Construction Spending in June Grows at Fastest Rate

A recent analyst report by The Associated General Contractors of America states that construction has grown at its fastest rate in June 2015 since 2006. This incredible growth spurt was brought on by several private and public categories of construction, according to the report. The private sector growth saw 15% gains last year (that off-set a few losses this year – as spending dipped to a light 1.3% in June 2015).

Spending rose strongly in June from a year ago for all major construction categories—private nonresidential, residential and public,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist.

According to Simonson, construction spending in June was at $1.6 trillion – the highest since March 2014. This is indicative that spending on construction is moving forward and analysts are bullish. Private residential spending increased 0.4 percent for June and 13 percent over the past 12 months. Public construction spending rose 1.6 percent from June and 8.0 percent from 12 months earlier.

In certain regional markets, like Tampa, Florida, the real estate market and construction spending figures are especially bright. New home starts were up 24.5% over last year and new housing inventories rose 10-percent in Tampa and construction rose by 2.8%. “Rising employment, low interest rates and lower inventory are all contributing to robust growth overall, notes a senior executive at Homeowners Choice Construction LLC, a leading construction company in Tampa, Florida, “a number of big ticket exterior renovations, such as roof replacement and repair that had been postponed during the past few years are moving forward at a brisk pace.”

Despite this positive leap forward in construction spending, AGC officials warn that work shortages could occur as additional projects in both the private and public sectors ramp up. The AGC advise that developers and construction firms do a better job of treating the work like a career and offering more technical and training opportunities which could result in more robust recruiting as well as keeping key talent on the job.

AGC officials also advise that construction managers and owners adhere to the AGC’s Workforce Development Plan that provides advice on how to keep a construction crew motivated. “After all, construction is one of the few industries where the vast majority of work must be performed on-site and cannot be off-shored,” sites the AGC Workforce Plan.

In addition, the manual reports that “… A number of changing trends have combined to cripple what was once a robust education pipeline for new construction workers. Those factors include the dismantling of the public vocational and technical education programs, [and] declining participation in union apprenticeship training.”

“It is clear that construction is rebounding but the progress may stall unless there is a concerted effort at all levels of government to provide training to get new workers into high-paying construction careers,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer work because of a lack of qualified workers.”

Adding to optimism overall, the July NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index reached 60 in July, which is the highest level since November 2005 and this past June, The National Association of Realtors measure of existing home sales increased 3.2%, reaching the highest level since February 2007.

“While we believe every region will see different growth patterns and trends, residential growth is expected to continue for the foreseeable future,” confirmed the source at Homeowners Choice Construction LLC.

Home Features That Appeal to the Millennial

Millennials are realizing the importance of home ownership at an early age. While they are taking command of the work force, their needs and wants are also shaping the housing and design industries for the future. Baby boomers had a different outlook and need for the homes that they purchased in the past. However, millennials seem to have amenities, price and technology at the forefront of their needs.

Prime Features and Amenities

When it comes to housing, millennials aren’t afraid to work for what they want. They are also at the heart of what it means to have their own home. While the times have changed since the baby boomers first hit up the home scene, millennials are concentrating on prime features and special amenities. No matter if they’re turning a dwelling into something contemporary or purchasing something custom, they want to have everything that they need nearby. From the hottest restaurants and clubs to shopping and coffee shops, they aren’t willing to forego these important features. They are also looking for particular neighborhoods that focus on affordability. Townhomes and condominiums are other prime choices because many of them come with security, health clubs and other perks such as special parking.

High Rated Schools

For individuals with children, finding a home that is in close proximity to good schools can also be a plus. Instead of finding the home of their dreams, they may give up on such luxuries such as top rated appliances, eco-friendly hot water heaters, a pool and spa or large backyard in favor of a district that has the highest test scores and student productivity. Excellent schools will also help when the millennials want to go sell their home in the future. In a recent real estate survey, approximately 50 percent of millennials said that school district quality could cause them to skip purchasing a home, compared to 30 percent of the total buyers.

Technology in the Home

Today’s homes are equipped with the most modern of technology. Green features can include solar panels and skylights, built-in recycling cabinets and energy-efficient appliances. They also have the capabilities to have camera features, and the ability to monitor their security systems at work or on vacation through their smartphones and tablets. In addition to these intricate features, millennials also want other technological advances such as being able to turn on their lights before they get home and navigate their thermostat via iPad. While homeowners were once at the mercy of their pipes bursting while away overseas, technological advances make it easy for them to get an alert sent by way of text message when a pipe bursts or a basement has flooded.

Easy to Manage and Affordable Options 

Millennials and baby boomers are both in search of smaller living spaces today. However, when it comes to home designs, millennials are foregoing the traditional and lavish styles. While they’re making a pretty penny at such an early age, they have their eye set to the future and savings. Instead of stretching their budget beyond their means and credit poor, they are looking for modern dwellings that are environmentally-friendly, energy-efficient, inexpensive and comfortable. They know that it’s not wise to spend money heating and cooling rooms that they’re not going to be spending much time in. While dining rooms and huge kitchens were once popular options, millennials are into dining out. They also want multi-purpose living arrangements that are open concept. They see holidays and family get-together as an occasional occurrence, and they would much rather have a home that is practical than ostentatious. They also have their eye on media rooms instead of a formal great room for socialzing and entertaining their family and friends.

5 Renovations That Can Make a Home Safer without Sacrificing Aesthetic Appeal

While most homeowners aren't so fanatic about home security for it to cause a difference in their home's appearance, there are some situations in which an estate is in need of heightened security without the obvious barbwire fences and guarded gates. Fortunately, with a bit of creativity and a few simple suggestions, you can easily merge home design with home security and incorporate every component of an effective security system without making the place look like a maximum security prison. In the following paragraphs, we'll reveal five renovations you can use to improve the security and safety of your home without making significant changes to the aesthetic appearance of the property:

1. Professionally Installed Surveillance System

A home surveillance system with multiple cameras can be an eyesore when the cameras and wires are highly visible, bulky, or poorly placed. Hidden surveillance cameras not only look better, they're also less likely to be spotted by an intruder who might steal or damage them in an attempt to do away with video evidence. Thus, the solution is to have the cameras and all wired components of the surveillance system completely hidden from plain sight by utilizing the assistance of a trusted home security surveillance camera installation company.

2. Hidden Motion Sensors around the Exterior

Well-hidden motion sensors are another addition that can provide real-time awareness of the people and animals that trespass on to your property. Such sensors can be programmed to send automated alarms to your mobile device or to a connected alarm hub within the house. While this might sound like a high-tech renovation, motion sensors are relatively cheap, especially when you consider how much supervision they provide.

3. Add a Handicap Accessible Ramp, a Handrail, and Landscape Lights

Stairs are perhaps the most dangerous part of a home's exterior, as people can easily trip and fall, especially if the stairs aren't well-lit and accompanied by a handrail. Try installing a concrete ramp, handrail, and a few ground lights to light up the walkway at night, and your home will not only be safer, it will also look great after sunset if the lights are set up with design in mind, as landscape lighting should be.

4. Install a Reliable Home Alarm System

Automated home alarm systems provide many benefits, including the ability to directly notify local authorities in the event that an alarm is set off. These systems are especially important for homes that are left unattended for extended periods of time, as the likelihood of robbery is higher. Be sure to consider multiple alarm providers in your area before deciding on one that can suitably accommodate your home security needs.

5. Remove or Amend Sharp-Edged Appliances and Furniture

Sharps corners and hard surfaces are common household hazards that can easily be removed or corrected with a few design changes. This step is particularly important if you frequently have children in the home. If you'd rather keep the furniture or appliances that present a danger, consider padding the edges.

Finally, as a bonus tip, aside from making home security improvements through renovation you can also revise some of the home's decor to remove any easily breakable or potentially hazardous objects from the design scheme. As always, be sure to use your common sense and judgment when making any functional or aesthetic changes to your home.

The Rewards of Carpet Flooring

Homeowners all over the globe have made carpet their top choice when they are looking at the various flooring options available to them. It is regarded as a cost effective, versatile and stylish flooring option that appeals to a large demographic. Comfortable and colorful carpets can make your floors look brighter, refreshed and more welcoming. The designs and types that are available these days can fit within your existing home décor and also stay in your budget. Some of the types of carpet flooring that are available include area rugs, carpet squares and wall-to-wall carpets. Whether it is knotted, flat weave, tufted or woven, whatever type of carpet flooring you choose can offer you several rewards. Some of them are:

Provides Insulation and Warmth

You will know why homeowners prefer carpet flooring if you have ever walked barefoot on a cold floor during winter mornings. Carpets can offer you comfort and warmth, especially during the winter season. Carpets have millions of fibers between them, which trap the warmth and a solid layer of insulation is provided that can help you in resisting the uncomfortable and chilly weather thereby reducing your energy bills.

Provides Safety

A non-slip surface is provided by carpets, which means they prevent slips and cushion someone’s fall. This can minimize the injuries that occur because of a fall. The cushiony and soft structure of the carpet squares or area rugs is great for family activity. Carpet flooring can offer safety and protection to all members of the family, especially kids and the elderly.

Noise Reduction

Carpets are as easy on your ears as they are on your feet. Our homes have become noisy places because of music systems, home theatres, speaker phones and computers. Airborne sounds are absorbed by carpets and transmission of sounds between floors is also prevented by them. It reduces and stifles surface noise that occurs via walking.

Aesthetic Perks

Carpets are considered to be great decoration elements. It adds style and beauty to your room. As carpets are available in a wide range of textures, designs, colors and styles, you can choose one as per your home’s décor and taste. You can get simplicity and casualness through neutral colors and simple designs while patterned designs, vibrant colors and heavier textures allow you to make a bold statement.

Easy Maintenance

As compared to those in the past, you can now find carpets that are stain resistant. Furthermore, there are a number of carpet cleaning methods that you can use for keeping your carpets new. Professional carpet cleaning services are offered for removing stains, dust and other impunities.

Cost Effective

The most economical flooring option as opposed to others is carpet flooring. Choose a design that fits your style and budget as there is plenty of choice. Also, carpet flooring is highly durable so it can last for a long time. These benefits will convince you to get carpet flooring for your home and you can easily find a flooring service on hotfrog.co.nz to get it done.

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Increase Property Value And Enjoyment With Professional Garden Design

A well designed garden can enhance the enjoyment and use that you enjoy from your garden, and it can also offer a number of other benefits. Do you want to encourage your children to learn about gardening? Or do you want to become more self-sufficient by growing your own fruit and vegetables without the garden looking like a farm? Maybe you need to consider access for wheelchairs, are unsure of the best types of plant and tree for your soil, or you are trying to sell or rent out your property and want an attractive and functional outside space to make the property more appealing and increase resale or rental value.

With a professional garden design service, you can discuss your requirements and needs, set a budget, and enjoy access to a finished garden design that meets all of your needs. You can even enjoy experienced and reliable consultation with somebody that has experience in designing and maintaining any type of garden.

Implement Designs That You Want

When using a design service, they will offer advice and guidance, but it is ultimately your designs that will be turned into a finished design. If you want separate planting and seating areas, or a wild section to encourage wildlife and insects, then your designer will implement these requirements into the finished plan.

Unique Ideas And Concepts

Many people know that they want a garden in which they can relax, or one that is ideal for entertaining throughout the year, but may not know exactly how to achieve the best results. A designed that creates these types of garden for their clients will have the experience and knowledge to be able to suggest unique ideas and concepts that their clients would not have thought of. They understand the garden space, how certain designs and particular items interact with the garden area, and they can use this knowledge to your advantage.

Advice And Consultation

While your garden designer will listen to your requirements and your ideas, some are simply not practical or possible. Certain types of plants will not grow in particular soil types or in specific areas of a garden, while size, space, and even planning permission requirements may further dictate what you can and cannot implement in a garden design. An experienced designer will listen to your requirements, and advise on whether they are achievable.

Maintenance Plans And Advice

Some garden design services can offer regular maintenance plans, or they can create a garden that requires very minimal maintenance. In all cases, they will provide details of what will need doing and when, including details of treating and maintaining buildings and decking, as well as weeding and gardening.

Cost Considerations

You should set your budget as early as possible in the design consultation process. While it will cost you to use a garden designer, their contacts with other contractors like builders, pavers, and electricians, as well as their plant and design knowledge means that you could recoup the cost before the design is even implemented when compared to trying to go it alone.

The Garden Club London designs functional and attractive gardens, including rooftop and urban gardens. They offer free consultation to local clients and can help you achieve the type of garden design that you want.

5 HOME DÉCOR IMPROVEMENTS TO MAKE YOUR HOUSE SELL FAST

1) Consider first impressions

The old adage goes “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” Just as we make instant judgments on people, we also make them on properties. Go and stand outside your house. What do you see? If you notice dead plants, cracks in the paving and dusty window ledges, so will potential buyers. Have a bit of a clean up, and invest in some colourful, fresh plants and hanging baskets. A positive impression from the outside will mean viewers that are excited to come inside and see more.

2) Don’t be afraid to accessorise

There is no need to be afraid of accessorising, as long as it is done well. Sterile, showroom-style homes are unappealing to many, whereas a home that looks lived in offers a certain charm. This also helps viewers imagine living there themselves. Bookshelves, coffee tables, lamps and flowers are all fantastic touches. Just be careful not to do too much, or you run the risk over making the room look cluttered.

3) Be a master of disguise

If there are elements of your home on the more tired side, take steps to disguise them. For example, if your sofa has seen better days, invest in a new throw and selection of pillows. Choose subtle colours that compliment the room, so that the eye isn’t instantly drawn in that direction. Then put the emphasis on the stronger elements. For example, if you have a stunning dining table, make sure it is well-lit and easy to spot upon entering the room. Be sure to always see things from a non-biased perspective, and be prepared to see both the good and bad parts of your home. You can also ask for help from your estate agent if you need a fresh pair of eyes.

4) Leave the colouring in to the kids

One of the quickest ways to put off potential house-buyers is with vibrantly coloured walls. Walls painted entirely in bright yellows, oranges, pinks and greens will become the focus of the viewing, and not in a good way. Not only will they distract viewers from seeing the positives of your home, they will also prevent them from envisaging their own belongings in the room. Stick to neutral colours, like white, pale yellow, pale grey or beige. This brings the added benefit of creating the illusion of space and light.

5) Don’t overspend

A final thought. A designer chandelier in an affordable one-bed flat will look out of place. Always bear in mind the market price of your home. Furnishings and home decor should match accordingly.