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 -

Join me On Facebook

It's Hometown Service… With International Connections!

Your New Jersey Hometown Realtor
TEXT- PATTIE TO 87778

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!

Preparing for Winter

As winter approaches, preparations should be considered both inside and outside your home to protect your investment, maintain your safety, and provide comfort throughout the colder winter months.

Indoor Preparations

The most obvious items to address as the winter months approach center largely around ensuring that your home remains warm. Regardless of your heat source there are preventative measures that should be taken to ensure that you remain warm and safe inside your home. Some of the most important areas to assess include:

• Furnaces – regular annual furnace inspections will help keep your furnace in good repair. Cleaning or replacing furnace filters monthly during the operating months will also keep your furnace operating efficiently.
• Oil Heaters – like furnaces, oil heaters require annual inspections and maintenance. Annual inspections should include: inspecting the chimney, cleaning the pipes to remove soot build up, replacing the air filter, checking oil pressure and cleaning the oil filter bowl. Oil supplies will need to be replenished.
• Fireplaces – periodic cleanings should be performed by a chimney sweep to remove soot and creosote buildup to prevent chimney fires. It is also a good time to ensure that woodpiles are sufficiently stocked for the winter months with well-seasoned wood. Woodpiles should be located in a dry location and in an area away from structures to prevent granting wood-eating insects, such as termites, easy access to your home.
• Inspect windows and door for leaks – replacing cracked windows, or sealing air leaks around doors and windows will not only make the winter months more comfortable, but will also lower the costs of heating your home. One method of sealing leaks around windows is by using a removable caulking product which allows for easy removal and restoration of functionality for windows with the return of warmer weather in the spring.
• Evaluate smoke detectors and related safety equipment – the ending of daylight savings time is an ideal time to replace batteries in smoke detectors and any other battery-powered safety or emergency equipment. It is also a good time to evaluate existing smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers in terms of lifespan and whether they provide an adequate level of coverage. Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are generally considered to have a lifespan of 10 years, whereas carbon monoxide detectors have a lifespan generally ranging from 2 to 5 years. Beware that batteries in the carbon monoxide detectors may still function after the actual carbon monoxide sensor has ceased being operational.

Outdoor Preparations

Outdoor preparations should include a walk around your property with an eye for cracks in foundations, the mortar in brick structures, and caulking or weather stripping that has failed. Other things to look for include: evidence of uninvited guests in the form of rodents or birds living or nesting in unsafe or unwanted locations, exposed wood that may need some type of protective treatment applied, and items that are too close to heat sources that could become fire hazards. In addition to this general evaluation, here is a list of specific items to consider:

• Hoses/hose bibs – in regions where temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to disconnect and drain your garden hoses, and either wrap hose bibs or cover them with insulating covers to prevent freezing pipes. A quick inspection for other exposed pipes that may need insulating will prevent the headache of dealing with broken pipes later.
• Sprinkler systems – in colder climates, sprinkler systems will need to be drained to prevent water from freezing and causing cracked or broken pipes. You may be able to drain the water yourself, or you may hire a professional to winterize it by blowing the water out of your system with an air compressor.
• Roof – inspect your roof for any loose, missing, worn or damaged shingles, tiles or other roofing material and have any needed repairs made to prevent unwanted water damage.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts – after leaves and other tree debris has fallen and collected in your gutters, it will be important to clean the gutters and downspouts to prevent water from backing up and causing water damage or overflowing during winter storms.
• Clean landscaping tools – when storing your landscaping tools for winter, take the opportunity to clean them well, apply a light coat of lubricant on tools such as pruning shears to keep them operational and to extend their lifespan, and replace tools that are in poor condition so you’ll be prepared next spring when your landscaping begins to come to life once again.
• Prepare winter equipment – now is the time to test winter equipment that you may need in the coming months and make any necessary repairs ahead of time. Knowing that the snow blower or back-up generator will work and are in good repair and that you are prepared for inclement weather will provide peace of mind. It is also a good time to place this equipment along with shovels and salt in an accessible location so it is readily available when it is needed.
• Winter fertilizer – an application of winter fertilizer to lawns will promote stronger roots and help produce a healthier lawn in the spring.
• Plants – take a look at your landscaping and determine if there are plants that may be sensitive to cooler weather and require special preparation. While some plants may need to be trimmed, others may require additional composting materials around their roots to protect them during freezing temperatures, and others will need to be moved to a sheltered area or indoors. This is also a good time to lift bulbs that won’t survive the colder temperatures such as dahlias and to consider planting spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils.

Emergency Planning

Lastly, don’t forget to review or establish an emergency plan and supply kit.

Emergency plans should include:

• Designated out-of-area contact as a centralized point person – often in emergencies it is easier to reach an out-of-area contact than a local one to relay information about impacted family members
• Back-up meeting place
• Back-up child care and pet care arrangements
• Accommodations for any special needs (non-ambulatory or disabled family members, family members using oxygen tanks, etc.)

Emergency supply kits should be kept in an easily accessible location and contain:

• Water
• Non-perishable food
• Pet food
• Blankets
• First Aid kit
• Candles and matches/lighter
• Battery-operated radio
• Flashlights
• Important phone numbers – relatives, utilities
• Fuel for any back-up heat sources
• Supplies for existing medical conditions
• For homes with infants, an adequate supply of diapers and infant related items

                         Patricia " PATTIE" Romano

                                Direct 609-312-9043
 


It's Hometown Service… With International Connections!

 

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.

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

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 -

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.

One of the most common and costly mistakes made by sellers is setting an unrealistically high asking price. Every seller wants to receive the highest closing price possible for their house, but losing sight of fair market value can have serious repercussions.

In some cases a lack of objectivity results in overpricing the home, other sellers may subscribe to the theory that pricing high initially leaves room to negotiate lower later. Overpricing from the outset could actually force you to end up settling for a lower price than you would have received by setting a realistic asking price based on market research.

Common Results of Overpricing

Fewer "Eyes" on Your Listing - Mispricing your home can prevent it from ever being seen by a certain percentage of potential buyers who might otherwise be interested in your home. Savvy buyers today research the local market even before acquiring an agent. Buyers will search available listings both online and offline in real estate publications, and in most cases they will set a price range to limit the listings they review. If your home is outside of their range even by a few thousand dollars, it may not be on the buyer's radar.

Most buyers will then hire a specialized buyer's agent, and together they will develop a strategy to evaluate homes that match the buyer's needs within their acceptable price range. Occasionally an agent will provide information on a home above the buyer's maximum price point, but rarely will they stray too far above that boundary.

Lack of Showings - Agents who work with homebuyers will know local market conditions and the listing prices of comparable homes. If they feel your home is overpriced, they will be reluctant to show your home to their clients for fear of wasting their time.

Helping Competing Listings - It may not be your first thought, but overpricing for your home for the market can actually help the competition. Your home's higher asking price will make other nearby homes of equivalent size and quality look like steals in comparison. Astute selling agents for other properties will use the price gap between your home and their own as a further selling point of their listings.

Stagnation and Stigmatization - If your home is priced higher than what buyers in your market are willing to pay, it runs the risk of sitting on the market for a longer period. The longer your home sits on the market, the more likely it will become stigmatized as "overpriced" in the real estate community. Once that happens, removing the stigma and restoring interest in your home can be a difficult task. Even dropping the price later will not have the same level of impact as the initial, negative, impression of your listing.

Tough Negotiations - A high listing price can be a warning flag that buyers use for leverage during the negotiation process. If the asking price seems high without home improvements or features to warrant the difference, buyers may assume that you are either A) not well informed about the market, B) not a highly motivated seller, C) have a need for money (perhaps forced by a move to a higher-priced area), or D) are simply creating some bargaining room. If the buyer believes any of these, they are likely to fish to determine how low of a price you will accept.

On the other hand, if your home has languished on the market as a result of a high price, buyers may believe you are becoming desperate. Interested buyers will make lower offers as a result.

Appraisal Problems - Should you be fortunate enough to find a motivated buyer willing to pay your overestimated asking price, you still run the risk of having the deal fall apart prior to closing. Most buyers will use some kind of financing to pay for their home purchase, and every lender requires an appraisal of your home's value.

The appraiser will review your home in person to assess its value based on similar homes that have sold (usually within the last six months). If the appraised value is below the agreed selling price, the lender will only approve a loan for the lower amount. You may be forced to reduce the selling price or risk having the deal collapse, and your home return to the open market.

Overpricing and Today's Market

Today the tendency to overprice relative to the current market can be even more tempting. Home prices have dropped since the high peaks in the summer of 2006, and as a result many are in denial about the current market value of their home. Homeowners who bought within the past five or six years in particularly may be overly influenced by the purchase price they paid during the real estate boom.

This comes at time when overpricing couldn't be a worse strategy. There is a smaller pool of highly motivated buyers, and today's buyers tend to be well educated about the market. Without the assumption of price appreciation, few buyers are willing to gamble and overpay for a home. In addition, credit tightening has reduced both the number of buyers who can qualify for a mortgage as well as the size of the mortgages available.

Creating a Pricing Plan

When pricing your home, the best strategy is to remain objective and compare your home closely to similar properties on the market. Take the opportunity to visit open houses and pay attention to recent sales in your area. Are you more focused on selling quickly, or on receiving the highest possible selling price? Is the price you have in mind reasonable when compared with what other homes are asking for and selling for?

Priced Too High: Corrections

If your home has been sitting on the market with few offers or showings to its name, consider whether or not it is priced correctly. Review recent sales of comparable listings, especially those that have sold since your home went on the market. Another method is to ask agents who have shown your property for feedback they received from their clients. Have buyers who looked at your home in person purchased other homes in the area instead?

Acting quickly to adjust the asking price is the best way to keep as much of your marketing momentum as possible. Depending on how long your listing has been on the market, additional marketing may be needed to help repair some of the "damage" done to the reputation of your home's listing at the higher price. In some cases, you may be forced to slightly under price your listing to create additional interest.

Water-Saving Landscaping Tips

As signs of sunshine start to peek through the fog of winter, we grow nearer to the season marked by the hum of lawnmowers and the smell of freshly churned soil. Spring, and the joys (or chores) of landscaping, are nearly upon us.

Depending on your point of view, gardening and yard work can either be a necessary evil or a cherished escape into the fresh air. But whether you're a minimalist landscaper or have the greenest of thumbs, the added expense of landscaping water bills can be an unpleasant reality every spring and summer. The tips below are just a few ways you can responsibly make it rain without draining your wallet dry.

Harvest the Downpours -

Setting up your own rain barrel is an easy way to save a significant amount of money each season. For every inch of rain that falls on 750 sq ft of roof, you can collect 450 gallons of water. That means many areas can gather upwards of a thousand gallons of water every year. That's water you can use to hydrate your houseplants, flowers, vegetable garden or lawn. In addition to saving you money on water bills, using natural water is environmentally sustainable (cities spend a lot of money and energy treating and pumping water into homes). Plants will also grow better with rainwater compared to chlorinated and fluoridated tap water.

Rain barrels can be fairly easily constructed out of old garbage cans, a few washers, a spigot, caulking, and a hose clamp. By connecting one of your home's downspouts to the barrel, you will harness some of the rain collecting power of your roof. If Do-It-Yourself is not your cup of tea, premade rain barrels can be purchased at most home improvement stores, usually ranging from $100-$200. When setting up your rain barrel, make sure to place it on a platform (bricks, etc.) roughly a foot or so off of the ground to make it easier to fill up watering cans and also to give more pressure if you decide to hook it up to a hose.

Mulch Ado -

Adding a layer of mulch to landscaped areas doesn't just serve as an aesthetic touch; it's also one of the most effective and environmentally-friendly defenses against weeds that threaten to steal moisture from your plants. Mulch layers are air and water permeable, making them easy to plant into. Organic mulches such as hay, grass clippings, leaves and shredded bark will also improve the soil quality as they decay over time. Rubber, plastic or rock/gravel mulch layers can also be used with positive results.

Clamp Down -

Nothing wastes water quite as much as a needlessly running hose. Attach spray nozzles to all garden hoses to avoid leaving the water running. Spray nozzles also provide you with a little extra "oomph" of water pressure for watering hard to reach plants.

Hold the Sprinklers -

Using sprinklers can be a hassle-free way to water your lawn and plants, but if left on too long they can cost you a bundle while over-saturating your landscaping. Some sprinklers nowadays are equipped with built-in timing mechanisms and routines. As an alternative, you can install a simple faucet-mounted timer that remembers to shut off the water supply so that you don't have to.

Pay Attention to the Weather -

Overwatering your plants and lawn costs you money, isn't good for the plants and results in a great deal of water runoff. Keep in tune with just how much rainfall (roughly speaking) your yard is soaking in. This can be accomplished either by monitoring local weather sites or by setting up a simple rain gauge in your yard. Typically, plants need about an inch of water per week during the growing season. If you have sprinklers set on an automatic timer, make sure to adjust it as needed during periods of seasonal rainfall.

Let it All Soak In -

Unlike traditional sprinklers, soaker hoses aren't susceptible to water loss through evaporation. Soaker hoses slowly drip water into the soil. When covered over with mulch, they have proven to be an extremely efficient watering method.

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
Join me On Facebook

Re-Painting? Know the Essentials

Painting interior walls is relatively easy and cheap way to transform the rooms of your home while protecting overall resale value. Aside from adding personality and drama, re-painting protects the surface from moisture and fading. Here are a few things to know before you start planning your DIY masterpiece.

Sheen/Luster - A paint's "sheen" classifies its degree of shine. Flat paint is the dullest of the sheens and is best uses in low activity areas such as hallways and dining rooms, or on ceilings. Eggshell (sometimes "low-luster") has more shine that flat and is easier to wash. Eggshell finishes are appropriate for bedrooms and living rooms. Semigloss and glossy sheens reflect light for a brighter look. Both are durable and easy to wash, although glossy sheens will highlight any imperfections on a wall or surface. Semigloss sheens finishes are good choices for bathrooms and kitchens, while glossy finishes are often reserved for trim, railings, cabinetry and doors.

Quality - While it may be tempting to save money by buying cheaper paint, you will likely end up paying for it in the long run. High quality paint has higher pigment levels and a higher percentage of titanium dioxide, which increases coverage ability and improves durability. Their heavier bodies will go on smoother with less splattering and fewer applications, and will resist fading over time.

Color - Darker hues are known to add interest or warmth to a room, while lighter colors can open up a room and make it seem more spacious. Painting one wall with a rich color can add new drama to the space. In terms of durability, colors such as white, brown tend to fade less than brighter greens, yellows and blues.

Testing - Paint chips and samples can help you whittle down color options, but the best test of a paint color is to see the hue on the intended surface during different lighting conditions. Purchase quart or sample sizes of your top paint choices to get the best feel for the paint's affect on its surroundings.

Amount - 1 gallon of paint will typically cover 350 square feet of surface. Multiply the width of your walls by the height of the room to determine the total square footage you need to cover. Some manufacturers provide coverage calculators that will help you determine how many gallons of paint you will need.

Preparation - Paint adheres best to clean, uniform walls. Scrape clear any flaking paint and spackle in holes and cracks. Wash walls with a trisodium phosphate solution. Use plenty of painter's tape on baseboards, moldings and windowpanes. Applying a primer will conceal stains and ensure uniform color and absorption.

Equipment - Latex paints are best used with nylon brushes (or rollers), while natural brushes 9or rollers) work best for oil-based paint. 3-4 inch wall brushes work well on large, flat surfaces. Angled sash brushes are ideal for detailed areas, and trim brushes are perfect for doors and window frames. Paint rollers work well on rough or textured surfaces. The rougher the surface, the longer the roller nap should be.

Prepping For a Last-Minute Showing

It's nearly impossible to keep your home in a "show-ready" state day in and day out. In many cases you may find that your home will be shown to a prospective buyer with very little advance notice.

Even if you're keeping things as clutter-free as possible, a little preparation for the actual showing is probably in order. Here are some short-term ways to get your home looking and feeling its best.

Step 1: Cleaning Frenzy

• Scrub tile in the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Thoroughly clean hardwood floors.
• Vacuum carpets. If time permits, rent a steam cleaner to shampoo carpets, particularly in high traffic areas.
• Dust all wood furniture, TV screens and computer monitors.
• Clear counters of all clutter. If time permits, move unnecessary appliances and decorating touches into storage areas.
• Clear the kitchen sink and counters of all dirty dishes.
• Pick up all dirty laundry. Avoid over-filling any open air hampers - laundry is better kept out of sight inside your washer or dryer.
• Remove stains from bathtubs, toilets and sinks.

Step 2: Critical Eye Test

• After doing the first round of cleaning, take a walk through the house with the perspective of a buyer. Look for clutter, excess furniture or highly personal touches that might turn off prospective buyers.
• Try taking pictures of main rooms with a digital camera for an "instant review".

Step 3: Curb Appeal Checkup

• Sweep the entryway, porch and walkways.
• Mow and water the lawn.
• Store any toys or garden equipment.
• Clean up pet droppings.
• Clean gutters and downspouts.
• Add potted plants to the porch or deck.

Step 4: Closing Touches

• Turn on all lights.
• Open drapes and blinds.
• Open windows to let in fresh air.
• Burn scented candles or open jars of lightly scented potpourri. If you don't have either on hand, you can always bake cookies (the oldest trick in the book) or simmer a few drops of vanilla extract on the stove.
• Turn off all TV's, stereos and computers.
• If possible, relocate pets to a friend or neighbor's home during the showing.
• Clean the litter box thoroughly to rid your home of smells. If pets can be temporarily relocated, remove the litter box entirely.
• Hang fresh towels in every bathroom.
• Put fresh liquid soap or bar soap in each bathroom.
• Remove rugs to showcase hardwood floors.
• Put out fresh flowers and fill candy dishes.

want more ideas on how to get your home SOLD- 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 - till midnight

When beginning your home search, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the onslaught of both real estate terminology and architectural descriptions. For the uninitiated, phrases like "French Colonial" or "post-war bungalow" seem like another layer of jargon designed to confuse the average buyer. The overview below will help you familiarize yourself with the basic characteristics of some of the most common residential architectural styles in the U.S.

Victorian Style

Victorian architecture refers to several styles developed during the reign of Queen Victoria. The Victorian styles evolved largely from the Victorian idea that architecture (along with fashion, furnishings, among other things) should be beautiful rather than practical. The last true Victorians were constructed in the early 1900s, but contemporary builders often borrow Victorian ideas, designing eclectic "neo-Victorians." These homes combine modern materials with 19th century details, such as curved towers and spindled porches.
Common Elements:

• Any and all exterior finishes, from brick to shingles to terra cotta
• Different exterior wall textures or materials on the same facade
• Asymetrical facade with extensive wood or brick patterning or detailing
• Extensive ornamental and decorative accents, usually in one of the following themes: delicate posts and spindles, raised classical columns, fancy half-timbering, or intricately patterned stone or brick
• Front entryway and significant part (or all) of front facade covered by a porch

Bungalow

The name "bungalow" originates from India, where it indicated a small, thatched home. In the United States what we call bungalows became popular during the 1880's in California, in part as a reaction to the elaborate nature of Victorian style. The style grew in popularity throughout the early 20th century.
Common Elements:

• One or one-and-a-half stories
• Wood, brick or stone exterior finishes
• Rectangular building with low profile
• Simple facade with few decorative details
• Projecting, covered front porch with entryway set off to one side
• Interior Characteristics: Kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms laid around central living room

Craftsman

A descendent of the bungalow style, the craftsman gained popularity at the turn of the 20th century. Often called the "California bungalow", these homes feature overhanging eaves, a low-slung gabled roof, and wide front porches supported by columns.
Common Elements:

• Exterior or natural materials, like wood or stone
• Asymetrical facade
• Large porch with square pillars or columns holding up the corners
• Ornamental braces
• Stone chimney
• One story
• Relatively low-pitched (flat) roof
• Interior Characteristics: Built-in china cabinets, nooks, desks, etc.
• Exposed beams. The beams on the porch and inside the house are often exposed.
• Open floor plan. The Arts and Crafts Movement rejected the small, boxy rooms like those in Victorian houses.

Ranch Style

The ranch style home emerged in the 1930s and grew in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, coinciding with the growing role of the automobile in American lifestyle. The style draws on elements of Spanish Colonial and Prairie and Craftsman homes, and is characterized by its one-story, pitched-roof construction, built-in garage, wood or brick exterior walls, sliding and picture windows, and sliding doors leading to patios.
Common Elements:

• Exterior finished in stucco, wood, brick or some combination thereof
• Low-pitched roof with medium to wide overhanging eaves
• Side or rear glass doors which slide open to a porch or patio area
• Attached garage

Cape Cod

Many of the first homes built in the United States were Cape Cod-style homes constructed in the New England colonies. Many of the Cape Cod homes on the market today were built after World War II, when thousands of returning soldiers and their young families needed inexpensive housing. A 20th-century Cape Cod is square or rectangular with one or one-and-a-half stories and steeply pitched, gabled roofs. It may have dormers and shutters. The siding is usually clapboard or brick.
Common Elements:

• Large, central chimney. The large, central chimney is located directly behind the front door, with the rooms clustered around it in a rectangular shape.
• Steep roof. Cape Cods have steep roofs to quickly shed rain and snow, and a shallow roof overhang.
• Windows and dormers. Two windows on each side of the door, and often a dormer on each side of the chimney to open up the attic.
• Captain's stairway. "The second floor, often kept for boarders or 'seafaring' men, was accessed by a narrow stair, or 'captain's stairway,' which has incredibly steep risers and shallow treads to minimize the use of the first-floor space," explains David Karam, an architect and builder from Brewster, Mass.
• Shingle siding. Weathered gray shingles are one of the most recognizable elements of a classic Cape Cod, but newer homes are built of brick, stucco and stone.

Colonial

As the nations of Europe settled the new world, they brought their unique architectural styles to the Americas, building their new homes in styles that reminded them of, well, home. "Colonial architecture" encompasses a number of individual styles including Georgian Colonial, Spanish Colonial, French Colonial, Dutch Colonial, and Federal - although Georgian is often the style referred to in the colloquial sense of "colonial". Georgian homes find their roots in both Italian Renaissance and the classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome. These homes are often marked by a centrally located front door, evenly spaced double-hung windows and simple side-gabled roof. Traditional Colonial homes have paired chimneys, decorative doorways and plain, symmetrical fronts along with a generally rectangular and formal style.
Common Elements:

• Brick or wood exterior
• Small front porch with white rectangular columns topped by a triangular gable or pediment leading up to the front door
• Rectangular building
• Symmetrical facade -- same number of windows on either side of the front door, etc.
• Two or more stories
• Relatively steep roof pitch
• Interior Characteristics: Living rooms on first floor and bedrooms on higher floors

Spanish/Mediterranean

Spanish Colonial homes date back to the original Spanish colonies and missions throughout the American Southwest, and are characterized by stucco walls, tile roofs and enclosed courtyards. Today the term Spanish Colonial Revival is used to describe homes built in the early 20th century that incorporate various elements of Mediterranean architecture. The stucco siding and small windows of the Spanish Colonial style make the homes very energy efficient.
Common Elements:

• Stucco exterior finish (usually in earthy, cream, or pinkish tones)
• Flat, red-tiled roof
• Small, circular accent windows
• Wide, square pillars on front facade
• Arches over doors, large windows and porch
• Square or polygonal towers
• Interior Characteristics: Tile floors, arches, wrought iron light fixtures

Tudor

Built mostly in the first half of the 20th century, Tudor homes can be found in established communities in practically every region of the country. Tudors have half-timbering on bay windows and upper floors, and facades dominated by steep cross gables. While this highly recognizable style was often the choice of the wealthy for grand mansions, modest interpretations of the style are prevalent as well.
Common Elements:

• Steeply pitched roof, sometimes with mock thatch
• Large rectangular chimney with an ornate, cylindrical pipe-or "chimney pot"-on top
• Patterned brick or stone exterior, or plaster with half-timbers
• Decorative exposed wood framing known as "half-timbered" construction
• Asymmetrical façade
• Entryways are often arched and outlined with decorative brick or stonework.
• Windows placed in groups of two, three or four.
• Tall or narrow windows, multi-paned, with panes sometimes arranged in a diamond pattern.
• Front door of vertical wood planks

Modern

Modern architecture refers to designs influenced and inspired by the modernism movement in art and literature. Modern architecture was a rebellion against classical architectural tradition, and as a broad movement that spanned many decades, it incorporated elements of art deco, arts and crafts, and ranch home design.
Common Elements:

• Open living spaces - Modernist homes usually feature open floor plans that combine spaces for dining, relaxing and entertaining.
• Clean, geometric lines - modernist homes emphasize spare geometric forms.
• Technologically advanced materials - Rather than traditional wood and plaster, modernism advanced the use of new materials like iron, concrete, steel and glass. If you would like additional information on Builders in my local area,
• Give me a call