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82Costs and Benefits of Low Solar Gain Windows
by Elle MacKenna
The shading capacity of low solar gain windows makes them useful in southern climates that have long cooling seasons. While solar gain is just one of many factors that determine a window’s energy performance, understanding the principles, costs and proper applications of low solar gain windows can help you save energy and money...read more published 2 years ago
82Alternatives to Double Pane Windows
by Elle MacKenna
Windows have become a central focus in energy efficient building strategies. Newer technologies including double and triple glazing have helped boost window performance but these upgrades can be expensive and, depending on where you live, not necessarily the most cost-effective. Before you make a significant investment in double pane replacement windows, consider some alternatives. published 17 months ago
79Sell Solar Power Into Your Grid and Make Money
by Elle MacKenna
A recent New York Times article blasted solar energy systems as making “no economic sense.” The truth: solar photovoltaic systems aren’t cheap but they do payback. Sales of solar photovoltaic systems have been rising up to 50% annually in some states and it’s not just environmental do-gooders who are investing in the renewable energy. For many homeowners, solar energy is about dollars and cents. published 18 months ago
79Does Solar Make Sense for Your House?
by Elle MacKenna
Mention solar energy and many people cringe at the thought of the aesthetics, but solar design has come a long way. Technology and implementation are constantly advancing creating new ways to capture this renewable energy. The truth is solar energy is a consideration for every home, no matter where you live. The question is really what kind of solar is right for you? published 2 years ago
78Saving Water in the Bathroom: High-efficiency Toilets and Showers
by Elle MacKenna
Fresh water is a finite resource but nearly half the water that passes through the pipes in a typical home goes to waste. If you live in a “water-rich” region it’s easy to take it for granted but nearly 75% of the states in the U.S. expect a local, regional or statewide water shortage within the next five years. Wasting water depletes this quickly diminishing resource and can cost you money. There are simple ways to cut down your water usage without compromising comfort. Here’s how… published 17 months ago
77How the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Can Lower Your Energy Bills
by Elle MacKenna
An energy efficient home provides lifelong savings. Unfortunately, most homes in the United States are not operating at their maximum energy performance. One of the best ways to improve your home's energy efficiency and lower your energy bills is with a professional home energy rating...here's how published 18 months ago
76Homethinking.com: Ranking Real Estate Agents
by Elle MacKenna
Imagine if you could find reviews of your real estate agent online? That’s the idea behind Homethinking.com, a website aimed at helping home buyers and sellers find top agents. It’s a great idea but since its launch in late 2005, Homethinking.com has yet to reach its potential as a useful resource for consumers. published 18 months ago
77Hiring a Buyer Agent
by Elle MacKenna
The internet is providing home buyers with easy access to property listings but it can be tricky to navigate the real estate process when it comes time to purchase. The best way to safeguard your investment and ensure that your best interests are protected is to hire a buyer agent. published 18 months ago
75Tips for Buyers in a Soft Real Estate Market
by Elle MacKenna
A drop in existing home sales at the end of 2006 marked a decline not seen for over two decades. For sellers, this is not good news and means there is more supply than demand. However, the sun is starting to shine on savvy buyers who’ve waited patiently for the right time to invest. published 2 years ago
73How Property Values are Determined
by Elle MacKenna
Over the past decade, homeowners have enjoyed skyrocketing home values. At the same time, buyers have been struggling to find reasonable digs at affordable prices. High or low, how are property values determined? Read more… published 2 years ago
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