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• As Market Tightens, Home Buyers Find Out They Need Cash

  Never mind interest rates. Home buyers in hot markets around the country are finding out that they need to show up with cash — and move fast, or lose out.

• Homes For The Wildfire Threat

  Experts say homeowners should get prepared for what could be a bad year for wildfires.

• Michigan Builders Feeling Labor Pinch

  Down and out a few years ago, Michigan’s building industry is coming back. But a shortage of skilled workers worries builders.

• Plaster Repair Strategies

  Minimize demolition by patching cracks, resurfacing with fabric, or adding a layer of drywall

• Carpet Board

  NyloBoard composite decking contains recycled carpet fiber instead of sawdust

• Wall-Outlet Toilet

  The two-piece Riose toilet is designed for retrofits where the floor won’t accommodate a drain pipe

• Is Florida’s Insurance Industry Ready for the Big One?

  After years without a blockbuster hurricane, Florida’s insurance funds are looking solid. But a controversial shakeup is raising eyebrows, and a heavy storm season could still bring trouble.

• Texas Windstorm Insurance Reform Bill Fails, But Could Be Revived

  Texas Windstorm Insurance Reform Bill Fails, But Could Be Revived

• New York City to Revamp Sandy Rebuilding Program, Says Mayor

  New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg says the city is ready to step up its Sandy rebuilding program with a reorganized effort called “NYC Build It Back.”

• Florida Builders See Boom on the Way

  A Southwest Florida panel of builders and realtors agreed this month that the Manatee-Sarasota region is heating up fast. And they weren’t talking about the weather.