The Internet Age Open House: Has it Become Irrelevant?

Published: December 30, 2013

In the old days, sellers could rely on open houses to give their properties wide exposure to potential buyers.

What's With the Great Disappearing App?

Published: November 25, 2013

Choose anything you want to do and look for the top 500 (or 400 or 250) applicable applications (apps). Then visit some of their websites or try to find them on iTunes.

Aha! Moments From Science Class

By: FOXmls.com

Published: December 20, 2013

"Exciting" or "cool" isn't how most kids would describe their last math or science class. But when lessons are less about listening and more about doing, that changes.

Make 2014 the Year You Complete That Home DIY Project

By: FOXmls.com

Published: December 15, 2013

Many people are planning to complete a much-awaited home DIY project in 2014. However, turning your home into a haven can make your life - and your family's - a long-term nightmare. It's important to stay on time and on budget. But you can do it. Here's how.

Berry Christmas Dessert

Have yourself a very merry and delicious Christmas with this sweet dessert dish

Serves 4

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup whipping cream
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2/3 cup frozen red berries (strawberries, raspberries, etc.)

Directions:

North America's Luxury Home Market Is Booming

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 30, 2013

As the economy recovers, luxury properties are very much in demand, particularly in large urban areas. Homes or vacation properties worth $1 million or more are selling quickly, often at or just below asking prices. And they're taking the housing markets in many areas along with them.

Can You Shape up in Just Minutes a Day?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 25, 2013

Are you looking for a quick way to shape up? Well, so are the experts.

Holiday Parties: Even Santa Loves Cookie Swaps

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 20, 2013

The holidays are all about entertaining - but multiple parties can strain calendars and budgets. So why not consider hosting a cookie swap. These provide a great opportunity for you to catch up with your friends and their friends, and can even help you prepare for more entertaining.

How to Handle Multiple Offer Situations

By: FOXmls.com

Published: November 15, 2013

When selling your home, having more than one offer to consider is a great position to be in. However, there are some rules of thumb for handling the sale of your property in a multiple-offer situation.

Sticky Soy Glazed Turkey Legs

Serves 4

4 turkey drumsticks
Salt and pepper to taste
1 medium onion, sliced 1/4-inch thick
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup soy sauce

Directions:

Taking the Right Steps to Sell Your Home

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 30, 2013

Even though making the decision to sell your home isn't easy, the real work - actually selling it - has just begun. Fortunately, expert help is available from your local real estate agent.

Total Tech Hotels: The Future is Now

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 25, 2013

Walking into some hotels can feel like a trip to the future; high-tech hotels are popping up across the globe, offering guests some futuristic technological amenities. And they seem to keep them coming back.

Travel Apps Designed for Wherever Your Road Takes You

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 20, 2013

Whether we're alone, or on a family vacation, traveling can present all sorts of challenges. Even the best-laid plans go awry, but thanks to our smartphones, we're always in a position to handle wherever the road takes us, providing, of course, our phones are equipped with the proper applications.

There are apps for everything today, and a plethora of them are focused on travel. Here are some free travel apps to download before you take off:

Extreme Weather is the New Housing Crisis: Prepare Now

By: FOXmls.com

Published: October 15, 2013

The National Geographic channel has coined the phrase "Disaster Doesn't Wait" to promote its TV show entitled, Doomsday Preppers. The show features families preparing for economic, political and natural disasters, and as the phrase suggests, they're preparing because disasters can happen...and they don't wait until we're ready for them.

Ghostly Coconut Macaroons

The Yields about 24 macaroons

4 large egg whites
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons orange zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 cups sweetened shredded coconut
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate chopped and slowly melted in the microwave.

Directions:

Make Your Neighborhood Everything it Can be

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 30, 2013

Our neighborhoods are where we spend a majority of our time and where our kids first learn about the outside world. So, isn't it important to make them everything they can be?

Take Your Computer Pill: It's Good For You

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 25, 2013

Swallowable micro-computers are revolutionizing health care - and raising concerns.

Time to Break Out the Zombie Costumes

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 20, 2013

For us, Halloween is all about kids, scary costumes, and candy - lots of candy. But, in fact, October 31 has a somewhat sinister past. By looking back at the history of this annual scare-fest, it's easy to see how ghost and zombie costumes are everywhere on Halloween night.

Young Buyers are Driving the Luxury Real Estate Market

By: FOXmls.com

Published: September 15, 2013

Generation Ys, who have always fancied the finer things in life, are bringing this mentality to the real estate market by rapidly acquiring high-priced real estate. And they are not stopping at one purchase; this generation is more likely to buy several properties as investments.

Honey Orange Lamb Chops

The perfect recipe for national honey month!

Serves 4

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 lamb chops, about 3/4 inches thick
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Directions:

How an Aging Population is Changing our Cities

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 30, 2013

Local and national governments have long focused on making communities good places for families, children, young adults and the disadvantaged. But as America ages - by 2050, it is estimated that more than 32 million Americans will be over the age of 80 - there is a demand for national planning on how to best care for seniors and the elderly while avoiding a national debt crisis.

Give Your Child a Great Start With a New-Look Bedroom

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 25, 2013

A new school year can both frighten and thrill children. Help them cope with changes out of their control by involving them in a change they can control: decorating their bedroom.

Why Retweeting May Necessitate a Retwaction

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 20, 2013

They say "Googling before you type is the new think before you speak" - a relevant reminder in a social climate where we quickly like or share Web material.

The Real Truth Behind "Reality" Real Estate Shows

By: FOXmls.com

Published: August 15, 2013

As reality programming continues to dominate the television world, real estate shows have proven to be a real hit among viewers. Shows such as Million Dollar Listing, Love It or List It, House Hunters and Property Virgins all depict the experiences of real people looking for real homes.

Coconut Curry with Fall Vegetables

Serves 4

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
1 tablespoon ground turmeric
1 tablespoon mild curry powder
3 cups bite-sized fall vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, squash, etc.)
1 can coconut milk
2 cups water
1/3 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste
Dried chili flakes to taste (optional)

Directions:

Faced With a Low Appraisal Check Out Your Options

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 30, 2013

Lenders rely on appraisals. So, if the appraisal on your dream home comes in lower than expected, it may kill your deal. But there are solutions.

Can you Ignore Those Best Before Dates?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 25, 2013

A simple misconception is responsible for millions of dollars of wasted food in households across North America.

Your Dog May be Smarter Than you Are

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 20, 2013

After watching yet another pet trick on YouTube, you might think the dog population is divided into dumb dogs (yours) and smart dogs (theirs); but according to Brian Hare, associate anthropology professor and founder of the Canine Cognition Center at Duke University, you'd be wrong. Hare believes all dogs are geniuses in their own way.

Opt for Roof Repairs, Not Granite, When Renovating

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 15, 2013

When homeowners hear the words "renovate" or "remodel", most will have visions of granite countertops and hardwood floors dancing in their heads.

Flat-Fee: List Your Home For Sale Or Rent In Minutes

By: FOXmls.com

Published: July 1, 2012

This is the most complete REALTOR MLS data collection tool in the industry all for a Flat-Fee.

Arroz Con Pollo for a Crowd

Serves 10

8 cups chicken stock
6 chicken breasts
3/4 cup vegetable oil
2 finely chopped onions
3 cloves minced garlic
3 cups seeded, chopped tomatoes
2 grated carrots
2 tbl red wine vinegar
1/8 cup tomato paste
2 tsp achiote powder
2 tsp dried oregano
3 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
5 cups long grain white rice
1 cup canned or cooked peas
1/2 cup stuffed olives
Chopped cilantro and lime wedges

Directions:

Buying or Remodeling: Advice is Just a Click Away

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 30, 2013

North Americans love their toys, and we’re turning to our devices for advice on everything from remodeling projects to home searches. According to a joint study by Google and the National Association of Realtors, real estate searches on Google.com have increased by 253 percent in the past four years.

Today's Foodies are Turning to "Social Cooking"

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 25, 2013

Visiting the latest restaurant used to be a way of life; now it's all about DIY.

It's summer: Is Your Deck Where It's at...or Where it Was?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 20, 2013

Ah summer. Is there anything better than sitting on the deck with family and friends, cold drink in hand and burgers sizzling on the BBQ? Yes, your patio is calling. Unfortunately, it's calling for help.

How to Buy Your Dream Home Even if It's Not For Sale

By: FOXmls.com

Published: June 15, 2013

Have you ever driven through a new neighborhood only to turn the corner, and there it is...your dream home?

Greek Shrimp with Feta

Serves 4

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
2 1/4 cups chopped peeled ripe tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 pounds uncooked frozen shrimp, thawed
4 ounces good-quality feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Directions:

The Growing Trend to Micro Mini Housing

By: FOXmls.com

Published: May 30, 2013

Shrinking homes are a growing trend. More and more people are choosing to live in tiny houses - homes that are often less than 500 square feet.

How to Make Your Family Fight to do the Laundry

By: FOXmls.com

Published: May 25, 2013

Let's face it, laundry isn't one of our favorite household chores.

A Peaceful Use of Drones: Aerial Videos

By: FOXmls.com

Published: May 20, 2013

Unmanned aerial vehicles - nicknamed drones - have seamlessly made the leap from military to peaceful uses, attracting an entirely new (and wide) audience who just love them for their role in creating amazing aerial photography.

Is it all in a Name? Ask Residents of Country Club Drive

By: FOXmls.com

Published: May 15, 2013

Residents of Wisteria Lane, USA might have found their property values rising during the long run of the Desperate Housewives TV series, but they've got nothing on the people who live on Country Club Drive.

Banana "Ice Cream" with Caramel Sauce

Serves 4

4 medium bananas
1/3 cup candied or toasted nuts (optional)
1/2 cup light brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Which Comes First … the Buy or the Sell?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: April 30, 2013

When a hermit crab decides it's time for a new home, it scopes out a new shell before vacating its current accommodation.

Singletons are Living Alone ... and Liking it

By: FOXmls.com

Published: April 25, 2013

It used to be a stigma: bachelors and spinsters sadly missing the pitter-patter of tiny feet and the companionship of a spouse. But that was then; this is now.

Walkies can be fun ... for Fido and you

By: FOXmls.com

Published: April 20, 2013

If you like to sleep in, it can be hard to get up and take Fido for a walk. But there are ways to inject fun into morning walks (a.k.a. walkies) for you and your furry friend:

Bad Neighbors can be Hazardous to Your Property Values

By: FOXmls.com

Published: April 15, 2013

It's every homeowner's worst nightmare:

Your new neighbor has decided to tear down the charming colonial and build a monster home. Or he's turned his backyard into a junkyard. Or she's having noisy parties.

Parsley-Crusted Roast Beef

This easy family favorite serves 4-6 people

1 (2 to 2 1/2 pound) boneless rump roast
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon garlic salt
Salt and pepper
1 bunch parsley, finely chopped

Directions:

Reports Trace the History of Your Home-To-Be

By: FOXmls.com

Published: March 30, 2013

A house is probably the biggest purchase you'll make. So finding out all you can about the home-to-be is essential.

Craving an Out-of-This-World Vacation?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: March 25, 2013

If you're looking for an out-of-this-world-vacation, you might be able to do just that ... literally! Astronomers have discovered what could be another Earth.

Smarties Makers Got it Right After All

By: FOXmls.com

Published: March 20, 2013

Concerned your guests may not like your special blend of hot chocolate? Try serving it in a red or orange cup.

Bring Home 2013 Design Trends This Spring

By: FOXmls.com

Published: March 15, 2013

Spring has sprung, the grass has riz ... I wonder where the plumber is.

This riff on the poem, "Spring in the Bronx," highlights other rites of the season: renovating and redecorating.

Citrusy Quinoa with Grilled Asparagus

Serves 5

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 oranges and 1 lime
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups water
1-2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
1 tablespoon finely chopped mint
2 pounds green asparagus, woody ends snapped off
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste

Directions:

Growing Out of Your Home? You're Not Alone

By: FOXmls.com

Published: February 30, 2013

Americans who are house shopping in 2013 are looking for more than granite countertops and hardwood floors. According to recent research, it's all about the family.

Are You Lying? Researchers Say the Nose Knows

By: FOXmls.com

Published: February 25, 2013

We've heard about the "telltale" signs of lying: eyes darting to the left, sweaty palms, no eye contact, the ever-lengthening nose belonging to storybook character Pinocchio.

Capturing Daily Life in 2,000 Images

By: FOXmls.com

Published: February 20, 2013

Usually when it comes to cameras, the photographer is the one controlling what is photographed and when. Not the case with a recent invention by a former Microsoft employee.

Gifts First-time Homeowners Will Really Use

By: FOXmls.com

Published: February 15, 2013

Spring is home-buying season, and if you have friends moving into their first home, you know a housewarming gift is in order.

Valentine's Breakfast Pancakes

Makes about 12 pancakes

Serves 4

1 cup flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 egg
1/2 to 3/cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted Syrup
1/2 cup seedless red raspberry jam
1/2 cup maple syrup

Directions:

Urban or Suburban: What’s a Home Buyer to do?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: January 30, 2013

Journalist and ecologist Lakis Polycarpou recently penned a Polis blog article titled "Is it Time to Transcend the ‘Urban-Suburban' Divide?" An admitted city lover, he concluded that suburbia (at least today's suburbia) isn't so bad after all.

Try These Quick and Quirky Internet Kitchen Shortcuts

By: FOXmls.com

Published: Juanuary 25, 2013

You can find out how to do just about anything on the Internet. These online tips are fun and clever and can even cut prep time.

The Ideal Valentine Date

By: FOXmls.com

Published: January 20, 2013

Some cynics believe Valentine's Day is just another opportunity for retailers to flog jewelry, candy and flowers. In fact, the gifts sometimes become more important than the reason behind this celebration - your love for someone else.

Buying With Help: If They Pay, Do They Get a Say?

By: FOXmls.com

Published: January 15, 2013

The high cost of education, poor job prospects and rising prices in many housing markets mean more young prospective home buyers are turning to their families for help to buy their first home.

Cucumber Pork

A fresh and tasty dish after holiday excesses!

Serves 4

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
1 teaspoon salt
2 green onions, white parts cut into 1/4-inch lengths
3/4-pound pork sirloin cutlets cut into 1/4-inch strips
16 snow peas
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
2 tablespoons beef broth
1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into 2-inch strips

Directions: