Strangeness... Best time to invest in Cooling your home! {Dan Vick's Tips}

Invest in Cool This Winter

Most of us spend the coldest months focusing on ways to keep our homes warm and cozy. Strange as it may sound, winter can actually provide the perfect opportunity to add air conditioning to your home (or to replace an aging cooling system). By bucking conventional wisdom you should be able to save money while making sure your home is as ready as you are for summer.

Heat Wave-Proof by March

Like shopping for tire chains during a blizzard, you don't want to find yourself desperately searching for air conditioning after the spring and summer heat have already hit. Start early and you will have time to fully research cooling options, review the needs of your home, and price shop both brands and local heating/cooling contractors. Choosing the right air conditioner or central air system for your home is not a decision you want to make when under the influence of a stifling heat wave.

Value

Air conditioning systems will typically add at least enough resale value to your home to cover the cost of purchase and installation. For warmer climates, or higher-end real estate markets, adding AC can improve your home's comparative value even more.

Savings

The big box stores may advertise eye-catching sales on air conditioner units at the start of summer, but all too often such offers are for limited quantities of specific models units only and may not include the cost of installation. Winter can actually be a slow time for HVAC contractors, particularly those who focus on cooling systems, and as a result many may offer seasonal discounts.

A few buying tips:

• Comparative Size: An AC system that is too small for your home won't cool rooms properly and will result in wasted energy. A system that is too large or too powerful will shut down too quickly, prior to dehumidifying the air.
• Keep it Quiet: Pay attention to noise ratings on all systems. Noisy units can disrupt your sleep on their lowest levels or serve as a raucous distraction on high.
• Energy Efficiency: AC systems with higher efficiency ratings will cost you more up front, but will help save your household when it comes to future energy bills (they're more eco-friendly, to boot). Look for systems that feature programmable time settings to limit the system's use during non-peak times.

Information from Dan Vick of RE/MAX kc, 816-453-7400

I would be lost without my Refrigerator! {Dan Vick's Tips}

Usually the largest appliance in the kitchen, the refrigerator plays a central role in day to day cooking and kitchen use. Finding the right model for your household is a matter of evaluating space needs, style preferences and desired functionality.

Capacity/Size: Full-size refrigerators come in a wide variety of capacities. Large, family-sized units can feature upwards of 26 cubic feet of space. Two people generally need eight to ten cubic feet of fresh food storage. For each additional member of the household, add an extra foot to foot and a half of storage space
Configuration: Several different refrigerator designs are available, each of which offer their own advantages.

• Top Mount -The freezer compartment is on top with the refrigerator located below. This is the most common design, and provides a spacious interior.
• Bottom Mount - The freezer compartment is located underneath the refrigerator, often in a slide-out drawer. Commonly-used fridge items are easier to access without bending down. The refrigerator compartment may use either a single door or French door design.
• Side by Side - The refrigerator and freezer compartments are adjacent. Both frozen and refrigerated foods are within easy reach, but the design may not accommodate larger items such as frozen pizzas or turkeys.
• Compact Models - Scaled-down versions designed to fit into tight spaces or underneath counters. Though they have smaller capacities, they are ideal for dorm rooms, basements, offices or family rooms

Energy efficiency: Refrigerator units manufactured in the last few years are vastly more efficient than older models. Energy-efficient models help reduce utility bills. Models with electronic controls and digital displays make setting precise temperatures even easier, and many refrigerators feature advanced temperature regulation systems.
Adjustable shelves: The adjustability of shelving varies from model to model. Some allow you to move shelves up or down without being removed, while others provide the flexibility to adjust both the height and depth of any shelf.
Icemakers/ water dispensers: Icemakers have become a common feature, and the best are those that are integral to the door, leaving more space in the main freezer compartment for food. Many water dispensers also incorporate a water filtration unit.
Individual storage bins/crispers controls: Many fridges now allow you to customize the humidity and temperature settings for each storage and crisper bin, ideal for those who purchase a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Reversible doors: Refrigerators with reversible doors allow customization for right-or-left handed access. These can also be useful for kitchens where the fridge area is tight against a wall or cabinet.
Style and finish: Ideally your refrigerator will be with you for many years, so it is important to pick a style that will match your kitchen design and compliment your changing tastes. Stainless-steel finishes are very popular, albeit slightly more expensive. Black, white, and bisque are the most common refrigerator colors, and trim kits are available that can make a freestanding unit appear more like a built-in model.

Information from Dan Vick, RE/MAX kc, 816-453-7400

MORE Kitchen Appliances... The Microwave, a favorite for my popcorn family!

If you use your microwave for more than just preheating or thawing, it might be time to upgrade your current model. Today's latest versions come with a wide variety of settings and features that can let you cook entire meals in mere minutes.

Size: Microwaves now come in a variety of sizes and power levels. Choose a size that best fits both your counter/cabinet space and the sizes of cookware that you typically use in the microwave.

• Compact - 18" wide x 12" high x 14" deep (less than .8 cubic feet capacity), 500-800 watts power;
• Midsize - 20" wide x 12" high x 14"deep (.8 - 1.2 cubic feet capacity), 800-1000 watts power;
• Large/full-size - are 20" wide x 12" high x 20" deep (.8 - 1.2 cubic feet capacity), over 1000 watts power

Built-in microwave spaces: Over-the range models are full size ovens designed to be placed above the stovetop, including a vent feature. These microwaves free up counter space and place the microwave at a convenient eye level. If your kitchen features a built-in microwave area for, make sure to accurately measure the space when comparing models, including some buffer room.

Convection: New combination microwave/convection ovens let you cook in either microwave only, convection only, or combination convection/microwave mode. The convection feature crisps and browns foods in ways that microwave cooking alone cannot.

Turntable: Turntables rotate food for more even cooking, and can be removed for easy cleanup.

Noise: If possible, test out the noise output of several models. Some powerful models can be fairly loud.

Information from Dan Vick, RE/MAX kc, 816-453-7400

Kitchen Appliances... The Dishwasher! {Dan Vick's Tips}

Of all kitchen appliances, dishwashers take more than their fair share of abuse. A new replacement dishwasher is welcome upgrade for almost any kitchen. If you are currently sink-and-sponging all of your dishes clean, you'll find that a new dishwasher is time-saving and environmentally friendly (modern dishwashers use less water to clean dishes than hand-washing).

Style/Capacity: Dishwashers come in a number of different alignments and capacities. The right dishwasher for your kitchen will depend on the space you have available, the load needs for your household and the individual style of your kitchen.

• 24" Built-In - The most common installation, the 24" fits under a kitchen counter and has space for 10-16 place settings. Washers in this size have the widest range of features, options and prices.
• Compact 18" Built-In - These smaller-capacity models are ideal for smaller kitchens or households with 1 to 2 occupants. The smaller capacity results in more efficient loads.
• Portable - Portable dishwashers connect to the kitchen faucet, and can be stored out of the way when not in use. Available in both 18" and 24" configurations, they have the benefits of standard dishwashers with portable flexibility.
• Two-Drawer Washers - Two-drawer setups allow for increased efficiency and flexibility. Each drawer can be operated separately, or they can be run simultaneously. The ability to run two different cycles at once allows for flexibility, while single-drawer usage allows for increased efficiency when washing smaller loads.

Energy efficiency: The overall efficiency of dishwashers has been greatly improved over the last decade. New dishwashers use less energy and water, saving you money in the long run. Models with the ENERGY STAR label exceed federal energy standards by 25% or more.

Stationary vs. adjustable racks: While most dishwashers have preset rack spaces, those with adjustable configurations allow provide greater flexibility when loading large or irregularly shaped dishes.

Delayed start: Many models allow you to set a delay on the load start time. By running the dishwasher during off-peak hours, you can take advantage of cheaper utility periods. Such units also allow you to maintain a quieter kitchen during the day.

Noise insulation: More insulation around the tub will reduce dishwasher noise, so check for units with thicker insulation.

Built-in food disposers: Many newer models feature food disposers that grind up food particles and flush them out with waste water, preventing food specks from being re-deposited on your dishes.

Cleaning Capabilities: Wash arms with smaller spray holes provide more scrubbing power. In addition, many dishwashers are equipped with multiple tiers and washer arms to better dislodge caked-on food.

Cycle types: In addition to regular wash cycles, many dishwashers allow specialty cycles designed to tackle specific dishes such as pots and pans, crystal, and fine china.

Finish and style: Dishwashers now come in a wide variety of materials, colors and finishes to better match your kitchen décor. Some unites come with fitted wood paneling to perfectly match your cabinetry, while others accommodate fully customizable front panels for an even more unique look.

Article from Dan Vick, RE/MAX of kc, 816-453-7400

Decision Time Draws Near for First Time Buyer's Credit {Dan Vick's Tips}

While the economy continues to show signs of improvement and many housing markets are beginning to heat up, scores of would-be buyers are still waiting on the sidelines for further positive housing trends. But for first-time buyers, time is running short on the federal government's $8,000 tax credit.

Though the official expiration date of the credit is December 1, in reality on-the-fence buyers will need to make a decision one way or the other fairly soon. The reason: in order to qualify for the credit, the home purchase must close by December 1st. Merely having loan approval, an accepted offer or a signed contract won't be enough to qualify for the Housing and Economic Recovery Act

Decision-Making Timeline - While each transaction is unique, closing a real estate deal is no speedy matter. On average, closing takes place 45 to 60 days after the date that the contract is signed. In order to meet the December 1st deadline, this would mean having a signing date in late September or early October. Those who consider the tax credit an important incentive but are still unsure about entering the market will need to make a decision one way or another before many more summer days pass.

To have any chance at finding a home and having an offer accepted by early October, buyers will want to wade into the home buying process right away. The immediate steps include making a final list of desired home attributes, scouting favorite neighborhoods and areas, contacting a bank for mortgage pre-approval and beginning the home search process online.

Potential for Delays... Buying a home is a complicated process, and it is not unusual for purchases involving first-time buyers to take slightly longer than those involving experienced buyers. Some of the delays that first-time buyers may face over the coming months:

Competition with Other Buyers... While home may be selling at a lower rate than in years past, in many areas changes in inventory have created extremely competitive buying environments. Foreclosures or other homes with greatly lowered asking prices are particularly sought after, and in many cases investors are very active in the marketplace.

Disclosures & Contingencies... The seller is obligated to disclose any material facts about the property, including any property defects or any lawsuits regarding claim to ownership on the property. Disclosures can stall negotiations and delay the contract signing depending on their nature and severity. Contingencies (written clauses in the sales contract that give protection to both the buyer and the seller of a home) can also result in some delay in negotiation, particularly if the contingency requires the seller to make specific repairs.

Appraisal... The lender will arrange for appraisal of the property, which will include a thorough inspection of the home's interior and exterior. The appraiser's report will describe the physical characteristics of the property and comparable property values will be used to determine the value of the property. If the appraisal of the home's value is lower than the agreed upon sales price, the buyer's chance of loan approval can be in jeopardy. In addition, recently added rules for appraisers have been causing some delays based upon anecdotal evidence.

Loan Approval... While interest rates remain advantageous for buyers, lenders are being much more fastidious during the approval process. Obtaining pre-approval can help prevent many delays.

The Holiday Season... Buyers who submit an offer in mid-fall may likely run into another roadblock to a pre-December 1st closing date: the approaching holiday season. Closing a real estate sale requires the work and attention of a number of professionals; from real estate agents to attorneys to bankers. Like many Americans, it is not uncommon for individuals in these fields to use up vacation time in the last few weeks of November. Securing a closing date during Thanksgiving week may be something approaching miraculous.

Additional Delays for Short Sales and Foreclosures... Buyers who make an offer on a short sale property or bank-owned foreclosure may find that it takes a significantly longer time to receive a reply than expected. Overall, buying these types of properties is a longer process than buying homes listed on the market by individual owners.

Article from Dan Vick, RE/MAX of kc, 816-453-7400

Easy Ways to Revitalize Your Outdoor Spaces {Dan Vick's Tips}

At about this time every year, we begin to venture out from our living rooms and dens into the porches, backyards and patios that will be our fresh-aired habitat for the next few months. Summer is here. This year more homeowners are avoiding expensive remodeling projects around the home, including large-scale outdoor projects like building new decks our patio spaces. Likewise, fewer people are spending money on big ticket items like high-end grills, above ground pools our lavish outdoor furniture sets. But reigning in spending doesn't mean you can't upgrade your outdoor life this summer.

Below are just a few ways you can liven up your deck, backyard or patio without shelling out big bucks.

Color Coordinate - The easiest way to breathe life into your patio, deck or porch is to commit to a vibrant color scheme. Tablecloths, napkins, outdoor rugs and throw pillows are all inexpensive touches that will add a cohesive splash of color to your surroundings. If you have a wood deck, you may consider staining or painting the decking in a new color (forgoing the bright accent hues for more subdued, complimentary tones).

Paint that Plastic - Plastic patio furniture has long been an inexpensive way to furnish outdoor spaces, but most plastic furniture sets have only been available in limited range of solid colors. Due to their unforgiving slick surface, customizing the look of plastic home and garden items was practically impossible. That has all changed with the engineering of new paints designed specifically for plastic surfaces. Using these new paint products, you can easily add a splash of summer color to furniture, garden equipment and children's toys.

Change Your Wicker Ways - You can also breathe new life into older wicker furniture with a little paint and some creativity (or failing that, some pre-made patterns). Start by spray-painting your wicker chairs or tables in bright tones. You can dress the furniture up even more by adding patterns with acrylics paints (whether freehand or with stencils). Protect your creation from the elements by adding a layer of spray varnish.

Pond in a Box - Adding water elements to a backyard or garden is attractive from an aesthetic standpoint, but can be something of a logistical nightmare (especially for those who try to go the Do-It-Yourself route). Water features require a certain amount of space, money and effort. Consider a lower impact alternative: a deck-top pond. If you're the least bit handy with a hammer, you can fashion your own miniature water garden using a handful of materials from the nearest home and garden center.

Most deck-top ponds are constructed with a distinct garden area (an arrangement of soil, rocks and plants) and a larger pond section that features submerged plants (which do not need soil), marginal plants (planted a pot which is then sunk) and "edge" plants (which are planted along the pond's banks). You can tailor the size of the water garden fit your needs, the materials and surfaces to match your décor and the plant choices to the amount of light available.

Paper Lanterns - Japanese style-lanterns are an inexpensive way to add color and style to your outdoor spaces. Once limited to Asian-inspired decorating schemes, today paper lanterns come in a wide variety of designs, shapes and colors. Try a simple set of white lanterns with white lights for understated elegance, or kaleidoscope of bright lanterns for a more avant-garde lighting scheme. You can also choose different colored bulbs for additional variety. Both corded and battery operated lights can be used in paper lanterns depending on your preference.

Summer Flowers- It takes but a few well-placed planters of flowers to create a park-like atmosphere. Planter boxes require less up-keep than in ground flowers, perfect for those of us who don't have the greenest of thumbs. A garden store expert can help you choose varieties that will match both your desired colors and the level of upkeep you're most comfortable with.

This post is by Dan Vick of RE/MAX of kc, 816-453-7400