in the hopes of encouraging homeowners to use rain water for watering their plants and gardens. If you aren't planning on purchasing a Folino home in the near future (shame on you!), here's a way to build your own:

http://www.diylife.com/2007/08/08/conserve-water-and-save-money-by-building-your-own-rain-barrel/

Also, here is a YouTube video for those visual learners:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueNXjPgdcqg

Good luck!!

Pool Season (Finally!)

2009-05-26T16:07:00.002-04:00

June is just around the corner, and for those with pools, it's that time of year to open 'em up! The Better Homes & Garden website featured an informative article about how to maintain and care for your pool, in an easy to understand way. Click here to be taken to the website's article. Happy swimming!

Happy Memorial Day Everyone!

2009-05-25T09:00:00.001-04:00

Folino Homes hopes everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day and enjoys lots of hotdogs and hamburgers!

Be Prepared for Monday's Picnic!

2009-05-22T09:02:00.000-04:00

Everyone is probably very excited to have off on Monday for Memorial Day! (Sorry to those who have to work, but you can still enjoy this delicious Rhubarb Pie when you get home!) If you're hosting the picnic, or going to one, this recipe for in-season Rhubarb Pie from allrecipes.com looks delicious! (And you can cheat by using a pre-made pie crust) Happy baking and hope you enjoy it!

Clean and Be Greener?

2009-05-21T09:07:00.002-04:00

Well, I guess cleaning doesn't automatically make you greener, but by using some of the right products, you can definitely do your part. Not only are green cleaners good for the environment, it can really increase the indoor air quality in your home since you aren't releasing all those harsh chemicals into the air. It's also great if you have children or pets who can be the most sensitive to cleaning products. Check out this helpful resource, explaining what green cleaning products are out there, and even how to make your own. (Good 'ol vinegar and baking soda does the trick.) And if this is something you would really like to learn more about, read Green Cleaning for Dummies. Not that we're calling you dummies, they just really are the best resource when you want to learn more about something! Have a great day everyone, and if you're in the Berks County area, enjoy the beautiful sunshine!

Green Knowledge

2009-05-20T10:52:00.000-04:00

Homefinder.com is a website dedicated to helping buyers obviously find homes, but they also have great resources on home buying in general. Here is an article that teaches buyers about what to look for in a green home. Folino Homes offers almost all of these features in our high performance homes, too!

http://www.homefinder.com/content/Buying-Guide:Green_Qualities_to_Look_for_in_a_Home

Don't Miss the New Home Spectacular!

2009-05-19T09:48:00.001-04:00

Hello everyone! Next week begins the event of the year for Berks County homes! Many builders in the area, including Folino Homes, have banded together to promote our Spec homes (Quick Possession) to all potential buyers. In addition to having a lot of spec homes in the area at your fingertips, you can also win some amazing prizes! For every home you visit, you can fill out a form to win. The more homes you visit, the more your chances of winning! In addition to winning prizes, you also have the opportunity to donate to Habitat for Humanity at each home. Folino Homes will have our home located at Melrose Place in the event. We also will be giving away a free kitchen island upgrade to anyone who builds a home in Melrose Place! Don't miss this opportunity at some great deals on beautiful homes! Look for information coming in the Reading Eagle, as well as the release of the event's website: http://www.newhome-spectacular.com/. Here are the event hours:

Friday, May 29: 12p.m. - 7p.m.

Saturday, May 30: 12p.m. - 5p.m.

Sunday, May 31: 12p.m.- 5p.m.

Hope to see you there!

Snap Together a Deck in No Time

2009-05-15T10:41:00.004-04:00

Check out these eco-shield deck tiles that allow you to snap the pieces together. They come with a grid pattern for easy layout and versatility. It's also made of 90% recycled materials for an added bonus! The company's website calls it "composite decking". They come in a variety of patterns and colors, too. Click here to learn more as summer approaches!

It's That Time Again!

2009-05-14T09:25:00.001-04:00

Even though this weather may seem like Spring is not here, technically the calendar says it is. When warm weather is finally upon us, you can be ready with the Better Homes and Garden plant blueprints. Featured on their site, they have all kinds of layouts for garden ideas. It can be a difficult task deciding where to plant everything and what options to choose from. Click here to check them out!

Cork; More Uses Than a Wine Bottle Stopper

2009-05-13T10:33:00.007-04:00

Below are images of cork flooring and how it is obtained. This flooring has been around for awhile, but is just recently gaining some popularity, due to its environmentally friendly trait. The reason it is considered "green" is because instead of chopping down a tree for a traditional wood floor, the bark is removed from the tree, without causing substantial damage. The tree's bark eventually grows back and can be used again. The final product is just as attractive as a wood floor, and it also can have quite a few benefits over conventional flooring options. Folino Homes is considering putting this flooring in our current spec home, The Rockingham, located in Melrose Place. What do you think about it? Check out this website to learn more:

http://homerepair.about.com/od/interiorhomerepair/ss/cork_flooring_3.htm

Smaller Houses in Demand?

2009-05-13T09:46:00.003-04:00

In light of this current housing downturn, many top officials in the housing industry have been suggesting that builders build smaller homes. Gone are the days of the 4,000 sq. ft. homes, they say. The homes contained in our Print Gallery are all in the 2-3,000 sq. ft. range, but will 3 bedroom, 2 bath homes be the new norm? The home above is 1,724 sq. ft. Would you be more interested in a home this size?

Having Trouble Deciding on a Paint Color?

2009-05-12T12:52:00.002-04:00

As some of you may have seen on our website, Folino Design is set to launch this summer. It's a company division of Folino Homes that will provide all kinds of decorating ideas and advice to new Folino Home owners as well as existing homowners. Until Folino Design opens for business, utilize this great tool from the House Beautiful website to assist in choosing paint colors for different rooms in your home. It's not perfect, considering you can't see how it would look in your actual room, but it's a start!

http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/paint-colors/

This is a faucet?

2009-05-11T10:44:00.004-04:00

Check out this faucet, designed by who else, but Kohler. This company has an amazing way of taking an average appliance and turning it into art. It's been said that Kohler actually employs artists to assist them in their design process. It really shows! Anyway, this faucet is called the Karbon and features 5 pivoting joints, allowing you to fill larger pots, easier clean-up, etc. It can even be folded up in a compact manner when not in use. Click below for the website to explore further and check out all the colors it comes in:

http://www.us.kohler.com/faucets/karbon/index.jsp

Maybe we should consider putting these in our homes!

Fighting for More Energy Efficient Housing at an Affordable Rate

2009-05-05T09:40:00.005-04:00

The NAHB posted an article stating that on April 24th, a member went to Congress to ensure housing becomes more energy efficient by offering further tax credits/incentives to include not only windows, doors, etc. but also energy efficient heating and cooling systems. They stated they would like all this to be achieved while still making housing affordable to buyers. As you may know, Folino Homes is an advocate for green/energy efficient building at an affordable price, so we would love additional help from Congress in achieving our goal!

http://www.nahb.org/news_details.aspx?newsID=9093

Reading Eagle's Articles

2009-04-27T13:47:00.002-04:00

Reading Eagle's Home and Real Estate section had 2 articles this weekend that were very informative concerning first-time homebuyers as well as how it's easy to be green. Check them out!:

http://www.readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=135490

http://www.readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=135335

http://www.readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=135336

http://www.readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=135471

Solar Panels Becoming more Attainable!

2009-04-24T10:35:00.002-04:00

Some very exciting news for Solar Panel coveters. More and more states are coming out with ways to make these guys a lot more affordable. Before you know it, we'll be seeing them pop up all over the place:

http://www.lowimpactliving.com/blog/2009/04/22/more-help-paying-for-solar-panels/

Dirty Dozen Top Foods to Buy Organic - Pesticides on Foods - Organic Food - thedailygreen.com

2009-04-23T13:16:00.001-04:00

Dirty Dozen Top Foods to Buy Organic - Pesticides on Foods - Organic Food - thedailygreen.com

Posted using ShareThis

Audits, A Good Thing When it Comes to your Home

2009-04-23T12:47:00.003-04:00

Wondering why your utility bills are so high? Worried how high they'll get after the electricity caps come off? A home energy audit is the best way to solve your problems. Folino Homes is able to give you the answers as to where the highest loss of energy is occuring. If you're a do-it-yourselfer, there's a way you can conduct one, too. Check out this checklist provided to guide you through the process:

http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/latest/DIY-home-energy-audit

Happy auditing!

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T10:03:00.004-04:00

Happy Earth Day everyone! This past weekend, Folino Homes was in attendance at the Berks County Earth Day on Riverfront Park in Reading. The event attracted a lot of residents, showing how much our community cares about our environment. This weekend, April 25th, Wyomissing will be having their 2nd Annual Earth Day celebration. For detailed information, click here:

http://www.co.berks.pa.us/wyomissing/ical/eventDetail_page.asp?date_ID=CCC9CAC9CB83CDC9CB

Hope to see you there!

Two houses did this?

2009-04-14T15:29:00.004-04:00

Mancini Model

As some of you may know, Folino Homes has started building to a higher standard, with our future homeowners pockets and the environment in mind. We currently have the Mancini Model and the Rockingham Model for sale in the Melrose Place community, which received an Energy Star certification. Energy Star recently informed us of what our two houses were equivalent to:

Eliminating the emissions from .98 vehicles

Saving 5,928 lbs. of coal

Planting 1.62 acres of trees

Saving homeowners $894 on their utility bills

Not too bad for 2 houses!

Your Home Buying Questions Answered

2009-04-08T16:40:00.003-04:00

The NAHB website has some great resources on purchasing a home in these tough economical times. There are some great articles concerning whether now is a good time, if you should keep renting, and more. Check it out:

http://www.nahb.org/page.aspx/category/sectionID=1047

Pay-as-you-go Solar Energy?

2009-04-07T09:48:00.005-04:00

California is always ahead of the times when it comes to our environment, especially in the building sector. Now, a company in CA has offered a service that would be great to emulate here in PA. It allows you to purchase the solar end of solar panels instead of having to purchase the entire panel system. You just pay for your solar energy like you would any other utility. Check it out:

http://www.envirolink.org/external.html?itemid=200904061732510.33051

Would anyone be interested in this coming to PA?

How to Claim your $8,000 Home Buyer Credit

2009-04-06T15:03:00.003-04:00

For those of you who have participated in the first-time home buyer tax credit, the NAHB has published a great article on how to claim it and help you to decide if you should claim in on your 2008 or 2009 returns. Check it out here before tax day arrives!

http://www.nahb.org/news_details.aspx?sectionID=0&newsID=8958

New Program

2009-04-06T14:39:00.005-04:00

Folino Homes is proud to introduce our new Green Remodeling Program. We offer a variety of services to make your home more energy efficient, while lessening your carbon footprint. Speaking of which, if you are curious what a carbon footprint is or your individual carbon footprint, check out this cool website:

http://www.earthday.net/footprint/flash.html

For a comprehensive list of projects we are able to do to your home, click on the pfd document on our website:

http://www.folinohomes.com/Remodeling.html