News
Sun Design Remodeling Specialists Ranks Highly in Remodeling Magazine
Remodeling Magazine, in its annual “Remodeling 550 Ranking,” has named Sun Design the nation’s 30th largest full-service residential remodeling company — and the second largest in Virginia — based on 2009 revenue.
The Remodeling 550 is a list of the nation’s largest residential renovation companies. It comprises four categories: full service, specialty and replacement, insurance restoration [...]
New Air Conditioner Regulations
This year the EPA banned the use of the R-22 refrigerant in the manufacturing of air conditioners. Because R-22 depletes the Earth’s ozone layer, EPA is gradually reducing amounts of that chemical that can be produced. But to preserve the useful life of R-22 equipment people have already purchased, EPA allows R-22 to be used [...]
Recovery Act Tax Credits for Home Energy Efficiency Improvements
Today while visiting Seaway Manufacturing Corporation—an energy efficient window manufacturing company in Erie, Pennsylvania—DOE Secretary Chu highlighted the tax credits available to American families as a result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Taxpayers are eligible for up to $1,500 in tax credits for a range of home energy efficiency improvements—such as adding insulation, [...]
Edison Academy Receives Tools as Part of Lowe’s National Toolbox for Education Program
Edison Academy students are receiving approximately $1,100 worth of Kobalt tools as part of the national Toolbox for Education program, a collaboration between Lowe’s and Kobalt Tools in partnership with SkillsUSA. The Toolbox for Education program is designed to help the next generation of trade professionals develop their skills. Edison [...]
Safety Tips to Avoid Appliance Fires
Most homes have a multitude of electrical appliances ranging from small kitchen items such as toasters and microwaves to major appliances like clothes dryers and dishwashers. While appliances make our lives much easier, they also pose significant risks - including fire - if not maintained properly.
Appliance fire safety is a matter of keeping your appliances [...]
Now is the time to become a building inspector
With the housing market on the brink of recovery, now is the perfect time to start your career as a building inspector. As foreclosed homes are snapped up for investment purposes the flip sale will be under closer scrutiny than ever. With damaged homes pouring into the market place investors will attempt to shortcut the [...]
Free Tax Help Available Nationwide
Nearly 12,000 free tax preparation sites will be open nationwide this year as the Internal Revenue Service continues to expand its partnerships with nonprofit and community organizations performing vital tax preparation services for low-income and elderly taxpayers.
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance VITA Program offers free tax help to people who earn less than $49,000. [...]
HUD Takes Action to Speed Resale of Foreclosed Properties to New Owners
WASHINGTON - In an effort to stabilize home values and improve conditions in communities where foreclosure activity is high, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced a temporary policy that will expand access to FHA mortgage insurance and allow for the quick resale of foreclosed properties. The announcement is part of the Obama administration commitment to [...]
St. Louis Home Builder Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud Charges
ST. LOUIS, MO—Edward Levinson pled guilty to bank fraud charges in connection with his construction business, resulting in more than $14 million in losses to banks and prospective home owners and subcontractors, Acting United States Attorney Michael W. Reap announced today.
“Mr. Levinson could have tried to save his 30-year company by going to bankruptcy court,” said [...]
How To Decorate Safely This Holiday Season
Washington, DC — In addition to food, family, and gifts, decorations are one of the reasons that many look forward to the holiday season. While candles, Christmas trees, and other decorations are part of the holiday spirit, they can pose fire and poisoning hazards, especially to curious children. Safe Kids USA and the United States [...]
