So we updated our rental with a number of great green features. The low VOC paint made sure there was no nasty off-gassing, and we were able to show the home immediately. Removing the carpet and replacing it with a durable solid surface flooring (we used a wood laminate) will give better air quality to the home, as well as reducing the hassle we would have had if we needed to replace carpet every 4 or so years.
Results?
WIN!
We had a flurry of activity. Folks LOVED the look of the home. I staged it and also shot great photos. We ended up renting it out for more money to a FABULOUS tenant with an excellent credit score. He was concerned about chemicals because he has a pet bird. All in all, it was a good choice. The money up front for the improvements made things a little tight, but combined with the fact that we will save on replacing carpet/ fencing and are getting more money each month in rent is a real winner for us! We'll have this rental for the long-term.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Green Rental Upgrades- The Low Hanging Fruit
Green Rentals- the low hanging fruit-
Having a Green Rental can benefit the planet, the renters and also the landlord.
How?
There are some easy things to take advantage of that will benefit everyone.
Rebates and Freebies: One of the main things to do is check for City Rebates. The City of
Know what you have- some of the things about your rental are probably already green, and you just haven’t told the world!
Are you within easy walking distance to stores, schools, parks, restaurants, employers? What about a quick drive distance? That’s something to promote.
Cost to the landlord? Free
You also may have ceiling fans. Many rentals do. Did you know that using a ceiling fan helps you keep your summer ac usage lower? Now you know! Check another green feature off the list.
Cost to the landlord? Free
How about floors? If you got rid of the carpet long ago because you hated the time and expense of changing it out all the time, then you are in luck- carpets harbor dirt and mold and lead to worse air quality. Hard surface flooring is another green feature and there are some beautiful inexpensive laminate floors out there. You’ll save on changing out the carpet every few years.
Cost to the landlord? Free (equal cost to 4 carpet changes)
Faucet aerators help tenants use less water- it’s a simple gadget that you screw onto the faucets. They cost maybe $4 at the most. Check another off the list!
Cost to the landlord? $4-$12
Changing out the roof soon? Go for the lightest color you can. Light color will reflect heat better and keep the unit cooler.
Cost to the landlord? Free
Insulation is another easy one. You can buy recycled natural fiber insulation- just remember to stick it in there during the winter so you don’t pass out from summer heat! Easy to do, and not pricy either. Check another one off the list.
Cost to the landlord? $200 if you toss it in yourself
Track the numbers- get the past year of utility bills from the tenants, and then track the bills after the updates are done! (Free)
Cost to the landlord? Free
Living a greener lifestyle is all over the place these days. Almost every news site I see has a green living section, and as utility costs rise, you’ll have a rental which will rise above the rest.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Green Rentals- A View from the LandLord
Will my Green Rental Property make the grade? Will all that work and investment pay off? Is there a market for green rentals? Is it possible to still make the finances work while doing good for the planet and my future tenants?
Putting money into a rental to make it more energy efficient is a tricky deal. You put in the money, and the tenants get the lower bills. Will it be worth it? We hope so!
As a Realtor focused on green homes, and the life-long treehugger of the family, I get calls regularly from folks moving to town but not yet able to make the purchase. They want to rent while they get used to the area, and they want Green.
What did we decide to do?
There is some basic low-hanging fruit that can easily make the rental more green.
We'll talk about that Next! For Now, Enjoy some eye candy-
Your Green Agent-
Patty Sylvana
Owner, Realtor, Ecobroker
E3 Properties
512-297-5658
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Part 6: How to Buy a Green Home; Paint
Part 6: How to Buy a Green Home- PAINT
You know that fresh New Home smell you notice sometimes when you tour houses? You don't really want that. That smell is coming from chemicals in the air. Off-gassing from paints and carpets give you the new home smell, but also making your air quality worse.
What is off-gassing? It's when VOC's (volatile organic compounds) and formaldehyde are released from building materials (cabinets and paints).
Although VOC contains the word Organic in it, don't be confused. VOC's are toxic and will effect air quality in your home. You want to find a paint that is Low-VOC or Zero VOC. Sherwin Williams makes a Harmony brand that works great. (I've used this one a bunch). It's more expensive than your standard paint, but I think breathing is a pretty important thing, don't you?
Most folks don't advertise the kinds of paints they have used, but home owners often leave a gallon or two of paint behind in case you need to touch anything up. This can offer you a good clue in what they've used.
This is your Green Real Estate Agent!
Stay Tuned and Stay Green-
Patty Sylvana
Owner, EcoBroker, Realtor Green
E3 Properties
512-297-5658
patty@Ethreeproperties.com
You know that fresh New Home smell you notice sometimes when you tour houses? You don't really want that. That smell is coming from chemicals in the air. Off-gassing from paints and carpets give you the new home smell, but also making your air quality worse.
What is off-gassing? It's when VOC's (volatile organic compounds) and formaldehyde are released from building materials (cabinets and paints).
Although VOC contains the word Organic in it, don't be confused. VOC's are toxic and will effect air quality in your home. You want to find a paint that is Low-VOC or Zero VOC. Sherwin Williams makes a Harmony brand that works great. (I've used this one a bunch). It's more expensive than your standard paint, but I think breathing is a pretty important thing, don't you?
Most folks don't advertise the kinds of paints they have used, but home owners often leave a gallon or two of paint behind in case you need to touch anything up. This can offer you a good clue in what they've used.
This is your Green Real Estate Agent!
Stay Tuned and Stay Green-
Patty Sylvana
Owner, EcoBroker, Realtor Green
E3 Properties
512-297-5658
patty@Ethreeproperties.com
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
How to Chose a Green Realtor
Like choosing any professional- you'll want to ask some questions. Here is some insight into some good ways to find the right person. You'll want to find someone who is personally interested in being more environmentally aware- for cost savings, for better health, and for the planet. Someone who is personally involved will be doing more to stay up to date, than you're average Joe who is just looking at a marketing strategy.
- The recently released National Association of Realtors (NAR) GREEN designation is the most basic step. Honestly, I could have taught the course myself. It's great for Realtors just starting to understand what a green home can be, but it's a pretty low standard right now.
- EcoBroker, I believe it's the first nationally recognized green training for Realtors. Does a good job of covering the basics, but doesn't go into any region-specific issues. The climate gives you different issues to deal with, so a good Green Realtor still needs to be aware of your region. You'd build a green home differently in Madison, WI than you would in Austin, TX.
- City of Austin's Green By Design program- an excellent resource for local information. Very regionally focused and provides a ton of good information. If they've attended this, then you are off to a good start. (it's great, and usually fills up quick)
- Have they had an energy audit on their home? What was it like?
- What kinds of things have they done to make their own home more 'green'?
- What types of things do they look for to help clients find green homes?
- What do they think of the current green homes on the market?
- What kind of green events do they go to regularly?
- How do they find green homes that are not 3rd party rated?
- Do they share Green resources with you when you first meet?
All of this should put you on the right path!
Enjoy!
Patty Sylvana
Owner, EcoBroker, Green Realtor
E3 Properties
Experts in Green Real Estate
512-297-5658
- The recently released National Association of Realtors (NAR) GREEN designation is the most basic step. Honestly, I could have taught the course myself. It's great for Realtors just starting to understand what a green home can be, but it's a pretty low standard right now.
- EcoBroker, I believe it's the first nationally recognized green training for Realtors. Does a good job of covering the basics, but doesn't go into any region-specific issues. The climate gives you different issues to deal with, so a good Green Realtor still needs to be aware of your region. You'd build a green home differently in Madison, WI than you would in Austin, TX.
- City of Austin's Green By Design program- an excellent resource for local information. Very regionally focused and provides a ton of good information. If they've attended this, then you are off to a good start. (it's great, and usually fills up quick)
- Have they had an energy audit on their home? What was it like?
- What kinds of things have they done to make their own home more 'green'?
- What types of things do they look for to help clients find green homes?
- What do they think of the current green homes on the market?
- What kind of green events do they go to regularly?
- How do they find green homes that are not 3rd party rated?
- Do they share Green resources with you when you first meet?
All of this should put you on the right path!
Enjoy!
Patty Sylvana
Owner, EcoBroker, Green Realtor
E3 Properties
Experts in Green Real Estate
512-297-5658
Friday, October 24, 2008
Part 5: How to Buy a Green Home- Insulation
Part 5
How to Buy a Green Home: Insulation
Here's the short of it.
The more you have here, the better off you'll be.
Insulation levels come with an "R" rating.
Highest usually for a ceiling area is R-40.
Foam does a good job because it doesn't get compressed down.
You want to keep the air pockets in there, which is really what insulation does- make air pockets around your house. Foam insulation is also available in some pretty healthy ingredients.
Cotton is also available, and a very tried and true option.
You may not be checking out the attic when you tour a home, but your inspector should be able to tell you how the insulation looks, what kind it is, and how deep it is. It's fairly inexpensive to buy and install insulation, but it might make you itch! You can hire someone to handle it.
How to Buy a Green Home: Insulation
Here's the short of it.
The more you have here, the better off you'll be.
Insulation levels come with an "R" rating.
Highest usually for a ceiling area is R-40.
Foam does a good job because it doesn't get compressed down.
You want to keep the air pockets in there, which is really what insulation does- make air pockets around your house. Foam insulation is also available in some pretty healthy ingredients.
Cotton is also available, and a very tried and true option.
You may not be checking out the attic when you tour a home, but your inspector should be able to tell you how the insulation looks, what kind it is, and how deep it is. It's fairly inexpensive to buy and install insulation, but it might make you itch! You can hire someone to handle it.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Going Solar and Saving Some Bucks
My husband is a solar installer. He installed panels on our house, and we just got them cleared for operation. We saved $100 last month! I'm really liking this.
Call some installers in your area-If they are good they'll be able to do this:
- tell you all the rebates you qualify for
- handle the rebate paperwork for you or guide you through it
-review your home energy usage and give you tips on how to use LESS before you even put solar panels on your house.
- tell you how much the panels will save you
- tell you when you will break even
Currently there is a federal rebate that gives you a $2,000 federal tax credit.
The City of Austin has the MOST AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM IN THE NATION.
They will rebate up to 80% of the cost of installing solar panels on your home.
Hurray for city owned utility companies!
Here's some things to remember:
-Southern sun exposure on your roof is ideal. (your roof is facing south and that side gets sun most of the day)
- It usually will not pay to cut down a tree to get exposure on your roof.
- Payback may take a long time if you're city or energy company doesn't offer rebates, on the other hand, you can be off the grid.
Austin Solar Info
Celestial Power
Enjoy!
Your Green Realtor
Patty Sylvana
Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
Realtor by Trade, Green at Heart
Call some installers in your area-If they are good they'll be able to do this:
- tell you all the rebates you qualify for
- handle the rebate paperwork for you or guide you through it
-review your home energy usage and give you tips on how to use LESS before you even put solar panels on your house.
- tell you how much the panels will save you
- tell you when you will break even
Currently there is a federal rebate that gives you a $2,000 federal tax credit.
The City of Austin has the MOST AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM IN THE NATION.
They will rebate up to 80% of the cost of installing solar panels on your home.
Hurray for city owned utility companies!
Here's some things to remember:
-Southern sun exposure on your roof is ideal. (your roof is facing south and that side gets sun most of the day)
- It usually will not pay to cut down a tree to get exposure on your roof.
- Payback may take a long time if you're city or energy company doesn't offer rebates, on the other hand, you can be off the grid.
Austin Solar Info
Celestial Power
Enjoy!
Your Green Realtor
Patty Sylvana
Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
Realtor by Trade, Green at Heart
Monday, October 20, 2008
Part 4: How to Buy a Green Home- HVAC
Part 4- How to Buy a Green Home- HVAC
HVAC- that means your heating and air conditioning. You'll need both here in Austin, and the air conditioning will be pretty critical.
Here's some things to look for in a greener home.
1. One story, or zoned hvac for a two story. Heat rises, so unless you have zoned air to control the upstairs temperature separately from the downstairs, you'll end up cooking your sleeping guests, or shivering down on the first floor. A one story home will be more efficient, or a 2 story 'zoned'.
2. Look for a SEER number on the HVAC system. The higher the number, the more efficient it is. 13 or higher is pretty good. The number correlates to the amount of space it can cool.
3. Sheet metal duct work and sealed and tested ducts. This carries your air to where it needs to be. Sheet metal means there is less friction for the air flow. Sealed ducts mean less leakage of your cool air, and tested ducts can tell you how much (or how little) your system is leaking.
4. Duct work within the conditioned space- this means that you can either see the duct work, or it's in the middle of the house. It seems logical now, but back in the day, the air conditioning system was stored in the attic, where it would BAKE all summer. Even if the system wasn't in the attic, the duct work was stuffed up there to keep it out of view. Result? A pretty counterproductive set up.
A/C Pumps out cold air--- Cold air leaks into attic---Cold air warms up from hot attic---- A/C must pump more cold air to keep your house cool.
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
check out some local green homes here.
HVAC- that means your heating and air conditioning. You'll need both here in Austin, and the air conditioning will be pretty critical.
Here's some things to look for in a greener home.
1. One story, or zoned hvac for a two story. Heat rises, so unless you have zoned air to control the upstairs temperature separately from the downstairs, you'll end up cooking your sleeping guests, or shivering down on the first floor. A one story home will be more efficient, or a 2 story 'zoned'.
2. Look for a SEER number on the HVAC system. The higher the number, the more efficient it is. 13 or higher is pretty good. The number correlates to the amount of space it can cool.
3. Sheet metal duct work and sealed and tested ducts. This carries your air to where it needs to be. Sheet metal means there is less friction for the air flow. Sealed ducts mean less leakage of your cool air, and tested ducts can tell you how much (or how little) your system is leaking.
4. Duct work within the conditioned space- this means that you can either see the duct work, or it's in the middle of the house. It seems logical now, but back in the day, the air conditioning system was stored in the attic, where it would BAKE all summer. Even if the system wasn't in the attic, the duct work was stuffed up there to keep it out of view. Result? A pretty counterproductive set up.
A/C Pumps out cold air--- Cold air leaks into attic---Cold air warms up from hot attic---- A/C must pump more cold air to keep your house cool.
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
check out some local green homes here.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Austin is the Best.... No REALLY
Forbes magazine just ranked Austin as the #1- Best Bang for Your Buck.
Rating included: future job growth, affordability, and housing prices!
Forbes Article
Austin is also beautiful, and Mayor Will Wynn has been promoting very farsighted plans for the city's future as a growing, green, sustainable metropolis. Plus, you can have your own urban chickens in most neighborhoods!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Part 3: How to Buy A Green Home- DIRECTIONS
Part 3:
How to Buy a Green Home:
DIRECTIONS
So, in regards to location, you probably have an idea already of where you would like to be located. Ideally close to work and schools and parks and the farmers market.
Here are a few other things to consider- regarding the direction your home faces (no it's not Feng Shui) It's specific to Austin and if you buy an existing home, these features will help you be more green!
1 Catching the Breeze: You want your home to have the longer side with plenty of windows facing South and North.
Why?
In Austin most of the year, a breeze comes from the South (and SouthEast), and if you have windows facing that direction you can catch a great breeze, air out your house and stay cooler than other homes.
2. Keeping Cool: It's easier to shade those windows that are facing North or South. Because of where the sun hits your home, you'll have a much easier time shading windows with overhangs if they are facing North or South. This is because the sun will come in at an angle and hit the East and West windows from the side- catching them off guard.
3. Trees: You will want most of your trees on the north side to lose their leaves in the winter. That way, when it feels colder, you'll have more sun on your home. For the South side, you can have trees that stay green year-round.
This is your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
How to Buy a Green Home:
DIRECTIONS
So, in regards to location, you probably have an idea already of where you would like to be located. Ideally close to work and schools and parks and the farmers market.
Here are a few other things to consider- regarding the direction your home faces (no it's not Feng Shui) It's specific to Austin and if you buy an existing home, these features will help you be more green!
1 Catching the Breeze: You want your home to have the longer side with plenty of windows facing South and North.
Why?
In Austin most of the year, a breeze comes from the South (and SouthEast), and if you have windows facing that direction you can catch a great breeze, air out your house and stay cooler than other homes.
2. Keeping Cool: It's easier to shade those windows that are facing North or South. Because of where the sun hits your home, you'll have a much easier time shading windows with overhangs if they are facing North or South. This is because the sun will come in at an angle and hit the East and West windows from the side- catching them off guard.
3. Trees: You will want most of your trees on the north side to lose their leaves in the winter. That way, when it feels colder, you'll have more sun on your home. For the South side, you can have trees that stay green year-round.
This is your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Friday, October 10, 2008
Your Roof, It's so... COOL
Your Roof, It's so... COOL
The color of your roof can make a big difference in your energy bills.
Just think of how much energy and moola you'll be saving!
What's the key?
A white roof or a reflective metal roof.
Here's how it works :
Heat hits your roof
Your roof is white
Heat bounces off the roof
Your house stays cooler
You use less energy
You put less CO2 in the atmosphere
More heat is able to escape the atmosphere
(ok, I think that's how it works... I'm a non-scientist!)
White Roof Article
When you are switching your roof, think about metal. It's much longer lasting and is very reflective to heat. Otherwise look the lightest possible shingle you can find.
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Check out Green Homes in Austin
The color of your roof can make a big difference in your energy bills.
Just think of how much energy and moola you'll be saving!
What's the key?
A white roof or a reflective metal roof.
Here's how it works :
Heat hits your roof
Your roof is white
Heat bounces off the roof
Your house stays cooler
You use less energy
You put less CO2 in the atmosphere
More heat is able to escape the atmosphere
(ok, I think that's how it works... I'm a non-scientist!)
White Roof Article
When you are switching your roof, think about metal. It's much longer lasting and is very reflective to heat. Otherwise look the lightest possible shingle you can find.
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Check out Green Homes in Austin
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Part 2: How to Buy Green- LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION
Part 2:
How to Buy A Green Home:
Location Location Location
This factor is pretty critical. You can get a home, you can renovate it, you can remodel it, you can make it super green, but you can't really move it somewhere else. This is my weak spot- learn from my mistakes- I live in a great house, in a great neighborhood where I have to DRIVE to get anywhere other than my neighbors house. The schools also suck. It's so close, and it sucks. Now I've got to look at driving my daughter somewhere else EVERY day of the work week.
There is a great tool out there that will actually SHOW YOU THE MONEY!
It takes your commute and tells you how much you'll save each month by living close to your job. COOL BEANS!! This means that it really pays out when you buy a more expensive home next to your job and walk to work. Generally you save more on gas and commuting and time than you would pay for a better location. Not to mention the trips to the gym.
What makes a green location? Here are some tips and tricks:
1. Think about where you go the most- work/ schools/parks
2. Use this great tool to figure out how much it costs to commute. This one is the best because it figures in your hourly value from your job, and it pulls that time lost commuting into the equation.
Commuting Calculator
3. Get a walkability rating for neighborhoods. This handy tools rates the neighborhood based on how many things are within walking distance.
Walk Score
4. Where is the public transportation- will you be near a commuter rail or bus line?
Austins Commuter Rail
5. Schools- If you don't have kids, this will effect your re-sale value. If you have kids, then good schools will also save you the drive to schlep your kiddos to another location.
School Info
Your Green Realtor
Patty Sylvana
Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
How to Buy A Green Home:
Location Location Location
This factor is pretty critical. You can get a home, you can renovate it, you can remodel it, you can make it super green, but you can't really move it somewhere else. This is my weak spot- learn from my mistakes- I live in a great house, in a great neighborhood where I have to DRIVE to get anywhere other than my neighbors house. The schools also suck. It's so close, and it sucks. Now I've got to look at driving my daughter somewhere else EVERY day of the work week.
There is a great tool out there that will actually SHOW YOU THE MONEY!
It takes your commute and tells you how much you'll save each month by living close to your job. COOL BEANS!! This means that it really pays out when you buy a more expensive home next to your job and walk to work. Generally you save more on gas and commuting and time than you would pay for a better location. Not to mention the trips to the gym.
What makes a green location? Here are some tips and tricks:
1. Think about where you go the most- work/ schools/parks
2. Use this great tool to figure out how much it costs to commute. This one is the best because it figures in your hourly value from your job, and it pulls that time lost commuting into the equation.
Commuting Calculator
3. Get a walkability rating for neighborhoods. This handy tools rates the neighborhood based on how many things are within walking distance.
Walk Score
4. Where is the public transportation- will you be near a commuter rail or bus line?
Austins Commuter Rail
5. Schools- If you don't have kids, this will effect your re-sale value. If you have kids, then good schools will also save you the drive to schlep your kiddos to another location.
School Info
Your Green Realtor
Patty Sylvana
Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Austin's Zero Waste Plan
Austin has a plan to become ZERO WASTE!
I'm thrilled about the idea. We will be one of the first in the nation to implement such plan. I know that Vancouver is implementing one right now. Thank you to Mayor Will Wynn for his progressive thinking and long-sightedness about the sustainability of our city.
Here's the plan
"Austin wastes an estimated $40Million annually by not re-using or recylcling products "
My husband was dropping some things off at the dump and literally brought back a completely perfect 'Pier 1' style coffee table, and dominoes still in the wrapper that someone was also dropping off at the dump. The re-use of amazing things there is really an untapped resource!
We should integrate those folks that find deals and sell them on ebay!
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Realtor by Trade, Green at Heart
I'm thrilled about the idea. We will be one of the first in the nation to implement such plan. I know that Vancouver is implementing one right now. Thank you to Mayor Will Wynn for his progressive thinking and long-sightedness about the sustainability of our city.
Here's the plan
"Austin wastes an estimated $40Million annually by not re-using or recylcling products "
My husband was dropping some things off at the dump and literally brought back a completely perfect 'Pier 1' style coffee table, and dominoes still in the wrapper that someone was also dropping off at the dump. The re-use of amazing things there is really an untapped resource!
We should integrate those folks that find deals and sell them on ebay!
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Realtor by Trade, Green at Heart
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Part 1: How to Buy a Green Home- NEW OR OLD
Part 1
How to Buy a Green Home
New or Old
Forget all that jazz about new is better- upgraded state of the art yadda yadda.
Think about an existing home that was remodeled, or a new home which is in an older neighborhood. (this is called in-fill when a builder creates a new home on an existing lot)
Not only will you get tried and true techniques, but you'll often have mature trees to boot!
Now, in saying that, there are some AMAZING things being done out there. Really beautiful and green. I'm a sucker- but get a NEW HOME in an ESTABLISHED neighborhood.
Having a home that has been remodeled green means that less resources were used, less materials were shipped, many times the home is closer to town and you also benefit from mature trees and the shade they bring. The home is also 'broken in'. No surprises here. These walls have been holding up for years, and many more to come.
You could even look at getting a home that is just BEGGING to go green. They are out there- they ask me to bring them buyers. We'll go over what is important in finding a Green Location next!
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
How to Buy a Green Home
New or Old
Forget all that jazz about new is better- upgraded state of the art yadda yadda.
Think about an existing home that was remodeled, or a new home which is in an older neighborhood. (this is called in-fill when a builder creates a new home on an existing lot)
Not only will you get tried and true techniques, but you'll often have mature trees to boot!
Now, in saying that, there are some AMAZING things being done out there. Really beautiful and green. I'm a sucker- but get a NEW HOME in an ESTABLISHED neighborhood.
Having a home that has been remodeled green means that less resources were used, less materials were shipped, many times the home is closer to town and you also benefit from mature trees and the shade they bring. The home is also 'broken in'. No surprises here. These walls have been holding up for years, and many more to come.
You could even look at getting a home that is just BEGGING to go green. They are out there- they ask me to bring them buyers. We'll go over what is important in finding a Green Location next!
Your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
512-297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Thursday, June 12, 2008
IT'S CHICKEN DAY!
Wahooo!! It's chicken day! Now that we have so much space, it's time to get some chickens.
Callahan's by the airport carries all sorts of country things- so close in, so far out!
We're going for chicks because they are so danged cute. Something like 1/2 of them are supposed to die on me. That's a total bummer. Not sure what to tell Celeste about death. She's only 4. We talk about bugs dying in the pool, but that's been pretty much the extent of it. A friend had some ideas that we could just say they flew away. Hmmm... she might catch on to that one.
So- CHICKENS CHICKENS CHICKENS CHICKENS!
I'll post photos later!
Callahan's by the airport carries all sorts of country things- so close in, so far out!
We're going for chicks because they are so danged cute. Something like 1/2 of them are supposed to die on me. That's a total bummer. Not sure what to tell Celeste about death. She's only 4. We talk about bugs dying in the pool, but that's been pretty much the extent of it. A friend had some ideas that we could just say they flew away. Hmmm... she might catch on to that one.
So- CHICKENS CHICKENS CHICKENS CHICKENS!
I'll post photos later!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
The magical growing yard
So, we've got this yard- it just grew 3 times larger. It's a little intimidating! There was a fence closing in a section of the yard by the house. The other 2/3 of the yard was out sight, out of mind... it's grassy with a nice grove of trees and a creek. It's a great space, mind you, but boy, that's a big project.
I've got to step up to the plate now and figure out the least expensive way to remove grass and make it look nice. I guess all that planning comes in handy- break it down into small steps.
1. plant vines to hide the chainlink
2. put in soaker hoses for the vines
3. build a fire pit
It will be good to sit with the space for a while and get a feeling for it. The hard part is visiting great houses and trying to figure out how to do what they did in my yard AND not go broke AND be low water.
The real first step is that patch of grass I ripped out right by the mailbox. I'm totally stuck on that. It seemed like a good idea and I've got a complete block on what to do next.
Here's a question for you-
What will not need mowing, doesn't get tall, likes the sun, and won't mind being driven on occasionally?
This is your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
Keller Williams Realty
(512) 297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
I've got to step up to the plate now and figure out the least expensive way to remove grass and make it look nice. I guess all that planning comes in handy- break it down into small steps.
1. plant vines to hide the chainlink
2. put in soaker hoses for the vines
3. build a fire pit
It will be good to sit with the space for a while and get a feeling for it. The hard part is visiting great houses and trying to figure out how to do what they did in my yard AND not go broke AND be low water.
The real first step is that patch of grass I ripped out right by the mailbox. I'm totally stuck on that. It seemed like a good idea and I've got a complete block on what to do next.
Here's a question for you-
What will not need mowing, doesn't get tall, likes the sun, and won't mind being driven on occasionally?
This is your Green Realtor
Stay Tuned and Stay Green
Patty Sylvana
Keller Williams Realty
(512) 297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Green Drinks Happy Hour
Friday Friday Friday!
Come on by Opal Divines for some Green Drinks and some Green Ideas.
The special guest this month will be Matt Stevens with Green Zone Homes.
This company can put money in your pocket! They do energy audits on homes to tell you where is the best bang for your buck- the age-old windows versus more insulation dilemma will be solved! I like them because they aren't affiliated with a roofer/window/air-conditioning company. Straight up unbiased information.
Friday May 30th
Opal Divines on 6th St
5:30-8pm
Hosted by Yours Truly-
Patty Sylvana, Green Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
(512) 297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Realtor by Trade, Green at Heart
Come on by Opal Divines for some Green Drinks and some Green Ideas.
The special guest this month will be Matt Stevens with Green Zone Homes.
This company can put money in your pocket! They do energy audits on homes to tell you where is the best bang for your buck- the age-old windows versus more insulation dilemma will be solved! I like them because they aren't affiliated with a roofer/window/air-conditioning company. Straight up unbiased information.
Friday May 30th
Opal Divines on 6th St
5:30-8pm
Hosted by Yours Truly-
Patty Sylvana, Green Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
(512) 297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Realtor by Trade, Green at Heart
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Think you Can't Afford a Home? Buying on a Budget-
So you think you can't afford a home in Austin? Well, yes, things are getting pricey, but not out of reach. If you're on a tight budget and looking to buy your first home, the City of Austin wants to help! They will give you $10,000- $40,000 to help you into a place of your own.
Here are the income qualifications- (you must make under this amount)
- 1 person household - $39,850
- 2 person household - $45,500
- 3 person household - $51,200
- 4 person household - $56,900
- 5 person household - $61,450
Here are the requirements:
- First time homebuyer
- Can't have assets (savings etc) valued at over 1/2 of your income.
- Use one of the trained lenders (they have a big list)
- Get pre-qualified with one the lenders (ie. you qualify for this much house on your measly income, then add $10-$40k to that amount)
- Go to the homebuyer classes
- Homes 1978 and newer qualify for up to $40k
- Homes older than 1978 qualify for up to $10k
How it Works:
- Sign up for the class
-Meet with the lender
-Take the class
-Look for houses
-Find THE ONE
- Put in an offer
- Own a HOME!
Here's some more info! Give me a ring if you have any questions-
MONEY TO BUY A HOME
If you like lots of details- here you go!
The $10,000 is basically free moola which you will not pay back if you stay in the home for 10 years. If you move earlier- say 5 years, you owe $5,000 back to the city.
The $40,000 plan is more complicated, but still great. The city gives you a chunk of money, but if you sell or re-finance your house, they would like their moola back. Also, it's an equity share program which means that if you borrowed $40k and the house was worth $120k total, then they lent you 33% of the value of the home. Now when you sell, the house is worth $220k, so you pay the city back their $40k plus 33% of any growth in value of the home.
This is your green Realtor
Stay tuned and stay green-
Patty Sylvana
Realtor by Trade Green at Heart
Keller Williams Realty
(512) 297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Here are the income qualifications- (you must make under this amount)
- 1 person household - $39,850
- 2 person household - $45,500
- 3 person household - $51,200
- 4 person household - $56,900
- 5 person household - $61,450
Here are the requirements:
- First time homebuyer
- Can't have assets (savings etc) valued at over 1/2 of your income.
- Use one of the trained lenders (they have a big list)
- Get pre-qualified with one the lenders (ie. you qualify for this much house on your measly income, then add $10-$40k to that amount)
- Go to the homebuyer classes
- Homes 1978 and newer qualify for up to $40k
- Homes older than 1978 qualify for up to $10k
How it Works:
- Sign up for the class
-Meet with the lender
-Take the class
-Look for houses
-Find THE ONE
- Put in an offer
- Own a HOME!
Here's some more info! Give me a ring if you have any questions-
MONEY TO BUY A HOME
If you like lots of details- here you go!
The $10,000 is basically free moola which you will not pay back if you stay in the home for 10 years. If you move earlier- say 5 years, you owe $5,000 back to the city.
The $40,000 plan is more complicated, but still great. The city gives you a chunk of money, but if you sell or re-finance your house, they would like their moola back. Also, it's an equity share program which means that if you borrowed $40k and the house was worth $120k total, then they lent you 33% of the value of the home. Now when you sell, the house is worth $220k, so you pay the city back their $40k plus 33% of any growth in value of the home.
This is your green Realtor
Stay tuned and stay green-
Patty Sylvana
Realtor by Trade Green at Heart
Keller Williams Realty
(512) 297-5658
patty@GreenAustinProperties.com
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
How to Buy or Sell a Green Home
How to Buy or Sell a Green Home
Workshop Coming Up!
Wed, April 2nd
6:30-8:00pm
North Austin
Short, sweet and green, this workshop will cover all the basics of buying or selling your green home.
What to look for and how to find them, how to price and market your home, green financing and lots of other cool stuff!
Details and RSVP here:
www.GreenHomeWorkshop.com
Workshop Coming Up!
Wed, April 2nd
6:30-8:00pm
North Austin
Short, sweet and green, this workshop will cover all the basics of buying or selling your green home.
What to look for and how to find them, how to price and market your home, green financing and lots of other cool stuff!
Details and RSVP here:
www.GreenHomeWorkshop.com
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Natural Home Mag Votes Mueller #1
Natural Home Magazines listed Mueller here in Austin as #1 in their Top 10 Green Neighborhoods article this month.
The Mueller Neighborhood got the kudos for their progressive green initiatives such as:
- green home options like tankless water heaters and solar panels
- greywater systems
- pedestrian friendliness
- 25% of housing for lower income households.
Congratulations to Mueller!
Patty Sylvana
Green Realtor
Keller Williams Realty
patty@GreenAustinProperties
(512) 297-5658
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