HGTVPro.com Weekly: Resources for 09.06.08

Take your remodeling business in a new direction and be ready for the future. A home designed for a family with special needs is both accessible and beautiful. A new tool takes away the frustration of tricky cuts in tile. The value of keeping a jobsite clean. Business Tip: Home Automation such as automatic lights, HVAC systems, water heaters, drapes and blinds can save 25% energy. http://www.nbnnews.com/NBN/issues/2008-04-07/Technology/index.html Technology is good for business. Software systems can cut administrative and construction costs and help with customer service. http://www.nbnnews.com/NBN/issues/2008-03-31/Business%2BManagement/index.html Segment 1: In the News: The sluggish housing market weights down remodeling. 28% of households will have at least one disabled member by 2050. Meet a family whose life is changed by a house designed to meet their needs. Some experts believe Universal Design features can add to a home’s value. Fireman’s Fund is the fist to offer green homeowners insurance. Resources: Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity Journal of American Planning Association Certified Aging in Place Designation Program Fireman’s Fund Green Homeowners Insurance Segment 2: It’s All About Building Products: a couple of eco-friendly products; a hand tool to make designing decks a snap; plus a product that makes clean, round cuts in ceramic tile. Resources: RotoZip Tile Saw Editor’s Choice WRCLA Deck Designer Pine Hall Brick Pavers Bora-Care Termite Protection Product of the Day Sweepstakes Segment 3: The Best Practices for doing business better: Resources: BP What Makes a Home Green? http://www.buildiq.com/ Segment 4: A jobsite where cleaning up is everyone’s responsibility, everyday. Resources: HGTV Dream Home Central Ledson Homes Building the HGTV Dream Home