Lead Paint- Was Your Home Built Before 1978?

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

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

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

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

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

Hope to see you this weekend, Nancy Lisabeth, Grand By Builders ph 231 995 9057

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

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

Tax Credits for Energy Saving Home Improvements

No need to feel left out of the IRS tax credit stimulus plan if you already own your home. There are 2 deductions you may be able to take if your improvements focus on energy savings.

First, the Existing Home Retrofit Tax Credit (25c) has been expanded and covers up to 30% of the cost of products you have installed this year and next. This $1,500 credit is now available through the end of 2010. Items which qualify are HVAC's (heating and cooling), insulation, water heaters, windows and doors as long the products meet the IRS qualifications.

Let Grand Bay Builders assess your home as professional remodelers, to find the best methods for savings energy for your particular residence. It is important to verify that your improvements will qualify for the credit.

The second tax credit now available thru the year 2016, is the Wind Solar Geothermal, Fuel Cell Tax Credit (25d). This credit will cover geothermal heat pumps, solar panels, solar hot water heaters, small wind energy systems and fuel cells. The up front cost may be higher on these energy improvements but the credit is 30% on these as well with no cap on the cost thru 2016.

As this year's remodeling season heats up, consider taking advantage of these tax credits to reduce your home's energy footprint and reduce your utility bills.

Call us for more information or visit:
www.energystar.gov
www.nahb.org/efficiencytaxcredit

Nancy Lisabeth
Grand Bay Builders
231 995 9057

Keeping Bathtub Users Independent

As a lover of the bathtub, I am especially aware of the advancements being made in the area of user friendly tub accessiblity for the elderly and physically challenged. The accessiblity issues are many if the user can't climb over the edge to get in or lift themselves up to get out. As a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), Grand Bay Builders can offer our customers various options to either modify their existing bath tub or to replace it with a newly designed unit.

The are many retro fit door inserts which can convert your tub to a walk in shower but we also offer a Safety Bath Door insert which will maintain its use as a tub as well.

If you would prefer to replace your existing tub with something new, Independent Living USA has addressed the problem by designing a Walk-In bathtub with a door shaped to pass over the bather's knees when he or she is safely seated. The Presidential unit is UL approved and has made in the USA since 2003.

Grand Bay Builders is pleased to be able to help people stay in their own home environments as long as possible. Keeping bathing accessible is just one of the many areas where we can help.

Long live the therapy of a relaxing bath, Nancy Lisabeth

New Home Tax Credit Info

If you haven't owned a home in 3 years you could qualify for the $8,000 New Home Tax Credit. Now is the perfect time to consider the purchase of a new home- there are many on the market to choose from at great prices.

The basic eligibility requirements for the credit are: the home must have been purchased on or after Jan. 1 and before Dec. 1, 2009; the buyer may not have owned a home in the three years prior to the purchase; and the buyer must have a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) less than $95,000 for single tax payers or $170,000 for married filers.

Two factors affect the amount of credit qualified buyers can claim: it can only be equal to 10 percent of the purchase price of the home, up to a maximum of $8,000; and it is reduced for buyers with a MAGI between $75,000 for single taxpayers ($150,000 for married filers) and the upper income limit.

Don't be intimidated by the requirements. Realtors are a wonderful source of information. So consider talking to your local real estate expert and begin the fun of searching for a new home for your family.

Call me - I'll can give you the contact information for friendly, professional realtors in the area who will be delighted to share their expertise. Nancy

Refrigerator Recalls

Maytag has recalled refrigerators marketed under the brand names Maytag®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Admiral®, Magic Chef®, Performa by Maytag® and Crosley®. An electrical failure in the relay, the component that turns on the refrigerator's compressor, can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard. This recall was announced March 10, 2009.


When I saw this recall, I checked my home unit which was purchased in 2001- and discovered it was one of those recalled. I called the Maytag corporation here in Michigan and spoke to a customer service rep who scheduled service that same week. The repair was done in about 20 minutes and I feel much better having the problem corrected.


For more information call Maytag's Recall Hotline 866-533-9817

Power Outage Protection

Spring can bring some wild weather here in the Midwest. We have been helping to bring some peace of mind to our customers. Grand Bay Builders offers the protection of personal home generators. Our customers know that in the case of utility power failure, their homes will continue to function without interruption.

Generators run on the home's existing natural gas or lp fuel. They automatically sense utility power failure and switch predetermined areas or the entire home to the generator. Once the utility restores their service, the generator reverses the switch back to the utility. This process is done automatically and creates a real peace of mind during extreme weather. - Nancy

Check out this video link for a demonstration:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid14602144001/bclid14539912001/bctid14621246001

Promising New Shower Products

I'm intrigued by a new idea in shower drains that may eliminate the need for that round center drain. This Quick Drain product is a low profile stainless steel linear drain. It's 1-1/2" wide and fits nicely at the entrance to the shower or up against a wall. This eliminates the need for all 4 sides of the shower to slope to the middle and could be a valuable option when accomodating a special needs piece of equipment. www.quickdrainusa.com

Another interesting shower product is a new sustainable flooring product for wet applications. I love this idea!!- post industrial wine corks cut into 1/4" thick slices on 12" x 24" sheets. This sustainable floor is advertised as being slip resistant, accoustical and perfect for showers and pool surrounds. Cork is a great green product so this would add LEED points to a project. Being a wine lover here in Northern Michigan wine country, I'm excited about the design possiblities this flooring offers. - Nancy

www.sustainableflooring.com

"How To Expo"

Grand Bay Builders will be participating with the Traverse Area Association of Realtors(TAAR) during a "How To Expo" on Saturday March 14th. This expo is geared to help home buyers and sellers make informed decisions. Victor and I always support education and look for opportunites to share our knowledge.

Victor will be a member of the panel during both "Is There Green in Green?" seminars offered Saturday 3/14/09 11am-noon and 2pm-3pm. The venue is the Hagerty Center in Traverse City, MI located at 715 E. Front Street. Admission $3 at the door

ICF's - A solid building option

ICF's (Insulated Concrete Forms) have become a very good energy saving option for foundations and walls. When we first began seeing versions at the IBS convention years ago, we were intrigued but not sold on their stability. Much has changed over the years and we now feel that ICF's are a very good option for not just foundations but entire walls. The decision is now which product to use and there are many.

ASTM International (American Society for Testing & Materials) is the largest voluntary standards development organization for materials, products, systems and services. ASTM has now introduced a new mininum standard E2634 for ICF's. This will help ensure that an ICF product will conform to a standard to meet building codes enforced by building code officials and specified by architects.

As with any new technology, products change rapidly and new ones are introduced constantly. Victor and I make a constant effort to stay informed. That's what keeps us involved and excited about building and remodeling. - Nancy

Home Builders EXPO Feedback

Vic and I are very encouraged by the attendance and general enthusiasm during this year's Expo weekend event. Builders can tend to be "eternal optimists" - that's what gets us up and at 'em during these times. Years past many Expo attendees were really just looking with their sights on projects a year or 2 or 3 down the road. This year however, many people have projects in mind to begin Spring or Summer of this year. They were using the event as it was planned. February and March are perfect for talking to builders and designers to firm up ideas, plans and budgets. Call now so your project can be blooming along with the tulips:)

Home Builders Expo Feb 14 & 15 2009

Grand Bay Builders will be hosting a booth at this year's Home Builders Expo presented by the Home Builder Association of the Grand Traverse Area. This show is a great opportunity to meet Victor and I as one of us will be at the booth throughout the event. The members of this association are professionals in the building industry. If you have a project in mind it will be worth your time to come to the Expo. Our first choice is always to use a fellow member we know we can trust.

Hours: Saturday Feb 14th 9am-7pm
Sunday Feb 15th 11am-4pm
Tickets are $3 at the door Traverse City East Middle School 1776 3 Mile Rd TC
For more info: www.hbagta.com phone 231 946 2305

Educational seminars are offered each day - I'm presenting a seminar for Women on Saturday Feb 14th 11:30am-12:30pm. Come join the fun,Nancy

Focus: The Power of the Woman Homeowner

I'm excited to be presenting a seminar at the HBAGTA Home Builders Expo on Saturday Feb 14th 11:30am to 12:30pm. My topic is all about a very strong and powerful group - WOMEN! I hope to be speaking directly to a group of ladies so that I can explain why they are so important to the building industry and how they can use that information. I'll begin to demystify "Green" and "Universal Design" and briefly discuss 2009 color trends. My goal is to help the woman homeowner use her power to proceed confidently with her home project. Wow-that's a lot to cover in an hour!

*Be one of the first 150 women to attend the Expo on Saturday-Valentine's Day and receive a flower.

Location: Traverse City East Middle School 1776 3 Mile Rd Traverse City
tickets $3 at the door For more info: 231 995 9057 www.hbagta.com

2009 New American Home

While at the Builder Show in Las Vegas last week, I attended the seminar hosted by the builder, architect, interior designer and landscape architect of the New American Home. Their insight into the creation of this 9,000 square foot energy efficient Gold level scoring home was fascinating. This prepared me for the visit to the site - I knew what was behind the walls and why product decisions were made.

This "green" home is an elegant contemporary design which regeisters as a near-zero-energy home and was built as a laboratory of construction ideas. I look at it as a buffet of design concepts and construction techniques. Some really emphasized solar -photo voltaic cells which probably doesn't make total economic sense here in the Northern climates. However, there were many great ideas which you'll begin to see in our future projects.- Nancy

Int'l Builder Show in Las Vegas

Victor and I are attending the NAHB convention next week in Las Vegas. It's known as the International Builder Show (IBS) because the construction industry is so global in scope. It's similar to the auto show in that companies introduce their new products for the coming building season. Regional sales staff and company owners are available for us to meet and question. Over the last 25 years, we have found some exceptional new products and improved construction methods by walking the expo floor.

However, I have always felt that the educational seminars offered at the convention are the most important aspect of our attendance. Victor and I both attend different seminars during the week. This approach allows us to take in twice the information to bring back to our business in Traverse City, MI.

Undeniably, this year's focus will probably be the state of the industry due to the economy. We have seen times like this in the past and we know that things will rebound. With the knowledge we will gather during the IBS, Grand Bay Builders is positioning itself to continue to be a home building leader in Northern Michigan.

I'm excited to be heading to Vegas and will share my insights in future posts,Nancy

2009 HBA President

We are pleased to announce that Victor is serving as the 2009 president of the Home Builders Association of the Grand Traverse Area. He is proud to have been elected by his peers. Victor has always believed in continuing education for building professionals. He plans to keep the Association active in offering educational programs to its membership. - Happy New Year, Nancy