Land Development Handbook (Handbook)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • A good guide from start to finish
  • Learn a lot
  • very good all-around reference
  • Difficult to follow!
  • A Must Have Pub
Land Development Handbook (Handbook)
The Dewberry Companies
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Professional
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0071375252

Book Description

Successfully navigate the confusing maze of land development

If you're looking for cutting-edge blockbuster coverage of the land development process, the search ends here! Written by one of the nation's premier consulting firms, this new edition delivers up-to-date coverage of planning, engineering, and surveying . . . all with over 700 illustrations, including diagrams, detailed drawings, plats, and reports generated at the various design stages, as well as charts, tables, and more.

This edition includes regulatory changes; new data on open space areas for landscape architects; coverage of the latest advances in GPS and GIS technology; new perspectives on urban growth; and updated case studies, plans, and details. You'll find a thorough description of the design and approval process for residential, commercial, and retail land development projects and access to valuable bottom-line information on:


* Environmental issues, including erosion and sediment control, storm water management, environmental impact studies and assessments, and water quality
* Types of local regulations; where to get necessary project approval; what to expect during the process
* Site analysis and selection criteria for feasibility studies
* Technical information on the design of suburban infrastructure components such as water treatment and supply systems, sanitary sewer systems, storm drain systems, and roads
* The complete spectrum of surveying methods, including Global Positioning System Surveys and Geographic Information Systems

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A good guide from start to finish .......2007-07-24

As a general civil engineer in private practice this book has provided a good overview on the more abstract side of land development including financing, rezoning, and public involvement. All of which, are topics that typical engineers strugle with as it is not the enjoyable aspect of what engineers are trained to do. Nevertheless, these abstract components are just as real as the plans we develop. Of course, the book is excellent for hands on design and calculation support.

5 out of 5 stars Learn a lot.......2007-05-13

As a novice developer, this book put me on the right track without all the confusion and terms I would have never understood. It was simple to understand and after reading it, I felt like I knew a lot more. Very interesting and satisfying. Great reference guide all the way around.

5 out of 5 stars very good all-around reference.......2004-03-01

I primarily work as a structural-architectural engineer and am becoming more and more involved in civil-site work. This handbook is exactly what I was looking for in terms of something that would quickly get me "up to speed" in the fundamentals of civil-site design.
Of course, no single book could (or should) be thought of as a substitute for the experience and mentoring received from seasoned professionals in a design office, but this one has enough technical explanation and details to get you going with confidence.
I choose this one over the Colley book (reviewed both before making purchase) as Land Development Handbook has more of the technical info that engineers would seek.

1 out of 5 stars Difficult to follow!.......2003-12-16

I am in a class at Community College of Baltimore County and we are using this book at this time. Our whole class along with the Professor find this book to be very difficult to follow. The book constantly repeats itself making it extremely boring to read and is not fluent at all. They have examples that reference charts that are 3-5 pages apart from the problem being discussed the formulas you almost have to figure out for yourself how they are used and there are alot of typos.
I recomend burning this book!!!!!!!

5 out of 5 stars A Must Have Pub.......2002-07-04

Ever since I purchased this publication I can't stop using it. Every civil engineer should have this as part of their reference library, regardless of your area of specialty. It provides macro to micro scale explanations of general processes, design applications, etc in a very readable format. More times than I can remember I have looked to this book for an answer or at least for some guidance and was throuroughly satisfied. No it is not a definitive reference for civil engineers but its' breadth and usability overshadows any technical shortcomings. If I had to have just one reference book for my area of practice (general civil), this would be it. Yeah, yeah, the "Standard Handbook for Civil Engineers" is a more definitive reference, but I usually find out what I need in this pub.

ps - Almost everyone of my fellow employees that has used the book has purchased their own, find someone you know who has a copy and check it out for yourself.
The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair: With 350 Projects and 2300 Photos (Black & Decker)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Outstanding guide
  • Great Book
  • Never Received
  • Home Repair
  • Good book
The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair: With 350 Projects and 2300 Photos (Black & Decker)

Manufacturer: Creative Publishing International
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1589231813

Amazon.com

Got a problem with grout? Open The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair (to page 98) and watch your tiling worries dissolve before the simple beauty of photography. Black & Decker has anticipated your every question and problem with interior, exterior, and home systems repairs, and detailed the solutions in just over 500 pages. In no other human endeavor is a visual guide so important as home repair (well, maybe brain surgery), so this is a crucial aid to the handyperson. Easy-to-find sections on floors, insulation, roofing, chimneys, water heaters, wall switches, air conditioning, and much more are well-designed, brilliantly illustrated, and carefully outlined with step-by-step instructions from masters. The photos in particular are extremely valuable, offering many different views (sometimes even exploded) of the operation in question, and always showing just enough to communicate without overwhelming the reader with too much detail. These alone would be worth the price of the book, but the written explanations and instructions are also very helpful, offering tools, materials lists, and hints that wouldn't occur to the amateur. The book finishes with a maintenance schedule to help you keep repairs from becoming serious, and the end papers have conversion charts and tables that you'll use time and again. If you can't have Norm the master carpenter over to help you fix your old house, The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair is the next best thing. --Rob Lightner

Book Description

The new edition of the best-selling home repair classic. The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair is the most up-to-date, complete, and useful guide to home repair a homeowner can have. - Now 600 pages! - 500 more photographs! - 100 new and updated projects! - Still only $34.95! Now expanded to 600 pages, The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair includes these new chapters: - Choosing Using Tools - Workshop Reference - Home Health, Safety Security

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Outstanding guide.......2007-09-13

I'm in the process of looking for my first home, and I bought this book knowing that I'd need to do repairs as a homeowner. I got more than I had asked for. The text is very clear, and the pictures are precise and thorough.
Not only do I feel more prepared to make my own home repairs after this book, but it has also helped me to spot problem areas within the homes I've looked at. If you're looking for one book that's got it all, BUY THIS BOOK!

5 out of 5 stars Great Book.......2007-07-22

Absolutely wonderful book with endless projects. I have yet to do a project that was not in this book. It is like an unabridged dictionary for home repair.

1 out of 5 stars Never Received.......2007-05-28

This product was never delivered so I am very upset. I was charged for it but it was never delivered so I have to say I am very, very angry at Amazon for this inconvenience - especially since it was ordered as a gift for a very special person.

4 out of 5 stars Home Repair.......2007-05-07

This is a good book for those do-it-yourselfers that like photos with their instructions. It covers a wide variety of general repairs and would be good for a novice to home repair

4 out of 5 stars Good book.......2007-05-02

Its a great book to give you ideas for how to fix things or how to make general home improvements.
Concrete Countertops: Design, Form, and Finishes for the New Kitchen and Bath
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Concrete Countertops
  • GOOD STARTING PLACE FOR A BEGINNER
  • Great intro to concrete design
  • Concrete countertop book
  • Informative but not comprehensive
Concrete Countertops: Design, Form, and Finishes for the New Kitchen and Bath
Fu-Tung Cheng , and Eric Olsen
Manufacturer: Taunton
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1561584843
Release Date: 2002-04-15

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Concrete Countertops.......2007-05-28

This is one great book! Very informative. My husband is now in the process of changing our old countertops to new "concrete"ones. I can't wait to see them done and installed.

4 out of 5 stars GOOD STARTING PLACE FOR A BEGINNER.......2007-04-05

Thank you for this book. I am an absolute beginner and I have done two countertops that have come out pretty good for my friends just by following the instructions in this book. It is a good book to start you on the correct path but you need to do some added research on the net to get additional info especially when you live in a third world country and all the materials are not readily available. Good book...you can buy it.

4 out of 5 stars Great intro to concrete design.......2007-02-13

This book offers a great introduction to the flexiblity of using concrete in a home - for floors, kithens, walls, etc - and provides beautiful photographs of examples concrete use in contemporary homes.

Alan Safani

5 out of 5 stars Concrete countertop book.......2007-01-04

We used this book along with Cheng's other book (Concrete at Home), his DVD, and his concrete product line to make our own concrete countertops. We had never worked with concrete before, and the countertops came out great. This book focuses mainly on making molds in your backyard or garage, pouring the concrete, and then flipping the molds so that you start with a smooth surface. We adapted Cheng's product line and poured our countertops in place so we had no seams. I recommend getting the DVD along with this book because they are both helpful and packed with good information. If you want to pour in place, his other book (Concrete at Home) is really helpful.

4 out of 5 stars Informative but not comprehensive.......2006-07-30

I had the idea that I would make my own very customized concrete countertops, but after reading the book I decided on granite instead.

The book has a stylish and modern look, with beautiful illustrations, though not as many photos of actual countertops as one might think. It contains a fairly detailed description of how to make a countertop using the inverted mold method with sections on making the mold, concrete mixes and additives, surface finishes and sealants. The cast-in-place method is mentioned briefly.

The process is not inexpensive and is extremely labor intensive. When you are done you have a countertop that is high maintenance and subject to scratching and staining. Concrete is intriguing because of the design flexibility it offers, but the material looks more suited to bar tops or other area that are not working surfaces. This book gave me the information to make an informed choice and ultimately saved me a lot of work.
The Complete Photo Guide to Home Improvement: With 300 Projects and 2,000 Photos (Black & Decker Home Improvement Library)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Home Improvement Book
  • A little bit of everything, not much of anything...
  • Novice Reference
  • Black & Decker is the king of home improvement books...
  • Best home improvement book for pros and novices
The Complete Photo Guide to Home Improvement: With 300 Projects and 2,000 Photos (Black & Decker Home Improvement Library)
Creative Publishing international
Manufacturer: Creative Publishing international
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1589232127

Book Description

The Bible for home improvement. Includes 300 projects, each with complete step-by-step directions. Updated to include more than 500 new photographs. In this latest edition are all-new chapters on kitchen and bathroom planning, and dozens of additional flooring, plumbing and remodeling projects. Readers will also appreciate the focus on new building materials, including laminate flooring, steel framing, PEX plumbing tubing, andglass blocks. A helpful reference appendix provides at-a-glance information essential for DIY remodelers.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Home Improvement Book.......2007-08-15

A great closing gift for a home buyer. Get them started on the right foot! Easy to understand

4 out of 5 stars A little bit of everything, not much of anything..........2007-05-26

The problem with books such as these is that they do not always provide enough detail to really help you get the job done. This results in your having to buy additional books to supplement your knowledge.

In my case, I am currently remodeling my kitchen. I have never done this kind of work before; BUT, I figure that I am reasonably bright so I can learn as I go, right? I purchsed this book as it seemed to provide just about the best general reference out there.

As I mentioned above, though, it does not always provide a great deal of detail. The section on hanging drywall, for example, does not cover the subject with enough depth to teach an amateur how to do it cleanly and neatly. You will likely have to buy a specific drywall book for more information. Ditto for the section on windows, laying tile, etc.

The one subject so far that did seem to contain enough detail to get the job done was the section on wiring. I was able to add several outlets (and I have never done this kind of thing before) with the aid of this book alone.

I give it 4 stars as it serves it's purpose (an overview on home renovation) admirably. If you really want to learn these things in detail, though, you may want to look at the Black and Decker "Complete" how to books. In fact, this book appears to be a kind of "greatest hits" of the single subject books. Wide, but not deep.

5 out of 5 stars Novice Reference.......2007-05-16

This book is a super resource for anyone who wants to do home improvement, but knows little or nothing about the process. Lots of photos with technical terminology enable the novice to communicate with the pros.

5 out of 5 stars Black & Decker is the king of home improvement books..........2007-03-08

This book continues the excellence in the line of the Black and Decker series of "Photo Guide" books. No other book comes close to providing the quantity and quality of photos. The photos are clear and much better at communicating the task then standard illustrations. Every project is detailed with a handful of photos.

Great book. Great to have on the shelf as a reference book. Awesome book for first-time home owners that want to have a handle on do-it-yourself projects.

5 out of 5 stars Best home improvement book for pros and novices.......2007-01-11

I find this book excellent due to the simple directions, tips, and photos and drawings that are clear enough so the reader can see all the details. Some improvement books have illustrations that leave you scratching your head in confusion.
Ready, Set, Sold!: The Insider Secrets to Sell Your House Fast--for Top Dollar!
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Comprehensive book with great tips
  • I am not sure if I trust this guy
  • One-Stop Selling
  • Great Handbook for Selling Your Home
  • I'm Sold on this book
Ready, Set, Sold!: The Insider Secrets to Sell Your House Fast--for Top Dollar!
Michael Corbett
Manufacturer: Plume
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0452288134

Book Description

Michael Corbett appears regularly on national TV and print media and travels the country lecturing to crowds of 25,000 sharing his expertise, having made millions buying and selling houses during his twenty-plus years in the business. With personal tips, cost-effective techniques, and real estate insider secrets, Ready, Set, Sold! will teach readers how to:
• Add $10,000 to the value of their home in a single weekend
• Avoid the twelve costliest and most common mistakes
• Dress and stage their home to make buyers swoon and bid over the asking price
• Pay no taxes on the sale—without breaking the law
• Complete no-cost makeovers that supercharge their selling price
• Take advantage of the home-selling secrets that only real estate agents know
• Save thousands in commissions and closing costs

With before and after photos, checklists, charts, and worksheets, Ready, Set, Sold! is the book that every home seller MUST read before putting their house up for sale!

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Comprehensive book with great tips.......2007-05-06

Even though we recently had a Realtor walk through the house and make suggestions on minor improvements, I bought this book in case there were some things she didn't mention. The book is easy to read and nicely organized. It explains how to target your house to the buyers it will likely attract and how to how to look at your house from a buyer's perspective. It also includes a brief section on the selling process.

The book explains that a seller should make minor structural and cosmetic repairs, which any Realtor will tell you. But it has a handy checklist of all parts of the home to go through. It then delves into how to de-clutter and how to "stage" the house for selling. It also includes a checklist of things to do before anyone sees the house. As someone who has recently looked at several houses on the market to buy, I can attest there really is an emotional hook that some of this staging provides. These truly are inexpensive or free things (such as putting a bowl of fruit out, playing soothing music, etc.) that can subliminally attract a buyer. The suggestions are tailored to people with all budgets for fixing up before selling. It does not suggest major upgrades but suggests things like repairing broken bathroom tile as opposed to retiling the entire bathroom. Some of these things are no-brainers, but it was helpful reinforcement from what the Realtor said.

There is a section on how to market the home and explains estimated costs. It also explains what happens when the house is in escrow and what needs to be done in a short timeline. It explains how to keep the buyers motivated and calm while still getting what the seller needs out of the deal.

One of the best things about this book is that it repeatedly encourages the seller to put things into perspective. Yes, the idea is to sell the house as quickly as possible and make the most profit, but this book shows the pitfalls about haggling over $100 and how it can make prospective buyers walk away from a deal.

This book doesn't contain any miracle advice and some of the advice is obvious. However, it's an easy read and an inexpensive book that will probably end up helping sellers make more money at selling time. I would recommend it for anyone who wants to understand the real estate process and maximize profit without spending an inordinate amount of time or money.

3 out of 5 stars I am not sure if I trust this guy.......2007-04-17

Here is Ready Set Sold! in one sentence: Make your house look like a model home before you put it on the market. That covers chapters 6 through 12, and is heavily emphasized in all of the other chapters as well.

Of course, making your house look like a model home probably means spending thousands. I know it's going to for me, even for my modest place. Corbett's mantra is that the more you do to make your house a model home, the more money you'll get when you sell it. The amount that you put into fixing the place up, with painting, new furniture if necessary, and a zillion other details large and small, will more than be made up for by the eventual selling price that you can command.

Hmmm...but is this really true? I don't know. I'm in California and everyone I talk to, including realtors, tell me that just about the ONLY thing that will command a higher selling price is a room addition (impossible for my house). Everything else is just wasted money. That doesn't mean you shouldn't clean up clutter and make sure things look nice and spiffy, but spending thousands of dollars on new furniture, cabinetry, and so on is unnecessary.

I'm not sure I buy into the gung-ho "It will cost more up front, but it'll all pay off in the end!" mantra that this book feeds you constantly. Welcome to hear any comments from people (especially in CA) that have actually followed this book to the letter and ended up with verifiable results.


5 out of 5 stars One-Stop Selling.......2007-03-07

This is the ONLY book you'll need to sell a home sucessfully. Period. Corbett's blend of humor and personal stories make for a fun read, and he's got an enormous repertoire of ideas that will help you do exactly what the book promises: sell for the most money!

4 out of 5 stars Great Handbook for Selling Your Home.......2007-03-07

This book is great and an easy read! It takes the mystery out of selling your home by explaining what to do and what to expect step by step from the beginning to the end.

5 out of 5 stars I'm Sold on this book.......2007-03-06

Easy and inexpensive tips from this book can help you sell your home for more money and in less time. There are so many photos that show how to stage your home to make the first few minutes a buyer comes in to your home count!
An Affair with a House
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • What it means to love a house
  • Not what I was looking for
  • Home Away From Home
  • WONDERFUL!
  • I would give this book six stars, if I could!
An Affair with a House
Bunny Williams , and Christine Pettel
Manufacturer: "Stewart, Tabori and Chang"
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
ResidentialResidential | Building Types & Styles | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Interior Design | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1584794704

Book Description

For 28 years the world-renowned interior designer Bunny Williams has been involved in a passionate love affair with an18th-century New England manor house that she found in sad repair. From the moment she walked up the driveway and her palms began to perspire, Williams knew she wanted the affair to last forever. In her sumptuous new book, An Affair with a House, the venerable decorator describes in detail how she and her husband, antiques dealer John Rosselli, rescued, nurtured, renovated, and decorated the well-worn house, giving it new life as they restored each room, resurrected the abandoned gardens, and filled this weekend home with family and friends.

Through photographs, anecdotes, how-tos, and recipes, Williams provides a rare inside look at a top decorator's retreat and explains how she approached the joys, pleasures, challenges, obstacles, and day-to-day realities of creating a beautiful, comfortable country home. An Affair with a House provides a wealth of advice on interior decor and such topics as mixing design styles, but it also addresses such practical matters as stocking the pantry and outfitting the linen closet. Beautiful photographs of the house, the gardens, and the property's rustic structures provide an intimate glimpse of the couple's lifestyle and illustrate a way of life we can all appreciate and learn from.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars What it means to love a house.......2007-09-04

I am not your typical reviewer of this book as I have had "An Affair with a House" for quite some time. The fact that I continue to pick it up for inspiration prompted me to share my opinion. Bunny William's personality shines through every page. I like that she shared a bit of the history of the house and how she came to acquire it. What is obvious is that Bunny's house and gardens evolved over time. Her book will inspire you to make the very most of what you have with your own house. I love this book and I am so glad to be able to refer back to it often. I also purchased her book "On Garden Style". The only thing that would be better than reading these two gems, would be to take a personal tour! Thank you Bunny and John. From one dog lover to another, I loved the pictures of your "babies".

2 out of 5 stars Not what I was looking for.......2007-08-22

I was looking for Decorating Inspiration and this didn't provide much. It just goes through what this woman went through in buying the old villa and restoring it. My home is almost new and not that big and the decorating help was minimal.

5 out of 5 stars Home Away From Home.......2007-08-16

This book was beautifully presented and written. I absorbed it all! Would love to live with Bunny and John. As wonderful as the presentation, I found it reassuring how down to earth the decorating and recepies were communicated.

Billie (GA)

5 out of 5 stars WONDERFUL!.......2007-06-28

First, I fell in love with the cover shot. Then the barn. Then the guest house. And the decorating isn't even my style! But I'm on my third read - every word read and every photo examined. Guess I love the thought of it and wish it were me! Now I don't have the money - and I don't have the time. But I can certainly appreciate her love for this house.

5 out of 5 stars I would give this book six stars, if I could!.......2007-05-15

This is a wonderful book---and the text is as wonderful as the photographs. The chicken house is my hands down favorite part. Bunny's husband's pancakes are great (we've tried the recipe) and the guest barn is totally charming. Oh how I wish I had Bunny's gardeners! I dream of her gardens, but feel like they are out of reach for us. There is a lot to learn from this book--even if you can't accomplish all of this for your own home or property. It's my favorite coffee table book ---and I never tire of looking at it. Congratulations Bunny---this book is a clear winner!!
Renovation: Completely Revised and Updated
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great reference
  • Renovation: Completely Revised and Updated
  • This a Useful Text despite my earlier review
  • Very Good Book
  • perfect book for advanced do-it-yourselfer
Renovation: Completely Revised and Updated
Michael W. Litchfield
Manufacturer: Taunton
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Remodeling & Renovation | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Renovating Old Houses: Bringing New Life to Vintage Homes Renovating Old Houses: Bringing New Life to Vintage Homes
  2. Working Alone: Tips & Techniques for Solo Building Working Alone: Tips & Techniques for Solo Building
  3. Measuring, Marking, and Layout: A Builder's Guide Measuring, Marking, and Layout: A Builder's Guide
  4. What The Experts May Not Tell You About Building or Renovating Your Home What The Experts May Not Tell You About Building or Renovating Your Home
  5. Drywall: Professional Techniques for Great Results Drywall: Professional Techniques for Great Results

Accessories:
  1. Stanley SFS100K 1/2-Inch to 1-Inch Narrow Crown Stapler Stanley SFS100K 1/2-Inch to 1-Inch Narrow Crown Stapler
  2. Stanley SBN200K 5/8 to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Stanley SBN200K 5/8 to 2-Inch 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
  3. Stanley SFN250K 1-inch to 2-1/2-Inch 16-Gauge Finish Nailer Stanley SFN250K 1-inch to 2-1/2-Inch 16-Gauge Finish Nailer
  4. Stanley SDA250K 1-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch 15 Gauge Angled Finish Nailer Stanley SDA250K 1-Inch to 2-1/2-Inch 15 Gauge Angled Finish Nailer
  5. Stanley SFRN350 Round Head 2-inch to 3-1/2-Inch Framing Nailer Stanley SFRN350 Round Head 2-inch to 3-1/2-Inch Framing Nailer

ASIN: 1561585882
Release Date: 2005-09-06

Book Description

The "bible" of home renovators for over 25 years, Renovation has now been completely revised and updated with all new color photography.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great reference.......2007-10-11

Bought this for our nephew the master carpenter who has been devouring it and says he always wants to have it handy. He learned a lot even after 20 years experience.

5 out of 5 stars Renovation: Completely Revised and Updated.......2007-09-12

Excellent source for anyone who has an old house, with easy directions and explanations. The photos are very helpful also.

3 out of 5 stars This a Useful Text despite my earlier review.......2007-07-22

Updated to 4 Stars **** My first review was too harsh. The book is an excellent resource but not always a breath of inspiration. It is not about old house renovation and thus my comparison to the Nash book was unfair. ****** This book is to the George Nash book as a primary reader is to intermediate reading. Useful basic information about tools and materials but lets read Time-Life Books How-To Series for that. When it comes to the nitty gritty of dealing with the tough stuff (foundations, basemants, blueboard, plaster, etc.) it just stops short of the mark. If this book is really new information to you then call a contractor to do the work because you are in way over your head. Might be useful as a vocabulary builder when working with a contractor or subcontractor but as a DIY guide just not quite brown on both sides.

5 out of 5 stars Very Good Book.......2007-02-26

I'm taking a class in home remodeling at Long Beach City College and this is the book the instructor selected for the class. The information is accurate and well explained so that those of us who don't come from the trades can understand it.

5 out of 5 stars perfect book for advanced do-it-yourselfer.......2007-02-23

great book recommended by contractor who sold me the house i am now remodeling. his 1st edition copy is listerally falling apart. the only detail that i have found to be missing is the exclusion of clothes washing machines in the plumbing section (every aspect of the other fixtures that make use of water supply and drains are addressed in detail with specifications). the basic concepts CAN be applied to washing machines, but the detail used to address the supply/drain system for other fixtures automatically makes the washer's omission erroneous.
Prefabulous: The House of Your Dreams Delivered Fresh from the Factory
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Prefabulous
  • Fabulous is right!
  • Long on promise, short on substance
  • Extraordinary Approach To Housing
  • FAB
Prefabulous: The House of Your Dreams Delivered Fresh from the Factory
Sheri Koones
Manufacturer: Taunton
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

ResidentialResidential | Building Types & Styles | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Building Types & Styles | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
Building ConstructionBuilding Construction | Construction | Civil | Engineering | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Real Estate | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
House PlansHouse Plans | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Remodeling & Renovation | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
ReferenceReference | How-to & Home Improvements | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Modular Mansions Modular Mansions
  2. The Grissim Ratings Guide to Manufactured Homes: The Essential Buyer's Resource, Listing Every Builder in the U.S., Their Histories, Products, Price Ranges, ... Need-to-Know Information and Much More The Grissim Ratings Guide to Manufactured Homes: The Essential Buyer's Resource, Listing Every Builder in the U.S., Their Histories, Products, Price Ranges, ... Need-to-Know Information and Much More
  3. The Modular Home The Modular Home
  4. Prefab Modern Prefab Modern
  5. The Grissim Buyer's Guide to Manufactured Homes & Land: How to Find a Reputable Dealer and Negotiate a Fair Price on the Best-Kept Secret in American Housing The Grissim Buyer's Guide to Manufactured Homes & Land: How to Find a Reputable Dealer and Negotiate a Fair Price on the Best-Kept Secret in American Housing

ASIN: 156158844X
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Book Description

This is the only book that gives homeowners who are dreaming about building or planning to build a new home the good and the bad on all types of prefabricated houses. Shows that prefabricated can be mainstream traditional design and does not have to look like a mobile home or a modular "Dwell" box.

Prefabulous describes the many systems available for prefabricating all or parts of a new home, including timber frame and log, as well as modular, panelized, structural insulated panels, steel framing and concrete systems, which are relatively new. Prefabulous describes these systems, compares their advantages and disadvantages, and shows beautiful examples of houses built using these techniques. Although all of these "prefabricated" houses look very different, all of them were manufactured partially or almost completely in a controlled factory environment and transported to the home site to be erected. As a group these systems offer a faster, more energy-efficient, and sometimes more cost-efficient method of building.

Includes a foreword by Not So Big House author Sarah Susanka, who writes: "For homeowners who want to know the options, the advantages and disadvantages of those options, and to see how those prefabricated parts come together into a good, attractive home, read this book."

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Prefabulous.......2007-09-20

Very informative book. A must read for anyone thinking of building an upscale prefab house.

5 out of 5 stars Fabulous is right!.......2007-08-24

Sheri Koones has done another remarkable job showing the benefits and cusomization capabilities of systems-built homes. The press has made 'pre-fab' a common term over the last few years, and this book helps to showcase the many types of quality, code-compliant, factory built homes. As Executive Director of the Building Systems Councils at the National Association of Home Builders, I know many of our members own copies of this book and are proud to see systems-built homes get the recognition they deserve for being such great ways to build. The book is extremely well done, outlining the types, options, floorplans, and design choices of systems-built homes. There is no other book like it.

1 out of 5 stars Long on promise, short on substance.......2007-08-23

I purchased this book along with another book about "modular" homes by the same author titled "Modular Mansions". I am terribly disappointed by both the books and I am leaving this same exact review for the other book as well.

The book is nothing more than pretty pictures. It offers very little in substance. While the book does profile several large houses constructed in a modular fashion, the author seem to have neither the inclination nor the construction background to discuss the meat and potatoes issues. The book is sprinkled with platitudes and how various home owners chose to decorate their homes. I would have liked to see discussions about how the actual construction was accomplished, what the pitfalls have been, some rudimentary floor plans etc. An in-depth profile of at least one of the houses including perhaps a sit-down with the architect as to how the pieces fit together would have been better than the sheer fluff that fills the pages.

It seems the author was exposed to the modular way of building homes rather by accident and while she seems genuinely enthusiastic about this method, she does not possess proper education/training/experience to guide a reader properly. Instead, she chose to produce this coffee table book that is pretty to look at but offers little else. I was suckered by the promise of modular homes into ordering both the "coffee table" books by this author at the same time and both are equally disappointing.

Modular type of construction does offer some promise in very specific cases for an educated home owner/builder that can take advantage of the efficiencies of this method while avoiding the various pitfalls. But do not buy these books expecting to be educated. You are better of researching somewhere else where true professionals offer advice in this area.

5 out of 5 stars Extraordinary Approach To Housing.......2007-07-23

I had no idea factory built homes existed at anything close to this level of detail, craftsmanship, beauty, variety, durability and more.

This is an excellent book which incorporates all the major types of factory built homes outside of manufactured homes and mobile homes. I now have an entirely new perspective on the current and future state of housing in our country, especially here in Miami, Florida.

As a result of this tremendous "discovery," I am putting together a team of dedicated professionals to assess the viability of the construction applications (residential, commercial and otherwise) featured in this book for the South Florida market.

Every one of my colleagues, friends, family and others have been absolutely amazed at the contents of this book.

You will not be disappointed with this outstanding piece of work even if you employ its use for educational or edification purposes only, or just as a conversation piece for your coffee table.

5 out of 5 stars FAB.......2007-06-08

This book is very helpful in learning about the different choices you have for building. Worth buying if you are looking for something besides standard stick built house.
Design Ideas for Kitchens (Design Ideas Series)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Good Source for Ideas
  • This is a must-have book fit for every kitchen!
  • Excellent Resource
Design Ideas for Kitchens (Design Ideas Series)
Susan Boyle Hillstrom
Manufacturer: Creative Homeowner
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Design & ConstructionDesign & Construction | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
KitchensKitchens | Remodeling & Renovation | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
DecoratingDecorating | Interior Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Design Ideas for Bathrooms (Design Ideas Series) Design Ideas for Bathrooms (Design Ideas Series)
  2. The New Smart Approach to Kitchen Design (New Smart Approach) The New Smart Approach to Kitchen Design (New Smart Approach)
  3. New Kitchen Idea Book (Idea Books) New Kitchen Idea Book (Idea Books)
  4. Joan Kohn's It's Your Kitchen: Over 100 Inspirational Kitchens Joan Kohn's It's Your Kitchen: Over 100 Inspirational Kitchens
  5. Kitchens That Work: The Practical Guide to Creating a Great Kitchen Kitchens That Work: The Practical Guide to Creating a Great Kitchen

ASIN: 1580112188

Book Description

With many homeowners spending more time in the kitchen than any other room in the house, the heart of the home has become the modern-day living room. Design Ideas for Kitchens offers hundreds of inspirational ideas and solutions directly from today's most talented designers. With over 500 color photographs of professionally designed kitchens, this book is an unrivaled resource. Floor plans are included for kitchens of all shapes and sizes, such as the traditional U-, L-, G-shape, one-wall, and galley configurations, with ideas for re-thinking the classic work triangle and how to plan multiple zones. Ever-popular kitchen islands and peninsulas are amply represented, along with the latest cabinetry and storage options. The book also contains a complete reference for choosing sinks and faucets, flooring and countertop treatments, including granite, tile, solid-surfacing material, and more. An entire chapter is devoted to choosing appliances best-suited for lifestyle needs.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Good Source for Ideas.......2007-08-31

The main goal of purchasing this magazine is to simply get a few ideas to remodel or design your new kitchen. There were many styles and combinations to choose from.

5 out of 5 stars This is a must-have book fit for every kitchen!.......2007-06-25

The kitchens in this book are something to be jealous of. Not only are there beautiful ideas offered in this book, but practical tips are also included to make for a more functional kitchen that's not just aesthetically pleasing. Great ideas on cabinetry are supplied, along with information on surfaces, countertops, and lighting. Also, interesting ideas to include a washer and dryer. A lot of great information comes in one book. Before you go ahead and plan out how you're going to do your new kitchen, pick up this book. You'll be glad you did.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Resource.......2007-01-27

Packed with large, full-color pictures and all the information you could need for a kitchen remodel. Covers everything from lighting to hardware. Very up-to-date and helpful. Price paid was a real bargain.
Designed to Sell: Make any home the hottest property on the block with expert advice from the popular HGTV series
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Change "other views"
  • Not for a beginner
  • great pictures, good advice
  • If you've seen the show....
  • Always keep eyes open and mind questioning
Designed to Sell: Make any home the hottest property on the block with expert advice from the popular HGTV series
HGTV
Manufacturer: HGTV
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

GeneralGeneral | Real Estate | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
GeneralGeneral | Remodeling & Renovation | Home Design | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
  1. Home Staging: The Winning Way to Sell Your House for More Money Home Staging: The Winning Way to Sell Your House for More Money
  2. Curb Appeal Curb Appeal
  3. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Staging your Home to Sell (Complete Idiot's Guide to) The Complete Idiot's Guide to Staging your Home to Sell (Complete Idiot's Guide to)
  4. Candice Olson on Design Candice Olson on Design
  5. Peggy's Corner: Stage Your Home for Profit Peggy's Corner: Stage Your Home for Profit

ASIN: 069622450X
Release Date: 2006-01-10

Book Description

Whether the readerÂ's home is stuck in the 1970s or they are looking to freshen things up, they will learn cost-effective strategies to maximize their investment—or their enjoyment, if selling isnÂ't in their immediate plans.

Packed with practical interior design ideas, home improvement tips, and real estate insider secrets that help home sellers go beyond just cleaning up the place.

Provides the tools to increase the beauty and functionality of every home, while maximizing the ownerÂ's investment.

Expert advice from Designed to Sell host Clive Pearse and interior designer Lisa LaPorta on selling a home quickly and getting top dollar for the property.

Filled with clever and useful information for getting a home ready to sell or for making the right improvement to increase the homeÂ's value.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Change "other views" .......2007-10-09

Before I bought the book, I read the reviews, but what really got me interested was the "other views" or pages from the book below the book title, you know the ones that you look at to get a better idea what's in the book. Well it shows a page with "glazed cabinets" but there is no such page in the actual book. I was really disappointed just because I expected it to be there if it was right below the book.

2 out of 5 stars Not for a beginner.......2007-09-05

Not enough detail info or "example" pictures to please me. When one is just "breaking in" to designing more before/after pics would help.

4 out of 5 stars great pictures, good advice.......2007-08-18

The Designed to Sell book offers the same frank commentary, sage advice, and money-saving tips as the TV show. Many large full-color photos are a special treat and a great resource for both fans of the show and homeowners looking to stage their property for sale.

The book could have been strengthened by a conclusion (noticeably absent) and also more before-and-after pictures; sometimes only the "after" was shown.

2 out of 5 stars If you've seen the show...........2007-08-14

You don't need to read the book. There wasn't anything new or insightful to be garnered from reading the book. I was hoping for some more in depth tips that the show doesn't have time to cover.

4 out of 5 stars Always keep eyes open and mind questioning.......2007-07-12

The book, like the show, is invaluable whether you will actually sell your house or not. More than one "seller" has changed from seller to keeper or rental owner because of how well the renovation turned out, and that is okay, too. The principal idea is to take a long, hard look at your dear little abode and see it more as others may see it. Clutter abounds, dirt has made itself at home in hard to reach places, repairs have been put off, etcetera! This book, like the program, will help you to sort out these problems, but many of the costs are not realistic: they hide some subterfuge.
Just for starters, I have never seen a cost entered for labor. Where the program is concerned, we know, or should know, that all labor is provided by the crew, who are on contract to the show. Furthermore, the work for the show is always completed on time and professionally well done. In real life, however, we have the problem of finding qualified, honest and trustworthy contractors/workmen who will charge us fairly for a job done well. None of this is dealt with in the program or in the book. Perhaps that part is "another story?"
If anyone goes into a remodeling/renovation project with only $2000 to spend, they had better have some talented and willing family or friends as well as being able to do some/most of the work themselves. As for the "new" furniture, it would be more helpful if the sources were mentioned. It is quite acceptable to purchase furniture from outlets and "used" stores at serious savings. However, these sources are not always available everywhere, and that, in all fairness, should be pointed out. This is my only criticism of the show and the book. The ideas are there and the needed jobs layed out, but the money is not realistic. Still, the book is worth the time to read it and the money to buy it - used.

Books:

  1. Leading Teams: Setting the Stage for Great Performances
  2. Living In Paris (New Edition) (Living In...)
  3. Living In Paris (New Edition) (Living In...)
  4. Making Mosaics: Designs, Techniques & Projects
  5. Master Handbook of Acoustics
  6. Materials and Components of Interior Architecture (6th Edition)
  7. Materials and Components of Interior Architecture (6th Edition)
  8. Medical and Dental Space Planning: A Comprehensive Guide to Design, Equipment, and Clinical Procedures
  9. Medical and Dental Space Planning: A Comprehensive Guide to Design, Equipment, and Clinical Procedures
  10. Mommy Millionaire: How I Turned My Kitchen Table Idea into a Million Dollars and How You Can, Too!

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