Our nation’s capitol is home to some of the best museums and historical monuments in the country, but is it also home to the area of the most promising real estate recovery? Yes, according to a survey that found home prices in Washington D.C. have risen 4.4{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} during the first six months of the year and is expected to perform the best during 2011. Here’s to other markets following suit!

On a national level, single women are doing their part to aid the real estate recovery, accounting for 20{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} of all home buyers. According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies, this group is buying to relocate closer to family or their job, for more space and they have a strong desire to nest.

What’s better for your health: farm livin’ or city slickin’? This week, the County Health Rankings report, which looks at health measures in every U.S. county, proclaimed that city-dwellers live longer, healthier lives as compared to those who live in rural areas. There are of course advantages to both types of living and many factors to consider, but it is an interesting report nonetheless. How did your county pan out?

An Associated Press article this week reported on homeowners associations foreclosing on homeowners for being late on their association fees. The associations spell out their right in small print and until recently, rarely moved ahead with this action, the wire service reports. With nearly 20{0a8e414e4f0423ce9f97e7209435b0fa449e6cffaf599cce0c556757c159a30c} of homeowners belonging to an association, this could potentially become an issue.

Homeowners can do many things to change and improve their homes, such as painting a wall, planting flowers and even making grand additions. Some things that home buyers should keep in mind, though: usually, a home’s existing light, noise and views are there to stay.

Summer is swimming pool season. Design consultant Sara Ruffin Costello looked at the trend of naturalist swimming pools, or those with dark blue, green or black bottoms as compared to the bright aquatic blue popular in years past. Apart from a refreshing look, the design keeps the water warmer, saving money on heating costs.

In closing, if you want to be a part of the tiny house movement, you can bid on a 520 square feet eco-friendly residence on eBay. The bidding ends today, July 15^th. Good luck!