Real estate professionals are grappling with a gray area in the industry: independent contractor status. With recent litigation shining a spotlight on this contested issue, tell us: Is independent contractor status a help or hindrance to real estate? Share your thoughts in our brief Reader Report survey below! // Create your own user feedback survey ...

Posted on Apr 22 2016 - 9:53am by Suzanne De Vita
Comments Off on There Goes the Neighborhood: Do You Trust the Folks Next Door?

Every now and then, we call on our neighbors for favors. That’s what they’re there for, right? These one-off requests rarely take a turn for The ‘Burbs—and we always pardon the elderly neighbor-turned-pet sitter for peeking through our mail. (I’m looking at you, Mrs. Schmidt.) Turns out, —and it’s for reasons rooted deeper than rumors on the Wisteria...

Posted on Apr 21 2016 - 1:53pm by Nick Caruso
Comments Off on NYC’s Met Museum Recreates the Iconic ‘Psycho’ House

Cornelia Parker, #psychobarn #metroof A photo posted by Becky Schear (@beckyschear) on Apr 18, 2016 at 12:06pm PDT
In the summer, the roof garden of The Metropolitan Museum of Art comes alive thanks to its many outdoor exhibits that offer 3-D renderings that often immerse its spectators. This year has proven no different with British artist Cornelia Parker's...

Posted on Apr 20 2016 - 10:08am by Zoe Eisenberg
Comments Off on For Sale: Game of Thrones-style Mini Kingdom in Oregon

Looking for a kingdom of your own? Head on over to Ashland, Ore., where a quirky 8,881 square-foot castle awaits. Overlooking a pristine 700 acres, this mini-realm—called the Shining Hand Ranch—takes “nature inspired” décor to a whole new level. Inside the home, whimsical woodland details will stop you—and members of House Forrester—in your tracks. Handcrafted...

Quality wood furniture can last a lifetime and is often a treasured heirloom, passed down through multiple generations. Still, even the highest quality wood is susceptible to scratches and abrasions if not properly cared for. When purchasing furniture, it’s always a good idea to ask for specific cleaning and care instructions. For furnishings already in your home,...

Posted on Apr 19 2016 - 11:08am by Paige Tepping
Comments Off on Commit to Living a Greener, More Sustainable Life this Earth Day

With more than 1 billion people participating in Earth Day activities each year, it’s hard to fathom what we all did on April 22 prior to 1970—the year Senator Gaylord Nelson put into motion a movement that continues to motivate people into action when it comes to caring for—and protecting—our environment. Whether you’re a preservationist, conservationist...

By Kara Masterson Investing in real estate is one of the most financially sound things you can do, but buying a new home might feel intimidating when it is your first time. It is understandable that you’d want to make the best decision possible. Here are six things to look for that can help with your decision. Efficient HVAC System Heating and cooling count for...

After making the decision to use vertical window blinds in their homes, many people are surprised to learn that the decisions don’t end there. There are plenty of different options to choose from and choosing the right ones for your home is imperative. Fortunately, asking yourself a few simple questions can help you determine what blinds will best meet your needs...

Virtual reality isn’t just for video games. Rapid advancements in virtual reality and augmented reality technology are poised to alter our daily life over the next several years. Everything from education, the workforce, healthcare and real estate are likely to be transformed in some way by the current revolution in hardware and computing that is making the rise...

Posted on Apr 15 2016 - 10:53am by Zoe Eisenberg
Comments Off on These Neighborhood Amenities Can Kill Your Property Value

In real estate, the phrase “cash is king” is oft overused. However, if you're struggling to sell a house in a bad 'hood, then you already know that in reality, location is king. Purchasing a home in a great area, or an area that is up-and-coming, can help maximize the value of your home investment. So what can tear your property value down faster than a...