For real estate, a cautiously rosy forecast
The chief economist for the National Association of Realtors says the economic outlook should be sunny by spring, and housing will play a big part.

Home Front
Tips for preparing the big feast

Community Living: Board may be just doing its job
Question: The board of our homeowners association is about to enter into a contract for the painting of our villas without membership approval. The only direct contract approval authority contained in our documents concerns hiring a management company.

Playing nice?
Builders and remodeling contractors offer these suggestions to help homeowners survive a construction process (and help the builders keep their sanity).

Homebuyer U
Free Home Buyer Seminar for the first-time home purchaser is presented by the Clearwater Neighborhood Housing Services Inc. from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (lunch provided) Nov. 17 and Dec. 15 at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 1500 N Pennsylvania Ave., Clearwater. Those who complete the seminar will receive a certificate that could provide access to special mortgage loan products and subsidies. A one-hour orientation overview of the home-buying process is also offered to prospective homeowners on selected Thursday evenings. Call (727) 442-4155 to register or for more information.