Archive for the ‘Homeowners Tips’ Category

10 Low-Cost Tips to Cool Your Thomasville Home this Summer

Monday, August 2nd, 2010

Thermometer

If higher electric rates and lower budgets have you searching for creative ways to cool your Thomasville home without spending more, read on:

1.      Stop generating heat.  Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.  Lower the thermostat on your water heater.  Air dry your dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s dry cycle.  Grill outdoors or use your microwave instead of your oven.

2.      Install shades or blinds.  The best way to keep your Thomasville home cool is to keep the heat out.  White window shades, drapes, or blinds reflect heat away from your house. Close blinds, shades and draperies facing the sun to keep the sun’s heat out and help fans or air conditioners cool more efficiently.

3.      Use a programmable thermostat.  Automatically adjust your air conditioner’s setting at night or when no one is home.

4.      Improve your air conditioner’s efficiency.  Add insulation around A/C ducts that are in hot spaces such as attics, crawl spaces and garages.  Make sure your fireplace damper is closed.

5.      Turn on a fan.  Whether you use a box fan, a ceiling fan or an oscillating fan, this one appliance can make your room feel 6 to 7 degrees cooler.  You can keep a fan on for 12 hours a day and still spend less than $10 a month on electricity for it.

6.      Open your windows.  Once the sun goes down, and it gets cooler outside than inside, turn off your A/C and open your windows.  Getting a breeze of fresh air after your home has been closed up all day is very refreshing.

7.      Run your Central Air fan.  Check your thermostat to see if it allows you to run your fan without engaging the air conditioner.  By running your fan, the air circulates throughout your home balancing out any cold or hot spots.  This makes your entire home feel more comfortable.  Additionally, allergens that entered your home when your windows were open (see tip 6) will be trapped by the Central Air’s filter. 

8.      Move heat generating appliances.  Don’t place lamps or TVs near your air conditioner’s thermostat. The heat from these appliances will cause the air conditioner to run longer.

9.      Live in your lowest level.  Because heat rises, the first floor of your home is naturally cooler than the upper levels.  Spend as much time as possible in the lowest level of your home this summer.  If the majority of your time is spent there, you may want to close up the A/C vents in the unused upper levels to save even more money.

10.  Hang laundry outside to dry.  Your clothes dryer is like a spinning oven.  Don’t heat up your home by turning it on.  Instead, go for the green fix and hang your laundry outside to dry.  If your neighborhood bans outdoor clotheslines, wait until the cooler evening hours to use your dryer. 

Stay cool and enjoy your summer for less!

How do you save on energy bills?  We’d love to hear your ideas.  Post a comment here, or email your tips to us at info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags:
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

How to Set a Kitchen Renovation Budget on Thomasville Homes

Wednesday, July 21st, 2010

Kitchen_RenovationThere are many Thomasville homes currently for sale.  An obvious question you must ask yourself in today’s market is how to make your home stand out.

Whether you’re a real estate investor wanting to flip several Thomasville homes or a homeowner selling your current home, one of the top ways to increase your home’s value is remodeling the kitchen.  The kitchen is the central meeting place of the American family and people want it to be modern and up to date.

Do a Price Comparison among Thomasville Homes 

Your renovation budget is one of the primary concerns to take into account before you begin.  The current value of your home, as compared to other homes in your neighborhood, is one way to determine how much you should spend on your kitchen renovation.

♦   Higher Price Range = Lower Budget Needed. Is your home worth about the same or more than most homes in your neighborhood?  This indicates a diminished chance of selling for much more, even after enhancements.  Stick with a moderate budget.  This may seem contrary to instinct but it’s true.

♦ Lower Price Range = Higher Budget Needed. On the other hand, if your home is appraising lower than those in the area (or is decidedly on the lower end of the scale) investing more in excellent kitchen remodeling is a great way to increase the value of your home.

Overspending Yields Lower Rate of Return

Investing too much on one aspect of your home (especially a home that’s already approaching the price ceiling for the area) is a potential money burner.  Keep a moderate budget, and if you have more money to spend, invest it in other areas of your home (exterior improvements, for example).

Perception Is Reality

Once you decide on a budget, remember that appearance is everything.  Faux marble, for instance, looks about as nice as marble.  The only reason for genuine marble or solid oak is bragging rights.  A new faucet on a moderately up-to-date sink is almost as impressive visually as a totally new sink.

“Do one thing… And do it well,” applies here.  If you must add luxury, add it to one element and cover the rest with perception strategies.

If you’d like additional advice on the home improvements that are most likely to increase the value of your home, We’d be happy to help.  Call First Thomasville Realty today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

5 Tips to Creating Stress-Free Thomasville Homes

Monday, July 19th, 2010

Stress_FreeMany people have trouble relaxing, even in their Thomasville homes.  Why?  Frequently, it’s because of too much visual stimuli such as unfinished projects, knickknacks and clutter.

You may think the answer to being able to relax is to move into a “better” home.  However, what usually happens is that you move your unfinished projects and clutter with you.  Instead, if you take the time to get organized, you may find – like many owners who have backed out of a sale – that you don’t need to move, you just need to re-organize.

Take a moment from your busy, stressful life to read these tips and discover how you can improve and de-stress your personal castle:

1.  Add money to your wallet. Unwanted or unused items can be turned into cash. eBay and Craigslist are two heavily-used websites where you can sell your unwanted/unused items.  Make a little cash and clear the clutter.

2.  Be generous. If you don’t want to sell your items, don’t throw them away.  Donate them to places such as Goodwill.  Online, there’s FreeCycle, where you can share your items and give them away to those who really need them.

3.  Keep it clean. Set up a system to decide what to do with mail. Many people end up with piles of mail throughout the house. Rather than letting it pile up, decide the day you get it where that mail goes: trash, take action or file away.

4.  Include your family in the de-clutter process. After all, your spouse and kids live there, too. As well, if others have a chance to give their input, they may be more willing to keep your Thomasville home organized. Let others in your family have a part in the decision-making process and implementation.

5.  Take stray worry off your mind. You may be subconsciously worried about things in your home. Reduce the potential stress by creating a sense of safety. For instance, make sure your smoke detectors are working, that you have a radon meter (if necessary) and a carbon monoxide detector.

You may be thinking, “Home isn’t what stresses me out.”  Are you sure?  You might be pleasantly surprised how relaxed you’ll be when your home is de-cluttered. Your Thomasville home can truly become a place where you leave the stress at the door.

If you’re looking for a home to relax in after a hard day, First Thomasville Realty can help.  Call now at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags:
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Should You Add a Pool to Your Thomasville Home?

Wednesday, July 14th, 2010

Thomasville_PoolThere are many home improvements that add value to your Thomasville home, but none add quite as much fun as a pool. Depending on where your home is located, having a pool may increase re-sale value because buyers in certain areas look for homes that already have pools installed.

A pool can provide relaxation, recreation, and health benefits during the summer months, and in some areas of the country, all year long. Before you get started putting in that pool, there are a few things to be aware of and prepare for.

Usage

The first thing to consider before you decide on adding a pool to your Thomasville home is how often you will actually use it. Pool maintenance and installation are expensive, so if you can’t use it often, adding a pool doesn’t make much sense.

Surface Area

Before beginning construction of either an above-ground or in-ground pool, you need to check your surface area—not the pool’s, your land’s. It should be relatively flat. If your Thomasville home is on an incline, you need to create a stable, level base, and that could add a great deal of expense to your pool construction.

Air Space

The air above the site for your pool is important too.  Most importantly, never place a pool beneath electrical wires.  The area above your pool should also be clear of hanging branches.   In fact, it’s a good idea to choose a spot with no close trees. While they make for great shade in the hot summer sun, they also make for harder clean-up and constant skimming because of falling leaves.

Fence it In

There is one final consideration before you jump in—a fence. A security fence is important to keep neighborhood children from invading your pool when you aren’t around.  A fence is also a crucial safety feature for pets and people.  You don’t want anyone or anything accidentally falling into your pool.

If you would like to buy or sell a Thomasville home with a pool, We can help. Contact First Thomasville Realty today at 229-226-6515 or info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags:
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Is Your Thomasville Home Making You Sick?

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010

HomeMakingYouSick_webUnexplained headaches and nausea, getting sick more often than normal, showing signs of allergies that have never been there before – your Thomasville home may be making you sick. 

How do you find out if your Thomasville home is making you sick? Look for individual sources of pollution: 

♦    Tobacco smoke – If you’re a smoker, smoke outside. Sitting in a cloud can cause dizziness, nausea and other side effects. These problems are especially harsh if you’re a non-smoker in a home full of smoke. As well, the smoke settles into fabrics and on walls and ceilings for the carcinogens to be released into the air on a regular basis. 

♦    Radon – Because radon is odorless and invisible, the best way to find out if you have a problem is to have a radon test done on your home.  The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all homes be tested.  

♦    Asbestos – Pretty much everyone knows that asbestos is a health hazard, but you may not think it’s in your house. If it was built between 1920 and 1978, however, there’s a high possibility. If there’s asbestos in your house, hire a specially trained, licensed contractor to remove it. 

♦    Pesticides – If you have a problem with bugs and use pesticides, you may have a problem with pesticides as well. Many chemical pesticide manufacturers are producing natural pesticide solutions and putting them on the shelves. Symptoms from pesticides include feeling light-headed, dizzy or nauseous.  If you have those, switch to a natural pesticide. 

♦    Mold/mildew – Mold and mildew is a common cause for asthma, allergies and other respiratory problems. A long-term cough, difficulty breathing and excessive morning phlegm may point to mold spores in the air. Have a professional scan your house for mold. It may be expensive to take care of, depending on the size of the problem, but you’ll have a lot less doctor visits and feel better. 

Other issues may be damaging the indoor air quality of your Thomasville home. If you want to make your house healthier, visit the EPA website for more information. 

If you’re looking for a healthy home to buy, First Thomasville Realty can help. Call 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Home Buyers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Enjoy a Safe Fourth of July Barbeque at Your Thomasville Home

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010

BarbequeWhen most of us think of Fourth of July festivities, we think of fireworks and food, especially barbeque.  In fact, the Fourth of July is one of the most popular days of the year for barbequing. Many invite family and friends to their Thomasville home and throw burgers, hot dogs or ribs on the grill. 

Unfortunately, some barbequers unknowingly give their family and friends a healthy dose of bacteria along with the food.  To keep your family and friends healthy over the holiday, while still enjoying this summer activity, follow these meat safety tips at your Thomasville home: 

Avoid cross contamination

When you go to the grocery store to buy meat and other foods, keep the raw meat separated from the rest of the food to lessen the chance of cross contamination. Make sure the raw meat is wrapped in plastic bags, again, separated from other meat and foods. Even packaged raw meat can leak, and you want to keep the juices from seeping onto other food. 

Head Home

The summer is hot for most areas of the country. Even if you have air conditioning in your car, you want to go straight home from the grocery store. The longer food is exposed to heat, the more chance it has of gaining a nice bacterial growth. Make sure the grocery store is your only, or last, stop before heading home. 

Refrigerate

When it’s hotter than 90 degrees, food needs to be refrigerated within the first hour of leaving the store. If it’s less than 90 degrees, you have two hours. Freeze any meat or poultry you won’t be using in a day or two, but make sure everything is refrigerated as quickly as possible. 

Thaw Carefully

If you’re going immediately from thawing to the grill, you can use a microwave to defrost. However, for the safest methods, either slowly thaw in the refrigerator over a period of a day or two, or use cold water and sealed packages. 

Transport Cold

If you aren’t barbequing at your home and need to transport the meat, transfer the meat immediately to an insulated cooler (40 degrees or below) right before leaving home. As well, make sure you keep the cooler out of direct sun, which can reduce its efficiency at keeping food cold. 

Serve Hot

Keep the food hot (140 degrees or warmer) until it’s served. You can set the meat at the side of the grill rack or on a warming tray. Use a clean serving platter rather than the same plate that held the raw meat. 

By following the above tips, you’ll help your family and friends have a happy, healthy Fourth of July. 

Looking for a Thomasville home of your own to celebrate next year’s Fourth of July? First Thomasville Realty can help. Call us at 229-226-6515 or email info@FTRealty.com for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags:
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Cool Your Thomasville Home for Less This Summer

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

Cooloffyourhome_webWe’re all trying to live greener lives, but nothing zaps your energy or your will to live greener in your Thomasville home like summer heat.

The summer heat can also assault your wallet.  In fact, you can easily watch your utility bill double during the summer months.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to cool your Thomasville home for less money and less impact on the environment this summer. Here’s how.

1.  Prep your home. Turn off heat-generating lights and appliances.  Don’t use your oven. In the afternoon, close your windows and outside doors and keep window coverings drawn. At other times, use fans to create a cross breeze. 

2.  Raise your thermostat. When you’re not home, raise the thermostat to 80 degrees. Lower it two or three degrees when you are home and use ceiling fans to keep rooms cool. Moving your thermostat from 75 to 80 will lower your consumption by 15%. Your Thomasville home will still feel comfortable, and you will notice significant savings on your next utility bill. 

3.   Take a look at your windows. You’d be surprised to find out how much heat enters your home from old, single pane windows. Newer energy efficient windows with double panes block more heat and keep more cool air inside. If you can’t afford new windows now, at least cover the ones you have with heavy curtains or shades to keep out heat. 

4.  Check for leaks. Leaky duct work and poorly sealed doors can let as much cool air out of your home as an open window. Walk around your home checking under your doors and around your windows to feel for escaping air. Hire a professional to check your air conditioning systems for you. Take the time to have duct leaks repaired and seal air leaks. 

5.  Dress appropriately. There’s no reason to keep your home so cold that you have to wear extra layers of clothing when you’re inside. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. You’ll be more comfortable in slightly warmer temperatures. Keep light throw blankets handy for anyone who easily gets cold under a ceiling fan. 

Implementing even one or two of these tips in your home can save you money and help the environment. 

Want to buy an energy efficient home?  We can help.  Call First Thomasville Realty today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  to learn more.

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Home Buyers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

How to Throw a Block Party at Your Thomasville Home

Thursday, June 3rd, 2010

Block_PartyIf you’ve ever been to a block party, you know it is a great way to gather your neighborhood friends together for some fun. You can easily throw a block party everyone who lives near your Thomasville home will love. Here’s how:

1.  Enlist the help of your neighbors. Throwing a block party at your Thomasville home is a major undertaking, so you will need all the help you can get. Ask others in your community to help you plan, decorate, prepare food, and clean.

2.  Get permission. You don’t want your party broken up by the police or fined by the homeowner’s association. Find out from your municipal government if you are required to get a permit for a block party. Follow up with your homeowner’s association and make sure they will allow the block party.

3.  Select a theme. Themed parties are easier to plan and more fun for the guests. For example, if you choose a beach theme, you know what colors and accessories to use in the decorations: anything blue or tan, coconuts, beach balls, and Frisbees. You also know to serve beach foods like hamburgers and hotdogs.

4.  Plan a menu and decorate. Keep the menu and decorations simple to prepare and easy to clean. Choose food that can be eaten without utensils, like finger foods and sandwiches. Don’t use elaborate decorations.

5.  Have fun. The most important part of your block party is the party itself. Give yourself permission to enjoy the party and the company of your neighbors. Talk to people. Laugh with your neighbors. Participate in any games you play. This is your night to shine.

6.  Clean up. If you planned properly and have enough help, clean up shouldn’t be too overwhelming. Make sure the area where you held the party is completely litter-free and looks better than it did before the party. Don’t give your homeowner’s association any reason to prohibit future block parties.

Getting to know neighbors makes life more enjoyable.  Throwing a block party is a great way to accomplish that while also having fun.

Let First Thomasville Realty help you find a Thomasville home in a great neighborhood. Call us today at 229-226-6515 or email info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Community Info, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Is Your Thomasville Home Prepared for Disaster?

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010

DisastersNo, I’m not talking about the economic crisis, or any other type of personal disaster. I’m talking about the kind that Mother Nature doles out with predictable uncertainty. Your Thomasville home can never be prepared to the extent of knowing when disasters will happen, but you can be ready for anytime they do.

Know What Type of Disaster is Most Likely

While some types of natural disasters can happen anywhere such as fires and floods, other types like earthquakes, landslides, tornadoes and hurricanes are less likely in certain regions. For example, tornadoes are unlikely in California and earthquakes are less common in Wisconsin.

Different types of disasters require different preparations so knowing what your Thomasville home is most likely to experience is of great benefit.  For instance, you do not want to be underground in an earthquake, but in a tornado picking the lowest spot in a home such as a basement is wise.

Gather Supplies

Some things are common to all types of disaster preparations. Having these items on hand should be on every homeowner’s “must have” list.

*  Extra blankets

*  Water

*  Several days worth of food (best if prepared or easy to make without electrical appliances)

*  Candles or other forms of emergency lighting

*  Battery operated radio

*  Dust mask

*  Can opener

*  Moist towels

*  Emergency escape plans

*  Shelter listings

*  Pet food (if you have pets)

*  Fire extinguishers (every home should have at least one per floor if not more)

*  Infant supplies (if applicable) 

Plan for Fast Action

Have disaster plans worked out for a variety of disaster types:

♦    In the event of a fire, have an escape plan prepared for every level of your home.

♦    If your Thomasville home is in a flood zone, have sandbags ready and stored for use at a moment’s notice.

♦    For tornado safety, know the best place in your home to go for shelter.

Being prepared can save you a lot of grief. Disasters are a nuisance at best and fatal at worst.  By planning for the worst, you’ll get through them in the best manner possible.

If you need more information on preparing your Thomasville home for a disaster, First Thomasville Realty can help. Call us now at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Community Info, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

How to Buy the Right Deck Stain for Your Thomasville Home

Wednesday, May 19th, 2010

Deck_StainIf your Thomasville home needs a face-lift, you can instantly brighten up the appearance of your house by staining your deck.  There are many different types of wood stain sold at home improvement stores.  You’ll need to keep a few things in mind when choosing wood stain:

♦    What kind of wood are you staining?  Different types of stain are made for different kinds of wood.  Some stains are specifically made for pre-treated wood only.  Untreated wood requires special care and specific stain and sealant products.

♦    What color deck do you want?  Most stains will look like natural wood when dried.  You can choose from oak to redwood and even cherry woods to match your Thomasville home.

♦    What are the weather conditions where you live?  Since the secondary purpose of most stains is to act as a sealant, you’ll need to pick the type that will be most beneficial to your deck.  Some stains protect against ultra-violet rays and others are made to protect against wood rot and mildew.

♦    How much stain do you need to buy?  You’ll need to calculate the square footage of your deck to know what quantity of paint to buy.  Check the labeling on the stain.  Some brands require more than one coat for the best results. 

After you’ve chosen the stain for your deck, pick up a few supplies to apply the stain:

♦    Buy work gloves to keep your hands from becoming discolored by the stain. 

♦    Most home improvement stores will have paint pans and brushes for sale near the stain.

♦    Because stain is very thin, it tends to drip easily.  You may find that a paint pad will apply the stain more efficiently than a paintbrush.

Want more tips on how to improve your Thomasville home’s appearance?  Subscribe to the First Thomasville Realty blog now.  It’s fast and free.

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

How to Deal with Problem Neighbors Near Your Thomasville Home

Tuesday, May 18th, 2010

Problem_NeighborsWe’ve all had to deal with problem neighbors near our Thomasville homes.  The trouble might be a loud late night party or a dog that is always barking at odd hours.  It can be hard to fix the problem without causing a lasting rift in the neighborhood.  Here are a few tips for getting a peaceful resolution: 

Bring it Up Gently 

It may be that your neighbor doesn’t realize there is a problem.  Try to wait a day or two after the problem occurs and tactfully bring up the trouble you are having.  Be sure to speak in a calm and reasonable manner.  

If your partying neighbor is not receptive to making a complete change, suggest that they let you know ahead of time when a party is scheduled.  Sometimes being able to plan for a disruption can make it easier to bear. 

A dog that barks at all the wrong times is harder to fix.  If you have a specific reason for needing the dog to be quiet, for instance, you work nights and need to be able to sleep in your Thomasville home during the day; a gentle reminder that the dog is barking excessively may do the trick. 

Ask For Help 

If you’ve talked with the problem neighbor nicely and are still getting nowhere, try recruiting others in the neighborhood to help solve the dilemma.  Sometimes it’s easier to get results when a group is asking for change.  The disapproval of the entire neighborhood isn’t something that most people are willing to risk. 

Occasionally, there might be that stubborn person who simply refuses to be courteous to anyone nearby.  It may seem that you have no options left.  Before you give up hope, check with your homeowner’s association, they may have the ability to enforce a change that you cannot.  

If at any time you feel that your neighbor is trying to force a confrontation, and may become dangerous, call the local police and ask for help.

Trying a few of these suggestions can be an easy and effective way to bring the peace back to your neighborhood. 

Want to find a Thomasville home in a peaceful neighborhood?  First Thomasville Realty can help.  Call us today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Thomasville Homes and Lawns: Growing Greener Grass

Friday, May 7th, 2010

Green_GrassIf you’re anything like me, you’ve driven through neighborhoods, admiring the Thomasville homes and immaculate lawns.  You’ve pictured your dry, brown yard, wondering how these homeowners managed to get their lawns looking so great. 

Here are a few tips and tricks that can help achieve that plush, green grass that everyone hopes for: 

1.  Choose a type of grass seed that’s right for your climate zone.  

There are three climate zones:  Warm, transitional and cool.  Warm season grass is better for lawns in the South, cool season for the North, and transitional for Central.  The best bet for the transitional zone is either a mixture of warm and cool season grass or using the same seeds as the warm zone.  

2.  Plant at the right time. 

Throw grass seed on the ground at the right time, and it’ll grow. 

♦  Warm zone grasses - sown in the spring, once the soil is warm enough for sprouts to grow. 

♦  Cool zone grasses – sown in the fall, generally between August 1 – 15 for the far North, and August 15 – 30 for the warmer areas. 

3.  Cut at the right height. 

No matter what zone the Thomasville homes with gorgeous green lawns are in, you may notice that the lawns all seem to be about the same height.  There’s a reason for that.  Lawn care experts say you should never cut your grass shorter than two inches. 

4.  Use the right mower. 

You want to use mulching lawnmowers, replacing the blades every season to keep them sharp for cleaner cuts.  These lawnmowers turn the clippings into perfect grass-feed, which takes care of about half of the feed for the season.  

5.  Have a good watering schedule. 

The best time to water a lawn is first thing in the morning.  You want to water all at once instead of in short spurts, soaking your lawn with about one inch each time you water.  Cool zone lawns should be watered whenever it’s been dry for a week.  Lawns for warm zone Thomasville homes should be watered twice a week during the summer. 

Want to buy a home with a lush lawn?  First Thomasville Realty can help.  Give us a call today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Live Green and Save Cash on Appliances for Your Thomasville Home

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

Energy_Star_RatingIf you’re in need of an appliance for your Thomasville home, you may want to buy now to save cash.  The U.S. government is giving you good reasons to buy energy-efficient appliances through its Energy Star designation.  Thirty-six states have launched programs to distribute almost $300 million in rebates to consumers who buy energy-efficient appliances. 

The federally-funded programs are similar to the hotly debated cash-for-clunkers auto rebate program of 2009. Rebates differ by state and appliance but typically run between $50 to $75 on refrigerators, washers, dryers and freezers. 

To qualify for rebates, consumers must buy Energy Star appliances, which meet or beat energy standards.  These standards are set by the federal government and are up to 30 percent more efficient than non-Energy Star appliances. 

Should you buy new appliances for your Thomasville home now?  Say yes if:

♦     You need a new appliance anyway.

♦     You’re tired of throwing away money every time you operate inefficient appliances.

♦     You want a good deal on a new appliance.

♦     You want to help the environment by going green and saving energy.

 You may even be able to trade in your old-but-still running refrigerator or dishwasher when you buy a new Energy Star model.  For the specific rules and amount you’ll save, go to Energy Savers. 

Want to save even more?  You may also be eligible for rebates offered by manufacturers, local utilities and retailers.  Home Depot, Lowe’s and Sears are all planning special promotions in certain states to coincide with the federal rebate program. 

Research the stores’ promotions before you buy.  To find a list of retailers of Energy Star qualified products in your area and the categories of products they carry, use the Energy Star Store Locator. 

Since rebates for Energy Star qualified (or higher) appliances are generally being given on a first-come, first-served basis, and because funding is limited, you might want to act fast before the available cash is gone. 

If you’d like to buy a new Thomasville home for your new appliances, we can help.  Give First Thomasville Realty a call today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Home Buyers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Thomasville Real Estate Do It Yourself Project: Staining Kitchen Cabinets

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010

Staining_ProjectYou’d like to remodel your kitchen, but like many Thomasville real estate owners, you need to do it as inexpensively as possible.  Consider cutting costs by staining the kitchen cabinets yourself.

Here’s the basic 4-step process to staining kitchen cabinets for your Thomasville real estate.

1.  Gather supplies:  120-grit and 220-grit sandpaper, wood conditioner, paintbrushes, tack cloths, rags, stain and polyurethane.  Some experts recommend water-based stain and sealer because they’re easier to work with, while others insist on oil-based products because of their durability.  Do some research to make the right choice for you. 

2.  Prepare the wood:  Using 120-grit sandpaper, lightly sand the wood in the direction of the grain.  This prevents scratches.  Remove all of the loose dust with a tack cloth.  Then sand the cabinets again, this time using 220-grit sandpaper.  This creates a smooth finish.  Remove all the loose dust with a tack cloth and apply a coat of wood conditioner to the cabinets.  Let it dry completely. 

3.  Stain the wood:  Brush on a coat of stain with a paintbrush following the grain of the wood.  Then take a rag and rub the stain into the wood using a circular motion. Finish the staining by wiping along the grain of the wood one final time to ensure an even finish.  Let the stain dry completely. 

4.  Seal the wood:  Apply two coats of polyurethane following the manufacturer’s directions.  Once you’ve sealed the cabinets, make sure you give them ample time to cure.

Staining the cabinets for your Thomasville real estate kitchen remodel can save you a lot of money.  Just be sure you take the time to do a quality job.  You’ll be living with the results for a long time, so make sure it looks good.

Want more homeowner tips like this automatically emailed to you?  Subscribe to this blog now.  It’s free and easy.

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Where Can I Find XYZ On the Thomasville Real Estate Market?

Monday, April 26th, 2010

Home_Search_On_The_WebIf you’re like me and other real estate agents, home sellers, homebuyers and homeowners, you’re always looking for a great resource for information on the Thomasville real estate market. You have questions and you want answers. 

♦     What are the mortgages like in this area?

♦     What are the current selling prices for homes?

♦     What’s a specific neighborhood like?

♦     Is there anything besides the economy affecting the Thomasville real estate market?

 For instance, you want to know current market trends. Are they stabilizing? Are things still sliding down hill? Is there a buying trend sellers can take advantage of to market their homes? While a professional real estate agent will help you sell or find a home, it doesn’t hurt for you to do some research on your own to become more knowledgeable. Who knows, you may come up with some ideas we haven’t thought of! 

So where can you find reliable information on the real estate market? On the Internet, there are thousands, perhaps millions, of informational sites. Below are just a few of our personal favorites: 

CNNMoney.com (real estate) – The information on CNNMoney.com has no bias in terms of convincing you to sell or buy. Where are home prices falling? Where are they strongest? What information do you need to know as a buyer or seller? From mortgages to pricing and market stability, you can find it here. 

RISMedia.com – If you can’t find it on CNNMoney, you can most likely find it on RISMedia. Home improvement, financing and foreclosure information are just a few of the topics. As well, because RISMedia is actually involved in real estate, you can find the latest market information. 

DQNews.com – DataQuick provides real estate data on a state-by-state basis or on a specific area. While the information can be a little technical for the non-real-estate-professional, if you want to know how the Las Vegas region is doing for home sales, or the average mortgage rates in Missouri, DQ can help. Depending on your area, you may have to pay for the data, but it’s fairly inexpensive and can give you great information. 

If you’re interested in the Thomasville real estate market in any way, bookmark this blog and the listed sites for easy reference. The more you know, the better you can prepare for upcoming trends, good or bad! 

If you’re trying to sell your home, or are looking for your dream home to buy, We can help. Call First Thomasville Realty at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Home Buyers Tips, Home Sellers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Make the Yard of Your Thomasville Home a Bird Paradise

Monday, April 19th, 2010

Bird_paradiseDo you enjoy watching birds?  Would you like to attract more of them to the yard of your Thomasville home?  Luckily, you can with the right setting.  Here are 3 steps to transform your landscape into a bird’s paradise:

Step 1:  Provide a food supply for your feathered friends.

One of the easiest ways to do so is through birdfeeders.  To ensure a throng of birds inhabits your landscape throughout most of the year, place birdfeeders in areas all over your Thomasville home’s yard.

Step 2:  Supply a source of water for birds to drink and bathe in.

Birdbaths are an easy solution and wide varieties are available.  Shallow basins or troughs will also do the trick.  However, since birds enjoy moving water, you may want to include a feature in your landscape that circulates water. 

Step 3:  Offer a safe shelter to perch and rest.

Birds want a place safe from the elements and predators.  Evergreen trees like cedar, pine and spruce are a good choice, as they allow birds to crawl into them and keep predators out.  Ornamental trees are another good choice that will not only provide shelter but perhaps even some food in the form of berries or insects.  Trees that birds find attractive include crabapple trees, flowering dogwood trees and Japanese snowdrop trees.

In addition to trees, you may want to provide birdhouses.  These also serve as shelter, as long as they are deep enough to protect the nest and have a small hole near the top and a cleanout panel.  The size of the hole and orientation to your Thomasville home determine what birds inhabit it.  To keep inhabitants comfortable and safe, place birdhouses in a quiet, shady spot and secure them firmly.

Turning your yard into a bird paradise takes some time and effort, but it’s all worth it when your landscape is flittering with feathered activity throughout most of the year.

Want to purchase a home with a yard that you can turn into a bird paradise?  First Thomasville Realty can help.  Call us now at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

6 Essential Spring Cleaning Chores to Make Your Thomasville Home Shine

Friday, April 16th, 2010

Spring_Cleaning_ChoresIf the thought of spring cleaning your Thomasville home doesn’t bring a smile to your face, you’re not alone.  To help you (and me) get going now, I’ve come up with this short list of the 6 essential, in my opinion, spring cleaning chores: 

1.  Store winter clothes:  It’s time to pack away your winter clothes. Coats, sweaters, and your heavy winter clothing need to be inspected, cleaned if needed and packed away.  Don’t skip the step of cleaning, or, when you get your clothes out of storage next fall, you might find that they’ve been damaged beyond repair by insects or set in stains.  Where should you store your clothes?  Somewhere clean, cool, dark and dry.   

2.  Wash window treatments:  Spring is the perfect time to inspect and clean the window treatments in your Thomasville home.  Clean window treatments brighten any room. Wash blinds, launder curtains that are machine washable and send drapes to the dry cleaners. While you’re at it, dust the window casing, wash window sills, and clean any window hardware.  You’ll be surprised at the huge amount of dirt and grime that a thorough window cleaning removes. 

3.  Clean carpets and upholstery: Deep clean fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dust and germs.  Shampoo your carpets; clean cloth furniture.  Open windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more. 

4.  Wash woodwork, walls, baseboards and cabinets: Even if your Thomasville home’s walls don’t look like they need cleaning, they do.  Just enough dust clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal bath.  Using a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, wash the surface in sections to make sure you don’t miss a spot. 

5.  Clean light and ceiling fixtures: To clean your light fixtures, remove the light bulb and fixture if possible.  Wash glass fixtures in soap and water.  If the fixture cannot be removed from the ceiling, use a damp cloth to wipe it off.  Dry the fixtures.  Wipe the light bulbs with a rag.  The easiest way to clean your ceiling fans is to use a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.  

6.  Check your coils: Caked on dust can cause your refrigerator to overheat, so take the time to clean the condenser coil.   It’s usually found behind the toe grille.  Clean it with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose.  If the condenser coil is on the back of your refrigerator, carefully pull the fridge out several feet and vacuum thoroughly.   

Put on your favorite music and start your spring cleaning.  It’ll be done before you know it.  Then you can relax and enjoy your sparkling clean home. 

Spring is also a great time to shop for a new Thomasville home, especially this year with the home buyer tax credits still available until the end of April.  Call First Thomasville Realty right away at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  to find out how you can get the $8,000 or $6,500 tax credit.

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Home Buyers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

How to Choose Paint Colors to Sell Your Thomasville Real Estate

Friday, April 2nd, 2010

Choosing_Paint_ColorsWhen you’re ready to sell your Thomasville real estate, you want to make sure it’s attractive to potential buyers. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home, but with all the paint colors available to you, you may wonder which colors are best.

There are two primary things to consider:

1. Function. What is the room primarily used for? Some rooms are easy to label. After all, there are only one or two uses for the kitchen or bathroom. But what about great rooms or family rooms? Rooms like that are most often used for relaxation and recovery from a busy day, and, therefore, should be painted in soothing shades of blue or green. Busier rooms, like the kitchen, can handle stronger colors like red, orange, or bright yellow.

2. Size. Generally, the smaller the room the lighter the wall color. Lighter colors make rooms look bigger, while darker colors make rooms look smaller. Your bathrooms and smaller bedrooms will mostly likely look better with a lighter shade than your living room or family room. Since colors are part of a spectrum, you can find a shade of any color that will work for you.

Buyers like to picture themselves living in Thomasville real estate before they buy it. This is why you should stick to neutral colors throughout your home. As your buyers walk through, they can imagine their own furniture and art and belongings up against a white or cream colored wall. It’s a little trickier to do this when the walls are bright orange.

Don’t overlook the power of a new paint job. Let First Thomasville Realty help you prepare your Thomasville real estate for a fast sale. Call us today at 229-226-6515 or email info@FTRealty.com .

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Home Sellers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Taking Advantage of Thomasville Foreclosures

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010

Thomasville_ForeclosuresMany potential homeowners are starting to look towards Thomasville foreclosures as a way to get the home of their dreams without spending their life savings. What they may not realize is that the sheer amount of foreclosed properties can be daunting. Some are so completely overwhelmed by the choices that they give up and walk away.

Thomasville foreclosures can be great deals, but you’ll have a few decisions to make before you even go looking. Because there are so many options, here and throughout the nation, it’s important to figure out what type of foreclosed home is best for you.

Government Foreclosures

Homes with federally sponsored loans, such as HUD homes, are repossessed by government housing agencies. Because these homes offer a lot of opportunities for discount purchases, they move quickly.

Foreclosure Auctions

One of the most common ways to buy a foreclosure is while it’s on the chopping block of a traditional real estate auction. The auction is public, with homes sold to the highest bidder.

REO Foreclosures

Repossessed by the bank, real estate owned properties have been through a foreclosure auction without being bought. There’s not necessarily anything wrong with the home itself. In fact, many foreclosure auctions fail to sell the home. The primary reason foreclosure auctions do not succeed is that the auction price is more than what the property is worth. When the auction does fail, ownership reverts to the bank and the home becomes an REO.

REO foreclosures also have auctions, but the bidding process is closed and blind – no haggling allowed. You look over the available properties and come up with an offer to buy the home directly from the bank, rather than competing with other buyers in a public sale. 

The good thing with REO foreclosures is that you can also set up the financing and mortgaging options through the same bank. Often, this gives the bank encouragement to give you a better price for the home. 

Whether you’re looking at Thomasville foreclosures for investment opportunities, or to buy your dream home, you have a myriad of options. Knowing what you want – before you start looking – is one of the best ways to ensure you get the deal of a lifetime! 

If you’re unsure which type of foreclosed home is best for you, or if you want help finding a great deal on a foreclosure, we can help. Call First Thomasville Realty at 229-226-6515 or email info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags: ,
Posted in Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

Before Painting Your Thomasville Home For Sale

Tuesday, March 16th, 2010

Painting_Your_HomeNothing makes a Thomasville home for sale look better than a new coat of paint. Many people are intimidated by the thought of painting the exterior of their home, and hire someone else to do it. But, you can do it yourself, with these easy steps:

Getting Your House Ready to Paint

The first thing that you’ll need to do is inspect the house. Look at all the walls, under the eaves and around the doorframe and windows. Check for peeling paint, mildew and rough surfaces.

You’ll need to gather a few tools before getting to the repairs and putting your Thomasville home up for sale:

  • Power-washer
  • 2-3” inch putty knife
  • 2-3” inch pull scraper
  • Wire brush
  • Sander
  • Chlorine bleach

 Preparing the Surface

Power-wash the walls so you’ll have a clean surface.  You don’t need to use detergents; plain ol’ water works the best. 

The putty knife and the wire brush remove problems where paint has peeled, blistered or wrinkled.  Avoid gouging the surface by holding the putty knife perpendicular to the wall and using moderate force.  

The pull scraper is for areas that won’t easily come clean.  It’s used the same way as the putty knife, but it has a sharp blade attached that quickly gets through old paint.  The walls will need to be sanded smooth after you finish this step. 

For small spots, a piece of sandpaper wrapped around a sanding block works just fine.  An electric sander is best for large areas; it’ll save you time and energy. 

Removing Mildew

Mildew is a dark patch of fungus, like a dirty spot, often found on a damp, shady spot in your house.  If you aren’t sure it’s mildew, put a few drops of chlorine bleach on it.  If the spot fades away, you know you have a mildew problem. 

Mildew shows through new paint, so you’ll need to get rid of it before you start painting.  A simple mix of chlorine bleach will kill it quickly. 

All you have to do now is pick out a paint color and wait for the right weather to paint.  Soon you’ll be ready to put up your Thomasville home for sale.  

If you’re thinking of selling your home, First Thomasville Realty can help.  Call us today at 229-226-6515 or email us at info@FTRealty.com  for more information.

Google Buzz

Tags: , ,
Posted in Home Sellers Tips, Homeowners Tips | Comments Off

« Older Entries