Linking the Latest Technology to Old Fashion Service.

"Here's the fascinating Tax Lien story"

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 06:45:52 -0600

It all started when Ted (Ted is Ted Thomas) heard a neighbor friend talking about driving to Arizona to attend a Tax Lien Certificate Auction.

According to his friend, the county government was going to auction thousands of tax lien certificates that paid high interest rates to anyone who wanted to put up the money.

Now, like a lot of people, the LAST thing Ted ever wanted in his life was more government or more taxes so he dismissed his friend's talk as just a little bit crazy!

But his friend persisted and was more than passionate about convincing him that this tax lien certificate auction was a good deal.

Skeptical and disbelieving as Ted was, his friend practically dragged him into his home and showed him copies of checks; money his friend had received from the Government!

Ted was astonished to see that the tax lien certificates had amazing returns of 16%, some for 18%. In Iowa 24% and in Texas 25%. He was fascinated and pleasantly shocked.

This was documented proof that this government sponsored program was real.

Since then, Ted has dedicated his life to sharing this little-known investment strategy with thousands of people across the world.

He's visited over thirty states and thousand of counties and interviewed dozens of government officers and venture capitalists to create the most comprehensive program for low-risk and high-yield returns available in the USA.

Until now, Ted has shared his top-secret strategies for taking advantage of these hidden government programs with only a select few clients..

... but now he is ready to share these secrets with you!

Tax lien certificates can have amazing returns. There are others who will sell you the training, (search the Taxlienlady.) This is a business not a deposit. Happy investing!

Paul Stillwaggon,
For All Your Real Estate Needs
Contact New Jersey Estates
Real Estate Group
E-mail: njestates@gmail.com
Web: http://www.newjerseyestates.net
908-561-5492 (Paul S) 908-310-1358 (Cell)

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

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HOA Reserve Study Conundrum

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:35:42 -0600

Some states have specific legislation that requires homeowner associations to have and follow a 30 year repair and replacement plan known as a "reserve study". It is the kind of plan that all HOA boards should follow even if no law exists since that's what good businesses do: plan ahead. Failure to plan for these expensive events inevitably leads to inadequate maintenance, declining property values and dreaded special assessments.

But there are now several new twists that make the idea of a reserve study even more compelling. In most states, HOA boards are allowed to set the level of reserve funding (how much money is set aside each year to address future costs). The fairest approach is the 100% funding model which requires all members along the 30 year time line to contribute a fair share of future costs. However, some boards have for political reasons put less in reserves (sometimes much less) to placate current owners that want to the obligation paid by future owners who have no say in the matter (sound familiar).

Now enters several new 600 pound influences into the reserve funding debate. In December 2007, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the entities that have in past years underwritten most condominium mortgage loans) enacted the following requirements for condominiums where their loans were made being proposed:

The condominium is required to have a reserve study.
At least 10% of the annual budget must be put into reserves.

FHA (the government agency that insures low down payment loans which have become a huge part of the current mortgage market) is proposing to establish even stricter requirements for condominiums including:

Developer controlled condominium reserve funds are required to 100% funded.
After developer turnover condominiums are required to be at least 60% funded.

Since Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA are the 600 pound gorillas in the current condo mortgage market, this means is that if your condominium does not 1.) have a reserve study and 2.) maintain the indicated level of reserve funds, these entities will not underwrite your buyer's or your refinance loan. Folks, this is HUGE.

Condominiums that have an underfunded reserve study need to take decisive action to comply or risk losing vital lending sources. Condominiums that have no reserve study need one as soon as possible and to fund it to indicated levels.

For more innovative homeowner association management strategies, subscribe to Regenesis.net.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

DOE Solar Decathlon Coming to National Mall

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:35:48 -0600

20 University Teams to Compete in the 2009 DOE Solar Decathlon

Read all about it: http://www.energy.gov/8097.htm

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

7 Things All Buyers Ought to Know

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:59:15 -0600

"Ignorance is bliss" was never said about real estate purchases for 7 good reasons:

1. "Knowledge is bliss" may not make it as a buyer's slogan either, because you don't have to know it all-just what's relevant to success as you define it. Different sets of knowledge are important in different buying situations, so the "bliss" generalization may not be specific enough to be useful. "If it is to be, it's up to me" could be an excellent mantra since determination will drive buyers, both to discover what they don't know and then, to fill that knowledge gap. This combined effort will assure a buyer is well equipped to make confident buying decisions.

2. Generalizations are self-defeating when evaluating properties since it is how each is unique that addresses specific value to a specific buyer-if you'll excuse the generalization. All first-time buyers should not seek the same type of real estate solution just because they have never owned real estate before. Each of these buyers, whether they purchase alone, as a couple or with several friends or family members, has a different set of needs, weaknesses and advantages. When generalities are stressed, real estate solutions often concentrate on weaknesses like low down payments. Customized solutions, based on real estate knowledge, should focus on strengths which would counterbalance apparent weaknesses. For instance, first-time buyers may have more creative determination, which can allow them to tolerate living with boarders or tenants. These contributors to mortgage payments create a number of financial benefits and can turn an otherwise financially-out-of-reach property into a great investment solution. (See Pur-Plexing for more on this topic.)

3. Assumptions cost money and waste time. Assume nothing, including that you know what you don't know. Experienced real estate professionals have a wealth of practical knowledge available to fill your knowledge gaps, but you have to be receptive to gain the full benefit. For instance, do you ask questions and listen to the answers? Find out what you're assuming when you view properties, evaluate value and prepare an offer to purchase. The conscious effort and deliberate intent of this clarification means money in your pocket. Determination will enable you to put your advantages into action and use the real estate professional's knowledge to overcome weaknesses. Remember the parsing of "assume" ( make an "ass-[out of]-u-[and]-me" ) if you find yourself thinking or saying, "But I assumed..." and get back in control.

4. Fear has driven too many buyers to act in haste and repent in "if only I'd..." whining that can go on for years. Fear of missing out in a down market or in an up market, or in a variety of other "losing out" scenarios, can cause buyers to dive into a buying or not buying decision which may not be in their best interest. That's why working with a buyer agent, who places your interests first, can be a great strategy for ensuring you have all the knowledge necessary to protect yourself and gain financial advantage at the same time.

5. The impossible may just take a little longer in real estate, but the impossible can happen. Your dream property can be within reach wherever you start financially, but you'll need a solid set of strategies to get you there, not just dreams. Serious about owning your own horse ranch or waterfront castle? Talk to an experienced real estate professional who works in your ideal location to chart a reverse-engineered, long-term course toward that goal. With each property you buy along this clear path, you'll move closer to your high-value goal. It may take two or more real estate purchases and some clever investing, but if will be an interesting progression. If you're determined and build the right team-real estate professional, lawyer, mortgage broker, home inspector...-what's impossible?

6. The unexpected must be expected when buying a home, cottage or investment property. Worst case scenarios, contingency strategies and "Plan B" alternatives are creative tools in preparing to achieve financial gains and desired priorities. These approaches help you react favourably to the unexpected, but hopefully not unanticipated, and take advantage of the opportunities that lie there. Experienced professionals can predict the types of expected and unexpected happenings relevant to your situation. It could be taking advantage of the timing for new listings or the types of lenders beyond banks that hold financing choices for you. Negotiations are all about the unexpected. Most buyers are so focused on purchase price they forget that closing date, number of conditions, what's included in the purchase and other factors can weigh in to reduce the final sale price-that's where professional negotiators come in.

7. Cashflow is king. Beyond the purchase price, cash is necessary to pay for lawyer fees, title insurance or a survey, reimbursing sellers who paid the whole year's property taxes, and on the list of closing costs goes. The professionals involved will provide you with details on possible expenses. While you may have enough cash to close, do you have enough cashflow for owning? Over the first year, unexpected expenses can crop up, so create a projected ownership budget at the same time you go over purchasing costs. This foresight should keep you out of the "house rich-cash poor" category.

With real estate, the best goal is not "buying," but "owning and enjoying" for a lot of great reasons.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

"New Oil Refinery Opens Despite Investigation Into Fire"

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:22:47 -0600

COLUMBUS, Ohio-A new business for Columbus is already under investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration because of a recent fire.

Heartland Refinery is a company near Port Columbus International Airport and recycles used motor oil, stripping it of impurities and reselling the base oil to other companies.

The refinery, described as a green business, had a fire in a truck loading area on October 13.

The fire was caused by static electricity which is generated when oil runs through the pipes.

"They even had that problem on the Alaskan pipeline," said Bill Snedegar, CEO of Heartland Refinery.

When asked if the plant is safe, Snedegar replied, "Absolutely safe. What created that fire and it wasn't like a fire, it was like a spark, a flash and they caught it quickly with the fire extinguishers."

"The product that we handle has what's called low conductivity and we learned a tough lesson," said Michael Kopf, the safety compliance officer at Heartland. "Even a well-designed system like we had wasn't enough to deal with that."

In the time since the accident, Heartland officials said they have improved the system of dealing with static electricity through better grounding, and by extending a flow tube so the oil is pumped into a truck below a fluid line which should prevent arcing.

"It has been the bane of our industry from what I've learned," said Kopf.

OSHA confirmed it is investigating the fire at Heartland Refinery Group and investigators were at the plant Thursday.

The plant is continuing operations during the investigation and OSHA says it could be six months before any citations are issued, if they are issued at all.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Making Green Jobs Safe Jobs

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:37:55 -0600

I feel like I'm pretty up on the push for green jobs (creating jobs in the building and installation of wind turbines, construction of energy-efficient buildings, etc.) but this morning at the APHA meeting, I learned something about the occupational health angle of this movement. At a session from the Blue-Green Alliance, Walter Jones of the Laborers' Health and Safety Fund of North America and TJ Lentz of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health spoke about making green jobs safe jobs.

So far, it seems that the shift toward greener buildings hasn't done much to make the construction or maintenance of these places safe for workers. (One positive point is that the use of safer paints and solvents can reduce workers' as well as residents' exposure to fumes.) Designers of buildings don't generally pay much attention to the ways that their plans will affect the way workers interact with them, and design schools don't tend to include occupational health and safety in their curricula. Jones noted that between 1990 and 2003, 42% of all US construction-related fatalities were linked to design.

Problems include a lack of anchor points for workers to tie off to when they're working off the ground, and parapets that meet building code requirements (being at least 30 inches high) but not OSHA requirements (39 to 45 inches). When it comes to wind turbines, fall protection is also crucial, and the inside of the tower is a confined space - but designers rarely address anchor points or tower access and ventilation issues.

Occupational health and safety advocates are working to get safety issues on designers' radar. The American Association of Safety Engineers has begun working on a standard to protect workers involved in windpower facilities, and NIOSH runs a Prevention Through Design program. As we all throw our support behind green jobs, we should make sure that "green" includes worker health and safety.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Business leases are totally different

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:34:24 -0600

Take time and do your homework. If you are rushed you won't be able to properly assess the marketplace to ensure that the needs of your business are met when you're signing a lease. If you have a lease renewal coming up, give yourself lots of time to renegotiate. Then if you can't come to agreeable terms or decide it's time to move to a different space, you have plenty of time to get everything in order for the transition.

Business leases are not like dwelling rentals. Business leases are totally different from personal dwelling rentals. In a personal dwelling rental, costs are usually restricted to a set monthly price plus specified expenses such as heat and water. The landlord could take responsibility for repair expenses. With business leases, there may be many other costs above the base lease price that will be charged back to the tenants. Outside of your written lease agreement, there is nothing like the protection offered to people renting home space. Before negotiating a lease, take time to understand what costs - above the basic lease costs - the landlord will charge you over the year. Know what actions you can legally take under certain situations, such as the late payment of rent.

Negotiate. Landlords and Realtors will expect you to negotiate, but would love for you to take the first deal that they offer. Doing anything less than negotiating will likely mean that you pay more, or that critical clauses to protect your best interests are left out of the lease agreement. In the negotiation process it helps to be prepared and don't appear too eager. Put your pride aside and be ready to negotiate the best possible lease. Start low, ask for extras such as free rent, and ask for more than you hope to get. If your first offer is accepted, you didn't start low enough!

If this is your first time, practice. Talk to different landlords, ask lots of questions, inquire about different incentives, and try to get a feel for the process of negotiating a lease. This process will help you understand the market, and will help you get ready to enter into actual negotiations once you have an understanding of what's available, what you need, and what you can ask for during negotiations.

Get expert feedback. As you move through the negotiation process, consult someone with the expertise (like a lawyer or accountant) who can act in your best interests. An expert should be able to help you include clauses that will benefit your business, tell you what to ask for during negotiations, and protect you from signing a lease agreement that could cost you money and problems in the long run. They will help you answer questions such as: does the deal look like it could cause your business to incur any unexpected costs? Are operating costs shared based on the percentage of space you take up in the overall building, or are they based on the number of tenants in the building, even if there are expenses incurred for vacant units? Does the deal allow you to reduce the cost of your rental rate if you renegotiate after the lease expires? Do you have first right to lease your space on a long term basis if you currently have a month-to-month lease? There are many questions to ask; an expert can anticipate the questions and ensure that you are protected from making costly mistakes.

Understand rental rates. Square footage rental rates won't likely reflect the true price of leasing and rates are not always as they appear. Some may be artificially high with several free months of rent offered to drive down the actual price paid over the duration of the lease, a situation that benefits landlords who want to maintain the value of their properties. Others may increase at set times and in set increments over duration of the lease. In some cases, you may think you're paying a set amount per square foot, but when the effective square footage is examined you may find that you're paying for space that doesn't really exist, based on the square footage calculations used by the landlord. As well, the landlord will likely add additional charges on top of the base rent (often quoted as cost per square foot). This could include operating costs (beware of any costs that are inflated with capital improvements) and marketing costs.

Understand space. You'll need to know how the landlord has calculated the unit space. Is it based on the actual square footage? Does it include space that doesn't actually exist? Is it accurate? When you are looking for a certain unit size, start your search by looking at smaller spaces in the building. It's often more desirable to the lessor to lease smaller spaces; by starting with a smaller space, and then inquiring about a larger space, the landlord may offer incentives to entice you to take the bigger space.

Location, location, location. It's an old saying, but for many retail businesses this factor can make - or break, the business. Choose the best location you can, taking into account as many factors as possible. Who are the other tenants? If a brand-name tenant is a big draw, are you sure they're staying? What is the traffic to the space like - and what are the demographics of that traffic? Is there adequate parking? Easy access? Will you be butting heads with a competitor? Think of all the factors that are important to your business, and then look for the property that will offer the best "return on location".

Be prepared to walk. No matter how emotionally you may be tied to a potential deal, if you aren't ready to walk away from the table you won't be able to negotiate the best deal for your business. Being able to walk away from a deal is empowering. It gives you the ability to control the final outcome. And to ensure that you get the best possible deal for your business.

Put it in writing. When you're ready to sign, make sure that all verbal agreements and promises are included in the written agreement. No matter what promises are made, if they are not included in the body of the lease, they will likely be excluded by a clause in the lease that says something like: "this is the entire agreement". Whether you've negotiated for several months of free rent, you've made arrangements for future lease negotiations, or you've agreed on other terms, if it's not in the agreement you could face difficulties later on. By putting everything in the written agreement you may avoid unnecessary problems and time and money loss later on.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Frequent Questions on LFG Energy Projects

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:28:24 -0600

What is landfill gas (LFG)?

Landfill gas is created when organic waste in a municipal solid waste landfill decomposes. This gas consists of about 50% methane (CH₄), the primary component of natural gas, about 50% carbon dioxide (CO₂), and a small amount of non-methane organic compounds. Instead of allowing LFG to escape into the air, it can be captured, converted, and used as an energy source. Using LFG helps to reduce odors and other hazards associated with LFG emissions, and helps prevent methane from migrating into the atmosphere and contributing to local smog and global climate change.

Methane Home: http://www.epa.gov/lmop/faq-1.htm

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Washington state to implement e-recycling law.

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:26:37 -0600

The Washington state SenateThe Washington State Senate is the upper house of the Washington State Legislature. The body consists of 49 Senators, respresenting an equal number of districts across the state, each with a population of nearly 120,000.

..... Click the link for more information. has passed a bill that aims to boost recyclingrecycling, the process of recovering and reusing waste products-from household use, manufacturing, agriculture, and business-and thereby reducing their burden on the environment.
..... Click the link for more information. of electronics in the state.

Senate Bill 6428 passed the Washington state Senate by a vote of 38-11 and the House by a vote of 69-29.

The bill requires electronics manufacturers to develop and fund an electronics recycling program in the state that uses community drop-off centers run by retailers, nonprofits and government agencies.

In a press release, Rep. Brian SullivanBrian Sullivan is a women's basketball assistant coach at Bellarmine University. Bellarmine is an NCAA Division II program that competes in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. This is Sullivan's second stint with the program, following one season with the Lady Knights in 2003-04.
..... Click the link for more information. (D-Mukilteo), chair of the House Natural Resources, Ecology and Parks Committee and sponsor of the House version of the bill, says, "The beauty of this approach is that it makes recycling simple and free for consumers and links electronics recycling with electronics manufacturingThis article presents a typical manufacturing process of an electronic assembly.

Component manufacturing Components such as resistors, capacitors and integrated circuits are generally made by specialized contractors.

..... Click the link for more information., allowing companies to save money if they reduce their use of toxic materials."

The bill was supported by Hewlett Packard, Amazon.com, Wal-Mart and the Washington Retail Association as well as by local governments and environmentalists, according to according to
prep.

1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians.

2. In keeping with: according to instructions.

3. Sullivan.

The bill has been sent to Gov. Christine Gregoire Christine O'Grady "Chris" Gregoire (born March 24, 1947) is the Democratic governor of the U.S. state of Washington. Gregoire's election to the office in 2004 was notable for her historically slim margin of victory over Republican Dino Rossi, who had appeared to defeat Gregoire on for her signature.

According to the bill, manufacturers must participate in an independent plan or the standard plan to implement and finance the program no later than Jan. 1, 2009, and must register with the state by Jan. 1,2007, and annually thereafter.

Manufacturers must submit their initial independent plans or the standard plan by Feb. 1, 2008, according to the bill. The state Department of Ecology will review each plan.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Long-Term Rates Fall to Lowest Level in Five Weeks

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:32:04 -0600

McLean, VA - Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 4.91 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending November 12, 2009, down from last week when it averaged 4.98 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.14 percent.

The 15-year FRM this week averaged 4.36 percent with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 4.40 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.81 percent.

The five-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) averaged 4.29 percent this week, with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 4.35 percent. A year ago, the 5-year ARM averaged 5.98 percent.

The one-year Treasury-indexed ARM averaged 4.46 percent this week with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 4.47 percent. At this time last year, the 1-year ARM averaged 5.33 percent.

"Mortgage rates eased further over the week, helping to promote an affordable home-purchase market and stimulate refinance," said Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist. "This comes at a time when house price declines are moderating and consumer demand for prime mortgages at commercial banks has picked up."

"The National Association of Realtors® reported that national median sales price of existing homes fell 11.2 percent in the third quarter relative to the same period last year. Moreover, almost 20 percent of the top metropolitan areas experienced positive annual growth, compared to only about 12 percent in the first quarter of this year."

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Solar power goes underground

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 05:50:49 -0600

Scientists use fiber optics instead of solar panels to capture sun's energy

Like the idea of free and clean solar power but hate the thought of ugly, black panels covering the roof of your home? Help is on the way.

Scientists in Georgia and New Jersey are taking solar panels off the roofs of homes and cars, and moving them into basements and walls. The new panels could unobtrusively provide solar power while simultaneously protecting the delicate photovoltaics.

"No one wants to buy a big, nice, fancy car with a huge solar panel on the roof," said Zhong Wang, a scientist at Georgia Tech designing what he calls the world's first 3-D solar panel system.

Story continues below ↓

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Challenges for Sales Professionals

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:27:00 -0600

The most significant challenge for sales professionals is their time control. How a sales professional uses their time determines income. The sales professionals in the top 10% of their industry control, use, and invest their time more wisely and effectively than the lower performing sales people.

The Champion Performers are more effective with their time blocking schedule than lower performers. The concept of time blocking is not new. Most of us have been exposed to it but have yet to master it. Through years of study and coaching sales professionals, I have observed some common challenges that most sales people experience when trying to master their time blocking schedule.

1. Over access problems: The proper screening of calls by an effective gatekeeper can save hours weekly. Too often, issues, problems, and challenges that could be handled by another penetrate the walls and enter our world. These problems could be minor or major in nature, but granting unfiltered access creates large amounts of lost time for many sales people.

There should be a limit in terms of time and people who have access to you. Successful people have a short list of people who have unfiltered access to them. They do not deviate from this short list of people. These people on the short list can interrupt the schedule any hour of the day based on their importance.

My short list includes my wife, my father, my attorney, and a few key associates. The people on the short list are often extremely important to your personal life. There are very few clients that find their way on truly successful people's short lists.

There should be times in your schedule when you are uninterrupted. The biggest error that sales people make is getting sucked into the interruption game. They have limited structure for their time, so access to them becomes easy. Access should be granted, not taken. You are the controller of access.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Pennsylvania Releases Funding For Additional Solar Projects

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:41:40 -0600

Gov. Edward G. Rendell, D-Pa., has approved more than $23 million for 36 new solar and other alternative energy projects. The Commonwealth Financing Authority administers Pennsylvania's economic stimulus programs, including the $650 million Alternative Energy Investment Fund.

Among other recipients in this latest funding round, Chatham University will receive a $113,037 solar energy program grant to purchase and install solar thermal systems for two residence halls on its Pittsburgh campus. Chatham is partnering with system manufacturer Solar Tomorrow to complete the project.

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens was approved for a $2 million loan to build its Center for Sustainable Landscapes Building on a remediated brownfield site in Pittsburgh. The new building will use the latest technologies, including photovoltaic installations.

Earth Rising Ventures Inc. was approved for $1.02 million for an LEED-platinum, mixed-use, high-performance building construction project in Kimberton Village's historic district, on a 1.4-acre brownfield site in East Pikeland Township. The building will use photovoltaic electricity and geothermal heat pumps.

SunEdison received approval for its $5 million solar energy program loan for a $19.9 million solar energy system at its Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. facility in Carlisle. The company will invest $14.9 million for the system, which will cover 14.5 acres next to its facility.

Borrego Solar Systems Inc. will receive a $649,152 grant towards a $2.3 million solar photovoltaic system project for at the Tasty Baking Co. Borrego will provide $1.6 million in matching funds.

Dallastown Area School District will receive a $1 million solar energy program grant for a $3.4 million rooftop solar power system on the middle-school/high-school building in York Township. The school district will contribute $2.4 million.

SOURCE: Pennsylvania Office of the Governor

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Silk 101: Paterson, New Jersey is America's "Silk City"

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 06:59:27 -0600

Oddly, in 1996 the United Nations General Assembly declared 2009 as the International Year of Natural Fibers, ostensibly to raise awareness and stimulate demand for natural fibers, especially silk. Well, maybe it's working. These days, silk is one of the most popular fabrics in window fashion. Nothing compares to the texture, luster, hand (how well the fabric drapes), and brilliance of silk.

In the Odyssey, when Odysseus, while pretending to be someone else, is questioned by Penelope about her husband's clothing, he says that he wore a shirt "gleaming like the skin of a dried onion," which almost certainly refers to the lustrous quality of silk fabric. When made into stationary side panels and draped from a distinctive decorative rod, silk flanks your window, framing and defining it, and invariable draws the outside scenery in, creating a truly dramatic focal point in any room.

Silk has a long and fabulously rich history. It began, according to legend, sometime in the 27th century BCE when an errant silk worm's cocoon fell into the tea cup of the unsuspecting Chinese empress Lei Zu. The young and curious girl of fourteen decided to unroll the thread of the cocoon to see what was inside. Then, she had the brilliant idea of weaving the thread into fabric. By studying the life of the silk worm she soon began raising them and eventually became known as the goddess of silk. Thus began, what is known today as sericulture - the art of raising silk worms. Silk would eventually leave China in the hair of a princess promised to a prince of Khotan, in southern Asia, probably in the first century CE. The princess, refusing to go without the fabric she loved, would finally break the imperial ban on silk worm exportation.

After thousands of years of China's monopoly on silk production, many other countries eventually started
producing and trading it as well. An extensive interconnected network of trade routes across the Asian continent connecting East, South, and Western Asia with the Mediterranean world, as well as North and
Northeast Africa and Europe began to develop. Many luxuries of the time were traded -- spices, metals,
textiles - everything from slaves to rhubarb. Eventually it became know as the 'Silk Road,' in large part
for the role silk trading played in world commerce at that time . In fact, the silk road was a significant
factor in the development of the great civilizations of China, India, Egypt, Persia, Arabia, and Rome, and
in several respects helped lay the foundations for the modern world.

By the 13th century, Italian silk was a significant source of trade. Venetian merchants traded extensively
in silk and encouraged silk growers to settle in Italy. The wealth of Florence was largely built on textiles,
both wool and silk, and other cities like Lucca also grew rich on the trade. Even Napoleon ordered large
amounts of silk for his many homes in order to bolster the French silk industry. Consider that in order to
produce 1 kg of silk, 104 kg of mulberry leaves need to be eaten by 3000 silkworms. That means that it
takes about 5000 silkworms to make a pair of draperies to dress your window. It's no wonder so much
wealth was created by this single commodity throughout history.

Fast-forward to the late 19th century, Paterson, New Jersey. Established in the 1790s, massive brick mill
buildings quickly began to line the canals of Paterson to transform the power of the 77 foot water falls
that spill into the Passaic River Gorge. Although these mills manufactured many things -- locomotives,
Colt revolvers, aircraft engines, and cotton textiles -- Paterson began producing such large quantities of
silk it quickly became known as the 'Silk City.'

Today, over 30 countries worldwide are producers of silk. The major ones are China and India, with 54% and 14% of total production, respectively. Now, you may be thinking that this ancient fabric that managed to survive the vagaries of time and the whims of fashion is beyond your means; that it's only for the obnoxiously rich and disgustingly wealthy. Not so. You don't have to spend a Napoleonic fortune, nor travel to some obscure, remote village along the silk road in order to satisfy your drapery dreams. In fact, you don't even have to wait for them to be custom made.

You don't have to look much further for silk draperies than just outside Paterson, New Jersey, the original American 'Silk City.' Just a few minutes to the northeast and southwest are the cities of Ridgewood and Bernardsville, respectively. It is here, at the Curtain Exchange, that you can purchase gorgeous, ready-made, silk panels for your home, right off the shelf. And they're reasonably priced, too. Flanking the walls of their showroom are fabulous Taffetas, Velvets, and embroidered, multi-colored Dupioni silk panels. You won't have any trouble finding just the right color and texture for you home. If you don't live close to these places you can also find terrific ready-made silk panels at Pottery Barn and Restoration
Hardware. Or, if you like to shop on-line, a fantastic resource for purchasing spectacular silk draperies is at Half Price Drapes.com. Although the name leaves a bad feeling in your stomach, the selection and value will make up for it.

No matter where you purchase your draperies, there are a few essential things to keep in mind. First, since silk is sensative to the sun you should consider secondary shades or blinds to go behind your draperies. Or, you need to have your panels lined and interlined to protect them from the sun. This will give them a fuller body and will allow them to drape more luxioriously as well.

Second, remember, silk brings a rich color and texture to your room. As the light catches the fabric it produces an almost three dimensional effect and can produce a pattern that is often confused with wrinkles. Even a single color may vary considerably with different lighting, or your sidehangs me look like they just fell of a rikshaw in Calcutta. For this reason you should view your fabric in both artificial and actual daylight to be sure it is right for you. If you like that just-pressed look for your draperies, you'll never be in love with silk.

Lastly, silk is delicate. Always have it dry cleaned. Better still, vacuum your draperies with an upholstery brush attachment at least once a month to avoid having them cleaned altogether. This will go a long way in keeping them looking beautiful for years to come.

Whether it's formal draperies, shades, bedding, upholstery, or just some throw pillows, remember: There's about 5000 silk worms working their cocoons off, right this minute, to add warmth, beauty, richness, and drama to your undressed windows, and bring joy to your life.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Asphalt Shingle Recycling:

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 06:44:18 -0600

Several states have sponsored laboratory and field studies looking at the feasibility of using RAS in HMA pavement. States such as Georgia, Ohio, North Carolina, Minnesota and Texas have performed laboratory studies. Many other laboratory studies may be found on the Technical Reports and Articles pages. Field studies also have been conducted in which portions of highways or trailways have been paved with asphalt containing recycled shingles and have been monitored over time. Pennsylvania , North Carolina and Minnesota have conducted such trials.

Benefits shown from these studies include:

Increased stiffness of the asphalt
Decreased cracking
No effect on moisture sensitivity
Decreased susceptibility to rutting
Decreased optimum content of virgin asphalt cement.

Because of the benefits shown by using RAS in HMA pavement, several states allow a certain percentage of RAS to be used in HMA pavements.

Florida up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
Georgia up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
Indiana up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
Maryland up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
Michigan up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
New Jersey up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
North Carolina up to 5% manufacturer's scrap
Ohio "certain percentage of recycled material"
Pennsylvania up to 5% manufacturer's scrap

Several states have established dedicated offices to increasing the use and applications of recycled materials in highway projects.

Click on your state to find out what they are doing in the area of shingle recycling

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Investor Report: Commercial Investing 2010

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 06:00:10 -0600

If you're a commercial property investor looking toward 2010, where are the most promising real estate markets in the U.S.?

The Urban Land Institute teamed with consulting firm Pricewaterhouse Coopers and asked more than 900 investors, developers and lenders that question recently, and came up with some intriguing answers.

The top market for heads-up investors among literally hundreds around the country turns out to be Washington D.C.

The nation's capital, where you send your tax money and where your federal government continues to grow, turns out to be the only truly "recession proof" market in the U.S., according to the real estate experts polled in the study.

Why? Because Washington thrives when the economy falls apart, thrives when the country is at war, and does really well when the political party in power believes in big government, more agencies and more federal spending.

And that's precisely where we are right now.

"While hard pressed lenders pull back in most cities," according to the Urban Land Institute's summary of the study, in Washington "major insurers and banks have taken a long term view and are actively providing financing for new (commercial real estate) deals. "

No shortage of equity or debt for the right project -- if it's in D.C.

And it's not just the city itself that's prospering. The Virginia and Maryland suburbs are adding high tech, defense and scientific jobs by the thousands.

According to the study, "Bethesda (Maryland), home to the National Institutes of Health, should benefit from increased biomedical (federal) spending," and the close-in Virginia suburbs are expected to grow defense-related jobs and new construction as well.

Ranking number two after Washington for commercial property investment in 2010 is San Francisco, with especially good prospects for apartments, warehouses, offices and hotels. Metropolitan San Francisco not only is a tourist and convention magnet, but combines strong center-city employment with the high-tech industry in suburban Silicon Valley.

The third rated top investment prospect in the survey might be a surprise to some: Austin, Texas, with lots of technology businesses growing and needing more space. The survey ranked it near the top because of the city's pro-business political climate and low taxes, both of which should, it said, "contribute to future growth and continuing corporate relocations. Austin fits the "brainpower" model that attracts investment even when the national economy is soft.

Rounding out the top ten hot spots for commercial and income-property investors for the coming year, by rank: Boston, New York, Houston, Seattle, Raleigh/Durham North Carolina, Denver and San Jose, California.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Energy Projects and Candidate Landfills

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 05:49:21 -0600

As of December 2008, approximately 480 landfill gas (LFG) energy projects were operational in the United States. These 480 projects generate approximately 12 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year and deliver 255 million cubic feet per day of LFG to direct-use applications. EPA estimates that approximately 520 additional landfills present attractive opportunities for project development.

Read all about the Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP):

http://epa.gov/lmop/proj/index.htm

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Fire Sprinklers Set to Become Standard in New Homes; Group Warns of Inferior Cabling

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:52:49 -0600

Members of the International Code Council's Residential Building Code Committee (RBCC) have made it clear that fire sprinklers are destined to become a standard feature in all new homes. The fire sprinkler requirement was added to the International Residential Code (IRC) last year, and it is scheduled to become effective January 1, 2011, in states that adopt the latest version of this code. Currently, 48 states use the IRC as a basis of regulating residential construction, although some states lag behind in adopting updates.

At a hearing held earlier this week, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) had petitioned the International Code Council (ICC), which publishes the IRC, to repeal the fire sprinkler requirement, but the RBCC rejected that request by a vote of 7 to 4.

"This vote is significant in two ways," said Chief Ronny J. Coleman, president of the IRC Fire Sprinkler Coalition and former fire marshal for the state of California. "Not only did the RBCC reject the homebuilders' request to repeal the sprinkler requirement, but if you look at the vote, every member of the committee, other than the four who are appointed by NAHB, voted to uphold the fire sprinkler requirement." Following the committee vote, NAHB attempted to use a new procedure in the ICC process that allows members assembled at the hearing to overrule the committee decision, but the members made it clear that they were standing firm on protecting American families from fire. More than 1,000 ICC members in attendance voted overwhelmingly to affirm the RBCC's decision.

"ICC's message on this matter is pretty clear," said Jeffrey Shapiro, P.E., executive director of the IRC Fire Sprinkler Coalition. "Their membership has now supported the home fire sprinkler requirement at both the 2008 and 2009 annual hearings, and each of those votes passed by more than a two-thirds margin." Those decisions have now been further affirmed by the RBCC, which is a balanced, consensus committee that includes homebuilders, building and fire safety officials, architects and engineers.

"People who buy new homes that comply with the IRC fire sprinkler and smoke alarm requirements can sleep peacefully knowing that their families and their homes are protected from fire," said Meri-K Appy, president of the non-profit Home Safety Council.

While fire sprinklers provide a level of comfort, further prevention is sometimes necessary. Take for example the recent announcement from the Communications Cable and Connectivity Association, Inc. (CCCA) that warns of an increased risk of fire from offshore-manufactured communications cable products which fail to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) minimum requirements for fire safety. It's a problem, the CCCA says, that continues to plague the industry and marketplace.

"As we witnessed last year, the failing products were made with inferior materials and designs to save on production costs and they predictably failed the minimum fire safety requirements," said CCCA Executive Director, Frank Peri, whose organization's test results showed that six of the eight samples failed to meet the minimum NFPA code requirements for low flame spread and/or smoke generation for installation in commercial buildings, schools and multi-tenant residences. "All of the failing samples exhibited catastrophic results, indicating an unacceptable public safety hazard still exists."

Cables selected for the tests were all procured from North American distributor's inventory between March and May 2009 and were comprised of riser and plenum rated Category 5e and Category 6 cables, which are the predominant cable types used for wired local area networks (LAN). Category 5e cables also are typically used for telephone interconnection within a building. These cables are commonly installed behind walls and in ceiling cavities, and are connected to wall outlets that have phone or Ethernet ports.

"The CCCA has taken the position that this serious problem will not go away until quality assurance procedures include testing of samples of finished cable procured directly from the marketplace. Our association is cooperating with the major independent telecommunications industry testing agencies to establish a stronger approach to assure compliance to safety standards," Peri added. "We are very encouraged that a major independent testing agency has informed our association that it plans to put in place new quality assurance measures which include testing of finished product procured directly from the marketplace."

[Note: Founded in 2007, the IRC Fire Sprinkler Coalition has grown to include more than 100 international, national and regional public safety organizations, including associations representing 45 states, all of whom support the mission of promoting residential fire sprinkler systems in new home construction, www.IRCFireSprinkler.org. CCCA, a non-profit corporation formed in 2007, has a mission to serve as the major resource for well researched, fact-based information on the technologies and products of structured cabling media to support current and future needs of the networking, IT and communications industries, fperi@cccassoc.org.]

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Which plastic water bottles don't leach chemicals?

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:29:34 -0600

Always choose your water bottles very carefully in order to prevent chemicals in the plastic from leaching into your water and your body.

Plastic water bottles are very convenient for carting water around when we are on the go, as they don't break if we drop them. However, it is worth paying attention to the type of plastic your water bottle is made of, to ensure that the chemicals in the plastic do not leach into the water. If you taste plastic, you are drinking it, so get yourself another bottle.

To be certain that you are choosing a bottle that does not leach, check the recycling symbol on your bottle. If it is a #2 HDPE (high density polyethylene), or a #4 LDPE (low density polyethylene), or a #5 PP (polypropylene), your bottle is fine. The type of plastic bottle in which water is usually sold is usually a #1, and is only recommended for one time use. Do not refill it. Better to use a reusable water bottle, and fill it with your own filtered water from home and keep these single-use bottles out of the landfill.

Unfortunately, those fabulous colourful hard plastic lexan bottles made with polycarbonate plastics and identified by the #7 recycling symbol, may leach BPA. Bisphenol A is a xenoestrogen, a known endocrine disruptor, meaning it disturbs the hormonal messaging in our bodies. Synthetic xenoestrogens are linked to breast cancer and uterine cancer in women, decreased testosterone levels in men, and are particularly devastating to babies and young children. BPA has even been linked to insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes. For more of the science on the effects of BPA on our endocrine system etc. see these studies: Environmental Health Perspectives Journal. Nalgene, the company that manufactures the lexan water bottles also makes #2 HDPE bottles in the same sizes and shapes, so we have a viable alternative. Order one at Nalgene.

Unfortunately, most plastic baby bottles and drinking cups are made with plastics containing Bisphenol A. In 2006 Europe banned all products made for children under age 3 containing BPA, and as of Dec. 2006 the city of San Franscisco followed suit. In March 2007 a billion-dollar class action suit was commenced against Gerber, Playtex, Evenflo, Avent, and Dr. Brown's in Los Angeles superior court for harm done to babies caused by drinking out of baby bottles and sippy cups containing BPA. So, to be certain that your baby is not exposed, use glass bottles.

Check the recycling numbers on all your plastic food containers as well, and gradually move to storing all food in glass or ceramic.

Store water in glass or brass if possible, and out of direct sunlight.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

"Solar panels in New Mexico pay for themselves in 7 years"

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:55:42 -0600

In New Mexico, solar panels on homes can take as little as seven years to pay for themselves in energy savings.

That's faster than Texas, were even in the best economic case, solar panels take at least a decade to pay for themselves. New Mexico's utility, PNM, offers several subsidies to bring down the cost of the installations for homeowners.

That pleases renewable energy advocates, who see solar panels as a way to cut pollution, long-term electricity costs, and the burden on power lines. Solar skeptics might say such a plan socializes the cost of gadgets for the wealthy.

PNM is grappling with this debate as the company attempts to limit the annual amount it subsidizes. I heard both sides of the argument on Monday at the company's San Juan Generating Station. I'm traveling in New Mexico this week on a trip organized by the Institutes for Journalism and Natural Resources.

PNM senior vice president of utility operations, Jim Ferland, said he must balance the push for renewable energy with the responsibility to keep costs as low as possible for customers.

New Mexico remains regulated, meaning the government tells PNM how much it may charge customers and how much profit it may make. That means, if regulators want more solar, customers pay for it.

So, PNM offers two incentives. First, it offers so-called net metering. That means, when a solar customer generates more power than he can use, PNM buys that power back at retail rates, rather than wholesale rates. Second, under state law, renewable generators like solar panels get renewable energy credits. PNM buys those credits from solar customers at a price that's about ten times higher than the market rate.

Ferland said these offers, along with state and federal subsidies, nearly make installing solar panels economic.

In Texas, our regulated power line utility, Oncor, offers some subsidies that have made solar panels more affordable. But the Oncor deal isn't as sweet at he PNM offer.

Still, Oncor promised not to add the cost of those subsidies to customer rates. North Texans might not install as many solar panels as New Mexicans, but ratepayers don't have to pay for it, either.

Elizabeth Souder/Reporter

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:20:44 -0600

U.S. EPA/Office of Air and Radiation
Office of Radiation and Indoor Air (6609J)
Cosponsored with the Consumer Product Safety Commission

All of us face a variety of risks to our health as we go about our day-to-day lives. Driving in cars, flying in planes, engaging in recreational activities, and being exposed to environmental pollutants all pose varying degrees of risk. Some risks are simply unavoidable. Some we choose to accept because to do otherwise would restrict our ability to lead our lives the way we want. And some are risks we might decide to avoid if we had the opportunity to make informed choices. Indoor air pollution is one risk that you can do something about.

Read all about it:

http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/insidest.html#Intro1

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Flipping Properties Require Margin and Fixed Expenses

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:45:53 -0600

Ah, yes. The flipping of houses. What better way can a common man build his millions? Well, not many. It really can be a quick way to create wealth as long as the flipper doesn't let the flippee house take over his life and bank account.

The number one equation to take into account on this project is the margin. What is your cost to get into the house and the average sales price of a house in the selected neighborhood on a remodeled home? Obviously, you want this margin to be as high as possible. The challenge in today's market, when looking at it nationally, is that many of the diamonds in the rough are located in areas where prices are still declining, so the investor must be sure to purchase the house, gut out the old, insert the new, and get out of the house before the declining price catches up with him and his profit.

Successful flipping is all about your margin. I would love to give you a set equation with fixed expenses, but every house is different. One house may need a kitchen, another, the kitchen and two baths. Here's a pretty cool calculator online that can help determine your cost at www.RemodelingMySpace.com. With the flipping I've seen done in our market, it seems to be pretty accurate on its estimation of replacement costs.

Understanding that all homes are different, the sample below works for our hypothetical house only. Not for every potential flipper on the market. So here's your calculation.

Let's say the asking price is $199,000 for the house in its current condition. You see that it needs a new kitchen, 2 new baths, a new furnace, carpeting, painting inside and out and finally, some landscaping.

After your bids from your work crew come in, your fix up expenses come up to $47,000. Add the $47,000 to the $199,000 for your net expense: $246,000. Now you have the Realtor of choice calculate the price homes are selling for in the community that are remodeled or in excellent condition (because by the time you get done, yours should be in excellent condition). Let's say it's $285,000. Wow, it looks like you just picked up a cool $39,000. Well, not exactly.

First, you have to determine how long it will take to sell the house and calculate your carrying costs (monthly payment, construction loans, etc.) If you're in the same situation as most foreclosure markets, you need to figure about 4 - 6 months carrying costs of preparation and marketing time. If your costs is about $1200 per month (for the mortgage plus utilities), you're now out $4800 (and your take has dropped to $34,200).

And don't forget your 7 percent selling costs for commission and closing expenses, which is roughly $19,950. So now your margin of profit is about $14,000 give or take a $1,000.

As you can see, this is how a lot of people get into trouble thinking that if they pick up a house for $85,000 under market price they'll be rolling in the dough quickly. Most experienced investors are looking for a margin of 50 percent of the value or $100,000 on a higher priced home.

The challenge of a profit margin of $14,000 is that it can be quickly removed in a declining market or the negotiation process in a buyers market.

Written by M. Anthony Carr
November 9, 2009

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Who adds more value, pimps or Realtors?

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 06:38:13 -0600

Some of you may have guessed what kind of twisted economist would ask that question. It's Steven Levitt (with Stephen Dubner), in the sequel to Freakonomics -- SuperFreakonomics. The subtitle is: "Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes, and why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance."

Hope there's a reference to Rick James. This is from the publisher's press release:

How does that question make you feel?

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

Frequently Asked Questions About Mold

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:14:28 -0600

By
Dr. Nathan Yost, MD.
Building Sciences Corporation

What causes mold to develop?

Mold requires nutrients, water, oxygen and favorable temperatures to grow. Nutrients for mold are present in dead organic material such as wood, paper or fabrics; mold can also derive nutrients from some synthetic products such as paints and adhesives. Mold requires moisture, although some mold species can obtain that moisture from moist air when the relative humidity is above 70 per cent. Many molds thrive at normal indoor temperatures; few if any molds are able to grow below 40 F or above 100 F. Outside this range molds may remain dormant or inactive; they may begin to grow again when the temperature is more favorable. Temperatures well above 100 F will kill mold and mold spores, but the exact temperature required to kill specific species is not well established.

Read about it: http://www.realtor.org/realtororg.nsf/pages/moldfaq

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity

NEW JERSEY ADMINISTRATIVE CODE

Frank Festa NJ Estates Real Estate Group (Weichert Realtors) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:54:13 -0600

RESIDENTIAL SITE IMPROVEMENT STANDARDS

Summary of 2009 RSIS Changes (pdf 32k)

The following is a listing of amendments to the Residential Site Improvement Standards,

N.J.A.C. 5:21. The Notice of Adoption of these amendments appeared in the New Jersey

underlined. Deletions are indicated in brackets.) The full text of the Residential Site

Improvement Standards may be found on the Department's website at

http://www.state.nj.us/dca/codes/nj-rsis/index.shtml.

All real estate agents should know how to use this information.

NJ Estates Real Estate Group
Weichert Realtors
908-561-5492
55 Stirling Road, Watchung, N.J. 07069

Equal Housing Opportunity