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Home improvement fraud accused facing a possible life sentence is arrested again on same charge | Local News

BENNINGTON — A home improvement contractor already convicted of multiple felony offenses and facing a slew of current charges in a long-running series of home improvement rip-offs was arrested once again for the same crimes while out on bail. On Monday morning, Robert Billings Jr., 50, was arraigned on a new count of home improvement fraud for allegedly receiving advance funds on a pressure tank replacement and never making good on the repair, or returning any of the money. According to a police affidavit in the latest case, Billings received a check for $2,850 from a resident in Sandgate in…
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4 projects that will grow your home equity (and 4 that won’t)

Home equity loans and HELOCs, which are secured by your home, may help you access financing with lower rates than alternatives. Getty Images/iStockphoto high mortgage rates, low inventoryand elevated home prices have left many Americans postponing their homebuying plans. On the upside, however, most who bought homes over the past few years have seen a sizeable increase in their equity. If you’re looking to make home improvements that’ll further boost your home’s value — or help maintain it when prices fall — a home equity loans or line of credit can be a good option. Both allow you to access…
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Local man accused of home improvement fraud | Local News

A man accused of taking a local couple’s money in return for building improvements that he never worked on in 2022 was arrested in the two cases against him last week. Brian E. Miller, 58, of Claysburg, faces charges of false statements to induce agreements for home improvement services in two cases. Both cases were filed on Nov. 2, and Miller was appointed on Friday. One of the alleged victims told police she and her husband had hired Miller to replace the roof of their residence and paid him on Aug. 8, 2022, for the supplies needed to fix the…
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2024 Media Streaming Stats You Should Know – Forbes Home

In an era where digital media consumption has become a significant part of our daily lives, understanding streaming trends is more crucial than ever. As we continue to embrace the convenience and diversity offered by streaming services, it’s important to delve into the patterns and preferences shaping this landscape. To provide insightful and accurate data on current streaming habits, Forbes Home commissioned a comprehensive survey, aiming to capture the essence of America’s streaming culture in 2024. To get a clearer picture of the streaming behaviors and preferences among Americans, Forbes Home partnered with the market research company OnePoll. The objective…
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Home improvement contractors could become extinct in Louisiana • Louisiana Illuminator

Under a proposed law in Louisiana, homeowners would have to hire a licensed general contractor for any home improvement work valued over $10,000. Some worry the measure will destroy the market for trim carpenters, fence builders and other handymen who can perform jobs up to $75,000 under current law. Currently, the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) regulates two different types of residential construction professionals, aside from mold remediation experts: the licensed general residential contractor, which is required for jobs priced above $75,000; and the certified home improvement contractor, who can perform work between $7,500 and $75,000. Both must…
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Is the Remodeling Boom Over—or Just on Pause?

During the pandemic, Americans became ultra-focused on upgrading their homes, taking on remodeling and DIY projects in record numbers. But as recession fears mount, more homeowners are putting on the brakes and showing less willingness to dole out large amounts of money on home improvement projects. New data this week shows home improvement giants like Lowe’s and Home Depot posting lower profits. These firms are also downgrading their sales outlooks for the year. Home improvement experts say consumers are becoming jittery about the economy and are moving from large-scale renovations to smaller, cheaper projects—or just scrapping their renovation plans altogether.…
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5 home-improvement projects that don’t cost a lot but bring big payoffs

A fresh coat of paint is among the low-cost improvements that can make a big difference in your home’s appearance. Photo courtesy Getty Images. Credits: Getty Images Whether you’re looking to sell your home or just want to make it more livable, spring is typically the ideal time of year to get a head start on home improvement projects before peak renovation season begins. For those who would like to improve their homes but are hesitant because it will cost too much money, don’t be discouraged. Homeowners can get payback and joy from several smaller, lower-dollar improvement projects, according to…