How to Get Tax Credit for Improved Home Sustainability?

We now live in a day and age where it is encouraged to go green and recycle whether is electronic cars, second hand clothing or even recycling materials at your home.  We have been seeing this idea of sustainability creep into our homes more and more throughout the past few years and now the government is offering tax credits for making the upgrades.

• ·      Photovoltaic Energy System: These systems are made up of the familiar solar panels that we have been seeing more and more the past few years.  The battery cells harness the sun’s energy and transform that energy into electricity for the house.  Installing a system can reduce your home’s annual carbon dioxide output by an average of 35,180 pounds and can earn you a 30% tax credit of the cost with no upper limit.
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• ·      Windows: Swapping out old windows for newer Energy Star approved versions can save your household an average of 12% on your energy and tax credit of 10% with a limit of $200.
• ·      Insulation: Insulation improves the heating and cooling efficiency of your home, and can be self-installed in about a day.  This will give you a tax credit of up to $500.
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• ·      Residential Wind Turbines: If you live on an acre or more, you could have your own wind turbine that produces emissions-free electricity for your house.  The average cost of a residential turbine is around $30,00 with 30% of the system’s cost being credited back for taxes.
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• ·      Roofs: If your roof is needing major repairs or a replacement you may want to consider installing an Energy Star approved metal or asphalt roof.  These approved shingles have pigmented coatings or cooling granules that reduce heat retainment and can give you a 10% tax credit of the replacement cost- not including labor costs.

What are Five Kitchen Features that Families Love?

A kitchen in a family’s home is where memories are made, stories are told, and creations are created.  When it comes to the design of of the kitchen, take a look at the top five kitchen favorites.

                                  

1. 1.     The Island- An island is key for every family.  It can offer extra storage, counter space for larger meals, and even additional seating if the design allows.
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3. 2.     French Doors to the Outdoors- Opening French doors while entertaining can increase your entertaining space.  It also offers easy access for the grill and smoker.
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5. 3.     Furniture as a Built-in- Having a kitchen table and seating in the same room as the food you are preparing will save you time on clean up!  Everything will be located in one room and will offer more time for you to spend with your family.
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7. 4.     The Hide-Away Concept- Everything from toasters to mixers to coffee makers and much more can be hidden in their own cubbies and will never again clutter up your countertops.
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9. 5.     Kitchen Zones- Create stations to help you stay organized, from dishwashing, eating, cooking and more! Keep your everyday dishes next to the sink- easy access to wash and put them away.  Keep your pots and pans next to or under your stove.

What are the Home Selling Mistakes to Avoid?

Selling your home and getting it ready to sell can be very overwhelming for some people.  With the stress of packing up your belongings, picking the right agent, and right price to sell your home.  Follow these steps to avoid the mistakes.

1. 1.     Poor pricing- No matter what you buying, a consumer wants the most bang for their buck and home buying is no exception.  Homeowners tend to stay away from overly high prices and are drawn to the homes that are priced competitively.
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3. 2.     Hovering- When you are selling your home, it is a good idea not to stick around during each showing.  There are definitely emotional aspects when it comes to selling your home and hovering over a potential buyer can make it difficult.
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5. 3.     Clutter Inside and Out- First impressions are everything especially when it comes to the outside of your home.  A well-kept yard, clean driveway and overall curb appeal will increase the likelihood the buyers will want to stay and see more.  Make sure the interior of your home is absolutely clutter free and sparkling!  Help the buyer imagine their own things in your home by stashing your personal items.
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7. 4.     Lack of Appealing Photos- Before a buyer contacts an agent; they do their research online to see what the house looks like.  Be sure to provide photos that frame your house and its amenities to sell.  Capture full rooms that are well lit and don’t include pictures with clutter.