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Your Valuable HomeIt’s Never too Soon to Learn About Home Care.In our Best Practices segment today we discover how rejuvenating versus replacing kitchen cabinets can save thousands of dollars in kitchen renovation cost. Cabinet rejuvenation doesn’t mean simply painting the cabinets. It’s a process that includes new doors, drawers and hardware and spray painting the cabinet bases. Our Horror Story today is about an Apple Pay shakedown that involved Ron. He got an email stating that his Apple account had been charged $139 at 3:00 a.m. that morning. That alone was odd. There was a number to call for more information. After calling the number and asking a few questions...2025-05-0352 minYour Valuable HomeMultiple-Award-Winning Interior Designer, Donna Hoffman, Briefs Us on a New Design Trend and How You Can Make Cost-efficient UpdatesIn our best practices segment today, Ron and Mike from one of the two companies that manage Ron’s rentals discuss the value of hiring a management company to procure tenants, collect rent, supervise repairs and do all of the other things that many landlords simply don’t have the time to do. If you have rentals that you self-manage, this interview could change your mind. In our feature today Donna Hoffman briefs us on the move away from off-whites and greys and the introduction of darker colors. The good news: you inexpensively stay on trend with simple, darker accent pieces.2025-04-2644 minYour Valuable HomeProVia® Doors Make for Super Curb Appeal. Plus, Part 2 of Our Offshore Rental Series: Costa RicaOur guest for our Best Practices segment today is Joelle Longo, newly promoted Product Manager for ProVia entry and storm doors. We talk about the curb appeal of ProVia entry doors and the painstaking process of how they are manufactured. We also get into the compatible design of ProVia storm doors and how they can be matched with any ProVia entry door. In our Horror Story, Ron draws attention to the page after page of cyber and other scams identified in the latest issue of the AARP Bulletin. AARP members can still access this issue of the online Bulletin. In our Feature...2025-04-1142 minYour Valuable HomeNavigating First-Time Home Building, Electrical Safety Woes, and Wildfire Preparedness Tips from a FirefighterIn our first segment today, Ron speaks with architect Matt Piotrowski about the viability of first-time buyers stymied by a tight real estate market building versus buying. We get into a couple of scenarios where it might be viable to build, especially if the decision includes a plan for expansion. The Horror Story today involves an electrician’s mistake that could have resulted in disaster, had it not been for the diligence of the homeowner. There’s sound advice at the end of this segment. In our Feature, we discuss with a firefight what would happen if just some of the many publ...2025-02-141h 05Your Valuable Home2024 LISTENER FAVORITE #2 - Here’s Info on Likely Buyers from the National Association of Realtors.Here’s a big THANK YOU to RawVoice, the parent company of Blubrry.com for naming me, Ron Melk, podcaster of the month for January 2025. The timing couldn’t be better, because the third week of January we’ll introduce a brand refresh for the Your Valuable Home podcast, including a new segment featuring Caroline Blazovsky, America’s Healthy Home Expert. Subscribe, and you won’t miss an episode.--The Your Valuable Home Podcast will close out 2024 with a huge thank to everyone in our audience for listening this year. Starting with last week’s release – an...2025-01-0347 minYour Valuable Home2024 Real Estate Roundup Part 8THIS IS WORTH REPEATING: IF YOU’RE HAVING AN ISSUE FINDINGYOUR VALUABLE HOME ON APPLE PODCASTS,All of our releases for September and October 2024 – as well as new releases – are on Apple Podcasts. Here’s how to access them:If you have been following Your Valuable Home, un-follow it (remove theshow from your library), search for it and follow it again by going to this linkto subscribe - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-valuable-home/id1561159361If you...2024-11-0836 minYour Valuable Home2024 Real Estate Roundup Part 4To all Your Valuable Home, subscribers and other listeners, our sincere apologies if you’ve been having trouble accessing Your Valuable Home. In recent weeks there was a glitch with Apple Podcasts, which we believe we have resolved. If your preference is Apple podcasts, you can find us there once again. And again, we apologize for the inconvenience.-----In the replay today, we get Michele's take on her recently completed total ProVia exterior makeover.In the horror story, Ron got a package dropped on his front step. It was a n...2024-10-1142 minYour Valuable Home2024 Real Estate Roundup Part IIIIn the Replay today, Kevin and Ron raise awareness of roofing companies promoting new roofs and citing hail and wind damage. They’ll even represent you in talks with your insurance carrier. Think twice before you fall for this.If you have a home with multiple acres of property in a rural area, be on your guard. A large company may own the mineral and oil rights to your property and can legally extract what lies beneath your property. But for a call from an alert neighbor, Frank, our engineer and editor, could have lo...2024-10-0539 minYour Valuable Home2024 Real Estate Roundup Part IIIn the Replay today, Kevin and Ron reveal the scams, lies, and shaky salespitches some contractors employ to get jobs.In the Horror Story, we cite a bad roofing job that led to a bad siding job.The Real Estate Roundup continues with Loretta Starck of the REMAXElite Bograd Team, with offices in Philadelphia, Margate, an exclusive townarea on the Jersey Shore, and Miami. Loretta briefs us on the performanceof these three very different markets in the...2024-09-2732 minYour Valuable HomeSquatters, Insurance, and the Housing Crisis: Uncovering the Real Issues with Ron MelkSPECIAL EPISODE!!!Host Karin Murphy puts her Co-Host "Jeopardy" Jack Cutrone from LI Pariot Radio interview Ron Melk (Your Valauble Home co-host) about the hard-hitting issues facing Americans today—from the squatter crisis and skyrocketing insurance costs to the fight for affordable housing. 2024-08-3046 minYour Valuable HomeNY State Senator Mario Mattera fights a planned ban on natural gas usage in new residences.After listening to today’s replay, it would be a good idea to determine if your house is properly insulated.In the Horror Story, Ron and his friend, Master Plumber, John, set out to change the cartridge in the shower of Ron’s rental condo. They were surprised to discover that the only shut-off valve for the condo - and all other condos in the building - was in a locked room in the building’s basement. Multiple phone calls later they got the combination to the lock and completed the job. A simple plumbi...2024-08-2340 minYour Valuable HomeHow do you approach rental property selection, improvements, maintenance?Today’s Replay is the first of two that offer sound advice on choosing acontractor for any type of home improvement project. It’s time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. There’s a pretty widespread scam going on. It involves roofers who knock on your door, claiming that you have hail damage on your roof, and they can re-do your roof at your insurance company’s expense. Sounds tempting, but beware. In our feature today, Kevin and Ron share their points of view on selecting, improving and mainta...2024-06-2040 minYour Valuable HomePalm Springs Never Fails to FascinateIn our Replay today, Ron takes us on a 15-minute journey through Palm Springs. This oasis in the California desert east of LA was featured in our Popular 2023 YouTube series, The Coolest Neighborhoods in America.Listen today, as Ron shares what he learned about Palm Springs during a recent trip to the epicenter of Mid-century Modern architecture and so many other fascinating things. Ron’s trip inspired two additional Feature segments. One was on Pacaso fractional home ownership (11/10/23). Theother was with George Smart, founder of U.S Modernist (12/22/23). ...2024-05-3058 minYour Valuable HomeThe Frank Lloyd Wright Martin House in Buffalo is 18,000 Square Feet of WOW!In our Replay today, Ron gives us the inside story of his recent visit to thearchitect Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, the Martin House. FLWdesigned the house for a Buffalo, New York entrepreneur back when thatcity was one of the wealthiest in America. Among many fascinatingfeatures, the Martins became the first American family to a have a homewith an open floor plan. In our Horror Story, trouble often happens because everyone thinks they’re a contractor. 2024-05-2445 minYour Valuable HomeProfessor Kennedy teaches on the importance of ventilation.In the Replay today, Ron questions Kevin about the appeal of ProVia®products including windows, doors, and siding, among his customers. Threefactors stand out: the ProVia warranty, appearance, and durability. OurHorror Story today deals with the replacement of a window that failed tomeet HOA standards. As you can imagine, this caused much needlessaggravation. The subject of our Feature today is ventilation and Professor Kennedy schools us on the importance of it.2024-04-0641 minYour Valuable HomeAmazing - the Number of Dead Trees We Photographed Along Busy Roads in PA and NJIn the Replay today, Kevin and Ron raise awareness of roofing companiespromoting new roofs and citing hail and wind damage. They’ll evenrepresent you in talks with your insurance carrier. Think twice before youfall for this. In today’s Bad Guy Bulletin, we tip you off to scams you need toavoid. In the Feature, as a follow-up to an interview we did on hazardsposed by dead ash and other trees in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, thisweek’s feature is about a drive...2024-02-2243 minYour Valuable HomeHow to Save a Bundle on an Outstanding Kitchen RefreshIn the Replay today, Kevin and Ron reveal the scams, lies, and shaky salespitches some contractors employ to get jobs. In the Horror Story, we cite abad roofing job that led to a bad siding job. Today’s feature was promptedby Ron’s visit to his godson’s parent’s home, where he experienced theexcellence of their refreshed kitchen. There was no need to change thebasic footprint of the cabinets, which were in great shape. S...2024-02-0136 minYour Valuable HomeConcerned About the Safety and Security of Your Family and Home? Don’t Miss a Second of the Feature in this EpisodeIn the Replay today, Kevin and Ron explain how a responsiblehome improvement contractor can make a positive impact on afamily. It’s the third week of the month...time for the Bad GuyBulletin, with contributions from Mike Bannon from Bucks CountyConsumer Protection, Marc Furber from the Bucks DA’s Officeand Ron, whose mortgage holder was hacked by the bad guys.In the Feature today, Rebecca Edwards points out top family and home safety and secu...2024-01-2046 minYour Valuable HomeIt’s Getting Tougher for First-time Home Buyers to Locate and Buy a House. Find out why.In the Replay today, we revisit Mike for the final time. The post-firereconstruction that became a nightmare for him and his wife is redone farbeyond his expectations.The Horror Story involves the refrigerator in Kevin’s home, and it has a happy ending. After several attempts by repair people to fix a nagging problem, Kevin’s wife contacted the head of General Electric Appliances, and he made good things happen. Congratulations GE, for delivering outstanding customer service.In this week’s Feature, Jessica Lautz...2023-12-0142 minYour Valuable HomeThe inspirational story of Eight Days of Hope and how this faith-based organization offers hope and help to victims of natural and human disasters.In our Replay today, Kevin provides sound advice on how to vet and hire a house painter.In today’s Horror Story, the choice of the wrong painterresults in a huge mess.Our Featured segment today focuses on Eight Days of Hope, a faith-based organization of volunteers who have helped victims of natural disasters in Florida, Hawaii, and elsewhere rebuild.Most recently, Eight Days of Hope expanded its mission to help young female victims of one of the most horrendous human disasters of our ti...2023-11-2346 minYour Valuable HomeThe inspirational story of Eight Days of Hope and how this faith-based organization offers hope and help to victims of natural and human disasters.In our Replay today, Kevin provides sound advice on how to vet and hire a house painter.In today’s Horror Story, the choice of the wrong painter results in a huge mess. Our Featured segment today focuses on Eight Days of Hope, a faith-based organization of volunteers who have helped victims of natural disasters in Florida, Hawaii, and elsewhere rebuild. Most recently, Eight Days of Hope expanded its mission to help young female victims of one of the most horrendous human disasters of our time — human trafficking. This is an i...2023-11-2346 minYour Valuable HomeToday, a Frank Discussion with Renowned Architect, Illya Azaroff About Living Off the GridAfter listening to today’s replay, it would be a good idea todetermine if your house is properly insulated.It’s the third week of the month – time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. In a tip sent in by Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s office, a contractor who shook down a homeowner for thousands is still on the loose. In anotheraccount, another shady contractor who demanded up-front moneyfor multiple jobs he never completed, was taken out of circulation.In our...2023-11-1721 minYour Valuable HomeYour Luxe Vacation Home Could be in the Fabulous PACASO CollectionIn our Replay today, Jon Lapp, our sponsor Provia’s Product Manager forSiding briefs us on the newest addition to the ProVia siding line – HarborMill shingle and shake siding. Jon talks about how ProVia uses lasertechnology to mimic the look and feel of real wood, the architectural stylesmost suited to Harbor Mill, the myriad available colors, ease of installation,etc., etc. If you’re thinking about re-siding your home, you need to listen tothis.In the Horror Story...2023-11-0936 minYour Valuable HomeWe Wrap Up the 2023 Real Estate RoundUp in Newport Beach and San Diego, CAIn the Replay, Mike talks about the progress made on his project, the entirehouse reno. In the horror story, Mike discusses the added issues from the previous contractor, you won’t believe what he did. Working our way down the California coast, we get a briefing from Heather Chadwell on the stable real estate market of Newport Beach, where the prices of many of the homes are in the stratosphere. Then on to the last stop on the Your Valuable Home Real Estate RoundUp 2023, San Diego, where real estate pro, Gabe Mendez, reports on an ongoing se...2023-11-0346 minYour Valuable HomeWe Wrap Up the 2023 Real Estate RoundUp in Newport Beach and San Diego, CAIn the Replay, Mike talks about the progress made on his project, the entirehouse reno.In the horror story, Mike discusses the added issues from the previous contractor, you won’t believe what he did… Working our way down the California coast, we get a briefing from Heather Chadwell on the stable real estate market of Newport Beach, where the prices of many of the homes are in the stratosphere. Then on to the last stop on the Your Valuable Home Real Estate RoundUp 2023, San Diego, wher...2023-11-0346 minYour Valuable HomeThis Week We We’re Briefed on the Dallas and LA Residential Real Estate MarketsIn this weeks replay, Kevin and Ron talk about the rising costs of permits. In the horror story is Not the Bad Guy Bulletin, it is the Bad appliance Bulletin! In the feature segment, the Real estate round up in heading to California, Suzi Farajiani, expects a tight seller's market to continue for some time. The good news here is that there are also towns in the LA area where homes are affordable by middle-income house hunters.2023-10-2838 minYour Valuable HomeIn the Real Estate RoundUp This Week the Focus Is the Tennessee Rental Market, with Insight Helpful to People Looking for a New Home, As WellIn the Replay of the Week, PA realtor, Jeff Parkins, has terrific advice about hunting for a new home in a seller’s market made more complex by rising interest rates and home prices. Relying on Jeff’s skills and tenacity, legendary performer, Kim Sledge beat the dynamics of the current real estate market in the Philadelphia area and found a great place to downsize. The Bad Guy Bulletin is about a ray of hope in the disheartening world of customer service, where the cost is often passed on to the customer. Our sponsor, ProVia, gets an “A” for human cont...2023-10-2157 minYour Valuable HomeAnother Week of the Real Estate Roundup with briefings on Florida and New York.In the Replay today, ProVia’s Alyssa Hostetler takes us through the ProVia web-based Envision system that helps homeowner visualize howcombinations of ProVia products for the exterior of the home work together on homes of different architectural styles and on their home,. It’s amarvelous way to visualize the possibilities. And in the Horror Story, Kevin verbally spars with a contractor in the process of installing windows the wrong way. In the Feature today, we keep on working our way around the country with stops in St. Petersburg, FL and New York, New York...2023-10-1443 minYour Valuable HomeIn Week Three of Our Real Estate Round Up, We Check in On Two Hot Markets in North Carolina: Wilmington and Research TriangleIn the Replay today, Scott, from Our Sponsor ProVia, is in the studio to brief our listeners on ProVia’s superb metal roofing. It’s a one-and-done roofing system available in slate, shake and barrel tile styles, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. In today’s Horror Story, we learn why a contractor had to be convinced that removing the nailing flange from a new window was a big mistake. Wow! In this the third episode featuring our 2023 cross country Real Estate Roundup, we learn about hot markets in North Carolina...Wilmington on the coast, just above Myrtle B...2023-10-121h 01Your Valuable HomeIn Week Three of Our Real Estate Round Up, We Check in On Two Hot Markets in North Carolina: Wilmington and Research TriangleIn the Replay today, Scott, from Our Sponsor ProVia, is in the studio to brief our listeners on ProVia’s superb metal roofing. It’s a one-and-done roofing system available in slate, shake and barrel tile styles, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. In today’s Horror Story, we learn why a contractor had to be convinced that removing the nailing flange from a new window was a big mistake. Wow! In this the third episode featuring our 2023 cross country Real Estate Roundup, we learn about hot markets in North Carolina...Wilmington on the coast, just above Myrtle B...2023-10-111h 01Your Valuable HomeIn Week Three of Our Real Estate Round Up, We Check in On Two Hot Markets in North Carolina: Wilmington and Research TriangleIn the Replay today, Scott, from Our Sponsor ProVia, is in the studio to brief our listeners on ProVia’s superb metal roofing. It’s a one-and-done roofing system available in slate, shake and barrel tile styles, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty. In today’s Horror Story, we learn why a contractor had to be convinced that removing the nailing flange from a new window was a big mistake. Wow! In this the third episode featuring our 2023 cross country Real Estate Roundup, we learn about hot markets in North Carolina...Wilmington on the coast, just above Myrtle B...2023-10-061h 01Your Valuable HomeIt’s Week Two of the Real Estate RoundUp 2023, and We’re Briefed on Maryland Real Estate on Both Sides of the Chesapeake BayIn the Replay today, we interview legendary singer, songwriter, Kim Sledge,and learn that even celebrities have to navigate a tight seller’s market tofind the right place to downsize. The continuing Horror Story s about theexperience Kevin and company are having to re-do the work a contractorwannabe attempted in a reconstruction after a house fire. Virtuallyeverything that was done has to be re-done. In the Feature, we get theword that the market is stable in storybook Talbot County on the eastern...2023-10-0151 minYour Valuable HomeYour Valuable Home - Real Estate Round-Up - Part 1In our Replay, Joann’s “Mom suite” is complete. She’s moved in and lovin’ it. It’s the third week of the month...time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. Today We discuss how, in our opinion, more and more companies are passing the cost of customer service on to the customer. Based on your experience, do you agree? In the Feature today, real estate pros in New Jersey and Pennsylvania kick off the second year of the Your Valuable Home Real Estate Round Up. Join us over the next several weeks, as real estate pros from around the country weigh...2023-09-2454 minYour Valuable HomeWhat’s Up In Residential Real Estate Around the Country. Our 2023 Real Estate Round Up Begins TodayIn our Replay, Joann’s “Mom suite” is complete. She’s moved in and lovin’ it. It’s the third week of the month...time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. Today We discuss how, in our opinion, more and more companies are passing the cost of customer service on to the customer. Based on your experience, do you agree? In the Feature today, real estate pros in New Jersey and Pennsylvania kick off the second year of the Your Valuable Home Real Estate Round Up. Join us over the next several weeks, as real estate pros from around the country weigh...2023-09-2354 minYour Valuable HomeWhat’s Up In Residential Real Estate Around the Country. Our 2023 Real Estate Round Up Begins TodayIn our Replay, Joann’s “Mom suite” is complete. She’s moved in and lovin’ it. It’s the third week of the month...time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. Today We discuss how, in our opinion, more and more companies are passing the cost of customer service on to the customer. Based on your experience, do you agree? In the Feature today, real estate pros in New Jersey and Pennsylvania kick off the second year of the Your Valuable Home Real Estate Round Up. Join us over the next several weeks, as real estate pros from around the country weigh in...2023-09-2254 minYour Valuable HomeWind Energy Completes Our Interviews About the Momentous Clean Energy Initiative at the U.S. DOE.In the Replay, Michael and Michelle describe the devastating house fire that sidetracked their lives. In the Horror Story, as if things were not bad enough, Michael and Michelle hired a contractor who was more interested in shaking them down than building back their home. In the Feature today, Patrick Gilman Program Manager in the Wind Energy Technologies Office at the U.S. Department of Energy wraps up our four-part series How We’ll Power America Going Forward. It’s going to take a mix of clean energy resources to achieve President Biden’s goals of a 100 percent clean electri...2023-09-161h 02Your Valuable HomeWind Energy Completes Our Series on the Clean Energy Initiative at the U.S. DOEIn the Replay, Michael and Michelle describe the devastating house fire that sidetracked theirlives. In the Horror Story, as if things were not bad enough, Michael and Michelle hired acontractor who was more interested in shaking them down than building back their home. In theFeature today, Patrick Gilman Program Manager in the Wind Energy Technologies Office at theU.S. Department of Energy wraps up our four-part series How We’ll Power America GoingForward. It’s going to take a mix of clean energy resources to a...2023-09-161h 02Your Valuable HomeEnter episode titleRequired: Enter show notes.2023-09-151h 02Your Valuable HomeEnter episode titleRequired: Enter show notes.2023-09-151h 02Your Valuable HomeHow We’ll Power America Going Forward, Wk 3: The Versatility and Promise of Hydrogen is Amazing!In our Replay today, Chuck wraps up the story of the mom-suite he had built in his house.In the Horror Story, a homeowner learns that the poor choice of a contractor results in a poorly installed patio door.It’s week three of our Series, How We’ll Power America Going Forward. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Sunita Satyapal, Director of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, who will explain how hydrogen is used today, and the potentially expansive use of it...2023-09-0854 minYour Valuable HomeHow We’ll Power America Going Forward, Wk 3: The Versatility and Promise of Hydrogen is Amazing!In our Replay today, Chuck wraps up the story of the mom-suite he had built in his house.In the Horror Story, a homeowner learns that the poor choice of a contractor results in a poorly installed patio door. It’s week three of our Series, How We’ll Power America Going Forward. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Sunita Satyapal, Director of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office, who will explain how hydrogen is used today, and the potent...2023-09-0151 minYour Valuable HomeHow We’ll Power America Going Forward, We Learn That Nuclear Power Is Making an Amazing Comeback!In our Replay today, we continue with the story of Chuck’s mother’s in-law suite...an invaluable story, if you’re planning multi-generational living arrangements.In the Horror Story, a “window company” measures incorrectly and poor installation results.In our Feature today, we get a fascinating rundown on two new types of nuclear technology sure to play a large role in How America Powers Itself Going Forward. This briefing comes from Dr. Caty Huff, Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy in the U.S. Department of Energy. This isanoth...2023-08-2549 minYour Valuable HomeHow We’ll Power America Going Forward with DOE Deputy Director, Garrett NilsenIn the Replay today, Chuck (Joanne's son from last week) completes the story of the In-law suite that he hired Kevin to build in his house.In the Horror Story, roof contractor is FULL of excuses. In our Feature today, we begin the four-part series, How We’ll Power America Going Forward, with subject, experts from the US Department of Energy. To begin this, Your Valuable Home exclusive will talk with Garrett Nilsen, DOE Deputy Director, about the current status and future of solar Then, in the following three weeks, we’l...2023-08-181h 06Your Valuable HomeWhat’s on the minds of Real Estate People Who Guide Home BuyersIn our Replay, Joanne shares the early stages of what it’s like to build multi-generational living accommodations in her son’s house.In the Horror Story, THE BAD GUY BULLETIN, is a must-listen.In our Feature today, Brandi Snowden, Director, Member, and Consumer SurveyResearch discusses the National Association of Realtors recent Sustainability Report. In this report, NAR members (brokers and agents) let us in on their customers’ perceptions and real issues in residential real estate from multiple perspectives. It’s all about brokers reporting on the stat...2023-08-1146 minYour Valuable HomePart 4 of 4 Listener Favorites of 2022!This episode is the fourth of a special 4 part series of listener favorites! Enjoy!--In our Replay today, Tish shares her and her husband’s Adventure in Downsizing. Be prepared to take notes and learn from their experience. In the Horror Story today, an “electrician” made Swiss Cheese out of a ceiling to install a few lights. Hard to believe! Our Feature today focuses on a culprit that can change your life: Lyme. Could the chronic condition of a family member or friend be the re...2023-08-041h 18Your Valuable HomePart 3 of 4 Listener Favorites of 2022!This episode is the third of a special 4 part series of listener favorites! Enjoy!--In the Replay today, Tom explains why he and his wife decided on ProVia Siding and he admires a siding job well done. In the Horror Story, still, another contractor claims to be what he’s not on social media. We don’t have to tell you that more bad guys than ever are working overtime to separate you from your hard-earned money. In addition to rip-offs by unscrupulous contractors, email...2023-07-291h 00Your Valuable HomePart 2 of 4 Listener Favorites of 2022!This episode is the second of a special 4 part series of listener favorites scheduled to post over the span of the next 4 Fridays! Enjoy!--In the Replay today, Don shares the plan for his house now under construction in the Jersey seaside town of Stone Harbor. In the Horror Story, a new door installation reveals a potentially catastrophicproblem....no header! If you have residential investment properties or are thinking about acquiring one, invest 30 minutes listening to Scott Abernathy. Scott is the...2023-07-2159 minYour Valuable HomePart 1 of 4 Listener Favorites of 2022!This episode is the first of a special 4 part series of listener favorites scheduled to post over the span of the next 4 Fridays! Enjoy!--In the Replay today, Mike phones in an update on the installation of his new ProViawindows and doors. In the Horror Story, we cover the shortcomings in somemanufacturers’ warranties. In the Feature this week, we interview Jessica Lautz, PhD, Vice President of Demographics and Behavioral Insights at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) about th...2023-07-1454 minYour Valuable HomeUpdate 2: Today We Discuss Key Strategies of Marsh Forward, the Plan to Save 1,000,000 Acres of Atlantic Coast Salt MarshIn the Replay today, we wrap up Tom’s dormer expansion project. It was a tough job for Kevin and company, but the end result is just what Tom had envisioned.In our Horror Story, we uncover the case of a contractor who started a large project without getting the required permits. He did, however, require large upfront payments.In the Feature, Cam Jaggard from the PEW Charitable Trusts is back to explain the two key strategies in the Marsh Forward plan that will guide 300 organizations and individuals as th...2023-07-0747 minYour Valuable HomeUpdate: The Mission to Save 1,000,000 acres of vital Atlantic Coast Salt MarshIn our Replay today, Tom and Kevin explain the intricate job of adding livable space in the dormers of Tom’s home. In the Horror Story, a homeowner is left with a lot of problems in a project done by a contractor his HOA approved. Our Feature today is about a massive project to rescue a vital natural resource. Coastal salt marsh performs multiple important functions, like serving as a carbon sink and an effective line of defense against rising seas. A massive initiative is underway to save 1,000,000 acres of...2023-06-3042 minYour Valuable HomeAll about Wildland Fires: Can a Wildland Fire Threaten Your Community?In our Replay today, Bud, who has been around home improvementcontracting much of his life, talks about what’s wrong with the industrytoday, and what can be done to fix it.It’s once again time for the Bad GuyBulletin with tips on scams to guard against like the recent flurry of Pay Palhoaxes. The scammer’s goal is to get you to call and volunteer yourinformation. Don’t do it. Even people without PayPal accounts are beinghounde...2023-06-2451 minYour Valuable HomeThe Reason for Botched Home Improvement Job May be the Contractor’s EstimateIn our Replay today, Kevin grills a builder local to our area on the properand improper installation of building products. The Horror Story is about ahomeowner who gave a contractor one-half of the estimated cost ofbuilding a shed. The contractor hasn’t been seen since. The lesson:beware contractors seeking excessive front money. When a homeimprovement project goes bad, it often tracks back to a lack of knowledgeor due diligence in selecting a contractor – and a lack of detail on thepr...2023-06-1743 minYour Valuable HomeONE-PS in Palm Springs could be a Neighborhood Association Model for smaller Cities Across America.In our Replay today, Kevin and Ron discuss the planning and execution ofa major ProVia® window project. In the Horror Story, this homeowner paidfor a new roof and instead got new shingles installed right over the oldones...a major roofing no-no. In our Featured Segment today, we learnabout ONE-PS, the neighborhood association model that has been workingwonders in Palm Spring California. One-PS is the entity that unites over 50neighborhood associations in this California town of some 45,000 people.All of these n...2023-06-0956 minYour Valuable HomeThe state of the real estate market in Philadelphia and Beyond!In the replay this week, Pat Leach, talks about his Provia windows.In the Horror Story, a homeowner had a contractor fix wood windows with duct tape and paint.In our Feature segment, Sandy Smith, Home and Real Estate Editor of Philadelphia Magazine, talks about the state of the real estate market in Philadelphia and Beyond!2023-06-0250 minYour Valuable HomeBehind the Scenes of One of the Hottest Reality TV Shows, Maine Cabin MastersIn our Replay today, with the help of New Pod City's Frank Sasso, we scam a scammer who is eager to flip off an estimate for a roofing job sight unseen and take a credit card number over the phone. You’ve got to hear this!In the Horror Story today, social media ads enable a scare tactic to make a roofing sale.In today’s feature, we do a fascinating interview with Chase Morrill, one of the hosts of the hit Magnolia Network show, Maine Cabin Masters. How did...2023-05-2545 minYour Valuable HomeIs an interior designer in your future?In our Replay today, we cover a credit card shakedown that’s not to bebelieved. Often subs hired by a contractor have a mind of their own. In thiscase, they also had the nerve to walk off the job.This is the second week in a row where we pick the brain of multiple award-winning interior designer, Donna Hoffman. Ever wondered if you should hire an interior designer?Donna will help you puzzle through that question. She’ll also...2023-05-1945 minYour Valuable HomeOutstanding Advice for Design-It-Yourselfers from Top Interior Designer, Donna Hoffman – plus a FREE design resource.In the Replay, we have a further discussion on the YouTube video on a more detailed installation of the windows for the Sugar Shack in Knoxville, PA! See video here: https://youtu.be/e5ZNj20TYP0In the Horror story, Since the Trex show last week we continue with a Bad deck job, to a happy Trex ending!If you’re feeling dissatisfied with your home’s interior, and you have the urge to design-it-yourself, relax and listen to some great advice from multiple award-winning interior designer, Donna Hoffman.2023-05-1250 minYour Valuable HomeGot a Deck Planned? Hear a Convincing Case for Trex.In our Replay today, Kevin and Ron discuss the frenzy of Roofing ads on Social Media, what is their agenda?In the Horror story, a listener asks for advice on how to fix the BAD tile installation job they recently completed.In our Featured segment today, we talk with the Trex Director of Product Marketing about all aspects of Trex decking that make it the logical choice over wood and other composites. The science and engineering behind Trex, keep it from rotting, warping, and splitting from being damaged by...2023-05-0547 minYour Valuable HomePart 2: Architect Illya Azaroff Talks About How Resilient Construction, Heat Pumps, PBR and the Inflation Reduction Act Can Make Life Better for HomeownersIn the Replay today, dad John struggles to get a contractor-created house of horrors under control. There’s a lot to be corrected, and Kevin works alongside John step-by-step to make it happen.In the Horror Story today we talk about BAD electrical wiring in a basement, and why it is so important to get permits! Finally, in our Featured segment architect Illya Azaroff gives us a a glimpse of how the concept of resilience in residentialconstruction, performance-based regulation of utilities and the 21st century heat pu...2023-04-2953 minYour Valuable HomeThere’s A Sea Change Coming in Residential Construction...A Change for the Better. Part 1 of a 2-part Series with Notable Architect Illya Azaroff.In our Replay today, Morgen talks about the final touches of her whole-house renovationthat began as a horror story. Kevin Kennedy helped turn things around. Today, it’s onceagain time for the Bad Guy Bulletin. Marc Fuber from the Bucks County DA’s officeoffers suggestions on the theft of Stephanie’s belongings by a New York movingcompany. (Steph’s story was in our 3/17/23 podcast.) Ron talks about anacknowledged Publishers’ Clearing House scam that includes a live check. Absolutelydon’t fall for this one! No...2023-04-221h 02Your Valuable HomeIs Your Home Safe from Severe Weather? Continuous Load May be the Answer.In our Replay today, Kevin offers valuable advice to a new listener ready to update her kitchen, family room and bath. In the Horror Story, you’ll wonder how a flooring “pro” could do such a sloppy job. Continuous Load is an engineering principle that can help recently built homes withstand strong winds...possibly even a tornado. If your home was built to codes as they existed years ago, you can achieve some of the benefit of continuous load with Simpson Strong Tie products that essentially connect different sections of a house frame to each other to form a stronger...2023-04-1455 minYour Valuable HomePEW Charitable Trusts is helping states prepare for inevitable flooding.In our Replay, Robin talks about the plan and progress regarding her basement and bath projects.In the Horror Story today...Is it proper construction etiquette for one contractor to offload trash into another contractor’s dumpster? No kidding!In our Feature, Matt Sanders from PEW Charitable Trusts reports on the initiatives four forward-thinking states – New Jersey, North and South Carolina, and Maine – are taking to mitigate the damage and threat to their residents that flooding will cause in the future.Most people don’t realize th...2023-04-0857 minYour Valuable HomeWestern states are preventing collisions between animals and motorists with help from PEW Charitable Trusts.In the Replay today, Susan shares the story of her new roof. And in the Horror Story, this homeowner was set to refer the contractor, until Kevin noticed issues with the job inphotos the homeowner sent. Good catch, Kev! In today’s Feature, Matt Skroch, ProjectDirector U.S. Public Lands and Rivers Conservation at PEW Charitable Trusts, fill us inon how western states are keeping motorists and large, migrating animals from tanglingwith each other on the highway. Using GPS to track the migration paths of Moose, Elk...2023-04-0148 minYour Valuable HomeHome Inspections: The Upside of Doing Them, the Downside of Waiving Them.In the Replay, Christina Sasso talks about she and husband Frank’s plans for the refurbishment of a cottage on their upstate PA property. The cottage was formerly used to process maple syrup. Refurbishing begins with two expansive ProVia® windows to be installed by our own Kevin Kennedy. In the Horror Story, Ron relates how a routine water heater swap-out in his Philadelphia rental unit became a nightmare. In our Feature today, we discuss the value and wisdom of making an offer on a residential propertycontingent upon a satisfactory home inspection. In the feverish sellers’ market of th...2023-03-2854 minYour Valuable HomeHere’s a Pre-fab Option for Home Buyers Tired of Getting Shut Out of this Sellers’ Market.In the Replay today, Mt. Pleasant Window and Remodeling Company provides testimony to the quality of ProVia windows. The company has been a ProVia dealer for about 40 years. In the Bad Guy Bulletin today, Stephanie reveals a widespread scam that involves a moving broker and a mover. She lost everything when she turned to these two companies to store her belongings before making a move out of New York City. Turns out it will probably take an act of congress to stop this insidious shakedown scheme. Acorn Deck House has been around for years, offering home buyers prefabricated homes in t...2023-03-1800 minYour Valuable HomeAnyone Who’s Had It with Being Outbid on Homes in this Seller’s Market Needs to Listen to Today’s Feature.In the Replay today, Charla describes her bathroom re-dos. Our Horror Story today drives home the point that, bad a underlayment installation almost always results in a bad tile job. In the Feature today, PA realtor, Jeff Lavine, talks about alternatives to buying an already-lived-in home, which may be leaving a lot of prospective buyers in the lurch for one of three reasons: 1) You get there too late, 2) You get outbid by someone willing waive an inspection and bid crazy money over asking, or 3) The house isn’t that desirable. You do have options. For example, it you live or ca...2023-03-1100 minYour Valuable HomeAn Interview with Matt White from Berkshire Hathaway – Fox RocheIn the Replay today, Kevin takes us to his house on the Jersey shore to Replay the renovation of a fireplace using ProVia® manufactured stone veneer. Visuals to be posted to Facebook. The Horror Story is about another dreadful siding and window job. The windows are new and they’re leaking. Surprise! All Your Valuable Home listeners with rental properties will want to hear what Matt White from Berkshire Hathaway – Fox Roche has to say about making money with residential real estate today. An Interview with Matt White from Berkshire Hathaway – Fox RocheFile Size: 55269 kbFile Type: mp3Download File2023-03-0400 minYour Valuable HomeHow to Add Value to Your Home Without Spending a FortuneIn the Replay today, Susan shares her satisfaction with her new ProVia® entry door. Next...a hardwood floor Horror Story that proves who you choose to refinish your floors matters a lot. The wrong equipment in the wrong hands can result in a mess throughout the house. In last week’s Your Valuable Home, Kevin and Ron were joined by three members of the Placemakers Guild in a brainstorming session aimed at generating affordable ideas about community improvement. This week, Kevin, Ron, and sought-after interior designer, Donna Hoffman, brainstorm great ideas for improving the value of your home and any...2023-02-2400 minYour Valuable HomeHow to Add Value to Your Community One Affordable Step at a Time.In our Replay today, Jess is back to finish our discussion about her new kitchen and bath. It’s our third podcast of the month, time for another Bad Guy Bulletin. Ron and Kevin are once again joined by Mike Bannon from Bucks County Consumer Protection/Weights and Measures. As long as the Bad Guys stay at it, we’ll keep exposing the scams and shakedowns so you don’t get burned. To celebrate our upcoming 100th podcast and the start of our tenth year of doing Your Valuable Home, we asked frequent contributor, Gary Toth and two of his co...2023-02-1700 minYour Valuable HomeDr. Jessica Lautz, NAR’s Deputy Chief Economist with a Forecast of the Real Estate Market 2023In our Replay today, Jessica, a homeowner, shares the excitement of planning a high-end kitchen and bath remodel. In the Horror Story, Kevin shares the electrical and other issues a contractor who worked on Jessica’s house years ago left behind. This is a lesson in what happens if your contractor fails to get permits. Jessica Lautz from the National Association of Realtors and a good friend of Your Valuable Home shares a 2023 forecast of the housing market. You may be as surprised as we were to hear the NAR’s pick of 10 hot real estate markets for 2023. Hint: thin...2023-02-1600 minYour Valuable HomeThe Coolest Neighborhoods in America series concludes w/ Frank Lloyd Wright Creations in Buffalo, NYIn our Replay today, Courtney walks us through her kitchen remodel and why she chose ProVia® for replacement windows. In the Horror Story, John Gallagher is back after discovering more problems with his daughter and son-in-law’s whole house re-do. Most people don’t know that Buffalo, New York has the greatest concentration of residences and other structures designed by the architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Our focus in Buffalo is the Wright-designed Martin House, created for Darwin D. Martin and his family and the Martin’s summer residence, Graycliff, perched on a cliff above Lake Erie’s shores. These two homes...2023-02-1500 minYour Valuable HomeThe Coolest Neighborhoods in America Series continues with "Bungalow Heaven" in Pasadena, CAIn our Replay today, dad, John, steps in to help Morgan and Conner take back control of their whole house reno. They told their story in our last previous podcast. In the Horror Story, dad does some detective work and finds many deficiencies in the job the contractor is doing for Morgan and John. In the Feature today, we explore the leafy, magical world of the Landmark district, Bungalow Heaven, with two longtime residents, Carol and Juan. Bungalow Heaven, not far from the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA, is a treasure trove of exquisitely preserved Arts and Crafts/Craftsman...2023-02-1400 minYour Valuable HomeThe Coolest Neighborhoods in America Series continues to the Mid Mod Mecca, Palm SpringsIn our Replay today, a young couple suffers a bad case of contractor-itis when the renovation of their recently purchased row home goes off the rails. Kevin lends a hand to get the project back on track. In the Bad Guy Bulletin today, we’re again joined by Mike Bannon of Bucks County Consumer Protection, Weights and Measures who weighs in on a half dozen online scams and the downside of home warranties. In our Featured segment today, the next stop on our tour of The Coolest Neighborhoods in America, the epicenter of mid-century modernism, Palm Springs. This is the...2023-02-1300 minYour Valuable HomeThe Coolest Neighborhoods in America Series Continues with the Log Homes of Medford Lakes, NJIn our Replay today, we talk with Pat, a customer of Kevin’s company, VSP, about why he chose ProVia® vinyl replacement windows. Horror Stories often result from contractors either not knowing the basics or simply ignoring them. In this case lack of a proper underlayment resulted in a siding Horror Story. In our “Coolest Neighborhoods in America” feature today, we zoom in on Medford Lakes in the southern New Jersey pine forest. This town was born as a resort but grew into a year-round community. Dozens upon dozens of log homes here have been preserved with a lot of TLC. T...2023-01-1400 minYour Valuable HomeIntroducing the “Coolest Neighborhoods” Series: 1st- Multiple Mid Mod Neighborhoods Around PhillyIn today’s Replay, Deb talks about the finalization of her kitchen renovation. In the Horror Story today, Kevin intercedes (at the homeowner’s request) in a roofing job gone awry. The Coolest Neighborhoods in America is a five-week series ...a must for all YVH listeners who are fascinated by historically significant residential architecture and the way communities celebrate and preserve it. First up, the Mid-Mod neighborhoods around Philadelphia, including Monk Road, where Mid-Mod architecture is mandated, Whitemarsh Village a Mid-Mod community situated on the grounds of what once was one of the most extensive homes in America, and much, much...2023-01-0800 minYour Valuable HomeGet the Jump on 2023 Home Improvement Projects. Start Planning Now!In our Replay today, Deb recaps her kitchen and first-floor renovation. Our Horror Story has to do with windows improperly installed — a disaster waiting to happen. Don’t let this happen to you. Listen in as Ron interviews Kevin about why you should start planning now for any large home improvement projects you want to complete by Spring or Summer 2023. An addition, new windows, new siding — these and other projects take time to plan under normal circumstances, However, now, with some lingering supply chain problems, lead time becomes even more critical. Plus, you have decision points like choosing a contractor, select...2022-12-3000 minYour Valuable HomeBuilding a Home, or Planning a Major Remodeling? Consider Custom Furniture.In the Replay today, Brian walks us through part 2 of his kitchen and bath reno. In the Horror Story today, Kevin comes across an incredibly bad
HVAC installation. The homeowners heard dripping and found water on their basement floor. Turns out the water was coming from the second
floor...the improperly installed HVAC system. Look for photos of this OOOPS on this week’s Your Valuable Home Instagram and Facebook
postings. In our Feature today, superstar pros, Brad Sullivan, head of Cider Press Woodworks, and multiple award-winning interior designer,
Donna Hoffman team up with ideas for Custom Furniture that makes a...2022-12-2300 minYour Valuable HomeIs Your Home Safe for the Coming Holiday Season and Beyond?In our Replay today, Kevin explains the renovations he has planned for his home on the Jersey shore (AKA, the beach), a family room redo, a gas insert, new flooring and ProVia stone. In our Horror Story, we report on a contractor who is remediating stucco in a development, and doing the job wrong. PLUS, this is the first of our once-a-month Bad Guy Bulletins, where we call out the creative ways the bad guys are out to separate you from your hard-earned money. With the holidays and gift shopping on your mind, it’s easy to put a hom...2022-12-2300 minYour Valuable HomeSomething New from Escape (tiny) Homes: the eEscape all-electric series!In the Replay today, Brian fills us in on the progress being made with his kitchen and bath re-do, including an innovative solution to capitalizing on unused space. It’s the third week of the month, so we’re back with the Bad Guy Bulletin. Lots of scams unmasked today. We’re joined by Mike Bannon from Bucks County Consumer Protection, Weight and Measures, and Kim, a listener who recently avoided a combination of email and Facebook scam involving a grant. In our Feature today, we’ve talked with Dan George, head of Escape Homes, about his company’s ingeniously designed s...2022-12-1700 minYour Valuable HomeTeam up with Bucks County DA’s Office and Consumer Protection So Our Listeners Don’t Get Shaken DownIn the Replay today, Tom explains why he and his wife decided on ProVia Siding and he admires a siding job well done. In the Horror Story, still another contractor claims to be what he’s not on social media. We don’t have to tell you that more bad guys than ever are working overtime to separate you from your hard-earned money. In addition to rip-offs by unscrupulous contractors, email, snail mail, and telephone scams are definitely on the rise and the bad guys are getting bolder every day. Learn about the latest scams. Knowledge is your first line...2022-12-1600 minYour Valuable HomeTo CLARFI...some people need help with their finances.Mike wraps up his kitchen re-do point-by point. In our Horror Story today. Another contractor installed windows without flashing. No...the caulk didn’t help! CLARIFI is a Philadelphia non-profit that’s been on this mission for 50 years, helping “more than 750,000 families throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding Delaware Valley...achieve financial resilience and positively impact their communities. CLARIFI has a positive impact on moderate to low-income families by counseling them on how to reduce debt, save, improve credit, buy homes. This is a story of hope presented by Steve Gardner from CLARIFI.2022-12-1000 minYour Valuable HomeThe Contractor Shakedowns Happening in Bucks County, PA Could Happen To You.In our Replay today, Christine is lovin’ the fresh, new look of her home created by ProVia Siding, windows and a new ProVia door. In our Horror Story, a roofer’s subcontractor removed the old step flashing but didn’t replace it. A perfect reason to demand cell phone photos, if you have a new roof in your future. Marc Furber from the Bucks County DA’s Office joins us for the Featured segment today to talk about some of the latest cases to cross his desk involving contractors. At Your Valuable Home, we cannot overemphasize the importance of due diligen...2022-12-0900 minYour Valuable HomeExploring the Far-Reaching impact of Lyme and Lyme+ with authority, Dr. Steven Phillips.In our Replay today, Tish shares her and her husband’s Adventure in Downsizing. Be prepared to take notes and learn from their experience. In the Horror Story today, an “electrician” made Swiss Cheese out of a ceiling to install a few lights. Hard to believe! Our Feature today focuses on a culprit that can change your life: Lyme. Could the chronic condition of a family member or friend be the result of undiagnosed Lyme+ Disease? What is Lyme+? Are most family practice physicians capable of identifying Lyme or Lyme+? Is the average blood test to detect Lyme effective? Is routin...2022-12-0300 minYour Valuable HomeCould This Be a better Way to Rebuild After Natural Disasters?In the aftermath of hurricane Ian, our entire podcast today is devoted to a fascinating interview with Illya Azaroff, FA IA, an internationally recognized leader in disaster mitigation, resilient planning and design strategies. Illya is the immediate past president of AIA New York, elected to the AIA Board of Directors as a 2023-2025 at-large director, and appointed an AIA COP 27 delegate to attend global talks on climate and disaster risk reduction. COP is a common reference to the United Nations Climate Change Conference. All this in addition to serving as Director of Design and Resilient Strategies at his architectural f...2022-12-0200 minYour Valuable HomeAre You Covered for Named Storms and Identify Theft?Our Replay today is all about permits. When do you need them? Why can they sometimes be difficult to get? Our Horror Story today is about a not-so-handyman who had difficulty putting up one piece of drywall that fell down the next morning. In our Featured segment today, we talk with Mike Celucci, an Erie Insurance agent about homeowners’ coverage....particularly coverage for weather that seems to be getting increasingly severe across the U.S. For example, if you live in an area where you never gave flood insurance a second thought, what happens in the event of a freak fl...2022-11-2500 minYour Valuable HomePost Ian, The Head of an HOA in Captiva, FL Has His Hands Full.In our Replay today Phil, from New Jersey, purchased an adjoining lot with plans to build a B&B. Interesting idea! We get his initial thinking and offer some ideas of our own. Then, continuing with our series on the Southwest, Florida barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, we speak with Ed, the head of an HOA in Captiva with responsibility for 68 condo units. The focus of the interview: the challenge of shipping workers and materials to Captiva with the causeway from the mainland down and continuing supply chain delays. Aerial photos show that most of the units and r...2022-11-2500 minYour Valuable HomeFlorida residents cope with one of the worst natural disasters in history – focus on Sanibel and CaptivaIn our Replay today, a listener is planning an out-side-the-box B&B on his large property in New Jersey. Our Horror Story and Feature are about how Florida residents are coping with their worst nightmare – Ian. We talk with Jack who has a home on Sanibel, We also talk with his daughter-in-law, Bronwyn, who with husband, Mike, moved their permanent home to neighboring Captiva this past August. Both share their perspectives on devastation Ian left behind. Like most Sanibel residents, Jack has yet to return to his home. Bronwyn reached hers via boat. Without water and power infrastructure, repairs an...2022-11-1800 minYour Valuable HomeA Sobering Discussion About Electric Vehicles (EVs), Solar and Wind.In the Replay, Courtney shares her kitchen expansion reno that gives her downstairs a “now” look. In our Horror Story, we debut The Bad Guy Bulletin, our once-a-month expose’ on shakedowns and scams from home improvement contractors and bad actors who use the phone, email and the post office to bilk you out of your money. Are EVs really the environmentally friendly auto option? We do a deep dive into EV batteries, solar and wind power with Barry and Chris, two listeners and top energy sector executives. How many tons of rare earths does it take to make the batteries for ju...2022-11-1800 minYour Valuable HomeThis company is cashing in on a booming rental market with build-to-rent projects in Philly Our Replay today is about a home improvement project that can aid in planning yours. In the Horror Story, Kevin and his team find potentially dangerous wiring in the wall, while remodeling a kitchen. Lucky homeowner! In our Feature today, Leo Addimando, the CEO of Alterra Property Group, talks about how his company is capitalizing on modular construction to erect multiple build-to-rent buildings in Philadelphia, a booming rental market. Build-to-rent means that the developer owns all of the units in a building with the intention of renting – and in this case – managing them. If you’re a landlord with a few u...2022-11-1100 minYour Valuable HomeWill New Jersey Be Ready for the Next Superstorm?In our Replay today, Mike explains the plan for his kitchen and flooring re-do. Our Horror Story is about another job not so well done by a contractor. With the changes New Jersey has made in its Muni2022-11-0400 minYour Valuable HomeThe Many Issues Caused by This Hyper-Seller’s MarketIn our Replay today, Kevin explains why your contractor may not be able to give you a solid estimate for a scheduled project. Supply chain issues for lumber and other building materials and products are causing headaches for contractors and homeowners. The Horror Story deals with a ridiculous window installation. If you’re house hunting, our Featured Interview with realtor, Jeff Lavine, will help you understand the causes (note the plural) of your frustrations – and possibly prevent you from making a buying blunder.2022-05-2746 minYour Valuable HomeWhich is safer to drink, well water or municipal water?This Your Valuable Home begins with Charla sharing the vision for her new kitchen. The plan includes removing a load-bearing wall, and some other nice touches that could aid in your own kitchen planning.In our Horror Story today, Kevin recounts the story of how a contractor’s lies in his social media got through unchecked. In our Featured segment, drinking water expert, Steve Wiley, explains how people with well water can get shaken down for expensive remediation of bacteria when a prospective buyer orders a water analysis. Steve al...2021-07-1645 minYour Valuable HomeEscape Home’s Dan George returns for an encore interview!Leading up to today’s featured interview, Bernie, the roofer explains why there are shingle shortages of certain styles and colors in this lingering Covid environment.In the Horror Story, Bernie cites three or four problems caused by inept roofers, and how you can guard against them. In the featured segment, Dan George, who was a listener favorite last week, is back to talk about Escape (tiny home) vacation rentals available in 12 states across the country( at $160 or so a night, a money maker for the unit owners), Escape’s Tampa Bay...2021-07-0952 minYour Valuable HomeSuccess is Spelled T-Y-V-E-KOur Replay today and our Horror Story are both about Mark and his bathroom re-do. Bathrooms can be difficult, and this one was. In our Featured interview today we speak with Alan Hubbell from DuPont Tyvek. Such a simple product, but it can keep you out of trouble. For example, Tyvek Wrap around a window cavity before the window is installed can provide you with many years of trouble-free installation. Why not insist on it?2021-05-2159 minYour Valuable HomeWhy Do Some Cities and Towns Flourish and Others Flounder? Part 2In our Replay today, Lisa tells the story of her just-completed kitchen. The projectincluded the relocation of her washing machine to the upstairs master bedroom. This outside-the-box solution facilitated the expansion of the kitchen. Split HVAC systems require a lot of tubing to be inserted into wall cavities. In our Horror Story today an installer got creative and ran the tubing on the outside of the house, including over the roof. Unbelievable! In our Feature segment, singer, songwriter, and author Dar Williams joins Gary Toth and...2021-05-141h 01Your Valuable HomeWhy Do Some Cities and Towns Flourish and Others Flounder?Great question. Please join us as Your Valuable Home addresses the question and what it takes to revitalize a town from two different perspectives: The view of the professional planners and pros of related disciplines who make up The Placemakers Guild. Then on 5/13, singer, songwriter, and author, Dar Williams, joins the conversation and shares some of the wonderous transformations she’s experienced in cities and towns across America. It’s all in her book What I Foundin a Thousand Towns: A Traveling Musicians Guide to Rebuilding AmericasCommunities-One Coffee Shop, Dog Run, and Open-Mike Nigh...2021-05-0759 minYour Valuable HomeLessons from the learned landlord and property managerIn our Replay today, Kevin explains to a homeowner how windows should be replaced to avoid causing damage to the surrounding stucco. The Horror Story today comes from Ann, a residential landlord, who reports on an alarming development at one of the HOA-run communities where she has a rental property….a $500 annual assessment against investor owners of properties in the community. In the feature, we welcome back, Scott Abernathy, a valued Your Valuable Home contributor. Scott is president of his own property management company in Murfreesboro Tennessee, PMI Property Ma...2021-04-3053 minYour Valuable HomeShould you live in a multigenerational household?In the Replay today, we discuss what it takes to make for a successful siding andwindow installation – and the difference it can make in the appearance of a home. In the Horror Story, Kevin reports on a basement remodel that included a kitchen and an electrical nightmare lurking behind the walls. In our Featured interview, we address the surge in multigenerational living brought on by Covid and the need for financial support and/or care for aging family members. Donna Butts, Executive Director of the DC no...2021-04-2348 minYour Valuable HomeRoofing wisdom from the company that 88 years ago set the standard for asphalt shingles that remains today.In our Replay today, we talk about wrapping up Leslie’s remodel to benefit her aging mom. This complex job included a kitchen in the basement, a chair lift, and the removal of a load-bearing wall.Our Horror Story deals with the DONTs of window installation in a stucco application.In our Featured segment, two executives from GAF, the company that set the standard for asphalt shingles in 1933 serve up Roofing 101 and explain how homeowners from Texas to New England could have avoided water damage caused by ice damming.2021-04-1549 minYour Valuable HomeWhat’s Driving the Great American Migration?In our Replay today, we talk with Bob about his move to his fiancé’s smallhouse and an innovative way to remake existing space for two work-at-home people. One bay of the exiting garage became a bar. The 400-square foot upstairs of the garage became Bob’s space. Maureen calls itthe “doghouse.” If you’re leaning toward improving vs moving, you’ll wantto hear this. In our Horror Story, you’ll learn what can happen to a housewhere the pan in the upstairs sh...2021-03-2658 min