Posted on January 28th, 2008 by Florence Beaton
With the wide variety of factory-built homes now available (everything from tiny, modern structures to huge historic reproductions are available), it’s no wonder that second home owners across the country are considering a modular or other systems-built home. After all, when you live hours away from your second home site, it’s difficult to supervise construction and make sure things are getting done on schedule. With a pre-built home, there’s less room for things to get off schedule, and more security in knowing that you’re getting what you’ve paid for.
The New York Times has a great article on performing due diligence when buying a factory-built home. With the wide variety of styles, options, finishes, and costs associated, it’s a good idea to become as well-informed as possible.
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Posted on January 17th, 2008 by Florence Beaton

If you’re a fan of jigsaw puzzles, then the Puzzle Floor is for you. It’s available in 13 different wood finishes (you can mix and match, or use all one finish), and fits together just like a puzzle. The pieces are 5/8” solid northern hardwood, and come with a 25 year residential warranty. The individual pieces are 13” square at the corners, and you can even get them laser engraved with an image of your choice!
Via Lussorian
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Posted on January 10th, 2008 by Florence Beaton
We’ve just completed a Squidoo Lens that catalogs all of the interior design articles and books that we’ve covered in 2ndhome® Journal since the Spring 2005 issue. This Lens includes links to the articles (both in the digital Journal and on 2ndhome.net), as well as links to the books referenced. It’s a great jumping off point for planning your next decorating or remodeling project.
If you’re unfamiliar with Squidoo, this page should help explain everything.
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Posted on January 3rd, 2008 by Tim Menk
Don’t’ wait to “go green” in your primary residence, or in your vacation home. It’s not necessary to buy or build a new property to begin making important changes in your buying and property maintenance habits that ‘lean green’.
According to a recent article in Realty Times, “there are everyday things that can be done that will not only save you some money in the operating costs of running your home but also may make your home more attractive when you want to sell it”.
Among other ways to move toward a greener home, you can replace your old water wasting toilets with low flow units. When it comes time to replace your existing appliances, make sure to look carefully at the relative efficiency of the appliances you are shopping for. Remember that efficiency here doesn’t just refer to lower energy costs; it applies to water savings in clothes and dishwashers. Front loading washing machines save hundreds of gallons each year. This is an especially important factor if your home(s) are in drought-prone areas.
Another important issue in going green is your choice for interior and exterior paints and finishes. Make sure to look for products that are low in VOC’s (volatile organic compounds). VOC’s are toxic pollutants that can cause both skin and lung irritation.
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Posted on December 26th, 2007 by Florence Beaton