Sunday, January 4, 2009
Frank: Make good S.E.N.S.E. in the new year We may not be able to do much about the economy, but we can control our own homes. We can improve our own personal environment by making decisions about how we will live. Frank Fontana offers five tips that make good sense.
Some free advice for 2009Column: From cleaning up clutter to sponsoring employer-assisted housing, 2009 just may spark some needed changes.
What to do about noisy washing machine Q. Our washing machine has started making a lot of noise. At first, I thought it was the size of the loads, so I cut them down to a smaller size. But that didn't help. What can I do to fix this washing machine? I can't afford to replace it. Can you help?
Is Churchill letter authentic? Some aspects of this letter from Winston Churchill appear authentic, while others do not. A specialist can determine if this letter is worth thousands of dollars.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Check out that contractor before you sign When work is slow, some contractors will bid on jobs that are outside their area of expertise. They may also let insurance policies lapse, or fail to pay their subs. For all these reasons, check out your contractor with extra care before you sign.
Rock stars in your home Designers and retailers are adding pebble and rock motifs to accessories, rugs, wall coverings and even lamps.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The seductive scent of jasmine
Lion in winter
Stay warm but safe with space heaters
Stone floors need protection
Stein toasts 'patron saint of beer'
Things to do
Looking up: tips on selling home
Friday, December 26, 2008
Apartments earn 'Property Excellence' awards
Winter garden for the birds
Sellers clinch deal by paying closing costs
'Friend of Industry' a good listener
Art Deco a perennial favorite
Treat guests to hotel-like luxuries
Protect pipes against frigid weather
Sunday, December 21, 2008
What is it like to live in Santa Claus, Indiana?
Lending standards out of step
Last minute gift ideas from Frank
Yearn to learn about ferns?
Holiday decs -better late than never
How to get your mortgage modified
Creative Christmas trees - last-minute ideas
Vase not antique but still valuable
Garlands always a good way to go
Towns where it's Christmas all year
What's in a name? Christmas spirit
Friday, December 19, 2008
Incentives help buyers find their place in Chicago
Nation's ugliest house is on South Side
Area rugs - Style is underfoot
City neighborhood programs
Cast some light on that winter gloom
Gift suggestions for handy types
Corner cutters for fast cleaning
How to prolong poinsettia's color
Thick Styrofoam can insulate cathedral ceiling
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Fed rate slash - what it means
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Home theaters not just for the rich
Suburbs to age ungracefully?
Selling strategy during holidays
Bromeliad noted for sharp tips
Sadness, mystery in Civil War pastel
Bedrooms double as retreats
Behold the friendly begonia
How to choose the best screen
Gifts from the heart cost a little creativity
Friday, December 12, 2008
Condos: Read fine print before you buy
Black and chartreuse for Christmas
Garden gift books for all skill levels
Noisy pipes an all-night serenade
Spring-loaded damper stops heat loss
Stylish stainless steel kitchens
Room for family dinners in dining room
Thursday, December 11, 2008
'Burbs will turn silver by '30
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
New group pushes housing recovery plan
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Awards: In praise of historic bungalows
Deck the halls yourself with homemade treasure
$20,000 grants to buy home in city
Hip, new tree ornaments reflect larger trends
Designers ask: What's your style?
Vintage Perlberg dress stored in awful spot
By golly, holly looks lovely in snow
How to plan and buy drapes
Decorate Christmas tree like a pro
And the bungalow winners are....