Hibbard Construction is honored to be a part of this joyous time in your life, and to be chosen as the builder of your home.  We sincerely hope we exceed all your expectations in the building of your home.

We wish you many years of memories and happiness in your new home!

The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time to crawl up into the attic and bring down those boxes of decorations.  Many of us have been using the same decorations year after year, and some of those decorations may look a little outdated by now.  If this is the case, you may want to update your decorations or add some new twists to your decorative flair. 

Two trends in particular have been emerging, with very different themes and looks.  One is a more sophisticated theme, while the other stays more traditional. Here are a few must-try trends that will guarantee a fresh festive look for your home. 

Seasonal sophistication

Green and red might be Christmas mainstays, but your holiday decor doesn’t have to depend on these two hues alone. This season, look to more sophisticated versions of those classic shades with some other, more versatile tones.  For the sophisticated theme, the colors are rich burgundies, deep golds, dark cranberry and hunter greens as color schemes.  You can focus your holiday decor on just one color throughout or a mix of two or all four.

Table setting

To really set a sophisticated scene, add a new tablecloth or table linens in these rich, elegant colors. Use solids for the placemats and a fun pattern for the napkins to add interest and depth. Salad plates in these shades mixed in with your standard china add a punch of color, while entertaining new stemware in festive, chic hues make a great accent for your holiday table.

Slip on slipcovers

Add slipcovers to your kitchen chairs or change the cushions on dining room chairs. This is a simple but noticeable change.  This freshens up your furniture without having to buy any new major item.

 With a stagnant housing market, unemployment at an all time high, and many folks with a less than perfect credit rating, many families believe the opportunity to own their own home is too far out of reach.  But, really it’s not!

 Interest rates have never been lower and housing prices have hit rock bottom.  Surprisingly, there are a variety of loan programs geared toward those on limited income and less than perfect credit. 

 Homeownership is an exciting step for any individual or family. Whether you are purchasing your first home or a new home, you are building a future and solid foundation for you and your family.

 A great place to start is with Idaho Housing and Finance, a uniquely created and organized financial institution and administrator of affordable housing resources. In its simplest form, IHFA’s mission is to provide funding for affordable housing opportunities in Idaho communities where they are most needed and when it is economically feasible.

 Also, proper homebuyer education will prepare you and your family for homeownership.  IHFA offers an eight-hour homebuyer education course called “Finally Home”.  You will learn everything from whether you can afford homeownership to information about mortgages, closing costs, budgets, and how to protect your greatest investment.

 If your credit score needs a little work, IHFA offers free, statewide housing counseling for a variety of housing concerns before you purchase a home.  If you need assistance before purchasing a home, IHFA’s housing counselors can help with a variety of situations, by:

• Reviewing your credit reports and helping you with a debt-reduction plan.
• Developing a budget with you with homeownership in mind.
• Providing you with information and education about housing resources, rights, and responsibilities.

 Free housing counseling is available by calling 1-877-888-3135.

 Getting the right loan product with a great interest rate and a manageable loan payment is essential for successful homeownership.  IHFA has several loan programs for first time homebuyers (have not owned a home in the last three years) as well as the normal conventional loan programs, too.  Along with competitive interest rates, IHFA also has programs that can assist you with down payment and closing costs.  Most of these programs require a credit score of at least 620 to 640 to qualify.

Below is a list of loan products that offer unique options to suit the needs of a variety of homebuyers.  Click on the name of each loan program to learn more.

Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Programs

HOME Down Payment Closing Cost (DPCC) Assistance Program NEW!

• Available for first-time homebuyers with a household income less than 80% of area median income.
• Minimum of $1,000 with a maximum of 3.5% of the purchase price not to exceed $8,000, based on borrower’s need, and the adjusted gross household area median income (AMI).
• Borrower minimum investment of $500, with no cash out at closing.
• Property must have been previously vacant or owner-occupied.
• Finally Home!® Homebuyer Education program completion prior to applying for the assistance

Good Credit Rewards Loan

This loan offers a second mortgage for up to 3.5% of the first mortgage that can be used for down payment and closing costs. This is offered to:

• Homebuyers with less than 140% of area median income
• Graduates of Finally Home!® Homebuyer Education
• Homebuyers with a credit score of at least 680

Neighborhood Stabilization Homeownership Assistance Funds Program

Click here for NSP Program details.

First Loan (30 Year)

• Lowest fixed rate product for low-to-moderate income, first-time borrowers
• Check sales price and income limits for qualifications
• May qualify for up to $2000 tax credit every year, (New) Homebuyer Tax Credit Program

 
Advantage Loan (30 Year)

• No first-time homebuyer requirement
• Check the income limits chart for qualifications
• No sales price limits
• May be used for purchase or refinance
• May qualify for up to $2000 tax credit every year, (New) Homebuyer Tax Credit Program

Loans to Refinance (A great time to take advantage of low interest rates)

Conventional Cash-Out Refinance
FHA Cash-Out Refinance
FHA Streamline Refinance Loan
VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL)
USDA-RD Streamline Refinance Loan

• Current loan does not have to be an IHFA loan
• Borrowers must be eligible for the Advantage Loan Product
• No sales price limits
• Check the income limits chart for qualifications
• Closing costs and prepaid items may be included
• Conventional cash-out refinance loan limited to 80% loan-to-value 
• FHA cash-out refinance loan limited to 85% loan-to-value 

Standard Loans (These programs have been around for awhile)

RD (Rural Development)

This home loan is for homebuyers who would like to buy a home in a rural community with no down payment.

View Benefits of an RD loan

Conventional

This is a home loan where a homebuyer may qualify for up to 95%; down payment assistance is available.

FHA

Unlike some inflexible mortgage programs, the FHA mortgage is more attainable for people with minimal credit.

VA

This home loan enables eligible military veterans to buy a home with no down payment.

FHA 203(k) Streamline Rehabilitation Loan 

This loan is intended to facilitate uncomplicated rehabilitation and/or improvements to a home such as new paint, carpet, windows, or roof.

Visit the IFHA website and view the details regarding each of the mortgage products offered.  Or you can call Gina Crowley at Academy Mortgage 208-498-1780, she is well versed in all of these programs and can guide you through the process.

The area above your garage is also a great place to add an office, extra bedroom or family room.  And, depending on the size of your garage, it may be the perfect place to add a studio apartment for your college student.

Garage Remodeling
Contractors have found that a garage offers the perfect environment for a home office, studio space, or workshop. Since many garages are attached to or near the home, often a garage remodel can easily incorporate the same comforts as the home: heating and cooling, phone wiring, even plumbing are usually readily available and can easily be accessed.  Thereby, adding these same amenities to the garage remodel can usually be done with minimal cost.

However, transforming your garage doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your storage area. Many garages today have become multifunctional, allowing for cars, general storage, and a home office or workshop all in the same space.

If you find you will be losing too much storage space in your garage, as part of the garage remodeling project consider building a small storage shed in your yard to house tools, sporting equipment and seasonal items. A building separate from the house will expand your storage space, allowing you to use the garage in ways that you could not use a shed:

In addition to remodeling your current garage space, you could also consider an addition above the garage. Raising the roof and adding a room for work space above your existing garage can give you additional space, not to mention increase the value of a home, all without changing the floor plan or interrupting your family flow during construction.

Here are some other garage remodeling ideas:

Laundry room: If your laundry room is in the basement and you have no space upstairs, building a small laundry room in your garage will eliminate the need to go up and down the stairs. As far as real estate value is concerned, having an upstairs laundry is actually more desirable.

Mud room: Protect your home from outdoor dirt and debris by encouraging everyone to leave their shoes and other outdoor gear here. Install a sink for easier clean up. Certainly, no one needs to make a mudroom the size of a garage, so think of a mudroom as a smart, smaller feature of the larger garage remodeling project.

Music studio: This is where many “garage bands” got their start. Consider soundproofing the garage to avoid neighbors’ complaints.

Home Office: If you have ever tried to work from home, even for a day, you know that your home offers many distractions: laundry, dishes, TV, etc. Converting your garage into a home office is the perfect answer. This keeps your work in a workspace instead of the kitchen table or the recliner.

The garage remodel is one that can have many different outcomes.  It is almost like a blank canvas and the possibilites are endless.  Have your contractor out to take a look and see what undiscovered space you may have at your disposal!

Adequate storage in the home has become a hot topic among designers and remodelers recently.  More and more clients are finding themselves squeezed into homes with smaller square footage and lacking adequate storage space for todays active family lifestyle.

Rest assured there are ways to gain extra storage space that you didn’t even know you had, and the cost of doing it wont break the bank!

Build High Ceilings

If you can’t build out, try going up! Tall ceilings can be used to gain more storage in several rooms. In your closets, higher shelves can be placed above your normal rod for items that are seasonal. Kitchens and Great Rooms can also benefit from higher ceilings because taller cabinets can be installed. Don’t forget the open area above the wall cabinets, which can house anything from a basket of books to speakers.

Add Space in the Walls

Have a recessed cabinet installed! Recessed cabinets are designed to fit between the 16” studs found in most homes. A recessed cabinet can be installed in just a few hours and designed to match the trim already in your home.  Recessed cabinets come in an array of types and styles. Price and quality of materials vary, but the goal is the same: Utilize that space inside your wall.

Add Storage Under the Stairs

If you have stairs, putting deep drawers or cabinet style doors on the side can help you get the most use out of an otherwise waste of space.  You will be surprised at the amount of storage available when you utilize this area.

Plan for Attic Storage

If you are going to have a steep roof or have one already, take advantage of this extra storage space. When you build, make sure the ceiling joists are sized large enough to carry any extra load created from your storage items. ONE TIP – If you install “real” stairs instead of pull down stairs, getting those Christmas decorations down every year will be much easier!

Create Built-in Seating

A mudroom is the perfect place for built-in seating. If you build the seating with a hinged top or deep drawers, you get the perfect place to store your shoes. In a bedroom, you have the perfect place to read a book and hide extra blankets at the same time.

Add an Island

Islands can be great in a kitchen for extra storage, but have you tried one on wheels? If you need more room in the kitchen, you simply roll it out of the way. Have you thought about an island in your closet? If you have a large walk-in closet, why not take advantage of that extra floor space? A small island makes a perfect place for extra storage and you may be able to free up some floor space in your bedroom by not having an extra dresser.

Don’t Skimp on the Garage

With the popularity of SUVs and mini vans, it is important you make sure your new garage will be big enough to hold the family car. For example, the GMC Yukon has a length of 198.9 inches and the Yukon XL has a length of 219.3 inches. If you plan on walking around it after you park, that garage had better be deeper than 20 feet.

An over sized garage will also allow for shelving units to be installed.  This will give you an abundance of storage for your seasonal decorations, camping equipment, and lawn and garden supplies.

All in all, there are numerous ways to gain more storage.  It just takes some creativity and a contractor who can help you identify ways to utilize the space you didn’t know you had!

Do you remember when people were honest and you could take them at their word?  In 1971, Robert (Bob) Hibbard founded Hibbard Construction on the simple – but not often followed – principles of quality and integrity. 

Along with his brother Bill, Bob moved his young family to the Treasure Valley.  He built his first home in July of 1971 and thus began the legacy of Hibbard Construction.  Bob worked hard to give customers affordable quality.  He wanted his homes to withstand the tests of time.  He employed time-honored craftsmanship with the latest innovative technologies to produce a home that was not only appealing in architectural design, but also energy efficient.

Bob’s commitment to quality inspired him to hire his own crew of carpenters, painters and concrete finishers.  This would allow him to maintain his high standards of construction and still provide clients with an affordable product.  In 1972, Bob hired the first of his full-time construction crew.

Keeping with the movement of innovation and energy efficiency, Bob wanted to be a leader in his field.  In 1980 he was one of the first builders to utilize 2×6 construction standards and one of the first builders in Idaho to build “Good Cents” homes.  Later, Hibbard Construction would build their homes according to the “Energy Star” standard.

Being a leader in his industry, Bob was an active member of the Snake River Builder Contractor’s Association.  In 1988, he was elected president of the Board of Directors.  He actively participated in the Annual Canyon County Parade of Homes until he retired in 2005.

Jeff Hibbard officially joined the company in 1990 after receiving his business degree from Northwest Nazarene College in Nampa, Idaho.  He worked side by side with his father and both continued to raise the standard for Hibbard Construction over the next 15 years.  This is evident in the numerous awards and honors bestowed on the company during this time.

In 2005, Bob decided to officially retire and hand over the reins to Jeff.  In that same year, under Jeff’s direction, Hibbard Construction won the prestigious “Builder’s Choice” award for the 2005 Parade of Homes.  The years of experience, expertise, and values taught to him by his father are still a strong tradition with Jeff and the Hibbard Construction crew.  Jeff continues his father’s legacy by ensuring that he exceeds his client’s expectations and continues to produce affordable, award winning quality each and every time!

More Americans are staying in their homes rather than moving. Many homeowners believe it is a terrible time to sell their home. There’s a lot more to be gained through remodeling besides increased functionality, new appliances, efficient systems, updated décor, additional space or the pure enjoyment of making your home your own. There’s also the increased value your home receives when you make improvements. 

With so many options available today, there are a number of considerations for homeowners who want to get the most out of their remodels.

Curb appeal goes a long way. Exterior home improvements such as roofing, siding, windows and doors are subject to the elements and usually need to be replaced after a number of years. In terms of re-sale value, updated exteriors give sellers an edge over buyers who are attracted to your home before entering.  

According to Energy Star, half of a home’s energy use is dedicated to heating and cooling. If a system is more than 15 years old, it may be time to replace it. New, energy-efficient systems are not only more cost-effective but are also better quality.  

All homes benefit from increased insulation and sealing, regardless of climate. Older homes are traditionally under-insulated compared to new homes. And recent insulation innovations like spray foam or cellulose increase the ability to trap air inside. Proper insulation evens temperature flows, reduces energy use and has long-term benefits.

Kitchen and bath renovations are still popular—and for good reason. Homeowners continue to see the value in updating areas of the home that are used frequently and are high functioning. Universal design concepts are commonly incorporated into kitchen and bath areas to accommodate people of all sizes and abilities and conveniences for long-term residents. 

Most homeowners can handle routine maintenance projects and cosmetic touch-ups, but it’s recommended they consult with qualified professionals for larger remodeling jobs and major changes to the home’s structure. 

Homeowners that need to make several updates to their homes but cannot afford a complete overhaul may be interested in phased remodeling. In this instance, remodeling projects are broken into phases over time, for a long-term project plan. This also lessens the burden of remodeling to the homeowner as they remain in the home as work is being done.

Don’t over-improve!  If you are planning on selling your home in the immediate future, keep in mind the types of improvements you are planning.  Real estate experts suggest you keep your home’s value within 10-15% of neighborhood values.  Buyers looking for a home in a particular price range wont invest if the neighborhood values aren’t there.  Also, appraisal for your home’s value will be low because appraisers use comparison prices from the homes recently sold in your neighborhood. 

If you plan to stay where you are for a long time or indefinitely, investing a larger amount may prove worthwhile because over time your home may go up in value. Plus, you’ll have the benefit of living in a home that you can enjoy and suits your personal needs and lifestyle.

At the end of the day, an ethical, experienced, contractor can help determine the best project and scope of work that will earn the homeowner the most bang for their buck!

When decorating an outdoor space it’s important to plan your decor just as you would any indoor room. Use furniture, fabrics, pillows and accessories in the same manner that you would inside. There is an ample assortment of outdoor appropriate materials, so finding items that are suitable for an outdoor environment shouldn’t be a problem.

Tips for a Cozy Outdoor Space
Create functional seating areas with comfortable furniture.  Use the same concept that you would use for your indoor space to encourage a relaxing conversation area that people will gravitate towards.  Use an area rug made of a weather-resistant material. It will help define the seating area, and offer a comfy gathering element outdoors. 

To keep your décor fresh, festive, and fun, add an accent of eye-popping color or bold patterns.  Upgrade old and weathered patio furniture with slipcovers or new cushions in an outdoor weather resistant fabric.

Lighting is important in any outdoor entertaining area if it’s going to be used in the evenings. Use plenty of lanterns and candles. Flameless candles are widely available if the traditional style isn’t for you. Strings of tiny white lights also add a magical element to any backyard room.  Tiki torches are great for ambiance and with citronella oil, will help keep mosquitoes away from guests.

Consider a ceiling or cover over your outdoor space. A pergola draped with hanging vines is romantic, a retractable awning is practical, and 4 posts with a sheet of canvas is very budget-friendly. No matter what the budget, there is a solution for everyone. With a roof over your garden room, even the rain won’t stop you from entertaining.  If you want to go big budget, a covered deck with canned lighting and ceiling fans will bring luxury and comfort while enjoying your outdoor space.  Outdoor speakers wired to your stereo system bring “mood music” to the gathering as well.

Block wind and create privacy with a lattice covered in vines, or if space allows, a large hedge. Sheer curtains and blinds can also add privacy while filtering sunlight.

Consider a water feature. It creates a pleasing, natural sound and can help block noise from neighbors and traffic.

Basic Rules for Decorating Outdoor Rooms

Fashion any outdoor room in a way that’s complimentary to the style of the home. Colors, patterns, textures, and styles should reflect your inside decor. When guests walk outside it should be a seamless transition from the inside of your home to the outdoor living area. Also, use the same principals as you would for indoor decorating. Spend money on classic pieces that will last and have a little more fun with the accessories that can be easily replaced. Trendy accessories that will go out of style, and flea market finds that may not stand up to the weather for more than one season can be great as long as your budget allows the expense.

Natural, and natural-looking materials always work well in outdoor rooms. Bamboo, rattan, and wicker (both natural and all-weather) will blend in nicely with the outside surroundings.

Keeping it Fresh

Weatherizing your outdoor furniture and treating it properly will make it last for many seasons to come. Store it appropriately at the end of the summer and give it a good cleaning at the beginning of each season. There are many products that can be used to lengthen the life of various materials of patio furniture, so ask for the best ones at your local hardware or garden store.

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and savor the sunshine. Whether your outdoor space is large or small, your budget huge or nonexistent, there are plenty of things you can do to create a beautiful space that will last for seasons to come.

According to the government census, there are nearly 110 million occupied homes in the United States. Leading building material manufacturers state that up to 70 percent of these homes are not insulated to current energy code requirements, making them less energy efficient than a new home. However, making matters worse, most new homes built in the last 10 years are constructed in accordance only to the lowest possible legal energy efficiency standards. While it may be legal, it does not address one of the biggest complaints of homeowners…comfort.

Making a home more energy efficient not only makes it more comfortable to live in, it also enables homeowners to lower the cost of maintaining their home year-round and for years to come. In fact, 73 percent of homeowners say they are willing to pay more for an energy-efficient home.  And with the government’s energy tax credits, and state efficiency programs, homeowners can save even more money when executing energy efficient projects for their home.

Learn how to optimize energy efficiency with the following home designs and construction techniques:

Does your roof need replaced?  Then head to the attic to check out the backside of the roof deck and check the attic insulation level.  Your contractor should provide a quote for the roofing replacement and a separate price to add attic insulation to optimize the home’s energy efficiency.  Idaho Power has a $.15 per square-foot incentive for adding attic insulation up to R-50. 

Are you considering a window replacement project or replacing your old furnace?  Adding a tag-on insulation project or air sealing solution will help optimize the energy efficiency of the whole house and increase the energy savings of your project. Attic or crawlspace retrofit insulation applications, along with air sealing are the easiest and usually most cost efficient ways to energy efficiency to a home retrofit/remodeling project.

If your home uses electric zonal heat such as baseboards or ceiling cable, choosing to replace these types of heat sources with a ductless heat pump will allow you to receive addition incentives when they are installed by participating contractors.

What about a new kitchen or bath?  These projects usually focus on beautifying with cabinets, countertops or flooring, but they don’t have to stop there. When opening the drywall, your contractor can caulk and seal the cavity (to reduce air infiltration) and then re-insulate with the highest R-value available.

Remember if your kitchen or bath remodel project includes new light fixtures, promotions including “Change a Light” can save you even more money.  Local retailers are offering incentives when you use Energy Star qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs and offer rebates for installing these types of fixtures.  Not only will you save money on the initial purchase, but your energy bill will be greatly reduced as well.

Does your home need new siding?  When re-siding a home, adding new windows to allow for a cross breeze during the hot summer months is an easy fix to offset the high cost of cooling a home.  Adding a new layer of foam board insulation over the existing exterior, and caulking around all openings can make a huge difference to the energy efficiency, comfort and performance of the home during the winter months.

Focusing on energy efficiency when considering a remodel makes good sense.  This approach will yield a lower cost to maintain the home and also adds immediate comfort. Research shows that a more energy efficient home can enhance its resale value.

When planning your project, do your research and incorporate as many incentives as you can into your project for immediate savings and future savings.  Additional information on Federal incentives and local programs can be found at the following links:

Federal Incentives:

http://www.energysavers.gov/financial/70010.html#products_2016

http://www.energytaxincentives.org/

State/Local Incentives:

http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=ID44F&re=1&ee=1

http://www.energy.idaho.gov/financialassistance/taxdeductions.htm

http://www.energy.idaho.gov/financialassistance/taxcredits.htmhtm

http://www.energy.idaho.gov/financialassistance/energyloans.htm

Before

More Americans are staying in their homes rather than moving. Many homeowners believe it is a terrible time to sell their home. There’s a lot more to be gained through remodeling besides increased functionality, new appliances, efficient systems, updated décor, additional space or the pure enjoyment of making your home your own. There’s also the increased value your home receives when you make improvements.

With so many options available today, there are a number of considerations for homeowners who want to get the most out of their remodels.

After

Curb appeal goes a long way. Exterior home improvements such as roofing, siding, windows and doors are subject to the elements and usually need to be replaced after a number of years. In terms of re-sale value, updated exteriors give sellers an edge over buyers who are attracted to your home before entering.  

According to Energy Star, half of a home’s energy use is dedicated to heating and cooling. If a system is more than 15 years old, it may be time to replace it. New, energy-efficient systems are not only more cost-effective but are also better quality.  

All homes benefit from increased insulation and sealing, regardless of climate. Older homes are traditionally under-insulated compared to new homes. And recent insulation innovations like spray foam or cellulose increase the ability to trap air inside. Proper insulation evens temperature flows, reduces energy use and has long-term benefits.

Kitchen and bath renovations are still popular—and for good reason. Homeowners continue to see the value in updating areas of the home that are used frequently and are high functioning. Universal design concepts are commonly incorporated into kitchen and bath areas to accommodate people of all sizes and abilities and conveniences for long-term residents.  

Most homeowners can handle routine maintenance projects and cosmetic touch-ups, but it’s recommended they consult with qualified professionals for larger remodeling jobs and major changes to the home’s structure.

Homeowners that need to make several updates to their homes but cannot afford a complete overhaul may be interested in phased remodeling. In this instance, remodeling projects are broken into phases over time, for a long-term project plan. This also lessens the burden of remodeling to the homeowner as they remain in the home as work is being done.

Don’t over-improve!  If you are planning on selling your home in the immediate future, keep in mind the types of improvements you are planning.  Real estate experts suggest you keep your home’s value within 10-15% of neighborhood values.  Buyers looking for a home in a particular price range wont invest if the neighborhood values aren’t there.  Also, appraisal for your home’s value will be low because appraisers use comparison prices from the homes recently sold in your neighborhood.

If you plan to stay where you are for a long time or indefinitely, investing a larger amount may prove worthwhile because over time your home may go up in value. Plus, you’ll have the benefit of living in a home that you can enjoy and suits your personal needs and lifestyle.

At the end of the day, an ethical, experienced, contractor can help determine the best project and scope of work that will earn the homeowner the most bang for their buck!