Frommer's Lists Asheville in World's Top 12 Destinations

Asheville Citizen-Times

Where in the world should you take a trip next year?  The editors of one of the country's top travel publications suggests Asheville.

First Home in The Settings to be Featured in Parade of Homes

A new community in the Town of Black Mountain is setting the gold standard for residential living throughout the southeast.  The Setting of Black Mountain is the first community from The Settings Development Companies, and its values of land preservation, elegant yet sensible construction and local involvement are leading the way for other communities throughout the southeast.

Building "Green" for Comfort and Long-Term Cost Savings

By John Sullivan  (as published in the Asheville Citizen-Times)

Living in one of the most beautiful areas of the country, current and perspective residents of Western North Carolina understand the importance of environmental sensitivity, particularly as it applies to new construction.  Recognizing this fact, Asheville-based Home Energy Partners (HEP), was created to work closely with builders using state-of-the-art equipment, cutting-edge techniques and exotic new materials, to create healthier, more energy-efficient, environmentally sensitive homes.

Sullivan Certified as Clear Water Contractor

General Manager Sean Sullivan attended the eight-hour Clear Water Contractor Training Program sponsored by the Watershed Association of the Tuckaseegee Ricer (WATR) on March 22, 2006 and was certified as a Clear Water Contractor.  Training topics included: modern erosion control techniques and erosion control law; the most environmentally effective and cost effective techniques for erosion control for different terrains in the mountains; and ideas for reducing labor and materials costs while protecting water quality and adjoining properties.

AHBA Board Meets with U.S. Congressman Charles Taylor

Members of the Board of Directors of the Asheville Homebuilders Association present U.S. Congressman Charles Taylor a check from BUILDPAC, the Building Political Action Committee.  During the meeting, the AHBA Directors discussed the building industry, its challenges and concerns, and its positive impact on Western North Carolina.  Representing the AHBA were, L to R, Sean Sullivan, 2nd Vice President, Thomas McClain, Director, Derek Weekely, Director, Congressman Taylor, Stan Caton, BUILDPAC Chairman, and Howard Ferree, President. 

Using Technology to Save Time (and Money!)

By John Sullivan  (as published in the Asheville Citizen-Times)

Building or remodeling a vacation, second home, or retirement home when owners live elsewhere can be a frustrating and expensive experience.  Living Stone Construction has developed a way to effectively communicate with out-of-state owners using modern technology, i.e., the Internet.

How do I choose a Builder?

By Leslie Hinsz

Finding and choosing the right builder for your new home can sometimes be a daunting task. In Asheville we are fortunate to have many excellent builders and 229 of them are members of the Asheville Home Builders Association!

Highlights of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 for Individuals

During 2006, individuals can make energy-conscious purchases that will provide tax benefits when filling out their tax returns next year. The new law provides tax credits for making your principal residence, which must be in the United States, more energy efficient and for buying certain energy efficient items. At the same time the law provides credits for various types of alternative motor vehicles, including hybrids.