The Arts and Crafts style, prominent from 1890-1920, was one of first styles native to America. It originated in Southern California between World War I and II. Some of its features include large porches, exposed stucco or stones, low pitched roofs with large overhang, as well as tall narrow windows grouped together to permit plenty of sunlight. The interiors have open floor plans with built-in cabinets and furniture and natural fireplaces. Similar styles to Arts and Crafts home include Tudor, Spanish, Mission, Bungalow and Prairie.

Recognized by its flat roofs, metal casement windows and plain or absent interior molding, Modern style home is catch-all style for homes built since 1920s. This home design generally favors function over style. The Ranch home is probably most popular variation of Modern style. The Ranch originated in California in 1930s, and became popular nationwide in 1950s and '60s when it became a symbol of post-World War II American Dream. Common design elements for one-story home are its pitched-roof, wood or brick exterior, and built-in garage that shares same roofline with home. It also favored a patio in rear of home in lieu of a front porch.

Knowing style of home you like can be helpful when looking for a new home. The more information you can give your real estate professional, better they can serve your needs and get you in your dream home.

Copyright © 2005 FreeHomeBuyingResources.com All Rights Reserved.

Preventing identity theft means you never give out personal information unless you initiated contact or you're absolutely sure who you're dealing with.

Another good way of preventing identity theft is be especially careful about divulging your credit card number over phone to telemarketers.

Often only goal is to obtain your name, address and credit card number.

If you have to give your credit card number over phone for a hotel or airline reservation, use a regular corded phone as opposed to a cordless or cell phone.

Make sure you report any lost or stolen credit cards immediately for preventing identity theft.

The bottom line is be careful about divulging any personal information about you.

If you use these tips you'll have a much better chance at preventing identity theft before it happens.

Copyright © 2005 Credit Repair Facts.com

------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This article may be re-published "as is" (unedited) as long as author's bio paragraph (resource box) and copyright information is included. Any editing will be considered copyright infringement. The URLs in resource box should be set as hyperlinks if used on a web page. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------