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New Year's Eve Events in Portland, Oregon

Monday, December 30, 2013
by Rob Levy

Now that Santa is back at his chalet in the North Pole, it's time to decide how you are going to ring in the New Year. There are so many New Year’s Eve events happening here in Portland, Oregon that you’re sure to have a good time!

Below is a list of some of the festivities available. You can check out more at PDX Pipeline.

Have a great New Year's and be sure to play it safe when considering driving!

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Tips on Budgeting a Home Renovation

Monday, December 16, 2013
by Rob Levy

Fixing up your home is a great way to improve your property's resale value as well as make it just the way you and your family want it. However, home renovation projects can quickly get out of hand and cost more than expected if you're not careful. Below are a few ideas to keep your home remodeling efforts from breaking the family budget.

1. Add 20 percent for contingencies. "This Old House" magazine advises homeowners to budget an extra 20 percent over and what they think their remodeling project will cost. This allows for contractors underestimating the time or supplies needed, additional renovation needed that wasn't anticipated before you started, and price increases on supplies, just to name a few items that could happen on a remodeling project.

2. Be realistic about what you can do yourself. Doing a lot of the labor yourself can save you a considerable amount of money, but it's important to be realistic. If you've never put down tile or hung cabinets, you don't want to learn on your own home project. You'll have to live with the results for years. Plus, no matter how skilled you are at DIY projects, it's wise to hire licensed professionals for wiring, plumbing and HVAC work. How does this save money? You don't want to have to hire a professional to redo your work when you realize you're in over your head.

3. Don't discount salvage stores. If you own a Victorian or other distinctive period home, make sure to scour the salvage stores for unique and affordable building items like doors, woodwork, moldings and more. You'll save money, you'll be keeping these items from America's landfills and, best of all, you'll be adding a vintage piece of American craftsmanship in your home.

4. Do your own delivery. You can save quite a bit of money on delivery charges plus make sure that your building materials are where you need them when you need them by picking them up yourself.

Home remodeling projects can be fun and exciting. With a little careful planning, they can also stay within the budget.

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