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Real Estate Tips May 8, 2023

Things to Know Before Installing Solar Panels

So, you are thinking about installing solar panels.  Here are things you sold know before installing solar panels.  Solar panels typically cost between $15 – 30K.  On average, solar panels save 10- 30K over the lifetime of the system.

Installing solar panels is a great way to generate clean and renewable energy for your home or business. Before you decide to install solar panels, there are several important things you should consider:

Your energy usage: The first step in determining whether solar panels are right for you is to understand your energy usage. You should review your electricity bills to determine how much energy you use and when you use it. This information will help you determine the size of the solar system you need to install.

Your roof: Your roof should be in good condition and should have a suitable orientation and tilt for solar panels. Ideally, your roof should face south and have a pitch of between 15 and 40 degrees. You should also make sure that your roof is structurally sound and can support the weight of the solar panels.

Local regulations: Before you install solar panels, you should check your local regulations to ensure that you are allowed to do so. Some areas have zoning laws, building codes, and homeowner association rules that may restrict or regulate solar panel installations.

Incentives and financing options: There are various incentives and financing options available to help offset the cost of solar panel installation. You should research and compare these options to determine what works best for you.

Maintenance: Solar panels require little maintenance, but you should still consider the cost of routine inspections and cleaning. You should also check your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure that your solar panels are covered.

Insurance:  You should also check with your homeowner’s insurance to find out if installation of solar panels will increase your premium.

Installation and warranty: It’s important to choose a reputable solar panel installer who can ensure that your system is installed correctly and meets all safety standards. You should also ask about the warranty and what is covered, including the panels, inverter, and installation.

By considering these factors before installing solar panels, you can make an informed decision about whether solar energy is right for you and what type of system will work best for your needs.

You can compare solar quotes on Energysage.com or sunrun.com.

Real Estate Tips May 3, 2023

Staging – What is it and Why do it?

Staging is often thought of as placing furniture and decor in a vacant home.  Staging is more than that.  Staging is using a homeowner’s belongings to maximize the home’s space and appeal to sell for the most $ and in the shortest amount of time.  Data shows that staged homes in the Okaloosa/Walton area sell on average 5-11 faster than non-staged homes.  Logically it follows then they sell for 5-20% higher (since more days on market = lower selling price, a discussion for another day).

90% of buyers look at homes for sale online prior to deciding whether to view them in person.  Staged homes in conjunction with professional photos results in better images online.

Staging allows buyers to image themselves living in your home.  Buyers, home inspectors and property appraisers generally view staged homes as well cared for.

Is staging expensive – not when you work with me.  Contact me to find out more.

Real Estate Tips April 24, 2023

Music to Sell Your Home

Real Estate Tips July 22, 2022

Prepping your Home to Sell

When prepping your home for selling, start with your front entrance.  This is the first thing buyers will see.  Power-wash the exterior. A fresh coat of paint on your front door can go a long way.  Practice thorough yard maintenance – Trim bushes & trees and add some fresh mulch. Reseal cracks in concrete areas. Clean and align gutters and downspouts. Sweep walks and driveway.  Wash windows.

Next, thoroughly clean the interior.  Repair damage to all indoor surfaces.  Repair drippy faucets and showerheads.  Unclog slow drains and make sure all sink stoppers are functioning.  Shampoo carpets, scrub and wax wood floors.  Clean out the fireplace.  Mend torn screens & clean out window tracks.  Replace burned-out light bulbs.  Re-nail creaking boards or stairs; lubricate squeaking doors.  Clean all appliances.   Wash all light switches, handrails and doorknobs.  Repair wobbling ceiling fans.  Clean AC intakes and vents.  Clean walls and baseboards or give a fresh coat of paint.

Declutter:  If you don’t plan to move it, remove it.  Pack away items you will move but don’t need over the next few months.  Empty the floor of closets if possible.