Showing posts with label save money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label save money. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Dual Paned Windows and Using your Federal Tax credit


Are old windows a luxury you can afford? Use your Federal Tax credit!

When you were looking for your current home, you had two lists in your head: a list of needs and a list of wants. In all liklihood, windows weren't on either list because you assume that every house has them. Windows, like doors, are a given. Or are they? Some describe windows as a luxury. While a door is essential in even the most primitive house, "windows are a refinement, an amenity that makes a place more livable." Through the centuries, windows have grown in size and improved in technology, but the problem of energy loss has gotten more complex. The heat lost in residential and commercial blds. in 1990 cost the U.S. $20 Billion alone. If you have old frame, aluminum framed, single paned windows, or even double paned windows with leaky seals, your home is part of that statistic. Up to 40% of your personal heating and cooling dollars are literally going out the window. When you begin the process of replacing your windows-Start with looking for a Brand that meets the ENERGY STAR (trademark)requirements. One such Brand is Milgard-and specifically there Smart Touch Brand-locking system design. It is the only window lock on the market that meets the Arthritis Foundation's Ease-of-Use commendation. They are backed by a lifetime warranty and Exceed California's rigorous code/s.With the added Federal tax credit thru Oct. 30th of $1500., and Milgards $750. rebate, what are you waiting for? Remodeling Magazine reports a return on investment is 99.2%.If you should desire more information-feel free to give me a call:


Wendi-Mae Davis,
Broker Associate Connect Realty,
Real estate Counselor,
Director of the California Association of Realtors.
Toll Free 866-333-6333,
wendimae@wendimae.com or check out my personal website at:
http://www.wendimae.com/Also check out our Community webite at http://www.mycameronpark.com/

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Energy Efficiency-Learn to be GREEN!

It is easier than you think to be Green...Home improvements don’t have to be epic to relieve utility costs. Here are ideas to start you off-thinking GREEN!

Some things you can do, that cost little to no money-AND over time, will actually save you lots of cash:

-If you have a home office-buy an “All-in-one” FAX, Scanner, and Copier...saves A LOT of energy, and costs you less to operate.
-When you go to bed at night, or out of town-or even during the day when not using your TV or VCR-turn off the power strip...keep in mind, when your appliances are off, but still plugged in-they pull and use power. This will save you anywhere from $60.-$100. a year on your Electric bill.
-Recycling, in general, is huge. It is so much better to buy a re-usable beverage bottle-than to buy bottled water...just think of how much you will save-using filtered water, over buying bottled water.
-Turn up the air conditioner thermostat.
-Change filters often.
-Plant trees on the South and West sides of the home to provide shade and reduce interior temperatures.
-Landscape with drought-resistant or indigenous plants, which retain more water.
-Add motion sensor lights, to save electricity.
-Install a gas fireplace in an addition, such as a den or sunroom, which will extend heat to that room.
-Replace appliances with Energy Star-rated versions. They exceed Government energy-efficiency standards by 10-25%.
-Invest in new, more energy efficient heating and cooling systems.
-Paint your home’s exterior a light color-as darker colors retain more heat.
-Plug up air leaks, which are equivalent of leaving a window open all year.
This can save up to 10% of your energy bill.
-Install double-glazed windows with low-emisson glass, which allow maximum light while keeping out heat and cold.
-When replacing roofing, install light-colored shingles made of material or tile to reflect heat.
-Add insulation in walls.

This is just a start! Feel free to email me-should you like more information or links to helpful energy saving “GREEN” websites!

check this out: http://www.wendimae.com

Wendi-Mae Davis, CRS, GRI
Broker Associate
Connect Realty
Director of the California Association of Realtors
Toll free 866-333-6333
http://www.wendimae.com