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Patricia "Pattie " Romano Your HomeTown Realtor 609 312-9043

Housing Goes Green

Wherever you turn these days, it seems that someone is talking about “Green”, or “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED”) certified buildings, and “Zero Energy Homes”. Each of these share a commitment to reduced energy consumption and the “re-use, repurposing and recycling of materials”, “improved indoor air quality” and use of “environmentally friendly” and “renewable products”. Green or LEED buildings generally generate 20 to 70 percent in energy savings, while a Zero Energy Home (ZEH) by definition must generate enough energy to meet or exceed its own heating, cooling and electrical needs in any given year.

With all of the recent attention being given to energy conservation, you might not realize that a handful of individuals began vigorously exploring ways to significantly reduce energy consumption in the early 1970’s. Since then, energy saving practices have been refined and expanded and have been incorporated into projects ranging from small homes to large commercial buildings, schools and fire stations to government buildings. Recent projects have successfully demonstrated the economic viability and sustainability of incorporating rigorous energy and conservation standards into new construction without increasing budgets or extending schedules.

Many conservation efforts are most easily incorporated at the time of initial construction, however some are easily adapted either as a stand-alone project or as part of routine equipment replacement.

Heating, Cooling and Electricity

High efficiency furnaces and/or heat pumps – replacing old furnaces with higher efficiency models or possibly converting from an older type of heating and/or cooling device to one utilizing newer technology can lead to significant energy savings. Many furnaces built just 15 years ago are quite inefficient when compared to models available today.

Insulation – adding additional insulation in attics, crawl spaces and exterior walls are all potential areas for reducing energy costs. Also, by sealing cracks in the attic around areas where ceiling lights and fans are installed or wires are strung can also cut energy costs substantially. When all these small openings are added together, they can have the same effect as having a window left open.

Horizontal Loop Ground Source Heat Pump System – this relatively unheard of heat pump system runs coils 4 to 6 feet underground to tap into the constant temperature of the earth’s soil to provide either heating or cooling depending upon the season.

Windows – installation of wood or vinyl encased triple pane windows significantly reduces heat loss and eliminates drafts.

Building Site Orientation – for new construction, orienting a building to utilize the southern exposure along with window placement allows for the exploitation of both natural lighting and solar heat.

Light bulbs – the days of the incandescent light bulbs may be numbered as legislators across the nation discuss legislation to ban their use in favor of the more efficient LED and CFL lighting technology as a measure to reduce energy usage.

Higher efficiency appliances – installation of high efficiency appliances will significantly reduce energy consumption, particularly for appliances that run all the time, are energy consumers or are used with high frequency.

Water Consumption

Water heaters – there are several energy saving strategies available when it comes to water heaters. When opting to use a traditional storage tank the location of the tank can have a significant impact on both the amount of water consumed as well as the cost of heating the water. The most economical placement is to have the tank as close as possible to where the water is used most so there is less water wasted waiting for the hot water to arrive. Adding insulation to the first foot of the pipe coming out of the hot water tank will reduce heat leakage. An alternative to the traditional hot water heater is the tankless water heater that only heats the water as needed by running the water through heated coils. This method eliminates the need to keep water hot all the time and the energy required to do so.

Landscaping –by designing and implementing a landscape centered on plants native to your locale that are also drought tolerant will reduce landscape watering requirements.

Rainwater cisterns with filtration systems – also gaining popularity are rainwater cisterns that store water from rooftop collection systems to be later used for irrigation. Sizes vary and can be selected based up on rainfall averages, collection area size, and available storage locations.

Impervious Paving Systems – porous surfaces reduce the impact on surrounding areas by allowing rain water to penetrate surfaces and be absorbed into the soil. Reducing runoff helps alleviate premature expansion of storm water treatment facilities.

Indoor Air Quality

Flooring – several options exist when making flooring selections that will increase air quality. For those willing to either reduce the quantity of carpeting or forego it all together, selecting sustainably harvested wood or bamboo is a good alternative. However, for those set on having carpeting, selecting carpets made using natural fibers with a low-pile can reduce the collection of allergens. Also, air quality will remain stable when carpeting is installed using tacks rather than fume emitting glue.

Paint – better air quality is achieved by using low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and low-toxic interior paints and finishes instead of other paints and finishes that release higher levels of chemicals and toxins.

Additional Energy Sources

Solar – once thought of as an “alternative” source of energy, solar panels are gaining popularity. Solar panels remain an expensive option; however, their cost has dropped significantly over the last number of years making them less cost prohibitive. Although solar panels will work in any climate, sunnier locations will result in higher productivity. To encourage the installation of solar panels, governmental agencies as well as some utilities have created different incentive and rebate programs to lower the cost.

Wind – although not practical for the average home owner due to its high installation costs ($40,000 or more), it does remain an option for those located in areas with sufficient wind and land resources. Generally a home tower will produce between 8,000 – 18,000 kWh per year given sufficient air movement and require being located on at least an acre of land.

Patricia " PATTIE" Romano
REALTOR® Associate
RE
/MAX At Barnegat Bay
31 North Main Street ( RT 9 )
Manahawkin,NJ 08050

www.soldbypattie.com
609-978-4046
Direct cell-609-312-9043
eve: 609-978-5985 -

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Setting Home Repair Priorities

Setting Home Repair Priorities

When it comes to home maintenance and repair, deciding where to start can be a daunting task. Beyond the "fix-it-after-it-breaks" emergency situations, prioritizing preventative maintenance can be a bit challenging.

When looking at the laundry list of potential home repairs for your house, you'll want to move to the top items that threaten your family's safety and security, and the structure of your home and its critical systems.

Safety First

Potential safety concerns should always be fixed as soon as they are identified. Any problem area in your home that could adversely affect the health or well-being of your family members or pets is not a "to-do" list item that you schedule when time and budget allows.

Some of the most commonly needed "safety" home repairs include:

  • Railings and banisters: Ensure all hardware is securely fastened to the wall or support structures to prevent serious falls. Split or worn railings should be replaced with new hardware.
  • Walkway cracks/uneven walkways: Outdoor footpaths are often overlooked, but cracked or wobbly walkways can easily lead to slip-and-fall injuries.
  • Smoke detectors: Smoke detectors should be tested monthly as part of your home safety plan, and batteries should be replaced semi-annually. Consider adding additional smoke detectors in bedrooms or guest rooms where they do not already exist.
  • Lighting: When lights burn out in walkways and stairwells, move quickly to replace the bulbs to prevent any potential night-time slips or falls.
  • Porch steps: A porch step that falters or feels springy may be on the verge of giving out, potentially leading to a nasty landing. Secure loose steps as soon as the issue is noticed, and repair any stairs that show signs of wear or structural issues.
  • Electrical outlets: Outlets should be periodically tested to ensure the ground-fault circuits are working.

    Security

    Addressing security concerns should be another top priority when considering home repairs or upgrade projects. Protecting your home, your family and your possessions often involves investing in your home's indoor and outdoor security.

    Some common security-related home repair and upgrade projects include:

  • Windows: Repair any loose or faulty window latches, and carefully check the security on lower level windows that could be accessed from the outside.
  • Doors: That loose exterior door knob is more than a slight nuisance, it also represents a security risk inviting potential burglars into your home. Promptly fix any finicky doorknobs, deadbolts that won't turn or other door security problems.
  • Outdoor lighting: Just as replacing lighting indoors can be a safety measure, making sure your home is adequately lit outdoors adds another layer of security. Exterior security lights, often operating on motion sensors, illuminate the darkness around your home when someone enters the immediate vicinity. Promptly replacing burnt out bulbs in exterior security lights, porch lights, and outdoor walkway lighting helps make your home a less attractive target for would-be thieves.
  • Garage doors: Burglars frequently target garages as a weak point by which to gain entry into the homes they rob. Garage doors that aren't closing properly or unreliable automatic garage door systems represent a significant home security disadvantage. Promptly address garage door problems as soon as they crop up to avoid leaving your home vulnerable.
  • Security systems: Adding even a basic electronic security system can enhance your piece of mind and provide added security to your home. Alarm systems provide a deterring factor, but they also need to be maintained to work effectively.

    Water Hazards

    Water damage is one of the most costly foes a homeowner can face. Many home inspectors consider water related issues the number one concern for homeowners. Not only does water damage affect the walls and floor in the room where a leak or flood occurs, water issues can easily lead to long-term structural problems for the house as a whole. Repairing any potential sources of water leaks or water-related damage should be a top priority for any homeowner.

    Common "water" fixes at home include:

  • Gutters and downspouts: Cleaning out rain gutters and downspouts should be a regular checklist item to prevent unexpected overflows. Don't ignore gutters or spouts that appear bent, cracked or twisted - misdirected rainwater can quickly become a huge headache.
  • Stucco: Repair cracks in exterior wall stucco to avoid leaks.
  • Exterior paint: Often seen as purely a cosmetic upgrade, replacing cracked and worn exterior paint with a new paint job or touch up paint (using high quality materials) can help prevent wood rot or other water issues.
  • Re-caulking: Re-caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilets can help keep water from spreading through to walls and floors.
  • Window leaks: Repair and re-seal window leaks to prevent mold issues and structural damage to your home.

    The Roof Over Your Head

    Keeping your roof in good condition helps protect your home from potentially catastrophic water leaks. Water issues stemming from roof problems can lead to a number of costly home repairs in the future. Periodic roof inspections should be a part of your proactive home repair strategy. The frequency at which you schedule professional roof inspections for your home will vary depending on the age, style and materials of your roof.

    A full-scale roof replacement is one of the more costly home repair projects you can undertake, but periodic inspections and subsequent smaller repairs can extend the life of this vital structure.

Patricia " PATTIE" Romano
REALTOR® Associate
RE/MAX
At Barnegat Bay
31 North Main Street ( RT 9 )
Manahawkin,NJ 08050

www.soldbypattie.com
609-978-4046
Direct cell-609-312-9043
eve: 609-978-5985 - till midnight

It's Hometown Service… With International Connections!

Detach yourself emotionally

Buying real estate is an emotional decision, but the opposite needs to be true for selling real estate. Emotions can get in the way of selling your property. The more attached you are, the harder it will be to convince a potential buyer to see themselves as the new homeowner. Try to get used to the idea that the home will no longer be yours. Think of it as a product to be sold. Visit every room and say “good-bye.” Visualize yourself handing over the keys.

First impression

Outside:

Curb appeal can create a good first impression. Cut the lawn weekly while showing your home. Keep the lawn edged, fertilized and watered. Trim the bushes, prune trees and shrubs, remove weeds from the garden. Consider planting seasonally appropriate plants to add color. Plant shrubs to fill space where needed. Keep the yard tidy. Rake the leaves in the fall. Keep the walkways clear of snow in the winter. Store lawn equipment, toys, or any other large objects that may obstruct walkways.

Pressure-wash the siding or add a fresh coat of paint. Use neutral colors such as white or off-white. Repaint or replace the shutters or gutters as needed. A contrasting color is a nice touch. Add a new doormat. Repaint or replace the front door. Make sure the front door opens and closes securely and locks easily. Make sure the house number can easily be read (replace faded numbers and remove obstructions).

Inside:

Paint walls in a neutral color to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Replace burned out light bulbs. Replace carpeting or flooring that is worn out or dated.

Create an impression of order around the house (shirts in the closet facing the same way, coffee mugs in the kitchen with handles pointed in the same direction). Dishes should be put away or stacked in an orderly fashion. Towels should be freshly clean.

Keep the home bright. Open all blinds, drapes and curtains to let in maximum light. Turn on as many lights as possible, including appliance lights and closet lights.

Removing clutter

After years of living in your house, clutter collects everywhere. Removing it is a challenge since you are attached to some of these objects. You may not even be aware how much you’ve accumulated. Bring in another set of eyes such as a friend or neighbor to help point out areas that appear cluttered. Your agent can also help with this.

Remove as many personal items as possible – you want the buyer to visualize themselves as the homeowner and your personal effects could inhibit this process. For example, remove any family photos, books from the bookcases, and accoutrements from tables and shelves. Sell, donate or throw away items you no longer want or need. Rent a storage space to keep kick-knacks, photos, extra furniture, and other personal items. Essential items can be placed in a box and stored in a closet.

Create an open environment , free from clutter. Remove any extra furniture or objects blocking access to closets or cabinets. Keep walkways clear. Create as much space as possible. Allow the buyer’s imagination to flow freely.

*Useful tip: Remove built-in appliances and fixtures you want to keep. It could be a deal breaker if the buyer learns they are not included with the home.

Limit expenses

Fixing up your home for selling need not be an expensive proposition. Focus on the major issues, such as fixing broken windows or a leaky roof. Fixing a leaking roof is less expensive than having a buyer negotiate a new roof.

When inspecting a home, prospective buyers will often “kick the tires.” They’ll play with anything that has a handle or switch, turning on and off the faucets, flicking the lights, opening and closing doors, cabinets and drawers. Replace or polish handles, door knobs, light switches and faucet fixtures. Apply grease to squeaky doors. These are some inexpensive ways to create a good first impression.

Eliminate odors

Smoking and pets are a source of unwanted odors. If you’re a smoker, you may want to move your smoking outside while showing your home. An air neutralizer such as an ozone spray can help eliminate smoking odors while not leaving behind the scent of a masking odor. If you are a pet owner, you may have become desensitized to the odors your pets leave behind, but others are not so immune. Cat owners should change the kitty litter daily and hide the litter box when showing the house. Shampoo the carpets. Use a carpet freshener periodically. Invite a third-party such as a friend or neighbor to assess your efforts.

Air out the house just before a visit from a potential buyer. Fill the home with inviting smells, such as scented potpourri and fresh flowers. Baking cookies, cinnamon rolls or home-made bread adds a warm and inviting atmosphere to your home. Starting a fire in the fireplace is also a nice touch.

If you are considering selling... Give me a call
Patricia " PATTIE" Romano
REALTOR® Associate

RE/MAX At Barnegat Bay
31 North Main Street ( RT 9 )
Manahawkin,NJ 08050

www.soldbypattie.com
609-978-4046
Direct cell-609-312-9043
eve: 609-978-5985 -


Negotiating Tips for Buyers

Negotiating Tips for Buyers

Even with the help of an experienced real estate agent, the negotiating process can be frustrating and confusing. Many of us aren't involved in high-level business negotiations in our day-to-day lives, and even buyers who are savvy businesspersons aren't used to having a personal stake in the outcome. Good negotiating in real estate isn't about coming out victorious over the other side, it's about understanding the seller's motivations and striking a deal that satisfies all parties as much as possible.

The following tips can help you survive the negotiation of a real estate purchase:

Don't focus on price only

Many buyers make the mistake of thinking that price is the only point up for negotiation. Buyers can often negotiate quite a bit of value into a contract in addition to the number on the bottom line, such as a preferred closing date, the seller paying or contributing toward closing costs, concessions for home repairs, and so on.

Don't move too slowly

Real estate can be an aggressive commodity, and buyers who rest on their laurels run the risk of losing out on desired properties. On the other hand, buyers who have their financing in order from the start are best positioned to make aggressive offers and negotiate from a position of strength. The first step to jumping on a hot property is having your ducks in a row from the start.

Should you find a property that matches many of your wish list items, don't make the mistake of being overly hesitant. Make a firm, direct and quick offer to a motivated seller, stipulating a time limit for the response, and you just might get the terms you request.

Avoid responding on the spot

While you want to move fast, particularly in a hot buyer's market, never respond verbally to an offer or counteroffer. Ask for all offers in writing and respond in kind. You can still move quickly and with the help of your real estate and legal representation, but don't make any "handshake agreements" on the spot that may lead to issues later on.

Keep negotiations professional

It can be difficult not to take negotiations personally, especially when your potential home is at stake. The need to stay calm and removed from the situation is a strong reason to have the guidance of a dedicated real estate professional who will represent your interests while keeping an even keel. As negotiations progress, remain composed and direct in all your dealings. Ask the seller to be specific about any terms they aren't satisfied with and ask for simple clarifications regarding the changes they would like to see. If a seller doesn't respond well to that sort of request, be prepared to walk away. Remember that ultimately this is just business, even if from a personal standpoint the stakes are raised.

Don't make a lowball offer without a reason

There can be very valid reasons for making an offer significantly below the seller's asking price. The home may be priced well above comparable homes in the market, may have recently been assessed at a lower value, or may require costly repairs or updates. Making a lower offer under these circumstances is well within reason and, if done tactfully, can persuade the seller to adjust their asking price down.

If you're hoping to get the seller to greatly reduce the price simply to meet your budget or ensure a good "deal," you're not negotiating in good faith and risk alienating the seller entirely. Keep the seller's desire to get a good value for their home in mind when submitting an offer below the asking price, and be prepared to justify the difference.

Don't be afraid to ask

Shrewd negotiators assume that nothing is ever truly off the table, at least not entirely. When done correctly, it doesn't hurt to ask the seller for special concessions. Interested in a piece of antique furniture or the barbeque on the back patio? Hoping the seller will pay to replace worn roofing or siding? Ask for what you want, within reason. As always, be prepared to remain flexible on other terms that the seller may ask for.

Don't obsess

When it comes to the negotiation for what may be your next home, it's easy to become anxious and follow the process relentlessly. Try to remember to relax, and if at all possible leave as much of the process to your professional guides. Doing so will leave you less stressed and more able to approach the negotiation without frayed nerves.

It's Hometown Service… With International Connections!


Patricia " PATTIE" Romano
REALTOR® Associate
RE/MAX
At Barnegat Bay
31 North Main Street ( RT 9 )
Manahawkin,NJ 08050

www.soldbypattie.com
609-978-4046
Direct cell-609-312-9043
eve: 609-978-5985 -

Getting Through The BIG Move

Cut Back -

Moving can be a difficult task. Don't make it more work than necessary by moving furniture, clothing, art or other belongings that you don't actually want or need anymore. Look for opportunities to de-clutter your life and get rid of excess possessions.

Hand it Down: Tell your friends and family you're paring down possessions. You'll feel better, and it'll be easier giving up that expensive couch or antique bureau if you know your best friend will make good use of it.

Yard Sale: The tried and true yard sale can help you get rid of things you don't use and avoid paying to move them. As a bonus, you'll make some extra cash that you can spend on new things in your next home.

Donate: Consider donating unwanted or unsold items to charity. Many charitable causes have free pickup services for donations that make giving your unwanted furniture and items as easy as picking up the phone and scheduling a pickup time.

Packing-

The thought of organizing and packing up a house's worth of clothing, kitchenware, and other items can be daunting to say the least. Even if you are using professional movers, you likely will want to pack and organize certain items yourself. By having a packing strategy, you can make it through the first stage of the move with your sanity intact and avoid last minute panic as the moving trucks pull up.

Inventory: Taking a rough inventory of your stuff will give you a general idea of how many moving boxes you will need. If you will be using a moving company, it's not a bad idea to make a written or photographic inventory to make sure you don't lose anything during the move.

Box Right: Make use of suitcases and plastic storage tubs you already own before searching out moving boxes. You can re-use old cardboard moving boxes, but make sure the cardboard is still in good shape rather than risk damaging any of your items. Purchase frame boxes to protect your pictures and mirrors.

Other Supplies: Purchase high-quality packing tape and plenty of bubble wrap to help safeguard your belongings during the move. Specialty packingff paper or packing fill can be used for box fill instead of newspaper to remove the risk of scratching fragile items.

If you will be moving on your own, you should rent furniture pads, straps and furniture dollies from the rental truck company.

Have a Packing Plan: Begin by packing the items you use least often. Pack one room at a time, making sure to clearly label the contents and which room they are intended for. You can also use a numbering or color coded system to help indicate which boxes have the most frequently used items.

Pack Smart: Large boxes should be filled with lighter items such as clothing. Save heavy items like books and dishes for smaller boxes that will allow for easy lifting. Make sure each box is packed full, but also check the weight of packed boxes before sealing.

"Essentials" Box: Pack one box to keep close at hand (i.e., not buried in the back of the moving truck). The idea is to have easy access to items you may need during the move or immediately after your arrival at the new home.

  • ID
  • Your wallet, checkbook and/or ATM card
  • Bottled water
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste and soap
  • Any prescription medications
  • Aspirin
  • Snacks that don't require refrigeration or cooking (granola bars, nuts, bread, PB, etc)
  • Paper cups, paper plates and plastic utensils
  • Towels
  • Sheets
  • Scissors and tape
  • Closing documents if you're buying a new home
  • Important files
  • Medical records
  • Pet food and pet littler, if applicable

Before Moving Day -

Keep People Updated: Contact or visit your local Post Office to obtain a Change of Address form. You can also obtain this form online at http://www.usps.com. Give a change of address to the following: banks, schools, friends & family, insurance companies, doctors and specialists, cell phone providers, credit card companies and magazine and newspaper subscriptions.

Clean in Waves: Trying to clean your whole house at once (either before or after moving day) can be an overwhelming prospect. Instead, begin cleaning any rooms in your house that have been emptied such as closets, basements or attics.

Get Help-

One of the most important moving tips: you don't have to do it alone.

Move with the Pros: A professional moving company can take the care of all the hard work, leaving you to kick back and supervise. If you feel like avoiding the packing stage as well, most companies will pack your items for an additional fee. Prices and reliability can vary widely between companies, so compare quotes from at least three local companies before choosing a moving company. Don't rely on over-the-phone price quotes from the moving company you select: make sure the moving company comes to your home to accurately assess the space and approximate weight of your shipment. Make sure to check their history with the Better Business Bureau or American Moving & Storage Association.

Moving Consultant: If the mere sight of a cardboard box leaves you feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring someone to handle the nitty-gritty of your move. These consultants are the relocation industry's answer to wedding planners and travel agents -- they can arrange for movers, pack your stuff, switch over your utilities, and transfer school and medical records. If you can swing the price tag, or if your company is covering relocation costs, a consultant can make your move relatively stress-free.

Portable storage: Companies like PODS, U Haul and 1-800-PACKRAT will deliver a portable storage unit right outside your door. Before making the call, make sure you have enough parking on your property to accommodate the size of the temporary storage unit. Fill the storage space at your own pace. When you're finally ready to move, give the service a call and they will deliver the storage pod to your new home. Portable storage units still force you to do all the work, but they are a low cost solution and can serve as an alternative if there is a gap between the time you need to leave your old home and can access the new property.

Rental trucks: Renting a box truck can be a cost-effective alternative to hiring a moving company -- as long as you plan ahead. A 10-foot moving truck will generally hold an apartment's worth of stuff; while a 24-foot truck can accommodate a three-bedroom house. It's best to choose a larger truck; you won't have to cram items into a smaller space, and for cross-town moves you will avoid wasting time on multiple trips. Read the fine print about mileage allowances and fuel surcharges, and make sure you know the rules regarding when and where you can return the truck. Depending on the size of the truck and length of the move, you may consider adding supplemental insurance through the rental company in the event of dings or dents to the truck.

Friends and family: Free labor is great, but you'll likely still need to rent a moving truck (unless everyone in your family has a super duty pickup). Make sure you have every possible detail taken care of before your volunteer labor force shows up; the last thing you want is to leave your friends and family waiting while you pack the last boxes or run to go pick up the rental truck. Ask friends and family to help with packing and loading to a reasonable degree, and expect to return the favor when it's their turn to move. And common courtesy calls for you to provide lunch and refreshments for your friendly work crew.

After the Truck is Loaded -

Once you have everything packed away into the trucks, you'll want to pass through your house and check off a few final items before getting on to your new home.

Damage Control: Check for any damages to walls, doors or frames caused by furniture being moved. The last hassle you need is to lose part of your security deposit or have any issues with the homebuyers because your furniture dinged a door frame or left a scratch in the wall.

Leave Behinds: Re-check the house for anything you might have accidently forgotten. Look through the attic, all closets, the garage, any crawl spaces, the medicine cabinet, and the drawer under your oven.