Real Estate Perspectives

Time to Upgrade?

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:08:22 -0500

More people in the Midlands remodeled homes in 2008 than the previous year, but they spent less money doing it. More people appear to be staying put amid a cooling real estate market, but they are using their money to make upgrades that will add value when the market turns and allow them to enjoy the benefits of a remodel now. Others have found good deals on houses and want to modify them to fit their lifestyles. Home sales in the Columbia area fell 28% in the first three months of 2009, compared to the same period last year. Some people are being forced to stay in their homes because of market conditions and are deciding to renovate or add on. Some are even smaller jobs such as screening in a porch. Homeowners are really looking for someone to help them figure out how to maximize a return on investment. While investing in kitchens and bathrooms is usually a good bet, individual decisions must be made on the home. A master bathroom is almost a must for some buyers while younger buyers are looking for open floor plans.

Top Selling Homes in Columbia and Mortgage Rates

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 13 May 2009 17:04:45 -0500

Here are this weeks top 3 selling home prices in Richland and Lexington:

Richland:

$624,413 - 27 Club Ridge Court, Elgin 29045

$465,000 - 104 Old Still Road West, Columbia 29223

$435,000 - 129 Hamptons Grant Court, Columbia 29209

Lexington:

$330,000 - 120 Inverness Drive, Lexington 29072

$325,000 - 135 Cross Creek Drive, Columbia 29212

$309,000 - 129 Quiet Cove Drive, Chapin 29036

Here are this week's mortgage rates:

30 Year: 4.84%

15 Year: 4.51%

Tour of Homes Winners Announced for Columbia and Lexington

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:53:13 -0500

You have one more opportunity to visit this year's Tour of Homes on Saturday and Sunday from noon-6PM. The Tour is sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia. Here are this year's winners:

Under $125,000 - Best overall: The Dawson by Executive Construction, LLC, Dawson's Park, Lexington.

Honorable mention: The Brooke by Executive Construction, LLC, Indigo Place, W. Columbia

$126,000-$200,000 - Best overall: The Hutchinson by Holiday Builders, Chandler Hall, SE Columbia

Honorable mention - The Keowee AA by Essex Homes, SE, Allan's Mill, SE Columbia

$201,000-$300,000 - Best overall: The Kaeley by Essex Homes, SE, Ashland Falls at Lake Carolina, NE Columbia

Honorable mention: The Remmington by Essex Homes, SE, Magnolia Pointe, Irmo

$301,000-$400,000 - Best overall: The Reece by Clifton Custom Homes, Westcott Ridge, Chapin

Honorable mention: The Charlestowne by S.E. Miller Construction Inc., Harborside at Lake Carolina, NE Columbia

$401,000-$500,000 - Best overall: The Sorento by Key Construction/Holder Properties, ADESSO, Downtown Columbia

Honorable mention: The Pelham, Circle H Builders, Crickentree, NE Columbia

$501,000-$750,000 - Best overall: The Saluda by Dunbar Builders, Saluda River Club, Lexington

Honorable mention: The South of Broad by Donna Gardner Builders, Saluda River Club, Lexington

$750,000 and above - Best overall: The Concept Homes by Berry Builders, Lake Carolina, NE Columbia

Rules to Travel By

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Fri, 08 May 2009 17:01:47 -0500

These "Ten Commandments of Travel" will help you avoid problems and even enjoy business and leisure trips.

1. Travel is difficult and it costs too much. Think and plan ahead. If you think you're going to get it as easy as the $49 flight commercials you see on tv, think again. Be as flexible as you can and be ready to act.

2. Book smartly. There is so much information available out there. Check out farecast.com to see what your flight has cost in the past to see if you are actually getting a good deal or not. Allow yourself plenty of time by arriving a day or two early for a wedding or cruise. Airlines aren't dependable enough to cut it that close.

3. Plan for trouble. Always have a backup plan. Ask your pilots how much "duty time" they have left in the day. If your flight is delayed and they don't have much duty time left, start trying to get another flight or a hotel.

4. Learn something. Have fun when you travel. Build in an extra day to try the regional cuisine, see a new city, and learn local culture.

5. Enjoy perks that pay. Sometimes you can get lucky and find deals on better seats, valet service, and VIP airport club day passes for when you really need them.

6. Stay local. Concentrate your spending to generate quicker connections to free perks. If you prefer an airline, use it often to get perks. Become a VIP customer at your favorite hotel chain.

7. Never check anything you can't live without. Sometimes you have to check luggage, but never check something you MUST have: medicine, valuable papers, jewelry, etc.

8. Play the upgrade game. Each company has their own games, so play wisely. For hotels, its best to show up late at night and try and get the upgrade to a suite when the clerk knows its not going to rent.

9. Ask nicely. Even if you aren't treated nicely by airport staff, don't stoop to their level. You're not the one trying to check-in hundreds of thousands of people in one shift. If you treat them nicely when their frustrated, it will get you farther in the long run.

10. Be kind to your fellow traveler. Be helpful and kind to those traveling around you. Before you recline your airplane seat, ask the person behind you if its ok to descend into their space.

Short Sales - An Attorney's Perspective

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Fri, 01 May 2009 14:59:23 -0500

In today's real estate market, there isn't a straight answer for most situations. Not only are you learning along the way during a real estate short sale, but so are the real estate agents, bankers and sellers. Here is an important checklist of issues buyers and sellers need to consider when purchasing or listing a short sale property.

Short Sale Listings:

Setting a good and comparable listing price for a short sale is quite important to attract the right buyers and bring an offer quickly to the lender. Choosing an expert real estate professional that has dealt with short sales can be quite beneficial.

The buyer must put together all the information requested by the lender that is required for short sale consideration:

1) A hardship letter that honestly describes how the situation was entered - the more details the better and include any supporting evidence of the hardship to further prove to the bank.

2) Include the last few months of pay stubs.

3) Include the last few months of bank statements, last 2 years of tax returns, and last 2 years of W-2 statements.

4) Also, complete a financial statement showing the detailed incomes and expenses.

The Listing Agent:

1) Must provide a CMA to support the listing sale price

2) Must keep track of all the activities related to the transaction to be on top of all the parties involved. They also must stay in good communication with sellers and the lenders.

3) It is also helpful to have a list of items that detract from the properties value, along with verifiable proof. Take pictures of any repairs to the house, any houses on the street that may be a drag to housing prices, and provide rough estimates of what it may cost to make the property otherwise 100% sellable.

The Title Company:

1) Needs to estimate the closing related expenses such as any tax liens, judgments, commissions, lien search fee and more.

2) Preliminary HUD

Buying a Short Sale:

A short sale may appear like a regular transaction but the short sale timeline is quite an obstacle for many involved. It definitely requires a lot of follow up and consistent communication. Once the seller and buyer are delivered written approval by the bank or lender on the short sale, things can move very quickly.

Contributed by:

Thomas J. Harrington

Real Estate Attorney

Brock & Scott, PLLC

(803) 237-6422

Thomas.Harrington@brockandscott.com

Storing Your Outdoor Sporting Items

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 20:52:02 -0500

People who spend a lot of time outdoors often have a lot of equipment. The problem is where to store this equipment. Here are some good tips on what to do:

1. Decide where you are going to store your kayak, bikes or hunting gear.

2. Ask a friend about your plan to store items.

3. Use plastic tubs to store smaller items.

4. Set up shelves for items to be placed on or hung from.

5. Look to your ceiling for extra storage space.

6. Use walls with pegboards.

7. Use masking tape and permanent markers to identify.

8. Recycle storage items.

9. Use a milk crate to store items.

10. Use a rod rack or caddy to store fishing rods.

11. Create a system to handle items when you return from a trip.

12. If you don't use it anymore, get rid of it!

Read a Great Book about our Current Economic Conditions- Take a Peek

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:37:31 -0500

You've got to take a look at this awesome read by Harry S. Dent (2008). The Great Depression Ahead is right on target. Here's an excerpt about it from his website www.hsdent.com

"Harry S. Dent accurately foresaw the recession of 1990-1991, the expansion of the mid-nineties, and the boom of 1998-2000. Now, in The Great Depression Ahead, he predicts that our economy is on course towards a major depression, not unlike the one that struck Japan a decade ago. The slowdown, he says, will continue for at least a decade.

The Great Depression Ahead offers much more than just doom and gloom. Dent suggests practical steps that investors can take today to inoculate themselves against tomorrow's worst and to position themselves to take advantage of changing conditions. Property owners, he says, should either sell immediately or prepare to hedge-perhaps by drawing equity out of a home and investing it in zero-coupon treasuries.

The economy is as volatile and worrisome as it's ever been. Harry S. Dent's is one voice that no serious investor can afford to ignore."

Couple this with watching the BBC news and you've got some real info!

God Bless My Friends,

Troy

Is the White House turning Green?

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 22:15:45 -0500

Obama is quickly finding out two things as he looks for ways to make the White House more environmentally friendly.

1. It's already been done.

2. It needs to be done again.

In 1993, Bill Clinton started "greening" the White House and saved $1.4 million in the first six years. He took projects on such as lighting, heating and air, insulation, and water sprinklers. During George Bush's two terms, three solar panels were installed including one that heats the pool and showers. Bush also started an office paper recycling program.

Before he took office, Barack Obama wanted to start an initiative that would show American's that it isn't that hard to go green. He said, he already did it in his own house, so why not take it to a grander scale that is in the public's eye, so that they too can be more cautious about their energy use.

The first-family is starting off on the right foot. Michelle Obama broke ground on an organic herb and vegetable garden. The Obamas installed an environmentally friendly wooden swing set for the girls. Although the full plan has not been created, the Obamas are taking small steps in the right direction to get it started.

Making Your Home Safe For Seniors

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:34:58 -0500

Every year in the US, 1/3 of people over 65 falls. Falling is also the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults according to the CDC. What for most is a simple misstep, can turn into a life altering injury or death for the elderly. With older folks having been hit hard in their retirement by the economy, many are choosing to not sell their homes in our market, but instead make them safer.

The most dangerous room for seniors to fall in is the bathroom. Manuevering between the bathtub, toilet and shower can be difficult for older individuals, especially on wet surfaces and late night trips to the bathroom. One important step that may shock you, is to remove rugs, even if they have been there for years. Trade your old rugs in for newer slip-resistant ones and make sure the flooring in your bathroom is uniform.

Some more tips to make your home safe for seniors include:

-Make sure wall-to-wall carpeting is secure and flat without wrinkles or raised areas.

-Fix and update poor lighting and add nightlights for trips to the bathroom.

-Place nonskid adhesive strips in the bathtub or shower floor, or a plastic shower chair to help get in and out.

-A raised toilet seat with armrests can also make using the restroom easier.

-Keeping your balance is important so install handrails near the toilet, bathtub or shower.

-Some no brainers include having well lit stairs, remove clutter from floors, and don't wax hardwoods where seniors walk.

Aging is never anyone's favorite topic, especially if the one aging is you. Instead of thinking of this as age--proofing, think of it as remodeling. Remember safety is first!

Bugs Can Be Good For Your Garden

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:49:18 -0500

Now that Spring has sprung, gardeners are preparing for some time outdoors. This year, how about invite some insects to join you in the garden as well. Beneficial insects can help reduce the amount of bad insects by eating them. There are two types of beneficial insects: predators and parasitoids. Predators eat the harmful bugs and some types include preying mantis, green lynx spiders, ground beetles, lacewigs, and ladybugs. Parasitoids have two jobs: pollinating and comsuming pests. They include wasps, flies and bees, but are so small that they will not harm the gardner.

The easiest way to attract beneficial bugs is to plant their favorite flowers, which are flower forms for nuzzling nectar or hunting prey. One of the best types is a Queen Anne's Lace or any other with a blossom or landing pad such as: fennel, cilantro, dill, and parsley, alyssum, oregano, mint, basil, thyme zinnias, daisies, coneflowers, and sunflowers. It is important to spread these plants out through your garden to lure the beneficial insects. Make sure to not over fertilize because many pests can detect high nitrogen in plants and will move on.

How to Choose the Right Contractor

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 16:45:07 -0500

Many people these days are staying in their homes and remodeling, instead of moving, in order to avoid losing money due to the low home values across the nation. If you are one of these people, make sure that you hire the right contractor by following these steps:

1. In South Carolina, look up a contractor's license through the SC Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation's web site, https:/verify.llronline.com/liclooklup

2. Ask to see a contractor's insurance policies and note the name of the insurers and policy numbers.

3. Look at the Remodelers Council of Greater Columbia web site (remcouncil.com). It includes a list of remodelers who are members of the organization, which is part of the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia.

4. Is your remodeler a Certified Remodeler? NARI has a certification program that ensures a formalized standard of expertise, knowledge and ethical conduct among professional remodelers. NARI Professional Certification includes: Certified Remodelers, Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodelers and Certified Lead Carpenters.

Take a Plunge and Become a Homeowner!

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:11:34 -0600

First time home buyers have a stronger presence in real estate, now making up 41% of all buyers, inticed to buy by the many perks available. Home prices are down by around 25% from their mid-2006 peak, with some markets down by almost 40%, such as Phoenix, Miami and Las Vegas. With homes sitting on the market longer, sellers are more inclined to negotiate lower prices and low mortgage rates make it even easier to buy. Not to mention the newly passed $8,000 tax break for first timers as long as they stay in their home for three years.

"Buyers are now coming back into those hardhit markets to take advantage," says Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the Realtors' association. "It's a buyer's market."

A couple of obstacles first time home buyers will encounter is making sure they have an acceptable credit score and the money for a downpayment. Finding the perfect home is also a challenge. Most first time home buyers are looking for starter and smaller homes, while right now, many of the deals out there are on luxury condos and sprawling single family houses.

Real estate professionals are still banking on first time home buyers being the stimulator of our dry housing market. Many are hosting information sessions, specifically for first timers with information on tax incentives, local market information and mortgage programs.

Now is the time to act. If your finances are in line and you are ready to become a homeowner, contact your Realtor to discuss everything involved. With so many incentives for first time home buyers available, be proactive. The last thing you want is to look back and see a missed opportunity for one of the greatest investments you can ever make.

Refinancing: What You Need to Know

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:45:56 -0600

With some of the lowest interests rates we've seen in decades available for conforming loan amounts, people are rushing to refinance, especially those who currently have adjustable-rate mortgages. While it is possible that rates will be this low for a while, with this turbulent economy, it's important to be proactive and secure a better financial future for you and yours before it is too late. Here are some other important factors to consider:

1. Have an idea of a home's value: It's best to contact a real estate professional for the most accurate advice but you can also take advantage of websites such as Zillow.com to get an estimate of what your home is worth. If you owe more than the value of your home, take a look at the President's new Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan for ways you may be able to qualify for refinancing.

2. Get Ready for a Thorough Screening Process: It's not impossible to get a mortgage in today's financial environment, but standards are tougher. Now, lenders are incredibly thorough in order to confirm you are eligible for the loan you are requesting. Lenders will require you to document income and assests thoroughly, and will generally want a FICO credit score of 660 or better.

3. Know What You'll Be Saving: If you can recover the required closing costs within the first 12 months and save 3/4 of a percentage point on your rate for the remainder of the loan, then it's probably a good idea to refinance. Discuss this with your preferred lender as this is their area of expertise.

4. Don't Count on Cashing Out: Taking out your home equity with a cash-out refinance isn't as easy nowadays. The combinations of tighter underwriting standards and declining home values have reduced the amount of equity available.

9 Get Smart Projects for 2009's Down Market

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:58:00 -0600

What projects make sense to do during a down market? What will make your house easier to live in now and sell later? Take a look at these 9 projects that will be your best bet.

1. Siding and Window Replacement: According to Remodeling magazine, these are the two projects that you will see your costs recouped the most. These projects may cost you from $10,000-$20,000 but they add so much to your curb appeal, increase energy efficiency, and minimize maintenance issues.

2. Turning Your Home Green: Anything "green" will help sell your home in the future while helping your energy costs in the meantime. This includes: reinsulating, caulking, new windows and doors, more energy efficient sky-lights, low-flow faucets and hot water heaters, and new energy efficient appliances.

3. Deck Addition: If you are the only house in the neighborhood without one, go ahead and build it. It will help with resale, especially with buyers desiring outdoor space.

4. Cosmetics: Some things could be as simple as painting, replacing carpet, switching to hardwoods, or updating tile.

5. Stand Out: Add features such as crown molding or faux painting to make future buyers go "wow!"

6. Kitchen Remodeling: Kitchens and bathrooms are always important in a home as thats generally what sells the house. Don't go crazy, but keep your budget in the $5,000-$20,000 range to replace countertops, add new appliances, resurface good cabinets, or add new hardware.

7. Bathroom Remodel: Skip the giant tub, get a smaller soaking tub, and go for a great body spray shower with mosaics or stone tilework.

8. Reinvent Your Space: Home additions are out for now, so take a clustered room and reinvent it. Turn your mud room into an efficient storage area or turn that underused dining room into a study or in-law area.

9. Electric Radiant Heat: Costing around $8-$15 per square foot, adding radiant heating to a room that you're already replacing the floor in is a good idea. This requires little space between tiles or flooring and runs on its own thermostat.

Irmo and NE Richland Home Sales and Prices

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:58:24 -0600

Home Sales

2008

Irmo: 1,224 (-25% from 2007)

NE: 2,261 (-20% from 2007)

2007

Irmo: 1,631 (-1% from 2006)

NE: 2,835 (-11% from 2006)

2006

Irmo: 1,654 (-4% from 2005)

NE: 3,174 (+5% from 2005)

2005

Irmo: 1,729 (+2% from 2004)

NE: 3,023 (+14% from 2004)

Median Price

2008

Irmo: $135,500 (+4% from 2007)

NE: $155,390 (-3% from 2007)

2007

Irmo: $130,107 (-3% from 2006)

NE: $159,900 (+5% from 2006)

2006

Irmo: $134,497 (+2% from 2005)

NE: $153,000 (+6% from 2005)

2005

Irmo: $132,000 (+6% from 2004)

NE: $145,000 (+3% from 2004)

Downtown Columbia SC Sales and Price Figures

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:09:33 -0600

Downtown - 29201, 29204, 29205, 29206

Home Sales

2008: 1,023 (-17% from 2007)

2007: 1,230 (-8% from 2006)

2006: 1,334 (+14% from 2005)

2005: 1,172 (+7% from 2004)

Median Price

2008: $180,000 (+5% from 2007)

2007: $172,000 (+5% from 2006)

2006: $163,900 (+12% from 2005)

2005: $146,700 (+8% from 2004)

Lexington SC Sales and Price Figures

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:07:50 -0600

Lexington - 29072, 29073

Home Sales

2008: 1,470 (-26% from 2007)

2007: 1985 (+13% from 2006)

2006: 1,758 (+2% from 2005)

2005: 1,730 (+10% from 2004)

Median Price

2008: $154,400 (-1% from 2007)

2007: $156,465 (+3% from 2006)

2006: $151,797 (+7% from 2005)

2005: $141,812 (+10% from 2004)

Tight Homes and Air Pollution

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:27:05 -0600

During the colder months, we all spend more time indoors and the quality of the air inside becomes more important. There are many things that can pollute the air including combustion sources such as oil, gas, wood and tobacco, building materials such as insulation and damp carpet, household cleaners, furniture and carpet. Excessive moisture and high temperatures can cause mold issues while carbon monoxide from gas stoves, dryers, and furnaces can cause illness or death if not vented properly.

Many problems started in the 1970s and 1980s as builders increased the amount of insulation to reduce energy costs, but didn't balance that with the ventilation system. Indoor air became trapped and couldn't be exchanged with fresh outdoor air. Studies show that indoor air is five times more polluted than outdoor air.

To improve your indoor air, you must filter it to remove the small particles in the air, adjust temperatures to create a comfortable environment, and have a stable humidity level that is neither to wet or dry. Heat dries out indoor air and if there isn't new moisture created to level it out, drywall nails and screws may pop and it can cause dry skin.

If your house is too "tight," you can install a ventilation-recovery unit to create a regular exchange of indoor/outdoor air. Use building products that have low or no volatile organic compounds. Make sure your heating system reaches every part of the house and make sure gas-fired units are serviced regularly and cleaned for proper combustion.

Gamecock Basketball Turning Around?

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 10:17:55 -0600

Did anyone see the South Carolina vs Florida basketball game last night? With 4.7 seconds left, Zam Fredricks missed a foul shot putting us 1 point shy of a tie. The foul was rebounded by Florida's Chandler Parson's who then got a chance at a foul shot with 3.3 seconds left, but failed to make it. Carolina's Mike Holmes got the rebound, threw a flawless pass down court to Fredricks, who made a successful layup as the buzzer sounded!

GAMECOCKS 70

FLORIDA 69

This victory doesn't hardly make up for the incredible embarrasment USC encountered facing Florida in football this year, but it sure felt good.

I've become very impressed with Darrin Horn's turnaround of the Gamecock defense and have even seen some improvement in the player's focus. He has also inspired the fanbase to become enthusiastic during games, and the student section, now coined the "Garnet Army" and dressed in garnet and black camo, create an atmosphere that Gamecock basketball hasn't seen in years! Hopefully this turnaround will continue with the new coach and we'll have many winning seasons to come. Who knows, maybe we'll even top the SEC.

Moving Your House in this Tight Economy

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 14:23:40 -0600

Conspicuous consumption is out and deal-hunting is in. There are many home buyers out there despite the recession, but they require a lot more value for their money. Home sellers must resist the urge to argue over small money matters and realize they will probably get a good deal on the next home they buy. Here are some suggestions for home sellers to move their property in the economic times we are faced with:

Don't price based on an "I need" basis: Many sellers are tempted to price their home on what they "need" to make in the transaction. Home shoppers aren't concerned with your financial needs and often won't even view a property that is overpriced. Review the current market with your real estate agent. Pull the most recent comparable sales and remember, the market determines the price.

Treat all bidders with respect: In the past, sellers have often received multiple offers and entered a bidding war. But with offers not flying in as they used to, sellers need to be more cautious with counter-offers. This doesn't mean accept the first low ball offer that comes in, but instead follow the market and determine what is a fair amount.

Accommodate the timing preferences of buyers: Time is money in real estate. Often buyers want a farther away closing date because they are not quite ready to move. On the contrary, many are ready and want to be in your home very quickly. In order to make the deal work, work with the buyers and be very accommodating.

Use caution with inspection reports: Almost all home buyers have a home inspection completed prior to closing these days. When the home inspection report comes back, appease the buyer by making the small repairs requested. Even though you may not feel they are necessary, they are often inexpensive and will make a smooth transaction. Be cautious when an inspector suggests large and often very expensive repairs. If you feel the repair not necessary, have your listing agent tactfully request a second opinion.

Columbia, SC is Getting Cold - Prepping Your Plumbing

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 12:20:08 -0600

Down here in South Carolina, we are not used to the cold weather we are about to experience.

Here are some tips on how to prepare your pipes for some FREEZING weather!

Outside plumbing

Caulk around pipes where they enter the house . Close all foundation vents. (Open foundation vents are probably the greatest cause of frozen or split water lines.) Cut wood or styrofoam blocks to fit vent openings, then slide them into the vents. (Styrofoam is available at hardware stores or from insulation suppliers.) Open the vents again in the spring to prevent dry rot.
Protect outside pipes and faucets. In some homes, the outside faucet has a separate shut-off in the basement. If you have a separate valve for outside faucets, shut if off. Then go outside and turn on all the faucets to drain water in the lines. Leave the outside faucets on while you go back and check your outside shut-off valve for a small brass plug or cap on the valve. Turn this plug far enough that water drains from the valve. Then, tighten the plug back and turn off all the outside faucets.
Wrap outside faucets or hose bibs. Do this if you don't have a separate valve to turn off outside faucets. (Also remember to disconnect garden hoses.) Use newspaper or rags covered with plastic, fiberglass or molded foam insulating covers to wrap the faucet. (Molded foam insulating covers are available at plumbing and hardware stores.)
Drain in-ground sprinkler systems. Check manufacturer's instructions for the best way to do this.

Inside plumbing

Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as the crawl space, attic, garage or basement. Use insulating tape or molded pipe sleeve and wrap it over the entire length of exposed pipe. Cover all valves, pipe-fittings, etc. with insulating tape or fiberglass. (Check your hardware store for supplies.)
Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving home for several days. (Turn off the water heater before draining the system.) Leaving your furnace on a low setting while you're gone helps, but may not prevent freezing. Turn off the main shut-off valve, then go through the house and turn on all faucets, sinks, tubs, showers, etc., and flush the toilets. Go back to the valve and remove the plug so that it can drain completely. Follow-up by re-tightening the valve and turning off the open faucets.
Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms. Water lines supplying the kitchen or bathrooms are frequently located in outside walls. Any air leaks in siding or insulation can cause these pipes to freeze. Leaving the cupboard doors open when the temperature is below freezing allows pipes behind the cupboards to get more heat.
Let the water run if the temperature dips below freezing. (A stream slightly smaller than a pencil width should be sufficient.) Faucets farthest from the street should be the ones left running. Using cold water will save on your gas or electric bill.

Luxury Lifestyles Near Lake Murray

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:50:07 -0600

The Courtyards at Salem Place

Experience Luxury Lifestyles Near Lake Murray

www.CourtyardsatSalemPlace.com

All-brick exteriors with stucco trim
Two-car garage
Stainless steel appliances
Granite countertops
Carpet, hardwood and ceramic tile flooring
Kitchen pantry
Trey ceiling in Great Room
Custom built cabinetry
Custom walk-in closets
Rear patio
Clubhouse with ample parking
Boating, fishing and lakeside dining are just minutes away
Lexington School District Five
Lighthouse Marina boat storage available
No closing cost option available
One year membership to any Metro area YMCA included

When it came time for my husband, Sonny, and I to retire after living in Chicago and Atlanta for the
past fifteen years we always knew we would come home to Columbia. We also knew we wanted to build in order to get what we wanted in a home and The Courtyards At Salem Place presented us with just that opportunity.

We took one of the standard plans that the builder offered and customized it to meet our needs. One of the first things we did was to extend the garage by 3 ft and the great room by 7 ft. We added additional windows and instead of them being 5 ft tall we made them 6 ft tall plus took out a wall between the kitchen eating area and great room in order to open it up more. We chose to have a gas tankless hot water heater and a gas surface unit for cooking. We decided on stained cabinets in the kitchen and customized them with a corner turntable in what was a lost space and had many pull out drawers installed; some were deep drawers, for better storage. We also have a custom tile backsplash and a composite sink.

Our master bedroom suite has a very large walk-in closet with pocket doors and in the bath area
we did an extra large custom tile shower with a sitting bench. We have a lot of built-ins and one of our favorite is the custom designed dry bar in the great room. It has a built-in refrigerator and wine
rack plus extensive storage and display areas. Upstairs in our bonus room we have two built-in bookcases plus a long built-in area that has file drawers and storage space.

In our backyard we have installed a beautiful water feature, expanded our patio and installed pavers and a sitting wall. We are in the process of landscaping it and will soon have the perfect spot to
relax and entertain.

The Courtyards At Salem Place is an all brick community that is located in a very quiet and enjoyable area near Lake Murray. We are close to shopping and are very fortunate to have wonderful neighbors. We are looking forward to spending many, many happy years here.

Carolyn Chunn

Choose from 6 custom plans by Hall Builders or build your own plan. Hall Builders is a residential builder specializing in the construction of custom homes in the Columbia, Lake Murray and Folly Beach markets. Hall Builders has constructed and sold approximately 100 homes valued at $20,000,000 since the year 200.Founder and owner of Hall Builders, Cliff Hall, has a wide range of experience with real estate and development services.

Hot jobs: Demand, pay is high for the right skills

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:44:37 -0600

It's often said someone makes money even in a bad economy. Whereas workers in some industries are being laid off by the thousands, in others the watchword is "hired," not "fired," as new employees are being promised high paying jobs. Of course, many of the jobs have their downsides, but the financial incentives can be great.

Accounting: Nationwide, college accounting programs are booming, filled to capacity, growing and taking on more faculty. "As it turns out, accounting is rather resilient in good and bad times," said Steve Limberg, director of the master's of accounting program at the University of Texas. "In good times, people want to know how to manage their prosperity. In bad, they want to know how to mange their cost saving." At some schools, the job placement rates for accountants before graduation now range between 95 percent and 100 percent.

Nursing: "You're going to get a job, a good job with almost guaranteed lifelong job security," said Karen Miller, senior vice chancellor and dean of the University of Kansas School of Nursing. Starting salaries with a four-year nursing degree: About $50,000. The reason is the aging population. The job situation is similar for the other allied health professions, including occupational or physical therapy.

Pharmacy: Becoming a pharmacist requires an advanced degree. But, again, the aging population resulted in a nationwide shortage in pharmacists. That has caused first-time salaries to bulge well into the six figure. Some companies are wooing young pharmacists with offers to pay off their student loans.

Railroads: Conductors, brakemen, electricians, signalmen, locomotive engineers, track workers: all are in high demand in the railroad industry, which in recent years has started booming again as gas prices have risen and the industry itself has experienced a number of retirements. Higher fuel costs, and decreased consumer spending, have cut into the growth of the business within the last year. But in the last four years, BNSF Railway alone brought on more than 15,000 new employees, and it plans to bring on 2,000 more this year. Getting a railroad job is not simple. It's dangerous work. As such, employers place a premium on steady, safety-conscious employees. Many apply. For the few chosen, the pay is good around $65,000 a year.

McClatchy Newspapers

Tax Tips to Close out 2008

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:32:27 -0600

Before December 31st arrives take advantage of some year end financial housekeeping, here are some opportunities that will pay rich dividends.

1. Get rid of your losers. If you have duds in your stock portfolio you may want get rid of them now, says Patrick Rogan a CPA and an associate accounting professor at Consumnes River College in Sacramento California. If they are not good companies , you may as well take the capital gains loss in 2008, if they are good companies like GE you may want hold and ride them out until good times reemerge. Please note however the maximum you can take in net capitol gains losses per year is $3,000 dollars. To figure out if you should sell some poor performing stocks, total your capital gains for the year, then subtract any losses. If the total is less than $3,000 consider selling some additional low performing investments to reach that limit.

2. Roll the Dice. If you are betting tax rates will go up, and with Senor Obama in charge that is a very good wager, collect then any year end bonuses or client payments now. This way the extra income will be taxed at this years rate. If you are George Soros and are counting on tax rates getting reduced, defer that late year income after Jan 1.

3. Jump start your payments. Speed up payments on bills that are tax deductible. For example pay the second half of your property taxes (due April 10) with your January mortgage payment, plus your fourth quarter estimated state income tax payment (due Jan 15th if self employed). Next month's college tuition bill can also be deducted.

4. Give till it hurts. When dropping off donations always pick up a receipt and tally up the approximate value for tax purposes. If cash is your preferred gift be sure to keep a bank statement, credit card bill or receipt showing the date and contribution amount. Remember www.salvationarmyusa.com they maintain a list of tax deductible prices on everything from handbags to house wares, and you can not find a more reputable charity. Remember it is better to give than receive, keep up the good work and Merry Christmas everyone!!!! 803-917-1893 www.troyott.com

(select quotes from mcclatchy newspaper corp.)

Columbia, SC - The Hub of the Alternative Energy Industry?

Troy Ott (Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 11:39:09 -0600

This just in from the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce:

As odd as that may seem, South Carolina is stacking up very well in this new emerging industry. Of the several different types of alternative energy, solar energy is receiving a good ole South Carolina welcome. Due to the versatility, reliability, and the availability of tax credits, solar energy is no longer the "feel good" environmental alternative, but a fiscally responsible choice for all homeowners, businessowners, government agencies, manufacturing andc ommercial sectors of our local economy.

Traditionally, populous states like California, Colorado, New Jersey, and Florida have led the nation in solar energy installations. This is in part due to the high utility cost that customers must face in tho;sestates. South Carolina has been spared from this trend because our utility rates are among the lowest in the United States. But that is changing and customers don't have to look far to realize the effects of these higher utility rates. Because South Carolina has no real fossil fuel producing or refining capabilities, our utilities must import these resources. Approximately, 95% of our oil, coal and natural gas all must be imported from other states or nations to satisfy our basic need to heat homes, power manufacturing plants, and keep our infrastructure operations. Our lack of energy independence, not only on a national level, but a state level must be addressed.

Why not utilize one of our most rudimentary resources-the sun? I don't have to try too hard to convince many of you that Columbia, South Carolina is "Famously Hot" for one reason; the gracious amount of sunshine this town receives is one resource that we can use to shift our energy dependence to energy independence. By installing a solar energy system on your home, office building or manufacturingplant you are insulating yourself tom the inevitable rise of utility costs. Instead of quarterly and even monthly rate increases from the utilities, a solar energy system produces electricity, or heat, but keeps the price you pay constant for the life of the system, now rated to last up to 40 years. Oh, did I mention that solar energy systems have no moving parts and are maintenance free?

Well, solar energy systems are to expensive.

Well, not really. Tax credits, property values, and net metering programs make the cost of any solar energy system very reasonable. Currently, in the State of South Carolina, your business can take a 25% tax credit for the total installation of a solar energy system up to $3,500. Add an additional 30% from Uncle Sam, with no maximum credit amount. Non-profit organizations can take advantage of a special loan program offered by the South Carolina Energy Office. The Energy Office administers a program called ConserFund, which lends 100% of the cost of a solar energy system between $25,000 and $100,000 at a low interest rate, this program applies to municipal governments as well.