Evan's Blog

Grey Water Workshop

2008-06-30T14:54:18Z

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July 22nd, 2008

Grey Water Workshop / 7pm

The Greywater Guerrillas are a collaborative group of educators, designers, builders, and artists who educate and empower people to build sustainable water culture and infrastructure. Watch a video of one of their installations here.

About Greywater:
Greywater is water that flows down sink, shower, and washing machine drains, but not the toilet. Greywater may contain traces of dirt, food, grease, hair, and household cleaning products. While greywater may look dirty, it is a safe and even beneficial source of irrigation water. If released into rivers, lakes, or estuaries, the nutrients in greywater (mainly phosphate from detergent) become pollutants, but to garden plants, they are valuable fertilizer. Aside from the obvious benefits of saving water (and money on your water bill), reusing your greywater keeps it out of the sewer or septic system, thereby reducing the chance that it will pollute local water bodies Reusing greywater for irrigation reconnects urban residents and our backyard gardens to the natural water cycle.

Sliding scale entrance fee of $10-30 goes towards the Greywater Guerrillas and Environmental Center. You won't be turned away from this workshop if you are not willing to donate money. Whatever you can give is encouraged.

Environmental Nature Center
1601 16th Street
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949-645-8489
www.encenter.org

Mother's Market has also donated snacks for the presentation in case you're hungry or unable to get dinner before hand.

VIEW EVENT ON MEETUP
DOWNLOAD FLIER

Written by, Evan T. Little

Realtor®, EcoBroker®
Volkl Investments Inc.
949.939.9687 phone
evan@volklinvestmentsinc.com

My other blogs:
Going "Green" in Orange County
Orange County, CA Community
Real Estate in Orange County, CA

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SolarCity Solar Seminars in Orange County this June

2008-06-11T12:53:09Z

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Event is scheduled from 7-8:30pm

Come and learn about how solar electric systems work and what it takes to get one.

SolarCity is one of the leading solar installers and has a strong presence here in Orange County. They're also the first solar installation company, that I know of, to partner with an electric vehicle company, Tesla Motors.
www.solarcity.com

Plug in America will also be present during the event.
Plug In America is a coalition of RAV4-EV drivers, former lessees of Honda EV+, GM EV1, and Ford Th!nk City electric cars, and advocates of clean air and energy independence. Prior to 2008, we functioned as a loose network of individuals organized around websites of various names (like dontcrush.com and saveEV1.com) and then coalesced as a chapter of the Electric Auto Association. On January 2, 2008 Plug In America became a separate California Non-Profit Corporation. We have applied to the IRS for tax deductible status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, which is pending.
www.pluginamerica.org

Solar Seminars from SolarCity Scheduled:

June 11th - Costa Mesa

June 19th - Mission Viejo

June 25th - Irvine

Written by, Evan T. Little

Realtor®, EcoBroker®
Volkl Investments Inc.
949.939.9687 phone
evan@volklinvestmentsinc.com

My other blogs:
Going "Green" in Orange County
Orange County, CA Community
Real Estate in Orange County, CA

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Critical Mass in Costa Mesa, CA

2008-05-16T18:02:41Z

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I just recently heard of Critical Mass, an event that is typically held on the last Friday of every month in cities around the world where bicyclists and other self-propelled commuters take to the streets in mass. The groups seem to have little to no centralized organization and pride themselves on their autonomy. I appreciate the simplistic approach to the idea of getting together in mass to celebrate bicycling. Of course the underlying message of alternative transportation and lifestyle that is conveyed to those who wittiness a Critic Mass group, whether on purpose or not, is a definite step in the right direction.

The Costa Mesa Critical Mass group meets at Rooster Cafe at 6pm on the last Friday of each month.

Click here to add Critical Mass Costa Mesa on Myspace

Rooster Cafe
750 Saint Clair Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

OTHER WEEKLY COSTA MESA RIDES:

Margaritaville Mondays:
Meet at the triangle square elevators at (around) 630, leave whenever, end at taco mesa for amazing mexican food and 50¢ margaritas. this ride is for everyone, but please, keep the drinking to 21+

Wednesday night social:
Meet at the triangle square elevators at (around) 630, leave whenever. this ride takes us down the newport peninsula and across the ferry to balboa island where we stop for ferry beers. after we ride through balboa and through the back bay loop we stop at cafe blanc for some gelato, then it's off to tacos & tacos for.. tacos. after tacos, DETROIT BAR for some good music and $1 beers. if you're thinking, "man, this ride has a lot of stops," that is why it is called the social ride. bring $2 cash for the ferry, more if you want food and stuff.

Sausage Saturdays:
Meet at the triangle square elevators at (around) 1130AM, leave whenever. take pch down to corona del mar, and end up at the rooster cafe for delicious sandwiches and/or the tin lizzy for delicious FREE bbq. yes, i said free.

A few more Youtube clips:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMD-EA5VIRI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1PxiquVPN0

Critical Mass Directory:
http://critical-mass.info

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Community Gardens around Orange County, CA

2008-05-16T17:57:25Z

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Some months ago I accidentally drove bye one of two community gardens in Costa Mesa. I'd seen community gardens on TV shows before, but didn't realize that such a resource existed outside of larger, urban cities like Chicago or New York.

After a little asking around I was directed to speak with Ruth A. Raheb, Recreation Supervisor for the City of Costa Mesa. She's quick to return phone calls and awfully friendly when discussing community gardens. So finally! I got all the answers as to how these community gardens work.

Financial cost to members:
Currently, both Costa Mesa Residents and Non-residents may apply for a gardening parcel. The cost, as of May 2008, is $30 for Costa Mesa Residents and $60 for Non Costa Mesa Residents. There is also a $20 key deposit and Community Garden Bylaws that must be followed.

Rules and regulations:
The City of Costa Mesa provides a water source, gate key, parking area, port-a-potty and trash containers as needed. Everything else must be provided by yourself. Best of all the bylaws is that NO CHEMICALS OR CHEMICAL PRODUCTS are allowed.

There are many other rules that must be followed. Such as all crops grown are for personal consumption or gifts, no illegal plants, etc, etc...

O.C. Community Garden locations I'm aware of:

170 Del Mar Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA
523 Hamilton Street, Costa Mesa, CA
Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano, CA

I've added both Costa Mesa Community Garden locations to my OC GREEN MAP and will search other Orange County Cities as time allows. Please post a comment on this blog or contact me if you're aware of any others.

If you already have a community garden parcel or are thinking of getting one and would be interested in organizing edible garden or native plant workshop(s) to help educate your community, please contact me.

Contact your City and see if one exists, how to join or what it would take to get one started!

Written by, Evan T. Little

Realtor®, EcoBroker®
Volkl Investments Inc.
949.939.9687 phone
evan@volklinvestmentsinc.com

My other blogs:
Going "Green" in Orange County
Orange County, CA Community
Real Estate in Orange County, CA

click here to sign-up for my email newsletter

Costa Mesa, CA Encourages "Green" Building

2008-05-16T17:49:50Z

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CITY OF COSTA MESA
P.O.BOX 1200
CALIFORNIA 92626-1200

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER

PRESS RELEASE

January 9, 2008

“Green” Fee Waivers Currently Available Through June 30, 2008

The City of Costa Mesa is currently offering fee waivers for green installation and express Planning and Building Division Plan checks through June 30, 2008. Under the City’s Build Green Incentive Program, all or a portion of the fees will be waived for green installations of solar panels, skylights, domestic tankless water heaters, grey water systems, and similar conservation technology. A rebate may also be offered for green certification. Build Green plans will also be given priority in processing along with the option of preferred morning or afternoon inspections.

The Build Green Incentive Program encourages the elements of green building, which include site design, energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and material selection. A green certified building has 50% less negative impact on the environment than a standard building.

Authorized on September 4, 2007, the Build Green Incentive Program is part of City Council’s adopted Sustainable Municipal Green Policy, aimed at increasing energy efficiency, conserving natural resources, promoting a healthy work environment and environmental responsibility.

For further information on the Build Green Incentive Program, “Green Building FAQs” brochures are available at www.ci.costa-mesa.ca.us and at the Development Services Department counter, or please contact Building Official Khanh Nguyen at (714) 754-5277.

Link to view press release of Costa Mesa's web-site

Flip and Grow Poor

2008-05-06T08:50:52Z

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Many of you have seen the fun house flipping TV shows where someone gets in way over their head and losses their ass or the master "house flipper" who has made a cool hundred thousand dollars in 3 months. The majority of "house flippers" should be called market riders. Simply because they're riding the real estate market to victory or defeat, not generating their financial future on their own. Either they'll spend too much money in the wrong neighborhood with too low of an appreciation rate for a loss or make a few bucks and dump it into their next investment deal with their fingers crossed. Eventually, when the market turns South, like it has, they'll no longer be able to generate income and most likely be stuck in a financial headache of some sort.

THE RAPE OF REGRESSION:
I cringe and cheer for the homeowner that dumps hundreds of thousands of dollars into his home in the wrong neighborhood. It's a great thing for the neighbors and can help turn a neighborhood around if it's become less desirable. However, more often than not, it's a terrible financial move.
The market value of a residential home is based off the homes in the neighborhood. If you are the most lavish home on your street, chances are that the value of your home is being pulled down by your neighbors. This is called regression in the real estate world and it's not your friend.
Although not so bad for a long term investor who has selected the right beat up, old neighborhood that's beginning to come back around, building a castle in a village is financial suicide for a short term house flipper.

THE COST OF FLIPPING:
The cost of buying, fixing up and selling a home is tremendous. real estate agent commissions, financing costs, escrow, title, notaries, appraisal, home inspections, termite inspections, repair work, cosmetic work, etc, etc...
A professional "house flipper" will calculate the cost of buying, fixing up and selling to help him/her determine whether or not there's any money to be made. It's hard to believe that someone can make money by flipping residential in just a few months, but in the right neighborhood and the right real estate market, anything is possible.

RESIDENTIAL VS COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE:
Residential real estate investments are a good tool for tax shelter and a good way to generate appreciation over the years. The value of a commercial property is determined by the cashflow it generates today. There for, it's a much more lucrative tool to flip short term. Lowering expenses with energy efficient investments, changing the tenant mix to better suit the current community can have a dramatic effect. Sometimes, all that's needed is to simply raise the rent to the current market price.

Written by, Evan T. Little

Realtor®, EcoBroker®
Volkl Investments Inc.
949.939.9687 phone
evan@volklinvestmentsinc.com

My other blogs:
Going "Green" in Orange County
Orange County, CA Community
Real Estate in Orange County, CA

click here to sign-up for my email newsletter

Greywater Systems are NOT Illegal

2008-04-30T15:33:49Z

About two months ago at a "green" building presentation, the president of Living Homes become the 2nd person to tell me that residential greywater systems are illegal in this area. They had tried to do one on a project of their's, but were prevented by the city. A few weeks ago, I heard the same thing from the gentleman who took me on a tour of Orange County Water District's Ground Water Redistribution plant. Not that he should be an expert, but the story seemed to be consistent that greywater systems are illegal.

Up until last Saturday when I met Stephen Bilson of ReWater Systems at Santa Monica's Alt Build Expo. It turns out that Mr. Bilson assisted in writing the California greywater code. This disappointment across his face when he heard of how many people were ignorant to his work in greywater systems is easy to imagine.

The payback on a system like he had displayed was as quick as 3 years in some circumstances. Extremely cost effective and just about any investment in water conservation is a no brainer. People aren't saying that the wars of tomorrow will be fought over water and not oil just for kicks.

So what is a Greywater System?
It's quite simple actually. A greywater system uses your waste water generated from domestic processes such as dish washing, laundry and bathing to water your landscaping. It's financially savvy and conserves water which benefits tax payers, water consumers, reduces our carbon footprint because we use MASSIVE amounts of dirty energy to push Northern water to us and last but not least... the environments where our water is brought from and stored along the way.

It's important to note that you should use natural cleaners and remember that what goes down the sink and shower drain will end up on your landscaping. You shouldn't be using harmful cleaners in your home in the first place!!

Written by, Evan T. Little

Realtor®, EcoBroker®
Volkl Investments Inc.
949.939.9687 phone
evan@volklinvestmentsinc.com

My other blogs:
Going "Green" in Orange County
Orange County, CA Community
Real Estate in Orange County, CA

The Unstimulating Stimulous Package

2008-04-06T23:22:30Z

If you live in Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Tustin than you should be proud of your Congressman, John Campbell, for standing and speaking out against the backwards stimulous package.

Congressman John Campbell was one of thirty-five House Reps that understands printing more money out of thin air and handing it out to homeowners that have already proven they're unable to spend wisely is a small, short term gain and a big, long term loss for US tax payers.

Click the link below to watch him speak on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEdkRV8bMrI

Congressman John Campbell's Web-site: http://www.campbell.house.gov

Water & Landscaping in Orange County, CA

2008-03-26T23:06:57Z

How do we keep Orange County so green in what is, more or less, a desert region and at what cost are we paying for such extravagance?

As our population in Orange County continues to grow, we'll need to use more water for the things we need to have and less water for things we'd like have.

To my knowledge, the amount of fresh water on earth has not changed much in recent history. So with the same amount of water being available to us year after year and more and more people demanding it, those who control water rights and the communities that use their resources most efficiently will reap the rewards. Which is why many argue that the wars of tomorrow will be fought over water rights instead of oil.

Why should Orange County become more water efficient?

The benefits in becoming water efficient as an individual, a city, a county and a state are massive! Besides the destruction to wild habitats we cause by importing water to support our excessive lifestyles, it's COSTING US A LOT MONEY and putting our well being in unnecessary jeopardy! As tax payers and consumers of water, we're subject to higher energy and water rates. The more water and energy needed to push it to us in order to sustain our lifestyle, the more costly infrastructure we need to support our thirst.

I recently attended one of Mesa Consolidated Water District's workshops and was confused as to why they want me to buy less of their product in the first place. They must be getting some sort of rebate from the State of California (Tax payer money) for reducing their costumer's water needs like Southern California Edison does with their electricity consumers, I thought. In fact, it seems that it's more profitable for Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, the water company that sends us water from other regions, to reduce our consumption by sponsoring events like the one I attended than it would be to build more reservoirs to support or gluttony.

Orange County’s groundwater basin supplies about 60% of the water needs for residents and businesses in Anaheim, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Irvine, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Orange, Placentia, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster, and Yorba Linda. So cities South of Irvine rely entirely on imported water! Not to mention the other 40% of water we need for Northern Orange County's current needs.

Why is Landscaping so important?
Our landscaping demands roughly 50% of our water consumption needs. It's an easy change for us to make and will save us money personally and as tax payers. Native and drought resistant landscaping, when done right, looks beautiful. Increased property value and lower utility bills are the result. Who's going to argue with that kind of outcome, right?

The overall design of your landscaping should be well thought out. Using a Landscape Consultant will save you money in utility bills, purchasing plants the first time to prevent you from having to buy them a 2nd time after they die because you don't know what you're doing. Mixing plants with similar needs like water consumption, sun exposure and soil type isn't something that everyone will be able to figure out or have the time for on their own.

Watering systems should be seriously considered. Especially with all of the upcoming changes to many city watering codes. Residents should have a 2nd opinion from a professional in regards to the placement and type of watering systems they need. Many water districts will come out and consult you for FREE.

I prefer California Native landscaping or at least something that is compatible with local wildlife. Using drought resistant plants or Xeroscaping are also beneficial to your wallet and your community.

Growing your own food is another smart thing to do. With the rising cost of oil or the weakening of our dollar, food will continue to rise in price significantly. The majority of pesticides and herbicides are derived from petroleum and of course we need to truck them to the Ralph's Grocery Store down the street, right?

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Cuba began to spiral into a severe economic depression known as the Special Period. Without the Soviet Union's steady flow of oil, Cuba was unable to transport goods from one region to another. People nearly dying of starvation lead to a sustainable agricultural revolution! Residents began growing their own food locally as well as small urban farms and I believe they're better for it. Hopefully our transition from agriculture supported by cheap oil to a more sustainable model won't be as severe.

Using natural, organic fertilizers to grow your own food will keep you healthier as well. So have fun and plant some fruit trees and try your luck with a small vegetable garden!

How to learn and do more?

I'm so happy you asked. The first goal is to keep this issue in our thoughts to help spread the idea, influence our actions and the way we consume.

In Orange County there are all sorts of opportunities for us. Environmental conservation groups like OC Parks or Back to Natives have regular events where residents have the chance to remove non-native plants, clean-up and repair habitats alongside local experts.

Check with your water district to find out about upcoming workshops, if they'll come out to your home and give you a free consultation, water saving tips and tax rebates for things like new toilets and sprinkler timers.

Attending local social groups that share an interest in sustainability can be another great resource.

Useful Web-Sites:

Upcoming workshops and events:

March 28th - Organic Dinner & Water Pollution Presentation - info on meetup
March 29th - Tour of Tanaka Farms - info on meetup
March 29th - Aliso and Wood Wilderness Park Volunteer Day
March 30th - Adult Wildflower Walk
March 30th - Fire Ecology
April 2nd - Eco-Friendly Gardening Practices: w/ Gisele Schoniger
April 5th - Bolsa Chica Hike: Salty Air in the Spring!
April 6th - Weed-a-Thon at Mason Regional Park
April 9th - Stewardship Days at Upper Newport Bay
April 12th - Friendly & Native Plants - Santa Margarita WD
April 12th - 2nd Saturday Restoration at Mason Regional Park
April 13th - Earth Day Weed-a-Thon at Mason Regional Park
April 19th - Keep It Wild Volunteer Day
April 23rd - Orange County Water 101 - info on meetup
April 26th - Landscape Design Basics - Santa Ana College
April 27th - Natives with Back to Natives - info on meetup
May 3rd - Mini Course - South Coast WD
June 7th- Mini Course - Metropolitan and OC WD
June 21st - Sprinkler Systems - Santa Margarita WD
June 21st - Mini Course - Santa Ana College

Click Here to view more details about many of the events listed above.

Environmental Conservation Groups:

Orange County Water Districts:

Sustainable groups:

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
Going Green in Orange County Meetup Group
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Home

Has the Real Estate Market Hit Bottom Yet?

2008-03-14T15:36:54Z

In Orange County, CA, I believe that we're nearly there, if not right on top of it.

New home sales and rental prices were one of my first indicators.

New home builders are the first home sellers to drastically slash prices. Their homes are rarely priced incorrectly because they're a cash flow company and must keep the income rolling in or else they're sunk. They're ahead of the price curve because of their competitiveness and need to continually be selling. Last Sunday, the Orange County Register showed new home sales up 1.9%. Meaning that they've already bottomed out. Re-sales will be soon to follow.

Lease prices have ceased in their steady climb upwards. I've seen no leases that have been leased for more then their asking price and the majority are being forced to reduce in price in order to attract potential tenants.

The inventory of well priced homes is starting to shrink and it's now common for listing agents (represent the seller) to have multiple offers from aggressive home buyers just weeks after listing the home.

Government tampering will also play a part in the economies recovery at a much greater cost to our future, but if you were to only live another 20 years or so, I suppose it'd be a good thing.

The ~~big banks~~ Corrupt Banks are already swallowing up other lenders and capitalizing greatly like they have done repetitively in the past.

There are of course terribly challenging obstacles that lay just around the corner. Under prepared baby boomers, run away inflation, endless and unaffordable wars, peak oil and the potential for a greater depression. So don't get too emotional about your next real estate deal! Live within your means, plan ahead and don't base your decision on the carpet color.

Don't believe in Federal Reserve conspiracies, sustaining unaffordable wars, inflation or peak oil? Visit my myspace blog HERE for links to watch online films for free now.

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
VISIT MY GREEN BLOG
Going Green in Orange County, CA Meetup Group
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

Car wash for "eco-friendly" real estate professionals

2008-03-06T03:35:22Z

Yeah, that's right. Eco-friendly in more ways then you may be ready for.
Here in Orange County we don't have enough rain water or local mountain springs to sustain our not so efficient population and lifestyle. I've heard that as much as 30% of the counties municipal electric bill is spent pumping needed water to us from other states. I'll get to the bottom of that sooner or later, but for now, it's obvious that there's a lot of waste and old school thinking going on. This new car washing company uses 1 pint of water to wash an entire car. Yes! One Pint. That's one Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream, one glass of beer or two cups of coffee. Quite a bit better than the estimated 782 pints of water that an average car wash needs to get the job done, don't you agree?

While Orange Countians happily drive about their beautiful county, thinking how fortunate they are to live here, they're unknowingly picking up all sorts of hazardous particles on their vehicles. So next time the vehicle is washed or one of our many rain showers roll in, these hazardous elements are washed off our cars and into our groundwater, sewer system or even the ocean.

ProntoWash uses micro fiber clothes to capture the undesirables. The clothes are professionally cleaned and the hazardous compounds are properly mitigated.

Environmentalists should be putting their money where their mouth is with this one. Consumer power is the easiest tool we have to bring change.

Another thing I find sustainable and pretty cool about this new car washing company is it's ability to integrate into existing infrastructure. No longer do we need large car wash facilities. They've plagued our cities for long enough!! Have you seen ProntoWash in the parking garages of the Irvine Spectrum yet? Using existing spaces in this fashion frees up more space in our county and offers a more valuable service to us all. Drop your car off and take care of some shopping, dinning, movie watching or hit the office to earn some illegal tender.

For those who doubt the ability to clean a car with one pint of water, some clothes and eco-friendly cleaning solutions... Try it for yourself!! I did and I don't plan on sitting around any outdated, dirty, water hogging car wash stations again.

Visit Opie Lopansri, Irvine Spectrum Franchise Owner

CLICK HERE to view web page for Irvine Location

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
VISIT MY GREEN BLOG
Going Green in Orange County, CA Meetup Group
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

Rethinking the placement of solar panels

2008-02-14T17:46:32Z

Why not turn this

Into this?

Growing up in a city built on rolling hills like Mission Viejo, I was always bothered by the fact that homeowners were forced to pay property tax on basically unusable hills they had purchased along with the rest of their home. Well, for those homeowners who have cursed their unusable land over the years, I may have a solution for you. If this unusable piece of land faces South, South-West or even West, you may consider installing a solar system.

Why not right?

You won't have to worry about repairing or placing your roof after installing a rooftop solar system either.

It's a new thought for residents of a city like Mission Viejo and the majority of Orange County. City planning departments will have their say as to what you will and won't be able to accomplish. Be respectful when dealing with city planning departments while you show them the actual laws to what you're aloud to do. Making enemies with these employees will not help your cause and make things more difficult for the next person to follow in your foot steps. So be nice!

Currently, the city of Mission Viejo treats such an installation on a case by case basis. Set-backs range from 3 to 7 feet along property lines and 3 - 10 feet at rear property line. Any system larger than 120 sqaure feet in size or 6 foot tall will be considered a structure and may fall under additional regulation. Most systems will be larger than 120 square feet and fall into this category.

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
Going Green in Orange County, CA
http://www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

!! ATTENTION !! "Green" real estate agents

2008-01-25T03:09:41Z

!! ASES National Home Solar Tour !!

Alright, so maybe it's a little early to start talking about an event that's taking place in October 2008. However, I don't want anyone who wants to participate in this event to plan something else and miss out on it. Also, you may like to spread the word to others or perhaps get local vendors of sustainable design services and/or products involved as well. There are also some tours scheduled much sooner than October so don't doddle.

Last year I toured around with some friends and had a blast meeting local homeowners with solar systems along with many other sustainable features. The event was poorly advertised and the turnout at most homes was terrible in Orange County, CA. I'm not sure what it was like in other areas, but I think it's safe to say that they need our help!

This event is perfect for real estate agents who advocate sustainability to take part in. Visit the ASES tour web-site, http://www.ases.org/tour, now to learn more about how you can help promote the event and/or volunteer as an organizer in your community.

ASES, http://www.ases.org, is leading the renewable energy revolution. A nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the use of solar energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable technologies in the U.S.

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
www.gogreenorangecounty.blogspot.com
Going GREEN in Orange County, CA - Meetup.com Group
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

Cutting back on moving waste

2008-01-14T01:11:38Z

The "Green" revolution will not only have a positive impact on our living conditions, it could improve our economy and will most certainly bring about all sorts of new employment for many. How long will the people of the United States wait while Germany leads the world in Solar Electric and Brazil in Bio-fuels? Earth Friendly Moving from Orange County, CA is an excellent example of exactly what's possible.

My clients have used Earth Friendly Moving and I've received great feedback in regards to both their service and the overall idea behind their business model. Click on the Youtube link below to watch a short video with Spencer Brown, Founder and Inventor.

The "Green" home builders are coming to Orange County, CA

2008-01-03T23:05:23Z

The Orange County United States Green Building Council Chapter has been growing exponentially over the last year and is expected to explode onto the scene as energy costs rise, product and service costs drop and the main stream understanding that "green" is often times practical sense.

The majority of sustainable building concepts are not new. They weren't invented buy a mad scientist and many are not a result of any sort of scientific breakthrough. Sustainable building concepts have been developed over the ages by man and almost completely forgotten over the last 70 years. As oil and other cheap energy came onto the scene business found it more profitable to push fancy mechanical systems upon you. As a result, home building companies have produced homes that may not even be habitable or affordable without cheap energy.

Whether you're an environmentalist, a trendy "green" yuppie or just a cheap bastard, it's easy to see why building and living more sustainably makes logical sense.

Too many home builders the newest trend to get an edge on your competition is to go "green". As a home builder today, it's difficult to separate yourself in this depressed housing market, but many are seeing green... in "green"... I know, I know. I felt embarrassed as I typed that. So anyways, it's important for consumers to be sure they're not getting caught up in the hype of an "eco-friendly" or "green" product. Both "eco-friendly" and "green" have little to no backing. They're buzz words. They're often words used to emotionally separate you from your personal wealth. So watch out!

Recently, I visited an Olson Homes Company project in Orange, CA called Depot Walk. "In-town, in style, and in reach" has been their mantra since 1988 and I believe they've got it right. First, many of their new home projects are built in existing neighborhoods opposed to taking over the foothills or other cheap open spaces. Next, the Depot Walk is as it sounds... within a very short walking distance from the train station. Also, building in the town center inspires and allows a stronger relationship with the community.

The Depot Walk is also a LEED® certified project. All 32 homes within the project come with their own solar array and more sustainable products and features then you've most likely heard of. There is no sacrifice in going "green" at the Depot Walk and like most "green" principles and products, it's a much more comfortable living environment. The LEED® certification is a rigorous and expensive process where the building(s) must meet and pass certain sustainable tests and qualifications. Not only does the certification encourage energy efficiency, renewable materials and sustainable building techniques, but it also awards builders for installing cultural features like bike racks.

Lastly, in regards to Olson Homes, I was impressed by how well informed the staff was, how much they knew about the homes they were selling and their genuine enthusiasm towards the project's ideals.

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

California Energy Policy Act of 2005 and beyond

2007-11-26T18:02:56Z

Under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT), homeowners who make energy-related improvements in 2006 and 2007 may qualify for tax credits. Products include:

Exterior windows and skylights
Exterior doors
Certain roofing materials
Storm windows
Storm doors
Certain water heating equipment
Insulation
Main air circulating fans
Central air conditioners
Gas, oil or propane furnaces and hot water boilers
Air-source and geothermal heat pumps

In order to qualify, products must meet standards set by the IRS for each products type. Most credits are based on a percentage of products cost excluding installation, whereas for heating systems components flat credits apply. Only improvements to primary residence qualify, and they must be made between Jan 1st, 2006 and December 31st, 2007. Homeowner tax credits for the tax years 2006 and 2007 combined are capped at $500.

Homeowners can harness the sun's energy for even larger tax credits. Credits up to 30%, capped at $2000, are available for qualified photovoltaic systems, fuel cells and solar water heating systems. For the latter, only solar components and not the entire water heating system can be claimed. The solar-heated water must be used within the residence, so tell your clients not to plan on the IRS' help in heating their hot tubes and swimming pools. Qualified systems must be placed in service between January 1st, 2006 and December 31st, 2008.

Consult a tax professional regarding IRS regulations.
For a general summary, visit:
www.energystart.gov
www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm

It's important that we continue to promote solar electric, but I'm not in favor of subsidizing on a Federal level and don't like the idea of it on the state level either. Let's not forget that Oil and other competing energy is subsidized as well. Solar failed to launch in the 70s because oil companies drastically reduced their prices to keep us addicted to cheap fuel. Oil interests are well aware that they can't buy the sun. So preventing solar electric from becoming popular and used enough so that prices will drop is their goal. Why do you think Gov. Schwarzenegger has been touring around opening Hydrogen pumps with Shell? Using tax payer money to promote a terrible fuel solution. They want to keep you hooked on their fuel no matter what the cost. Hydrogen power currently uses more power to produce the fuel then you get out of it. With solar electric or electric in general, you won't depend on coal plants for your housing power or on Shell to fuel your vehicle and it will even help local utility companies to manage brown and blackouts. Just plug into your home system and away you go.

This is the future for a freer REPUBLIC (not a democracy) of the United States of America.

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

National Solar Home Tour 10/6/2007

2007-10-05T12:46:54Z

For anyone who is considering solar for their home as well as many other "green" housing principles and products, this is an event you can not miss. To my knowledge the event functions like any other open house tour. Simply pick out the homes you'd like to visit and be there within the given time frame.

http://www.ases.org/tour (Official web-site)

The ASES National Solar Tour is the largest tour of sustainable energy features for buildings in the U.S. Now in its 12th year, some 100,000 people across the nation will see how neighbors are using clean sources of energy to save on energy bills and protect the environment. Through a series of open-houses and informative tours participants learn about renewable energy options, energy efficient design, real-world costs, current rebates available, and other valuable insights.

Homeowners participating in Orange County, CA tour:

Placentia Butch Pash 10-2
624 Carnation Dr. Placentia
Solectria EV Native plants, featured in Register story

Seal Beach Lisa and Doug Korthof Hm: 562-430-2495 cell: 714-496- 1567 10-2
1020 Mar Vista 4.5kW
Battery Backup to last 2 days, Two All-electric RAV4-EV plug-in cars, Domestic Time-of-Use pricing.
MarVista is the same as 5th St. in Seal Beach, turn left from PCH away from the Ocean.

Seal Beach Robert Zmuda 10-2
1020 Catalina 3.2kW
S10-EV
Former Th!nk-EV lessee
Catalina is the next street parallel to MarVista, to the West

Huntington Harbour Linda and Howard Nicholes-Stein 10-4
3541 Sagamore Dr. Huntington Harbour, HB
Two all-electric plug-in RAV4-EV "Electra" and "Electron", plus Prius "Heidi the Hybrid". Featured in the "Dont' Crush" campaign to save fleet-lease RAV4-EV from the crusher, and featured in docu-drama "Who Killed the Electric Car". Two solar homes.
From Edinger and Bolsa Chica, proceed West on Edinger to Trinidad, Turn left over the bridge, turn right when Trinidad dead-ends and right again at the first street.

Huntington Beach John Fisher and Debbie Cook 10-2
6692 Shetland Circle
Angled Sharp panels follow roof contours.
Goldenwest South to Ellis, turn Right (West) Proceed to Quarterhorse, turn left (toward Ocean) Shetland is on the left

Huntington Beach John Scott family 962-1746 10-2
22032 Capistrano Lane
Environmental and civic betterment, installed their own long-time solar water, and clean air advocate. Sunpower panels.
From PCH, proceed North on Magnolia to Banning, turn Right (East or South) and another Right on Capistrano

Huntington Beach Richard Kelly family 10-2
20591 Paisley Lane
EV advocate, all-electric plug-in pickup truck
From John Scott home, proceed East (right) on Banning. Turn left (north) on Bushard. Turn Right on Erskine (becomes Iona Lane). Turn Left on Netherway, it becomes Paisley.

Corona del Mar NB Baker family
706 1/2 Begonia enter from alley behind PCH 2.7kW
Hybrid Highlander surf wagon, tankless hybrid water heating.

Orange Bob Siebert eesolar@sbcglobal.net Founder, EESolar 10-4
1308 Fairway Dr., Orange
ACP Conversion, Bob personally converted an IC car to a plug-in, all-electric conversion using ACPropulsion.com technology with Thundersky Lithium batteres. Also Prius. Long-time energy efficiency pioneer.
From 22 East FWY, exit Tustin Ave., turn left (north). First left after the FWY entrance (don't take!) is Fairway, it's easy to miss. Turn left on Fairway

Villa Park Heide Residence 10-2
18412 Hillcrest Ave.
Energy Efficient windows, proper insulation, solar water
North on 55 to Katella. Left onto Wanda, which becomes Santiago Blvd. Right onto Taft, then Left onto Center Dr.. Turn right at Hillcrest

Laguna Woods Prelitz family 10-4
3513 Calle Bahia Blanca West
Access thru gate off Calle Corta.
Give name "Prelitz" and address. 1.6 kW
Total green makeover that will be featured on Discovery Channel's "Green That House" show. Airs mid November. New insulation, Radiant barrier, solar water heating, New doors and windows with Low E3 glass, passive orientation w/ trombe wall, Non-Toxic finishes, and solar oven cookies.
From 5 FWY take El Toro Rd. South past Moulton Pkwy. Turn Right onto Calle Sonora, proceed to gate and ask directions.

San Clemente Lyn Harris Hicks 10-4
3908 Calle Ariana, Cypress Shore.
Access thru gate call 949 492 5078 2.7kW
Solar and renewable energy advocate

Evan T. Little
Realtor®
EcoBroker®
Orange County, CA
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com
CLICK HERE to Browse Orange County, CA Homes

Battling junk mail - credit card applications

2007-09-15T19:26:57Z

These days, I enjoy receiving credit card applications from the banks that are aimed at enslaving me. Inside the envelopes I receive, the credit card institution have conveniently included a pre-paid postage return envelope. I simply tear off the section showing my contact information on the opening letter and write, "remove my address". The bulk mail they use is much cheaper then using first class stamps. I know, I've used the same services. However it still accounts for a significant amount of their expanses and if this became a trend, it could have a massive impact on their ability to market in this fashion.

Also, I write down information about important causes on the return envelope. I like to think that someone in the mail department or perhaps an employee of the credit card company will take note of my message and share it with others.

However you do it, I guarantee you'll enjoy dropping the pre-paid return envelope back in the mail box, knowing you've just cut into the pockets of the credit card institutions.

Evan T. Little
EcoBroker® Certified
Search Orange County homes now
www.volklinvestmentsinc.com