By Ron Briddell, Chairman Remodelors Council of the Home Builders Association

So you want a new house, but dread the mere thought of "the MOVE"? Don't fret. In this dilemma, you really can have it both ways...just remodel!

Too much work, you say? Nonsense! The `do-it-yourself segment has lost a share of the market. Most people who decide to remodel their homes hire contractors.

Remodeling Trends
Some home owners are building whole rooms onto their houses. One popular addition is the master bedroom suite. Home owners can easily convert their old bedroom into an office, media room, or guest room - whatever fits their lifestyle. In many cases, remodelers are adding these rooms on upper levels of the home. This technique helps conserve land and space.

Other home owners hire contractors to finish their basements. With this choice, they benefit from a whole room of living space without altering their home's exterior appearance.

Many remodeling contractors are working on kitchens and bathrooms for clients. In their kitchens, home owners want more counter space, natural wood cabinetry, and some of the more durable, maintenance free countertops. Stainless steei is becoming increasingly popular. Owners want spacious showers, whirlpool tubs, and second basins. Those choosing lighter colors may be trying to achieve the illusion of more space or light than they have. Window additions and replacements bring that light where it's needed, as well as energy and money saving features.

Remodeling work is a great way to pursue energy-saving, "healthy" or "green" features in your home. Replacing windows with triple-pane or low-e glass; tearing out carpet for hardwood, ceramic, or composites (even bamboo is a flooring option today!); adding skylights or solar panels; landscaping; re-roofing; even plumbing and electric work can contribute.

So if you're considering a major change but want to stay put (your housing investment has been appreciating, hasn't it?), try remodeling. Believe it: contractors can perform miracles. You will feel like you have a brand new home, but you won't have to leave your memories and conveniences.