Add value and summer fun to your home! Summer is just around the corner!  When the sun breaks through the fog in San Francisco, we all want to spend as much time as possible outdoors.  What better way to do so than with a deck party or barbeque? In addition to adding utility, both decks and home additions can make the interior of a home feel and look more expansive.  Details such as windows and French doors will open a house to additional light sources and gardens, improving not only your quality of life, but also the selling price of your home. … read more.

It’s Payback Time From Realtor Magazine / Remodeling Magazine Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Report” shows exterior and replacement projects bring the biggest return. View San Francisco-specific cost vs. value chart. ADAPTED FROM REMODELING MAGAZINE Home rehabbers who are considering a move in the not-too-distant future should focus mostly on exterior upgrades. That’s the message from REALTORS® who participated in Remodeling magazine’s 20th annual “Cost vs. Value Report”, done in cooperation with REALTOR® Magazine. REALTORS® in 65 markets were given construction… read more.

4 Heating Tips You Need to Know By Paul West Brrrr! Are you dreading that annual increase in your PG&E bill? For many Bay Area residents, energy consumption nearly doubles during the colder months. So this month, we’ve asked our local heating and furnace man, Paul West, to answer our questions on all things heat-related. * My house is always cold. What can I do to heat things up without paying a fortune? The first task on your winter to-do list should be to have your furnace inspected. Having… read more.

By Heinz Lehman Winter is just around the corner, and along with the inclement weather comes a host of potential home-related problems. From swollen doors to leaky roofs, the rainy season can become a major expense and a prime source of energy. By preparing ahead, however, you can prevent or alleviate most costly situations. Simple cost-effective steps early in the season can go a long way to ensuring a safe, dry home this winter. Prepare Your Roof Your first order of business is to locate a roofer or handyman to check the integrity of your roof. If your roof i… read more.

By Lili Weigert Special to The Chronicle Title insurance: A couple thousand dollars. Property taxes: A few thousand more. Having your own garage in San Francisco: Priceless. Well, maybe not priceless – and not easy either, considering the drawn-out, stressful design review and permit process – but a place to keep the car is worth plenty. Jennifer Kauffman of Zephyr Real Estate says a garage can tack $100,000 onto the price of a home. “Ever tried to get a parking space in the city?” is Jay Hemphill’s response to why garage additions are so popular in San Francisco. Hemphill and his construction crew are in the… read more.