After years of focusing on marble countertops and stainless steel decorators and manufacturers are pressing a new concept: the jumbled kitchen that combines multiple materials.

June Fletcher on signs to look for before putting all your eggs into a brick-and-mortar basket. Our columnist offers suggestions on what you can do to make sure your next residence is the best place for both your family and your hard-earned dollars.

There was an increase of 4.6% in May as sales climbed sharply in the South and the West. Economists were expecting a 4% decline.