Sunset first home first remodel: our guide to buying and fixing up a starter house - The Changing Western Home

Sunset, May, 2003 by Mary Jo Bowling

Energy use: Of most household appliances, a refrigerator consumes the largest amount of energy because it is always running. Visit www.energystar.gov to find recommendations for energy-saving appliances.

Ovens

Height: Single wall oven, 36 inches; stacked double ovens, 50 inches

Width: 27-30 inches

Depth: 24 inches

Double ovens: If you need to cook several dishes at once, double wall ovens are for you.

Single oven: A single oven is less expensive and doesn't eat up as much cabinet space as a double.

Standard: The heat comes from the top and bottom of the oven, often resulting in uneven temperature within. They are usually less expensive than convection ovens.

Convection: Hot air circulates to cook food faster. Conversion times for recipes can be found in the appliance handbook.

Fuel options: Like ranges, ovens can be powered by gas or electricity. Electric ovens are more popular because they offer better temperature control; gas ovens are considered superior for broiling. Dual fuel (gas cooktop, electric oven) options are available in ranges.

Dishwashers

Height: 34 inches

Width: 24 inches

Depth: 24 inches

Plastic tub: The standard white tub dishwashers are usually least expensive.

Stainless steel tub: Higher-end models have a stainless steel tub that quickly heats to higher temperatures than plastic tubs do, for superior cleaning.

Rack depths: Interior dish racks vary in height and may be adjustable. Some allow more space on the bottom, a good option for someone who washes a lot of tall pots and pans.

Jets: Higher-end models have more--and more powerful--washing jets,

Drawers: Some models are separated into two drawers--good for people who entertain a lot and produce small waves of dirty dishes.

Noise factor: Dishwashers are usually the loudest appliance in a kitchen, Check the appliance handbook for a "db" (decibel rating): the lower the db, the quieter the dishwasher.

Internet help for home buyers

The most useful websites and key words

By Julie Chai

These online resources offer a wealth of free information for new and potential homeowners (some sites may ask for personal information).

For information on city demographics, local schools, climate, and salary calculators:

* CityRating.com, www.cityrating.com

Lists many Western cities.

* Sperling's BestPlaces, www.bestplaces.net

Recommends cities based on your criteria, with side-by-side city comparisons.

Key words: best neighborhoods, best places to live

For information on financing, financial glossaries, and calculators that determine how much you can afford:

* LendingTree, www.lendingtree.com

Lenders can make competing offers; you pick and choose. You need to enter personal information for advice.

* National Association of Realtors, www.realtor.com

Tools to help you find everything: a home, a lender, a mover.

* U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, www.hud.gov

Under the "Homes" heading, click on "Buying."

Key words: home finance, home loans

For remodeling and maintenance advice:

* The Home Depot, www.homedepot.com

Click on "Project Index" for scores of projects that detail what materials you'll need, the skill level of the project, and how long it should take.