Your Valuable Home: Recent Episodes
Kevin Kennedy and Ron Melk
After years on the radio, hosts Kevin Kennedy and Ron Melk have flipped the switch to podcasting! Our Home Improvement Replays can spark ideas about projects for your home. Our Horror Stories can help you avoid one. Our Featured Segment draws in experts from across the country on everything from new building products, maintaining a healthy home and leveraging home equity, to choosing the right contractor, adding value to communities and so much more. Your Valuable Home is not about DIY or flipping. It is about building wealth with real estate, choosing the right contractor to do the right job at the right price…improving communities. We pack each hour-long podcast with valuable education for homeowners and landlords who believe that knowledge is the path to wise decisions.
In our final interview about ProVia products for the exterior of a home, Chris Baker, ProVia®’s Director of Sales for Windows, walks us through when to replace old windows, and the many reasons why you should choose ProVia vinyl windows, including an outstanding limited, lifetime warranty. In the Bad Guy Bulletin today, Marc Furber from the Bucks County Pennsylvania DA’s office shares the good news of a Digital Forgery Bill that was just signed by Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania. PA now becomes one of a few states in the country to protect it residents from AI-inspired scams. In the Feature today, Ron Melk, Producer and Host, extends a heart-felt “thank you” to the listeners, sponsors, contributors, engineers and distributors who have enabled us to produce nearly 600 episodes of Your Valuable Home over 11 and ½ years. THANK YOU!!!
Caroline Blazovsky, America’s Healthy Home Expert, shares her thoughts and expertise on all aspects of the odorless killer, carbon monoxide: what it is, what produces it, how it affects the human body and the technology you can need to protect you and your family at home and when you travel.This in-depth focus on carbon monoxide, was prompted by the untimely death of a famous actress at her daughter and son-in-law’s home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania over the 2025 winter holidays. We originally posted the episode on 5/16/25. Because of the importance of the subject to so many of our listeners, we felt compelled to re-run it now.
The Your Valuable Home Podcast presents a two-part interview withMehdi Seyedmahmoudian, Professor of Engineering in the School of Engineering at Australia’s Swinburne University of Technology. Parts 1 and 2 center on the professor’s hypothesis about a weather-related phenomenon called “induced atmospheric vibration” being the root cause of tens of millions of people in Spain, Portugal and southern France experiencing a massive blackout in the spring of 2025. We also discuss, a significant, little-publicized blackout the professor personally experienced in Indonesia about the same time. In these two broad-ranging interviews, Professor Seyedmahmoudian also pinpoints factors that are straining grid capacities around the world and possible solutions that need not strain the budgets of central governments. Will the U.S. and other countries heed the call to address the shortcomings of their electric grids. We can only hope. In this episode, Ron also completes the explanation of why he decided to drop American Home Shield.
In our best practices segment, the well-known landscape architect, Carter van Dyke, explains the plight of certain species of trees in the U.S. The Ash, for example, is in danger of extinction. Dead Ash trees become brittle and break from the top down, posing to hazard that can be very expensive to deal with. In our Bad Guy Bulletin today, Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s office is back with a warning about a scam about Bad Guys posing as law enforcement officials to separate you from your money. Our Feature today concludes a series on Americans who have rental properties in other countries. This interview involves a rental in London.
If you can get overwhelmed by product choices... especially when it comes to a major exterior home re-do, you need to check out ProVia windows, doors, vinyl siding, manufactured stone and metal roofing, using the company’s incredible, online Design Center. You can even scan in photos of your home’s current exterior to see how it looks with a ProVia Perfect Exterior makeover. Jerome Zenoby, ProVia’s Director of Creative and Design, explains this wonderful online tool that he participated in developing. In our Bad Guy Bulletin today, Marc Furber from the Bucks County PA DA’s office gets into the clever ploys that keep income tax scammers busy long after taxes have been filed. Our Feature today is with Josip Rupena, CEO and Founder of Milo in Miami. This mortgage firm simplifies the process of qualifying for a jumbo mortgage by allowing Bitcoin as collateral. Amazing!!
In our best practices segment today, Chris Baker joins us to cover all the high points – and there are many – of ProVia® exceptional roofing products. Our Horror story today, involves Ron’s struggle to get the home appliance insurer American Home Shield to live up to its coverage. This time the hassle was over a DOA dishwasher in Ron’s rental unit. The last time, the hassle involved a clothes dryer in Ron’s house. After four visits from American Home Shield appliance repair people, the dryer still took two hours to dry clothes. In our Feature today, Amos Fisher, head of Vintage Millwork and Restoration, a sister company to Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, who we had on last week, walks us through the company’s exquisite products – from interior doors to custom staircases.
In our Best Practices segment today, Rebecca Edawards, Staff Writer for SafeWise.com, covers water filtration systems for faucets and for the whole house. Yes, some systems do filter out troublesome PFAS – “Forever Chemicals.” In our Feature, Mike Banta of Mid-Atlantic Timberframes fills us in on this very appealing method of home construction.
Caroline Blazovsky, America’s Healthy Home Expert, shares her thoughts and expertise on all aspects of the odorless killer, carbon monoxide: what it is, what produces it, how it affects the human body and the technology you can need to protect you and your family at home and when you travel.Don’t dismiss carbon monoxide. Listen to this episode at least twice.
In our continuing series focused on products that make for the ProVia®-perfect exterior, ProVia’s Product Manager for Manufactured Stone talks about the eco-friendly way the product is made, it’s many exterior and interior uses and its value compared to natural stone. In our Feature today, Michael Gifford, CEO and Founder of Splitero, talks about his company’s fresh approach to joint real estate ownership. Spliterocan turn the equity in your home or rental property into cash for college tuition, a new car or a solution to credit card debt.
In our Best Practices segment today we discover how rejuvenating versus replacing kitchen cabinets can save thousands of dollars in kitchen renovation cost. Cabinet rejuvenation doesn’t mean simply painting the cabinets. It’s a process that includes new doors, drawers and hardware and spray painting the cabinet bases. Our Horror Story today is about an Apple Pay shakedown that involved Ron. He got an email stating that his Apple account had been charged $139 at 3:00 a.m. that morning. That alone was odd. There was a number to call for more information. After calling the number and asking a few questions, Ron reported the incident to Bucks County Consumer Protect Weights and Measures. As it turned out, the number was for a “burner” phone. Don’t get caught in this trap. In today’s Feature, we talk with Dan Townsley about the difference a family run home care company can make. The Townsley’s Living Care Home Services offers compassionate home care across a broad swath of Pennsylvania.
In our best practices segment today, Ron and Mike from one of the two companies that manage Ron’s rentals discuss the value of hiring a management company to procure tenants, collect rent, supervise repairs and do all of the other things that many landlords simply don’t have the time to do. If you have rentals that you self-manage, this interview could change your mind. In our feature today Donna Hoffman briefs us on the move away from off-whites and greys and the introduction of darker colors. The good news: you inexpensively stay on trend with simple, darker accent pieces.
In our opening segment today ProVia’s product manager for vinyl siding provides a 101 course in residential cladding systems, best practices and the finer points of ProVia siding with Super Polymer Siding Technology. Then Marc Furber from the Bucks County, PA DA’s office briefs us on one of the latest cyber scams. Our Feature today is a fascinating discussion of Intergenerational Living, a concept that took shape recently at a symposium hosted by Washington, D.C.-based Generations United at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.
Our guest for our Best Practices segment today is Joelle Longo, newly promoted Product Manager for ProVia entry and storm doors. We talk about the curb appeal of ProVia entry doors and the painstaking process of how they are manufactured. We also get into the compatible design of ProVia storm doors and how they can be matched with any ProVia entry door. In our Horror Story, Ron draws attention to the page after page of cyber and other scams identified in the latest issue of the AARP Bulletin. AARP members can still access this issue of the online Bulletin. In our Feature, the second in a series on offshore rental properties that are owned by U.S. residents, we focus on Costa Rica. This residence in Costa Rica was creatively purchased with a self-directed IRA. Interesting!
Planning an addition to your home or a companion structure for your property? There are many steps involved, and getting the job done right requires following those steps and super coordination. In our Best Practices segment for this episode of Your Valuable Home, Jon Jacob, VP of Business Development for Hamilton Supply in Hamilton, New Jersey, walks us through the process of planning and constructing an addition or companion structure. If you’re a weekend DIYer, you probably want to leave a project of this scope to the pros. Feel free to take notes. Today, Jon also shares a Horror Story about what can happen when a large project of this type goes off the rails. Our Feature today is the first in a Your Valuable Home exclusive series about people in the U. S. who own rental properties in other countries of the world – and use them for vacations from time to time. First stop, a rental/vacation home in Fermoy, an idyllic, river town in East County Cork, Ireland.
John Perna, President and CEO of Hamilton Building Supply in Hamilton, New Jersey, provides an eye-opening tutorial on framing lumber and why his company sells only the best. If you’re planning any home project that requires framing lumber, you should consider John’s advice a “Best Practice” for specifying framing lumber. In our second segment today, John offers an example of what can happen with sub-par framing lumber. In today’s Feature, we speak with the developer and one of the first buyers in Lighthouse Row, a stunning collection of new homes in the comeback town, Atlantic City, New Jersey.
In our Best Practices segment today, Mike McColgan, an accomplished masonry pro, provides a tutorial on the different materials available to create patios, walkways and driveways. Pavers are by far today’s material of choice for such projects. In the case of walkways and patios, pavers are often combined with natural bluestone. Mike also runs down the different brands and styles of pavers. In The Bad Guy Bulletin, Mike Bannon from Bucks County Consumer Protection, Weights and Measures returns to fill us in on some scams dujour. In our Feature today, we learn about the early stages of a project to reconnect the people of Trenton, New Jersey with the Delaware River. For many years, the River was rendered inaccessible to Trentonians by a major highway that serves New Jersey’s capital city.
Marc from ABE Doors and Windows is back to offer expert advice on the proper way to install entry doors. ProVia® entry doorscome with a level built right into each door to aid foolproof installation. Marc also contributes to Our Horror Story today. Often his company is called in to replace entry doors that were improperly installed. Don’t let that happen to you. In today’s Feature, Steve Tybor, President and Founder of Eight Days of Hope, offers examples of his organization’s multi-level approach to victims of floods, fires....virtually any natural disaster that may come their way. A helping hand from Eight Days of Hope can take the form of rapid response to clear debris after a disaster, to feeding volunteers, to rebuilding homes and more. You should know about Eight Days..., in case a natural disaster ever comesyour way.
For our Best Practices segment today, Marc Rapchak, General Manager of ABE Doors and Windows in northeastern Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, explains why his company sells the ProVia® brand of windows. Then in our Horror Story, Marc recounts some of the troubling situations his crews find, when they’re called in to replace old, tired or improperly installed windows with new ProVia windows. In our Feature of the week, we catch the current owner of the one-of-a-kind Buttermilk Falls shovel-ready home site in the car on his way to take the family skiing. He explains why he bought Buttermilk and why he’s selling. This is the perfect follow-up to the interview we did last week with Jim Rogers, the architect responsible for a an incredible home designed to bridge the base of Buttermilk Falls. Listen to both.
This episode of Your Valuable Home opens with Architect James Rogers explaining the science that made it possible for him to design a 3,000-square foot-home on a “bridge” spanning the base of a waterfall. This could be one of the most enchanting and coveted building sites in the Northeastern U.S. It beckons the visionary buyer eager to create a signature home on this spot. In our Horror Story today, Nancy explains why it’s so important to scrutinize the work of an electrician called to install a 220 line in your house. In our Feature, Cameron Jaggard from the PEW Charitable Trusts provides an update on the massive initiative to save 1,000,000 acres of salt marsh on the U.S. Atlantic Coast. Pew is one of the organizations guiding this initiative to enlist nature’s help in saving coastal towns, recreation areas and a number of military installations from rising seas.
Whether you’re buying or selling residential real estate today, it is so very important to work with the right real estate pro. How do you know which one is the right one?That’s the topic for the first segment in this week’s Your Valuable Home, and we’re going to get right into it with Joe Bonacci, a realtor in New York City and a good friend of Your Valuable Home. Joe has great advice about getting to know the person, their experience, their knowledge of the local market and much more. Then it’s Bad Guy Bulletin time with Mark Furber from the Bucks County PA DA’s office. Marc talks about a colleague’s mother’s brush with one of the scammers who seize control of your computer to get your personal info and your money. In our Feature, Matt Troiani, Senior Counsel and Director of Legal Affairs for the National Association of Realtors, breaks down a relatively new scam that targets owners of raw land. If you own raw land, a scammer can access your title, sell your land and get away with the money. After a certain point, a landowner is powerless to do anything about it.
In our first segment today, Ron speaks with architect Matt Piotrowski about the viability of first-time buyers stymied by a tight real estate market building versus buying. We get into a couple of scenarios where it might be viable to build, especially if the decision includes a plan for expansion. The Horror Story today involves an electrician’s mistake that could have resulted in disaster, had it not been for the diligence of the homeowner. There’s sound advice at the end of this segment. In our Feature, we discuss with a firefight what would happen if just some of the many publicized issues with the recent LA wildfires were introduced to a small wildfire that could easily have been controlled. This ‘is something to take to heart, if your home is near an area filled with trees or brush.
We’re going straight to our weekly Horror story in this episode. During the recent presidential election cycle, seniors who weren’t on their toes, failed to uncheck the recurring donation box. Both parties were guilty of this “oversight.” Our Feature today is Part two of the story of the 20-year renovation of a historic Philadelphia mansion. This is the inside story of the work done to the home’s four magnificent stories. One of the best parts of the story is the kitchen and adjoining sunroom that, combined, equal the size of an expansive apartment. Every square foot of this home is amazing. You’ve got to hear this, and see the pictures on this week’s Your Valuable Home Instagram and Facebook posts.
Welcome to the first release to kick off the 12th year of Your Valuable Home with the story of the 20+ year renovation of a magnificent mansion in the historic district of Philadelphia. But first, our popular Homeowner Horror Story. This one involves a member of a popular hotel rewards program. This could also involve you and cause you to part with a substantial amount of money. Apparently, bad actors accessed the rewards program database. Our feature is part 1 of a 2-part interview with the current owner of a historic 12,000-square-foot Philadelphia mansion. Designed in part by one of the most famous architects of the time, Frank Furness, the home was built in 1874, by prominent Philadelphian, George Thomas. It’s situated mid-way between two of Philadelphia’s famous squares, which were designed by William Penn. The current owners, a well-known orthopedic surgeon and his wife, are restoring the 7-bedroom home with subterranean garage to its 19th century grandeur in a “mission” that’s spanned 20 years and counting. If you have a historic renovation in your future or simply enjoy stories like this, this will make your day.
In the Replay today, Kevin and Ron reveal the scams, lies, and shaky sales
pitches some contractors employ to get jobs.
In the Horror Story, we cite a bad roofing job that led to a bad siding job.
The Real Estate Roundup continues with Loretta Starck of the REMAX
Elite Bograd Team, with offices in Philadelphia, Margate, an exclusive town
area on the Jersey Shore, and Miami. Loretta briefs us on the performance
of these three very different markets in the first nine months of 2024, and
offers her views on what’s to come in 2025.
Afraid of bats? Stephanie Stronsick, head of a non-profit dedicated to nursing sick and injured bats back to health, conducts BAT 101. She explains bats’ important role in the ecosystem, their mostly docile nature and habits and a disease that ravages bat populations. You’ll also learn what to do about a sick or injured bat or a bat colony that you find in or near your home.
In the Bad Guy Bulletin today, Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s office alerts us to SMISHING that employs fake text messages to get you to part with your money and/or sensitive information. WHAT NEXT? You need to hear this.
Then, we begin the Your Valuable Home Real Estate Round Up 2024 with Joe Bonacci, an agent for Corcoran in New York. Joe explains new rules that govern the relationships between buyers, sellers and agents, the market for buyers and sellers in the five boroughs of New York City and rural areas north of the city and what he
sees happening in his markets in 2025.
Our Replay today is all about ProVia® metal roofing, the appeal, the
choices (cedar, slate and barrel tile configurations), the 50-year, limited
warranty. For anyone building a home or doing a major renovation or
roofing project, ProVia metal roofing is a one-and-done. In our second
segment today, we remember those who perished in the four coordinated
terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001.
We also encourage visits to the 9/11 memorial and museum in Lower Manhattan and the memorial and park near Shanksville, PA where the brave passengers and crew of Flight 93 took the plane down. Our Feature today is all about PFAS...” forever chemicals” that cause many types of diseases and are most likely in your
drinking water.
A subject expert from NSF, an organization that certifies water filtration systems and many other types of products, briefs us on the type of water filtration system you need to mitigate the risk caused by PFAS to you and your family.
We put our Replay and Horror Story on hold for this release in order to bring you a full one-hour interview on vacation time sharing. We talk with industry expert, Jason Gamel, about the history of the industry, a new point system that allows owners more flexibility and the enduring appeal of time sharing, especially for younger families.
SPECIAL EPISODE!!!
Host Karin Murphy puts her Co-Host "Jeopardy" Jack Cutrone from LI Pariot Radio interview Ron Melk (Your Valauble Home co-host) about the hard-hitting issues facing Americans today—from the squatter crisis and skyrocketing insurance costs to the fight for affordable housing.
After listening to today’s replay, it would be a good idea to determine if your house is properly insulated.
In the Horror Story, Ron and his friend, Master Plumber, John, set out to change the cartridge in the shower of Ron’s rental condo. They were surprised to discover that the only shut-off valve for the condo - and all other condos in the building - was in a locked room in the building’s basement. Multiple phone calls later they got the combination to the lock and completed the job. A simple plumbing job became a multiple-hour ordeal.
In today’s feature, New York State Senator Mario Mattera explains the resistance to Governor Kathy Hochul’s planned ban on natural gas usage in new residences. A suit has been filed to prevent the ban from happening. According to Senator Mattera, who has been acknowledged for his support of environmental protections, “what we need is a plan…not a ban.”
In the Replay today, we interview Sean about his choice of new
ProVia® windows. The look and the limited lifetime warranty, in
particular, stood out in Sean’s mind.
It's the 3rd Friday of the month and it's time for the Bad Guy Bulletin, Marc Fuber from the Bucks County, PA District Attorney’s Office, shares the latest in scams and shakedowns to be on the lookout for.
In our Feature, Senator Mattera explains the four related bills
he’s put forward to give homeowners in his state control over squatters. Some horrific squatting incidents triggered the timing. Don’t miss this.
In our Replay, Joanne shares the early stages of what it’s like to build multi-generational living accommodations in her son’s house.
In the Horror Story is a must-listen. If you have a timeshare offshore U.S., and someone offers you a bundle for it, think twice.
In our Feature, Eric Dunn, Director of Litigation for the National
Housing Law Project, defines squatters, the type of residences they prey
on and how prevalent squatting is in the U.S. You’ll want to hear this,
especially if you have rentals or a vacation property.
In our Replay today, with the help of New Pod City's Frank Sasso, we scam a scammer who is eager to flip off an estimate for a roofing job sight unseen and take a credit card number over the phone. You’ve got to hear this!
In our Horror Story, we warn of a timeshare shakedown that could cost you
dearly. If you have a timeshare out of the country, you could be particularly
vulnerable. Time to take notes.
In last week’s Feature, we learned from the PEW Family Trusts why housing in the U.S. is becoming less and less affordable. This week, our Featured interview will be with the famous international researcher, Wendell Cox. Wendell, who is the author of the annual study, the Demographia International Housing Affordability Report,
proves that the U.S. is not alone when it comes to unaffordable housing
and the reasons behind it. In fact, the U.S. has plenty of company in seven
other countries around.
In this week's replay, Donna Butts, Executive Director of the DC non-profit Generations United, reports on that organization’s recently released survey of multigenerational homes, and our own Kevin Kennedy and his family are applauded for their multigenerational lifestyle.
Our Horror Story today is about the case of the lost house, as told by Kim
Sledge, legendary singer, songwriter and longtime friend. Kim endured a
three-month ordeal after selling her home, and learning that her new home
was sold to another buyer. Kim also fills us in on her latest project. In our
Feature today, Tara Roche, the co-head of the Housing Policy Initiative at
the renowned PEW Charitable Trusts, briefs us on the key factors PEW
sees contributing to the unaffordability of American housing...especially for
first-time buyers. AND IN NEXT WEEK’S FEATURE we’ll learn from the
famous researcher, Wendell Cox, that the U.S. is not alone when it comes
to unaffordable housing and the reasons behind it. In fact, we have plenty
of company in countries around the world.
In the Replay, we report on two creative solutions to the danger posed by
dead ash trees. It’s time for the Bad Guy Bulletin, with a heads up on Social Security and other scams. In the Feature, learn how insurance companies respond to hail damage, the damage and theft caused by squatters and which insurer is responsible for damage to a condo cause by a water leak from above...the HOA’s insurer or the insurer of the unit above. Insurance pro, Mike Cellucci addresses it all.
In the Replay today, Kevin walks us through the renovation of a 300-year-old farmhouse.
In the Horror story, Kevin discovers a new company on Instagram and their improper installation of windows and roofing.
In the Feature today, Brad O’Conner, Chief Economist of Florida Realtors, provides a briefing on Florida real estate with an emphasis on the Gulf Coast. Properties currently on the market still don’t come up to the pre-Covid numbers, but the market is moving, despite rising mortgage and homeowners’ insurance rates.
In our replay today, we get Michele’s take on her recently completed total
ProVia exterior makeover.
In the Horror Story, a homeowner learns that the poor choice of a contractor results in a poorly installed patio door.
In our Feature, Angel explains the latest improvements
she’s made to her smallish, concrete, Mid-mod home, located where the
northern boundary of Philadelphia meets the burbs. Angel, who retired
from the commercial design firm she founded, just completed a wonderful
outdoor entertaining area that wraps around two sides of the house. This is
Angel’s third renovation of a smallish home. The first was a vacation home
in Stone Harbor, New Jersey, The second was her townhome in a historic
area of Philadelphia. Angel does not hesitate to recommend small, more
affordable homes for first-time buyers and downsizers.
In our Replay today, we arm you with questions few homeowners ask when selecting a contractor. The right answers can make the difference between a great job and a botcthed job.
In our Horror Story Today...the contractor came to install a new roof and siding, and caused massive water damage. Was it worth it? Do you know if you have 2 X 4s for studs or the newer 2 X 6s. It makes a difference in terms of the insulation in your walls.
Today, Kevin again becomes Professor Kennedy, as he explains the R value of fiberglass insulation and why you need to insulate the space in your attic and over your attached garage. Simple...hot air rises, and without proper insulation, its going to escape. Stay tuned for insulation 101.
Today’s Replay is the first of two that offer sound advice on choosing a
contractor for any type of home improvement project.
It’s time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. There’s a pretty widespread scam going on. It involves roofers who knock on your door, claiming that you have hail damage on your roof, and they can re-do your roof at your insurance company’s expense. Sounds tempting, but beware.
In our feature today, Kevin and Ron share their points of view on selecting, improving and maintaining rental properties. Both have multiple rental properties, but approach the role of landlord in somewhat different ways. If you own or are thinking of acquiring a rental(s), you’ll want to hear this.
In today’s Replay, Kevin explains the proper way to install windows and
why it’s so important. In the Horror Story, Kevin encounters a contractor
who failed to get a permit and got caught. In our Feature, we again
interview renowned architect, Illya Azaroff, about a current project
underway in Oahu, Hawaii The KO’OLAULOA Resilience Hub is under
development in a particularly isolated area of Oahu. It’s capable of housing
1,500 local residents for 30 days, whenever Mother Nature shows her
angry side. Loaded with the latest technology, and onsite sources of food
and water, the Resilience Hub has the full support of many stakeholders
and the government. It’s a concept that could be a gamechanger wherever
populations are most vulnerable to natural disasters.
In the Replay today, Kevin riffs on the pros and cons of a drip edge. The
Horror Story is about another botched window installation. Listen carefully,
so you know how to spot a botched window installation, if it happens to
you. In order to help you and/or your parents with the process of rightsizing
to simplify life and age in place, take a few tips from Rosemary. She made
the transition from a 5,000-square-foot house to a compact rental cottage.
A couple of years later, she couldn’t be happier. This interview is packed
with sound advice.
In our Replay today, Ron takes us on a 15-minute journey through Palm Springs. This oasis in the California desert east of LA was featured in our Popular 2023 YouTube series, The Coolest Neighborhoods in America.
Listen today, as Ron shares what he learned about Palm Springs during a recent trip to the epicenter of Mid-century Modern architecture and so many other fascinating things. Ron’s trip inspired two additional Feature segments. One was on Pacaso fractional home ownership (11/10/23). The
other was with George Smart, founder of U.S Modernist (12/22/23).
The title of Our Horror Story today is Everyone Thinks They’re a
Contractor.
In today’s Feature, we replay the soundtrack from the 2023 YouTube, the Coolest Neighborhoods in America – Palm Springs. Be sure to also watch the Palm Springs video of this feature here:
https://youtu.be/d4X4EGJG_Vc?si=O_VaOg94B0f_UdGY
In our Replay today, Ron gives us the inside story of his recent visit to the
architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, the Martin House. FLW
designed the house for a Buffalo, New York entrepreneur back when that
city was one of the wealthiest in America. Among many fascinating
features, the Martins became the first American family to a have a home
with an open floor plan.
In our Horror Story, trouble often happens because everyone thinks they’re a contractor.
Our Feature is the soundtrack from the Buffalo, New York video in our 5-city YouTube series, The Coolest Neighborhoods in America. The Buffalo video featured the Martin House. The entire series generated 30,000+ initial views when it was released in early 2023. To view the Buffalo video and the 4 other "coolest neighborhoods in America" visit the New Pod City YouTube channel by clicking here> https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQedu2LHREVUvDgzCRzm1NMHrbiPY9ikQ&si=0LJuVbenetAwXA7F
In the Replay today, Mike is estatic about his all-ProVia® exterior
makeover. It’s Bad Guy Bulletin time again. Makes you wonder how much
better off we’d be, if the people who concoct this stuff devoted their time
and talent to pursuits that actually benefit people besides themselves. In
today’s Feature – the notable architect, Illya Azaroff, talks about safe rooms
in a home that stay intact in a tornado or hurricane to keep families out of
harm’s way. The concept actually comes from the Caribbean. Illya will be
back again next week with a way of building back better and stronger when
homes get decimated by tornadoes and hurricanes. Don’t miss these two
shows. In fact, subscribe so you never miss a single episode of Your
Valuable Home.
In our Replay today, we discuss the criteria for SUCCESSFULLY hiring
a contractor. The Horror Story deals with sophomoric questions
posted to Facebook by a siding contractor who should know better.
The urban Doom Loop is a hypothesis developed by Professor Stan
Van Nieuwerburgh from the Columbia University Graduate School of
Business. According to Professor Van Nieuwerburgh, Covid and the
sudden rise of remote work spawned crises in terms of vacant office
space and a cascade of other troubles in big cities across America.
The professor believes things can only get worse before they get
better. The professor goes on to cite those cities most likely to fall
prey to the Doom Loop, including New York. Don’t miss this!
In today’s Replay, Kevin’s customer explains what sold her on ProVia
windows. Our Horror Story is about a professional contractor Facebook
account where they ask rudimentary questions that you wouldn’t expect
from home improvement pros. Many first-time home buyers have been
stymied by a persistent seller’s market. Now first timers in New Jersey are
getting a helping hand in the form of a forgivable loan to help fund a
downpayment. In many NJ counties the amount of the loan is $15,000. In
some counties it’s $42,000. Yes...there are requirements on the buyer and
on the properties in the program. However, NJ seems to be on the right
track to help veterans and others become first time homeowners.
In the Replay today, you can’t always take reviews at face value. Kevin
cites one that praises an improperly done roofing job. Our Horror Story
deals with a window installation that went off the rails – and the contractor attempted to justify it. In today’s Feature, we get reactions from realtors in North Carolina and California to the class action that changes the way agents for residential sellers and buyers are compensated. Who will it impact the most...sellers, buyers or real estate agents?
In the Replay, this homeowner can’t wait to get started on a whole new
exterior featuring ProVia products. It’s again time for The Bad Guy Bulletin.
We’re joined by both Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s Office and
Mike Bannon from Bucks County Consumer Protection Weights and
Measures. Both report on the latest scams, and Mike has great news for
Pennsylvania residents: home title surveillance is now available from your
local recorder of deeds for FREE. In our Feature today...in case you
haven’t heard, a class action suite involving the National Association of
Realtors (NAR) will result in a change in the way agents for residential
sellers and buyers are compensated. Will this result in savings for buyers
and sellers of residential properties? How will it impact the incomes of
agents for sellers and buyers? Join us this week and next to hear how top
real estate professionals think this change in commission structure will
impact the business.
In the Replay today, Kevin reports on a window BOGO that is a definite
NOGO. In the Horror Story, Kev spots a contractor scaffolding accident
waiting to happen on a siding group’s Facebook page. Hope the contractor
had worker’s comp. The subject of our Feature today is spring projects,
featuring decks. Steven, a Trex product manager, explains the many
reasons why Trex remains a leader in composite decking and railings. It all
comes down to great appearance, durability, value for the money, incredible warranties and a corporate ethic that drives new product innovation.
In the Replay today, Ron questions Kevin about the appeal of ProVia®
products including windows, doors, and siding, among his customers. Three
factors stand out: the ProVia warranty, appearance, and durability. Our
Horror Story today deals with the replacement of a window that failed to
meet HOA standards. As you can imagine, this caused much needless
aggravation. The subject of our Feature today is ventilation and Professor Kennedy schools us on the importance of it.
In the Replay today, Caroline walks us through the many updates Kevin
and crew have brought about in her house, one of the oldest in America. In
today’s Horror Story, Kevin shares on bad window installations. In the Feature, our frequent guest, the multiple award-winning interior designer, Donna Hoffman easily shifts gears to suggest modestly priced decorating updates to heighten the appeal of a rental property, a boomer couple’s home that they’ve finally put on the market and the home of a couple who have decided to age in a place, but the home needs a bit of a refresh. Three different solutions, all of which can be accomplished on a modest budget.
In the Replay today, we interview Sean about his choice of new
ProVia® windows. The look and the limited lifetime warranty, in
particular, stood out in Sean’s mind.
Also, the Bad Guy Bulletin is this week!
In the Feature today, Matt
C., one of the two Crypto Matts who keeps adding to our
knowledge of the Crypto landscape, is back to facilitate our
understanding of the CBDC (Central Bank Digital Currency),
being studied by the U.S. and already implemented in China and
elsewhere. Matt will cover the upside and the downside of a US
CBDC, and the fact that it is not a forgone conclusion here.
In the Replay today, Caroline joins us for an update on the major
renovation of her family’s farmhouse, one of the oldest homes in America.
Fascinating! In today’s Horror Story, Kevin tips us off to the Siding Installer
Group’s Facebook page, where there’s no shortage of incredible photos of
jobs that went off the rails. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), again joins us with the results of recent research into who is likely to be buying homes in 2024. Number one is families. Listen and learn who numbers two and three are. Jessica’s interview also contains important information on Black, Hispanic and Asian buyers. Don’t miss this, if you’re planning to put your house on the market in 2024!!!!
In the Replay today, except for a few finishing touches, it’s a wrap for
Dianne’s kitchen, featuring an expansive ProVia® window with built-in
blinds. You can pick up pointers in this final interview with Dianne. In
today’s Horror Story, a homeowner gets duped with a lie about siding. In
the Feature today, Joe Bograd, a Re/Max Elite Realtor makes his client's
properties stand out with a branding program second to none. Joe
promotes the Bograd Team on YouTube, TV, radio billboards social media,
etc. – all while highlighting properties he represents in PA, NJ, and Miami.
The bottom line: the Bograd team is a market mover even in a tight seller’s
market. There are lessons to be learned by listening to Joe.
In the Replay today, Kevin’s customer, Dianne, is ecstatic about her
expansive, new ProVia kitchen window that provides a lot more light and
a view of her beautiful backyard. In the Horror Story, Dianne shines a
spotlight on contractors who fail to return homeowner calls. Not a great
way to get business!!. In today’s Feature, the answer to the question
posed above is: regional insurers who don’t write business in western
states are prone to wildland fires, Tornado Ally, and Florida and other shoreline
states. Today, Mike Celucci from Celucci Foran in Media PA enlightens us about
regional insurers like Erie, who avoid coverage in areas prone to natural
and man-made disasters, and therefore can keep their rate increases
contained. This is an eye-opener!!!
In the Replay today, Kevin and Ron raise awareness of roofing companies
promoting new roofs and citing hail and wind damage. They’ll even
represent you in talks with your insurance carrier. Think twice before you
fall for this. In today’s Bad Guy Bulletin, we tip you off to scams you need to
avoid. In the Feature, as a follow-up to an interview we did on hazards
posed by dead ash and other trees in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, this
week’s feature is about a drive-around Kevin and Ron did with two top
arborists. What we photographed in a park in Doylestown, PA, and three
busy roads in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and New Jersey will be posted
to the Your Valuable Home Instagram and Facebook accounts. With the
high cost of taking down dead ash and other trees in PA, NJ, and many
other states, the logical first step is to simply raise awareness of the danger
of dead trees for motorists, cyclists, and hikers.
In the Replay today, Mike talks about the final stages of his Kitchen/Laundry Room reno.
In our Feature today Matthew Carletti, who monitors the homeowner’s
insurance industry for Citizens JMP Securities, explains the science and
rational behind the setting of homeowner’s insurance ratees. Surprisingly,
two families who live on the same street and are covered by the same
insurer can be paying two very dffferent rates. Not so surprisingly, both
national and regional insurers who have suffered huge losses because of
natural and man-made disasters spread their losses across their entire
book of business. This interview brings real clarity to the cost and
coverage offered by homeowner’s insurance providers.
In the Replay today, Dianne paints a picture of her new kitchen and its
defining characteristic, a ProVia® picture window with built-in blinds. In the
Horror Story, if you’re considering an HVAC split system, make sure the
installer strings the tubes inside – not outside – the house. Wow!! And in
the Feature, Matt C. and Matt P., two Crypto-savvy individuals who we call
the CryptoMatts, join us this week for an interview to advance your
understanding of Crypto and its many moving parts. We’ll cover how it
started, how it’s evolved and where it’s going as a new form of currency
and technology aimed at facilitating secure financial transactions
worldwide. We’ll learn that, after a volatile period, in 2024 Crypto appears
to be settling down and embraced by large financial institutions. You won’t
find any buy or sell recommendations here, just knowledge and plenty of it.
In the Replay today, Kevin and Ron reveal the scams, lies, and shaky sales
pitches some contractors employ to get jobs.
In the Horror Story, we cite a
bad roofing job that led to a bad siding job.
Today’s feature was prompted
by Ron’s visit to his godson’s parent’s home, where he experienced the
excellence of their refreshed kitchen. There was no need to change the
basic footprint of the cabinets, which were in great shape. So, after
weighing the cost of replacing the cabinets, the decision was made to
retain the base cabinets, make the change to new doors and hardware in a
NOW style – and paint the base cabinets on the spot in a matching “2024”
color. Add a new countertop, sink, crown molding, and appliances, and the
result is a huge WOW at a modest price. Listen to the CEO of Freedom
Millwork in Bucks County explain the project and breaks down the price for
the average kitchen. Don’t miss this!
In the Replay today, Mike talks about his kitchen project in progress.
The Horror Story has to do with another roofing job gone bad. This is vivid
proof of the need to have a roofer document his work with photos every
step of the way.
With so many people on Medicare Advantage today,
chances are many of our listeners have it – those 65 and over and others
whose parents are 65 and over. How can Medicare Advantage plans offer
ZERO monthly premiums, along with lots of FREEBIES? Can you keep
your current doctors? Are you covered when you travel? Today we talk
with an expert on the subject about everything they don’t mention in the tv
commercials.
In the Replay today, Kevin and Ron explain how a responsible
home improvement contractor can make a positive impact on a
family.
It’s the third week of the month...time for the Bad Guy
Bulletin, with contributions from Mike Bannon from Bucks County
Consumer Protection, Marc Furber from the Bucks DA’s Office
and Ron, whose mortgage holder was hacked by the bad guys.
In the Feature today, Rebecca Edwards points out top family and home safety and security products and advice on safewise.com We cover everything from a personal GPS tracker for people walking alone to the best home security system and a personal stun gun. Don’t miss a second!!!
In the Replay today, Kevin walks us through the renovation of a 300-year-
old farmhouse.
In the Horror story, Kevin discovers a new company on
Instagram and their improper installation of windows and roofing.
In the Feature, Jim Mailey, Senior Technical Training Coordinator from
Simpson StrongTie, walks us through the products his company makes to
bring about more resilience in the connections between framing members.
Something to consider if you re-do your siding.
In the Replay today, Mike talks about his kitchen/laundry room project that
Kevin is about to begin.
Like all homeowners, Mike isn’t immune to
contractor Horror Stories. Today, he shares one involving a siding job gone
bad.
In today’s Feature, Donna Butts, a frequent contributor and great
friend to Your Valuable Home, joins us to share inspirational stories of
people across generations helping each other live life to the fullest. Donna
is the Executive Director of D.C.-based Generations United. Kev, as you
recall, Donna joined us in 2021 to discuss in-law suites. You had just
completed one in your home. Anyone contemplating an in-law suite should
listen to that interview in our release the week of 4/19/21. In today’s
Feature, Donna also shares the exciting news about the formation of the
Intergenerational Housing Learning Network. The IHLN can advise about
all forms of intergenerational housing from home sharing, to co-housing,
grandfamily housing, and, of course, in-law suites.
In the Replay, Kevin is referred to a dissatisfied roofing customer to provide
advice.
In the Horror Story, Nissi explains the roofing nightmare no
homeowner should have to deal with.
In the Feature today, renowned
architect and frequent Your Valuable Home guest, Illya Azaroff explains a
scenario whereby a young family can buy and build a modest house that’s
resilient, sustainable, and expandable as the family grows. This all proves
that home ownership can be within the grasp of those who make wise,
outside-the-box decisions. Clue: the classic saltbox makes for an
affordable, expandable design.
In the Replay today, Kevin provides a progress report on major renovations
his company is doing to a 300-year-old farmhouse.
It’s again time for the Bad Guy Bulletin is our once-a-month segment devoted to exposing all sorts of scams and scammers.
George Smart is on a mission “to document, preserve, and promote residential Modernist architecture.” He’s doing that in myriad ways, including hosting a Modernism podcast and presiding over the world’s largest open mid-century digital archive. We learned a lot in our talk with George and you will, too.
In our Replay and Horror Story today, Frank fills us in on his in-law suite
which is now on the right track. The same project began as a contractor
Horror Story that lasted about a year.
In the Feature today, a deer strike will ruin your day. Getting hit by a dead, falling tree could destroy your home, your car, and/or take your life. Today we get a short, intensive course on why our landscape, including roads and municipal rights of way, holds the potential for disaster with thousands of dead and dying ash, oak, and other trees. It’s a problem compounded by legalities and complacency about
corrective measures like removing fallen trees from power lines. We
explore this little understood, but vital topic with a veteran arborist and an
an attorney who specializes in municipal and tree law. What you hear should
lead you to conclude that the people of every impacted state need to be
fully educated about the danger in the trees, and, at the least, dead trees
that have fallen on power lines need to be removed as quickly as possible
and/or taken down before they drop.
In the Replay today, Kevin reports on a large, 300-year-old house that’s
getting an extreme makeover. His first order of business: replace 40-some
windows.
In the Horror Story, Kevin reports that a driveway repaving job has gone totally out of control.
In the Feature, Kevin proves that you can take advantage of a major renovation to make major, long-overdue upgrades.
In the Replay today, we revisit Mike for the final time. The post-fire
reconstruction that became a nightmare for him and his wife is redone far
beyond his expectations.
The Horror Story involves the refrigerator in Kevin’s home, and it has a happy ending. After several attempts by repair people to fix a nagging problem, Kevin’s wife contacted the head of General Electric Appliances, and he made good things happen. Congratulations GE, for delivering outstanding customer service.
In this week’s Feature, Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research for the National Association of Realtors, shares key takeaways from the NAR 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. There are striking findings in this study that every homeowner and homeowner wannabe needs to know about. For example, first-time home buyers need to be increasingly more affluent.
In our Replay today, Kevin provides sound advice on how to vet and hire a house painter.
In today’s Horror Story, the choice of the wrong painter
results in a huge mess.
Our Featured segment today focuses on Eight Days of Hope, a faith-based organization of volunteers who have helped victims of natural disasters in Florida, Hawaii, and elsewhere rebuild.
Most recently, Eight Days of Hope expanded its mission to help young female victims of one of the most horrendous human disasters of our time — human trafficking.
This is an inspirational story told by Eight Days of Hope founder and former ProVia® executive, Steve Tybor.
After listening to today’s replay, it would be a good idea to
determine if your house is properly insulated.
It’s the third week of the month – time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. In a tip sent in by Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s office, a contractor who shook down a homeowner for thousands is still on the loose. In another
account, another shady contractor who demanded up-front money
for multiple jobs he never completed, was taken out of circulation.
In our Feature today, if you’ve ever considered buying or building
a primary or vacation home off the grid, this interview with
architect Illya Azaraoff should clear up a lot of “should I, or
shouldn’t I” questions about the upside and possible downside of
living off the grid.
In our Replay today, Jon Lapp, our sponsor Provia’s Product Manager for
Siding briefs us on the newest addition to the ProVia siding line – Harbor
Mill shingle and shake siding. Jon talks about how ProVia uses laser
technology to mimic the look and feel of real wood, the architectural styles
most suited to Harbor Mill, the myriad available colors, ease of installation,
etc., etc. If you’re thinking about re-siding your home, you need to listen to
this.
In the Horror Story, we relate the sorry tale of a homeowner who
shelled out a lot of money for an addition that didn’t happen. The
contractor then asked for more money to start. Unreal!!!
In our Feature today, we learn about the co-ownership of lux vacation homes with Chad Graven from Pacaso, a company with such a compelling business model
and a collection of outstanding homes that Pacaso scored a $1 billion
valuation six months after startup. WOW!!!
In the Replay, Mike talks about the progress made on his project, the entire
house reno. In the horror story, Mike discusses the added issues from the previous contractor, you won’t believe what he did. Working our way down the California coast, we get a briefing from Heather Chadwell on the stable real estate market of Newport Beach, where the prices of many of the homes are in the stratosphere. Then on to the last stop on the Your Valuable Home Real Estate RoundUp 2023, San Diego, where real estate pro, Gabe Mendez, reports on an ongoing seller’s market. Despite low inventory and high-interest rates, Gabe points out some areas by zip code that remain values for younger buyers.
In this weeks replay, Kevin and Ron talk about the rising costs of permits. In the horror story is Not the Bad Guy Bulletin, it is the Bad appliance Bulletin! In the feature segment, the Real estate round up in heading to California, Suzi Farajiani, expects a tight seller's market to continue for some time. The good news here is that there are also towns in the LA area where homes are affordable by middle-income house hunters.
In the Replay of the Week, PA realtor, Jeff Parkins, has terrific advice about hunting for a new home in a seller’s market made more complex by rising interest rates and home prices. Relying on Jeff’s skills and tenacity, legendary performer, Kim Sledge beat the dynamics of the current real estate market in the Philadelphia area and found a great place to downsize. The Bad Guy Bulletin is about a ray of hope in the disheartening world of customer service, where the cost is often passed on to the customer. Our sponsor, ProVia, gets an “A” for human contact, an element often missing in customer service today. And EIN Presswire, the company that distributes press releases for Your Valuable Home, gets an “A” for a great customer service system. After leaving a message for a callback during off hours in the U.S., within minutes, Ron got a call from a diligent customer service pro in Italy. In the Real Estate Roundup this week, Scott Abernathy shares his invaluable knowledge and insights into the market for residential rentals. Is now the time to buy a rental property? Listen and learn. Scott also has words of wisdom about the hottest Tennessee markets for wannabe homeowners.
In the Replay today, ProVia’s Alyssa Hostetler takes us through the ProVia web-based Envision system that helps homeowner visualize how
combinations of ProVia products for the exterior of the home work together on homes of different architectural styles and on their home,. It’s a
marvelous way to visualize the possibilities. And in the Horror Story, Kevin verbally spars with a contractor in the process of installing windows the wrong way. In the Feature today, we keep on working our way around the country with stops in St. Petersburg, FL and New York, New York...two
markets where people keep buying and prices keep rising.
In the Replay today, Scott, from Our Sponsor ProVia, is in the studio to brief our listeners on ProVia’s superb metal roofing. It’s a one-and-done roofing system available in slate, shake and barrel tile styles, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. In today’s Horror Story, we learn why a contractor had to be convinced that removing the nailing flange from a new window was a big mistake. Wow! In this the third episode featuring our 2023 cross country Real Estate Roundup, we learn about hot markets in North Carolina...Wilmington on the coast, just above Myrtle Beach, and the inland Raleigh Durham area known as Research Triangle.
In the Replay today, we interview legendary singer, songwriter, Kim Sledge,
and learn that even celebrities have to navigate a tight seller’s market to
find the right place to downsize. The continuing Horror Story s about the
experience Kevin and company are having to re-do the work a contractor
wannabe attempted in a reconstruction after a house fire. Virtually
everything that was done has to be re-done. In the Feature, we get the
word that the market is stable in storybook Talbot County on the eastern
side of the Chesapeake Bay, across the bridge from Annapolis. But in
Annapolis and most of the rest of Anne Arundel County, home prices keep
going up with a few exceptions that you may want to hear about.
In our Replay, Joann’s “Mom suite” is complete. She’s moved in and lovin’ it. It’s the third week of the month...time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. Today We discuss how, in our opinion, more and more companies are passing the cost of customer service on to the customer. Based on your experience, do you agree? In the Feature today, real estate pros in New Jersey and Pennsylvania kick off the second year of the Your Valuable Home Real Estate Round Up. Join us over the next several weeks, as real estate pros from around the country weigh in on the state of the residential real estate market.
In the Replay, Michael and Michelle describe the devastating house fire that sidetracked their lives. In the Horror Story, as if things were not bad enough, Michael and Michelle hired a contractor who was more interested in shaking them down than building back their home. In the Feature today, Patrick Gilman Program Manager in the Wind Energy Technologies Office at the U.S. Department of Energy wraps up our four-part series How We’ll Power America Going Forward. It’s going to take a mix of clean energy resources to achieve President Biden’s goals of a 100 percent clean electric grid by 2035...a net zero economy by 2050. Wind will play a large role in that as one of the fastest growing sources of electricity in the U.S. Solar, Nuclear, Hydrogen and Wind...these 4 interviews speak to the future of How We’ll Power America. We thank the DOE for insight into their enormously important work.
In our Replay today, Chuck wraps up the story of the mom-suite he had built in his house.
In the Horror Story, a homeowner learns that the poor choice of a contractor results in a poorly installed patio door.
It’s week three of our Series, How We’ll Power America Going Forward. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Sunita Satyapal, Director of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, who will explain how hydrogen is used today, and the potentially expansive use of it and fuel cells for trucks, trains, the family car and, yes, homes. Hydrogen will play a large role – along with nuclear, wind, and solar – in providing America with carbon-neutral clean energy by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050 – and in job creation. Don’t miss this fascinating and vital discussion.
In our Replay today, Chuck wraps up the story of the mom-suite he had built in his house.
In the Horror Story, a homeowner learns that the poor choice of a contractor results in a poorly installed patio door.
It’s week three of our Series, How We’ll Power America Going Forward. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Sunita Satyapal, Director of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, who will explain how hydrogen is used today, and the potentially expansive use of it and fuel cells for trucks, trains, the family car and, yes, homes. Hydrogen will play a large role – along with nuclear, wind, and solar – in providing America with carbon-neutral clean energy by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050 – and in job creation. Don’t miss this fascinating and vital discussion.
In our Replay today, we continue with the story of Chuck’s mother’s in-law suite...an invaluable story, if you’re planning multi-generational living arrangements.
In the Horror Story, a “window company” measures incorrectly and poor installation results.
In our Feature today, we get a fascinating rundown on two new types of nuclear technology sure to play a large role in How America Powers Itself Going Forward. This briefing comes from Dr. Caty Huff, Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy in the U.S. Department of Energy. This is
another Feature not to be missed.
In the Replay today, Chuck (Joanne's son from last week) completes the story of the In-law suite that he hired Kevin to build in his house.
In the Horror Story, roof contractor is FULL of excuses.
In our Feature today, we begin the four-part series, How We’ll Power America Going Forward, with subject, experts from the US Department of Energy. To begin this, Your Valuable Home exclusive will talk with Garrett Nilsen, DOE Deputy Director, about the current status and future of solar Then, in the following three weeks, we’ll dig deep into the initiatives the DOE is undertaking to develop an exciting new generation of nuclear power, hydrogen and make greater use of the wind as a power source All of these technologies working together will play a tremendous role in How We’ll Power America Going Forward. Don’t miss this series.
In our Replay, Joanne shares the early stages of what it’s like to build multi-generational living accommodations in her son’s house.
In the Horror Story, THE BAD GUY BULLETIN, is a must-listen.
In our Feature today, Brandi Snowden, Director, Member, and Consumer Survey
Research discusses the National Association of Realtors recent Sustainability Report. In this report, NAR members (brokers and agents) let us in on their customers’ perceptions and real issues in residential real estate from multiple perspectives. It’s all about brokers reporting on the stated preferences of the home-buying public. Much of this might intersect with what’s on your mind.
This episode is the fourth of a special 4 part series of listener favorites! Enjoy!
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In our Replay today, Tish shares her and her husband’s Adventure in Downsizing. Be prepared to take notes and learn from their experience.
In the Horror Story today, an “electrician” made Swiss Cheese out of a ceiling to install a few lights. Hard to believe!
Our Feature today focuses on a culprit that can change your life: Lyme. Could the chronic condition of a family member or friend be the result of undiagnosed Lyme+ Disease? What is Lyme+? Are most family practice physicians capable of identifying Lyme or Lyme+? Is the average blood test to detect Lyme effective? Is routine antibiotic treatment for Lyme sufficient? What is Bartonella? These and many other questions about insidious Lyme disease are answered by a renowned authority on the subject, Dr. Steven Phillips. Why is Your Valuable Home addressing Lyme? Because many of our listeners, their children, and their pets are at risk for this disease.
This episode is the third of a special 4 part series of listener favorites! Enjoy!
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In the Replay today, Tom explains why he and his wife decided on ProVia Siding and he admires a siding job well done.
In the Horror Story, still, another contractor claims to be what he’s not on social media.
We don’t have to tell you that more bad guys than ever are working overtime to separate you from your hard-earned money. In addition to rip-offs by unscrupulous contractors, email, snail mail, and telephone scams are definitely on the rise and the bad guys are getting bolder every day. Learn about the latest scams. Knowledge is your first line of defense!
This episode is the second of a special 4 part series of listener favorites scheduled to post over the span of the next 4 Fridays! Enjoy!
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In the Replay today, Don shares the plan for his house now under construction in the Jersey seaside town of Stone Harbor.
In the Horror Story, a new door installation reveals a potentially catastrophic
problem....no header!
If you have residential investment properties or are thinking about acquiring one, invest 30 minutes listening to Scott Abernathy. Scott is the most recent past president of the National Association of Residential Property Managers, and head of his on-property management firm – PMI Professionals – in Murfreesboro, TN. We’ll be talking with Scott about what he thinks is ahead in the market for residential investment real estate.
This episode is the first of a special 4 part series of listener favorites scheduled to post over the span of the next 4 Fridays! Enjoy!
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In the Replay today, Mike phones in an update on the installation of his new ProVia
windows and doors.
In the Horror Story, we cover the shortcomings in some
manufacturers’ warranties.
In the Feature this week, we interview Jessica Lautz, PhD, Vice President of Demographics and Behavioral Insights at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) about the residential real estate market in 2022. Will the seller’s market stay hot? Will home values continue to soar? Will interest rates help or hurt the housing market in 2022? Also, get the inside story of the NAR’s 10 top “hidden gem” markets for 2022.
In the Replay today, we wrap up Tom’s dormer expansion project. It was a tough job for Kevin and company, but the end result is just what Tom had envisioned.
In our Horror Story, we uncover the case of a contractor who started a large project without getting the required permits. He did, however, require large upfront payments.
In the Feature, Cam Jaggard from the PEW Charitable Trusts is back to explain the two key strategies in the Marsh Forward plan that will guide 300 organizations and individuals as they strive to preserve imperiled salt marsh along the U.S. Atlantic Coast.
Strategy 1: Protect and restore the health and functions of existing salt marsh and Strategy 2: Conserve marsh migration corridors and remove or retrofit barriers to ensure salt marshes can shift (migrate) as sea levels rise.
If you live along any of the country’s coastlines, you need to hear this.
In our Replay today, Tom and Kevin explain the intricate job of adding livable space in the dormers of Tom’s home.
In the Horror Story, a homeowner is left with a lot of problems in a project done by a contractor his HOA approved.
Our Feature today is about a massive project to rescue a vital natural resource. Coastal salt marsh performs multiple important functions, like serving as a carbon sink and an effective line of defense against rising seas. A massive initiative is underway to save 1,000,000 acres of salt marsh where many of our listeners reside in coastal North and South Carolina, Georgia and the upper East Coast of Florida. Cameron (Cam) Jaggard from the PEW Charitable Trusts is with us to explain how PEW and 300-some organizations and individuals, including the Department of Defense and the Gullah Geechee people (direct descendants of slaves) came together to save the salt marsh. This is the first of a two-part interview with Cam. Part two comes next week when he shares the key points of Marsh Forward, the actual plan to rescue this all-important natural resource.
In our Replay today, Bud, who has been around home improvement
contracting much of his life, talks about what’s wrong with the industry
today, and what can be done to fix it.
It’s once again time for the Bad Guy
Bulletin with tips on scams to guard against like the recent flurry of Pay Pal
hoaxes. The scammer’s goal is to get you to call and volunteer your
information. Don’t do it. Even people without PayPal accounts are being
hounded by this scam. We also talk about AI, a technological “advance”
bound to become a scammer’s dream.
Can a wildland fire threaten your
community? The answer is “yes,” especially if you live in the far suburbs or
a rural area. Given the right fuel and other conditions conducive to fire,
your community could be confronted with a wildland fire, as was the case
recently in eastern Canada. A veteran volunteer firefighter is with us today
for a short course on wildland fires, how they start, what sends them out of
control, how communities and individual homeowners can mitigate the
threat they pose, and the damage they cause. If you live in an area with lots
of vegetation that becomes excessively parched, you need to hear this.
In our Replay today, Kevin grills a builder local to our area on the proper
and improper installation of building products. The Horror Story is about a
homeowner who gave a contractor one-half of the estimated cost of
building a shed. The contractor hasn’t been seen since. The lesson:
beware contractors seeking excessive front money. When a home
improvement project goes bad, it often tracks back to a lack of knowledge
or due diligence in selecting a contractor – and a lack of detail on the
project estimate/agreement. In our Feature today, Kevin and Ron offer a
refresher course on line items that should be in all home improvement
contracts, as well as points that should be specific to specific projects...say
windows and siding. Listening to this feature could save you a lot of money
and aggravation in home improvement projects.
In our Replay today, Kevin and Ron discuss the planning and execution of
a major ProVia® window project. In the Horror Story, this homeowner paid
for a new roof and instead got new shingles installed right over the old
ones...a major roofing no-no. In our Featured Segment today, we learn
about ONE-PS, the neighborhood association model that has been working
wonders in Palm Spring California. One-PS is the entity that unites over 50
neighborhood associations in this California town of some 45,000 people.
All of these neighborhood entities work for the good of their neighborhoods,
as well as the common good of Palm Springs. It’s a public/private
partnership that results in events such as Modernism Week, a showcase
for the city’s collection of Mid Mod residential architecture that attracts
thousands of people and many thousands of dollars to this city. ONE-PS
also publishes a magazine that is a great aid to anyone looking to buy real
estate in Palm Springs or vacation there. This is a fascinating lesson about
the collaboration, camaraderie and community spirit that can result when
residents work together. This interview was with four of the top organizers
of ONE-PS.
In our Replay today, with the help of New Pod City's Frank Sasso, we scam a scammer who is eager to flip off an estimate for a roofing job sight unseen and take a credit card number over the phone. You’ve got to hear this!
In the Horror Story today, social media ads enable a scare tactic to make a roofing sale.
In today’s feature, we do a fascinating interview with Chase Morrill, one of the hosts of the hit Magnolia Network show, Maine Cabin Masters. How did the show, now in its eighth season, get started? Will the cast take on projects outside the State of Maine? What are the backgrounds of the show’s three principals, Chase, his sister, Ashley, and her husband, Ryan Eldridge? What does Chase think is the appeal of the series? You’ll get the whole inside story on this week’s
Your Valuable Home Podcast!
In our Replay today, we cover a credit card shakedown that’s not to be
believed.
Often subs hired by a contractor have a mind of their own. In this
case, they also had the nerve to walk off the job.
This is the second week in a row where we pick the brain of multiple award-winning interior designer, Donna Hoffman. Ever wondered if you should hire an interior designer?
Donna will help you puzzle through that question. She’ll also talk to how to
hire the right interior designer...how to identify the right type of interior
designer for you.
And lastly, she’ll address how interior designers charge for their services. This is interior designer 101 and 102 in one fact-packed one-half hour interview with a big plus: listen for the promo code and visit Donna’s website to download a free copy of her extensive e-book for Design-It-Yourselfers.
In the Replay, we have a further discussion on the YouTube video on a more detailed installation of the windows for the Sugar Shack in Knoxville, PA! See video here: https://youtu.be/e5ZNj20TYP0
In the Horror story, Since the Trex show last week we continue with a Bad deck job, to a happy Trex ending!
If you’re feeling dissatisfied with your home’s interior, and you have the urge to design-it-yourself, relax and listen to some great advice from multiple award-winning interior designer, Donna Hoffman.
Donna explains the mistakes that Design-It-Yourselfers often make – and how you can keep from making them. These common mistakes can actually result in your home appearing smaller – and downgrade its resale value. Donna also offers a short course in how to hire the designer that’s right for you.
At the end her interview today, you’ll get a promo code to download Donna’s e-book – a $27 value– absolutely FREE. The e-book
was written specifically to help Design-It-Yourselfers benefit from the DOS and avoid the DON’T’S.
Interior design, Award-winning interior designer Donna Hoffman, free interior design e-book by a top interior designer, Free interior design e-book a $27 value
In our Replay today, Kevin and Ron discuss the frenzy of Roofing ads on Social Media, what is their agenda?
In the Horror story, a listener asks for advice on how to fix the BAD tile installation job they recently completed.
In our Featured segment today, we talk with the Trex Director of Product Marketing about all aspects of Trex decking that make it the logical choice over wood and other composites. The science and engineering behind Trex, keep it from rotting, warping, and splitting from being damaged by termites. The Trex Hideaway® Hidden Fastening System and the grooves that run the length of each deck board make for efficient installation and a great, finished look. Warranties matter. And with Trex decking and railing, you get limited residential warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years. The ever-expanding Trex product line has everything you need to create a stunning outdoor environment...the railing, lighting, furniture....even outdoor kitchens offered in partnership with another company.
In the Replay today, dad John struggles to get a contractor-created house of horrors under control. There’s a lot to be corrected, and Kevin works alongside John step-by-step to make it happen.
In the Horror Story today we talk about BAD electrical wiring in a basement, and why it is so important to get permits!
Finally, in our Featured segment architect Illya Azaroff gives us a a glimpse of how the concept of resilience in residential
construction, performance-based regulation of utilities and the 21st century heat pump will help bring about decarbonization in America, while making home ownership a better deal for Americans. Illya connects the dots for a clear view of what home ownership can be like going forward.
In our Replay today, Morgen talks about the final touches of her whole-house renovation
that began as a horror story. Kevin Kennedy helped turn things around. Today, it’s once
again time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. Marc Fuber from the Bucks County DA’s office
offers suggestions on the theft of Stephanie’s belongings by a New York moving
company. (Steph’s story was in our 3/17/23 podcast.) Ron talks about an
acknowledged Publishers’ Clearing House scam that includes a live check. Absolutely
don’t fall for this one! Notable architect Illya Azaroff, explains his role in Buildings Of
Excellence, a competition organized by the New York State Energy Research and
Development Authority (NYSERDA) to “recognize and reward the design, construction
and operation of clean, resilient and carbon neutral-ready, multi-family buildings.” This
program signals a natural progression in residential construction in America.
In our Replay today, Kevin offers valuable advice to a new listener ready to update her kitchen, family room and bath. In the Horror Story, you’ll wonder how a flooring “pro” could do such a sloppy job. Continuous Load is an engineering principle that can help recently built homes withstand strong winds...possibly even a tornado. If your home was built to codes as they existed years ago, you can achieve some of the benefit of continuous load with Simpson Strong Tie products that essentially connect different sections of a house frame to each other to form a stronger, more wind-resistant whole. The contractor you choose to do your siding can actually tie your roof to the wall framing members this way.
In our Replay, Robin talks about the plan and progress regarding her basement and bath projects.
In the Horror Story today...Is it proper construction etiquette for one contractor to offload trash into another contractor’s dumpster? No kidding!
In our Feature, Matt Sanders from PEW Charitable Trusts reports on the initiatives four forward-thinking states – New Jersey, North and South Carolina, and Maine – are taking to mitigate the damage and threat to their residents that flooding will cause in the future.
Most people don’t realize that, in a recent year, all 50 states and Washington, DC were affected by flooding. Also, according to 2022 data from NOAA, surprisingly an almost equal percentage of cumulative days with flood events occurred in coastal states and in land-locked states. This is a wakeup call!
In the Replay today, Susan shares the story of her new roof. And in the Horror Story, this homeowner was set to refer the contractor, until Kevin noticed issues with the job in
photos the homeowner sent. Good catch, Kev! In today’s Feature, Matt Skroch, Project
Director U.S. Public Lands and Rivers Conservation at PEW Charitable Trusts, fill us in
on how western states are keeping motorists and large, migrating animals from tangling
with each other on the highway. Using GPS to track the migration paths of Moose, Elk
and other large animals, PEW is teaming up with officials in Colorado, Oregon and other
states to keep migrating herds stay out of the paths of cars and trucks. What it takes
are special, animal friendly overpasses and underpasses to help the animals get from
point A to point B safely. It’s working. If you have this kind of situation in your
community, you’ll want to hear this.
In the Replay, Christina Sasso talks about she and husband Frank’s plans for the refurbishment of a cottage on their upstate PA property. The cottagewas formerly used to process maple syrup. Refurbishing begins with two expansive ProVia® windows to be installed by our own Kevin Kennedy. Inthe Horror Story, Ron relates how a routine water heater swap-out in his Philadelphia rental unit became a nightmare. In our Feature today, wediscuss the value and wisdom of making an offer on a residential property contingent upon a satisfactory home inspection. In the feverish sellers’market of the past couple of years many buyers waived inspections and bid more than asking. And many may realize in the years to come that both ofthose decisions were mistakes.
In the Replay today, Mt. Pleasant Window and Remodeling Company provides testimony to the quality of ProVia windows. The company has been a ProVia dealer for about 40 years. In the Bad Guy Bulletin today, Stephanie reveals a widespread scam that involves a moving broker and a mover. She lost everything when she turned to these two companies to store her belongings before making a move out of New York City. Turns out it will probably take an act of congress to stop this insidious shakedown scheme. Acorn Deck House has been around for years, offering home buyers prefabricated homes in the Mid Mod style. What you need is a parcel of land and the patience to see the construction process through. Acorn Deck House offers you the latitude to build small today, and expand per a pre-designed plan as the family grows. Acorn Deck House homes have a particular appeal for younger buyers who have embraced the Mid Mod style of architecture.
In the Replay today, Charla describes her bathroom re-dos. Our Horror Story today drives home the point that, bad a underlayment installation almost always results in a bad tile job. In the Feature today, PA realtor, Jeff Lavine, talks about alternatives to buying an already-lived-in home, which may be leaving a lot of prospective buyers in the lurch for one of three reasons: 1) You get there too late, 2) You get outbid by someone willing waive an inspection and bid crazy money over asking, or 3) The house isn’t that desirable. You do have options. For example, it you live or can move to an area where land is still affordable, stop wasting time looking for a lived-in house, and start planning to build your own. This is the first of two YVH podcasts that explore the options.
In the Replay today, Kevin takes us to his house on the Jersey shore to Replay the renovation of a fireplace using ProVia® manufactured stoneveneer. Visuals to be posted to Facebook. The Horror Story is about another dreadful siding and window job. The windows are new and they’releaking. Surprise! All Your Valuable Home listeners with rental properties will want to hear what Matt White from Berkshire Hathaway – Fox Rochehas to say about making money with residential real estate today.
In the Replay today, Susan shares her satisfaction with her new ProVia® entry door. Next...a hardwood floor Horror Story that proves who you choose to refinish your floors matters a lot. The wrong equipment in the wrong hands can result in a mess throughout the house. In last week’s Your Valuable Home, Kevin and Ron were joined by three members of the Placemakers Guild in a brainstorming session aimed at generating affordable ideas about community improvement. This week, Kevin, Ron, and sought-after interior designer, Donna Hoffman, brainstorm great ideas for improving the value of your home and any residential rental properties you may own in an affordable way. Be ready to take notes.
In our Replay today, Jess is back to finish our discussion about her new kitchen and bath. It’s our third podcast of the month, time for another BadGuy Bulletin. Ron and Kevin are once again joined by Mike Bannon from Bucks County Consumer Protection/Weights and Measures. As long as theBad Guys stay at it, we’ll keep exposing the scams and shakedowns so you don’t get burned. To celebrate our upcoming 100th podcast and thestart of our tenth year of doing Your Valuable Home, we asked frequent contributor, Gary Toth and two of his colleagues in the Placemakers’ Guildto offer up some low-cost ideas on community improvement. You’ll want to hear this. Little improvements can really make a big difference.
In our Replay today, Jessica, a homeowner, shares the excitement of planning a high-end kitchen and bath remodel. And in the Horror Story, Kevin shares the electrical and other issues a contractor who worked on Jessica’s house years ago left behind. This is a lesson in what happens if your contractor fails to get permits. Jessica Lautz from the National Association of Realtors and a good friend of Your Valuable Home shares a 2023 forecast of the housing market. You may be as surprised as we were to hear the NAR’s pick of 10 hot real estate markets for 2023. Hint: think southern states. Will the sellers’ market of the past couple of years persist? Listen and learn.
In our Replay today, Courtney walks us through her kitchen remodel and why she chose ProVia® for replacement windows. In the Horror Story,John Gallagher is back after discovering more problems with his daughter and son-in-law’s whole house re-do. Most people don’t know that Buffalo,New York has the greatest concentration of residences and other structures designed by the architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Our focus in Buffalo is theWright-designed Martin House, created for Darwin D. Martin and his family and the Martin’s summer residence, Graycliff, perched on a cliff above LakeErie’s shores. These two homes, in particular, showcase Wright’s prairie style of architecture and his genius for transitioning stunning, timelessinteriors with exquisitely landscaped exterior environments.
In our Replay today, dad, John, steps in to help Morgan and Conner take back control of their whole house reno. They told their story in our last previous podcast. In the Horror Story, dad does some detective work and finds many deficiencies in the job the contractor is doing for Morgan and John. In the Feature today, we explore the leafy, magical world of the Landmark district, Bungalow Heaven, with two longtime residents, Carol and Juan. Bungalow Heaven, not far from the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA, is a treasure trove of exquisitely preserved Arts and Crafts/Craftsman style homes and Stickley furniture. This might pique your interest in the annual Bungalow Heaven Home Tour coming up this April.
In our Replay today, a young couple suffers a bad case of contractoritis when the renovation of their recently purchased row home goes off the rails. Kevin lends a hand to get the project back on track. In the Bad Guy Bulletin today, we’re again joined by Mike Bannon of Bucks County Consumer Protection, Weights and Measures who weighs in on a half dozen online scams and the downside of home warranties. In our Featured segment today, the next stop on our tour of The Coolest Neighborhoods in America, the epicenter of mid-century modernism, Palm Springs. This is the location of acclaimed architect Bill Krisel’s iconic neighborhood of Mid Mod homes, Twin Palms. Don’t miss this one. It’s also loaded with images of celebrity desert getaways.
In our Replay today, we talk with Pat, a customer of Kevin’s company, VSP, about why he chose ProVia® vinyl replacement windows. Horror Stories often result from contractors either not knowing the basics or simply ignoring them. In this case lack of a proper underlayment resulted in a siding Horror Story. In our “Coolest Neighborhoods....” feature today, we zoom in on Medford Lakes in the southern New Jersey pine forest. This town was born as a resort, but grew into a year-round community. Dozens upon dozens of log homes here have been preserved with a lots of TLC. There’s also a historic log church, log coffee shop and preserved log municipal building. All of this is situated on a series of pristine lakes...a magical setting!
In today’s Replay, Debt talks about the finalization of her kitchen renovation. In the Horror Story today, Kevin intercedes (at the homeowner’s request) in a roofing job gone awry. The Coolest Neighborhoods in America is a five-week series ...a must for all YVH listeners who are fascinated by historically significant residential architecture and the way communities celebrate and preserve it. First up, the Mid-Mod neighborhoods around Philadelphia, including Monk Road, where Mid-Mod architecture is mandated, Whitemarsh Village a Mid-Mod community situated on the grounds of what once was one of the most extensive homes in America, and much, much more.
In our Replay today, Deb recaps her kitchen and first-floor renovation. Our Horror Story has to do with windows improperly installed — a disaster waiting to happen. Don’t let this happen to you. Listen in as Ron interviews Kevin about why you should start planning now for any large home improvement projects you want to complete by Spring or Summer 2023. An addition, new windows, new siding — these and other projects take time to plan under normal circumstances, However, now, with some lingering supply chain problems, lead time becomes even more critical. Plus, you have decision points like choosing a contractor, selecting materials, and other products, and possibly applying for and securing permits and the related inspections. Don’t miss this helpful aid in project planning. Have a truly Happy New Year!
In the Replay today, Brian walks us through part 2 of his kitchen and bath reno. In the Horror Story today, Kevin comes across an incredibly badHVAC installation. The homeowners heard dripping and found water on their basement floor. Turns out the water was coming from the secondfloor...the improperly installed HVAC system. Look for photos of this OOOPS on this week’s Your Valuable Home Instagram and Facebookpostings. In our Feature today, superstar pros, Brad Sullivan, head of Cider Press Woodworks, and multiple award-winning interior designer,Donna Hoffman team up with ideas for Custom Furniture that makes a statement. If you’re spending liberally for a new home or a majorrenovation, consider investing in custom furniture. A one-of-a-kind dining room table, sideboard, or buffet can complete any look from Mid-centurymodern to Arts and Crafts to Cottage or Farm House. Live Edge also has a place in custom furniture thinking. Hear what Brad and Donna suggest,and how they’ve included custom furniture pieces in their own homes.
In the Replay today, Brian fills us in on the progress being made with his kitchen and bath re-do, including an innovative solution to capitalizing on unused space. It’s the third week of the month, so we’re back with the Bad Guy Bulletin. Lots of scams unmasked today. We’re joined by Mike Bannon from Bucks County Consumer Protection, Weight and Measures, and Kim, a listener who recently avoided a combination of email and Facebook scam involving a grant. In our Feature today, we’ve talked with Dan George, head of Escape Homes, about his company’s ingeniously designed small homes that make for affordable vacation homes, guest quarters, or for the enterprising, stylish Airbnb's. The big news now is Escape’s forward-thinking, fully electrified eEscape Series. Hear all about it on Your Valuable Home.
Mike wraps up his kitchen re-do point-by point. In our Horror Story today. Another contractor installed windows without flashing. No...the caulk didn’t help! CLARIFI is a Philadelphia non-profit that’s been on this mission for 50 years, helping “more than 750,000 families throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding Delaware Valley...achieve financial resilience and positively impact their communities. CLARIFI has a positive impact on moderate to low-income families by counseling them on how to reduce debt, save, improve credit, buy homes. This is a story of hope presented by Steve Gardner from CLARIFI.
In our Replay today, Tish shares her and her husband’s Adventure in Downsizing. Be prepared to take notes and learn from their experience. In the Horror Story today, an “electrician” made Swiss Cheese out of a ceiling to install a few lights. Hard to believe! Our Feature today focuses on a culprit that can change your life: Lyme. Could the chronic condition of a family member or friend be the result of undiagnosed Lyme+ Disease? What is Lyme+? Are most family practice physicians capable of identifying Lyme or Lyme+? Is the average blood test to detect Lyme effective? Is routine antibiotic treatment for Lyme sufficient? What is Bartonella? These and many other questions about insidious Lyme disease are answered by a renowned authority on the subject, Dr. Steven Phillips. Why is Your Valuable Home addressing Lyme? Because many of our listeners, their children, and their pets are at risk for this disease.
Our Replay today is all about permits. When do you need them? Why can they sometimes be difficult to get? Our Horror Story today is about a not-so-handyman who had difficulty putting up one piece of drywall that fell down the next morning. In our Featured segment today, we talk with Mike Celucci, an Erie Insurance agent about homeowners’ coverage....particularly coverage for weather that seems to be getting increasingly severe across the U.S. For example, if you live in an area where you never gave flood insurance a second thought, what happens in the event of a freak flood? Are you covered for named storms? And given the huge increase in identify theft, are you covered if it happens to you? All questions worth posing to your insurance agent.
In the Replay today, Courtney shares her kitchen expansion reno that gives her downstairs a “now” look. In our Horror Story, Ron and Kevin debut The Bad Guy Bulletin, our once-a-month expose’ on shakedowns and scams from home improvement contractors and bad actors who use the phone , email and the post office to bilk you out of your money. We’re doing this in conjunction with the Bucks County, PA DA’s office and Bucks County Consumer Protection, Weights and Measures. Then...in theory, EVs are more environmentally friendly when they’re on the road, but battery production and disposal is cause for concern. We do a deep dive into EV batteries, solar and wind power with Barry and Chris, two listeners who are top executives in TGH Industrial Energy Services in Houston. How many tons of rare earths does it take to manufacture the batteries for just one EV? How do we dispose of used-up EV batteries in an environmentally conscious way? Which countries do most of the rare earths used to make EV batteries come from? What problem does the addition of solar and wind energy cause for energy generation providers? You won’t want to miss this absolutely sobering, thought-provoking discussion.
In our Replay today, Kevin explains the renovations he has planned for his home on the Jersey shore (AKA, the beach), a family room redo, a gas insert, new flooring and ProVia stone. In our Horror Story, we report on a contractor who is remediating stucco in a development, and doing the job wrong. PLUS, this is the first of our once-a-month Bad Guy Bulletins, where we call out the creative ways the bad guys are out to separate you from your hard-earned money. With the holidays and gift shopping on your mind, it’s easy to put a home safety check on the back burner. That’s why in our Feature today, we interview Rebecca Edwards from safewise.com Rebecca has vital information on detecting gas leaks, smoke and CO detectors, residential air quality, and the often-overlooked indoor hazards radon and VOCs. Don’t miss this, and, please, take Rebecca’s advice to heart.
In the Replay today, Tom explains why he and his wife decided on ProVia Siding and he admires a siding job well done. In the Horror Story, still another contractor claims to be what he’s not on social media. We don’t have to tell you that more bad guys than ever are working overtime to separate you from your hard-earned money. In addition to rip-offs by unscrupulous contractors, email, snail mail, and telephone scams are definitely on the rise and the bad guys are getting bolder every day. Learn about the latest scams. Knowledge is your first line of defense!
In our Replay today, Christine is lovin’ the fresh, new look of her home created by ProVia Siding, windows and a new ProVia door. In our Horror Story, a roofer’s subcontractor removed the old step flashing but didn’t replace it. A perfect reason to demand cell phone photos, if you have a new roof in your future. Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s Office joins us for the Featured segment today to talk about some of the latest cases to cross his desk involving contractors. At Your Valuable Home, we cannot overemphasize the importance of due diligence whenever you hire a contractor. Check for Worker’s Comp and Liability Insurance. Check for a license. Check years in business and references. Check! Check! Check!
In the aftermath of hurricane Ian, our entire podcast today is devoted to a fascinating interview with Illya Azaroff, FAIA, an internationally recognized leader in disaster mitigation, resilient planning and design strategies. Illya is the immediate past president of AIA New York, elected to the AIA Board of Directors as a 2023-2025 at-large director, and appointed an AIA COP 27 delegate to attend global talks on climate and disaster risk reduction. COP is a common reference to the United Nations Climate Change Conference. All this in addition to serving as Director of Design and Resilient Strategies at his architectural firm, + Lab, in New York and professor in practice at the New Your City College of Technology. The subject is Illya’s resilient, sustainable design for homes that can withstand 150-mile-per-hour hurricane winds and release water that can cause the walls of a conventionally built house to collapse. This is not theoretical. Illya built such a home in Sandy Hook, Queens, New York to replace one obliterated by Superstorm Sandy, and has since employed his advanced design concepts to construct homes in other parts of the country. This could definitely be the better way to rebuild after natural disasters. Surprisingly, it costs little more than conventional construction.
In our Replay today Phil, from New Jersey, purchased an adjoining lot with plans to build a B&B. Interesting idea! We get his initial thinking and offer some ideas of our own. Then, continuing with our series on the Southwest, Florida barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, we speak with Ed, the head of an HOA in Captiva with responsibility for 68 condo units. The focus of the interview: the challenge of shipping workers and materials to Captiva with the causeway from the mainland down and continuing supply chain delays. Aerial photos show that most of the units and related buildings are largely intact. The big questions: water intrusion and mold, which could necessitate extensive interior reconstruction.
In our Replay today, a listener is planning an out-side-the-box B&B on his large property in New Jersey. Our Horror Story and Feature are about how Florida residents are coping with their worst nightmare – Ian. We talk with Jack who has a home on Sanibel, We also talk with his daughter-in-law, Bronwyn, who with husband, Mike, moved their permanent home to neighboring Captiva this past August. Both share their perspectives on devastation Ian left behind. Like most Sanibel residents, Jack has yet to return to his home. Bronwyn reached hers via boat. Without water and power infrastructure, repairs and rebuilding will have to wait. Jack is deeply concerned about Florida’s older residents and their financial and emotional ability to re-build, He cited a frightening statistic: only a little over 15 percent of Florida residents have flood insurance. Listen again next week for Ed’s story about Captiva. He’s challenged by the availability of labor and materials to deal with repairs/reconstruction of his own condo and the dozens of other condos that are his responsibility as head of his HOA. For those homes that were not destroyed, mold will be a huge problem.
Our Replay today is about a home improvement project that can aid in planning yours. In the Horror Story, Kevin and his team find potentially dangerous wiring in the wall, while remodeling a kitchen. Lucky homeowner! In our Feature today, Leo Addimando, the CEO of Alterra Property Group, talks about how his company is capitalizing on modular construction to erect multiple build-to-rent buildings in Philadelphia, a booming rental market. Build-to-rent means that the developer owns all of the units in a building with the intention of renting – and in this case – managing them. If you’re a landlord with a few units in your portfolio, you’ll want to hear this.
In our Replay today, Mike explains the plan for his kitchen and flooring re-do. Our Horror Story is about another job not so well done by a contractor. With the changes New Jersey has made in its Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) to prepare for climate change events, its aggressive actions to electrify the transportation sector, etc. the state has become ”a leader in responding to climate change.” In the Featured segment today, the noted landscape architect, Carter van Dyke, explains the work he is doing with New Jersey municipalities to develop Hazard Vulnerability Assessments and Resilience and Adoption Strategies, as now required by the state. He also explains the interactive tools the state provides to aid the Assessment and Strategy development required of all municipalities when altering their master plan. New Jersey is working hard to be ready for the next superstorm.
In our Replay today, Jed does a final interview about his recent kitchen makeover. This could provide some ideas that will help you plan. In our Horror Story, fellow contractor Mike Martelli, shares the specifics on a home improvement mess created by a guy who was watching How To YouTube videos in his truck. Mike was called in for the do-over. In our Featured segment today, we ask lawyer and environmentalist Dante DiPirro to explain and score major elements of the new Infrastructure law and the climate portion of the Inflation Reduction Law. The scoring system ranges from 1 to 5, with 5 representing the benefits with the broadest impact. Find out how each provision or group of provisions score, and Dante’s overall score for both pieces of legislation.
In our Replay today, Tom recaps his kitchen project. Listen in and pick up some design tips. In our Horror Story, a listener was able to get a contractor to begin her project immediately. He took an up-front payment. The question: is he coming back? In our Featured segment, Kevin and Ron explain how to make selecting a contractor a step-by-step process that can help you get trouble-free home improvements and avoid horror stories. They also offer invaluable tips on getting comprehensive project estimates that won’t lead to misunderstandings about the price, the payment schedule and what’s included. Don’t miss this fact-packed half-hour.
In our Replay today, Tom talks about his kitchen makeover in the works. Our Horror Story highlights what can happen if you hire a contractor who can begin immediately. OOPS! Eight months later, this project remains unfinished. Our Feature today is about Volumetric Building Companies, a Philadelphia-based organization that is creating a major foothold in the modular construction of multi-family residential buildings, hotels, etc. in Philadelphia, other parts of the U.S., the U.K., and continental Europe. Vaughan Buckley, the CEO of the company, briefed us on modular construction. Volumetric recently built a modular hotel in Manhattan with the modules constructed and shipped from their manufacturing facility in Poland. Volumetric modules ship and stack fully loaded with interior finishings, cabinetry, and furniture that the company also manufactures! Modular construction is catching on in Philadelphia and beyond with major developers and off-shoot hotel brands. Modular construction eliminates a lot of the painstaking steps in classic construction and shortens the time between concept and occupancy. If you have been in Philadelphia, New York, or London lately, you may have seen a Volumetric building without even realizing it.
In our Replay today, Jed shares his phase 1 plan for what will be an entire first floor makeover. In the Horror Story, a listener sees through a roofer scam, and cancels the contract. In our Featured segment, we talk with Paul Prager, the visionary energy sector entrepreneur behind a Renaissance in progress in Easton Maryland on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. His hospitality company, Bluepoint Hospitality, has graced Federal Street with what anyone who has a taste for fine food and drink could desire. The Weather Gage serves exotic coffees, aromatic teas and a selection of baked goods. The Stewart features single malt scotch, vintage champagne and small plates. The Wardroom is a showcase of artisan products, premium ingredients and top wines from around the world. By day, you can enjoy a gourmet sandwich there. In the evening there’s a pasta bar. The list goes on, capped off by Bas Rouge, a restaurant that surely is among the finest in the U.S. The Prager family is all in on Easton...involved in many philanthropic and cultural pursuits. There are plans to renovate a hotel, and build waterfront homes. Don’t miss this fascinating interview, and learn where Paul Prager plans to start a Renaissance next.
In our Replay today, Kevin gives us a heads-up on contractors who swoop in to make the sale, then turn your project over to subs. In today’s Horror Story, a homeowner is told that stone replacement at a cost of $4,000 is the right fix for a leaky window. Good luck with that! We wrap up our Real Estate RoundUp this week with a look at four markets in California. First we hear from Gabe Mendez. His G Mendez Group, is ranked in the top one percent of all realtors in San Diego County. Next up, Newport Beach with Heather Chadwell. Heather is with Harcourts, the world’s fastest growing real estate company. Then to Danny Gillin with Berkshire Hathaway in Long Beach, who fills us in on value-priced homes in places like Big Bear and Palm Desert two hours east of LA. We complete our California RoundUp with input on LA real estate from Suzi Farajiani, who works out of the LA office of Douglas Eliman, a powerful real estate company with offices in key cities around the country.
In the Replay today, Kevin gets into a big issue for homeowners...insurance fraud by roofers. Why is it happening? The Horror Story today is about Dave’s frustration with the paver patio project that just won’t end. In this fourth week of our five-week-long Real Estate Round Up, we get local market reports from two accomplished, Maryland realtors...one from the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, the other from the eastern shore. Wendy Oliver, the number 3 realtor in Coldwell Banker Mid-Atlantic i reports on Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. Chuck Mangold, a principal in the Easton, MD-based firm, Benson & Mangold, covers Talbot County on the eastern shore, with special emphasis on Easton, a town currently undergoing a culinary, cultural and architectural Renaissance. From there, we go south to North Carolina’s Research Triangle to get a sense of that market from Kate Steadman of Choice Residential Real Estate in Raleigh.
Our Replay today has Kevin delving into an issue some homeowners are having with roofers who claim to have discovered storm damage in their roof, and that insurance will pay for the repairs. In the Horror Story, Dave shares his frustration with the delays in the construction of his paver patio. In this, the third week of our 5-week series, the Real Estate Round Up, we take the pulse of the real estate market in New York with Joe Bonacci from Corcoran. Joe has been named a top agent nationwide and has closed market-making deals in New York City and the Hudson Valley in upstate New York. Moving to PA, Sandy Smith, the Home and Real Estate Editor of Philadelphia Magazine, provides a snapshot of the market in southeastern PA. Then on to St. Petersburg, near Tampa, where we talk with Jac Smith head of the Jac Smith Group about that hot real estate market. So far in 2022, the Jac Smith Group has had listings and sales ranging from $168,000 to $8,500,000.
In the Replay today, Dan shares the plan for his house now under construction in the Jersey seaside town of Stone Harbor. In the Horror Story, a new door installation reveals a potentially catastrophic problem....no header! If you have residential investment properties, or are thinking about acquiring one, invest 30 minutes listening to Scott Abernathy. Scott is the most recent past president of the National Association of Residential Property Managers, and head of his on property management firm – PMI Professionals – in Murfreesboro, TN. We’ll be talking with Scott about what he thinks is ahead in the market for residential investment real estate.
In the Replay today, Dan shares the plan for his house now under construction in the Jersey seaside town of Stone Harbor. In the Horror Story, a new door installation reveals a potentially catastrophic problem....no header! If you have residential investment properties, or are thinking about acquiring one, invest 30 minutes listening to Scott Abernathy. Scott is the most recent past president of the National Association of Residential Property Managers, and head of his on property management firm – PMI Professionals – in Murfreesboro, TN. We’ll be talking with Scott about what he thinks is ahead in the market for residential investment real estate.
This is the first in our five-week long series, the Real Estate RoundUp. In our Replay, Justin Reif, COO of the Window Works Company in the heart of North Carolina, explains why his company became one of ProVia’s newest dealers. Justin also relates a Horror Story about a door installation (not a ProVia door) by a not-so-careful contractor. In today’s featured Real Estate RoundUp, Bruce Carlisle a veteran broker of raw land in Northern Georgia shares the wisdom of decades of experience, including how to value raw land, how to make community dynamics work for you, how raw land is a building block of communities and other nuggets from his book Top Dollar Dirt.
In our Replay today, Mike’s ProVia siding and window project is almost complete. In the Horror Story, a contractor who did a shoddy tile job tries to pin the blame on Kevin’s shoe molding. In our Feature, Jessica Lautz from the National Association of Realtors, explains the incredible NAR Remodeling Impact Report. The results will surprise you. The brilliance in the report is the “Joy“ index...are people satisfied with their choice of home improvement projects after the projects are complete?
What about Costa Rica intrigued this young couple so much that they make it their part-time home year after year? Is it the climate, the cost of living, the stable government? What is it? In our Horror Story today, Kevin takes exception with contractors who continue to install windows improperly. In our Feature today, John Wales, the General Manager of Cover Wallet, a company that sells Worker’s Compensation and Liability Insurance to contractors, gives us the shocking news that many contractors working in the U.S. are inadequately insured, placing their workers and their customers – homeowners – in jeopardy. John talks about what happens if a worker who is not covered by Worker’s Comp is injured on your property, and what happens when a contractor with little or no Liability Insurance damages your property. This is something you must hear and take to heart before you hire another contractor for a home improvement project.
In the Replay today, Mike phones in an update on the installation of his new ProVia windows and doors. And in the Horror Story, we cover the shortcomings in some manufacturers’ warranties. In this trying time, families are looking for ways to trim their budgets. One place to look is to your energy provider. Today we talk with two representatives from PECO, the energy provider in southeastern, Pennsylvania, as they share lots of ways to save money on energy and energy equipment. PECO offers an Energy Assessment...a comprehensive look at your total energy consumption, and a FREE Energy Checkup, which customers can make use of to score free, money-saving LEDs. We also cover the rebates PECO offers for energy equipment purchases, and a cool tool on PECO.com that helps you calculate yearly savings if you take the plunge and get an EV or hybrid.. Ask your local energy provider how they can help you save.
In our Replay today, we talk about the next stage in Tom Martino’s master bath and bar room reno. The Horror Story is about a lazy roofer who didn’t replace the step flashing and the ceiling drywall collapsed The beauty of residential real estate is that it isn’t one size fits all. Listen to these four different investors, all of whom got into residential real estate as an investment. One likes older properties with fix-up potential. Another likes condos in HOA-run communities. And only two of the four use management companies to manage their properties, collect the rent and deal with tenants. An investment in a residential property can be what you need it to be.
In our Replay today, a listener shares his plan for two projects: 1) rejuvenating a master bedroom, and 2) transforming a decaying hot tub room into a bar area. In our Featured segment, hardscaping and masonry pro, Mike McColgan, shares his thoughts on different types of materials for walkways and patios and the looks that can be achieved with each. He also describes the many steps he takes to create a paver walkway and entryway...clearly not a job for the casual DIYer.
Our Replay and Horror Story today are about a new roofing job that turned into a big, avoidable problem. A new roof gone bad, can be one of the biggest home improvement hassles a homeowner can face. Then, Cameron Jaggard from the PEW Charitable Trusts explains how PEW is involved in a huge and vital mission by military and civilian organizations, including the Gullah Geechee Nation (descendants of slaves), to rescue 1,000,000 acres of salt marsh from North Carolina to the east coast of northern Florida. Salt marsh has been proved to be an effective line of defense against rising seas...a protector of property, even jobs! If you have coastal property and/or concern about global warming, you’ll want to listen and pass this on.
In our Replay today, we talk with Trish, a Your Valuable Home listener planning to move from California to Pennsylvania. In her letter to Kevin, Trish reveals some information that unscrupulous contractors could prey upon. In our Horror Story, a homeowner is taken by a contractor demanding a large up-front payment. The Feature today is a fascinating discussion about the first solar-powered city in the U.S. It has its own healthcare and school systems, town center with shopping, restaurants, etc., a large lake and golf course, and other recreational facilities – and every home comes with broadband and EV charging equipment. It’s an inter-generational vision come true for Syd Kitson, the driving force behind Babcock Ranch.
Need to figure out inter-generational living arrangements, John is making progress with his solution. Listen to this enlightening Replay. New Pod City’s own Frank and Christina Sasso, encountered a Horror Story in their New Jersey rental property: their plumber got stumped over how to run a new vent pipe through the roof. Dealing with the pipe collar vent flashing left the plumber scratching his head. In our Featured segment this week, we talk with one of the founders of ECOhome.net about the treasure trove of GREEN building information and best practices to be accessed on the site – all for free. If you’re thinking GREEN for a new primary residence, vacation home or addition – or you just want to understand the subject better – this is a definite “must hear.”
In our Replay today, we critique the concept of online referral services. If you have ever used one, or are planning to, this is worth a listen. You would expect the stucco application and windows in a newly constructed home to be trouble-free. Not so in this Horror Story. In our Featured segment today, Chris Sherrington from Lawn Doctor covers the why and how of all the tools and processes Lawn Doctor pros employ to maintain healthy lawns and shrubs – and fight the critters that destroy them. There’s a science to it that is best left to the pros. You do the cutting. Lawn Doctor does the rest.
In our Replay today, Danny wraps up his solution to giving his beach house guests their own private bath. Our Horror Story comes from an architect who solved the puzzle of why so many front porches in a new development blew down. This will blow your mind! In our Featured segment, multiple award-winning interior designer, Donna Hoffman, returns for an encore interview on how to achieve a timeless look in home décor that will last for years, versus a trendy look that could be quickly outdated. Doing a major makeover? Should you rip up that butterscotch narrow-width hardwood? Not so fast, Donna says.
In our Replay, we wrap up a project where one bath becomes two This may be an answer for some of our listeners. In our Horror Story today, hear what happens when a contractor subs out a roofing job...nothing good. Today in our Featured segment, Meg Bondilli, a marketer of real estate developments, explains the concept of the 15-minute city. She also provides examples of cities in Europe and the U.S. where the concept has been successfully deployed. The 15-minute city relegates the automobile to a subordinate role. It’s where people can live, work and enjoy recreation and entertainment in a compact area that encourages active transportation (EG – walking, bicycling), and where spaces become “places” for human interaction.
In our Replay today, we address listener comments about two ways to prevent ice damming from forcing water under your shingles and into your home – ice shield and heat tape. Which do you think is more effective? The Horror Story? You guessed it...another roofing nightmare, because the roofer didn’t install the flashing and ice shield properly. In our Featured segment today, we engage Ray Nabi, one of the top mold experts in the U. S., in a comprehensive discussion about mold, its negative impact on the human body, how you can spot it, and protect against it. Mold can attack the lungs, exasperating asthma and other respiratory conditions. It also puts children at increased risk of developing asthma. Stachybotrys and Aspergillus are two particularly dangerous types of mold. Mold...you can’t prevent it, but you can protect yourself and your family.
In our Replay today, Kevin takes on what seems like an impossible project, and makes it happen. He converts one hallway bath into two full baths. In our Horror Story, another roofer delivers a botch job, including damaging the gutters and fascia. And in our Featured segment, Thomas Bowels, Radon Team Lead at the EPA, talks about the prevalence and danger of Radon in homes, and what you can do about it. Amazingly, most homes in the U.S. are subjected to this cancer-causing gas.
In today’s replay we do some detective work for a homeowner in Bradenton, Florida to isolate the cause of cracking stucco on the second floor of his house. Today’s Horror Story comes from Delaware contractor Brandon Nieves, who shares roofing horror stories so you never have one happen to you. In our Featured interview today, we learn all about CORETec® Luxury Vinyl Flooring. You can’t beat it for looks and wearability – and it saves time, steps and cost in installation. Kevin’s home improvement clients love it. More and more homeowners are opting for CORETec over tile, marble and wood when they expand kitchens, re-do baths, finish basements and more.
In our Replay today, we interview one of Kevin’s customers about his new ProVia windows. He offers a frank, glowing assessment of the windows and the installation. Our Horror Story is about a new roof that was doomed from start to finish...whenever that happens. In our College, you may have heard about Habitat for Humanity, but do you really know the extent of Habitat’s good works for people in need of a home to call their own. April is Home is the Key Month, when you should get to know what Habitat and It’s Restore organization are all about. Volunteer. Support. Feel great about it!
Lisa talks about how she’s working with Kevin’s VSP Home Remodeling to fashion her basement into living and entertaining space. Kevin fills us in on the don’ts of siding and siding contractors...all of them demonstrated in a single job. Good luck, homeowner! Looking for a home security system that makes sense for your situation and budget. There are enough of them out there to confuse the heck out of anyone. That’s why we sought out Rebecca Edwards to run down the handful of systems safewise.com has concluded make sense for most homeowners and landlords. This interview helped Ron narrow the choices to two moderately priced systems. It can help you, too.
In our Replay today, this is the second week in a row where we talk about an interesting and challenging bathroom redo. In our Horror Story, Kevin begins remodeling a basement only to find out that one of the walls is inferior. Ooops! Today in our Featured segment we talk with the head of South Carolina Realtors about the myriad reasons that make this southern jewel so desirable as a place to relocate to or own rental property. Among other positives, South Carolina has lots of Atlantic shoreline (read Myrtle Beach, Kiawaha, Seabrook and Hilton Head Islands, one of the lowest property tax rates in the country and the allure of historic Charleston. Oh what a foodie town! And then there’s the Spoleto Festival! Now wonder the state is booming with big industry and lots of jobs – and interesting things to do.
Joe shares the logistic challenges caused by only one functional bathroom in his house, while the others undergo renovations. Our Horror Story today is about a contractor who took the money and walked. Thinking of flexing you remote working privileges by migrating to another state or going to a less costly state to acquire rental property? Delaware, where the property taxes are some of the lowest in the nation and there is no sales tax, may be for you. We gain a lot of insight about Delaware from two top Berkshire Hathaway realtors in the top part of the state.
In our Replay today, Bob reports on the progress with his kitchen reno. Our Horror Story is about a contractor who built a porch over a deck, without submitting drawings and getting the required permit. Guess what? It leaks and is fraught with building code violations. If you’ve thought about going the airbnb route to generate an additional revenue stream, listen to our Featured segment today, as Antoinette explains what it takes to be a successful airbnb host. She makes it work with a great location between New York and Philadelphia, strict rules, and part of the house that has a separate entrance and space for one or two guests. If you own an investment property in an HOA-run community, check the HOA docs first to determine if an airbnb is acceptable.
In our Replay today, John shares his smart housing solution to taking his mother into his house after the death of his father. This may be a solution for some in our audience. Our Horror Story today deals with a board-and-batten siding botch job. Three months later the siding was falling down. There’s a childcare problem across the U. S., which is preventing lots of working moms from going back to work. Are grandparents a partial solution, as they were at the height of the pandemic? Listen in on this vital discussion with Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United and Dr. Lynette Fraga, CEO of Child Care Aware of America. Some possible solutions surfaced during this interview.
How would you begin to budget for the re-do of a kitchen? Simple. Catch today’s Replay, as Kevin and Tom, the homeowner, put that puzzle together. We’ve seen many siding jobs that have gone sideways…roofing jobs, too. The Horror Story today is about a double-header…the roofing /siding job that turned into a nightmare. In our Feature this week, Frank Sasso, the founder of the New Pod City Podcast Platform, marks the first year anniversary of the podcast version of Your Valuable Home by interviewing Kevin and Ron. Find out how a contractor and marketing communications executive teamed up on a show that was a mainstay on Philly radio for seven years before the duo flipped the switch to podcasting. Also, learn about the mission of the show and why Kevin and Ron do what they do.
In our Replay today, Charles talks to us about his basement redo after a flood. Our Horror Story is about a crazy ceiling fan installation. You won’t believe this! Have you ever considered a home sprinkler system? According to Tim Schuck, a fire marshal in Pennsylvania, a sprinkler system can be a life and home saver. Sprinkler systems are very efficient and reliable these days and they don’t cost a fortune to install. This is part two of our two-part series on being prepared for fire if it ever happens to you. Part 1 was in our Podcast that was distributed last week on 2/11/22. Listen to them both.
In our Replay today, Charles shares the story of how his basement flooded, and what he did to fix the problem. Our Horror Story today is about a fan installation that will make your head spin. Do you know the difference between a volunteer and a career fire company? Any questions about how best to prevent a fire from happening in your house? Do you know what to do to survive a residential fire? Today’s feature could literally be a lifesaver for you and loved ones.
Nothing tops the feeling you get when a home improvement project – especially a big one like a kitchen – comes out just the way you envisioned it. In our Replay today you can hear that great feeling in Susan’s voice as she talks about her completed kitchen. In our Horror Story, you’ll find out why contractor/designer relationships can sometimes get a little bumpy. In our Feature, we check in with Joe Bonacci, from Corcoran Real Estate, in New York on the state of the five-borough New York City Market. Did Covid put a dent in the New York market. Not much. Find out which areas are hot – and where the best values are.
Brandon Nieves from R&R Roofing and Remodeling in northern Delaware – and a regular Your Valuable Home listener – is with us to talk about roofing the right way. He’ll also share a home improvement Horror story, and how his company bailed a woman out of a project botched by another contractor. In our Feature this week, we interview Jessica Lautz, PhD, Vice President of Demographics and Behavioral Insights at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) about the residential real estate market in 2022. Will the seller’s market stay hot? Will home values continue to soar? Will interest rates help or hurt the housing market in 2022? Also, get the inside story of the NAR’s 10 top “hidden gem” markets for 2022.
Frank Sasso, the founder of the New Pod City Podcast Network is the wizard behind the recording, editing and mixing of all Your Valuable Home Podcasts. He opens this week’s podcast riffing on what makes YVH a unique and important weekly podcasting experience for anyone who owns residential real estate. In our Horror Story this week, you’ll scratch your head, as we did, about this crazy vinyl window installation. And then there’s our Feature. Fitting out an existing or new kitchen with major appliances can be a confusing array of brands, features, prices. That’s until you spend an invaluable half-hour with Conal Rony, the “appliance consultant” at Kieffer’s, a major retailer in southeastern Pennsylvania. In one interview, he helps our listeners put together the appliance puzzle. Don’t miss this.
In this week’s Replay, Bob the homeowner shares his vision for an expanded kitchen. Bob also provides today’s Horror Story about a new, leaking roof. His contractor simply walked away. Fairfax County grew into prosperity and prominence in northern Virginia largely because of the automobile. Now, in a sign of the times, the County is guiding development to achieve more user-friendly environments for pedestrians and bicyclists. Reston Town Center in Fairfax County is considered a model for community growth in 2022 and beyond. Join us for this fascinating discussion of what’s next for Fairfax and what it means for homeowners and businesses.
In the fifth episode of our new Listener Favorites Series, you’ll learn about Unison, the novel way to leverage your home’s equity, to make improvements, pay off medical bills…whatever. It’s true…no interest or principal payments for up to 30 years!
But first, in our Replay, we help the legendary performer, Kim Sledge plan a garage makeover to livable room. Kim and her sisters (Sister Sledge) gave the world "We Are Family" and a string of other hits. In the Horror Story, Kevin was working one of his jobs, when along came a contractor without a permit to solicit business from Kevin’s customer. Some people have no shame.
In the fourth episode of our new Listener Favorites Series, we speak with a Provia executive about the finer points of the company’s windows and doors and their incredible warranty.
But first, in our Replay, Gerri talks through the projects she has in mind for her new downsized house. If you’re planning interior work, you can get some ideas by listening to this interview. Think you're safe hiring a family member to do some simple home improvements. Gerri did and paid the price.
In the third episode of our new Listener Favorites Series, we learn about the first house in America designed to be both resilient and sustainable from the architect who designed it, Illya Azaraoff. This house, built to replace one destroyed in hurricane Sandy, can stand up to a Category 5 hurricane.
But first, in our Replay, Kevin walks us through the final steps in the installation of the expanded septic system that was required when he added an in-law suite to his home. Our Horror Story involves a newly constructed residence with all sorts of workmanship issues. Oh yes, it happens. Resilient and sustainable…these are two terms that are making their way into more and more discussions of how we build residential structures in America.
In the second episode of our new Listener Favorites Series, Kevin, John the Master Plumber, and electricians James and Joseph run down a list of projects that the average weekend DIYer should not take on because they’re either too complex, too dangerous or both.
But first, in our Replay, in our Replay, we talk with Jed about replacing 22 windows in his home – and about turning a dilapidated porch with an aging hot top into an inviting sitting area. The Horror Story is about the nightmare framing and wiring job done on Jed’s porch by a former owner.
In the first episode of our new Listener Favorites Series, much-awarded interior designer, Donna Hoffman, accepts our challenge to share her thoughts on how to bring the interiors of homes in six different architectural styles up to date.
But first, in our Replay, Angel, an interior designer, shares the back story of how she found a mid-century modern home for her mid-century modern Airstream. Both are rejuvenation projects in progress. In the Horror Story, Kevin explains how a young interior designer made a huge mistake by scheduling the installation of a hardwood floor before the demolition was done. Ouch!
In our replay today, Kevin demystifies roofing estimates for a homeowner. In our Horror Story, workers for a large builder try to cover up two different roof elevations on the same roof with a roof over a roof. A nightmare! In our Feature segment, we’ll explore the potential of deep-seated water with Merlin Yockstick from Blue Planet Science Group. Merlin claims that there’s plenty of fresh water in the U. S. and around the globe in relatively untapped networks of aquifers, below those that have historically been tapped. He also talks about the technology required to find that deep-seated water and cites 1,500 wells that have been drilled on several continents that prove his point.
In our Replay today, Josh talks about the finishing touches and the overall appeal of his re-built master bath. Our Horror Story is about the perils of dealing with the sales personnel of high-pressure, high-volume window installation companies. In our Featured segment, “ Mr. Sustainable,” Dante Di Pirro, a pro-environmental lawyer, addresses what the recently-passed Infrastructure Law means for sustainable forms of energy, the power grid, EVs and broadband. In this part 2 of our series on the new Law, there’s a lot of good news for communities across the country.
In our Replay today, Joshua shares his master bath project. It’s a complete makeover with a much-enlarged shower - something more and more homeowners are doing these days. In our Horror Story, a contractor tried to band aid a botched siding job. Did it work? Half-way through today’s podcast we talk with transportation expert and Your Valuable Home contributor, Gary Toth, about provisions in the Infrastructure Law that make cities and towns more user friendly for pedestrians and people on bicycles, and bring rail travel, roads and bridges up to date.
In our Replay, John shares the experience of re-modeling his master bath. Our Horror story today deals with a homeowner’s worst nightmare. When a scaffold broke a worker fell and neither he nor the GC had worker’s comp. The homeowner got sued. In our Feature segment today, we dig deep into the subject of standby and portable home generators with a top executive at Generac. A lot of homeowners in Texas were caught off-guard without generators during the 2021 power crisis. Don’t let it happen to you. Get a quick education on generators in the second half of today’s podcast.
In our Replay today, Rosemary shares the process of leaving a large house with a lot of property after 30-some years, and right-sizing to a one-bedroom rental cottage. Our Horror Story today is proof that celebrities, too, can be victimized by contractors who do shoddy work. Kim shares her story of the two-tub nightmare. In our fascinating Featured segment today, we discuss the why and how of a house in New Jersey that is entirely powered by hydrogen. Here the points of view of the engineer who created it, the woman who owns it and the real estate agent charged with marketing it.
If you’re planning an extensive makeover of your kitchen, you’ll want to hear about Stacey’s kitchen re-do. It includes the removal of walls to reveal her back yard view. Then in our Horror Story, the second installment of the epic botch job created by Linda’s plumber. In our Featured segment today, the notable landscape architect Carter VanDyke showcases spectacular projects that could be part of the landscape anywhere, USA. Carter offers suggestions on livening your outdoor environment, whether you’re living in Pennsylvania, Florida or southern California. If your property is in need of landscaping/hardscaping, you’ll want to hear this.
In our Replay today, Josh talks about the completion of his kitchen and hall bath. If you’ve been following the progress, you’ll want to hear the final outcome. Our Horror Story is about what could be the worst siding job in history. Listen and pick up pointers that can prevent this from happening to you. And in our Featured segment, architect Darren Vickery talks about his approach to designing homes for seaside locations.
Our Replay today deals with Linda’s ambitious makeover of her house, including new bedrooms, a new living room and an addition. Linda’s dream became a $400,000 nightmare that began with an $85,000 up-front payment to definitely the wrong contractor. In our Featured segment today, we learn the complexity of the water shortage in the Western states and how Arizona is meeting the challenges of a dwindling water supply. You’ll want to hear this eye-opening interview with the Director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources.
In our Replay today Joshua returns to talk about the transformation of his kitchen and bath…from old to new in only two weeks. Would you hand over $85,000 to a contractor at the beginning of a renovation. This woman did, and that was only the beginning of her Horror Story. She ultimately wasted about $400,000 on work that had to be totally re-done. In our Featured segment today, Angel returns with an up-date on her textbook Mid-century Modern home renovation. Homes in this architectural genre deserve to be preserved, and Angel is doing it right.
Our Replay today involves a young couple – Mark and Stacey – who finally found their first home in the desirable Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia. It’s not easy, but it is possible to find an affordable, livable home in this crazy seller’s market. In the Horror Story, a homeowner is left scratching their head about which was worse…the tornado that damaged the roof or the repair job that followed. In our Featured Segment today, you’ll learn about a company called FloLogic® with the technology to detect water leaks when they start, shut down your home’s water supply and alert you to the problem. If you want to avoid this kind of headache, you need to hear this.
In our Replay today, Joshua talks with Kevin about his vision for his kitchen and bath reno. We’ll have Josh back as the project progresses. Our Horror Story today is about a roofing job that’s as bad as it gets. It was definitely avoidable. A new roof is an expensive home improvement. That’s precisely why you can’t afford to take a leap of faith that the contractor will do a great job. In our Featured segment today, we’ll explain what should be included in a comprehensive roofing estimate, how to evaluate a roofing contractor, and how to make sure you get what you paid for. When it comes to inspecting a roofer’s work, a picture is worth a couple thousand words.
Our Replay this week deals with bringing the out-of-date look of a house up-to-date, without spending a fortune. New windows, trim, and doors did the trick. Should a new roof leak? In this Horror Story, that’s just want happened, because the roofer failed to replace some step flashing, and improperly installed the pipe collars. In addition to sharing his residential real estate “know how” in our Feature this week, Steve Olsher also gives us a peak into his next residential real estate project, LATATUD. If you’re a YVH listener, and thinking about investing in residential real estate, listen to this podcast at least twice.
In our Replay this week, Jed Strong talks about his new light and airy, enclosed porch, resurrected by Kevin’s VSP Home Remodeling from a wreck of a room. Jed also got a whole house of new windows. Our Horror Story deals with the case of the contractor who tried to lay the blame for the ripples in his bad siding job on the homeowner. Coming from Germany, where his German-born wife wanted to spend some time with her family, retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, Jeremy Thompson walks us through how he, his wife and two friends back home are building sustainable homes in Washington State. Very cool!
In our lead-off segment, the Replay, we offer advice to MJ, the host of the Podcast, "DearSis" about moving out of New Jersey to a neighboring state. Which state do you think offers the best value…PA, DE, VA, or NY? What could possibly be wrong when a couple-week-old roof begins leaking.? Listen to today’s Horror Story, and learn! In our featured segment, architect Illya Azaroff, who designed the first ever-resilient and sustainable house in America, is back. That house was built in Queens, New York, and can stand up to a Cat 5 hurricane. Today we discuss with Illya what takes to build homes capable of standing up to tornadoes, extreme heat, and earthquakes in those parts of the country where these natural disasters are prevalent.
Our Replay today is dedicated to helping Christina and Frank Sasso arrive at cost-effective moves they can make to renovate the property they recently purchased in upstate PA, and make the existing barn livable. The Horror Story is about a bad kitchen re-deo botched in the design phase. In our Featured segment today, if you’re stuck in frustration arbitration or a court case with the builder of your new home, now hear this: an assistant DA and the head of a consumer protection agency put forward for or five changes in arbitration and court actions that could level the playing field for homeowners against big builders. It’s about time someone took on this subject.
In our Replay today, Kevin walks us through the final steps in the installation of the expanded septic system that was required when he added an in-law suite to his home. Our Horror Story involves a newly constructed residence with all sorts of workmanship issues. Oh yes, it happens. Resilient and sustainable…these are two terms that are making their way into more and more discussions of how we build residential structures in America. In a fascinating interview, we learn about the first house in America designed to be both resilient and sustainable from the architect who designed it, Illya Azaraoff. This house, built to replace one destroyed in hurricane Sandy, can stand up to a Category 5 hurricane.
In our Replay today, we help the legendary performer, Kim Sledge plan a garage makeover to livable room. Kim and her sisters (Sister Sledge) gave the world "We Are Family" and a string of other hits. In the Horror Story, Kevin was working one of his jobs, when along came a contractor without a permit to solicit business from Kevin’s customer. Some people have no shame. In our Featured segment, you’ll learn about Unison, the novel way to leverage your home’s equity, to make improvements, pay off medical bills…whatever. It’s true…no interest or principal payments for up to 30 years!
In the Replay this week, we talk with Jed about replacing 22 windows in his home – and about turning a dilapidated porch with an aging hot top into an inviting sitting area. The Horror Story is about the nightmare framing and wiring job done on Jed’s porch by a former owner. And in our Featured segment, Kevin, John the Master Plumber, and electricians James and Joseph run down a list of projects that the average weekend DIYer should not take on because they’re either too complex, too dangerous or both.
In our Replay today, Kevin talks about his new, expensive septic system. It was a “must do,” because his recently completed in-law suite adds one more bedroom to the house. The Horror Story is about a clueless handyman who used black pipe for a bath tub value, causing rust stain on a brand new tub. In our Featured segment today, Scott Lowe from Provia fills us in on the latest addition to the Provia building products line, metal roofing made to look like shingles, including cedar shakes…a welcome up-to-date spin on the metal sheet roofing. The appearance, durability and warranty are amazing!
In our Replay today, Gerri talks through the projects she has in mind for her new downsized house. If you’re planning interior work, you can get some ideas by listening to this interview. Think you're safe hiring a family member to do some simple home improvements. Gerri did and paid the price. In our featured interview today, we speak with a Provia executive about the finer points of the company’s windows and doors and their incredible warranty. This is the first of two Provia interviews. Next week, we learn about Provia’s new, incredible metal shingles. If you have relevant projects planned for now or next spring, you should set aside time to hear these two interviews.
In our Replay today, fellow New Pod City podcaster, Rich Hopkins, from Rich and Tim Unleashed gets advice on up-dating his expanded cape cod. Some of the possibilities: transform an existing porch into a year-round room, remove the half wall between the kitchen and dining room, and – if the budget can take it – consider a kitchen re-do. Our Horror Story today involves more misleading references from online referral companies. Then interior designer Donna Hoffman tackles the tricky issue of how to keep a home design and construction team on the right course, while navigating egos, schedules and today’s building product shortages.
In our Your Valuable Home Replay, Angel is back again this week to share her plan for the rejuvenation of her 1940ish Mid-century Modern, all concrete home. It’s one of 1,000 such homes built on the suburban Philadelphia site of what was one of the most famous residences in American, the Stotesbury Mansion. Angel is determined to complete her home and Airstream projects by this Fall. Count on Your Valuable Home to track her progress. Our Horror Story is about a contractor fabricating experience on social media. It happens. In our Featured segment, architect John Wolstenholme accepts our challenge to propose how he would refresh and modernize the exteriors of homes in six different architectural styles, beginning with a Mid-century Modern in LA.
In our Replay, Angel, an interior designer, shares the back story of how she found a mid-century modern home for her mid-century modern Airstream. Both are rejuvenation projects in progress. In the Horror Story, Kevin explains how a young interior designer made a huge mistake by scheduling the installation of a hardwood floor before the demolition was done. Ouch!
Our Featured segment today is part one of a must-hear, two-part series. This week, much awarded interior designer, Donna Hoffman, accepts our challenge to share her thoughts on how to bring the interiors of homes in six different architectural styles up to date. In our podcast next week, we give the same challenge to an architect, who shares his thoughts on exterior updates.
In our replay today, you’ll learn about the importance of roof ventilation, and how to make sure it’s done right. Our Horror Story is about one of the worst siding jobs we’re ever discovered. Listen and learn how to spot poor siding installation. If your home has increased in value in this crazy seller’s market, should your homeowner’s insurance increase to keep pace. “No” says insurance broker Mike Cellucci, unless you’ve made improvements to your home since you last evaluated your policy. Homeowner's insurance is all about the replacement cost – not the overall value of a home. However, with the cost of building materials on the rise, the replacement cost of a house is a bit of a guessing game for an insurance company.
In our Replay today, Heather and Kevin discuss her options as she embarks on a kitchen redo: 1) remodel within the current footprint to save money, or knock down a wall and expand into the dining room space. (The existing kitchen in this 40 something- -year-old house is on the smallish side.) Listen and learn which plan Heather chose. Our Horror Story today is about a total bathroom botch job. Take notes so it never happens to you. In our Featured segment, we discuss some options for buyers who are frustrated by this seller’s market with broker Douglas Krautheim. One option may be to locate a lot in a far suburban or rural area, and build. You’ll probably avoid the bidding wars, but you’ll need patience and money. Another option is to seek out a teardown in a nice neighborhood and rebuild…a move that can also be challenging.
This Your Valuable Home begins with Charla sharing the vision for her new kitchen. The plan includes removing a load-bearing wall, and some other nice touches that could aid in your own kitchen planning. In our Horror Story today, Kevin recounts the story of how a contractor’s lies in his social media got through unchecked. In our Featured segment, drinking water expert, Steve Wiley, explains how people with well water can get shaken down for expensive remediation of bacteria when a prospective buyer orders a water analysis. Steve also discusses which water generally wins out for drinkability and safety….well water vs. municipal water.
Leading up to today’s featured interview, Bernie, the roofer, explains why there are shingle shortages of certain styles and colors in this lingering COVID environment. In the Horror Story, Bernie cites three or four problems caused by inept roofers, and how you can guard against them. And in our featured segment, Dan George, who was a listener favorite last week, is back to talk about Escape (tiny home) vacation rentals available in 12 states across the country( at $160 or so a night, a money maker for the unit owners), Escape’s Tampa Bay expanding development and the company’s partnership with Ikea. Exciting stuff that happening right here on Your Valuable Home.
Planning a new kitchen on a modest budget, listen to Eric and Jen’s kitchen ideas based on staying within the same footprint that they have now. In our Horror Story today, Matt tells his tale of window woe. A houseful of new windows and most of them leak. After a year of aggravation, the contractor finally admitted to faulty installation. In the featured segment of this podcast, we do a deep dive into Escape tiny homes with Dan George Dobrowolski, the company’s CEO. These ultrasmart homes on wheels pack a whole lot of luxury and convenience into 400 square feet…full size beds, appliances and a whole lot of style. Escape homes are delivered to your site by truck, and they’re practically “plug and play.” Looking for a very affordable, environmentally friendly second home or rental, look into Escape Homes.
The replay this week is about a special door installation in an old stone farmhouse and Kevin and Ron talk with Tom Hartill and George Matthews from Symmetry Financial Group about Debt Free Life Insurance.
In our Replay this week, Mark wraps up his twin projects: a new expanded kitchen, and a basement with a kitchen. Can a botched siding job lead to leaks? You better believe it. And in our Featured segment today, Professor Bill Hlubik from New Jersey’s Rutgers University explains how you can grow a vegetable garden in practically any space, practically anywhere. The health benefits are clear, and the experience is excellent post-Covid therapy.
In our Replay today, Kevin explains why your contractor may not be able to give you a solid estimate for a scheduled project. Supply chain issues for lumber and other building materials and products are causing headaches for contractors and homeowners. The Horror Story deals with a ridiculous window installation. If you’re house hunting, our Featured Interview with realtor, Jeff Lavine, will help you understand the causes (note the plural) of your frustrations – and possibly prevent you from making a buying blunder.
Our Replay today and our Horror Story are both about Mark and his bathroom re-do. Bathrooms can be difficult, and this one was. In our Featured interview today we speak with Alan Hubbell from DuPont Tyvek. Such a simple product, but it can keep you out of trouble. For example, Tyvek Wrap around a window cavity before the window is installed can provide you with many years of trouble-free installation. Why not insist on it?
In our Replay today, Lisa tells the story of her just-completed kitchen. The project included the relocation of her washing machine to the upstairs master bedroom. This outside-the-box solution facilitated expansion of the kitchen. Split HVAC systems require a lot of tubing to be inserted into wall cavities. In our Horror Story today an installer got creative and ran the tubing on the outside of the house, including over the roof. Unbelievable! Then in our Feature segment, singer, songwriter, author Dar Williams joins Gary Toth and Cynthia Nikitin from the Placemakers Guild for Part 2 of a fascinating discussion of why some towns flourish and others flounder. Dar shares some of the wonderous transformations she’s experienced in cities and towns across America. It’s all in her book, What I Found in a Thousand Towns: A Traveling Musician's Guide to Rebuilding America's Communities-One Coffee Shop, Dog Run, and Open-Mike Night at a Time.
In our Replay today, Mark’s 1,000 square-foot basement is almost totally made over. Imagine this: a built-in gas fireplace and a kitchen with cabinets that match those in his just renovated kitchen above. There’s a water monitor just in case. Egress was achieved with Bilco Doors. All things to consider, if you want to make your basement livable. In our Horror Story, we talk about a contractor who was called in to fix a leaky roof. He took 50 percent up front and disappeared for three weeks. Four months later, the job still wasn’t finished. Watch out for big upfront payments and contractors who don’t show. In our Feature segment, we’re joined by Gary Toth and Raj Mohabeer from The Placemakers Guild for part one in a two-podcast series about what it takes to make a city or town flourish. The Guild is a collection of urban planners and pros of related disciplines who know how to create places where life can happen. In part two, which posts on 5/13, Cynthia Nikitin, a colleague of Gary’s in The Placemakers Guild, joins the conversation along with singer, song writer, author, Dar Williams, who discusses some of the wonderous transformations she’s experienced in cities and towns across America. It’s all in her book What I Found in a Thousand Towns: A Traveling Musician's Guide to Rebuilding America's Communities-One Coffee Shop, Dog Run, and Open-Mike Night at a Time.
In our Replay today, Kevin explains to a homeowner how windows should be replaced to avoid causing damage to surrounding stucco. The Horror Story today comes from Ann, a residential landlord, who reports on an alarming development at one of the HOA-run communities where she has a rental property….a $500 annual assessment against investor owners of properties in the community. And in the College, we welcome back, Scott Abernathy, a valued Your Valuable Home contributor. Scott is president of his own property management company in Murfreesboro Tennessee, PMI Property Management, President of the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM), lecturer and author of multiple books, including his latest, KINGPIN LANDLORD: Unlocking the Secrets to Real Estate Investing. Scott’s shares his wisdom on HOA assessments to absentee landlords and other matters of importance to residential real estate investors. Scott believe, as we do, that residential real estate is the way to wealth for the wise. We’ll keep tabs on the HOA assessment issue.
In the Replay today, we discuss what it takes to make for a successful siding and window installation – and the difference it can make in the appearance of a home. In the Horror Story, Kevin reports on a basement remodel that included a kitchen and an electrical nightmare lurking behind the walls. Then, for our Featured interview, we address the surge in multigenerational living brought on by COVID and the need for financial support and/or care for aging family members. Donna Butts, Executive Director of the DC non-profit Generations United, reports on that organization’s recently released survey of multigenerational homes, and our own Kevin Kennedy and his family are applauded for their multigenerational lifestyle. Should you go multigenerational? Listen and learn.
In our Replay today, we talk about wrapping up Leslie’s remodel to benefit her aging mom. This complex job included a kitchen in the basement, a chair lift and the removal of a load-bearing wall. Our Horror Story deals with the DONT's of window installation in a stucco application. And in our Featured segment, two executives from GAF, the company that set the standard for asphalt shingles in 1933 serve up Roofing 101, and explain how homeowners from Texas to New England could have avoided water damage caused by ice damming.
This week's episode features big news about new technology that rids COVID and other pathogens from indoors spaces. But first, – in our Replay for the week – Mark talks about his extensive home remodel for anyone who loves their home and neighborhood but wants to update and refresh. Mark and his wife decided to totally gut their existing kitchen in favor of a new one, and – at the time – eliminate the wall that used to demarcate the dining room. For the basement, the couple is planning a wet bar and a fully functional kitchen. In our Horror Story today, a listener hired a contractor based on a website description and paid the price. Turns out the guy had only been in business six months and got 75 percent of the money long before the project was complete. And now for our Featured interview with Caroline Blazovsky, America’s Healthy Home Expert . Caroline returns to Your Valuable Home with huge news about new heated HEPA filtration technology that’s 99.999% effective at killing COVID–19 and other RNA viruses…99.98% effective against anthrax spores. It’s the Biodefense Indoor Air System™, the invention of Houston-based Integrated Viral Protection, and Caroline’s company has become a distributor. The technology, which was tested with actual pathogens, can be used in virtually any indoor environment…homes, restaurants, schools, supermarkets, planes, ships and more. It uses heat at 400 degrees Fahrenheit to kill pathogens. There are three freestanding units of various capacities available. There’s also a version that be retrofitted to an HVAC system. You must hear this interview.
This is the title of our featured interview for today, but it could also apply to our Replay – a kitchen expansion, complete with a “lift” to prevent Leslie’s aging mom from falling while going up and down the stairs. The bonus for this multi-generational family was the expansive back yard view they gained from the removal of a load-bearing wall to enlarge the kitchen. In our Horror Story today, we discuss water damage that resulted across many parts of the country this winter from ice damming. This is a common problem when ice shield is not installed properly under new shingles. We’re going to talk more about proper roofing practices , when we interview two top executives from GAF in our April 15 release. In our Featured interview with Nadia Evangelou, Senior Economist and Director of Forecasting for the National Association of Realtors®. Nadia advises that some trends sparked by COVID are here to stay – like teleworking – which enables two-earner families to move away from cities and drives the need for more office and living space. Nadia expects telework to continue, with a hybrid model developing where people commute to the office only a few days a week. Nadia predicts that inflation will not go beyond 2% this year and mortgage rates will stay relatively low…two factors should drive new home purchases. However, she explained new and existing home inventory is at a very low point, driving higher prices and a seller’s market. Nationally, millions of new homes need to be built. These factors, plus international problems with the supply chain also complicate the decision to stay in place and improve. The supply of lumber, windows, doors, appliances have all been affected, causing shortages and driving up prices.
In our Replay today, we talk with Bob about his move to his fiancé’s small house and an innovative way to remake existing space for two work-at-home people. One bay of the exiting garage became a bar. The 400-square-foot upstairs of the garage became Bob’s space. Maureen calls it the “doghouse.” If you’re leaning toward improving vs moving, you’ll want to hear this. In our Horror Story, you’ll learn what can happen to a house where the pan in the upstairs shower didn’t extend far enough up the wall. Call it the great shower pan debacle. And in our Featured segment, gain insights from Dr. Jessica Lautz, vice president of demographics and behavioral insights for the National Association of Realtors, about why people are leaving American cities for suburbs and small towns and moving from one state to another. The patterns are different vs a year or two ago, creating a seller’s market and inventory shortage. Dr. Lautz breaks down all the reasons why this is happening and why it may continue. If you’re thinking of moving or buying rental property, this interview provides invaluable perspective.