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86Costs 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 16 months ago
82Sell 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 15 months ago
82Does Zillow Overestimate?
by Elle MacKenna
Zillow is great, but not for the reasons you might think. Zillow is a valuable online tool that allows visitors to peruse home values nationwide. Does Zillow overestimate? Yes. Can you use it anyway? You bet. Read more… published 16 months ago
72Tips for Sellers in a Soft Real Estate Market
by Elle MacKenna
The real estate market is not crashing. It’s following some predictable economic patterns of correction. This year’s market is getting better for buyers but sellers are still in the game. Get informed, get your home prepared and make the most of it. published 16 months ago
65Save Water and Money with Environmentally Friendly Landscaping
by Elle MacKenna
We all enjoy natural beauty, especially at home where we can choose to surround ourselves with our favorite plants and flowers. It can take a lot of effort to achieve the landscape of our dreams but did you know that environmentally friendly landscaping saves money, time and water? A truly green yard and garden is less work. Read more… published 14 months 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 14 months ago
77A Guide to Selling Your Home Yourself - RedFin, FSBO and More
by Elle MacKenna
If you are willing to do the legwork, there’s no reason you can’t sell your home yourself. Plus, the past decade has seen a rise in the number of limited service brokers and real estate marketing companies offering flat fee services to do-it-yourself sellers. Get informed about the FSBO resources available... read more published 17 months ago
72How to Save on Real Estate Commissions
by Elle MacKenna
Homeowners aren’t always aware that the real estate commission rate is an adjustable factor in the terms of their contract. When considering a selling agreement, homeowners should look to negotiate commission rates as a way to retain the equity in their home. Here's how... published 17 months ago
61Choosing the Right Seller Agent
by Elle MacKenna
You’ve made the decision to sell and want to use a real estate agent to get the most out of your investment. Now what? Your agent will be your representative, your advocate and your key to a successful transaction so don’t hire a seller agent, hire the right seller agent. Here’s how… published 16 months ago
65What Your Realtor Can't Tell You
by Elle MacKenna
Realtors can offer buyers a considerable amount of consolidated information but there are certain things that they simply cannot discuss with clients. Fair Housing laws define the role of a real estate agent as matching buyers with properties, not filtering information about local demographics. Find out where to get the facts... published 16 months ago
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