Site mixes home improvement, politics

Do you have questions about tax incentives, rebates, the latest real estate sales trends, or how to avoid real estate scammers?

In November, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) launched HouseLogic.com, which offers information ranging from home maintenance and remodeling to pressing political issues that could influence your home's value.

The site provides detailed cost breakdowns, step-by-step guides, and the ability to create your own "house binder" of the articles and items that are most relevant for you and your home.

1. HouseLogic basics
If you are thinking about doing a bathroom remodel, you can click on the "remodel" tab in the toolbar. The site provides information on how much the improvements will cost as well as how much you can expect to gain in additional value to your home.

In the case of "Remodeling a Bathroom the Green Way," this remodel will add between $11,600 and $37,400 in value. It will take two to three months (including planning). The actual cost will range between $15,900 and $51,500. You can add this project to your binder, where you can also track your progress.

In addition, there are articles about how to choose a low-flow toilet, whether it pays to replace your hot water heater, as well as suggestions for choosing a low-flow showerhead. The site also provides places for people who have completed projects to share their experiences and discuss them online.

2. Maintenance tips
There are articles on "How to Eliminate Mold from Your Home" as well as "How to Find and Prevent Fires in Your Home," plus numerous other articles on keeping your property in the best possible condition.

3. Engage
HouseLogic invites its users to become more engaged in their communities. Ways to engage your community include "Seven Holiday Events that Better Your Community," how to "Improve the Infrastructure of Your Community," as well as how to "Set Up a Neighborhood Watch." They also provide articles on topics such as how to deal with speeders, tips for writing letters that can change your hometown and suggestions on how to lessen the environmental impact of your community. ...CONTINUED

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