Victorian. Modern. Colonial. What’s Your Architectural Style?

Continued from page 1
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.

Neda Dabestani-Ryba is a licensed Realtor in Maryland. She is a member of the President's Circle of Top Real Estate Professionals. She can be reached at (800) 536-3806 or visit her website for more information: http://neda.dabestani.pcragent.com/ Prudential Carruthers REALTORS is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity

GREEN BUILDING MEDIA FACT SHEET Past, Present & Future

Continued from page 1
Lower operating costs—homes are equipped with more efficient heating and cooling systems and use less water, resulting in lower monthly utility bills. Improved construction methods better protect homes from rain and ground water and reduce upkeep and replacement costs, while use of recycled materials helps conserve natural resources. Reduce maintenance issues—landscaping uses native or drought-resistant plants and grasses, and decks made of pressure-treated lumber or synthetic materials need no sealing or staining. Increase home value—homeowners with documented lower monthly utility bills are reporting higher re-sale values. Improve environmental quality—moisture-control products and low VOC paints contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment, and efficient use of materials helps conserve natural resources. NAHB’s guidelines were developed in a consensus process by a group of more than 60 stakeholders representing key players in green home building industry. Future Green building is a growing trend among home builders nationwide, with more than 30 successful green building programs now in existence. Eleven green building programs are owned or operated by members or affiliates of National Association of Home Builders in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Missouri, New York, Ohio and Washington. More than 15 more will be organized with support from Green Building Initiative, an organization created to help implement NAHB’s Model Green Home Building Guidelines in markets across country.

Neda Dabestani-Ryba is a licensed Realtor in Maryland. She is a member of the President's Circle of Top Real Estate Professionals. She can be reached at (800) 536-3806 or visit her website for more information: http://neda.dabestani.pcragent.com/ Prudential Carruthers REALTORS is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity