Ask Len

Len Moscowitz is the publisher of Home&Yard Handbook, a free magazine offering Local Solutions for Home Improvement. Len has a long time, well respected presence in the home improvement industry. He lives in Greece with his wife and three sons.

Ask Bren

Brenna Hartmann is the co-founder of Fixin’Chix Inc., a do-it-yourself enterprise that includes a comprehensive home improvement website; how-to workshops, seminars and publications; and a product line. Brenna is dedicated to empowering women "do-it herselfers" (DIHers) who have the passion and desire to improve their homes. Brenna authors the popular Fixie Chick home improvement column found in Home&Yard Handbook, and is the co-host of Home&Yard Radio with the Fixie Chick on ESPN (950AM). Brenna lives in Webster with her husband and two children.





DID YOU KNOW?

The average American household consumes over 100,000 gallons of water and generates over 22 tons of carbon dioxide each year. AND The United States is responsible for 21% of carbon dioxide emissions, yet we have less than 5% of the world’s population.

Keep up with the latest Eco-friendly home tips. Tune into Home&Yard Radio, Saturdays at 9am, Sports Radio 950 ESPN.

10 Fastest-Growing Real Estate Markets

By Money Staff, CNNMoney.com
Jun 9th, 2008
10 Homes for Sale in Hot Markets

Pity the residents of Stockton, Calif., whose homes are likely to lose more than half of their 2006 value. But if you happen to live in Texas -- or any of the other cities below -- congratulations: The housing tornado passed you by.

1. McAllen, Texas

12-month forecast: 4%
Median home price: $109,000
One year price change: 2.1%
Five year price change: 23.3%
Change in foreclosure rate: 23%

2. Rochester, N.Y.

12-month forecast: 2.7%
Median home price: $121,000
One year price change: 3.4%
Five year price change: 20.1%
Change in foreclosure rate: 5%

3. Birmingham, Alabama

12-month forecast: 2.7%
Median home price: $156,000
One year price change: 2.9%
Five year price change: 29.4%
Change in foreclosure rate: 20%

4. Syracuse, N.Y.

12-month forecast: 2.6%
Median home price: $126,000
One year price change: 0.8%
Five year price change: 29.5%
Change in foreclosure rate: 27%

5. Buffalo/Niagara Falls, N.Y.

12-month forecast: 2.4%
Median home price: $105,000
One year price change: 1.6%
Five year price change: 24.5%
Change in foreclosure rate: 14%

6. New Orleans, La.

12-month forecast: 2.2%
Median home price: $158,000
One year price change: 1%
Five year price change: 43.7%
Change in foreclosure rate: 49%

7. Scranton, P.A.

12-month forecast: 2.2%
Median home price: $128,000
One year price change: 7.2%
Five year price change: 41.1%
Change in foreclosure rate: 8%

8. Grand Rapids, Mich.

12-month forecast: 1.9%
Median home price: $124,000
One year price change: -3%
Five year price change: 8.3%
Change in foreclosure rate: 37%

9. Baton Rouge, La.

12-month forecast: 1.9%
Median home price: $170,000
One year price change: 5.7%
Five year price change: 38.3%
Change in foreclosure rate: 14%

10. El Paso, Texas

12-month forecast: 1.8%
Median home price: $134,000
One year price change: 6.9%
Five year price change: 51.9%
Change in foreclosure rate: 32%

With Heating & A/C, Maintenance Costs Less Than Repair

Keeping your heating & cooling systems in good working order means your utility bills will be lower, your home will be more comfortable, and you'll be calling for repairs less often.  It can also mean the difference between a small fix today and a BIG problem tomorrow!
Tune in to HOME&YARD RADIO Saturday at 10am 950 ESPN and learn more!  Click here to learn how you can Green Your Weekend by giving your furnace a little TLC