The U.S. economy grew at a surprisingly strong pace in the fourth quarter, mainly fueled by resilient consumer spending. However, the fourth quarter data from the GDP report suggests that inflation is cooling. The GDP price index rose 1.5% for the fourth quarter, down from a 3.3% increase in the third quarter. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, which… Read More ›

The NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS)—the premier, once-a-year event that connects, educates and improves the residential construction industry—is a hub for new product launches, construction demos, industry thought leader sessions, workshops, panel discussions…and more. The people, products and knowledge you’ll gain will give you the real ideas and real solutions you need to grow and strengthen your essential business. IBS 2024 will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, February 27-29.  If you haven’t already done so, you can register here.…

Tasked with creating a home large enough for a family of eight, this beautiful 11,000-plus-square-foot home is an architectural wonder. The home was designed to integrate and collaborate with the existing structures (e.g., boathouse, gatehouse) that were already part of this amazing property. Designed to capture natural light and lake views, extreme attention to detail was paid inside and out. When designing a house this large, it was very important to design the main- and lower-level spaces to accommodate large…

According to the January 2024 survey for the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, high interest rates were a significant issue for 90% of builders in 2023, and 77% expect them to be a problem in 2024. The second most widespread problem in 2023 was rising inflation in US Economy, cited by 83% of builders, with 52% expecting it to be… Read More ›

Nonfarm payroll employment increased in 39 states and the District of Columbia in December compared to the previous month, while 11 states saw a decrease. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nationwide total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 216,000 in December, following a gain of 173,000 jobs in November. On a month-over-month basis, employment data was most favorable in… Read More ›

The evolution of outdoor living spaces continues. Boldness of color and form stands out in both interiors and exteriors. Houses convey a more human scale. Wood is ascendant in interior trim and details. The streetscape has evolved into a form of art. Designers are reinterpreting what contemporary means. Urban infill pulls all elements of living together. Modular homes offer heightened design. The post 2007 BALA Trends first appeared on Best In American Living.

Pets can have a significant impact on home buying decisions for many people. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 2021 data shows that there are 63.8 million occupied housing units have at least one pet which represents almost 50% of the 128.5 million occupied housing units.  A recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Surveys examines the increase in household budget spent on pet-related expenses. In 2021, consumers spent more than $100 billion on pet-related expenses, far exceeding other categories such as women’s…

This New England-style home is where Saratoga Springs meets Nantucket and the Hamptons. At the heart of this bright and open floor plan is the expansive kitchen with its large island, dedicated pantry area, and plenty of coastal charm. As you enter the home, a welcoming foyer with custom millwork leads to a shiplap-lined hallway. The spacious living room with gas burning fireplace opens to the sunroom and patio to make entertaining easy. The first floor is complete with a…

The objective of this remodel in Orlando was to open the kitchen to the home’s stunning lake views and take full advantage of the outdoor lifestyle that Florida has to offer. The cabinet design provides ample hidden storage including a hidden computer station, hidden pantry with second refrigerator and storage beneath both islands. Perfect for entertaining, corner pocketing doors open the kitchen to the lanai. The rear wall of the kitchen is framed out with frosted glass to provide privacy…

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s latest estimates, the U.S. resident population grew by 1,643,484 to a total population of 334,914,895. The population growth rate reached its highest level since the pandemic at 0.49%. This is just above the 2019 growth rate (0.46%), while slightly below the 2018 growth rate (0.53%). The Census Bureau reports that the primary source for… Read More ›