Monday, December 27, 2010
Opportunities
Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and is ready to tackle this work week. Soon enough we will be welcoming a new year that is going to hold lots of opportunities along with new and exciting challenges!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Big Ideas for Diminutive Dwellings
Tired of too much "stuff" cluttering your small space? Maybe your problem isn't even not enough space, many of us get cluttered no matter how much storage or closet room we possess. However, thanks to MSN Real Estate there are ways to improve your space without sacrificing comfort or your style!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Idaho Realtor of the Year
Quad Cities Realty is excited to inform everyone that Joe Arellano has been picked to be the new Idaho Realtor of the Year! The QCR team is very proud, and now it is time to celebrate this great accomplishment!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Check it out
Check out Trulia.com for great real estate advice!
blogs, Q&A and more! There is everything one needs to know about how to survive this stressful holiday season; along with advice for the up and coming new year.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Child-Proof the Holidays
The holiday season may be the most wonderful time of the year for many families, but for hospital emergency rooms, it is one of the busiest. KidsHealth.org offers some tips for protecting little ones from both common and unexpected holiday dangers.
Mistletoe, holly, poinsettias and other plants used as holiday decorations may be beautiful to look at, but they can be potentially poisonous and should be kept out of reach of kids. Symptoms of plant poisoning include rashes, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. "Bubble lights" also can be toxic if a child drinks the fluid from more than one light, even if the lights are labeled non-toxic, and snow sprays can be harmful if the aerosol propellants are used improperly. If a child has been poisoned or harmed, immediately call a doctor.
Choking and swallowing small objects is another potential hazard. Tree ornaments, light bulbs, icicles, tinsel and small toys can be tempting for kids to play with, but these items can block airway passages if swallowed. The general rule of thumb is that if an item is small enough to fit in the mouths of babies and toddlers, it's too small to play with.
Some holiday trees have sharp needles that can cause painful cuts in the mouth and throat when swallowed. Also, keep breakable ornaments out of kids' reach, or keep them off the tree altogether until children are older. If one does break, clean up the broken glass immediately.
Secure your tree in a sturdy stand so it won't get knocked over by kids or pets, and keep it away from all heat sources, such as electrical outlets, radiators and portable space heaters. Unplug all indoor and outdoor lights and extinguish before going to bed.
Before you put up holiday decorations, check smoke detectors to make sure they work properly. In the event of a fire, have an emergency evacuation plan in place. By practicing these simple safety tips, you and your loved ones can enjoy many holiday celebrations for years to come.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Mistletoe, holly, poinsettias and other plants used as holiday decorations may be beautiful to look at, but they can be potentially poisonous and should be kept out of reach of kids. Symptoms of plant poisoning include rashes, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. "Bubble lights" also can be toxic if a child drinks the fluid from more than one light, even if the lights are labeled non-toxic, and snow sprays can be harmful if the aerosol propellants are used improperly. If a child has been poisoned or harmed, immediately call a doctor.
Choking and swallowing small objects is another potential hazard. Tree ornaments, light bulbs, icicles, tinsel and small toys can be tempting for kids to play with, but these items can block airway passages if swallowed. The general rule of thumb is that if an item is small enough to fit in the mouths of babies and toddlers, it's too small to play with.
Some holiday trees have sharp needles that can cause painful cuts in the mouth and throat when swallowed. Also, keep breakable ornaments out of kids' reach, or keep them off the tree altogether until children are older. If one does break, clean up the broken glass immediately.
Secure your tree in a sturdy stand so it won't get knocked over by kids or pets, and keep it away from all heat sources, such as electrical outlets, radiators and portable space heaters. Unplug all indoor and outdoor lights and extinguish before going to bed.
Before you put up holiday decorations, check smoke detectors to make sure they work properly. In the event of a fire, have an emergency evacuation plan in place. By practicing these simple safety tips, you and your loved ones can enjoy many holiday celebrations for years to come.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Friday, December 3, 2010
Merry Christmas in the valley!
Come out to the Lewiston-Clarkston Christmas parade this Saturday at 4pm and see Joe as the Grand Marshall! Bring warm clothes, your family and the holiday spirit!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
Power Up
Electricity. It’s on your mind everymonth when it’s time to pay the bill and when you come home to find that porch light still on after a weekend away.
But keeping electrical maintenance top of mind can help you save on your electric bill, keep the kids safe and conserve energy.
Here are a few things to consider.
addition to stowing cords away
from pets and children, keep a close eye
on appliances that generate heat, such as
computers, televisions and dryers. Don’t
drape anything flammable over these items.
Check cords regularly for frays, cracks
or kinks and use tape or twist ties to keep
cords in place rather than securing them
with nails or staples. Covered cords generate
heat, so try to avoid covering cords
beneath flammable materials such as rugs.
Consider hiring a licensed electrical
contractor to evaluate your electrical
systems, including fuse boxes and home
electric meters to be sure they’re up to
date. And be sure to ask for tips about
possible energy-saving investments.
Try to maintain control over how much
electricity your household is using. It’s
cliché, but turning off lights and appliances
after use will greatly decrease your
electric bill.
And try running your dryer
at night, if at all. Curbing your hot water use is another way to cut electricity costs; wash clothes in cold water when you can.
Finally, consider plugging all computer, TV and DVD components into one
power strip and get into the habit of turning it off when not in use. It might seem like a hassle, but it’s an easy way to save
energy and money.
Information provided by www.crs.com
But keeping electrical maintenance top of mind can help you save on your electric bill, keep the kids safe and conserve energy.
Here are a few things to consider.
addition to stowing cords away
from pets and children, keep a close eye
on appliances that generate heat, such as
computers, televisions and dryers. Don’t
drape anything flammable over these items.
Check cords regularly for frays, cracks
or kinks and use tape or twist ties to keep
cords in place rather than securing them
with nails or staples. Covered cords generate
heat, so try to avoid covering cords
beneath flammable materials such as rugs.
Consider hiring a licensed electrical
contractor to evaluate your electrical
systems, including fuse boxes and home
electric meters to be sure they’re up to
date. And be sure to ask for tips about
possible energy-saving investments.
Try to maintain control over how much
electricity your household is using. It’s
cliché, but turning off lights and appliances
after use will greatly decrease your
electric bill.
And try running your dryer
at night, if at all. Curbing your hot water use is another way to cut electricity costs; wash clothes in cold water when you can.
Finally, consider plugging all computer, TV and DVD components into one
power strip and get into the habit of turning it off when not in use. It might seem like a hassle, but it’s an easy way to save
energy and money.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Friday, November 12, 2010
Mistaken Identity
More than 8 million
people were victims of
identity theft in 2007,
according to Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.
Most people know the
basic prevention measures, such
as committing passwords and PIN
numbers to memory and shredding
credit card receipts. But
there are other habits that can help
you prevent fraudulent activity.
Check your mail often. Identity
thieves often take pre-approved
credit card offers and sign up for
a new card to use without your
knowledge. Be sure to shred these.
Reduce the number of credit and debit cards in your wallet;
if possible, carry only one debit card for bank withdrawals and
one credit card for other purchases. Use a credit card rather
than a debit card while shopping online. You’re better protected
because credit accounts are more often monitored for unusual
charges and offer quicker ways to freeze and replace cards
than banks. Keep a list of all credit and bank card numbers and
expiration dates, as well as banking account information in a
secure place, such as a locked safe in your home.
When ordering new checks, make the trip to the bank to
pick them up rather than having them delivered. When you are
waiting for a new credit card to be delivered, be sure to call the
issuer if it hasn’t arrived within the promised amount of time to
ensure it hasn’t been stolen.
Paying bills the old-fashioned way? Park the car and deliver
mail inside the post office rather than the outside box. Neighborhood
mailboxes aren’t monitored as closely and could be
broken into, leaving your checks open to alterations by a thief.
Information provided by www.crs.com
people were victims of
identity theft in 2007,
according to Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.
Most people know the
basic prevention measures, such
as committing passwords and PIN
numbers to memory and shredding
credit card receipts. But
there are other habits that can help
you prevent fraudulent activity.
Check your mail often. Identity
thieves often take pre-approved
credit card offers and sign up for
a new card to use without your
knowledge. Be sure to shred these.
Reduce the number of credit and debit cards in your wallet;
if possible, carry only one debit card for bank withdrawals and
one credit card for other purchases. Use a credit card rather
than a debit card while shopping online. You’re better protected
because credit accounts are more often monitored for unusual
charges and offer quicker ways to freeze and replace cards
than banks. Keep a list of all credit and bank card numbers and
expiration dates, as well as banking account information in a
secure place, such as a locked safe in your home.
When ordering new checks, make the trip to the bank to
pick them up rather than having them delivered. When you are
waiting for a new credit card to be delivered, be sure to call the
issuer if it hasn’t arrived within the promised amount of time to
ensure it hasn’t been stolen.
Paying bills the old-fashioned way? Park the car and deliver
mail inside the post office rather than the outside box. Neighborhood
mailboxes aren’t monitored as closely and could be
broken into, leaving your checks open to alterations by a thief.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Friday, November 5, 2010
Great Walls!
No matter how big or small, all homes have one thing
in common: wall space. But many homeowners get
stumped by what to do with it. Walls are a blank canvas
for creating an inviting space and showing off personality,
and although homeowners’ tastes vary widely, there are a few
general ideas and guidelines to consider when deciding how
to make the best use of your walls.
Sconces are a great way to add light and style to a room.
They should be placed about six feet above the floor, and if there
are two or more, be sure to place them evenly to provide balanced
sources of lighting. If the sconce is merely an accent to
an already decorated wall, choose a simple design and a smaller
sconce, rather than upstaging what’s already there.
If art is your wall decoration of choice, it’s important to
decide on a style before choosing the paintings or photos. More
traditional decorators might go for landscapes or gardens, while
those with contemporary taste might lean toward bold, bright
colors. A little quirky? Think about framing old records or
vintage movie posters instead of ready-made pieces. Be sure
the size of the framed pieces complements the furniture in the
room — wall art shouldn’t compete. A room with minimal furniture
can have large art, but if the room already has big, ornate
pieces of furniture, keep the art minimal.
Play with groupings of framed pieces. Experts suggest combining
odd numbers such as three or five in a row or a square
block of nine small prints. Be sure the pieces are similar in color
and theme, and take time to choose a neutral colored frame.
Information provided by www.crs.com
in common: wall space. But many homeowners get
stumped by what to do with it. Walls are a blank canvas
for creating an inviting space and showing off personality,
and although homeowners’ tastes vary widely, there are a few
general ideas and guidelines to consider when deciding how
to make the best use of your walls.
Sconces are a great way to add light and style to a room.
They should be placed about six feet above the floor, and if there
are two or more, be sure to place them evenly to provide balanced
sources of lighting. If the sconce is merely an accent to
an already decorated wall, choose a simple design and a smaller
sconce, rather than upstaging what’s already there.
If art is your wall decoration of choice, it’s important to
decide on a style before choosing the paintings or photos. More
traditional decorators might go for landscapes or gardens, while
those with contemporary taste might lean toward bold, bright
colors. A little quirky? Think about framing old records or
vintage movie posters instead of ready-made pieces. Be sure
the size of the framed pieces complements the furniture in the
room — wall art shouldn’t compete. A room with minimal furniture
can have large art, but if the room already has big, ornate
pieces of furniture, keep the art minimal.
Play with groupings of framed pieces. Experts suggest combining
odd numbers such as three or five in a row or a square
block of nine small prints. Be sure the pieces are similar in color
and theme, and take time to choose a neutral colored frame.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Friday, October 29, 2010
At Home Theater
A home theater can turn a spare room into an entertainment retreat. Before you start on your project, though, you’ll need to figure out how much you can afford. A quality home theater including the components and any extras you might need, such as lighting and soundproofing, can cost $4,000 or more.
Experts at Digital Trends.com suggest using the 55-35-10 rule when budgeting for your system. Allocate 55 percent for the video system, including the screen, cable box or satellite receiver/DVR and a Blu-ray player, 35 percent for a receiver and surround-sound system and the remaining 10 percent for high-quality speaker wire and HDMI cables.
Next, decide which extras you might need. Automated lighting can help bring the whole home theater experience together, but it can be costly. For a quick, easy fix, put your lights on a dimmer that can be controlled by a universal remote. If the room has windows, install simple, opaque drapes to block out any ambient light. Or if you are willing to spend a little more, install motorized blackout shades.
Soundproofing your theater is a must. Install soundproof doors, or apply an acoustic door seal to your existing doors to reduce sound leakage. Cushy materials, like pillows and carpeting, as well as upholstered sofas and chairs will also help absorb sound.
Your home theater doesn’t have to be built in one day. Consider an all-in-one system to start, then upgrade with individual components later. And don’t forget the remote. A quality universal remote can run $100-$200. When buying new or used equipment, be sure that the electronics supplier has a good return policy in case an item is defective.
Information provided by www.crs.com Council of Residential Specialists
Experts at Digital Trends.com suggest using the 55-35-10 rule when budgeting for your system. Allocate 55 percent for the video system, including the screen, cable box or satellite receiver/DVR and a Blu-ray player, 35 percent for a receiver and surround-sound system and the remaining 10 percent for high-quality speaker wire and HDMI cables.
Next, decide which extras you might need. Automated lighting can help bring the whole home theater experience together, but it can be costly. For a quick, easy fix, put your lights on a dimmer that can be controlled by a universal remote. If the room has windows, install simple, opaque drapes to block out any ambient light. Or if you are willing to spend a little more, install motorized blackout shades.
Soundproofing your theater is a must. Install soundproof doors, or apply an acoustic door seal to your existing doors to reduce sound leakage. Cushy materials, like pillows and carpeting, as well as upholstered sofas and chairs will also help absorb sound.
Your home theater doesn’t have to be built in one day. Consider an all-in-one system to start, then upgrade with individual components later. And don’t forget the remote. A quality universal remote can run $100-$200. When buying new or used equipment, be sure that the electronics supplier has a good return policy in case an item is defective.
Information provided by www.crs.com Council of Residential Specialists
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Listings
Quad Cities Realty has new listings!
Check them out on our website, www.qcrhomes.com
Our Elk City Idaho Real Estate page is brand new up and running, browse through the website to see new cabin openings, plus hunting and fishing tips!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Financial
Do you have difficulty managing your finances, paying bills on time or finding important receipts or documents when you need them?
The Financial Fitness Association offers several guidelines that can help you keep your financial life in order.
Tax returns and their supporting documents should be kept at least three years. It may be helpful to set up file folders with different headings, such as 1099s, medical expenses, and business expenses. As you receive tax documents or pay an expense, put the accompanying document or receipt in the appropriate file.
Have a plan to keep important legal documents, such as wills, powers of attorney, birth certificates, marriage documents, divorce papers, child care orders, trust documents, business agreements and military records, permanently. Wills should be kept in an easily accessible place, and a copy should be kept in a safe deposit box and with your attorney. Note the location of the original will on the copies.
Some documents need to be kept only for as long as they are needed. For example, deeds and real estate documents should be kept for as long as you own a property, plus any additional period for tax purposes. Insurance policies, loan documents, investment information, receipts and warranty information on major purchases should also be kept for as long as you hold the policy, loan, investment or purchase.
Keep monthly bank statements for at least three years to document payments for important items. Cancelled checks may be discarded since the bank statement itemizes these payments, with the exception of those checks that support any tax deductions you might have. Credit card statements can be kept for a year to track expenses or to document a disputed charge.
Following a simple system to keep financial and legal documents organized enables you to find these items more easily, thus saving time and giving you some much-needed peace of mind.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Monday, September 20, 2010
Unemployed Homeowners
Unemployed homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage may be eligible to receive financial assistance through two new federal foreclosure-prevention programs facilitated by the U.S. Treasury Department and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The Treasury Department has made $2 billion of additional assistance available through the Housing Finance Agency’s (HFA) Hardest Hit Fund to help homeowners who are struggling to make their mortgage payments due to unemployment.
HUD also announced a $1 billion Emergency Homeowners Loan Program to assist homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure and have experienced reduced income due to job loss, underemployment or a medical condition for up to 24 months.
HUD also announced a $1 billion Emergency Homeowners Loan Program to assist homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure and have experienced reduced income due to job loss, underemployment or a medical condition for up to 24 months.
To qualify for this program, borrowers must meet the following criteria:
· They are at least three months delinquent on their mortgage payments and
have a reasonable likelihood of being able to resume repayment within two years.
· The mortgage must be for the borrower’s principal residence.
· Borrowers may not own a second home.
· Borrowers must demonstrate a good payment record prior to the event that produced the loss of income.
Seventeen states and the District of Columbia which had an unemployment rate at or above the national average over the past 12 months are eligible to receive assistance under the Hardest Hit Fund. States will use the funds to develop programs that provide temporary mortgage assistance to eligible homeowners while they continue to seek employment or get job training. Eligible states include: Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee and Washington, D.C.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Building Codes
Want to build a new staircase or add a porch to
your home? In addition to researching costs, be
sure to find out if your new project adheres to
local building codes.
Your contractor should know associated building codes
for specific projects, but if you want to do your own additional
research, there are a few ways to find up-to-date
codes. The best way to find them — collectively called
International Building Codes (IBC) — is to head to the
reference section of your local library. Or you can find an
explanation of codes on the building section of
your local county and
state government
websites. You should be able to find codes within these department websites. The International Code Council (iccsafe.org) is dedicated to developing a
single set of comprehensive and coordinated national model
construction codes, and also can offer insight on building codes. Common
queries might include how large a building can be
in a specific area or mandatory fire prevention additions.
These codes are available in print form, but
the codes are updated frequently, so it’s best
to go to the website for the most recent versions
of codes.
Information provided by www.crs.com
your home? In addition to researching costs, be
sure to find out if your new project adheres to
local building codes.
Your contractor should know associated building codes
for specific projects, but if you want to do your own additional
research, there are a few ways to find up-to-date
codes. The best way to find them — collectively called
International Building Codes (IBC) — is to head to the
reference section of your local library. Or you can find an
explanation of codes on the building section of
your local county and
state government
websites. You should be able to find codes within these department websites. The International Code Council (iccsafe.org) is dedicated to developing a
single set of comprehensive and coordinated national model
construction codes, and also can offer insight on building codes. Common
queries might include how large a building can be
in a specific area or mandatory fire prevention additions.
These codes are available in print form, but
the codes are updated frequently, so it’s best
to go to the website for the most recent versions
of codes.
Information provided by www.crs.com
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Lewiston ID, Clarkston WA, Asotin WA MLS Statistics
Statistics are from the Lewis-Clark Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service. Lewiston includes the Orchards, Elks, Country Club area, Cougar Ridge and Harvest Vista. Clarkston includes the Heights, Downtown and the Quail Ridge area. These figures are based on listings entered into the MLS and reflect single-family residential listings.
2010-2009 Year to Date statistics as of Aug. 31, 2010. The Year to Date average sales price shows a 5.3% increase since 2009. The number of home sales is also up from last year.
2010 Statistics2010-2009 Year to Date statistics as of Aug. 31, 2010. The Year to Date average sales price shows a 5.3% increase since 2009. The number of home sales is also up from last year.
Local Stats:
sold-
Number of listings: 405
Average Price: $171,655 (+5.3%)
Median Price: $155,000 (3.2%)
Average DOM: 136
2009 Statistics
Local Stats:
sold-
Number of listings: 392
Average Price: $162,533
Median Price: $150,000
Average DOM: 132
2009-2007 Year end totals from January 1st-December 31st
2009 Statistics
Local Stats:
sold-
Number of listings: 613
Average Price: $160,643
Median Price: $150,000
Average DOM: 129
2008 Statistics
Local Stats:
sold-
Number of listings: 614
Average Price: $176,606
Median Price: $157,000
Average DOM: 108
2007 Statistics
Local Stats:
Sold-
Number of Listings: 754
Average Price: $169,593 (+4.7)
Median Price: $153,000 (+5.9)
Average DOM: 98
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
In-home Oasis
We all know that this time of the year can be extremely chaotic. Kids are once again headed back to school, which means parents have become full time shuttlers to and from school events; while at the same time juggling work and home life. The Council of Residential Specialists wants to give you a quick and easy source of relaxation in your own home!
About.com suggests finding a
quiet corner to designate as your
in-house oasis. Even if it’s not an
entire room, be sure your in-house
oasis has a different feel than the
rest of the house. (If it’s just a
section of a room, invest in a lightweight
screen to separate it from
the rest of the area.)
Make sure it’s
away from technology, including telephones,
computers or the television.
(And resist the urge to check work
e-mail or bring your BlackBerry.)
Add to the relaxing ambiance by painting
the walls a soothing color. Experts recommend pale blues and
greens or neutrals such as taupe, beige or brown. Avoid jarring,
energetic shades such as bright yellows or reds. If you do add
color, keep it monochromatic so vivid contrasts aren’t distracting.
Next, get rid of clutter. Then set up a big, comfy armchair
and a small table that’s just big enough for a steaming mug
of tea, perhaps a plate of food and a lamp. Less is more when
decorating for stress relief. Add serene family photos to the
walls so you’ll be surrounded by the ones you love, and consider
placing candles in the area. Choose scents such
as lavender, sandalwood or sage, which can have
a calming effect on the mind and body.
information provided by www.crs.com
Friday, August 27, 2010
Home Features
The Top Ten Most Sought-After Home Features Are:
1. Garage or parking space
2. Master suite
3. Ample storage space
4. Large or walk-in closets
5. Guest bedroom
6. Outdoor entertainment area
7. Gourmet or updated kitchen
8. Breakfast room or eat-in kitchen
9. large yard
10. Wood floors
Information provided by www.crs.com (Council of Residential Specialists)
Don't forget to check our website to receive the latest listings in the Lewis-Clark valley! www.qcrhomes.com
1. Garage or parking space
2. Master suite
3. Ample storage space
4. Large or walk-in closets
5. Guest bedroom
6. Outdoor entertainment area
7. Gourmet or updated kitchen
8. Breakfast room or eat-in kitchen
9. large yard
10. Wood floors
Information provided by www.crs.com (Council of Residential Specialists)
Don't forget to check our website to receive the latest listings in the Lewis-Clark valley! www.qcrhomes.com
Friday, July 23, 2010
Visit our website at www.qcrhomes.com to get the latest listings and review our new Community page. The Community page is located under the heading Information; here you will find helpful information for Lewiston Idaho, Clarkston Washington and surrounding areas.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Lewiston ID, Clarkston WA, Asotin WA MLS Statistics
Statistics are from the Lewis-Clark Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service. Lewiston includes the Orchards, Elks, Country Club area, Cougar Ridge and Harvest Vista. Clarkston includes the Heights, Downtown and the Quail Ridge area. These figures are based on listings entered into the MLS and reflect single-family residential listings.
2010 Statistics
Local Stats:
Sold-
Number of listings: 310
Average Price: 169,852 (+ 3.4%)
Median Price: 155,000 (+1.6%)
Average DOM: 139
2009 Statistics
Local Stats:
Sold-
Number of Listings: 296
Average Price: 164,054 (-6.8%)
Median Price: 152,500 (-4.6%)
Average DOM: 134
2008 Statistics
Local Stats:
sold-
Number of listings: 337
Average Price: 176,179
Median Price: 159,900
Average DOM: 113
2007 Statistics
Local Stats:
Sold-
Number of Listings: 754
Average Price: 169,593 (+4.7)
Median Price: 153,000 (+5.9)
Average DOM: 98
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Lewis-Clark Valley is known for it's fun and exciting summers, this weekend on Saturday, July 17, Rockin' on the River begins!
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts will be the performers this year, and the event will take place at Gateway Golf Center in Clarkston Washington.
Whether you are a new or current resident, Rockin' on the River is a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon with family or friends!
For ticket information please go to http://rockinontheriver.org/
Quad Cities Realty hopes to see you out there this weekend experiencing the Lewis-Clark Valley summer lifestyle!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Turning down the thermostat and switching to compact fluorescent bulbs are easy but common ways to make your home greener. Here are a few additional greening tips and tricks that may have never crossed your mind.
Over the top. A refrigerator with a freezer on top uses 10 percent to 25 percent less energy than one with a side-by-side or bottom-mounted freezer.
Power up. Plug appliances and electronics into a power strip rather than an outlet. Devices plugged directly into the wall leak up to 15 watts of electricity even if they’re shut off.
Dish it out. Hand-washing dishes might seem better for Mother Earth than using the dishwasher, but it’s actually more wasteful. You’ll use up to 35 percent less water by filling up the dishwasher with dishes that aren’t pre-rinsed instead of washing by hand. You can also conserve energy by skipping the dry cycle — just open the dishwasher’s door when the cycle is done to air dry.
Don’t tank. Invest in a tankless water heater that will heat water instantly on an as-needed basis, instead of one that must constantly keep your water warm. They can be expensive—prices range from just under $200 to more than $1,000—but it will help reduce energy costs in the long run and reduce water loss. Don’t want to buy one? Be sure to insulate your pipes for a good reduction in heat loss.
Courtesy of www.crs.com
Over the top. A refrigerator with a freezer on top uses 10 percent to 25 percent less energy than one with a side-by-side or bottom-mounted freezer.
Power up. Plug appliances and electronics into a power strip rather than an outlet. Devices plugged directly into the wall leak up to 15 watts of electricity even if they’re shut off.
Dish it out. Hand-washing dishes might seem better for Mother Earth than using the dishwasher, but it’s actually more wasteful. You’ll use up to 35 percent less water by filling up the dishwasher with dishes that aren’t pre-rinsed instead of washing by hand. You can also conserve energy by skipping the dry cycle — just open the dishwasher’s door when the cycle is done to air dry.
Don’t tank. Invest in a tankless water heater that will heat water instantly on an as-needed basis, instead of one that must constantly keep your water warm. They can be expensive—prices range from just under $200 to more than $1,000—but it will help reduce energy costs in the long run and reduce water loss. Don’t want to buy one? Be sure to insulate your pipes for a good reduction in heat loss.
Courtesy of www.crs.com
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Considering a move to a new city? Before you pack your bags and hire a moving company, be sure to research the potential price tag of relocating. It may cost more than you think. Cost of living can vary greatly from town to town, so be sure to do some research before taking the plunge. Better Homes and Gardens recommends browsing the local newspaper for grocery promotions, ads, and other local news to track costs so you can put those figures into a worksheet and determine the income you might need. While several cost-of-living calculators are available on the Internet, they provide only general figures and don’t take into account specific housing needs.
Be sure to ask a Certified Residential Specialist in your target area about “hidden” homeownership costs, such as recreation fees, trash collection and community services. Try to obtain a one-year sampling of utility bills for the type of home you’re considering. What can you expect to pay for telephone, cable TV and Internet services? Will you have your own septic tank and water pump, or will the community provide water service?
There are a host of other expenses to consider. What taxes will you pay? Higher taxes may mean better schools, libraries, trash collection and other community services, while lower taxes could mean higher expenses for these services. But it pays to have all the facts before you make a move.
Likewise, transportation and parking costs often are higher in larger cities, while a small-town commute can mean a short walk or bike ride. Also, gas prices can be more costly in some areas than in others.
Leisure time costs can add up as well. How much more will you have to pay for tennis or health club memberships, adult education classes and golf course fees?
Moving away from family and friends can mean more frequent phone calls and trips back home, so be sure to allow for those additional costs as well.
Courtesy of www.CRS.com
Be sure to ask a Certified Residential Specialist in your target area about “hidden” homeownership costs, such as recreation fees, trash collection and community services. Try to obtain a one-year sampling of utility bills for the type of home you’re considering. What can you expect to pay for telephone, cable TV and Internet services? Will you have your own septic tank and water pump, or will the community provide water service?
There are a host of other expenses to consider. What taxes will you pay? Higher taxes may mean better schools, libraries, trash collection and other community services, while lower taxes could mean higher expenses for these services. But it pays to have all the facts before you make a move.
Likewise, transportation and parking costs often are higher in larger cities, while a small-town commute can mean a short walk or bike ride. Also, gas prices can be more costly in some areas than in others.
Leisure time costs can add up as well. How much more will you have to pay for tennis or health club memberships, adult education classes and golf course fees?
Moving away from family and friends can mean more frequent phone calls and trips back home, so be sure to allow for those additional costs as well.
Courtesy of www.CRS.com
Welcome to Quad Cities Realty blog spot!
Quad Cities Realty has been serving the Lewis-Clark Valley and surrounding areas for six years, and is family owned and operated by Joe and Michele Arellano. Quad Cities Realty designed this blog to help keep residents and future residents updated with the latest news and information. Check our blog and website http://www.qcrhomes.com/ frequently for new local listings and helpful information!
Quad Cities Realty has been serving the Lewis-Clark Valley and surrounding areas for six years, and is family owned and operated by Joe and Michele Arellano. Quad Cities Realty designed this blog to help keep residents and future residents updated with the latest news and information. Check our blog and website http://www.qcrhomes.com/ frequently for new local listings and helpful information!
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