The EPA is in the process of enacting new regulations regarding lead paint and the remodeling of homes bulit before 1978. It has long been known that young children should not be exposed to lead paint. Paint in older homes is a common source of lead paint exposure.
In about six months, new lead paint regulations will be going into effect. Grand Bay Building & Remodeling is following this issue very closely as it will effect remodeling work that we do on pre 1978 homes. This new regulation will apply to disturbed areas of more than 6 square feet of interior painted surface or 20 square feet of exterior surface- pretty much any remodeling project done on a pre 1978 home.
We know that remodelers will be required to use lead-safe work practices as defined by the Lead Renovation,Repair and Painting Program Rule. So,in the next few months,Grand Bay Building & Remodeling will have someone on staff becoming certified by an EPA-certified trainer.
Estimates for how much this will add to the cost of the average project are not yet determined. We in the industry will have a better understanding of the requirements once we are certified. Then, the remodelers and trade associates will be able to determine the economic impact of the regulation for the consumer.
Once the rules are proposed, they will be posted at www.epa.gov and open for public comment before becoming final.
I'm sure we will be hearing more about the lead paint issue in the coming months,
Nancy Lisabeth, Grand Bay Building & Remodeling in Traverse City, MI 231 995 9057
Friday, November 20, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Tax Credits For Nearly 70% of New Home Buyers With New Law
What great news for both new home buyers and the construction industry. When the President signed the tax credit extension on Nov 6th, he certainly gave the housing industry a shot in the arm.
It's been estimated that nearly 70% of all potential home buyers should qualify for some type of credit. It's now available for move-up buyers, move-down buyers and those who have previously owned a home.
As recently stated in an erelease by the NAHB: "A leading source of consumer information on the tax credit is NAHB's Web site at www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com, which saw a huge increase in visits in the days after the new law was signed. It provides basic information about the first-time and repeat buyer credits, detailed question and answer sections, and links to additional home-buying resources for consumers.
NAHB estimates that the home buyer tax credit will create 211,000 jobs and generate 180,000 additional home sales in the coming year. It is also expected to generate $9.6 billion in wage income and $6.9 billion in federal, state and local taxes."
I think that this recreation of jobs which have been lost will be a strong beginning for the resurgence of an industry which means so much to the national economy.
Nancy Lisabeth - Grand Bay Building and Remodeling LLC
It's been estimated that nearly 70% of all potential home buyers should qualify for some type of credit. It's now available for move-up buyers, move-down buyers and those who have previously owned a home.
As recently stated in an erelease by the NAHB: "A leading source of consumer information on the tax credit is NAHB's Web site at www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com, which saw a huge increase in visits in the days after the new law was signed. It provides basic information about the first-time and repeat buyer credits, detailed question and answer sections, and links to additional home-buying resources for consumers.
NAHB estimates that the home buyer tax credit will create 211,000 jobs and generate 180,000 additional home sales in the coming year. It is also expected to generate $9.6 billion in wage income and $6.9 billion in federal, state and local taxes."
I think that this recreation of jobs which have been lost will be a strong beginning for the resurgence of an industry which means so much to the national economy.
Nancy Lisabeth - Grand Bay Building and Remodeling LLC
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Update on Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension
Good news! The extension has passed 2 votes by a huge margin and will now face a final vote- late Thursday Nov 5th. Then- it's on its way to the House and the President's desk.
This extension appears to be an expanded version of the first credit. The proposal will provide the $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers and up to $6500 for move-up buyers who have been in their current principal residence at least 5 years. Incomes should be adjusted as well increasing to $125,000 for an individual and $225,000 for couples filing jointly.
This would be great news for the home construction industry as it begins to recover. As we have come to know- HOUSING equals JOBS!! and the country could sure use more of those.
Contact your Senator to voice your support of the Tax Credit Extension- by Nancy Lisabeth, Grand Bay Builders ph. 231 995 9057
This extension appears to be an expanded version of the first credit. The proposal will provide the $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers and up to $6500 for move-up buyers who have been in their current principal residence at least 5 years. Incomes should be adjusted as well increasing to $125,000 for an individual and $225,000 for couples filing jointly.
This would be great news for the home construction industry as it begins to recover. As we have come to know- HOUSING equals JOBS!! and the country could sure use more of those.
Contact your Senator to voice your support of the Tax Credit Extension- by Nancy Lisabeth, Grand Bay Builders ph. 231 995 9057
Friday, October 30, 2009
Home Buyer Tax Credit Extension?
Happy to hear that the Senate has reached a deal on extending the Home Buyer Tax Credit. The concern has been that when the credit expires at the end of November it would put a tremendous damper on any improvement in the housing market. The recovery is so precarious that this is really important news.
The process to get the Bill through the channels is expected to take at least a week. So, if all runs smoothly it could be on the Presidnet's desk for signing by next weekend or so. Fix Housing First is the industry mantra and a good website for information. Visit www.fixhousingfirst.com for more info.
Let's keep the recovery moving forward- Nancy Lisabeth, Grand Bay Builders
The process to get the Bill through the channels is expected to take at least a week. So, if all runs smoothly it could be on the Presidnet's desk for signing by next weekend or so. Fix Housing First is the industry mantra and a good website for information. Visit www.fixhousingfirst.com for more info.
Let's keep the recovery moving forward- Nancy Lisabeth, Grand Bay Builders
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Showcase of Remodeled Homes Oct 3 & 4, 2009
Grand Bay Builders is pleased to be showcasing a carriage house guest quarters during the upcoming Remodeled Homes Tour the weekend of Oct 3rd and 4th. The Home Builders Association of the Grand Traverse Area designated that a portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity. Ticket cost is $3 each or two for $5 and will be sold at each home. http://www.hbagta.com/events/?id=908
I am excited to be hosting our project on West Grand Traverse Bay during this event. Attendees will get an excellent idea of what existing space can become by using good design. I had great fun with color for this "beachy" cottage getaway!
I am also very excited that a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity. During my recent Women Build training in Columbus- Ohio, I came to realize once again what tremendous things HFH does for families of all types.
Take time this weekend to visit the projects on tour- Leelanau County is a wonderful drive along the bay as you're traveling here.
Location: 6433 S West Bay Shore Dr Traverse City, MI
Hours: Noon until 6pm Sat and Sun Oct 3 and 4, 2009
I am excited to be hosting our project on West Grand Traverse Bay during this event. Attendees will get an excellent idea of what existing space can become by using good design. I had great fun with color for this "beachy" cottage getaway!
I am also very excited that a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity. During my recent Women Build training in Columbus- Ohio, I came to realize once again what tremendous things HFH does for families of all types.
Take time this weekend to visit the projects on tour- Leelanau County is a wonderful drive along the bay as you're traveling here.
Location: 6433 S West Bay Shore Dr Traverse City, MI
Hours: Noon until 6pm Sat and Sun Oct 3 and 4, 2009
Hope to see you this weekend, Nancy Lisabeth, Grand By Builders ph 231 995 9057
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
The Importance of Licensed and Insured
At various periods during our years in the construction industry, we have come across the problem of random workers selling their services without real credentials. This current economic situation seems to be one of those times.
If you will be hiring a builder or remodelor for a project, please do those who are licensed and yourself a favor. As you interview to find the right builder, be sure they have their current Michigan builder's license and both liability and worker compensation insurance. I urge you to be aware of the possible consequences if you hire someone without these essential qualifications.
As builders, when we have current insurance, we are protecting you the homeowner in case of injury and other liabilities. Without this assurance- you shouldn't be able to sleep at night!!
From experience, I can tell you that we have been asked to come into many projects that were left in turmoil. These homeowners ended up paying more in the long run. Remodeling is an art form that is learned through years of experience. Please don't expect someone who "used to work for someone" but is now out of work without a license or insurance to be able to perform as well as a qualified builder or remodelor.
Everyone is looking for ways to save a dollar - but hiring the wrong person to do the job could be the most expensive mistake you ever made.
Just looking out for your best interest, Nancy at Grand Bay Builders 231 995 9057
If you will be hiring a builder or remodelor for a project, please do those who are licensed and yourself a favor. As you interview to find the right builder, be sure they have their current Michigan builder's license and both liability and worker compensation insurance. I urge you to be aware of the possible consequences if you hire someone without these essential qualifications.
As builders, when we have current insurance, we are protecting you the homeowner in case of injury and other liabilities. Without this assurance- you shouldn't be able to sleep at night!!
From experience, I can tell you that we have been asked to come into many projects that were left in turmoil. These homeowners ended up paying more in the long run. Remodeling is an art form that is learned through years of experience. Please don't expect someone who "used to work for someone" but is now out of work without a license or insurance to be able to perform as well as a qualified builder or remodelor.
Everyone is looking for ways to save a dollar - but hiring the wrong person to do the job could be the most expensive mistake you ever made.
Just looking out for your best interest, Nancy at Grand Bay Builders 231 995 9057
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
New Home Buyer Credit is Now Monetized
The government is understanding that the housing industry is really critical to this country's economic recovery. In an effort to help get the housing market moving, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan has announced an even better deal for first time home buyers. Remember: if you haven't owned a home in 3 years than you also qualify for this program as a new home buyer!
Monetizing the tax credit means that the funds can now be used towards a down payment or towards closing costs. Under the new FHA rule, home buyers who are using FHA approved lenders, can apply the $8,000 tax credit to a downpayment beyond the 3.5% minimum required on an FHA insured mortgage or to their closing costs.
Check with your lender to see how this will help you with a new home purchase.
As you search the market for the perfect home, remember that we can help you with your search. As remodelors with over 30 years experience, Grand Bay Builders will be happy to meet with you at the home to discuss the feasibility of any future remodeling that you may consider after your purchase. We offer this consultation so you can be more confident in the future potential of your home purchase. We want you to know what is possible before you make the purchase!
Call me for details or to schedule a walk through- Nancy Lisabeth 231 995 9057
Monetizing the tax credit means that the funds can now be used towards a down payment or towards closing costs. Under the new FHA rule, home buyers who are using FHA approved lenders, can apply the $8,000 tax credit to a downpayment beyond the 3.5% minimum required on an FHA insured mortgage or to their closing costs.
Check with your lender to see how this will help you with a new home purchase.
As you search the market for the perfect home, remember that we can help you with your search. As remodelors with over 30 years experience, Grand Bay Builders will be happy to meet with you at the home to discuss the feasibility of any future remodeling that you may consider after your purchase. We offer this consultation so you can be more confident in the future potential of your home purchase. We want you to know what is possible before you make the purchase!
Call me for details or to schedule a walk through- Nancy Lisabeth 231 995 9057
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