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	<title>DirectBuy Home Improvement Blog &#187; Home Building</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/tag/home-building/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog</link>
	<description>The #1 way to buy direct for your home.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:57:23 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Understanding the Challenges of Building a Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/challenges-of-building-a-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/challenges-of-building-a-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Dec 2011 12:16:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Custom Built Homes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Construction]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=4147</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For many people, building their own home is a true dream. It signifies a time in their lives when they are able to commit to one location and spend time creating the perfect house to fit their specific needs.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Home-Building-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4066" title="Design Your Home to Any Style" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Home-Building-iS-300x199.jpg" alt="Design Your Home to Any Style" width="300" height="199" /></a>For many people, building their own home is a true dream. It signifies a time in their lives when they are able to commit to one location and spend time creating the perfect house to fit their specific needs.</p>
<p>As wonderful as a <a title="custom built home" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">custom built home</a> is, there are also many challenges that come with it. Here are just a few things to understand about home building before you consider it for yourself.</p>
<h3>Understanding the Finances</h3>
<p>Remember that home building is an expensive ordeal. Be sure that your financing will cover all of the final costs of the home, and that you can afford to pay the monthly payments. This is perhaps the hardest part of building a home.</p>
<h3>Understanding the Commitment</h3>
<p>Building a house involves much more than just writing a check every so often. Even if you have a general contractor take control of the project, there will still be plenty of decisions to make each and every day. Be prepared to spend most, if not all, of your free time researching home designs, appliances and furniture until you finally move in.</p>
<p>If you are prepared for the financial and time aspects of building a home, then congratulations! You can begin the process of building the home of your dreams.</p>
<p>When you’re looking for ways to make your home convenient and organized, <a href="../../">DirectBuy</a> has a wide range of top quality <a href="../../home-building.aspx">home building</a> and home improvement products to help you make it happen. From <a href="../../appliances.aspx">appliances</a> to <a href="http://www.directdiscountcabinets.com/garage-cabinets.aspx">storage</a> and much more, you can save up to 50% off retail prices.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.directhomediscount.com%2Fblog%2Fhome-building%2Fchallenges-of-building-a-home%2F&amp;title=Understanding+the+Challenges+of+Building+a+Home', 'addthis', 'scrollbars=yes,menubar=no,width=620,height=520,resizable=yes,toolbar=no,location=no,status=no'); return false;" title="Bookmark using any bookmark manager!" target="_blank"><img src="http://s3.addthis.com/button1-bm.gif" width="125" height="16" border="0" /></a></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Are You Ready to Build a Home?</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/build-a-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/build-a-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:36:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Building Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=4024</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For many people, owning a home is the pinnacle of success. Rather than leasing a residence from someone else, or living with roommates, you can have say over the entire house and build it to meet your exact specifications. This process of building a house, however, can be a long and arduous one.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Building-a-Home-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4037" title="Building a Home" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Building-a-Home-iS-300x199.jpg" alt="Building a Home in Your Own Style" width="300" height="199" /></a>For many people, owning a home is the pinnacle of success. Rather than leasing a residence from someone else, or living with roommates, you can have say over the entire house and build it to meet your exact specifications.</p>
<p>The process of <a title="building a house" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">building a house</a>; however, can be a long and arduous one. It should only be undertaken if you truly feel ready. Here are some ways to determine if you are ready for the home building process:</p>
<h3>Are Your Financially Prepared?</h3>
<p>The budget of building a house is long and complicated. Only begin the process if you are able to secure financing that will be reasonable for you to pay back. Prepare a list of all the expected costs, and add on an additional 10% to that to be on the safe side.</p>
<h3>Can You Handle the Time Commitment?</h3>
<p>Even if you have a contractor who will handle much of the day to day organization, there are still many decisions you will make personally, along with many hours of overseeing to make sure everything goes according to schedule.</p>
<p>If you can handle the financial expenses and the time commitment of home building, then congratulations! You can begin planning the home of your dreams.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy " href="../../" target="_blank">DirectBuy </a> has a wide array of <a title="home improvement " href="../../home-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">home improvement </a>products to help you in building your home.  Find top-of-the-line <a title="building materials" href="../../home-building.aspx" target="_blank">building materials</a>, <a title="appliances" href="../../appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> and virtually everything you need at up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>The Home Building Process</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/the-home-building-process/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/the-home-building-process/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Nov 2011 12:28:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Construction Walk Through]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[General Contractors]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3652</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For the homeowner that is having a home built, it is essential that the entire process and all aspects of the build are understood. Having this knowledge will help to ensure that the house is built according to plan and is done on time.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Home-Building-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4066" title="Design Your Home to Any Style" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Home-Building-iS-300x199.jpg" alt="Design Your Home to Any Style" width="300" height="199" /></a>For the homeowner that is having a home built, it is essential that the entire process and all aspects of the build are understood. Having this knowledge will help to ensure that the house is built according to plan and is done on time.</p>
<h3>Time Lines</h3>
<p>With any contractor, a <a title="home building project" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">home building project</a> will follow a basic timeline. A reputable builder will provide a schedule that includes descriptions as to what is being done each step of the way. This builder will also be able to finish on time unless there was some type of catastrophic event to delay the work.</p>
<h3>Walk-Throughs</h3>
<p>Several times during the building, there will generally be walk-throughs where the homeowners get to see the progress and talk with a contractor or representative from the building company. Make certain to have any concerns addressed at these times before the builder moves on to the next phase.</p>
<p>Even if you have no experience or knowledge about the home building process, it is still a great idea to walk through and check the progress of the new home. At the very least, it will be a good opportunity to get some pictures to chronicle the progress.</p>
<p>Home building is easy and budget friendly when you shop with <a title="DirectBuy" href="../../" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> where you will find all types of brand-name products to make your home environment more enjoyable – all at savings up to 50% off retail.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.directhomediscount.com%2Fblog%2Fhome-building%2Fthe-home-building-process%2F&amp;title=The+Home+Building+Process', 'addthis', 'scrollbars=yes,menubar=no,width=620,height=520,resizable=yes,toolbar=no,location=no,status=no'); return false;" title="Bookmark using any bookmark manager!" target="_blank"><img src="http://s3.addthis.com/button1-bm.gif" width="125" height="16" border="0" /></a></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>How to Budget for a Home Build</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/how-to-budget-for-a-home-build/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/how-to-budget-for-a-home-build/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:33:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Budget]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Planning to Build a Home]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3828</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A common expression when it comes to home building is that there are three major elements to it: quality, price and time--but you can't have all three. In other words, if you want a quick and quality build, you will have to pay a lot.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Home-Remodeling-iS.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3953" title="Home Remodeling" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Home-Remodeling-iS.jpg" alt="How to Budget When Remodeling Your Home" width="335" height="222" /></a>A common expression when it comes to home building is that there are three major elements to it: quality, price and time&#8211;but you can&#8217;t have all three. In other words, if you want a quick and quality build, you will have to pay a lot. Or, if you want a quick and cheap build, you have to sacrifice quality.</p>
<p>This guide should help you to see that with the right budgeting, you can save money on your build without sacrificing a thing.</p>
<h3>Extensive Planning</h3>
<p>While it can get overwhelming writing down every single detail of the build, it is not a step to be skipped. Start with the foundation or dirt pad, and go all the way to the curtain prices. This way, you won&#8217;t ever be surprised about a step you didn&#8217;t budget for.</p>
<h3>Allow Yourself Room for Error</h3>
<p>If you expect your home building to cost a certain price, add on 10% to be safe. The same goes for time, if you have an expected deadline add on a few weeks so you won&#8217;t be disappointed at a later finish date, which can be quite common.</p>
<p>By creating an extensive budget list and allowing yourself some room for extra costs, you can create a reasonable budget for your future home build.  For most everything you need for your new home from <a href="../../appliances-v3.aspx">appliances</a> to <a href="../../home-furnishings.aspx">furniture</a> and <a href="../../flooring.aspx">flooring</a> to <a href="../../entertainment.aspx">home entertainment equipment</a> of all types and more, discover the savings at DirectBuy where you can save up to 50% off retail prices on brand-name products for your home.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.directhomediscount.com%2Fblog%2Fhome-building%2Fhow-to-budget-for-a-home-build%2F&amp;title=How+to+Budget+for+a+Home+Build', 'addthis', 'scrollbars=yes,menubar=no,width=620,height=520,resizable=yes,toolbar=no,location=no,status=no'); return false;" title="Bookmark using any bookmark manager!" target="_blank"><img src="http://s3.addthis.com/button1-bm.gif" width="125" height="16" border="0" /></a></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Can You Build Your Own Home?</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/can-you-build-your-own-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/can-you-build-your-own-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:14:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Direct Buy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Buying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Redecorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3698</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you are ready to become a homeowner, you will need to decide between purchasing your own home and building one for yourself. Of course, building your own home will be more time consuming and often more expensive, but the rewards might be worth it. 
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/home-construction.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3337" title="Home Builder" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/home-construction.jpg" alt="A general contractor is ideal to have for home building." width="283" height="424" /></a>When you are ready to become a homeowner, you will need to decide between purchasing your own home and building one for yourself. Of course, <a title="building" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">building</a> your own home will be more time consuming and often more expensive, but the rewards might be worth it.</p>
<p>Here are some questions to ask yourself if you are considering home building in the future:</p>
<h3>Can You Afford it?</h3>
<p>Just like when buying a home, you can obtain financial assistance or loans for building a home. However, a brand new personalized home will likely be more expensive than the same home ready made and a few year older. Ask yourself if you have the budget necessary for this endeavor.</p>
<h3>Do You Have Deadlines?</h3>
<p>While buying a home is not an instant process, it take significantly less time than building your own. Ask yourself if you have up to a year to finalize plans, organize a contractor and build the home before you are able to move in.</p>
<h3>Do You Have Free Time?</h3>
<p>Building a home will require a lot of time on your part. Even with a general contractor, there are decisions that need to be made and some overseeing required.</p>
<p>Building a new home is quite the process.  However, you will be able to pick exactly what you want in design, style, and decor.  Have all the elements you want in a home by building your own.</p>
<p>For most everything you need for your home from <a href="../../appliances-v3.aspx">appliances</a> to <a href="../../home-furnishings.aspx">furniture</a> and <a href="../../flooring.aspx">flooring</a> to <a href="../../entertainment.aspx">home entertainment equipment</a> of all types and more. Discover the savings at DirectBuy where you can save up to 50% off retail prices on brand-name products for your home.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.directhomediscount.com%2Fblog%2Fhome-building%2Fcan-you-build-your-own-home%2F&amp;title=Can+You+Build+Your+Own+Home%3F', 'addthis', 'scrollbars=yes,menubar=no,width=620,height=520,resizable=yes,toolbar=no,location=no,status=no'); return false;" title="Bookmark using any bookmark manager!" target="_blank"><img src="http://s3.addthis.com/button1-bm.gif" width="125" height="16" border="0" /></a></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Tips for Green Home Building</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/tips-for-green-home-building/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/tips-for-green-home-building/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Sep 2011 15:44:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cabinets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Energy Star Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Environmentally Friendly Home Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Green Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reclaimed Wood]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3577</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you are planning on building a new house in the near future, you might benefit from utilizing green home building practices. Not only will it save you money, whether now or in the long run, but the environment will also benefit from your green choices.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/energy-star-rated-refrigerator.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3578" title="Energy Star-Rated Refrigerator" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/energy-star-rated-refrigerator.jpg" alt="" width="237" height="298" /></a>If you are planning on building a new house in the near future, you might benefit from utilizing <a title="green home building" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">green home building </a>practices. Not only will it save you money, whether now or in the long run, but the environment will also benefit from your green choices. Try these two tips for green building.</p>
<h3>Using Reclaimed Wood</h3>
<p>Reclaimed wood is any type of wood that was previously used in another application, whether as support beams in an old house or cabinets in a commercial building that is no longer in business. Reclaimed wood can be used as <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a>, wainscoting, <a title="cabinets" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/cabinets.aspx" target="_blank">cabinets</a>, and more.</p>
<h3>Choosing Energy-Efficient Appliances</h3>
<p>There are very few <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> on the market today that are not energy-efficient. They do not cost much more to buy initially, but in the long run, they will actually save you money on energy bills. You can find energy-efficient appliances by looking for the Energy Star logo or asking a salesperson for help.</p>
<p>Green home building is a smart choice in today&#8217;s world. By following green practices, you are helping to save resources, save your money, and to protect your family&#8217;s health. Begin by using reclaimed wood and choosing energy-efficient appliances for your new home.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="../../" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of brand-name products to help you create a comfortable and environmentally-friendly home. You can purchase <a title="appliances" href="../../appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> , <a title="furniture" href="../../home-furnishings.aspx" target="_blank">furniture</a> , <a title="flooring" href="../../flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a> and more at wholesale prices that will save up to 50% off retail.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.directhomediscount.com%2Fblog%2Fhome-building%2Ftips-for-green-home-building%2F&amp;title=Tips+for+Green+Home+Building', 'addthis', 'scrollbars=yes,menubar=no,width=620,height=520,resizable=yes,toolbar=no,location=no,status=no'); return false;" title="Bookmark using any bookmark manager!" target="_blank"><img src="http://s3.addthis.com/button1-bm.gif" width="125" height="16" border="0" /></a></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Joy of Home Building</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/the-joy-of-home-building/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/the-joy-of-home-building/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:24:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Construction]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3514</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Embarking on a home building project can be a big moment in one's life. It can mean making style and design decisions that will be a part of life for many years.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/home-construction.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-3337" title="Home Builder" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/home-construction-200x300.jpg" alt="A general contractor is ideal to have for home building." width="200" height="300" /></a>Embarking on a <a title="home building" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">home building</a> project can be a big moment in one&#8217;s life. It can mean making <a title="style and design" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">style and design</a> decisions that will be a part of life for many years.</p>
<h3>Build a House, Create a Home</h3>
<p>The immense rewards of creating a home perfectly suited to your lifestyle only begin with planning to construct a house. Contacting a builder or contractor is a stepping stone to a new life in a tailor-made home. It&#8217;s only a house until it&#8217;s home to the loving warmth of your family.</p>
<h3>Warm From the Heart, Not the Furnace</h3>
<p>While the details of layout and construction materials are important aspects of home building, the reasons behind such choices are what matter. Take into consideration if children or pets are going to live in the space and plan accordingly. While white <a title="carpeting" href="http://www.directdiscountcarpet.com/" target="_blank">carpeting</a> may be appealing to a couple of young newly weds, a more subtle shade could be a better choice for beginning a family.</p>
<p>Creating a welcoming and comfortable home is a wonderful process and takes time. Avoid stressing out over the details by considering things in a long-term mind frame. What&#8217;s appealing and fashionable today may not be so inviting in the years to come. Taking the time to plan ahead will ensure lasting enjoyment of the construction and creation of a home.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="../../" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers  brand-name products for any room in your home –<a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a>, <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a>, <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a>, <a title="kitchen cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/" target="_blank">kitchen cabinets</a> and more – all at savings of up to 50% off retail.</p>
<div><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php" onclick="window.open('http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?pub=&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.directhomediscount.com%2Fblog%2Fhome-building%2Fthe-joy-of-home-building%2F&amp;title=The+Joy+of+Home+Building', 'addthis', 'scrollbars=yes,menubar=no,width=620,height=520,resizable=yes,toolbar=no,location=no,status=no'); return false;" title="Bookmark using any bookmark manager!" target="_blank"><img src="http://s3.addthis.com/button1-bm.gif" width="125" height="16" border="0" /></a></div>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Choosing The Right Look For You And Your New Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/choosing-the-right-look-for-you-and-your-new-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/choosing-the-right-look-for-you-and-your-new-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jul 2011 12:32:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Accent Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bathroom Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bedroom Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Carpet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dining Room Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Decor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Furnishings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Office Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Living Room Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3380</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Anyone who has built or remodeled a family home is well acquainted with the stress and time consumption involved. Making sure the job is done correctly the first time not only will make this time easier on the home owner, but will help ensure that they are pleased with the end result of their hard work.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/casual-living-room-s.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-978" title="casual-living-room" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/casual-living-room-s.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="176" /></a>Anyone who has <a title="built" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">built</a> or <a title="remodeled" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">remodeled</a> a family home is well acquainted with the stress and time consumption involved. Making sure the job is done correctly the first time not only will make this time easier on the home owner, but will help ensure that they are pleased with the end result of their hard work.</p>
<h3>Choosing The Correct Appliances</h3>
<p>Undoubtedly, one entertaining aspect of remodeling a home is choosing new items for family use. Home <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/appliances.aspx">appliances</a> are a major purchase and should be considered carefully before a final decision is made.</p>
<p>Choosing <a title="kitchen items" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/kitchen-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen items</a> that fit your new decor as well as your family lifestyle needs is an important factor in your happiness with the result.</p>
<h3>Creating A Look For Your New Home</h3>
<p>Deciding on an overall look for your new home starts with deciding what design style suits you and your lifestyle best. Whether your choice is modern, rustic, traditional or somewhere in between, the style you choose will reflect your good taste and style.</p>
<p>Your home is an extension of yourself and creating a haven for yourself and your family to enjoy for years to come is easy when you purchase items that fit together in harmony.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="../../" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of brand-name products to help you create a comfortable, enjoyable environment in your home. You can purchase <a title="appliances" href="../../appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> , <a title="furniture" href="../../home-furnishings.aspx" target="_blank">furniture</a> , <a title="flooring" href="../../flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a> and more at wholesale prices that will save up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Building Your Own Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/building-your-own-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/building-your-own-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:58:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Direct Buy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Residential General Contractors]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=3335</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you've always wanted to build your own home but didn't think you could handle the pressure, there are many things you can do to make your home building experience less stressful.  Out of that long list, there are few more important than picking the right general contractor or sub contractor.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/home-construction.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-3337" title="Home Builder" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/home-construction-200x300.jpg" alt="A general contractor is ideal to have for home building." width="200" height="300" /></a>If you&#8217;ve always wanted to build your own home but didn&#8217;t think you could handle the pressure, there are many things you can do to make your <a title="home building" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-building.aspx" target="_blank">home building</a> experience less stressful.  Out of that long list, there are few more important than picking the right general contractor or sub contractor.</p>
<p>The following will give an overall description of each.  Make your selection carefully and always get referrals or Better Business Bureau rankings.</p>
<h3><strong>General Contractor</strong></h3>
<p>A general contractor is simply someone who oversees the overall process of home building. While having a general contractor is ideal, more and more people are choosing to do their own general contracting.</p>
<p>Being your own general contractor can save you a lot of money and could potentially allow you to build a house that you would otherwise be unable to afford. Only you can decide whether you&#8217;re ready to take on such a commitment. The best thing you can do is to research the job thoroughly before deciding.</p>
<h3>Sub-Contractors</h3>
<p>Sub-contractors are the people you hire for specific jobs like installing plumbing or hanging drywall. It would be your job, or the job of your general contractor, to make sure the sub-contractors are doing their jobs properly and completing them on time and in the correct order.</p>
<p>Building your own home can be a rewarding experience. It&#8217;s up to you to decide whether or not you&#8217;d like to take a more active role in the process.  Just remember to gather all the information you can about your general contractor or sub contractor selections before you sign on the dotted line.</p>
<p>For most everything you need for your new home from <a href="../../appliances-v3.aspx">appliances</a> to <a href="../../home-furnishings.aspx">furniture</a> and <a href="../../flooring.aspx">flooring</a> to <a href="../../entertainment.aspx">home entertainment equipment</a> of all types and more, discover the savings at DirectBuy where you can save up to 50% off retail prices on brand-name products for your home.</p>
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		<title>Be a Smart Shopper When it Comes to Home Building</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/home-building-tips/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/home-building-tips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:15:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Direct Buy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Cabinets]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=2614</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There’s a lot of shopping involved when it comes to building a new home and furnishing it.  But the first step in any successful home remodel is to find the right contractor.  Running up on the wrong one can turn your dream home into a nightmare experience. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There’s a lot of shopping involved when it comes to building a new home and furnishing it.  But the first step in any successful home remodel is to find the right contractor.  Running up on the wrong one can turn your dream home into a nightmare experience.</p>
<h3>Check Out Your Home Contractor</h3>
<p>Take suggestions from others, but be sure to do your own checking.  Once you have come up with a list of possible contractors, check them out with the local Better Business Bureau.  Ask for references and most qualified contractors will have some sort of portfolio of their previous work.</p>
<p>You will probably be spending a lot of your hard-earned money with the general contractor.  Do all the necessary shopping around to ensure you get a qualified and reputable contractor to build your new home.</p>
<p>DirectBuy offers a wide selection of brand-name home building and home remodeling products to help you create a beautiful home inside and out. Savings up to 50% off on <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> , <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a> , <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a> , <a title="kitchen cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/" target="_blank">kitchen cabinets</a> and more will help you stay within your budget.</p>
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		<title>Smart Home Building</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/smart-home-building/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/smart-home-building/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2008 19:51:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=251</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Home building is a huge investment and involves many important decisions. Making a plan that incorporates allowing for unforseen factors is advisable. Find out more about smart home building.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Home building costs involve large sums of money, in addition to what you’ve spent on purchasing land. This is why long before you build your home, gathering comprehensive information about home building will prove immensely useful in the long run.<br />
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-259" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" title="contem-img1" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/contem-img1.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="151" /></p>
<p>There are numerous factors that contribute to home building costs, many of which can, or cannot, be controlled. For example, an increase in building material costs, at any time during construction, a sudden supply shortage, or a sub-contractor opting out.</p>
<p>Unforeseen circumstances are usually the most common cause of cost overruns; therefore, it is advisable to set aside a contingency budget of approximately 5-10% to meet any additional expense you may face.</p>
<p>Look for more helpful information for <em>Smart Home Building</em> in upcoming articles.</p>
<p>When you’re ready to <a title="build a new home " href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">build a new home </a>or <a title="remodel" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">remodel</a> your current home, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> can help. You’ll find top quality products at manufacturer-direct prices.</p>
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		<title>Marble: Add A Layer of Pure Sophistication To Your Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/tile/marble-for-your-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/tile/marble-for-your-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:09:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marble]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=159</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Choosing marble for various applications when you're remodeling or building is not beyond your reach. Marble is a versitile stone that works well in many areas of your home, and at DirectBUy you can find top-quality marble at manufacturer-direct wholesale prices.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From ancient times until present beautiful fountains, sculptures and majestic buildings have been created<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-160" style="margin: 5px 7px;" title="marble-tile" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/marble-tile.jpg" alt="" width="206" height="181" /> with one amazing material – marble. Nothing adds a layer of sophistication like marble.</p>
<p>But today’s marble is not out of reach for the average homeowner. There are many options for working marble into your design. In many sizes, shapes and finishes, marble can add the look you want in your bathroom, kitchen or other areas of your home.</p>
<p>Marble is suitable for so many applications in your home  – walls, table tops, floors, vanity tops and more.  You will also find marble perfect for applications in we areas such as showers and tub decks.</p>
<p>An important consideration when thinking about using marble is that it is highly susceptible to damage from acids such as vinegar and citrus fruits. Dull marks and rings can result from acidic contact on marble, For this reason granite or quartz would be better choices for countertops.</p>
<p>You can choose various finishes for your marble &#8211; polished, honed, and antiqued – and the great thing about marble is how well it fits into any area of your home. You can create an understated look of elegance with a casual tone, or you can go with the full sophisticated effect with a more formal tone. The choice is yours with beautiful, versatile marble whether you&#8217;re <a title="building or remodeling your home" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">building or remodeling your home</a>.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> carries <a title="marble and other natural stones " href="http://www.discounttiledirect.com/" target="_blank">marble and other natural stones </a>to help you create the design and atmosphere you want for your home. With manufacturer-direct prices from leading manufacturers and authorized suppliers of top-quality marble, you can create the home of your dreams.</p>
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