Lake Erie Islands, Rivers & Shores - Central Ohio's Northern Communities

6 Reasons Why Luxury Homes in Northern Ohio Don't Sell

2017-06-21T07:55:00.000-05:00

Why isn't my luxury home not selling?

Selling a luxury home often takes longer and requires more time and patience. There is a smaller pool of buyers able to purchase the home. What is keeping your home from selling?

1. Price

Because a buyer is wealthy does not mean that price doesn't matter! Your asking price matters. It should be based as much as possible on comparable sales. Wealthy buyers are often MORE aware of pricing, not less. These are savvy buyers who want a fair and balanced transaction.

Price your home correctly, and if you aren't getting activity within the first month be flexible and adjust the price accordingly. Over-pricing your home hoping the "Right Buyer" jumps is a proven strategy for getting a lower price in the end.

2. Neighborhood

Your home may be priced well in comparison to similarly priced property in the area, but is it priced correctly in relation to the homes in your neighborhood? Often a high end home is priced based on the only comparables available. If you have the most luxurious home in your neighborhood it is a disadvantage when it comes to the price/sq. ft. at which you can sell your home. Homes located within a high-end neighborhood are going to sell faster and generally for a better price. Just like most home owners, wealthy buyers want to live in neighborhoods where they are comfortable.

Be realistic with your pricing. You can't demand a price that your neighborhood will not support. Over pricing at the beginning only results in a lower sale price in the end a majority of the time.

3. Special Features

Luxury real estate often includes very specialized features that may not appeal to most buyers. These features may be a draw for some buyers, but elaborate and specialized features are often a negative for many buyers. Buyers may feel that they would need to be removed at an often substantial expense.

Specialized features may include:

Elaborate Water Features
Expansive Pool, Hot Tub, and Sauna Areas (particularly in colder climates)
Courts for Tennis, Handball and Racket Ball
Indoor Basketball Court
Indoor Bowling Alley
Customized Media Rooms
Very High Maintenance Gardens
Very Personalized Decor and Design

Your agent should focus advertising on high-end buyers that show special interest in that particular feature. Today's Internet advertising makes intense ad focus possible. Your pride and joy may be a negative in the end. Be prepared to credit funds towards it's removal as part of a Purchase Agreement.

4. Property Access - Don't Put Up Roadblocks and Expect Showings

Many high-end homes require the listing agent to be present for all showings. No agent will be in business long if they need to focus on only one or two homes. The best agents can't be at every showing without dramatically limiting the number of possible showings.

Luxury home sellers may request showings only during very limited hours, or only when they are out of town. This is a recipe for not selling your home. It shouldn't be surprising that luxury home buyers are very busy as are sellers. If you are serious about selling your home then give them access when they are available, not just when it is convenient for you.

Real estate agents today should verify the other agent's legitimacy prior to showing your luxury home. When possible they should use a showing service, they should call the agent to personally communicate any seller requests, and they should press for feedback after the showing.

5. Average Marketing Program for a Home that IS NOT AVERAGE!

A high end home needs high-end marketing. It should have it's own website, a visual tour that isn't a slide show, and drone photos where legal to highlight the grounds and location. Internet advertising should be very focused to target a small group with your higher end marketing product. Show off your house to the buyers that can afford your home!

6. You Still Need to Follow the Basic Rules

Just because you have an amazing home doesn't mean you can't follow the basic "Home Selling" rules and expect a sale. Some basic tips include:

Keep it clean! Even if you aren't using it anymore have a cleaning service do a weekly cleaning. It matters!

Make it smell good - but not with an overwhelming fragrance. Too strong a fragrance can assault the nose and make buyers think you are covering something up. No fragrance in an unused home or one with pets can result in pet odors or a "Musty" smell in an otherwise gorgeous home. Keep your buyers focused on your lovely home not the smell.

Maintain the lawn and gardens. They should look better than they have ever looked.

Have a certified home inspector go through your home before listing it. Fix everything that is discovered so it doesn't become an issue during the sale process. Keep the documentation and make it available to your agent.

A good agent will share all of the positives with the buyer's agent when they aren't representing their own buyer. They will share recent improvements and repairs, and highlight the homes amazing features.

In Summary:

Put yourself in the buyer's shoes. How would you want to be treated? Make your home available as much as possible, repair any problems before listing your home, and accept the fact that specialty features may not be for everyone.

If you are considering selling your luxury home contact me today

at 440-315-6000. Let's start the process.

leehisey@howardhanna.com

"Serving Cleveland, Ohio to the Lake Erie Islands"

Not in our area?

We are happy to refer you to a respected real estate professional we trust.

Why sell your Northern Central Ohio Home NOW? Inventory Challenges Continue! [INFOGRAPHIC]

2017-05-30T07:21:00.004-05:00

Some Highlights:

After a surge in March, existing home sales and new home sales slowed due to a drop in inventory available for sale in the start-up and trade-up categories.
Median existing home prices surged for the 62nd straight month, up 6.0% over last year to $244,800.
New home prices slowed as builders have started to turn their focus toward single family, smaller homes.

While these are national statistics many markets in our area, and even certain neighborhoods within markets are still RED HOT!

Avon, Avon Lake, Rocky River, Ohio City, Tremont, Gordon Square to name just a few!

If you have a wisely priced home that is updated your home will move. Contact me today to review our marketing program. Let the Hisey Group go to work for you: 440-315-6000 or leehisey@howardhanna.com.

www.HiseyGroup.com

Do You Know the Cost of NOT Owning Your Home?

2017-05-16T10:07:00.002-05:00

Owning a home has great financial benefits, yet many continue renting! Today, let’s look at the financial reasons why owning a home of your own has been a part of the American Dream for as long as America has existed.

Zillow recently reported that:

“With Rents continuing to climb and interest rates staying low, many renters find themselves gazing over the home ownership fence and wondering if the grass really is greener. Leaving aside, for the moment, the difficulties of saving for a down payment, let’s focus on the monthly expenses of owning a home: it turns out that renters currently paying the median rent in many markets could afford to buy a higher-quality property than the typical (read: median-valued) home without increasing their monthly expenses.”

What proof exists that owning is financially better than renting?

1. The latest Rent Vs. Buy Report from Trulia pointed out the top 5 financial benefits of home ownership:

Mortgage payments can be fixed while rents go up.
Equity in your home can be a financial resource later.
You can build wealth without paying capital gain.
A mortgage can act as a forced savings account
Overall, homeowners can enjoy greater wealth growth than renters.

2. Studies have shown that a homeowner’s net worth is 45x greater than that of a renter.

3. Just a few months ago, we explained that a family buying an average priced home at the beginning of 2017 could build more than $42,000 in family wealth over the next five years.

4. Some argue that renting eliminates the cost of taxes and home repairs, but every potential renter must realize that all the expenses the landlord incurs are already baked into the rent payment –along with a profit margin!!

Bottom Line

Owning a home has always been, and will always be, better from a financial standpoint than renting. Contact me today and let my team go to work making your dream a reality! Call 440-315-6000 or email me at leehisey@howardhanna.com.

Is 2017 the Year to Move Up to Your Ohio Dream Home? If So, Do It Early!

2017-05-09T08:24:00.005-05:00

Are you considering a larger home, a better neighborhood, or maybe a waterfront home on Lake Erie?

If you are considering moving up to your dream home, it may be better to do it earlier in the year than later. The two components of your monthly mortgage payment (home prices and interest rates) are both projected to increase as the year moves forward, and interest rates may increase rather dramatically. Here are some predictions on where rates will be by the end of the year:

Freddie Mac

“While full employment and rising inflation are signs of a strong economy, they also have the potential to push mortgage rates and house prices up. The higher rates and higher prices create significant affordability concerns, which may continue to characterize the housing market for the rest of 2017.”

Lynn Fisher, Vice President of Research & Economics for the Mortgage Bankers Association

“By the time we get to the fourth quarter of this year, we will still be under 5 percent – we are thinking 4.7 percent…Something north of 5 percent by the time we get to 2018, and by the time we get to 2019, we show fourth-quarter rates hitting 5.5 percent.”

Mark Fleming, First American’s Chief Economist

“Despite some regional disparities, title agents and real estate professionals do not expect increasing mortgage rates to have a significant impact on the housing market this spring. Continued good economic news, increasing Millennial demand and confidence that buyers will remain in the market even if rates exceed 5 percent bode well for 2017 real estate.”

Len Kiefer, Deputy Chief Economist for Freddie Mac

“We will probably see rates higher at the end of year, around 4.5%.”

Bottom Line

If you are feeling good about your family’s economic future and are considering making a move to your dream home, doing it sooner rather than later makes the most sense. Call Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator for the Hisey Group with Howard Hanna today at 440-315-6000 or leehisey@howardhanna.com to start making your dream a reality!

www.HiseyGroup.com

Homeowner's Insurance Facts from Howard Hanna Financial Services

2017-05-05T14:03:00.001-05:00

The HannaFinancial Series: Homeowner’s Insurance FAQs

The Low-Down on HOI

For most, the purchase of a home will be the biggest investment made in a lifetime. This means that homeowner’s insurance is the most valuable way to protect your investment. Homeowner’s insurance can cover most everything in your home and everything that’s important to you! Your Howard Hanna Insurance Services team understands that the homebuying process can be overwhelming. That’s why they’ve answered some of the most common questions regarding HOI below.

Do I really need homeowner’s insurance?

By law, you are not required to have homeowner’s insurance. However, if you decide to finance your home through a mortgage lender, including your team at HannaFinancial, you’ll be required to have it. Your insurance is protection against the many property and liability risks you can face as an owner. If you are not buying homeowner’s insurance, you are “self-insuring.” Besides, the unexpected sometimes happens, and the peace of mind that’s provided by having insurance is second to none.
In addition to having homeowner’s insurance, umbrella coverage is an important policy to have as a homeowner. Umbrella coverage gives additional liability protection and helps you to protect your assets. A home is the largest asset most people will ever own. Every homeowner should have at least a $1 million umbrella policy to provide liability coverage beyond the limits of their automobile and homeowner’s insurance policies…even if you have less than $1 million in assets. In the event you are sued, you could be forced to pay a legal judgment from your current assets and possibly future earnings. The policy can also pay for defense costs, which can quickly add up even if you win your case. It’s an inexpensive way to protect your finances from devastating lawsuits.

What does my homeowner’s insurance policy cover?

Policy, form and coverage can vary among carriers and from state to state, but the vast majority of insurance policies cover two very important areas: property and liability. At a minimum, your policy will typically cover the following damages:

Damage from an aircraft

Explosions

Falling objects

Fire or lightning

Freezing of a plumbing, heating, air conditioning or other such household system

Smoke

Theft or vandalism

Damage caused to your property by vehicles

Weight of ice, snow, or sleet

Windstorm or hail

What are the factors that can affect my premium?

Location, location, location

The amount of coverage that you need

Fire safeguards

Condition, materials, maintenance, and home age

Claims

Your credit score

Deductible amount

Other insurance policies with the same insurance company such as automobile, umbrella, life, etc.

What are the parts of a homeowner’s insurance policy?

Declarations – This portion is an overview including information like the name(s) of the insured, address, dollar amount of coverage, property description and property cost.

Definitions – This portion explains meanings intended for terms used within the policy. The definitions are critical to understanding the degree of your policy coverage.

Coverages – This portion explains the extent of the liability and property coverage for the policy.

Exclusions – This portion explains what is not covered by your policy.

Endorsements – A policy amendment that changes the standard coverage under your insurance policy. Sometimes endorsements are negotiable based on your specific property needs. For instance, personal property replacement cost and backup of sewers and drains are common endorsements that help to round out your protection.

How do I choose a deductible for my policy?

Under most circumstances, your deductible for your homeowner’s insurance should be as high as you can comfortably afford. The higher your deductible, the lower the cost of your premium. Many times, raising a deductible can reduce your homeowner’s insurance premium. That being said, it’s best to balance short-term cost with long-term policy cost, coming to a compromise that makes sense based on both your needs and budget.

Should I consider additional insurance coverage for specific personal property such as jewelry?

Typically, a policy will list specific monetary limits for certain personal property. If these limits seem low to you when you review your policy, it may make sense to get additional coverage for specific items. The purpose of homeowner’s insurance is to cover general personal possessions, not valuable collections such as artwork or family heirloom jewelry.

What can I do to make my home safer and save money?

Since the condition of the home is a large factor in insurance costs, there may be ways for you to save money by making your home safer. For instance, adding storm shutters to make the house more windstorm-resistant or updating an electrical system to reduce the risk of fire damage may go a long way. Even simple things like installing an alarm system, more smoke detectors, or putting in more dead-bolt locks may not only help to make your home safer, but also lower your insurance cost. Bundling all of your insurance coverage with a single carrier can also save money with multiple policy discounts, and it is easier and more convenient to have all of your insurance in one place.
Have additional questions? Your Howard Hanna Insurance team has answers! Give us a call or email us at: 800-646-5355 | insurance-info@howardhanna.com. Or for more information, visit us at: www.HowardHanna.com/Insurance.

First Time Home Buyers - How Fast Can You Save for a Down Payment?

2017-04-26T18:30:00.000-05:00

Saving for a down payment is often the biggest hurdle for a first-time homebuyer. Depending on where you live, median income, median rents, and home prices all vary. So, we set out to find out how long would it take you to save for a down payment in each state?

Using data from the United States Census Bureau and Zillow, we determined how long it would take, nationwide, for a first-time buyer to save enough money for a down payment on their dream home. There is a long-standing ‘rule’ that a household should not pay more than 28% of their income on their monthly housing expense.

By determining the percentage of income spent renting a 2-bedroom apartment in each state, and the amount needed for a 10% down payment, we were able to establish how long (in years) it would take for an average resident to save enough money to buy a home of their own.

According to the data, residents in Iowa can save for a down payment the quickest in just under 2 years (1.99). Below is a map created using the data for each state:

What if you only needed to save 3%?

What if you were able to take advantage of one of Freddie Mac’s or Fannie Mae’s 3% down programs? Suddenly, saving for a down payment no longer takes 5 or 10 years, but becomes attainable in a year or two in many states as shown in the map below.

Bottom Line

Whether you have just started to save for a down payment, or have been saving for years, you may be closer to your dream home than you think! Let's meet up so I can help you evaluate your ability to buy today.

Need to talk? More questions? Contact the Hisey Group today at 440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com.

www.HiseyGroup.com

Slaying Home Buying Myths [INFOGRAPHIC]

2017-04-25T16:41:00.002-05:00

Some Highlights:

Interest rates are still below historic numbers.
88% of property managers raised their rent in the last 12 months!
The credit score requirements for mortgage approval continue to fall.

Contact Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator at 440-315-6000 to discuss your options.

www.HiseyGroup.com

Historic Middle Bass Island, Ohio Lake Erie Waterfront Home For Sale

2017-04-12T14:00:00.002-05:00

Take a tour of this amazing Victorian home,

then call for more details

and to arrange an in-person tour!

Lee Hisey, 440-315-6000

www.HiseyGroup.com

Programmable Thermostats - A benefit for heating and air conditioning!

2017-04-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Technology Snapshot & Benefits:

Programmable thermostats work with your heating and cooling system to control temperatures throughout the day to maximize energy savings. This entails automatically adjusting temperatures according to pre-set or established settings to keep the home comfortable when homeowners are there and saving energy when they are gone or sleeping. This technology helps save energy because the closer your home's temperature is to its surroundings, the less energy will be spent on heating or cooling. Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day (typically waking, daytime, evening, and sleep) so that you are not heating or cooling an empty house when you are not there. Temperatures will automatically adjust back to the comfortable temperatures established in your settings before you wake up or return home.

Most programmable thermostats come pre-programmed for typical heating and cooling needs. These settings can be easily adjusted to better suit your schedule. Many also feature a manual override that allows you to temporarily adjust temperatures without interfering with later programmed settings. Most models have a hold or vacation feature that allows you to adjust your home's temperatures when you are gone for extended periods of time.

There are a few different types of programmable thermostats. When deciding which model to purchase, consider your family's schedule and when you need the most flexibility.

1.     7-day: This model offers the most overall flexibility by allowing you to alter your settings separately for each day of the week.

2.     5-2 day: This model creates one setting for weekdays (Monday-Friday) and a different setting for weekends (Saturday and Sunday).

3.     5-1-1: This model allows you to create one setting for weekdays and two separate settings for Saturday and Sunday.

Estimated Cost Savings:The initial cost of a programmable thermostat ranges anywhere from $25 to over $250. Generally, standard models come in at the lower end of that range ($25-$80). These models can usually accomplish most if not all desired settings. Because most programmable thermostats can be self-installed, there is no required installation cost. If you opt for a professional installation from an HVAC specialist, you can expect to pay between $100 and $400. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a programmable thermostat and setting back temperatures 10-15% at least 8 hours a day, you can save an average of 10% off your heating and cooling bill every year, which provides a relatively quick payback period.  Click here for Energy Star's Programmable Thermostat Savings Calculator to see how much you could save.

Issues:In heating mode, turning the temperature up and down on heat pumps can cause malfunction. Because of this, programmable thermostats do not work as well with heat pumps as they do with traditional furnaces. Keep your heat pump on a moderate setting to help save energy. For more information on what a heat pump is and how it can save energy, click here.

Many electric resistance systems (i.e. electric baseboard heating) utilize 120-volt or 240-volt circuits. There are not many programmable thermostats on the market that are compatible with this requirement. If you are looking to install a programmable thermostat with an electric resistance system, check packaging labels to make sure they are compatible or consider professional advice.

Steam heating and radiant floor heat have slow response times. In other words, it takes longer for these heating systems to react to settings than traditional furnaces. If you are installing a programmable thermostat with one of these systems, make sure you choose one that can track the performance of the heating system to know when to turn on and off to accommodate for the slower response time.

Tips on Using a Programmable Thermostat:

Adjust the temperature down in the winter and up in the summer to help save energy.

Adjusting temperatures 10-15 degrees while you are gone for at least 8 hours helps maximize energy savings.

Do not adjust your settings to extremes (90 degrees for heat and 40 degrees for cool). These extreme temperature settings will not result in quicker heating/cooling.

If your home has multiple heating circuits, install a programmable thermostat for each zone.

Programmable thermostats are ideal for families or individuals who are out of the house for long periods of time during the day (i.e. for work or school). Keep your schedule in mind when considering programmable thermostats.

Installation (Getting It Done):Most programmable thermostats can easily be installed without professional assistance. Follow packaging labels and directions to ensure it is done properly. For best results, install the thermostat on an interior wall away from sources of heat and cooling (vents, doors, lamps, sunlight, etc.). Typically, programmable thermostats are installed in place of existing thermostats, so it is important to move any lamps or heat-generating appliances away from your current thermostat before installing a programmable one to allow it to function properly. Turn off the electricity when installing to avoid electric shocks. If you have any questions or would like a professional installation, contact your local HVAC specialist. Some thermostats contain a mercury tube, so be careful when installing the new one or removing an old one to avoid dangerous breakage.

Videos on This Topic:

Programmable Thermostats (4:18) - Sierra Club Green Homes - Programmable thermostats can be a great way to reduce heating and cooling costs as they regulate home heat by automatically changing temperatures at certain times of night or day as set by the homeowner. In this video from Sierra Club Green Homes, watch as Owen Bailey gives a step-by-step guide to simple installation.

How to Use a Programmable Thermostat (4:50) - Energy Star - Find out what to look for when purchasing a thermostat and how to program them to best suit your family's comfort needs while reducing energy usage.

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat (2:47) - This Old House - In this video from This Old House, find out how to install a programmable thermostat into your home to start saving energy and money on heating and cooling costs today.

How to Program a Thermostat (5:12) - The Home Depot - By programming your thermostat to adjust according to your schedule, you can drastically reduce your energy usage by avoiding heating or cooling an empty house. In this video, find out what to keep in mind when purchasing your thermostat and get some tips and tricks on how to program it to suit your needs.

More Information On This Topic:

Energy Star - Programmable Thermostats

Energy Star - Programmable Thermostat Tool

Energy Star - Installing a Programmable Thermostat

Energy Star - Tips and Guidelines for Programmable Thermostats

Energy Star - Guide to Efficient Heating and Cooling

Energy Star - Buying Guide

U.S. Department of Energy - Thermostats and Control Systems

15,014 Homes Sold Yesterday… Did Yours?

2017-04-06T07:29:00.000-05:00

There are some homeowners that have been waiting for months to get a price they hoped for when they originally listed their house for sale. The only thing they might want to consider is... If it hasn't sold yet, maybe it's not priced properly.

After all, 15,014 houses sold yesterday, 15,014 will sell today and 15,014 will sell tomorrow.

15,014!

That is the average number of homes that sell each and every day in this country, according to the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR)  latest Existing Home Sales Report. NAR reported that sales are at an annual rate of 5.48 million. Divide that number by 365 (days in a year) and we can see that, on average, over 15,014 homes sell every day.

The report from NAR also revealed that there is currently only a 3.8-month supply of inventory available for sale, (6-months inventory is considered ‘historically normal’).

This means that there are not enough homes available for sale to satisfy the buyers who are out in the market now in record numbers.

Bottom Line

We realize that you want to get the fair market value for your home. However, if it hasn't sold in today's active real estate market, perhaps you should reconsider your current asking price.

Use the buttons below to share with your Personalized Posts profile...

Hisey Group with Howard Hanna

2017-04-05T10:59:00.001-05:00

Financing your Northern Central Ohio Home? There are under 20% Options.

2017-04-05T07:25:00.007-05:00

Again… You Do Not Need 20% Down to Buy NOW!

A survey by Ipsos found that the American public is still somewhat confused about what is required to qualify for a home mortgage loan in today’s housing market. There are two major misconceptions that we want to address today.

1. Down Payment

The survey revealed that consumers overestimate the down payment funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the report, 40% of consumers think a 20% down payment is always required. In actuality, there are many loans written with a down payment of 3% or less.

Many renters may actually be able to enter the housing market sooner than they ever imagined with new programs that have emerged allowing less cash out of pocket.

2. FICO® Scores

The survey also revealed that 62% of respondents believe they need excellent credit to buy a home, with 43% thinking a “good credit score” is over 780. In actuality, the average FICO® scores of approved conventional and FHA mortgages are much lower.

The average conventional loan closed in February had a credit score of 752, while FHA mortgages closed with a score of 686. The average across all loans closed in February was 720. The chart below shows the distribution of FICO® Scores for all loans approved in February.

Bottom Line

If you are a prospective buyer who is ‘ready’ and ‘willing’ to act now, but are not sure if you are ‘able’ to, let’s sit down to help you understand your true options. Contact me today. Ask for our free financing sheet for lenders we work with and schedule your free consultation to discuss your real estate plans for 2017.

Lee Hisey, Phone/Text: 440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com.

www.HiseyGroup.com

5k Obstacle Mud Run, Ocr Obstacle Mud Runs - Adrenaline Rush Sports Llc - Oak Harbor, OH

2017-03-27T08:14:00.001-05:00

Athletes - check out this challenge.

5k Obstacle Mud Run, Ocr Obstacle Mud Runs - Adrenaline Rush Sports Llc - Oak Harbor, Oh: A 5K obstacle mud run in Oak Harbor course built to challenge the athlete and non athlete alike. We offer a verity of obstacles with varying difficulty levels. Each

How Low Supply & High Demand Impacts the Real Estate Market [INFOGRAPHIC]

2017-03-26T09:04:00.000-05:00

Some Highlights:

The concept of Supply & Demand is a simple one. The best time to sell something is when the supply of that item is low & the demand for that item is high!
Anything under a 6-month supply is a Seller’s Market!
There has not been a 6-months inventory supply since August 2012!
Buyer Demand continues to outpace Seller Supply!

If you live in Avon, Avon Lake, Bay Village, Westlake or Rocky River we currently have a huge listing shortage of homes in the $200k to $300k range. Contact me today to get your home listed before interest rates increase and/or conditions change.

Lee Hisey, The Hisey Group w/ Howard Hanna

440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com

www.HiseyGroup.com

The Basics on Insulating for Home Energy Efficiency

2017-03-20T11:27:00.000-05:00

Technology Snapshot & Benefits:

You can save a lot of money by installing or improving insulation. Insulation retards the flow of heat and is one of the most cost-effective investments that you can make. The effectiveness of insulation is measured by its tested resistance to heat flow and is known by its "R" value. The greater the "R" value, the greater the effectiveness. One of the easiest and most effective places to install insulation is in the attic, since heat rises from the heated rooms below. Insulation comes in many different forms including the familiar fiberglass, Styrofoam, vermiculite, pouring wool, cellulose materials such as shredded newspaper, and numerous "foamed-in-place" types. Particularly within the fiberglass and rigid foamed board types, there are a variety of choices of heat-reflective coatings. Properly installed insulation always improves comfort and reduces heating and cooling costs.

Click here to find out what R-value insulation you need.

Estimated Cost Savings:
Heating buildings is one of the largest expenditures of energy in the nation and one of the greatest opportunities for saving. The average U.S. household spent more than $2,350 in 1999 for energy: $1,200 for home energy and $1,150 for motor gasoline to run vehicles. (AEO2001, p.213) Of the $1,200 spent in the home, nearly half is spent for heating and cooling (AEO2001, p.162) and in aggregate, amounted to more than $50 billion in 1999. (p.159)

For new construction, the maximum recommended amounts of insulation yield huge savings compared to no insulation. For existing buildings, upgrading to the recommended amount of insulation will save money. The amount of savings vary widely depending upon your starting point – namely, how much insulation you already have. See Energy Star's Cost-Effective Insulation Values for Existing Homes for recommended insulating values for walls, floors, ceilings, and basements.

In general terms, when you double the R value of your insulation, the heat flow through the insulated surface will halve. Your bill, however, may not halve because of other, less well-insulated surfaces in the building. Typical savings for retrofit insulation are on the order of 20-30% of your heating bill. For a monthly heating bill of $200, this can amount to $40-$60 in savings.

Issues:

A plan will help you with insulating decisions. In general, you should bring the attic insulation up to currents standards because it is easy to do so. Wall insulation can be problematic, as many walls are little more than the width of a 2x4, which limits the depth of insulation that can be easily installed. Sometimes a second interior wall can be built which provides a deeper cavity for insulation as well as providing an easy opportunity to upgrade electrical wiring and new cable and telephone wiring. This is most economical when done as part of a larger room-remodeling effort.

Regional Issues:

The amount of insulation that you need varies upon your climate and exposure to prevailing winds. Northern locations benefit most from insulation during the heating season; southern locations benefit most during the cooling season.

Installation (Getting It Done):

Be sure to get bids from two or three (or more) contractors and explore different methods and types of insulation. Multiple bids will allow you to gain immediate perspective on the true costs and value of insulation in your area.

Videos On This Topic:

From EcoBroker International: Lee Hisey, Realtor is a member.

Contact us today to list your home? Searching for a home with "Green" features?

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, The Hisey Group LLC with Howard Hanna

440-315-6000 * LeeHisey@howardhanna.com

www.HiseyGroup.com

First Time Home Buyer’s Guide

2017-03-20T08:13:00.000-05:00

We actively advertise all of our listings on www.Homes.com and they have a nice user friendly guide for new home buyers. Check it out, then give us a call to help you through the process. Remember - the seller pays our commission!

Everything you need to know about the first time you buy a house, or a refresher for your second home and beyond! Click to check out the interactive version:

First Time Home Buyer’s Guide

When you are ready to move to the next level give me a call!

Put my team to work for you. There is no charge!

Lee Hisey, Phone/Text:440-315-6000

http://www.HiseyGroup.com

LeeHisey@howardhanna.com

The Basics on Energy-Efficient Appliances

2017-03-17T11:21:00.001-05:00

Technology Snapshot & Benefits:

Both immediate and indirect economic savings can come from energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators, horizontal-axis washing machines, clothes dryers, dishwashers, etc. Immediate and continuing savings accrue from lower utility bills for electricity and/or water. The performance levels of these appliances meet, and generally exceed, those of industry "standard" models. As a case in point, consider household refrigeration. By the late 1970s, refrigerators reached their most inefficient performance by requiring about 1750 kiloWatt-hours per year to operate. Modern energy-efficient refrigerators provide the same or better service at 450-550 kiloWatt-hours per year, and they are much quieter in operation.

Estimated Cost Savings:

The direct economic savings achieved by efficient appliances are a function of how much the appliance will be used, the performance level of the equipment being replaced, and local costs for utilities. When you replace older equipment, it is not uncommon for electricity consumption for that appliance to decrease by 50% or more. In general, if the appliance being replaced is more than 15 years old, and it is replaced with a state-of-the-art unit, you may expect utility savings of 20%-60% compared with the energy required by the previous appliance. Horizontal-axis washing machines typically save consumers 50% in both electric and water utilities. Additional savings come from reduced quantities of detergent.

Your monthly electrical bill is for all electricity used by all electrical loads in the building, so changing a single appliance will lower the bill, but in proportion to the amount of electricity formerly used by that appliance. If refrigeration represents 15-20% of your electric bill, a new refrigerator that is twice as efficient as the unit being replaced will lower your total bill by about 7-10%.

Any increase in initial cost is usually more than made up in monthly savings. See ACEEE Consumer Guide to Home Energy Saving for more detailed information on appliances and savings.

Issues:

Availability of the most energy-efficient appliances may be an issue. Sometimes the best equipment is in demand, which can mean that discounts and sale prices are either unavailable or of lower value. Over time, as manufacturers and suppliers clear inventories of less efficient models by offering discounts, expect the price of efficient appliances to come down as well.

Regional Issues:

Primarily, regional issues involve supply, delivery, and installation.

Installation (Getting It Done):

Be sure to price shop and to get two or three (or more) prices. Inquire about installation and removal of your old unit. For any refrigeration unit, be sure that the refrigerant will be removed and recycled responsibly. Refrigerants are very potent greenhouse gases and must be captured and contained. Shopping for price and availability will give you perspective on the true costs of equipment and installation in your area.

Videos On This Topic

How to Save with Energy Star Appliances (1:49) - The Home Depot - In this video from The Home Depot's "Save Money, Save Energy" series, find out more about how much money you can save by installing Energy Star Appliances.

Ailing Appliances (4:17) - National Geographic Green Homes- There are many appliances in your home that you may not think use too much energy, but in reality are costing hundreds of dollars every year. In this video from the National Geographic Green Guide, find out what to look for when replacing appliances and how to make sure you are maximizing your energy savings and minimizing environmental impact.

Advantages of Energy Star Appliances in Your Home (1:01) - Danny Lipford - Buying Energy Star appliances can help you save as much as 10-50% on your energy bills as well as reduce water use. In this short video, hear a little bit more about why it is important to look for the Energy Star label and how much of an impact it can have on the environment.

Energy Star Home Review (4:40) - Energy Star Podcast - Watch as Tom Kraeutler of The Money Pit Home Improvements Radio Show talks about ways to implement energy-efficient practices in a room-by-room home tour that includes Energy Star appliances, CFL light bulbs, and programmable thermostats.

More Information on This Topic:

U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Energy Savers - Appliances

U.S. Department of Energy's Building Technologies Program: Dishwasher Tips

U.S. Department of Energy's Building Technologies Program: Laundry Tips

U.S. Department of Energy's Building Technologies Program: Refrigerator/Freezer Energy Tips

Energy Star^®: Appliances

Energy Star^®: Clothes Washers

Energy Star^®: Dehumidifiers

Energy Star^®: Dishwashers

Energy Star^®: Refrigerators

Energy Star^®: Room Air Conditioners

Contact us today to list your home? Searching for a home with "Green" features?

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, The Hisey Group LLC with Howard Hanna

440-315-6000 * LeeHisey@howardhanna.com

www.HiseyGroup.com

Things to do on Middle Bass Island, Ohio

2017-03-17T10:30:00.000-05:00

Where is Middle Bass Island, Ohio and what is there to do?

Middle Bass Island (originally Isle des Fleures) is a 805 acre island located north of South Bass Island and south of North Bass Island (Isle St George). Makes sense - right! It is in northern Ottawa County. Kelleys Island is east of the Bass Islands, and is located in Erie County. They are surrounded by other smaller islands. Larger Pelee Island in Canada is to the North.

Middle Bass Island's central location within the Bass Islands, as well as the other Lake Erie Islands makes it an ideal place for you to base your Lake Erie vacation or to purchase a home, building site, cottage or condominium. An undiscovered Ohio gem, the prices are still very reasonable.

Bass Island things to see and do:

J.F. Walleyes Microbrewery - On Middle Bass Island (MBI) holds regular events throughout the year. Food, drinks, live entertainment and more!
St. Hazards Resort - Events, rental trailers and campsites, bar/restaurant.
Middle Bass Island Yacht Club - Great Lakes boater's connection.
Middle Bass Rentals - Your best source for renting a place for a day, week or month.
Miller Boat Line - Your ferry to Middle Bass Island. Part of the experience - enjoy the trip.
Take a Virtual Tour of Middle Bass Island - The quiet island for active people.
Sonny S - Put-in-Bay is just a shuttle boat ride away! Leave the "Quiet Island for Active People" for the "hopping" spot in the islands. You can generally catch a ride on the hour during the summer months.
YouTube Video Tour of Middle Bass Island.
The village of Put-in-Bay is packed with shopping and dining opportunities. Many unique tourist attractions.
Lake Erie Island Real Estate - The "Hisey Group"
Middle Bass Island State Park and Marina
Lonz Winery - Now owned by the State of Ohio. It is unfortunately falling into disrepair since purchased by the state, but you can still walk the grounds of this grand old establishment. (Let's hope the state does something. How about a place for all of Ohio Wineries to display, sell and show-off our great Ohio wines as a group?)

This is just a sampling of what the islands have to offer. Other forms of transportation include water taxi's and private plane service. Mainland activities include wineries, Cedar Point Amusement Park, and nature areas and parks throughout the island/coastal region. Fishing and boating opportunities abound.

Contact the Hisey Group with Howard Hanna for more info.

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, Realtor

440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com

www.HiseyGroup.com

Island Office: 891 Fox Rd, Middle Bass Island, Ohio 43446

Special Financing for Medical Doctors, Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists, Ophthalmologists, and Veterinarians.

2017-03-15T17:32:00.000-05:00

The Prescription for Homeownership. This unique mortgage program is designed exclusively for physicians with good credit, but limited assets and potential high student loan debt.

No Down Payment Needed. Your buyer's days as a resident or fellow can be tough, so they'll appreciate the option of bringing less cash to closing. Our Physician Plus program offers an option of no down payment along with no mortgage insurance up to $650,000.

Financial Flexibility. In addition to no down payment, funds used toward closing costs can come from different sources, such as gifts from a family member! Also, the seller of the property can contribute up to 3% of the purchase price to pay certain closing costs or settlement fees.

Who's Eligible? Medical doctors, including dentists, podiatrists, and ophthalmologists. Veterinarians are permitted as well.

Contact me today and let me put you in touch of an approved Ohio lender, then let's start your home search!

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator & Realtor

"Serving Cleveland to the Lake Erie Islands"

440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com.

www.HiseyGroup.com

Remember to change your clocks tonight! What a difference an hour makes! Time to SPRING FORWARD.

2017-03-11T10:00:00.000-06:00

Some Highlights:

Don’t forget to set your clocks forward this Sunday, March 12th at 2:00 AM EST in observance of Daylight Savings Time.
Unless of course, you are a resident of Arizona or Hawaii!
Every hour in the United States: 649 homes are sold, 177 homes regain equity (meaning they are no longer underwater on their mortgage), and the median home price rises $1.86!

Contact me today and let my team go to work

helping you to meet your spring real estate goals.

Life changes, and so do our home needs. Let's get started!

Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator

The Hisey Group w/ Howard Hanna

440-315-6000

leehisey@howardhanna.com

www.HiseyGroup.com

Our Beautiful Lake Erie Islands

2017-03-10T09:02:00.000-06:00

Our beautiful Lake Erie Islands are a chain of archipelagic islands. They include islands located in both the United States and Canada. The majority of the islands are in the state of Ohio. The largest island is Pelee Island located in Canada and the southernmost point in Canada is Middle Island. Major islands in the United States include Kelleys Island, Middle Bass Island, and South Bass Island. Many of the islands are nature preserves or privately owned.

The larger islands to include Pelee Island, Middle Bass Island, Kelleys Island and South Bass Island have regular car ferry service in season as well as passenger ferry service. Some of the smaller islands have their own ferry docks and can arrange special ferry service. There is also a regular passenger boat from the Village of Put in Bay on South Bass Island to the southern tip of Middle Bass Island. Charter boats and planes are available, or you can visit by private plane or boat.

Primary Ferry Services:

Jet Express

Miller Boat Line

Kelleys Island Ferry

There are other services that offer "special" cruise trips throughout the season. Some visit more than one island.

The Lake Erie Islands (largest to smallest)

Pelee Island (Canada/Ontario)
Kelleys Island (US/Ohio)
South Bass Island (US/Ohio)
Middle Bass Island (US/Ohio)
North Bass Island (US/Ohio)
Johnson’s Island (US/Ohio)
Middle Island (Canada/Ontario)
West Sister Island (US/Ohio)
Rattlesnake Island (US/Ohio)
Turtle Island (US/Ohio and Michigan)
Green Island (US/Ohio)
Sugar Island (US/Ohio)
Ballast Island (US/Ohio)
Mouse Island (US/Ohio)
Gibraltar Island (US/Ohio)
Indian Island (US/Michigan)
Hen Island (surrounded by very small Big Chicken/Chick/and Little Chicken Island – really more reefs) (Canada/Ontario)
Middle Sister Island (Canada/Ontario)
North Harbor Island (Canada/Ontario)
Ryerson’s Island (Canada/Ontario)
Second Island (Canada/Ontario)
Starve Island (US/Ohio)
Buckeye Island (US/Ohio)
Lost Ballast Island (US/Ohio)
Snow Island (Canada/Ontario)
Mohawk Island (formerly Gull Island) (Canada/Ontario)
Gull Island (US/Ohio)

The Lake Erie Islands have long been a spring through fall vacation area, with an active ice fishing community in the winter. They are surrounded by some of the richest fishing areas in the world, and provide opportunities for a wide variety of water sports and activities. The islands each have unique communities offering entertainment, outdoor activities, shopping and dining in a wide variety of venues.

For information on purchasing a home or property on the Lake Erie Islands or any of our island, river and shore communities contact the Hisey Group with Howard Hanna at 440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com.

www.HiseyGroup.com

Keep Your Roof in Tip-Top Shape

2017-03-10T08:30:00.001-06:00

It’s almost time to spring your clocks ahead one hour! Daylight Saving Time begins on March 12, 2017. In preparation for the year ahead, your roof is one of the most important areas to maintain. Periodic roof maintenance helps prevent major issues that can lead to serious homeowner claims.

Roof
Check for damage to your roof and have a professional inspection, if necessary.

Attic
Go to the attic. If there is visible moisture or discoloration, your roof might be leaking.

Siding
Examine the paint on your siding and trim. If it is peeling, you might need new paint to protect against the effects of weather.

Leaks
Check for leaks around window and door sills. Improving your seals can lower your energy bills.

Debris
Clean debris from gutters and downspouts, and make sure they’re draining away from the home.

Greenery
Trim overhanging tree branches, untidy vegetation, and overgrown shrubs.

Winter weather often results in gradual damage that homeowners can miss if they aren’t looking closely. This is particularly important to watch out for because homeowners policies do not provide coverage for wear and tear. It’s well worth it to spend a little time on home maintenance this spring, so that a small roof issue doesn’t turn into a big roof issue!

It’s almost time to spring ahead! Daylight Saving Time begins on March 12, 2017. Don’t forget to advance your clocks!

Are you ready to spring into the housing market? Contact me today at 440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com. Let's take your dream to the next level!

www.HiseyGroup.com

From the Howard Hanna Corporage Blog. Original: Keep Your Roof in Tip-Top Shape

TIME TO MOVE?

2017-02-22T08:44:00.001-06:00

Our newest video campaign - just fun!

First time home buyer? Need to move into your own space?

Contact us today at 440-315-6000.

Kitchen Remodeling Project? Check out these before starting your kitchen!

2017-02-20T08:58:00.000-06:00

The say the kitchen is the heart of the home. Check out these amazing kitchen remodeling projects.

When selling your home the kitchen matters!

Click Here:

Before and After: 13 Dramatic Kitchen Transformations

Kitchen Remodeled in 211 seconds: Check out this cool video showing a kitchen transformation!

2017-02-19T09:03:00.001-06:00

When selling your home the kitchen is a huge factor! Even a basic remodel will help win over buyers touring your home.

Check out this amazing video!

When you are ready to sell your Northern Ohio home - contact the experts.

The Hisey Group w/ Howard Hanna - phone/text 440-315-6000

or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com

"Serving Cleveland to the Lake Erie Islands" for over 50 years!

Lake Erie Islands, Rivers & Shores - Central Ohio's Northern Communities

6 Reasons Why Luxury Homes in Northern Ohio Don't Sell

Why isn't my luxury home not selling?

Why sell your Northern Central Ohio Home NOW? Inventory Challenges Continue! [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights:

Do You Know the Cost of NOT Owning Your Home?

What proof exists that owning is financially better than renting?

Bottom Line

Is 2017 the Year to Move Up to Your Ohio Dream Home? If So, Do It Early!

Freddie Mac

Lynn Fisher, Vice President of Research & Economics for the Mortgage Bankers Association

Mark Fleming, First American’s Chief Economist

Len Kiefer, Deputy Chief Economist for Freddie Mac

Bottom Line

Homeowner's Insurance Facts from Howard Hanna Financial Services

The HannaFinancial Series: Homeowner’s Insurance FAQs

The Low-Down on HOI

Do I really need homeowner’s insurance?

What does my homeowner’s insurance policy cover?

What are the factors that can affect my premium?

What are the parts of a homeowner’s insurance policy?

How do I choose a deductible for my policy?

Should I consider additional insurance coverage for specific personal property such as jewelry?

What can I do to make my home safer and save money?

First Time Home Buyers - How Fast Can You Save for a Down Payment?

What if you only needed to save 3%?

Bottom Line

Slaying Home Buying Myths [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights:

Historic Middle Bass Island, Ohio Lake Erie Waterfront Home For Sale

Programmable Thermostats - A benefit for heating and air conditioning!

15,014 Homes Sold Yesterday… Did Yours?

There are some homeowners that have been waiting for months to get a price they hoped for when they originally listed their house for sale. The only thing they might want to consider is... If it hasn't sold yet, maybe it's not priced properly.

After all, 15,014 houses sold yesterday, 15,014 will sell today and 15,014 will sell tomorrow.

15,014!

Bottom Line

We realize that you want to get the fair market value for your home. However, if it hasn't sold in today's active real estate market, perhaps you should reconsider your current asking price. Use the buttons below to share with your Personalized Posts profile...

Hisey Group with Howard Hanna

Financing your Northern Central Ohio Home? There are under 20% Options.

1. Down Payment

2. FICO® Scores

Bottom Line

5k Obstacle Mud Run, Ocr Obstacle Mud Runs - Adrenaline Rush Sports Llc - Oak Harbor, OH

How Low Supply & High Demand Impacts the Real Estate Market [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights:

The Basics on Insulating for Home Energy Efficiency

First Time Home Buyer’s Guide

The Basics on Energy-Efficient Appliances

Things to do on Middle Bass Island, Ohio

Special Financing for Medical Doctors, Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists, Ophthalmologists, and Veterinarians.

Remember to change your clocks tonight! What a difference an hour makes! Time to SPRING FORWARD.

Some Highlights:

Our Beautiful Lake Erie Islands

Keep Your Roof in Tip-Top Shape

TIME TO MOVE?

Kitchen Remodeling Project? Check out these before starting your kitchen!

Kitchen Remodeled in 211 seconds: Check out this cool video showing a kitchen transformation!

We realize that you want to get the fair market value for your home. However, if it hasn't sold in today's active real estate market, perhaps you should reconsider your current asking price.

Use the buttons below to share with your Personalized Posts profile...