Housing Chatter delivers the news you need to know about current events in the housing market in simple terms. We have no political or institutional affiliations so you can be confident that our content and commentary is unbiased. Housing Chatter is brought to you by your professional Realtor®.

DIY Home Paving | Backyard Paving Tips

When we bought our house, it featured a towering American elm tree in the back yard that covered the whole lawn in high, light shade. It was so big a man’s arms couldn’t wrap around it (trust me, I tried). It was, in itself, a reason to go outside and relax.Then, a tiny insect killed it, ruining our yard in the process. Since the 1960s, the devilish ... Read More »

Soil Testing | Home Soil Test Reviews

Have you tested your soil? Do you know its pH? Phosphorous level? Me neither, and after 20 years of gardening, I should know better. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says soil testing is an “essential” tool that provides information on fertility and pH. Testing also indicates what amendments — lime (raises soil pH), fertilizer (increases nutrients) ... Read More »

Lawn Maintenance Calendar | Annual Lawn Care

According to Su Chi Straka-Phillis, a residential real estate appraiser with Central Appraisal Services of Parma, Ohio, a well-kept lawn preserves a home’s value. Put off routine maintenance, and you risk devaluing your home. In fact, an unkempt lawn can be a warning sign to buyers of other potential home maintenance issues, explains Cecilia Sherrard, a ... Read More »

Flower Garden Design Mistakes | Landscaping and Gardening Tips

When designing your first flower garden, you’re bound to make some mistakes.Nick Statton of Monrovia plant sellers says beginners don’t ask enough questions or read planting labels. The cure? Don’t be shy about bugging your local plant growers with basic inquiries — they’re there to help!George Pisegna of The Horticultural Society of New York says ... Read More »

Building the Great Outdoors Room

By Wendy Koch, USA TODAY Tired of mowing the lawn? Want an outdoor oasis that feels as much like home as your house? As Americans try to maximize the space of their existing homes, they’re increasingly looking outside to create new, rejuvenating places. “More people are realizing that home begins when you set foot on your property, not just when you ... Read More »

Ceiling Fan Home Cooling Benefits

A ceiling fan doesn’t actually cool a room, but it does make you feel cooler because of the slight wind chill on your skin. That means you can raise the thermostat and feel just as comfortable.Switching out an existing overhead light fixture for a ceiling fan is a fairly simple project that a handy DIYer can do in a couple of hours.Keep house cool at low ... Read More »

Water Damage Home Repair | Water Damage Cleanup

Drying out after water damage should top any cleanup priority list. If you can dry items within 48 hours, you might salvage many goods, and avoid mold and rust.1. Move air naturally: If humidity isn’t too high, open windows and doors to start air circulating. Open closet and cabinet doors, and remove drawers.2. Move air mechanically: Rent or buy ... Read More »

Evidence suggests anti-foreclosure laws may backfire | Reuters

A foreclosure sale sign sits in front of a house in Miami Beach, Florida February 27, 2009. Credit: Reuters/Carlos Barria By Tim Reid Wed Jun 27, 2012 4:45pm EDT (Reuters) - ... Read More »

Allstate encourages homeowners to take steps to reduce wildfire risk

NORTHBROOK, Ill., June 29, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Few homeowners prepare for a wildfire or take steps to ... Read More »

4th of July Parade in Your Neighborhood

It’s fun to watch a Fourth of July parade, but it’s even more fun to be in one. And it only takes three things to create a fabulous parade memory for your children: A closed-off street, such as a cul-de-sac, dead-end, or alderman-approved street closure. A dozen or so friends and neighbors with kids young enough to be easily impressed. Streamers and ... Read More »