Here are some tips for hiring a remodeling contractor.

1. Get at least 3 written estimates. 

2. Get references and if possible, go by and visit earlier jobs completed by the contractors.

3. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or the Better Business Bureau for complaints.

4. Be sure the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled.

5. Make a small down payment to ensure you don't lose a lot if the work is not completed.

6. Make sure the contractor has the proper licenses, permits and insurance.

7. Make sure the contract states when the work will be completed and what recourse you have if it is not.

8. Ask if the contractor will do the entire job or if there will be subcontractors.

9. Get the contractor to emdemnify you if the work does not meet local codes or regulations.

10. Be sure the contractor cleans up after his job and is responsible for any damage.

11. Guarantee the materials used meet your specifications.

12. Don't make the final payment until you're satisfied with the work.

Article reprinted with permission from www.realtor.org.

These are some tips from Better Homes and Gardens magazine featuring ideas on how to landscape your yard in order to get the most energy efficiency. 

Build a pergola, ramada (shade shelter open on three sides), awning or other shade-giving structure on the west side of your house.  It's an attractive way to filter light during the hottest part of the day.

Position porches, decks and patios on the east side of your home.  They'll become an ideal gathering spot because of their early morning warmth without becoming like a sauna during the late-day heat.  Try adding a shade tree.

Think about your ground covers.  Light- colored stone or granite mulch and concrete will reflcet more heat, making things hotter.  Darker stone and chips will absorb the heat.

Place trees to shield your windows, especially those on the south and west sides from direct sun.  Deciduous trees are a great option as they block sun during the hot weather and allow sunlight during the cooler seasons.

Water features are cooling both physically and psychologically.  A large pond upwind will noticeably cool the air of your whole landscape.

Article used from Better Homes and Gardens magazine (www.bhg.com)

In my newsletter, I always offer the Buyer's Basics section to help guide the buyer to a better experience.  Buyers need to keep in mind that they are checking to see if the home is in the same or better condition than when they first made the offer.

Be sure that:

Repairs have all been made according to the Inspection Contigency Notification form.

All items included in the contract are there i.e. lights, drapes, blinds and appliances.

Screens and storm windows are in place or stored.

All appliances are operating.

Hot water heater, HVAC, intercom, doorbell and alarms are working properly.

No plants or shrubs have been removed.

Instruction books and warranties on appliances are available.

 

All reprinted with permission from www.realtor.org.

There are several ways to ensure an earth-friendly, energy- efficient home.  Many people are interested in these options but are not aware of the advantages and disadvantages of them. 

Solar- paneling-  Disadvantages are initial costs, don't work at night or when overcast.  Advantages are non-polluting,renewable resource, lower monthly bills!!!

Goethermal heating/cooling systems- Disadvantages are initial cost of installation, affect of system on the surrounding land's stability.  Advantages are systems use their energy from heat stored beneath the earth's surface, they are clean, safe, sustainable, renewable, unaffected by weather and work 24 hours a day!!!

Structual Insulated Panels- Sips-  Disadvantages are they cost a bit more than "stick-built" homes to build.  Advantages are they have the durability to withstand hurricane force winds, energy efficient, prefabricated under controlled conditions (custom for each home), faster to build, create less job waste, tremendous R-factor(insullation),bring at least $2.00 per sq. ft. more on appraisal value and lower monthly energy bills!!!!

 

Written by Kristina Copeland in Volume 1 Issue 1 of our monthly newsletter.