Building Permits and Zoning

• Q: What do zoning regulations do?
• Q: How can I find out how my property is zoned?
• Q: How do building codes work?
• Q: Should I always get a permit before making home improvements?

Contractors

• Q: Are there different types of contractors?
• Q: What guidelines should I use to find a contractor?
• Q: How do I avoid being ripped off by a less than reputable contractor?
• Q: What if the job is botched?
• Q: Are there ways to save money when using a contractor?

Financing Remodeling Projects

• Q: How can I finance work needed on a fixer-upper?
• Q: How does refinancing work?
• Q: What about a second mortgage?
• Q: Is a home equity line of credit similar to a second mortgage?
• Q: How does an unsecured loan work?
• Q: Does the federal government offer home improvement programs?
• Q: What about state and local governments?

Foreclosure

• Q: If faced with foreclosure, what are my options?
• Q: When do foreclosure proceedings begin?
• Q: Will I be able to buy again after losing a home to foreclosure?
• Q: How can I protect my home from creditors?

Insurance

• Q: What kind of home insurance should I have?
• Q: What is guaranteed replacement cost insurance?

Maintaining and Improving Your Property

• Q: Is it true you never really stop fixing up a home?
• Q: Is there anything I should pay special attention to?
• Q: What about the unseen problems like toxic gases?
• Q: How much, on average, can I expect to spend on maintenance?

Refinancing

• Q: When is the best time to refinance?
• Q: Can I refinance a home loan more than once?
• Q: Can an older homeowner who is cash poor but house rich use their home to tap into the equity?

Renovating and Adding Value

• Q: What are the main reasons why homeowners remodel?
• Q: What should I weigh before considering an addition to my home?
• Q: What should I consider once I decide to add on?
• Q: When should I tackle the job myself or call in the pros?
• Q: Are there ways to save money when adding new space to my home?
• Q: What kind of return can I expect from home improvements?
• Q: Is there such a thing as "over improving"?

Second Homes

• Q: Should I buy a vacation home?
• Q: What about a vacation home as an investment?

Taxing Matters

• Q: Can I deduct improvements made to my home?
• Q: Are victims whose homes are damaged by natural disasters granted any tax relief?
• Q: Are special tax breaks available for historic rehabilitation?
• Q: Can I contest my property taxes?

Zoning and Legal Issues

• Q: What is a variance?