FRIDAY - SECOND SUMMER

Traditional Exterior by Port Chester Paint & Wall Coverings Facelifts Home Improvement

- To-Dos: Your October Home Checklist

- Homeownership Expenses You Might Not Anticipate

- Coldwell Banker Previews International Luxury Market Report Reveals Newcomers On List Of Hottest U.S. Cities For Luxury Home Sales

- City proposes new incentives for affordable housing

- Chinese investors remain an X Factor for the US housing market

- Income Growth Key for Housing

- 10 Simple Ways to Personalize Your Front Entry

Enjoy!

Homeownership Expenses You Might Not Anticipate - Purchasing a home is an exciting time, especially for first-time buyers. However, the financial commitment is sometimes overwhelming. Beyond the standard mortgage, taxes and insurance calculations, homeowners inevitably face unexpected fees, repairs and lifestyle adjustments when settling into their new homes.

Coldwell Banker Previews International Luxury Market Report Reveals Newcomers On List Of Hottest U.S. Cities For Luxury Home Sales - Overall, San Francisco led the nation with the highest number of sales in the $1 million+ category—up nearly 57% from this time last year. This high net-worth consumer survey reveals dramatic gender gaps, generational differences, lifestyle considerations, and in-demand amenities.

City proposes new incentives for affordable housing - Palo Alto marked a major milestone Wednesday when its planning commissioners unanimously approved a new vision for housing, one that includes incentives for affordable housing and encourages higher density near transit.

Chinese investors remain an X Factor for the US housing market - Richard K. Green, director of the University of Southern California Lusk Center for Real Estate, writes that for the first time, the Chinese surpassed Canadians as the top investors in American residential real estate. Investors from China invested $22 billion in the U.S. housing market during the 12-month period that ended in March. He notes that Chinese investors consider the U.S. market and even the coastal cities of California to be relatively inexpensive.

Income Growth Key for Housing - Income growth is a key factor that promotes household formation, generating rental and home-buying demand. A significant amount of pent-up housing demand exists, but for it to be unlocked additional gains in wages and other income sources must be realized. A positive change in 2013 is that younger households (those under age 35) realized income gains.

10 Simple Ways to Personalize Your Front Entry - Set a welcoming tone for your home with stylish updates to your doorway, pathway and porch. Some of my faves: