Since the beginning of time, the presence of light has been of utmost importance to mankind. [...] the quality, quantity, placement and cost of lighting are complex subjects that cover a broad range of engineering, architectural, interior design and psychology topics. In this short column, let me just announce that the next phase of high-quality and relatively low-cost lighting -- LED (light-emitting diode) lights -- has arrived. While the initial forays into this lighting technology were prohibitively expensive and of dubious light quality, there are now some LED bulbs and retro-fit fixtures that can make your home a shining jewel in the face of darkness without having to take out a second mortgage. With the multiple layers of aluminum oxide coating, it makes a lot of sense in a kitchen floor. The only real danger in kitchens is the rolling of refrigerator wheels back and forth in the same area for cleaning, because you can dent the floor. Since the financial crisis of 2008, and even after the recession "ended" in 2009, many lenders issued stricter documentation requirements before they would approve a loan. About 90 percent of new mortgages written today are backed by the FHA, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Because these entities are now requiring banks to repurchase some of the loans they make, banks are gun shy and have increased minimum down payments, and changed the debt ratios they'll consider, making only the most conservative loans.