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Is a solar system or a heat pump really worth it? This weekend on Around the House with Eric Goranson, CKD, we break down the big-ticket upgrades everybody's asking about, then look at smart-home cybersecurity and a new way to buy used. In hour 1, Eric takes on solar panels and heat pumps: the costs, the savings, and the questions to ask before you spend a dime. We also get into what happens when you sell a house with a solar lease or PPA. The buyer may have to take over the rest of the contract, that transfer isn't automatic, and the solar company's credit check can get sticky in the middle of a sale. In hour 2, Eric talks cybersecurity with Xfinity and how to lock down your smart home. Then we look at Commonplace (trycommonplace.com), which inspects used exercise machines, furniture and hot tubs and delivers them white-glove right into your home. No more no-shows, ghosting, tire-kickers or strangers at the door. All that and more, Saturday, on Around the House with Eric G. Around the House with Eric G is heard on 200+ stations by 1.2 million weekly listeners. Join the conversation: search Around the House Nation on Facebook Takeaways: We're diving into big-ticket home upgrades like solar and heat pumps, and I'll break down true costs versus promised savings so you don't buy into hype.I warn you about solar leases and PPAs when selling: assumption isn't automatic, buyers need credit approval, and sales can fall apart if transfers get denied.In hour two we'll nerd out on smart-home cybersecurity with Xfinity—I'll show practical steps to lock down devices before Wi-Fi becomes a homeowner's worst enemy.We spotlight a new used-goods service, Commonplace.com, that inspects and white-glove delivers items so sellers can avoid tire-kickers and buyers get less risk.I beg you to subscribe, leave reviews, and follow our YouTube channels—your support keeps us dodging rogue ladders and questionable DIY disasters. Links referenced in this episode: therealtor.comcommonplace.comaroundthehouseonline.com Companies mentioned in this episode: National Association of Realtors (NAR)Realtor.comXfinityCommonplace.comYouTube Thanks for listening to Around the House with Eric G! Subscribe so you never miss a new episode: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen Watch and follow us on YouTube: Around the House with Eric G: www.youtube.com/@aroundthehouseEricGAround the House HQ: www.youtube.com/@AroundtheHouseHQ Join the Around the House Insider for the full back catalog, exclusive content, early access to new shows and a direct line to Eric G: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support Has this episode helped with your house? We'd love a quick rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's the best way to help other homeowners find the show. For more tips, products and past episodes, visit aroundthehouseonline.com Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Happy Veterans Day — hats off, handshakes, and a big virtual salute from me. I open by reminding us why we get to worry about mortgage math and paint colors: freedom. Then I pivot to the numbers that actually keep us up at night: mortgage rates briefly fell but then popped back up to about 7.3% after four weeks of declines, and CPI ticked +0.4% with shelter and electricity tugging at it. If you’re house-hunting, know the landscape isn’t static — buyer incentives are sprouting, and I even heard about someone assuming a sub-3% loan. That’s a wild move, and it’s worth asking about if you’re touring homes. I dig into VA loans because it’s Veterans Day and because this one matters: roughly 76% of recent VA buyers used zero-down financing, which Realtor.com says accelerates homeownership by about four years. Astonishingly, only about three in ten veterans know that option exists — so we harp on it. I walk you through the pragmatic stuff: ask your lender about assumption opportunities, double-check VA zero-down eligibility, and don’t forget the soft-but-real micro-costs (insurance, HOA assessments) that sneak up on you. The takeaway? Rates are high-ish, options exist, and being curious can save you years. Practical close: if you’re shopping for a new place or refinancing, don’t get dazzled by headline rates — dig into assumptions, incentives, and your specific costs over time. I also nudge buyers to plan for rising home-related expenses: remodeling costs are way up compared with 2016, and appliance makers are announcing price hikes, so time your big buys smartly. We keep it straightforward: know your options, ask the uncomfortable questions, and let veterans know their zero-down perk actually exists. Takeaways: I want to tip my hat again: VA zero‑down loans helped about 76% of recent veteran buyers, getting many into homes roughly four years sooner — but shockingly only three in ten vets even know this option exists, so check it out.Mortgage mood swings are real — rates slid, then spiked back up to about 7.3% ending a four‑week decline, CPI nudged 0.4% with shelter and electricity in play, and we’re seeing clever buyer incentives like loan assumptions preserving sub‑3% deals.Condo market caveat: sellers now outnumber buyers two to one — the widest gap since 2013 — and rising HOA fees, insurance hits, litigation from recent builds, and price cuts (about 37% sold after reductions) are why buyers are squeamish.Repair and appliance costs are quietly brutal right now — remodeling expenses are roughly 64% higher than 2016, Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag slated a 7% price hike and paints jumped too, so start hunting Black Friday deals or consider deferred financing before you get sticker shock.Recalls roundup — and yes, we do mean stop‑using‑now: Gourmia air fryer ovens, Bose S1 Pro lithium packs, millions of Little Giant ladders with rapid‑lock issues, Vanderhall Brawley seat belts, and Camp ice axes — register at cpsc.gov/recalls and follow the repair or disposal instructions.On a local note, we’re proud to support Operation Help with Our Heroes on Channel 2 — we’ve helped raise tens of thousands for veterans in past telethons, and hey, stick around for the weekend show where we’ll geek out about a new inspected delivery platform for big Marketplace finds. Links referenced in this episode: cpsc.gov/recallslittlegiantladders.com/pages/recalls Companies mentioned in this episode: Realtor.comRedfinWhirlpoolKitchenAidMaytagSherwin-WilliamsVeriskGourmiaBoseVanderhall North AmericaLittle Giant LaddersCAMPCraigslistFacebook MarketplaceU.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)Barbecue NationYouTubeClark County Veterans Assistance CenterOperation Help with Our Heroes Thanks for listening to Around the House with Eric G! Subscribe so you never miss a new episode: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen Watch and follow us on YouTube: Around the House with Eric G: www.youtube.com/@aroundthehouseEricGAround the House HQ: www.youtube.com/@AroundtheHouseHQ Join the Around the House Insider for the full back catalog, exclusive content, early access to new shows and a direct line to Eric G: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support Has this episode helped with your house? We'd love a quick rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's the best way to help other homeowners find the show. For more tips, products and past episodes, visit aroundthehouseonline.com Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Can ZIP System sheathing create a mold problem in your walls? In this listener Q&A from Around the House Nation, our free Facebook group, Eric Goranson, CKD, answers Ian's question about ZIP sheathing, moisture control and proper wall ventilation. We explain how water gets trapped in wall assemblies, why two vapor barriers without a drying path can create a "mold sandwich," and how correct seam taping, window flashing and drainage details help prevent problems. You'll also learn how a rainscreen gap behind siding lets water drain and moisture escape, why exterior insulation can keep sheathing warmer in cold climates, and how bath fans, kitchen ventilation and indoor humidity control help keep the house dry. Then we introduce the FORTIFIED Home program from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), including how a sealed roof deck can help limit water damage if shingles blow off. None of this segment is sponsored. Have a project or home question? Search Around the House Nation on Facebook and join our free group. Around the House with Eric G® is heard on 200+ stations by 1.2 million weekly listeners. Subscribe and find more at aroundthehouseonline.com. Thanks for listening to Around the House with Eric G! Subscribe so you never miss a new episode: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen Watch and follow us on YouTube: Around the House with Eric G: www.youtube.com/@aroundthehouseEricGAround the House HQ: www.youtube.com/@AroundtheHouseHQ Join the Around the House Insider for the full back catalog, exclusive content, early access to new shows and a direct line to Eric G: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support Has this episode helped with your house? We'd love a quick rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's the best way to help other homeowners find the show. For more tips, products and past episodes, visit aroundthehouseonline.com Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show. Takeaways: I love Zip sheathing — it's a solid WRB and air barrier, but only if taped, flashed, and allowed to dry out; otherwise you get a literal mold sandwich.We say installer quality beats brand every time: a sloppy tape job or missed flashing will wreck any product, no matter how clever the sheathing is.Bottom line: bulk water rots walls, so I obsess over flashing details, kickout flashings, drainage gaps, and rain screens before fretting about vapor diffusion.If you're dealing with attic frost and wet sheathing, I air‑seal the ceiling, seal penetrations with fire‑rated foam, install proper baffles, then add Rockwool for R‑value and moisture resistance.We don't let bath fans dump into the attic — I run insulated, sealed ducts entirely outside and avoid powered attic fans that create negative pressure and pull conditioned air up.We back the IBHS Fortified program: sealed roof decks, ring‑shank nails, and reinforced edges can hugely reduce post‑storm water intrusion and may score you insurance discounts.To fix a sterile Florida house I push warmth and depth: choose warm, nature‑inspired colors, sample them in sunlight, then add trim or color‑drenching to give real personality.Quick safety checklist from us: test vermiculite for asbestos, don't bury knob‑and‑tube or non‑IC cans under insulation, and acclimate or prime trim in humid zones before installing. Links referenced in this episode: aroundthehouseonline.comfortifiedhome.org Companies mentioned in this episode: Huber Engineered WoodsZIP SystemDuPontEnergy StarInsurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)FORTIFIED Home programGAFROCKWOOLU.S. Department of Energy (DOE)The Home DepotBenjamin MooreBehrSherwin-Williams

Turning your home into a rental? The finishes you love in your own house may not survive tenants—or protect your budget. Eric Goranson, CKD, and interior designer Wendy Glaister share practical rental-property remodeling ideas that put durability, easy maintenance and long-term value first. What started this conversaton was a story that Eric G wrote for Designer Magazine: https://www.designerstoday.com/news/industry-news/kitchens-built-for-the-rental-economy-designing-kitchen-and-bath-spaces-that-perform-as-an-income/ We cover choosing rental-grade kitchen cabinets and countertops, why wood finishes can outlast painted cabinets, durable carpet and flooring, scrubbable paint, reliable toilets and appliances, and the plumbing and ventilation choices that can help prevent expensive repair calls. Plus, learn why keeping spare flooring and ordering replacement parts from established manufacturers can save major headaches later. We also get into the business side of becoming a landlord: budgeting for vacancies and maintenance, building a trusted repair team, understanding local requirements, and joining a landlord association before a costly mistake teaches you the hard way. Around the House with Eric G® is heard on 200+ stations by 1.2 million weekly listeners. Subscribe, leave a review, and find the show and our YouTube channels at aroundthehouseonline.com. Have a question for a future episode? Search Around the House Nation on Facebook and join our free group. Thanks for listening to Around the House with Eric G! Subscribe so you never miss a new episode: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen Watch and follow us on YouTube: Around the House with Eric G: www.youtube.com/@aroundthehouseEricGAround the House HQ: www.youtube.com/@AroundtheHouseHQ Join the Around the House Insider for the full back catalog, exclusive content, early access to new shows and a direct line to Eric G: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support Has this episode helped with your house? We'd love a quick rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's the best way to help other homeowners find the show. For more tips, products and past episodes, visit aroundthehouseonline.com Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Episode SummaryIs America short on homes, or short on affordable ones? In this Wednesday Punch List, Eric G walks through this week’s mortgage rates, existing, pending, and new home sales, builder price cuts, the remodeling market, Portland job losses, and the latest product safety recalls from the CPSC. What We CoverMortgage Rates Freddie Mac’s 30-year fixed: 7.24%, down from 7.32% the week before and the lowest of the month15-year fixed: 6.6%A year ago, the 30-year was 6.17%Mortgage News Daily index: 7.3%, up from 7.2%10-year Treasury yield fell three basis points to 4.92%. Mortgage rates usually follow within a day or two.New Freddie Mac numbers come out Thursday Existing and Pending Home Sales Existing home sales rose 1.5% in September to a 3.99 million annual pace, but are down 2.2% from a year agoMedian existing home price: $417,500 (up 1.3% year over year)Inventory: 1.6 million homes, a 4.8-month supplyPending home sales fell 7.3%, and the NAR index dropped to 66, the lowest since the index began in 2001 New Construction: “No Housing Shortage” New home sales: 676,000 annual pace (down 0.6% from August, down 5.3% from a year ago)Median new home price: $400,4008.4-month supply of new homes, which Eric says points to an affordability problem rather than a shortageNAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index fell three points to 29, the lowest since June 2012Buyer traffic: 1843% of builders cut prices in October and 65% offered incentivesBuyer tip: If you’re shopping new construction, ask about rate buydowns and upgrades Remodeling Market NAHB Remodeling Market Index: 62 in Q3, up one pointCurrent conditions: 70 (flat for a third straight quarter)Large projects ($50,000 and up): up two points to 66Leads and inquiries: 53. Backlogs: 56Eric’s take on the West Coast: remodelers are busier elsewhere, but affordability pressures are costing jobs here Portland Job Losses and Affordability Freightliner, founded in Portland and building trucks for 80 years, closed its operation on Friday, Oct. 31 and is moving to another stateEric points to job losses across Washington, Oregon, and California as a drag on West Coast housing pricesPortland’s plan to close 14 schools, which Eric ties to families leaving and not being able to afford kids Product Safety Recalls (source: cpsc.gov/recalls) Dreo space heaters (fire and burn hazards): 338,800 units in the U.S., about 36,000 in CanadaNTI and HTP gas boilers (fire, carbon monoxide, and impact hazards): about 4,700 units in the U.S., 2,200 in CanadaBodum French press coffee makers with replaceable glass carafes (burn injury risk)Haiara power banks sold on Amazon (fire hazard): about 11,000 unitsWhatever Works microwave grills (fire hazard): about 8,700 unitsOcoopa rechargeable hand warmers: 1.5 million unitsPlus more recalls on dressers without anti-tip hardware, mattresses, and kids’ clothing Join the ConversationJoin Around The House Nation on Facebook, our friendly closed group, to post what you’re working on and ask your home improvement and design questions. One hour of this weekend’s show will be built around questions from the group. You can also message Eric at aroundthehouseonline.com. Resources MentionedCPSC recalls: cpsc.gov/recallsAround the House: aroundthehouseonline.comFacebook group: Around The House Nation Takeaways: I said the election felt like a blunt affordability wake-up call — voters shouted 'cheaper please', and we want results, not party fandom over the next two years.We dug through mortgage headlines: 30-year rates hovering near 7.2%, about a full point above last year, so buyer calculus is tight and picky.I flagged the 8.4-month supply of new homes — that nukes the 'housing shortage' excuse and tells us the real monster is affordability.We saw builders getting desperate-ish — nearly half cutting prices and many offering incentives, so buyers can actually ask for upgrades and rate buydowns.I walked listeners through scary recalls — exploding power banks, fire-prone heaters, and fragile French presses — check cpsc.gov before your gadgets become pyrotechnics.We balanced gloom and hope: remodeling work remains steady in places, but job losses and school closures on the West Coast signal deeper affordability-driven migration. Links referenced in this episode: cpsc.gov/recallsaroundthehouseonline.comyoutube.com/@AroundTheHouseHQfacebook.com/aroundthehousenation Thanks for listening to Around the House with Eric G! Subscribe so you never miss a new episode: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen Watch and follow us on YouTube: Around the House with Eric G: www.youtube.com/@aroundthehouseEricGAround the House HQ: www.youtube.com/@AroundtheHouseHQ Join the Around the House Insider for the full back catalog, exclusive content, early access to new shows and a direct line to Eric G: around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support Has this episode helped with your house? We'd love a quick rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It's the best way to help other homeowners find the show. For more tips, products and past episodes, visit aroundthehouseonline.com Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Portland's downtown hotel crash and a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed contractors both hit homeowners, and we break down why. I saw hotels in Portland go from hundreds of millions to pocket change, and that cascade matters even if you're only worried about a kitchen remodel. We riff on jaw-dropping numbers. The Royal Sonesta was bought for $108M in 2016 and resold for about $6.8M. Yeah, you heard that right. We talk about how hotel and commercial fire sales reshape downtown cores, and why those downtown problems eventually trickle into neighborhood housing markets. I give the bleak-but-useful view: commercial collapse can depress surrounding residential values and change who's buying and how properties get repurposed. Then we flip gears into contractor land. State contractor boards are finally doing the thing we've been nagging about: going after unlicensed, unbonded contractors who show up with a van, a pocket full of cash and zero paperwork. I walk you through the real risks of hiring an unlicensed contractor, from injuries to illegal decks to bad wiring. Then there's the nightmare scenario where your homeowner's policy won't save you because suddenly you're their employer. I share how to check a contractor's license before you hand over a deposit, plus a brutal real-world story of a guy who paid cheap, got $200k of trash work, and doubled down on bad choices. We wrap with product recalls you shouldn't ignore: wire grill brushes, gas patio heaters and knockoff kids' gear. The takeaway? Spend a little more on a licensed and bonded crew, or pay a lot more later, literally and emotionally. Takeaways: I can't believe downtown hotels are selling for pennies on the dollar. We're seeing 70–90% collapses that could trickle into residential housing markets.State contractor boards and NASCLA are running nationwide stings against unlicensed contractors. Nevada's undercover ops exposed unlicensed bidders offering work up to $100k, and that's just the tip of the iceberg.Hiring an unlicensed, unbonded contractor can make you the employer on the hook for injuries, and your homeowner's insurance likely won't cover that mess.Here's how to check a contractor's license: I call the state or local licensing agency, dig through service records, and judge how complaints were handled before handing over any deposit.I watched a homeowner pay $200,000 to an unlicensed crew, then need another $100,000 in repairs because of illegal decks, bad wiring and dangerous workmanship. It's a textbook contractor scam story.Product recalls to know about: wire grill brushes, gas patio heaters and cheap knockoff kids' gear are getting pulled for safety reasons. Don't ignore them, or dinner might fight back. Links referenced in this episode: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalls: www.cpsc.gov/RecallsOregon CCB contractor license lookup: search.ccb.state.or.us/searchNASCLA: www.nascla.orgAround the House: aroundthehouseonline.com Companies and organizations mentioned: Royal SonestaHotel ZagsNASCLA (National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies)Oregon Construction Contractors Board (Oregon CCB)California Contractors State License Board (CSLB)U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)Hillsborough County Sheriff's OfficeSan Luis Obispo County District AttorneyLithonia Lighting Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Forget polite corporate spin — I ripped into something that smells funny and I’m dragging you along. I talk about how Lennar spun off Milrose (they split it off in early 2025), and then Milrose went on a buying spree: more than 700 finished homes across 15 states in about a month, roughly $200 million worth. My antennae went up when Hunter Brook Media (and yes, they’re affiliated with an investment firm) started poking around and found Milrose buying homes that were supposed to be held as land — not rented out. Then filings changed, suddenly allowing Milrose to rent finished houses. Investors filed a class action claiming misleading statements between February 2025 and October 2026, and I walk through the math that suggests Lennar only barely hit delivery targets because of those sales. It’s sketchy, possibly a backroom move to prop up sales numbers and keep stock sentiment buoyant — and then Warren Buffett’s Berkshire quietly ups its stake. I also share my own, annoyingly personal connection: my fiancés son bought a Lennar home and we’re still battling HVAC and wiring issues. Bottom line: whether this is illegal or just ugly accounting, it stinks for homeowners and could ripple through neighborhoods. I’m staying on this story and doing a feature about a Lennar homeowner’s fight — so yeah, expect more receipts soon. Takeaways: I’m calling shenanigans on Lennar’s move to spin off Milrose and then sell finished homes back to it, because it looks like a dodge to prop delivery numbers and tidy up earnings at just the right time.We talked about the investor lawsuit alleging misleading statements between February 2025 and October 2026, and I can’t help but note how odd timing—Lennar misses targets, Milrose pops up buying homes, and Berkshire quietly ups its stake—raises real questions.I’ve seen the homeowner side up close—my fiancée’s son bought from Lennar and we’re still fighting HVAC and wiring issues despite inspections, which makes me skeptical about quality control and buyer protections.We dug into the data and found nuance: a London School of Economics study suggests institutional buying can depress nearby home prices over time, while a Philly Fed paper found single-family rentals might nudge prices up slightly, so the real impact isn’t black-and-white.Heads-up on recalls: big-ticket hazards this week include 3M Scotch laminators that can overheat, crystal glass cups that can shatter into ingestion risks, bedside sleepers posing suffocation dangers, and air rifles firing unexpectedly—so I strongly recommend checking cpsc.gov for anything in your home.On a lighter note, I’m kind of into Medea’s new Straw Wash dishwasher—finally someone designing jets to actually clean metal straws and lids, and yeah, I’ll admit I want one because I’m tired of pre-rinsing and pretending it’s fine. Links referenced in this episode: expedia.comyoutube.comcpsc.gov/recallsfinance.yahoo.comaroundthehouseonline.com

Home ventilation with Ken from Panasonic: ERVs, bath and kitchen exhaust fans, crawlspace moisture and MERV-13 filters for better indoor air. Ventilation is the single biggest thing you can do to keep your home healthy, and John and I got into it with Ken from Panasonic. We talked about why the dusty little $29 fan most builders put in isn't cutting it, and why a quality fan with a real ECM motor pays for itself. Ken has one humming away in his own crawl space that's been running for 18 years. We broke down ERVs: two fans and a special membrane core that swaps heat and moisture, so you get fresh air without a runaway energy bill. Then the part nobody wants to hear: check those filters. In wildfire smoke or high-pollution areas you may be changing them monthly, and a MERV-13 filter makes a real difference. We also busted a few myths. An open window isn't always ventilation, because air needs pressure differences to move. Over-the-range microwaves are about the worst "hood" you can buy. And recirculating hoods just push the grease and gunk around. Kitchens, garages and crawl spaces all make moisture and fumes that feed mold, so vent fans to the outside, not into the attic. In this episode: - Why cheap bath fans are a false economy, and what ECM motors bring to the table - How an ERV works and why it saves energy - MERV-13 filters and how often to change them in wildfire or smoky air - Smart controls that can pause outside air when air quality is bad, and what they cost - Why open windows aren't reliable ventilation - Over-the-range microwaves vs. a properly ducted kitchen hood - Garage and crawlspace ventilation to keep moisture and mold out - Motion-sensor and humidity-sensing fans that turn on so you don't have to remember - Balancing a tight, energy-efficient house with healthy air, code and the builder's budget Thanks for listening to Around the House! Subscribe so you get the latest episode as soon as it posts: https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen Join the Around the House Insider for the back catalog, exclusive content, early access to the show and a direct email to Eric G: https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and reviews about how this info helped with your house. More at https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show. Takeaways: I brag about Panasonic's ECM motors — ours run for decades with minimal fuss, so don't cheap out on fans unless you enjoy mysterious mold and callbacks.We reminded listeners that ventilation isn't just for bathrooms; kitchens, garages, and crawl spaces produce moisture, chemicals, and starch aerosols that feed mold and wreck indoor air if ignored.I explained ERVs: two fans and a special membrane core that swaps heat and moisture so we save energy and keep humidity manageable, not mystical voodoo.We stressed that ERV and ventilation filters must be checked often — in high PM or wildfire-prone areas you'll change them monthly, otherwise your fancy system turns into a black Chia Pet.I admitted smart controls can pause ventilation during wildfire smoke or awful outdoor air, but adding Wi‑Fi sensors and automation costs money, and builders are watching every cent.We warned that open windows don't guarantee ventilation because air movement needs pressure differentials; mechanical systems give predictable, uneventful fresh air while windows gamble with the weather.I roasted over‑the‑range microwaves as the worst ventilation option — they mostly recirculate greasy vapor, so invest in a properly ducted hood that vents outside.We balanced reality: tightening the building envelope saves energy but requires smarter ventilation choices, so pick solutions that hit comfort, health, code, and the builder's budget. Companies mentioned in this episode: Panasonic VentilationPanasonicENERGY STARGore-TexLinkedInFacebookYouTube Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Eric had a family emergency this week so we had to jump into a best of episode as he had to jump on a plane to the midwest: AI remodeling estimates with Instabid.pro: scan your kitchen with your phone, get a contractor bid in minutes. A Best Of on AI estimating. John and I start by poking at those viral 3D-printed house videos. They look great, but I'm not convinced a stack of concrete tubes makes it through a real winter. Then we get to something actually useful: Instabid.pro. You walk a kitchen with your phone, the app recognizes the granite, sinks and cabinets, and it gives you a full bid, a material list and a before-and-after render in about a minute. That takes out the slowest part of remodeling, the back-and-forth measuring and estimating that used to eat days or weeks. For contractors, it handles automatic sub notifications, change-order tracking, labor-hour uploads and approvals, so jobs don't bleed money because somebody forgot the countertop. It's built on decades of field experience and regional pricing, so the numbers reflect where you live. We also compared it with other AI estimating tools, including one demo that came in $60K short on a 600-square-foot addition. AI is not a contractor replacement. It's great at simple visual swaps, but you still need people for the messy surprises of real construction. In this episode: - 3D-printed houses: hype vs. a real winter - How Instabid.pro turns a phone scan into a bid, material list and render - Regional, contractor-based pricing vs. AI tools that come in way off - Contractor tools: sub notifications, change orders, labor hours and auto-approvals - What homeowners should do instead of waiting on bids that never come - Phone thermal imagers for spotting hidden leaks and hot breakers - Instabid's free trial and pilot program Links: https://instabidpro.com Takeaways: We ripped through Instabid.pro — I swear it spits out regional, contractor-priced bids in about a minute, killing the old two-week bid slog.I kept saying AI isn't a magic contractor replacement — it nails simple visual swaps, but we still need humans to handle construction's messy, surprise-filled nuance.We laughed about robot apocalypses, but truthfully Instabid actually helps keep contractors honest with auto sub notifications, change orders, and fewer admin headaches.I told homeowners the new workflow plainly: scan your kitchen with your phone, hit the contractor's Instabid form, and bam — multiple real bids, not sketchy spitballs.We compared the market and found a lot of AI estimating tools wildly off; Instabid leans on decades of trade experience and localized data for much better accuracy.I geeked out about affordable tech like phone thermal imagers — small, fun toys that let us spot hidden leaks or hot breakers without ripping open walls.We emphasized how contractors can customize parts and pricing, set auto-approvals, and protect margins, so the platform’s speed doesn't mean careless, underpriced work.I openly invited listeners to try the Instabid Pro trial and even call the founder — no-BS transparency, a pilot program, and a promise to build what contractors actually need. Links referenced in this episode: youtube.comhomeadvisor.comhouzz.cominstabidpro.com Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Buying new construction with 7% mortgage rates: builder rate buy-downs, pre-drywall inspections, buyer's agents and this week's product recalls. This week's Punch List is a quick one. I recorded from a hotel room in Rochester, MN, near the Mayo Clinic, because family comes first, so forgive the scratchy voice. Next week we're back with a fresh show. The housing market is weird right now. Mortgage rates are over 7%, but prices are drifting down, so if you can handle the payment it may be a smart time to buy. Builders are getting creative to move houses. They're buying down points, cutting their realtor commissions and, in some cases, cutting corners on the build. I walk through how a builder buying down two points can steer you toward new construction, and why that sweet monthly payment can come with drywall surprises later. I also don't think we're going back to 3% rates. 5% is the new comfort zone. If you're buying new, get a local new-construction inspector on a pre-construction contract to check the concrete, framing and pre-drywall. And don't cheap out on your agent. When the builder knocks commission down to 1%, you lose the person who's supposed to fight for you. We also ran through the recalls, including propane fireplace lava rocks that can explode and trimmer mowers that can catch fire. And I had a few words for the internet folks upset that Tillamook is Halal-certified. It's about how the cheese is made. Do two seconds of research. In this episode: - Why falling prices and 7%+ rates make timing and math everything - How builder point buy-downs work and how they steer buyers - Hiring a new-construction inspector for concrete, framing and pre-drywall checks - Why paying a market-rate buyer's agent protects you - Where long-term mortgage rates are likely to settle - Recalls: propane fireplace inserts and lava rocks, recalled trimmer mowers - The Tillamook Halal-certification panic Links: https://aroundthehouseonline.com Takeaways: I'm on the road in Rochester with a shot voice from a pre-90s hotel room, so forgive the rasp while I walk you through why high interest rates make buying tricky even as prices fall.We think right now is a weird sweet spot: prices are dropping, but seven-percent mortgage pain makes timing and math everything, so buying only makes sense if you can stomach higher payments short-term for potential long-term gains.Builders are aggressive—buying down points and skimping on workmanship—so I recommend locking in a local new-construction certified inspector for concrete, framing, and pre-drywall checks to catch shortcuts early.Don't cut realtor corners: when builders slash commissions to one percent you lose an advocate; pay market rate for an agent who will actually fight for you and protect future costs.Heads-up on recalls and safety: stop using certain propane fireplace inserts and recalled trimmer mowers, and check with manufacturers or REI for fixes—small products can create big fire or crash risks.And for some delightful social-media nonsense—Tillamook being Halal-certified isn't a cultural takeover, it's better cheese production choices; I call out the dumb panic and remind you to do two seconds of research. Links referenced in this episode: aroundthehouseonline.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Around the HouseMayo ClinicTillamookSnow PeakDr. Power EquipmentDecathlonVan RyselREIFord Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Walk your floor plans at full scale with Joe Matejka of Walk Your Plans: life-size blueprints that catch home design mistakes before you build. What if you could walk through your new house or remodel before anybody pours concrete? Walk Your Plans projects your blueprints at exact scale on the floor, and Joe Matejka told us builders and designers catch over 90% of pre-construction mistakes this way. That's a lot of $20K to $50K fixes that never happen. I'll admit I used to tape out kitchen islands with foam board so clients could picture them. Amateur hour. Joe shared the story of a 26-person lodge in Idaho where they realized too late that "we got a good room when we wanted a great room." That's exactly the kind of mistake this prevents. Islands get moved a lot once people actually walk the space, and you can drop your real furniture into the scaled room on an iPad to find out whether that sectional or dining table will actually fit. We also talked about why Joe went with floor projection and iPad-based 3D instead of VR (vertigo and liability), how the business has grown to 58 locations with a goal of 120, and why hospitals, restaurants and lenders love anything that cuts risk. In this episode: - How life-size blueprint projection works - Catching over 90% of pre-construction mistakes before you build - Kitchen island placement and real-world traffic flow - Testing your actual furniture in the plan on an iPad - Why they picked floor projection over VR - Commercial projects: hospitals, restaurants, banks and insurers - Growth to 58 locations (goal: 120) after a viral video with 37 million views Links: https://walkyourplans.com Takeaways: We project blueprints exactly to scale on our studio floor so I can literally walk the space before a single brick gets laid — that pre‑walk 'aha' moment prevents headaches and dumb surprises down the road.I learned we routinely catch over 90% of pre‑construction mistakes during these walkthroughs, which translates to real time and cost savings versus crying into a $20k–$50k fix later.As a kitchen designer I’ll tell you, we move islands all the time — roughly 65% — because physically navigating the plan changes design from theoretical to actually usable for two people cooking together.We drop your exact furniture into the scale model via iPad, so I can prove whether that beloved sectional or giant dining table will fit, avoiding glorious returns and awkward living‑room do‑overs.I found VR is flashy but often makes people dizzy, so we built a low‑nausea, on‑the‑floor solution that’s a tool, not a toy — practical, tactile, and way less liability prone.We’re scaling fast (58 locations now, 120 goal) and our viral social presence proved demand is real — people worldwide want to walk their plans, not squint at tiny PDFs.We help commercial clients, hospitals, banks and insurers reduce massive liability by catching layout failures digitally early — sometimes preventing million‑dollar screwups instead of expensive late‑stage reframing.Ultimately, I love seeing clients walk out smiling and confident; we turn anxiety into belief, speed up approvals, and get builders, architects and homeowners on the same page — which, honestly, feels like magic. Links referenced in this episode: walkyourplans.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Walk Your PlansOur House FurnitureAround the HouseInstagramYouTubeFacebookNational Association of Home BuildersKBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show)IBS (International Builders' Show)Meditech Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detector tips from Kidde for Fire Prevention Week: new UL standards, low-level CO alerts, lithium battery fire risks. Smoke and carbon monoxide detector tips from Kidde's Stephanie Berzinski and Jason Kohm: new UL standards, low-level CO alerts, lithium battery risks. Smoke and CO detectors aren't the dinosaurs our parents screwed into the ceiling. The UL rewrites turned them into little computers that can tell a real fire from burnt toast, so people stop ripping them off the wall. Kidde's newer units will even nag you at the 10-year mark so you finally replace them. Jason walked us through the UL changes that speed up detection, plus low-level CO alerts at 35 ppm, which are a big deal for kids, seniors and pets. Carbon monoxide often comes from outside the house: generators, contractor vans, pool heaters, a car running in the garage. So even all-electric homes need CO detection. And when you travel, pack a battery CO alarm, because only a handful of states require them in hotels. We also covered lithium-ion battery risks. Cheap knockoff batteries and chargers can start fires fast, so buy UL- or ETL-listed and don't leave tool and phone batteries on the charger all the time. Then the basics: test monthly, check the date on the back, replace anything over ten years old, keep extinguishers on every level, and aim at the base of the fire. In this episode: - How the new UL standards make alarms smarter and cut false alarms - Low-level CO alerts (35 ppm) for kids, seniors and pets - Surprise CO sources: generators, vans, pool heaters, cars in the garage - Why to pack a CO alarm for hotels and rentals - Combination alarms that monitor VOCs, air quality, radon and gas - Lithium-ion battery and knockoff charger fire risks - Alarm maintenance: monthly tests, manufacture dates, 10-year replacement, compressed-air cleaning - Fire extinguisher placement, and why you never use water on a grease fire - Making a family escape plan, and calling the fire department's non-emergency line for help Links: https://kidde.com · https://cause4alarm.org · https://portalarm.org https://aroundthehouseonline.com Takeaways: I loved how we explained the UL changes — modern alarms are basically tiny computers that actually know the difference between a real fire and burnt toast, so people stop taking them down in frustration.We warned that carbon monoxide is sneaky and often comes from outside sources like generators, contractor vans, pool heaters, or a running car in the garage, so I keep saying: even electric homes need CO detection.I pushed the travel tip hard: pack a simple AA carbon monoxide alarm when you stay in hotels, rentals, or Airbnbs, because only a handful of states require proper detection and you can’t trust every property.We drove home maintenance basics — test your alarms monthly, check the manufacturing date on the back, replace units older than ten years, and clean sensors with compressed air so false chirps don’t wreck your sleep.I got passionate about fire extinguishers and placement: have multiple extinguishers per level, use a kitchen-rated unit (not water on grease!), know to aim at the base, and stash one near bedrooms for quick grabs.We dug into lithium-ion battery risks — cheap knockoff chargers and batteries can chain-ignite; I recommend buying UL/ETL‑listed batteries and keeping tool and phone batteries off continuous charge, ideally in a metal cabinet.We hyped the smarter features we love: low-level CO alerts for vulnerable folks, air quality and toxic chemical monitors, plus new radon and gas detectors — layering detection really gives us extra time and calm.We closed with a practical nudge: practice a family fire escape plan now — map two exits per room, include pets and grandparents, and if you need help call your fire department’s non‑emergency line. Links referenced in this episode: kidde.comcause4alarm.orgportalarm.org Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

This week on The Punch List, I break down my favorite Amazon Prime Big Deal Days picks for your home, from Roborock robot vacuums and Lutron Caséta dimmers to BORA sawhorses and a Chamberlain myQ video keypad. We also cover a big batch of product recalls and what Berkshire Hathaway's $8.5 billion Taylor Morrison deal means for housing. Amazon Prime Big Deal Days are happening right now — I’m talking hot steals like Roborock robot vacuums, Lutron Caséta dimmers, a bargain Rove dash cam and even Chamberlain MyQ garage video keypads, but heads up: these Prime-only prices end Wednesday at midnight PT, so move fast if you want the good stuff. We walk through the best picks I’m eyeballing (yes, I own a Roborock and yes, it’s glorious), call out the sleeper bargains like steel Bora sawhorses and wire for DIY projects, and remind you that some of these sale prices only pop up once or twice a year. On the safety front we got a nasty batch of recalls — everything from 4.4 million Walmart grill brushes (do not eat metal shavings, just don’t) to rechargeable hand warmers that can catch fire, sketchy lamps, and cargo e-bike seat-post bolts that can break — so we tell you what to toss, return or quarantine immediately. Big-picture housing news: Berkshire Hathaway just paid $8.5 billion for Taylor Morrison and merged it with Clayton, joining other deep-pocketed buyers scooping up builders, which might be a sign we’re nearing a market bottom but won’t magically fix affordability overnight. I mix a little reality check about interest rates and inventory with a reminder that fewer new builds and smarter owner incentives could help kick the market back into gear. Stick around for our game plan: quick shopping tips for Deal Days, what to do if you own one of the recalled items, and why these builder buyouts matter to anyone eyeing a house in the next year. Takeaways: We rushed this early midweek Punch List because Amazon Prime Big Deal Days are live — snag Roborock vacuums, Lutron Caseta dimmers, dash cams, and heavy-duty Bora sawhorses at sharp, time-limited prices if you act before midnight Pacific.I called out the Rove R2 dash cam marketing — it upscales to “4K” so don’t expect true cinema-grade footage, but it’s still a solid budget option for front-and-rear coverage.We went through a heavy batch of safety recalls — electric cargo bikes, multiple brands of rechargeable hand warmers, floor lamps, grill brushes, and camping immersion heaters all pose real fire, burn, or ingestion hazards, so stop using recalled items and get refunds or replacements.I unpacked the Berkshire Hathaway buy of Taylor Morrison and their bigger stakes in other builders — investors (including Japanese firms) are scooping up discounted homebuilders, which could be a sign we’re approaching a housing-market bottom, but it’s no guarantee.We flagged the broader housing reality: too many homes on the market versus buyers and stubbornly high interest rates mean demand needs to tighten and builders must slow construction before prices and activity normalize.Pro tip from me — if you’re doing projects, Amazon’s Deal Days are a great time to buy wire, tools, power units, and smart-home gear, but always double-check specs, prime-only restrictions, and return policies before the impulse buy. Links referenced in this episode: amazon.comROBOROCK: https://a.co/d/01oXOzKqLutron: https://a.co/d/0ijXfrc9Rove: https://a.co/d/0b6s8yERLevoit: https://a.co/d/09WTrwQPBORA: https://a.co/d/09RTN99f Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

This week on The Punch List, I break down why buyers finally have the upper hand, with mortgage rates back above 7% and Redfin reporting 57.9% more sellers than buyers in August. We run through the latest product recalls, and I recap emceeing Rock the Locks, where I proposed to Alisa backstage and she said yes. We kick this midweek Punch List off with that high-energy recap before diving into the real stuff. We dig into fresh housing data: mortgage rates have crept back above 7% (Freddie Mac ~7.03%, Bankrate ~7.33%), existing-home sales hit a 2026 low, and Redfin says there were about 57.9% more sellers than buyers in August — the most lopsided market on record. That imbalance means tons of price cuts (Denver hit 31.4% of listings with cuts; Portland about 30.5%), builders are even buying down interest rates by a couple points in some markets to compete, and remodeling activity is stalling as homeowners hold off on big projects. We also run a hard-hitting recalls roundup — from online mattresses failing flammability rules to smart glasses that can overheat, reclining-chair battery packs sold on Amazon, heated blankets, infrared saunas that can short and overheat, pool heaters risking carbon monoxide, and more — so if you’ve got any of that gear, please go check it. Bottom line: great music and good vibes at the festival, but the housing market’s getting messy and your stuff might be a recall away from drama — we walk you through what to watch and what to do next, plus I sneak in a teaser for our weekend show and the new YouTube reviews (generator and one-person grill tested at the fest). Takeaways: I emceed Rock the Locks last weekend, proposed to Alisa backstage, and honestly couldn't stop smiling — it was an epic, music-fueled highlight that reminded me why live events matter.We're seeing mortgage rates around seven percent (and sometimes higher), which is squeezing buyers, cooling sales, and making now a real window for renters with savings to pounce.I dug into Redfin's August data — about 57.9% more sellers than buyers nationally — and that lopsided inventory gives buyers real leverage in many markets.We're watching builders buy down interest by as much as two points, so new construction with lower rates and big warranties is outcompeting comparable existing homes right now.We ran the recall scoreboard on the show — everything from tens of thousands of flammable online mattresses to overheating smart glasses and saunas — so please check cpsc.gov and double-check what you bought.I'm seeing remodeling stall and contractors reporting record cancellations, meaning homeowners are favoring repairs over big projects and planning more cautiously this cycle. Links referenced in this episode: cpsc.gov Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

Fall decorating trends with interior designer Wendy Glaister: warm layered lighting, rich colors over greige, smart home timers and holiday prep. Interior designer Wendy Glaister of Wendy Glaister Interiors joined me to talk about making your house feel warmer and brighter as the days get shorter. After years of greige, people are moving toward richer colors, plaids, florals and Ralph Lauren-inspired looks, plus timeless details like Greek key patterns. We talked about layered, warmer lighting and simple smart-home setups that put lamps, fireplaces, blinds and thermostats on timers. Then decorating do's and don'ts: easy on the gnomes, harsh scents, bright pumpkin orange, oversized skeletons and quote decor. Wendy shared ideas for setting a seasonal table with fine china and vintage pieces, and getting ahead on decluttering and pantry prep. We also covered regional gotchas like wasps and spiders moving into your wreath, planning for power outages, and why you don't want to start a major remodel during the holidays, with shutdowns, shipping delays and scheduling headaches. In this episode: - Fall color trends: moving past greige to richer colors, plaids and florals - Layered, warmer lighting for shorter days - Smart timers for lamps, fireplaces, blinds and thermostats - Fall decorating do's and don'ts - Seasonal table settings with fine china and vintage pieces - Decluttering, pantry prep and emergency power planning - Why to avoid starting a big remodel over the holidays Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.