http://www.hgtvpro.com The latest industry trends in the home building industry. en-us Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:48:30 GMT Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:48:30 GMT http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 Fastfwd Rss_Export v1.0 http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_trends/article/0,2624,HPRO_26519_6022866,00.html Shugart Enterprises — a North Carolina construction company targeting first-time, move-up and empty-nester home buyers — has completed more homes certified to the National Green Building Standard than any other home builder in the nation. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:24:00 GMT http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_trends/article/0,2624,HPRO_26519_6022866,00.html http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_trends/article/0,2624,HPRO_26519_5946374,00.html In light of the downturn in the housing market and overall economy, homeowners are still adding energy-efficient options and low maintenance produces, while showing a lessened interest in special features such as home theaters, guest wings and three-car garages. Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:53:00 GMT http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_trends/article/0,2624,HPRO_26519_5946374,00.html http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_trends/article/0,2624,HPRO_26519_5946370,00.html Weatherization is a term to describe various improvements made to buildings and homes to optimize energy efficiency. According to the DOE, on average, weatherization reduces heating bills by 32% and overall energy bills by about $350 per year at current prices. Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:36:00 GMT http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/nws_ind_nws_trends/article/0,2624,HPRO_26519_5946370,00.html