Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
Top 10 Tips and Advice on Everything Real Estate
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Mar 08, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Buying a home for the first time can be complex. To avoid mistakes and make a smart purchase, do the homework and know what to expect. To help start the process, HGTV's FrontDoor.com identifies the top 10 important points every first-time buyer must know.
http://www.frontdoor.com/Buy/Top-10-Tips-and-Advice-on-Everything-Real-Estate/868
http://www.frontdoor.com/Buy/Top-10-Tips-and-Advice-on-Everything-Real-Estate/868
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Go Green
-
10 Ways to Help Your Watershed
A clean and well-managed watershed doesn't just mean clean drinking water. Do your part to keep land and water clean and you could reap financial benefits too. Read
-
Plant Trees To Save Energy and Grow Value
Plant a tree to add value to your home and have a positive impact on the environment. Read
-
3 Small Steps to More Sustainable Living
Making little lifestyle changes will do a lot to enhance sustainability for the planet--and make every day Earth Day. Read
-
Green Cleaning Products for the Kitchen
Going green in the kitchen doesn't mean going broke as long as you choose the right green cleaning products for your countertops and appliances. Read
-
Start a Community Garden: Get the Community Involved
Sow a community garden to save money on produce, eat better, and build relationships with neighbors. Read
Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.
Copyright 2010 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Tax Credits for Replacing Heating and Cooling Systems
Tax Credits for Replacing Heating and Cooling Systems
Article From HouseLogic.com
By: Suzanne Cosgrove
Published: September 21, 2009
Upgrading to an energy-efficient heating and cooling system can save hundreds on your utility bills and earn you a tax credit worth as much as $1,500.
Replacing an aging heating and cooling system can save you money over time. According to Energy Star, a federal program that promotes energy efficiency, about half of what the average household spends on energy bills goes toward heating and cooling.
Upgrading your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to energy-efficient units can cut utility costs by about 20%, or $200 annually, on average. A tax credit for heating and cooling systems can make the project more affordable.
This type of home improvement doesn't come cheap. Prices vary widely based on where you live, unit specifications, and the condition of your home, but figure a high-efficiency furnace will start at around $3,500, including installation, estimates Corbett Lunsford, executive director of Chicago-based Green Dream Group. A standard furnace may cost $2,400. To help offset the price difference, the IRS allows a tax credit worth up to $1,500 on eligible HVAC systems put into service during 2009 or 2010. Consult a tax adviser.
Pay attention to efficiency ratings
To earn an Energy Star rating, furnaces must be more efficient than standard units, with annual fuel utilization efficiency ratings, or AFUE, of 85% for oil furnaces and 90% for gas furnaces. The Energy Star seal of approval alone isn't enough to garner the federal tax credit. Credit-eligible (http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index#c3) gas furnaces (either natural gas or propane) must have AFUE ratings of 95% or greater; oil furnaces, 90%. A boiler must have an AFUE of 90%.
Heating by burning a fuel is inherently inefficient. Simply put, high-efficiency furnaces have components that are better designed to get more heat out of the combustion process, Lunsford says. You'll need to hire an HVAC contractor to calculate the size of the equipment needed for your home. Beware bidders who take a one-size-furnace-fits-all approach. Air source heat pumps (http://energystar.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/energystar.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=5799) and advanced main circulating fans can also qualify for the $1,500 tax credit.
Technically, a homeowner could replace either a furnace or a central air-conditioning unit and be eligible for the tax credit. Practically speaking, you probably will have to replace both for the A/C to qualify, says Enesta Jones, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most homes have split systems made up of an outdoor condenser and compressor that are connected to an indoor air handler that's part of the furnace. Split systems must have a SEER rating of at least 16 and an EER rating of at least 13. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the unit. A package A/C system, which houses all of its components outdoors, requires lower ratings.
HVAC's value goes beyond savings
It typically takes about a decade's worth of energy savings to recoup the investment in a new HVAC system, Lunsford says, though that time frame can vary greatly depending on how much fuel prices fluctuate. Less apparent in dollar terms are increasing the comfort level in your home and lowering your household's drain on non-renewable fossil fuels. Then there's the effect on your home's value when it comes time to sell.
You're going to enhance a home's salability by moving to a more energy-efficient heating and cooling system, says Frank Lesh, president of Home Sweet Home Inspection Co. in Indian Head Park, Ill. That doesn't mean adding a $5,000 furnace will add $5,000 to the sale price. Rather, potential buyers are less likely to push for repairs or negotiate a credit if the HVAC is in good shape. Evaluate systems older than 10 years for possible replacement.
But before you do, conduct a wider energy audit (http://www.houselogic.com/articles/conduct-your-own-energy-audit/) of your home. Lunsford, also manager of consumer education for the U.S. Green Building Council's Chicago Chapter, says he rarely recommends replacing a furnace as the first step in making a home more energy efficient. Instead, start by sealing it against air leaks. Do-it-yourself caulking and weather-stripping help, as does adding insulation in the attic. Professional air sealing, which is more effective, can cost as much as $5,000 for a large house, he says. The payoff: Energy costs should go down, and you might be able to get by with a smaller HVAC system.
Getting tax credit for your upgrades
The federal energy tax credit is based on 30% of the cost of an eligible HVAC system. Installation charges count too. A $5,000 bill would max out the credit. You'll need to owe more in taxes than you're trying to claim in credits to qualify. Use IRS Form 5695. Save receipts for your records, as well as manufacturers' certification statements. If part of a new HVAC system qualifies for the credit but another part doesn't, ask the contractor to itemize the receipt.
The tax credit is aggregated for all qualifying energy upgrades-insulation, roofs, windows, and so on-so you can't claim separate $1,500 credits for each project. Only improvements to your existing primary residence count. New homes and second homes are excluded.
This article provides general information about tax laws and consequences, but is not intended to be relied upon by readers as tax or legal advice applicable to particular transactions or circumstances. Readers should consult a tax professional for such advice, and are reminded that tax laws may vary by jurisdiction.
Suzanne Cosgrove, who spent nine years as an editor at the Chicago Tribune, has written for a number of business and real estate publications. She has a 90-year-old house and a long list of home-improvement projects.
Article From HouseLogic.com
By: Suzanne Cosgrove
Published: September 21, 2009
Upgrading to an energy-efficient heating and cooling system can save hundreds on your utility bills and earn you a tax credit worth as much as $1,500.
Replacing an aging heating and cooling system can save you money over time. According to Energy Star, a federal program that promotes energy efficiency, about half of what the average household spends on energy bills goes toward heating and cooling.
Upgrading your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to energy-efficient units can cut utility costs by about 20%, or $200 annually, on average. A tax credit for heating and cooling systems can make the project more affordable.
This type of home improvement doesn't come cheap. Prices vary widely based on where you live, unit specifications, and the condition of your home, but figure a high-efficiency furnace will start at around $3,500, including installation, estimates Corbett Lunsford, executive director of Chicago-based Green Dream Group. A standard furnace may cost $2,400. To help offset the price difference, the IRS allows a tax credit worth up to $1,500 on eligible HVAC systems put into service during 2009 or 2010. Consult a tax adviser.
Pay attention to efficiency ratings
To earn an Energy Star rating, furnaces must be more efficient than standard units, with annual fuel utilization efficiency ratings, or AFUE, of 85% for oil furnaces and 90% for gas furnaces. The Energy Star seal of approval alone isn't enough to garner the federal tax credit. Credit-eligible (http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index#c3) gas furnaces (either natural gas or propane) must have AFUE ratings of 95% or greater; oil furnaces, 90%. A boiler must have an AFUE of 90%.
Heating by burning a fuel is inherently inefficient. Simply put, high-efficiency furnaces have components that are better designed to get more heat out of the combustion process, Lunsford says. You'll need to hire an HVAC contractor to calculate the size of the equipment needed for your home. Beware bidders who take a one-size-furnace-fits-all approach. Air source heat pumps (http://energystar.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/energystar.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=5799) and advanced main circulating fans can also qualify for the $1,500 tax credit.
Technically, a homeowner could replace either a furnace or a central air-conditioning unit and be eligible for the tax credit. Practically speaking, you probably will have to replace both for the A/C to qualify, says Enesta Jones, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most homes have split systems made up of an outdoor condenser and compressor that are connected to an indoor air handler that's part of the furnace. Split systems must have a SEER rating of at least 16 and an EER rating of at least 13. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the unit. A package A/C system, which houses all of its components outdoors, requires lower ratings.
HVAC's value goes beyond savings
It typically takes about a decade's worth of energy savings to recoup the investment in a new HVAC system, Lunsford says, though that time frame can vary greatly depending on how much fuel prices fluctuate. Less apparent in dollar terms are increasing the comfort level in your home and lowering your household's drain on non-renewable fossil fuels. Then there's the effect on your home's value when it comes time to sell.
You're going to enhance a home's salability by moving to a more energy-efficient heating and cooling system, says Frank Lesh, president of Home Sweet Home Inspection Co. in Indian Head Park, Ill. That doesn't mean adding a $5,000 furnace will add $5,000 to the sale price. Rather, potential buyers are less likely to push for repairs or negotiate a credit if the HVAC is in good shape. Evaluate systems older than 10 years for possible replacement.
But before you do, conduct a wider energy audit (http://www.houselogic.com/articles/conduct-your-own-energy-audit/) of your home. Lunsford, also manager of consumer education for the U.S. Green Building Council's Chicago Chapter, says he rarely recommends replacing a furnace as the first step in making a home more energy efficient. Instead, start by sealing it against air leaks. Do-it-yourself caulking and weather-stripping help, as does adding insulation in the attic. Professional air sealing, which is more effective, can cost as much as $5,000 for a large house, he says. The payoff: Energy costs should go down, and you might be able to get by with a smaller HVAC system.
Getting tax credit for your upgrades
The federal energy tax credit is based on 30% of the cost of an eligible HVAC system. Installation charges count too. A $5,000 bill would max out the credit. You'll need to owe more in taxes than you're trying to claim in credits to qualify. Use IRS Form 5695. Save receipts for your records, as well as manufacturers' certification statements. If part of a new HVAC system qualifies for the credit but another part doesn't, ask the contractor to itemize the receipt.
The tax credit is aggregated for all qualifying energy upgrades-insulation, roofs, windows, and so on-so you can't claim separate $1,500 credits for each project. Only improvements to your existing primary residence count. New homes and second homes are excluded.
This article provides general information about tax laws and consequences, but is not intended to be relied upon by readers as tax or legal advice applicable to particular transactions or circumstances. Readers should consult a tax professional for such advice, and are reminded that tax laws may vary by jurisdiction.
Suzanne Cosgrove, who spent nine years as an editor at the Chicago Tribune, has written for a number of business and real estate publications. She has a 90-year-old house and a long list of home-improvement projects.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
GO GREEN
-
10 Ways to Help Your Watershed
A clean and well-managed watershed doesn't just mean clean drinking water. Do your part to keep land and water clean and you could reap financial benefits too. Read
-
Plant Trees To Save Energy and Grow Value
Plant a tree to add value to your home and have a positive impact on the environment. Read
-
3 Small Steps to More Sustainable Living
Making little lifestyle changes will do a lot to enhance sustainability for the planet--and make every day Earth Day. Read
-
Green Cleaning Products for the Kitchen
Going green in the kitchen doesn't mean going broke as long as you choose the right green cleaning products for your countertops and appliances. Read
-
Start a Community Garden: Get the Community Involved
Sow a community garden to save money on produce, eat better, and build relationships with neighbors. Read
Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.
Copyright 2010 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
School Reports
You can use this site to find school reports ...
http://www.homefair.com/real-estate/school-reports/index.asp?cc=1
http://www.homefair.com/real-estate/school-reports/index.asp?cc=1
Monday, January 11, 2010
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Elder Cottage Available
Elder Cottage Available
Better Housing for Tompkins County anticipates having a vacancy in its Elder Cottage Lease Program and is encouraging applications from eligible older adults and their families.
Better Housing rents small, modular homes to income-eligible seniors (60 and older) who wish to have them installed temporarily next to the family home of one of their adult children or other supportive relative living in Tompkins County, outside the City of Ithaca.
The elder cottage concept enables seniors to continue living independently with the support and security offer by family living nearby. The accessibility and other design features of these one-bedroom modular ranch homes also help the resident to be able to continue aging in place should they at some point have mobility impairments.
“The program is very popular with the seniors who use it, ” explains Andrew Piliero, Property Manager at Better Housing. “It brings families closer while allowing seniors to live independently.”
Income limits apply, and sites for the Cottages must meet requirements. To view details, please visit www.betterhousingtc.org. For information on the application process, call David Stoyell at the Tompkins County Office for the Aging, 274-5492.
Better Housing for Tompkins County anticipates having a vacancy in its Elder Cottage Lease Program and is encouraging applications from eligible older adults and their families.
Better Housing rents small, modular homes to income-eligible seniors (60 and older) who wish to have them installed temporarily next to the family home of one of their adult children or other supportive relative living in Tompkins County, outside the City of Ithaca.
The elder cottage concept enables seniors to continue living independently with the support and security offer by family living nearby. The accessibility and other design features of these one-bedroom modular ranch homes also help the resident to be able to continue aging in place should they at some point have mobility impairments.
“The program is very popular with the seniors who use it, ” explains Andrew Piliero, Property Manager at Better Housing. “It brings families closer while allowing seniors to live independently.”
Income limits apply, and sites for the Cottages must meet requirements. To view details, please visit www.betterhousingtc.org. For information on the application process, call David Stoyell at the Tompkins County Office for the Aging, 274-5492.
Monday, July 06, 2009
Unique Village of Trumansburg Home
Historic (on the National Register of Historic Places ... no restrictions), all brick, 2nd Empire Victorian home located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of NY State. Home features 4 fireplaces (2 Eastlake granite). Twelve foot ceilings and refinished wood floors throughout; double door entrance to foyer with grand view of curved front staircase, back stairway off of kitchen. Enjoy dining on the deck, slate patio or back porch. Distinguished front/side wrap-around porch. Large corner lot. Paved driveway. Third floor, walk up, attic with over 1900 square feet is ready to be finished into bedrooms, exercise area, au pair or guest suite. Renovated by current owner within the past 8 years. Some of the many upgrades include: maple, shaker cabinets in kitchen with granite counter tops, gas heating stove with granite accents & blower, dishwasher, convection oven and convection microwave, refrigerator with ice maker & water dispenser, existing baths entirely re-done, added extra full bath with whirlpool tub and separate shower (Kohlr & American Standard fixtures); new Certainteed roof, new Weil-McLain gas boiler with four zones; cemented most of the basement floor; 5 Runtal radiators added in bath, laundry & guest room; Master bedroom features, double door entrance, fireplace, bay window area, walk-in closet (The Closet Factory) and separate full bath; 2nd bedroom has slate fireplace .... Owner licensed Real Estate Agent.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Lansing Location
Lansing Location and Private. Classic Cape with beautiful gardens, location is extremely convenient. Nice four bedroom, two bath, custom kitchen, warm honey tone hardwood floors, large 14 x 26 family room leads to landscaped Rose garden & a peaceful walk thru flowering perennials. Wood stove, formal dining, office, guest room, garage/shop. Enjoy the morning on your private deck-birds, flowers. A very well maintained home priced right.
1) Master bedroom curtains-(DNC) as well as bookshelves. 2) Garden-plants with white/markers-(Do not Convey), sellers will leave a most generous portion & names/care if wanted. (gardens are over raised septic system).
DIRECTIONS/HOUSE COLOR: Rt. 13 (from Ithaca left on Warren Road) past Tompkins County Regional Airport, public safety building & Borg Warner - house on left. Color White.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
