Eco-SavvySmartHomes

A good sign of recovery…Land is in demand!

2012-09-15T20:01:00.000-04:00

Reuters recently announced investors are cashing-in, in the most depressed housing markets in the U.S. Now there is high demand on land deals in areas like the outskirts of Vegas to the coast of California, stretches of undeveloped land already showing Home Prices climbing and signs of Fed Boosts Recovery.

Money managers bought at the lowest prices during bankruptcy proceedings, from cash-strapped home developers and banks that seized the properties after foreclosing on them when builders ran out of money. They held on to these tracts of land and waited for the right moment to cash-in. They are now reselling the land to investors for returns in excess of 20 percent (ROI), and this appears to be the right time since homes sales are rising, foreclosures are slowing down and lowest interest rates remain steady.
In addition, some of these investors are even looking to partner with home builders to develop the tracts. Others are still waiting before re-selling to buyers. A Money manager of the Paulson & Co portfolio, the Paulson Real Estate Recovery fund, which has under $500 million in assets for the $19.5 billion hedge fund, is of the opinion that "Land is the highest returning component of the home building equation." …And that applies to other areas that were hit hard after the housing bubble burst. Is it also happening in South Florida tri-county areas?

Broward county has in excess of 130 miles of inland waterways. Regardless of the fact that there is limited amount of available land, a significant “rehab”construction is also on the upswing as applications for building permits are on the rise. Though building new homes is more lucrative, it could take years to build them, and rehabbing can be done in a few months. Also as foreclosures slow down, investors are rushing in to raise money to buy foreclosed homes from the nation's banks and then rent them out. They’re being cautious as the housing market is improving but we’re not quite there yet.
One thing is for sure, there is going to be land shortage coming out of the downturn. Investing in Florida, Arizona, Nevada, Texas and California, Colorado in some form of distressed sale is already having very successful ROI already with a greater potential. Ross Perot Jr's Dallas-based investment firm, Hillwood Development, is one early buyer of land now cashing-in on its bet thanks to signs of a revival in housing markets in Nevada, California, Texas and Florida. During the recession, Hillwood bought shovel-ready land from cash strapped home builders. Lennar to Beazer Homes and DR Horton show signs that it's evidence of a housing recovery starting to get its legs.

Looking For A Estate Manager?...

2012-03-01T17:55:00.001-05:00

Management Assist Services ~ Fort Lauderdale, FL, U.S.A.

Administrative Estate Manager ~ Job Description and Functions:

Administrative Estate Manager is a widely used term in Upscale Homes, and Property management services. The estate manager is a qualified and licensed professional who performs a variety of financial operations, works directly with the owners as their “right-hand person” handling any request or need efficiently. The A.E.M. plans and executes the overall management of property and set appropriate service standard. Their main function is to assist the estate owners in maintaining their most effective budgetary parameters.

The M.A.S., estate manager, oversees the overall upkeep of the premises and keeps balance within a budget on a monthly and yearly basis and in the preparation of accurate accounting reports year-to-date and at year-end. Unlike accountants, who tend to serve as financial planners and tax guides of long-term finances, the M.A.S. estate manager encompasses day-to-day financial operations, as well as all of the legwork, compiling the paperwork, screening vendors, research and hiring of service personnel, coordinating telephone and in-person service schedules, a “buffer” in sensitive discussions between the estate owner and potential employees and other service contractors. Conduct impartial and very candid questions about personal items and salary negotiations, helping get to the point right away.

Management Assist Services local all-year round and seasonal residents as well as absentee owners of the Fort Lauderdale yachting and coastal communities. Our clients count on our thorough knowledge, contacts and suitable resources in these areas, our highest ethical standards and confidentiality agreement added to our expertise and impeccable reputation.

What You Need to Know about Estate Managers..

Environment

Estate Managers are common in households of 5,000-15,000 square feet and larger, including estates with multiple properties, extensive grounds, elaborate structures, sometimes with complex technology.

In South Florida, a number of these properties are historic, modern contemporary, and re-modeled or re-designed estates in a variety of architectural styles. Each,with its own unique settings, and various designs and features requiring ongoing and seasonal upkeep. Including structural, enhancive and safety features. Estates built in deep-water,

ocean access canals, along the shoreline and on dry lots,

involving timely and specialized maintenance.

Functions

The Estate Manager is dedicated to the financial functions necessary for a smooth running of the estate on behalf of the estate owners. He or she works directly with the owners to plan and execute the overall management of property and services. Where there are large or multiple homes, the Estate Manager’s responsibility is that of carrying out the wishes of the owner at each location.

The Estate Manager typically set the service standard and the administrative functions relate to financial matters including accounting, budgets, Inventory and payroll. The EM’s level of “hands-on” involvement is strictly as office based administrator. However, based on the size of the property the Estate Manager may perform other administrative tasks. If required, the EM would conduct direct communications with the staff or contractors, for additional projects involving the estate.

Common tasks include screening and overseeing vendors, contractors, construction projects, maintenance of pools, landscaping, autos, yachts, private planes, etc. With multiple properties, most EM’s at M.A.S. may travel ahead of their employer to get a property ready for their arrival and bring the staff up to speed on any necessary changes or service requirements. An Estate Manager may also be called upon to plan and execute events for the owner. This could range from simple vacation travel arrangements for the family to handling special construction projects of the estate.

Qualifications

Our top Estate Manager, is one of the most well rounded workers that can be found anywhere. Important abilities include:

•Highest level of personal service experience with private families and/or individuals.

•Well educated in luxury items such as fine art and antiques.

•Proper social etiquette and cultural knowledge.

•Acute business skills in areas of finance, computers, home planning, and organization.

•Human resources management.

•Leadership and motivation skills.

•Independent and team project management.

•Creative and intuitive thinking and problem solving.

•Very resourceful.

•Negotiating skills.

We, at Management Assist Services, believe that above all, our seasoned estate manager, allow us to be truly “in synch” with our clients and the environment. Adaptive to their standards and desires, our service is not limited to the execution of plans and tasks demanded of us. Our vast experience, knowledge and a specialty in waterfront and coastal properties is an added asset to property owners, second to none in the estate management services.

Compensation

Compensation range for Estate Managers - Compensation is subject to discussion as each estate has its own set of requirements, it is preferable and recommended to discuss compensation after the owner’s parameters are specifically outlined, in order to arrive to a more precise agreement. Management Assist Services arrange a confidential meeting with our potential clients to see how we can best fulfill their requirements.

Terms of Service

Management Assist Services, offer flexible plans for those estates that do not require full time management, but rather a general overview and tracking on the financial status of their estates. We have been servicing out-of-town owners, permanent residents and seasonal clients on a regular basis and also with intermittent frequency. On a monthly and yearly basis. We avail manual, computerized bookkeeping and record keeping and online reporting.

We are fully prepared to provide service to our clients, at the client’s premises or at our office facility. We respect our clients’ privacy of this relationship and keep all conversations and experiences confidential.

References

Licensed in the State of Florida since 1984.

Personal and business references upon request.

Management Assist Services

Daily Money Manager Services

2011-11-05T08:35:00.000-04:00

Daily Money Managers Can Relieve You of Day-to-Day Financial Chores
By Isabel Waters Lic.,Real Estate Property Consultant

If you don't have the time to devote to the daily financial duties required by your small business, or to your personal finances, you might want to consider the services of a daily money manager.
Daily money management is a relatively young spectrum of the financial services industry, and encompasses day-to-day financial duties such as managing payables and payroll, depositing checks, reconciliation of bank and other accounts statements, and ensuring that your ledger is balanced. Unlike accountants, who tend to serve as financial planners and guides, daily money managers do the day-to-day financial legwork that not only keep your business running but also simplifies the tedious year end reports to your CPA.

A money manager can keep track of all of your financial documents and help you gather them for tax time or just for your own business knowledge. Knowing how your money is being spent at all times, helps productivity and also to better plan what works best for you and your business.

If you need to negotiate with creditors or make calls to handle billing disputes, you’ll be ready for it, by keeping up-to-date and accurate records, your daily money manager can help out doing this chore for you as well.

Daily money managers work with clients to set up operating accounts that will be used for paying bills, making payroll and taking care of other regular financial obligations. Once this account is set up and the money manager reviews your monthly obligations, schedule payments to vendors are made so you don’t have to wait to make adjustments later rather than when need to be. In today’s economy, it is a priority to find the way(s) to use your money wisely, and you won't have to get involved with overwhelming paperwork. Your money manager will also take care of payroll duties, making sure checks are cut at the appropriate times and funds are in place. If you work with independent contractors, the system can be set up to follow up on the contractors bills so they can get paid on schedule. You won't have to spend your time tackling that paperwork, it will be all there, up-to-date and for your review.

You'll also determine with your money manager where funds for running the account are going to come from. Whether you'll deposit a set amount per month electronically or instruct the money manager to make arrangements to cover expenses, the point is that once you give the money manager the direction, you don't have to worry about the actual financial chores. Once establishing how it's going to be done, and when it's going to be done then clients don't have to do anything else but to see their current financial status at all times.

The money manager will submit to you monthly reports substantiated and bank reconciled, that explains what was paid to whom. Reports are also categorized expenses so you're constantly kept abreast of your business's financial health. You will also be ready for the year end tax preparation at a significant savings.

Small businesses that don't have the money to pay for a full-time financial staffer can still benefit from this service. Most daily money managers charge between $35 and $100 per hour, depending on the geographic region they service. e.g., sole proprietors that travel can benefit from the services of a daily money manager because he or she doesn't have to worry about paying bills late as a result of extended absences from the office. Scheduled hours per/mo.varies as an average of 2 to 10 hours. In today’s business environment, let technology work for you to see the state of your finances year-to-date. Business owners know that maintaining control of their business's finances without the expense of having to pay a full time employee to execute it, find that daily money manager, give them that freedom hold onto the control, but hand off the execution, freeing yourself to focus on other aspects of growing your business.

Request FREE report on How This Service Works, at watersrealestate@comcast.net or contact our local phone#: (954) 761-8514 - A licensed Real Estate Management Professional.

What is Your Best Option? PART III

2011-11-03T10:53:00.000-04:00

Fee or Commission?

Find Here a few examples:

Hourly Rate ~ Scheduled Services with a Limited number of hours

Sellers – When they do the marketing of their home themselves, run ads, post signs, flyers, open houses, show the home and find a buyer who wants to write up an offer. This is a crucial point to begin negotiations that hopefully, conclude in a successful closing. In order to do that, the seller finds negotiating for getting the most out of the transaction has to be balanced, and is not sure what action to take, and more if the buyer has no representation. This can become the “blind leading the blind!” Sellers, unknowingly let go of opportunities that could have been workable for both parties, because they have no idea of what to do next. And if the other party has representation, it can be overwhelming in trying to negotiate against a pro, who does it all the time.

Sellers – who have a standing offer even before marketing their home. Could be someone at work, friend or other family members, who heard the seller is contemplating the sale of their home, and just point blank propose to buy the home. This is where a small payment can save you a ton of cash. Sellers who have procured their own buyer need an agent to provide the negotiating, and troubleshooting the transaction in order to ensure the Seller doesn’t encounter any costly surprises, and the property closes on schedule.

Sellers – who request functionary services only, like marketing plans, including photography, videos, floor plans, and featured packaged materials to give out to buyers, including internet, do it to create more exposure. While most people have access to these tools, an agent is certainly equipped and has the know-how to perform such tasks better and faster, and it is usually worth the cost. Since internet presence is extremely important nowadays, an agent can provide a website at a monthly fee for the duration the home is on the market. It is professionally done and it looks official. Many agents are willing to provide these services with the understanding that if they procure a buyer, they will be paid the buyer-side fee.

Buyers – Who prefer to pay their agent themselves and have the money go against the offered co-broke on the property they decide to buy.

Buyers – whether it’s their first home purchase or seasoned home buyers, even investors

who in different stages of their transaction, see the value of an agent in the negotiating and troubleshooting and do not have the time it takes to go from contract to closing.

Flat Fee ~ Bundle of Services

Flat fees have long been associated with limited services to the MLS Entry only, it has proven to be unsucessful more often than not to Sellers. If you want to be included in any multiple listing service, be sure that you bundle it with the negotiating and troubleshooting services of a pro. Many of my clients expressed they don’t want to ever go that road again.

A bundle of services is structured to include vital fiduciary services. A good venue for those sellers who prefer to pay a non-contingent flat fee rather than a commission, who do not have the time to play real estate agent, and what they want is to forego the high cost of paying for an outcome. These services can be very elaborate and include everything that a seller would typically get with a commission, all except the insurance policy. On average, those who choose a full service package net a higher sales price for their property and their market time decreases.

Other bundle of services are also designed to reach at middle ground. The most important aspect is all the fiduciary services remain, with limited functionary (paperwork) and marketing utilized strategically. The choices are only limited to what is mutually agreed by seller and consultant.

Fees vary according to market conditions and determining how many hours it takes to complete various tasks, adding in material costs and a fair and reasonable profit. To get an idea of the savings, an expert consultant charges $150. per hour and it is capped at 6 hours. An average time to negotiate and troubleshoot a transaction. If it takes the 6 hours, seller pays $900. Compare that amount to even a discounted commission, it is still a much better proposition for having received expert quality services with full fiduciary services.

Commission ~ Traditional Services

We all know the many commission packages offered on the market place, and also its variations on different locations. However, there are certain circumstances where paying a commission makes more sense. Like when a seller is not 100% sure that they want to sell the home and are just testing the market, the price doesn’t matter if a non-contingent fee will not work for the seller. When selling a lower priced property or condo, the commission is less because the costs associated with the various tasks remain the same, whether they market a $30,000. condo or a $500,000. home. Under certain sale prices, the seller actually, pay less when paying by commission.

I can go on with examples, and at the end of the day.. It is all about freedom of choices to use alternatives methods that save you money.

FEES FOR SERVICE - PART II

2011-10-27T12:59:00.000-04:00

PART II - FEES-FOR-SERVICE AND HOURLY COMPENSATION

You Can Save Money Without Being Discounted!... In real estate, quality representation is essential for keeping the most money in your pocket when you close. Is that mean that you’re locked into paying a commission in order to get that quality? The answer is NO.

My advise to potential clients is to explore and weight different options, based on their individual needs and comfort level. Many consumers find the traditional commission is their best choice. Hopefully, they make that choice because it’s the best option, not because it’s the only option. Find out which one may be better for you!..

Before going into some of the different compensation choices you may want to consider, it is important to look at what is involved when you pay for real estate consulting services by the hour or by a flat fee. When paying a flat fee or by the hour for real estate services, you can save a lot of money. Unlike using a discount agent who agrees to cut their commission, you don’t have to sacrifice the number or the quality of service you receive.

By choosing a flat fee for a bundle of services, or paying by the hour, you’re receiving and paying for only the services or time received, Not a guaranteed outcome. By the same token, you don’t have to pay a premium for that guarantee (commission paid when the house sells is what makes this method of compensation so expensive to the consumer). When you pay a specialist in any industry, A CPA, Attorney, Title Company, Inspectors, no matter how skilled they are, they cannot control the outcome, and still get paid, they’re paid for services rendered regardless of the outcome. The paradigm that Real Estate professionals have traditionally been paid contingent on an outcome, does no longer produce the desired results, numbers count and if they don’t add up, and create profitable transactions for consumers, it defeats its purpose as they can no longer control the outcome.

WHAT IF THE AGENT DOESN’T DO A GOOD JOB?

By that reasoning, you would have to question whether any service provider would do a good job if their pay was not contingent on the outcome. The fact remains, that you don’t have a guarantee with any services you receive. Asking for credentials, experience, their ethical conduct, getting testimonials, or a referral from someone you trust. A face to face meeting will show a greater scope of their skills and knowledge. Your objective is to find the agent who can walk you through the process with confidence, dedication and know how to achieve the results you expect.

Again, it is not for everyone, some people are risk-aversive, they’re better off paying a traditional commission, than paying for real estate services in a non-contingent basis. Yet, there are a growing number of consumers, with understanding that the outcome is not controlled by the agent, who are willing to forego the guarantee and pay a lot less by fee, while still getting quality services and counsel.

I often work with domestic and overseas clients, and have developed compensation alternatives very suitable to them. The end result is very satisfactory, as I can offer choices than otherwise, would have brought transactions to a halt. The very nature of real estate is a dynamic flow, for it to be a healthy market. In today’s real estate, consumers are not given the alternative choices, existing delays exacerbate the already sluggish and motionless real estate activity. The real estate industry is very resistant to change, often portrayed as a “me to” industry with over a million realtors, all doing the same thing. There is nothing written in stone, that says real estate services have to be paid by commission and commission only. Yet, the merry-go-round of parties continues because that’s the way they’ve always done it.

I decided that to compete in this arena, and in order to seek out my client’s common interests, I would have a different value proposition to offer consumers. Those

who see my role as an agent focusing on their needs, rather than trying to sell them a service not suitable to them, or commit them for long periods of time, see the value of my services.

There is no right or wrong choice, when looking at the three choices, hourly rate, flat fee or traditional commission. As in the legal profession, different choices work in different scenarios. It’s the same in real estate, because consumers have different needs and comfort levels. It has been said for over a decade that consulting was going to be the wave of the future. The truth of the matter is that one size does not fit all, reason why Waters Real Estate offers those three choices to our clients: traditional (percentage) commission, a fee-for-service schedule, and an hourly rate.

In the meantime, don’t be hesitant to seek out good agents and ask if they (and their brokers) would be willing to offer options on how they get compensated for whatever services are required. Be aware of those agents who are not prepared for real estate consulting and have never thought about doing real estate in any way other than the traditional sales model. If you, as a consumer, need to sell your home, you may not have time for an agent to learn consulting services, so speak to an agent about what services you need and how you might like to pay for them.

Please bear in mind ~

Buying or Selling a home is unlike any other service, and not to make that decision lightly or based on third parties online who claim to be experts in real estate. The one advantage that true industry specialists have is they know that every home, neighborhood and transaction are unique, and value can only be quantified by comparison. Even the most die-hard consumer can reap the benefits of having an expert agent to help them succeed in their real estate pursuits. Without complete market knowledge of a given home and its neighborhood, it is anyone's guess whether the seller sold for too much or too little or the buyer paid too much or too little. Only the Real Estate agent knows for sure.

More on part III - Consulting Options to Consider.

NOW...LETS TALK ABOUT REAL ESTATE CONSULTING! PART I

2011-10-26T18:20:00.000-04:00

We are all aware of the forceful changes taking place in the real estate industry…And keep waiting in hope that sooner or later it will stabilize, and everything will return to the way it was!.. playing in either the Sellers’ or the Buyers’ market, decade after decade things were somehow predictable. In Today’s Real Estate Landscape, Consumerism has yet to adapt to the new mechanism in the transaction process, still in the Traditional Sales Approach… A word to the wise!.. At this time of change, considering other Alternatives, Creative Mindsets and Models, Fulfilling and Profitable, is another way to bring back the sparkle of buying and selling real estate. The good news is that it is already Available to Property Owners, Purchasers, Investors, Renters….

What is it?.. And…How It Differs From the Traditional Real Estate Agency?

I am not talking about agents who call themselves consultants, yet still remain salespeople in practice, what I can tell you is that true consulting is a totally different model – Not a new approach, as it has been practiced by many before. By contrast, it remains a no non-sense alternative to getting the most of your real estate transaction and most importantly, contrary to limited belief, it does save you money!

A brief comparison:

The real estate Consultant is compensated for their expertise, time, and/or execution of the task. If they’re paid contingent on a guaranteed outcome (the traditional commission), it is understood by the consumer that they will be paying a premium to have this guarantee.

The real estate salesperson is only paid if and when the desired outcome (when the house sale closes) is achieved. Unfortunately, for the real estate salesperson, this outcome is one that they can influence, but cannot control.

The real estate consultant is retained and is often compensated the way other professionals providing a service or particular expertise are compensated, attorneys, title companies, appraisers, inspectors, etc.

The real estate salesperson is compensated as any other salespeople selling a product. (By the way, a consultant can also be paid a commission, if that’s what is right for their client. Essentially, a consultant provides choices, and ensure the consumer understands what it is, they are paying for).

Consulting includes a variety of skills, and can be used to reach a variety of outcomes.

Selling has one single focus – selling something.

Sometimes the best choice for a consumer is to not buy or sell at all. Or not right now. The consultant is retained and paid to provide astute counsel to help their client to reach the right (informed) decision, based on that client’s individual needs, no matter what the ultimate decision may turn out to be. It only makes sense that true consultants aim first to understand the consumer’s needs and goals before suggesting options and solutions. High pressured selling tactics have no place in the process of providing objective fiduciary counsel.

Once the consumer is provided with objective information about the purchasing and selling process and what it entails, then the consumer decide what they want and how they decide to pay for it. Provided there is a good fit between their needs and services they’re being offered, client decides to go for a variety of compensation alternatives such as an hourly rate, a flat fee for a bundle of services, or contingent-on-a-sale commission, so that they can tailor the services based on their specific needs to reach their goals.

WHO REQUIRES A CONSULTANT?

In the traditional sales model, consumers think about obtaining real estate services only when they have already made a decision to buy or sell. Consultative model real estate service and counsel is not limited to just transactions. As an example, consumers who prefer to make fast decisions, want to receive (and pay for) a few hours of objective counsel on the current real estate market, when unsure of what they want to do. In Today’s real estate, less means more. Experienced Consultants identify the consumer bottom-line and know the shortcuts to successful real estate transactions.

Who might be interested in real estate consulting?

1. Any homeowner who wants to decide whether to move or make improvements.

2. Any homebuyer who isn’t sure they’re ready to buy, but would like guidance on the current market and the buying process in their chosen area.

3. Any consumer, who doesn’t have the time to play REALTOR®, yet feels forced to go it alone if they need to save money.

4. Any consumer who has no equity or is “upside-down” in their home and requires guidance or a plan on how to approach and get the attention of their lenders/banking lnstitutions, to stay in their homes or avoid long term legal ramifications.

5. Any consumer who has ever resorted to a discount broker or a discount commission in order to save money and found out too late that they got discount service that didn’t get the job done or didn’t get it done right.

6. Any consumer who has relocated from another area and wants to know the details of their new surroundings. Usually, these consumers are very equity conscious while they also want to enjoy their homes. Whether for short or long term, they seek properties with greater potential for increased value, e.g., location desirability, demographics, improvements, taxation, curve appeal, etc.

7. Any consumer who is a first time purchaser and wants a thorough and impartial advise to their specific needs, and require full understanding of the buying process.

8. Any consumer who rents or leases, either like to purchase their current home or get information of properties on neighborhoods of their choice that meet their requirements.

9. Any experienced investor/consortium looking for income producing properties, including financial analysis and research of properties that justify their investment over a period of time.

10.Any pro-active customer who just want the agent to help them close the home.

Every consumer have different requirements and an effective and responsible real estate professional strives to offer all possible venues for the benefit of every consumer, to fulfill their needs and create win-win situations!.....

Cont’d. Part II – HOW FEES-FOR-SERVICE AND HOURLY COMPENSATION WORK?

Have a Cool Summer!

2011-06-27T14:06:00.000-04:00

I am a believer in green living and read everything and anything that will make
my life more comfortable and enjoyable. I am constantly looking for things that make a difference. Though these days, there is nothing absolutely FREE, we can improve our lifestyles and have fun at the same time, while making changes that make a big difference with the environment.

From taking shorter showers to upgrading our appliances, there are ways each day we can help Mother Earth enjoy the Summer as much as we do! Supporting your local growers by getting produce from your area's farmers'market. Also look for "grown local" fruits and vegetables at your grocers'. It may not seem a big deal but supports local commerce and reduces fuel needed for produce transport.

Our food - Grow it yourself!..growing a simple vegetable and fruit garden is easier than most think. Most of the work goes into prepping. Periodic weeding and harvesting are simple manual tasks that deliver real fruits of your "labor." Save money on your electric bill and contribute to a "new" way of living that is spreading across the country. Consider your garden as organic and natural as possible. There is a variety of natural products that will keep bugs away.

Natural bug repellants are available for humans, too! Geraniums secrete a scent that drives mosquitos away. Mix a few drops of essential oils (citronella, orange, and rose geranium) into a spray bottle of water. Use this to spray down your legs and arms before any trip outside or to the garden. Not only will you smell good, you'll be a "no bug zone."

Are you looking for ways to save on energy and fuel costs? Start with your travel habits, cars, even the most energy efficient models, consume mass amounts of gasoline, which has been refined from oil. The amount of energy and pollution that is involved in refining these products is astounding! Be organized and plan trips to the store. Carpooling or using public transit! Your city may have HOV lanes, or high occupancy vehicle lanes. This means if there is more than one person in your car, you get a free pass around the rush hour traffic! If you have a walkable city, use your legs to walk or bike.

Inside your home, you can save energy by upgrading your appliances. Newer Energy Star appliances use a fraction of the energy than their older counter parts did. You'll be surprised how much your electric bill drops in the first month! Setting your thermostat to 70-80F can reduce your bill even more. Consider fans more decorative, so far as I am concerned they consume too much electricity.

Keep your home and yard cool for years to come by planting shade trees. Trees give our environment so much. They deliver loads of oxygen, all while consuming our nasty carbon dioxide. And of course, they give us shade keeping home temperatures lower and to enjoy those evening cooling beverages.
Little habits add up to big change. Don't be too hard on yourself.
Every day is a new day. Pick one thing to change today.
Pick another next week and start a new habit. You'll be surprised
of the results at the end of Summer.

Decluttering~Home & Office

2011-03-28T12:21:00.000-04:00

Decluteering While in Spring Bloom Abundance!...
More day light, more time to re-organize our home, office, garage, even storage bins. Technology is not always the answer to saving space. In fact, if you look at computers and its paraphernalia, they take a lot of office space, even in small households. Here are some tips on physical space clearing and space saving.

1.A laptop ~ is more energy efficient, it uses about 10% energy of a desktop computer and it takes a lot less space, in fact, it doesn't even use any space if you keep it in your lap. But if you must have or need a desktop computer, consider an Energy Star-rated slim flat-screen LCD monitor, which will take up less space and use less electricity than other comparable monitors.
2. CD's ~ did you know that around the world, 1 billion discs are discarded every year? an e-waste problem. I, for one, rarely re-use any of the umpteen software CD's that I've accumulated over the years, not even counting the ones I donate to charity once a year. Why not download software instead? and upload the 'must keep' electronically, to clear up space.
3. Voice Mail ~ these free services automatically added to any phone lines in the U.S have made answering machines obsolete. According to the authors of the Green Book, if all answering machines currently used in U.S. homes were replaced by voice mail, the annual energy savings would be nearly 2 billion kilowatt-hours, equivalent to taking 250,000 cars off the road. They claim, it's simply more efficient for a centralized facility to process all that data, than to have each individual use his or her own desktop answering machine. No point on keeping One more gadget cluttering a desk.
4. Recycling Old Electronics ~ A decade or two into the information revolution, the typical household has generated a small mountain of E-waste like old televisions, VCRs, DVD players, video games, cell phones (and, uh ... answering machines). Chances are there's a drawer (or two, or three) in your home office that hold a mess of cell phones, wires and chargers. Clean it out! Electronics can be recycled, either by the manufacturer, the retailer or by community drop-off programs. Cell phone recycling is even easier: You can donate your old cell phone to charity or, if it hasn't been sitting around too long, even sell it.
5. Go Paperless ~ Except valuable documents or tax records need to be saved for a number of years, all other paper, junk mail, catalogs, old phone directories, obsolete information will only clutter desks, drawers, cabinets even dining tables. Receiving bills by email takes a little getting used to and it is best to do it gradually. The environmental impact it has to go paperless, saving paper means not only saving trees, but 171 pounds of greenhouse gases, 63 gallons of water, and 4.5 gallons of gasoline annually for the average paperless household, according to Pay It Green, a coalition of financial institutions and businesses promoting paperless billing.
6. And last, but not least ~ Stop Receiving Junk Mail ~ The average American household receives an estimated 850 pieces of junk mail every year —enough, as we all know, to cover our kitchen tables several times over.
It's no coincidence that paper makes up one-quarter of all landfill waste, or that the junk mail industry's environmental footprint is large, equivalent to the tailpipe pollution from 9 million cars. You can reclaim the calm of an uncluttered tabletop with a few keystrokes. Just register for the Mail Preference Service on the Direct Marketing Association Website. For $1, your name and address will be removed from prospective mailing lists, ending 75% of junk mail within about 90 days.
Daily Green offers very thorough and excellent advise on the subject.

By clearing physical space in home/yard and office will have a very positive effect mentally, in fact, it is a powerful way of letting go of possessions, emotions and thoughts that can keep you stuck. You will feel refreshed, light and ready to start anew!

CLICK HERE for more valuable decluttering 'pearls of wisdom', get started!

Green Home Improvements

2011-03-27T12:21:00.000-04:00

Tax Credit for 2010 on Green Home Improvements ~
As April 18^th approaches, filing tax year 2010 is the last chance for homeowners to claim a very generous tax credit to help pay for energy-efficient improvements done to their residences in 2010. A credit of up to $1,500., you might be able to take if you added insulation or installed energy-efficient exterior windows or energy-saving heating and air conditioning systems. Claim any qualifying energy improvements made last year by filing form 5695. Some of these tax breaks can save some filers a nice chunk of tax money. With others, the savings might be relatively small. But when it comes to taxes, every bit of savings helps. So make sure you don't overlook any of these possible tax breaks as you finish up your 2010 return. For more information on green home improvements GO HERE

Green DIY Energy

2011-03-18T19:38:00.000-04:00

Valuable guide for building your own solar energy ..for less than $200.
I was shocked to see how much it cost to have solar panels installed at my house! The estimate I received was over $35,000 and the payback time for that was just way too long. I certainly didn’t have that kind of money, not even close.

Then, a friend told me about the Green DIY Energy guide, and how he had learned the process of constructing 60- to 120- watt Solar Panels for under $200. In fact, You Could Actually Build One For Less Than $27 if you took the time to rebuild and connect “broken solar cells” together (which isn’t that hard to do). See this short video:

Don't miss this 3 part energy guide, with its easy to understand instructions on how to build solar panel systems, Also a FREE bonus on building your own wind turbine. After following the very clear instructions, I know it works, it saves a ton of money, it helps the environment, and reduces my energy bills by 50% or better.

I also found the process to be a lot of fun!..My friends and family were amazed at what I had created, since I'm not exactly what you call a handyman!...TRUE, if I can do it, anybody can!
GO HERE and receive your free information on Green DIY Energy.

Eco Homes

2011-03-17T18:21:00.000-04:00

Awe-inspiring Eco Homes have been around for a while, long before anyone thought of the term ‘green construction’. Hand-made houses were created with sustainability, respect for the land, and the pride of creating something by oneself as high priorities. Such hand-made houses have been around since man saw first light of day. A new wave of creativity re-emerged in the late 50’s, but as housing became standardized, built in large amounts and became readily available, American mainstream favored the newer lifestyles.

They can be fairly inexpensive, as this house built by a man and his father, a hand-made woodland home built with a handful of common tools like a chainsaw, hammer and chisel, his cost approx.US$4500. A friend of mine built his beautiful 4 bedroom home, after leaving his daily job every evening, talking about using every bit of the remaining day-light hours every evening and weekends, he finished the project in less than a year. once all necessary inspections passed, he moved into his brand new home, his cost US$53,000. 3 years later sold it for $305,000. My young step-daughter bought a waterfront handyman special in the low $100K’s, she hired an architect-builder, enjoyed her home for a while, and later she sold her newly built two story home for $1.25M.

Now as we grow into the 21st century, and become more environmentally aware, more people are using their imagination to re-create their dream homes! ...and some of them can be pretty wild!. Green homes are becoming more popular these days, regardless of the size and specifications, there are many ways to put your plans into action.

This green home designer and builder will show you all you need to know about green building, he has excellent ideas for the do-it yourself-ers, to see his videos and pictures with easy to understand detailed instructions CLICK HERE.

If you prefer to build your own home by hiring a contractor, this very informative report is from a professional with 30 years experience and credentials to give invaluable insider tips and shortcuts, also he knows how to save 30-40% of the cost of buying a home from a builder… to get the report GO HERE

Only 3 things are needed to get started, desire, a good construction plan and determination. The end result is higher real estate value and a unique and environmentally friendly home.

I Welcome Your Comments, Home Pictures and ideas you may want to share, and of course, any questions or critiques!

Earth4Energy

2011-03-15T15:01:00.000-04:00

Nowadays, everyone I know is looking to save in electricity bills. The colossal catastrophe in Japan, will have serious repercussions here in the US and also worldwide. We can already see its consequences in Wall Street. We need to be creative if we are to keep our lifestyles.

Now is the time to take action utilizing abundant natural resources. Earth4Energy can save you 80% of home electricity by utilizing free energy. Few devices are needed to convert these resources into free power. You do not require investing for any other commercially made home power generator, when you have the option to actually build one yourself. You can save up to 80% of home electricity with those home-made power generators.

Earth4Energy is one such program that has shown people how to create a home made solar panel and wind turbine from junks or parts that are easily available at any local shop. The program contains simple step-by-step instructional guide that can be easily followed by anyone. The kit involves the procedure of finding all necessary parts and putting them together. All this can be done for less than $200 unlike those commercially made one that costs at least $1000.

A home-made power generator can be built in not less than 3 days. For those living under a strong sunlight can take the option of using a solar panel to collect the direct sunlight and convert the same into solar power. Those who live in areas that can feel the strong wind blowing all the time can make use of the wind turbine to generate wind power for their home. These power generators can help you save up to 80% of home electricity.

At times of financial crisis, a wind turbine and solar panel can help us save money on the electricity usage and also keep the environment pollutant free. When we have the option to produce free energy from natural resources then why pay the utility company for power usage.

Learn how to build a home-made power generator like the solar panel and wind turbine at a shoestring budget by following the guide that shows you how to do that with step-by-step detail. Do not entirely depend on the free information downloaded from the internet because if you make a single mistake the entire project can be ruined, or sometimes may put your life in danger. I advise you to follow the guides carefully as they are written by professional environmentalists, who guide you with safety.

By the way, a wind turbine or solar panel can generate 24 kilowatt of power that is enough to operate a laptop, television and a mobile phone charger. Free energy that will run for at least a few years.
Knowledge is Power ~ Make power at home with solar and wind energy to eliminate your power bill.

To Get this complete guide CLICK HERE

Woodworking Plans

2011-02-17T21:40:00.000-05:00

You don't have to be a carpenter or joiner to build beautiful, solid wood furniture!.. Now you can get Ted's Woodworking plans, it is the best that I have ever seen: It has over 16,000 woodworking Plans and Projects, With Step-By-Step Easy To Follow Instructions. I am able to build Woodworking Projects Quickly & Easily, and without headaches using Ted's woodworking plans...
They are easy to understand with full-color pictures and database w/printable plans to build arbors, billiard tables, wood bedroom furniture, bookcases, chairs, computer desks, dog & cat houses, carports, wood sheds, patio wood furniture, wind generators, weather stations, wishing wells, even windmills, to name a few of his wood furniture plans. See Ted's CD’s and DVD’s bonus on how to start your own woodworking business. It comes with a 60 days 100% satisfaction guarantee.
To learn how you can download over 16,000 woodworking plans GO HERE

Eco-Savvy Smart Homes

2011-02-02T13:24:00.000-05:00

IF YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR HOME….
YOUR HOME WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU!
The joys of having a home that is environmentally friendly, with up-to-date home safety features has taken on a new meaning. You want to keep your family safe and your surroundings healthy for so many reasons. Eco homes and Eco friendly products are all around us and are here to stay. The economics of being green at home is saving valuable resources and is good for all of us, but it will also bring more zing into your life when you realize that it’s good for your own pocketbook too. Transforming your house into a castle that contains the latest functional, aesthetic, and safety features will not only increase your real estate value exponentially, but will enjoy a home with a unique character you can enjoy for many years.

Join Eco-SavvySmart Homes discussion group CLICK HERE