Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

HILLSDALE, N.J. The Reserve at Arden Place, an active adult community in Hillsdale, has homes for sale at $895,000.

Every home at Arden Place is a single-family, detached home designed for active adults. Each home includes agreat room with a fireplace, kitchen with granite breakfast bar, master bedroom suite, two walk-in closets, platform soaking tub and lavish shower, formal living/den/office, laundry with utility sink and full-size, two-car on grade garage with one or two steps.

The 36 homes will be set on 14, landscaped acres, each with a backyard, paver patios and more.

The condominium fee covers all outdoor maintenance including lawn, shrub, landscaping and tree care, street and driveway cleaning, snow and ice removal from driveways, walkway, steps and stoop, along with gutter cleaning and roof maintenance.

CLICK HERE FOR THE ZILLOW LINK.

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Homes In Active Adult Hillsdale Community Hit Real Estate Market - Pascack Valley Daily Voice

Digital Trends

Soundbar & TV speaker buying guide: Everything you need to know Digital Trends Powered speakers, also called computer speakers or multimedia speakers, are self-powered speakers that usually require more wiring to connect and install to the TV. This means you will spend more time on the set up, but the payoff will be worth it ...

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Soundbar & TV speaker buying guide: Everything you need to know - Digital Trends

NuBryte, the company behind the world's firsthome control system at the light switch, has unveiled their new product line, NuBryte Smart Switches. Featuring built-in features unlike any on the market, these motion-based smart switches go on sale today for the first time ever.

NuBryte is the easiest way to bring homeowners the top smart home features; no programming or dedicated wiring needed. With an installation clocking in at under ten minutes, a NuBryte PRO can successfully enter the emerging mass market for home automation, outfitting multiple homes in a day.

The NuBryte Smart Switch collection extends top features, like motion-based lighting and security across the home and to unique switch configurations. The switches, which run on a ZigBee protocol, connect wirelessly with the touchscreen NuBryte Touchpoint for customizable whole home control. Mix and match up to four Smart Switches per switch box for a customized smart home solution, ideal for retrofits or custom-built homes:

NuBryte Smart Switches

*Additional features coming soon.

NuBryte Smart Switches retail from$79, and are available for installation by Professional Installers and Dealers via NuBryte partnerHome Controls.PROs: Use coupon code CEDIA17 to save 15% until 9/9/17.

FIRST LOOK at Smart Switches, and Experience the Fastest Way to Whole-Home Control at CEDIA

NuBryte is the easiest way to bring homeowners the top smart home features; no programming or dedicated wiring needed. With an installation clocking in at under ten minutes, a NuBryte PRO can successfully enter the emerging mass market for home automation, outfitting multiple homes in a day.

"We're pioneering technology that's a reliable and customizable solution for home automation professionals looking to expand. By providing an all-inclusive smart home solution, NuBryte gives PROs the competitive advantage," says NuBryte PresidentSteven Gutteridge.

Visit us at CEDIA 2017 inSan DiegoSeptember 7-9, Booth #5055 to see the NuBryte Smart Switches, live demos of NuBryte's 10-minute installation, and all-new integrations.

During CEDIA, the country's premier event for home automation professionals, NuBryte experts will be available onsite to perform live product installation demos at their booth. Attendees will get an up-close look at the easy installation and experience the seamless whole-home solution.

NuBryte will also unveil and accept applications for its new Referral Program andNuBryte PROplatform, which includes a combination of incentives and resources to enhance the dealer experience. Schedule a demo of the NuBryte system during CEDIA 2017here.

About NuBryte:

NuBryte turns the light switch into a high-performance smart home system. Its flagship all-in-one console, NuBryte Touchpoint, features Home Security, Smart Lighting, Intercom, Home Hub and more.The light switch is now the center of the smart home.Division of Silicon Valley's LUCIS Technologies.

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NuBryte Smart Switch Hits the Market: Motion-based Lighting, Security, Climate and More, All in the Light Switch. - Home Toys (press release)

Australia/New Zealand Wiring Rules Being Updated

WorkCover Queensland is advising stakeholders that transitioning from one edition of the Wiring Rules to the next can affect the compliance requirements for an electrical installation.

Standards Australia AS/NZS3000, known as the Australia/New Zealand Wiring Rules, is being updated, with the update expected to be published later this year. WorkCover Queensland is advising stakeholders that transitioning from one edition of the Wiring Rules to the next can affect the compliance requirements for an electrical installation.

To help them transition smoothly, the enforcement date for the new edition of the rules will be six months after the publication date of the standard -- such as in July 2018 if the new standard is published in December 2017, according to the agency, which has posted videos explaining key changes in the standard and will be hosting events for electrical workers and contractors during Electrical Safety Week, Sept. 4-8.

These following exceptions will allow the 2007 Wiring Rules to be applied beyond the enforcement date, according to the agency:

WorkCover Queensland will notify stakeholders about the enforcement commencement date and further transitional arrangements for the new Wiring Rules once they are finalized by Standards Australia.

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Australia/New Zealand Wiring Rules Being Updated -- Occupational ... - Occupational Health and Safety

SARATOGA COUNTY A popular solar company in the Hudson Valley has partnered with a geothermal firm to expand both types of energy consumption at homes in Saratoga County.

On Monday, only hours before a well-publicized eclipse captivated people in upstate New York, a partnership was announced between Hudson Solar and Dandelion Energy. Both companies have increased marketing operations in the Capital Region.

In a statement, it was reported that Dandelion has developed a new geothermal installation process that can convert homeowners away from oil or gas heat and offer them substantial savings.

A geothermal system uses a heat pump and underground pipes to move heat between the earth and your homeits the most efficient way to heat and cool your home, the company explains on its website (https://dandelionenergy.com).

Jeff Irish, the founder and president of Hudson Solar, said: Dandelion has lowered the cost of geothermal and set up financing so a homeowner switching to geothermal from oil or propane can save money from day one, just like with solar. When we combine our offerings, we enable customers to save money on their energy bills and completely eliminate their greenhouse gas emissions.

In a subsequent email, Irish explained that Hudson Solar originally installed geothermal systems after it started as a business nearly 15 years ago. But the company has focused exclusively on solar panels for the last eight, he added.

Irish said an average single-family home solar system is in the $8,000 to $15,000 range after federal and state incentives and tax credits.

He added that Dandelion and Hudson Solar are now working closely together on advertising, information sessions and events to promote geothermal and on-site and community solar projects.

As a former Town of Rhinebeck Zoning Board of Appeals member, Irish further indicated that he is sensitive to and experienced with zoning laws and issues.

Katie Ullmann, vice president of marketing for Dandelion, said in her own email that single-family homeowners who want a geothermal system installed could expect to pay $150 per month over 20 years with no upfront costs; or $20,000 upfront with no additional costs and minimal long-term maintenance.

Either way, when homeowners get our geothermal installation, they completely eliminate their oil, propane or natural gas bills, Ullmann said.

Dandelion has an office on Railroad Place in Saratoga Springs, Ullmann explained, and also has partnered with the firm Aztech Geothermal off Route 50 south of Ballston Spa.

Dandelion officially launched on July 6, so local marketing efforts are only just getting organized. An ESPN radio host regularly endorses Dandelion on-air and some outreach is taking place this summer at county and street fairs, Ullmann said.

According to Ryan Riper, director of planning and engineering in the Town of Wilton, at present there are 107 residential and seven commercial solar arrays in Wilton. Town officials are currently reviewing a comprehensive solar zoning policy.

Riper said he is not aware of any homeowners in Wilton who utilize geothermal heating and cooling, though one Route 50 business did install such a system.

Homeowners who desire to have solar panels installed must apply for a permit, Riper added, so that firefighters can expect to encounter that type of electrical wiring in the case of an emergency.

[Readers are encouraged to post respectful comments regarding the article below.]

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Firms Join Forces to Promote Solar, Geothermal Energy for Local Homes - Saratoga TODAY Newspaper

How do I determine my bathroom layout?Bathrooms can be tricky to layout, especially when theyre tight on space. If your family doesn't take many baths, don't feel the need to include a bathtub; you can use that extra space for a double vanity or large storage cabinet instead. On the other hand, some future buyers might want a tub, so be sure there's at least one in the house. Walk-in showers are also one of the more popular bathroom ideas, though they take up space, while bathtub and shower combos are the best of both worlds. If you have a large family, you might want to separate the toilet and shower from the sink so multiple people can get ready at once. Ultimately, what is practical for your family will probably also be practical for future buyers, so go with what works for you first and foremost. Also, be aware of the National Kitchen and Bath Association planning guidelines so that you and your contractor can plan a safe and functional bathroom layout that meets proper code compliance.How can I add more bathroom storage?Vanities are getting bigger and bigger every year, and for good reason bathroom storage is in constant demand. Because of this, think about ways that you can add more to your space. A lot of successful bathroom ideas feature an oversized or double vanity, while wall-mounted cabinets and medicine cabinets are helpful too. If space is at a minimum, recessed or built-in designs can help save precious elbow room while adding enough spots to stash your toiletries. Organization is key to space-saving bathrooms, so within any cabinets or shelving you add, incorporate drawer organizers, trays and bins to keep smaller accessories in check. As you look through bathroom pictures, try to keep an eye out for how each one incorporates storage into its design; youre better off with too much than not enough!What materials should I use in my bathroom design?Because the layout and storage options are pretty standard, picking interesting materials is key for helping any bathroom remodeling project stand out. Tile offers a wide variety of colors and styles, which makes it a popular flooring choice, while mosaic tiles are common in showers. The grout can be challenging to clean though, so stone or granite might be better shower alternatives. Just like in a kitchen, implementing a fun tile backsplash or countertop color can help liven up otherwise dull bathrooms. And last but not least, don't forget the hardware! Cabinet pulls, shower heads and faucets come in a variety of finishes, which allows you to add bits and pieces of personality into bathroom designs of all styles.How do I decorate my bathroom?No remodel is complete until the finishing touches have been added in this case, the bathroom decor. In this particular room, the term decor can be used rather loosely; even a toilet paper holder can add to the style of the space if chosen correctly. Pick fixtures with finishes that reflect the look you are trying to achieve, and match or coordinate soap dispensers, toothbrush holders and wastebaskets for a cohesive feel. If youre lucky enough to have extra counter or wall space, add some artwork or a decorative vase with fresh flowers. For those that arent looking to do a full renovation, smaller scale bathroom design ideas can be achieved by simply swapping out some of your old accessories and changing the color scheme with new linens or paint. Dont be afraid to combine similar yet different bathroom decorating ideas to create a look thats completely unique to your home.

For kids bathroom design, consider bright colors and unique patterns, but also keep in mind that children do outgrow trends pretty quickly, so steer clear of fads. Safety is of the utmost importance in a kids bathroom, so make sure you have things like tub mats, faucet covers and a cover clamp for your toilet (depending on age). Plenty of bathroom remodeling ideas accommodate both children and adults in the design, so go ahead and have a little fun with yours!

Originally posted here:
Bathroom Design Ideas, Remodels & Photos

For the majority of us, our dream kitchen is usually imagined as a glittering showplace, filled with granite islands stretching toward a faraway horizon and sparkling appliances that instantly make you a Michelin chef.

Truth is, unless youre rich enough to be able to buy your home complete with these dream kitchens and bathrooms, remodeling is the affordable option.

This is where the experts come into play and the more expert help you can get to help you imagine your new dream spaces, the better your options will be on choices and cost control.

Every kitchen or bathroom renovation is different and unique, said Barrett Rivera, owner of Riveras Flooring, Kitchens and More, based in Brooksville, Florida. Every customers needs are different and I customize every bathroom or kitchen according to their tastes.

Rivera, and his wife Shawnda, have built their business on quality work, good customer service and word of mouth recommendations. Their business showroom is located at 19239 Cortez Blvd. in Brooksville Florida, and spreads over 4,000 square feet displaying various styles of kitchens with high-end appliances, beautiful tile, quality accessories, marble including Carrera and Travertine as well as carpet and vinyl flooring.

We started off with a 2,000 sq. ft. showroom about 2 years ago, said Rivera. But because there are so many different styles, fixtures and price ranges, we recently expanded by another 2,000 sq. ft.

Riveras wife, Shawnda said, So many people want to visualize a kitchen in place complete with appliances and those extra special accessories like faucets, spice racks and coffee stations. They like to touch and feel the different textures on counters and back splashes, so we invested $100,000 in extra showroom space to display several styles of kitchens and bathrooms for customers to experience, she said.

The average cost of a bathroom or kitchen renovation, including demolition and removal of the old fixtures is difficult to determine. Generally, new kitchens and bathrooms dont come cheap. Does the remodel require moving walls, installing new floors, high-end appliances and fixtures? And, if you own an older home, theres no way to know what might be found when you open up that wall.

Cost depends on so many factors especially if the footprint of the old kitchen or bathroom has to be reconfigured. Theres also the question of whether permitting with the local authority is necessary. Finding that good contractor that will work with you in reducing costs across the board yet still providing quality work is gold.

Whether building or remodeling, theres a step-by-step process that occurs in sequence and an experienced contractor can make that happen smoothly.

Although every kitchen or bathroom remodel is unique, said Rivera, we still have to go through a process that includes planning, demolition, installation and restoration.

Figuring out the best layout, style and finish depends on the homeowners tastes, budget and circumstances. For example, how is the space used? Does someone spend a lot of time in the kitchen cooking, or does the homeowner host frequent dinner parties? Hiring a contractor like Rivera will take you through this process painlessly.

Once you know the process, the next step is to decide your style and materials.

This is the most exciting part for customers, said Rivera. Choosing the color, style, layout and materials they desire makes their kitchen or bathroom come to life.

When pricing a remodel, Rivera explained that he always plans for unforeseen expenses.

Demolition time is when plumbing and electrical issues crop up, he said. Thats when we know exactly what issues may arise and even when the space is cleared and ready to receive flooring and cabinets, there are many more issues that can emerge.

Walls may be out of square, floors and ceilings may not be level, said Rivera. Sometimes these issues are not known until were actually installing the cabinets.

Then theres the planning to be considered.

Trying to fit too much into the space available might bring disappointment, Rivera said. Try to be realistic about what is required in your space.

Ordering special cabinets and tile, fixtures can takes weeks to deliver and sometimes, the suppliers deliver the wrong materials.

All of this is built into the schedule, said Rivera. The average timeline for a new kitchen or bathroom is approximately 2 weeks once all the choices on style and materials are finalized and no last minute changes, said Rivera. But things can and do happen, and we have to be prepared so we can work according to schedule.

When considering a potential remodeling job, Rivera advises his customers to think about the added value to their home.

Updating a kitchen and bathroom will reap rewards years later at resale time, said Rivera. Any homeowner thinking about remodeling should think longterm. No crazy colors, and only pick stuff thats classy and timeless so that 10 years down the road, your home is attractive and sales worthy, he said.

We regularly visit kitchen and bathroom shows and conferences so we can keep abreast of current trends, added Shawnda.

Riveras Flooring, Kitchens and More is not just about remodeling kitchens and bathrooms. Riveras is an experienced contractor for any kind of project small or large and also a fully licensed to build up to three stories high. Riveras also designs and constructs outdoor fireplaces and kitchens, as well as outdoor brick pavers.

I recommend coming to our showroom to see our kitchens and bathrooms, said Shawnda. We can also bring samples to your home and provide a free in-home design consultation.

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Dreams turn into reality - Hernando Sun

Guido Mieth/Getty ImagesStyles come and go, but if your bathroom looks the same as it did in the 1980s, it might be time for an upgrade.

Remodeling your bathroom doesnt just make it look modern. Bathroom remodeling also can include more energy-efficient fixtures, so you use less water and electricity, and save money.

Before you decide to repaint, retile or replace anything in your bathroom, you want to first answer the question: How much does it cost to remodel a bathroom?

It really depends on what you plan to do and the size of the bathroom.

If youre looking for help to finance bathroom remodeling, check the personal loan rates at Bankrate.com.

The average cost to remodel a bathroom is just under $10,000. For the most part, people who decided to remodel their bathrooms spent from $5,910 to $13,835.

To be sure, you can pay less than the average if you only make a few simple changes to your bathroom or if you do the work yourself. Even so, if you want a complete makeover, you might spend considerably more.

Your bathroom remodeling depends on your goals. Some options will dramatically increase the cost. Others wont. Before you start to remodel, its a good idea to determine the scale of the project so that you can avoid going over budget.

If youd like to keep the cost of your bathroom remodeling on the low side or at least lower than the average cost, you have options. Instead of completely rearranging the bathroom, its less expensive to leave the sink, bathtub, shower and toilet where they are. Simply swap the older models for newer, updated versions.

If you dont have a lot to spend on countertops, you can get lower-end granite or another lower-priced material. You also can cut costs by purchasing lighting, flooring and cabinets off the shelf instead of installing custom fixtures.

If you have a bit more to spend, you can upgrade your remodeling in a few ways. One option is to get higher-quality, custom countertops, such as quartz or custom-cut granite.

Also, you may want to invest in higher-quality fixtures, such as faucets made of bronze or copper and solid wood, glazed cabinets.

Another big ticket job is moving the shower, tub, sink and/or toilet from one part of the room to another. That also boosts the price tag.

Remodeling a bathroom has several benefits for the homeowner, aside from making the room look better and improving its function. You can recoup around 60 percent of the cost of remodeling when you sell your home, as long as the changes you make are appealing.

Adding another sink to a master bathroom, improving the lighting and making the shower function better are a few examples of bathroom updates that pay off in the long run.

If youre considering a home-equity loan to pay for bathroom remodeling, check out the rates at Bankrate.com.

Originally posted here:
A lower-cost bathroom remodel - Bankrate.com

Laura Firszt More Content Now

Any home renovation is challenging, but a small bathroom remodel has got to be one of the greatest challenges of all. Combining form and function in a scanty space demands extra-careful planning. But dont worry; the gorgeous results will be worth it. And heres help six essential tips to make your bathroom remodel a success.

1. Work with what you have. Dont try to squeeze a full-sized home spa into a teeny amount of space. Remember, its not just a question of fitting in all the fixtures you need; youll also have to allow for clearance. These are suggested minimum bathroom sizes:Bathroom with tub 40 sq. ft. +Bathroom with shower 36 sq. ft. +Powder room toilet and sink only 15 sq. ft. (Most local building codes specify a minimum of 12.5 sq. ft.)

2. Plan your layout carefully. Whatever the square footage of a bathroom remodel, homeowners can cut costs with bathroom ideas that dont relocate the plumbing stack. And in your below-average-sized bath, the right layout will save you money and space. Steal a few extra inches by eliminating a linen cupboard and/or choosing scaled down fixtures. For instance, while a standard bath measures 60x32-inches, you might want to opt for a tub that is only 54x30-inches. Use the walls to their best advantage, by installing a compact floating sink and tankless toilet. Go vertical with storage, too, stacking cabinets and shelves up to the ceiling.

3. Choose the right doors. In a small bathroom remodel, clearance is uber important. For your shower, avoid a swing door; go for a simple curtain, sliding door, or half wall instead. By the same token, open shelving tends to be more practical than cupboards. Room for the bathroom door itself to swing into the room also takes up a lot of space. You might try the idea I used a few homes ago when faced with a minuscule powder room; I had the door hung so it opened outward rather than into the bath. This made the powder room less cramped and easier to clean, but you did have to be careful when opening the door.

4. Make laundry machines part of the plan. All too often, small bathroom makeovers offer a dual challenge finding room for the facilities and squeezing a washer and dryer into an already limited space. Stacked, a washer/dryer combo forms a column 24-27-inches wide by 27-inches deep by 70-75-inches tall, which can be hidden behind a space-saving pocket door or integrated into the cabinetry if you like. To save valuable space, consider a ventless condensation dryer or a combination unit. Install handy pullouts, like a shelf for folding or an ironing board.

5. Work out a realistic budget. Do your homework by researching prices before you commit to your small bathroom renovation. Unfortunately remodeling a bathroom of, say, 45 square feet wont cost half the price of 90, mostly because you will still need the same basic fixtures and supplies. There are some savings, though. Youll be buying smaller quantities of certain materials, such as tile. Whats more, you may be able to score a couple of bargains; a cut-price granite remnant could be just the right size to top your modestly sized vanity. Be sure to allow at least 10-15 percent above the bathroom remodel cost estimate to allow for cutting and overruns.

6. Schedule contractors carefully. If youre doing a full bathroom remodel, youll be working with several different types of home improvement professionals to get the job done plumbers, tilers, electricians, perhaps painters, and so on. There simply wont be enough space for several people to work in your undersized bathroom at the same time. Schedule their work in a logical order the tile contractor after the drywall professional, for example.

Laura Firszt writes for networx.com.

Excerpt from:
Networx: Small bathroom remodel: 6 essential tips - Arkansas News

Watertown added $1,020,264 in new construction this July, a figure slightly less than July 2016's total of $1,077,876. Since the beginning of 2017, the city has added $28,608,404 in new construction value.

July saw a slight uptick in new home construction with permits for four new houses issued to a variety of area builders. Permits were issued to Allan Builders for a $321,000 home at 1400 Kimberly Court, Loos Custom Homes for a $170,900 home at 617 Green Ridge Circle, White Oak Builders for a $160,000 home at 909 Casey Drive, and Ballzhi Construction Co. for a $140,000 home at 810 Casey Drive. Not including condos or duplexes, 12 new homes have been built in the city so far this year, a number on pace to match or exceed 2016's annual total of 19 homes.

Other permits in July were issued to: Jon Boettcher for a deck at 210 S. Eighth St.; Joshua Schuett for a shed at 1119 N. Fourth St.; Kristofer Kugath for a porch rebuild at 615 W. Main St.; Chris Tolliver for a pool deck at 809 Fieldstone Way, Justin Biefeldt for a shed at 124 West Haven Drive; Michael Yenser for a dance studio remodel at 809 Station St.; Peirick Builders for a new deck at 814 N. Church St.; Gary and Christine Kaiser for a rec room and bathroom at 321 Creekside Court.

Dale and Marianna Werner for a shed at 526 Grey Fox Run; Preferred Builders of Watertown for a sunroom addition at 1238 N. Water St.; Chris and Sandra Blum for a detached garage at 1314 River Drive; Rory and Stephanie Colvin for a new porch at 105 Lynn St.; Sears Home Improvement for a bath remodel at 918 Carol St.; Samuel and Danielle Wood for a deck at 602 Cobblestone Way; Al Gruenwald for a shed at 201 Oak Hill Court; Basement Repair Specialists for basement drain tile at 1014 Labaree St.; Kerzner Remodeling Inc. for a bathroom remodel at 520 Rockview Court; Mike Yenser for a wall and opening at 500 Milford St.

Tundraland Home Improvements for a bathroom remodel at 1220 Sand St.; Paul Davis Restoration for fire repair at 1430 Henry St.; Shoen Contractors for a deck at 715 Autumn Crest Drive; Dehnert and Co. for a four season room at 721 N. Water St.; Wendy Seeber for new walls at 423 N. Church St.; Emrath Construction for a pool deck at 126 N. Concord Ave.; Peirick Custom Construction for a bath remodel at 400 Lexington Court; Jerry Hackbarth for a landing roof at 111 N. Concord Ave.; Virginia DeBlant for a deck at 810 Casey Drive; Brandon Woinowski for a wall header at 1102 Doris St.; Robert Perri for a shed at 713 Belmont Drive; and Tim Gutzdorf for a railing replacement at 903 S. Ninth St.

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Building permits for July similar to last year - Watertown Daily Times