HomeSavvi Announces New Web Site Features to Connect Homeowners and Professionals

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) October 1, 2009

HomeSavvi, a homeowner's complete online guide to home remodeling announces the release of new features on http://www.homesavvi.com to enable homeowners to connect directly with remodeling experts, make it easier for professionals to showcase their projects, and provide value-added tools for real estate agents. These features include:

•     New online forums: Three different forums have been created, including, Ask the Community, where homeowners can ask specific remodeling questions directly to experts; Coupons and Discounts, featuring the best online deals on products and services; and ProAccess, an area dedicated to professionals to exchange ideas and best practices.
•     Improved professional portfolios: The new web page portfolio layout supports better readability and usability. Homeowners can quickly see professional specialties, industry credentials, affiliations and awards. Licensed professionals can easily create, update and edit their profile and projects, as well as add and edit larger pictures online. Professional portfolios also feature new fields, such as Philosophy and Professional Services.
•     Tools for real estate agents: This special section offers a downloadable Home Welcome Kit that real estate agents can co-brand and distribute to their clients as they move into their new home. This kit offers valuable tools and tips for new homeowners, from how to hire a contractor and remodeling FAQs to planning checklists and budget sheets.

"So far this year, HomeSavvi connections have generated more than $1 million in business for professionals in our network, and within hours of our online forums launching, we started receiving questions from homeowners and answers from professionals," explains Villette Nolon, HomeSavvi founder and CEO. "With our new and improved features, we are now making it even easier for homeowners and professionals to connect online."

"I always look forward to opportunities of directly addressing homeowners' questions about the remodeling industry," adds Wayne Apostolik, president of Seattle-based Northwest Homecrafters, Inc. "HomeSavvi's new online forum offers those of us with long-time remodeling experience a way to educate on both general and specific home ownership concerns."

"More and more remodeling professionals look to leverage the Web to increase their brand awareness in the marketplace," explains interior designer Faith Sheridan. "HomeSavvi's newly laid-out professional portfolios enable them to better showcase their projects and expertise to homeowners looking for the perfect remodeling team."

According to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, existing home sales are a primary driver of home improvement spending because buyers typically want to make changes to their new homes upon purchase. Households that relocate spend an average of 20 to 25 percent more on improvements than otherwise similar households that do not move.

"By creating the Home Welcome Kit, we not only provide a value-add to real estate agents, we also offer a place online where new homeowners can go when they are ready to remodel," concludes Nolon.

About HomeSavvi
HomeSavvi is a homeowner's complete online guide to home remodeling, from start to finish. Consumers can access expert advice, local resources and professional assistance with home improvement and remodeling projects in four U.S. cities (Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and Atlanta). HomeSavvi features a comprehensive remodeling resource directory, informative articles from trusted professionals, a forum where homeowners can meet local professionals and view their projects, and the latest news about eco-friendly building products and energy-efficient initiatives. For more information, please visit us online at http://www.homesavvi.com, join us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter.

Media Contact:
Abby Calvo
(206) 605-2976

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