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Mold warranty not required for new-home construction

By Barry Stone, Monday, June 12, 2006.

Dear Barry,

We are currently having a house built and became concerned when we noticed mold on some of the roof rafters. When we pointed this out to the builders, they had the wood surfaces professionally cleaned and chemically treated. But then we asked them for a warranty to cover future mold, and that's where they drew the line. They flatly refused. Should we insist that they provide a warranty in case any mold returns, or is that an unreasonable demand?  more...

100 best towns to raise a family

By Robert Bruss, Monday, June 12, 2006.

If you can move any place in the United States to raise your family, first read "Best Places to Raise Your Family," by Bert Sperling and Peter Sander. This unique book reveals the top 100 best towns for families, based primarily on standard of living, education, lifestyle, and health and safety considerations.

However, if you think you will find the perfect place for families, you will be disappointed. Even Sperling and Sander admit, "There is no perfect place," that appeals to everyone.  more...

Recourse limited against last-minute home-loan fees

By Robert Bruss, Monday, June 12, 2006.

DEAR BOB: I recently sold my home. The buyers made it known they needed 100 percent mortgage financing. We agreed to pay $13,000 in closing costs to help the buyers. The lender gave them a so-called "good faith estimate" that showed this amount would pay their closing costs. But on the day of closing, the loan officer showed up and informed the buyers they owed $4,000 more than expected to buy the home. He was very clear the lender had just raised the fees to make more profit. The buyers didn't have the $4,000. Everyone felt helpless.  more...