Find Your Home Value
Home Appraisal Tips & Advice
Home Renters Beware: The Foreclosure Crisis Affects You as WellAugust 11, 2008
Home foreclosures have created an overlooked victim: what happens when the home you rent goes into foreclosure? The vicious circle of declining home values and rising foreclosures.
July 11, 2008
Home values drop when foreclosures rise creating a vicious circle. Is there help in sight or a way to take advantage of a declining market? Home Selling Success: What You Need to Know
July 11, 2008
Yes, the home selling market has slowed in the past year; however, houses are still being purchased on a daily basis. What is the secret to successful home selling? Home Improvement Basics - Interview the Contractor
By Sheryl LandrumHome Worth Columnist
Home improvement projects add beauty and value to our homes. Whether you are considering a new kitchen, new windows, or redecorating, finding the right contractor is the basis of a successful and pleasant experience. How do you find the right contractor for your home improvement projects?
Depending on the size of your home improvement project, you may work with more than one contractor or need a general contractor to supervise the whole project. Referrals from friends or co-workers are always a good place to start; however, the yellow pages and TV and radio ads provide numerous opportunities to find a contractor as well. Another great source for finding a contractor for your home improvement projects is at your local building and material stores. Ask them if they can recommend any competent contractors.
You should avoid contractors who:
- Solicit door to door
- Accept only cash.
- Need you to get the necessary permits
- Do not list a local business phone number or address
- Ask for cash up front
- Is not licensed.
- Suggests you borrow money from a lender he or she knows
- Has material left over from his previous home improvement project
About the Author
Sheryl Landrum is a Senior Loan Officer with First Capital Mortgage of San Diego at the Prudential Realty Office in Bonsall, California.

