Ten years ago when I began writing this column I did a total immersion in the world of production home building. In five days I visited more than 40 townhouse and single-family projects in both stand-alone subdivisions and planned communities spread out across the Northern Virginia suburbs.  more...

If your resolutions for 2005 include buying a house or condominium, whether it will be your first home or a move-up residence, today is a great time to plan for your purchase.

Home mortgage interest rates remain remarkably low and affordable. During this slowest time of the year for home sales in most communities, between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, this is a great time to start your quest for the near-perfect place to live. Here are five secrets to make your purchase easy and profitable:  more...