Real Estate
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Truth in Lending reforms need new overseerSep 12, 2009 11:00 pm - The Federal Reserve Board has finally released its proposals for reforming the Truth in Lending Act. It comes right in the middle of a debate over whether a single consu...
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Dust, rather than mold, likely cause of stained cathedral ceilingsSep 12, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I hope you can shed some light on the source of black lines on my cathedral ceilings. I have been told that it's from condensation built up in the attic. All the room...
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Act early to modify mortgage, protect your credit scoreSep 10, 2009 11:00 pm - WASHINGTON - When you do a short sale of a house, or modify the mortgage, is there much of an impact on your credit score? What if you walk away from the mortgage altoge...
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Economy creates subtle trends in what appeals to homebuyersSep 10, 2009 11:00 pm - As the Fall Home Show gets underway, builders unveil new models, update current plans, offer more choices and options - all incentives to attract new home buyers. Some b...
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Still time for buyers to claim $8,000 tax creditSep 10, 2009 11:00 pm - It's getting down to the wire. First-time homebuyers must close before midnight Nov. 30 to qualify for the $8,000 federal tax credit, an incentive that has people scramb...
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Thermostat location can be an issueSep 05, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. We recently had an energy audit performed on our home. Among other recommendations, the auditor suggested that we move our thermostat from our living room, which face...
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Cosigning a mortgage is asking for troubleSep 05, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I'm looking at going into a loan as the "co-borrower." What does this mean in terms of my legal claim to the property when we decide to sell? A. Not a thing. Ta...
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Chicago Luxury Home Tour reveals best that builders offerSep 05, 2009 11:00 pm - This month, 17 of the area's most sought-after custom builders invite you to visit their multimillion-dollar dream homes during the Chicago Luxury Home Tour. The homes ...
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Living trust is an easy way to formalize a parent's wishesSep 05, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. My mom has owned her home for more than 40 years. She is 85 years old and her home is basically her only asset. She wants her home to go to her three children when sh...
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Inspectors disagree about aluminum wiringSep 05, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. My home has aluminum wiring. In one of your articles, you recommended copper pigtails on the wire ends to eliminate a fire hazard. So I called my local building depar...