A Monthly Newsletter from TheTrentiniTeam with F.C.TuckerEmge Realtors

BRING ON THE MAY FLOWERS

Did you know that, on average, quality landscaping adds 5 to 11 percent value to your home? Even if you’re not looking to sell landscaping is an improvement that appreciates over time. Here are some ideas to get a head start:

If you’re selling in a year or less

If you’re looking to buy a new home and sell your current one, you’re likely on a budget and short on time. Consider these simple enhancements:

· Edge the beds and nourish the grass – a clean, well-kept lawn gives a great first impression.

· Add some color –

There are a lot of inexpensive flower varieties that can make your home stand out to potential buyers.

· Pay attention to your selection– Buyers will appreciate plant, tree and flower varieties that are low-maintenance and require less water.

If you’re improving for the long-term:

· Make your backyard your space – A fence is a great investment for added privacy and one that will pay off if you decide to sell.

· Trim down, add drama –

Cut down overgrown, out-of-control bushes and add some exotic varieties to give your yard a unique look.

· Change your view –

Stemming away from traditional plant patterns can help accentuate your home’s best features. If you’re not sure, many nurseries offer free design help.

Herb gardens add fragrance and provide great options for fresh summer recipes. Here’s a great one to try:

Easy Grilled Pork Chops with Fresh Herbs

Ingredients

· 2 (1-inch thick) bone-in pork chops

· Salt and pepper to taste

· Extra virgin olive oil

· 1 tablespoon chopped mixed

· herbs (such as parsley, thyme and chives)

Method

Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Lightly brush both sides of the chops with oil, then set aside on a plate at room temperature
for 20 minutes.

Grill chops over direct medium heat, turning once, for 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a platter and set aside to let rest for 5 minutes. Garnishwith herbs and serve.

A Monthly Newsletter from TheTrentiniTeam with F.C.TuckerEmge Realtors

TRIMMING COSTS STARTS AT HOME

 

Many Americans have resolved to cut costs in 2011. One of the best places to start is in your home. There are several low-cost ways to create significant savings on your utility bills throughout the lifetime of your home.

 

 

Check for leaks.

Cold air seeping in through your doors and windows and weak spots in your insulation can have a huge impact on your energy costs. Test for these issues by taking infrared images, conducting a blower door test, or simply locating cool air by touch. You can save 10 percent on your energy bill by plugging air leaks with caulking, sealing or weather stripping.

 

 

Upgrade your attic insulation.

This simple, inexpensive solution can reduce your home's heating and cooling costs by as much as 30 percent. The recommended insulation level is 12-15 inches, depending on the insulation type.

 

 

Take a close look at your windows.

Windows can also account for 10-25 percent of your heating bill in the winter and can kick your air conditioner into overdrive in the summer by letting sunlight in. Consider installing energy-efficient windows to help block solar heat. If that’s not in your budget, simply modifying your window treatments with thicker or longer curtains can also help lower bills too.

Upgrade your appliances.

Swapping out all appliances isn’t realistic for most homeowners, but if you’re in the market for a new washer, dryer or fridge, consider an Energy Star product.

 

Check your filters.

Dirty filters slow down airflow, making your system work harder to keep your home warm or cool. Clean filters also prevent dust and dirt buildup – an issue that can lead to expensive repairs or system replacement. Filters should be replaced every three months.

 

Swap old light bulbs for new, energy-efficient ones.

Energy-efficient light bulbs require much less power to provide the same amount of light for a much longer time.

Make small adjustments

to your routine.

-Turn off lights and electronics when  

 they’re not in use.

-Do laundry and wash dishes in the

 evenings instead of midday, when

 usage is typically greatest.

-Wash clothes and dishes in hot water,

 but rinse them in warm rather than

 hot to save heating costs.

-Don't run the dishwasher until it's full

 or consider washing dishes by

 hand occasionally.

-Don’t use too many appliances at

 the same time.

 

Picking up on small changes can make a huge impact on electric and energy usage. For more on what you can do to save on home costs, follow Energy Star’s Maintenance Checklist.

When searching for a home service agreement, check to see if plumbing stoppages are included. Sometimes they are not covered at all and other times you may have to pay extra. With a HomeTrust home service agreement, plumbing stoppages are covered under the standard coverage.

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