Maries Home Finder Blog

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Marie Dickson — Sun, 13 May 2012 11:05:01 +0000

Did you know that sealing and insulating your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a home more comfortable and energy efficient? It is a project that is also easily done yourself. The heating and cooling of your home accounts for about 50 percent to 70 percent of the energy used. So unless your home was built as an energy-efficient home, adding insulation will probably reduce your utility bills. Even a small amount of insulation-if properly installed-can reduce energy costs dramatically.

Energy Star has created a comprehensive do-it-yourself guide to sealing and insulating your home. The guide provides step by step instructions and photos to:

1.Learn how to find and seal hidden attic and basement air leaks

2.Determine if your attic insulation is adequate, and learn how to add more

3.Make sure your improvements are done safely

4.Reduce energy bills and help protect the environment

Click here to download the guide.

Make sure to check your state and local codes before starting any project and follow all safety precautions.

Tax Lien Tips

Marie Dickson — Sun, 06 May 2012 11:05:09 +0000

It’s no wonder that tax relief specialists thrive in such great numbers – taxes are seriously complicated and repercussions of failing to pay taxes are significant. Once you get stuck with a tax lien, you feel trapped. Here are tips from How to Do Things on what can you do to remove a tax lien?

A tax lien is a legal way for the IRS to get an individual to pay tax debt that is owed to them. A tax lien can be placed on either your personal or real property when you fail to pay taxes within a given period of time. For example, an IRS tax lien can attach to your possessions (house, car, boat) and to any property or items that you may acquire even after the IRS files a lien. The lien is usually filed at a local County Clerk’s office and is a public document. It can also be filed with the Secretary of State.

The IRS gains legal claim on property until the lienor can pay the tax that is owed, the idea being to encourage the lienor to pay the tax. If the IRS has placed a tax lien on you, it will seriously affect your credit rating and will either render sale of personal property difficult or impossible. Removing a tax lien should be a huge priority for you, as you’re no doubt well aware.

What are the options?
First, time is of the essence. You have 30 days to respond to a tax lien after receiving a “Final Notice of Intent to Levy” so respond swiftly.

Wait it out and let the tax lien expire. For several reasons, this is not the best option. There is a set time period in which a tax lien can be acted upon. For tax liens more recent than November 6, 1990, the tax lien becomes unenforceable after 10 years. For all liens prior to November 6, 1990, the tax lien becomes unenforceable after six years. If you have had a tax lien for a considerable amount of time and the IRS hasn’t seen fit to act upon it, perhaps just waiting for the period to expire is an option you wish to consider. If the period expires with no extension, then the possibility of an action on the tax lien has been removed. This option certainly requires the least amount of effort, but you will have to live with the possibility that the tax lien will be extended before it expires. In addition, the tax lien can show on your credit report forever if you don’t pay anything to remove it.

Why might the IRS decide to let the period expire without hounding you any further or acting upon the tax lien? You might not realize it but it costs the IRS money every extra step of the way when they are trying to get hold of taxes that are owed. The IRS has made a science of figuring out whether this extra effort is worth the money and if they can ultimately expect to collect. Hence, the hesitation – the IRS may determine that it’s not in their best interest to proceed in collecting on a tax lien. While this is good for you, it does nothing to remove the tax lien from your credit report. It remainsl in effect, whether the IRS acts upon it or not.

Pay the tax that is due. If you choose this option, your tax lien should be removed within 30 days. It can be removed from your credit report as well. Upon removal of the tax lien, you may receive proof that the lien has been removed in the form of a certificate copy. Ask for a copy of this documentation if it is not sent automatically.
Proving financial hardship. Consider proving financial hardship. This means you will need to prove to the IRS that levying money in your bank account will cause more harm than good and that it may cause you to never be able to pay them what you owe them. You must realize that the IRS wants to get the tax money you owe, so if you declare that you are, in their terms, “Currently Not Collectible”, you can buy some time and consult with a tax professional to help you create a realistic tax payback plan.

Get Your Lawn in Shape

Marie Dickson — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 11:03:57 +0000

Even if the weather in your area is still a bit chilly, it’s time to start thinking about giving your lawn a little TLC.

For many, this means heading down to the local home improvement warehouse to buy chemical products that might produce a green lawn, but will do a great deal of damage to the soil, water, and wildlife in the process. Here are some tips from Care2.com

If you’d rather take a more organic approach to lawn care, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Fertilization: Spring is a crucial time to fertilize because it replenishes the food reserves your yard draws from while dormant in the winter and fuels grass’ rapid growth phase. Hopefully, you’ve been composting your kitchen waste all year long, and you have the means to make compost tea to fertilize your lawn and garden. This will produce a thick, healthy lawn that also helps prevent weeds. (And don’t worry: if you haven’t been composting, there are lots of packaged organic fertilizers on the market, but just like when shopping for organic foods, be careful and read the label).

Weed control: Apply a pre-emergent weed killer on lawns to prevent grassy weeds from germinating. Spring broadleaf weeds like dandelions, clovers and plantains, are best prevented by maintaining a proper mowing height and fertilization. After a mild winter, annual weeds that germinate in the fall, like henbit and chickweed, will be more visible and require higher levels of broadleaf weed control through herbicides. Never use chemical weed killers! Check out natural and effective options like Burn Out, (made from clove oil, vinegar and lemon juice) instead.

Pest control/Disease repair: Severe winters may increase the incidence of winter diseases such as snow mold and Bermuda dead spot. Proper cultural care is important in helping your lawn recover from stress related winter diseases. Properly timed fertilizer application and mowing at the recommended height for your grass type are two items that will aid in the recovery of your lawn.

Mowing: Contrary to popular belief, setting your mower at a very low height can actually increase weeds by exposing the soil surface to sunlight and removing stored nutrients in leaf blades. Cool weather grasses, such as bluegrass, ryegrass and fescues, should maintain a height of 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Warm season grasses, like bermuda, zoysia, St. Augustine and centipede, should be kept at 1.5 to 2.5 inches tall. Also, think about skipping the loud, carbon-intensive gas powered mower for an electric or human-powered alternative.

What You Need to Know: Condominiums

Marie Dickson — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:03:46 +0000

The condominium market has been rising steadily for the past few years. According to the National Association of REALTORS(R), condo values rose more than 27 percent between 2000 and 2002, and the median value of condos ($163,500) sat just below that of single-family homes ($168,400) in mid-2003. While this trend is not guaranteed to continue, the condo market has regained the momentum and importance it had in the initial condo boom of the 1980s.

According to this article from Lending Tree, condo buyers fall into three main groups: first-time buyers making the jump from renting; people looking to buy a second home that they will use part-time; and retirees who are trading in high-end homes for the low-maintenance lifestyle a condo provides.

A condominium can be a great purchase under the right set of circumstances, but some people still dismiss them as glorified apartments. If you’re not comfortable living within condo rules and restrictions, and in close proximity to others, then a condo is probably not the place for you. Before you buy a condominium, make sure you understand exactly what is involved in condo living.

What Exactly Is a Condominium?

A condominium development can take the form of apartment-style complexes, townhouses or converted multi-family dwellings. What distinguishes it from other multi-tenant buildings is that the developer has legally declared it a condominium, and individuals can purchase units in the building or complex. In most states, this means that the development falls under specially designated laws and regulations applied to condominiums.

When purchasing a condo, the owner buys the title to his or her individual unit, up to the walls, but not including them. A common description of a condominium is a “box in the air.”

Common areas of the development, such as stairwells, dividing and outer walls, fitness centers and rooftop gardens, are under shared ownership. Each unit owner holds an interest in these spaces. In order to manage the maintenance and repair of the shared common areas, every condo development has a condominium association, also known as a unit-owners’ association. The association is elected by condo owners and makes communal decisions in the interest of the community.

Condo costs include:

Down payment, mortgage and property tax
Condo fees, otherwise known as maintenance fees. Condo fees are paid by every resident to help with the maintenance of the building, pay the salaries of groundskeepers, concierges or handymen, and provide luxury facilities such as a pool, gym or rooftop garden. Condo fees are paid monthly and are subject to change
Special assessment fees. These fees may be requested when an unexpected repair or planned modification exceeds the cost of the condo fees collected

Rules to Live By

Condominiums are governed by a set of rules called Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs). The rules vary from one condo development to another. They may impose restrictions on pet ownership, noise levels, remodeling projects, and renting. The CC&Rs are enforced by the condo association. It’s a good idea to read the CC&Rs to make sure that you are comfortable with them before you purchase a condominium.

Condo Associations and Fees

The condominium association budgets and determines the condo fees for all units. Condo fees are typically determined by the size of your unit, how many units are currently occupied, and the projected expenses for building maintenance and repair.

Condo associations vary in their organization and expertise. Some questions you may want to look into are:

Does the association maintain a reserve of funds to pay for unexpected and potentially expensive repairs? This will help you determine whether you are likely to get hit with special assessment fees.
Has the association maintained the building in good repair? Do they handle repairs and maintenance before they become big problems? Before buying, it’s a good idea to get an inspection done on the unit you’re interested in, as well as the entire structure, to identify any potential problems.
Does the association have plans to add any facilities, such as a swimming pool or gym, in the near future? This could cause a sudden increase in your fees. Ask to see the minutes of the last few condo association meetings, which should reveal any such plans.
Does the development have any pending legal actions? Are there any disputes between owners, with developers or with the association that you should know about?
What is the association’s reputation in the building? Talk to other owners for comments or complaints about the association’s activities.

A Word about Developers

Developers do not generally retain a long-term interest in a building, but the work that they put into it is important. A home inspection can turn up major structural flaws in the building, but don’t rely on this alone. You should research the developer’s track record, and find out if there have been any problems with its previous developments. Also find out if the developer is still in business and whether it is financially stable. If the developer is no longer in business, your condo association may have little or no legal recourse if major flaws are discovered in the property.

Ten Ways to Save on Groceries

Marie Dickson — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 11:04:13 +0000

If you are looking for ways save money, cutting back on grocery expenses is often an easy way to reduce your spending.

Here are ten tips to master frugal grocery shopping. A little planning can save you some big bucks over the long term.

1. Make a list.

Before you head out to the store, prepare a list of everything you need, making sure you have everything needed for your weekly menu. Before you leave, check to make sure you don’t have it in your pantry, fridge or freezer. Stick to that list and don’t buy anything else.

2. Plan a menu.

Plan a weekly menu for each week. This way you will know exactly what to buy. Be sure to plan a leftovers night.

3. Don’t shop hungry.

When you’re hungry, everything looks good. When you shop hungry you’ll end up spending a lot more. Eat first and then you will be able to stick to your list.

4. Set a budget.

When you go to the store, know exactly how much you can spend. Then try your best to stick within that limit. Keep a running tally as you shop to ensure that you’re within your budget.

5. Create a grocery spreadsheet.

Keep your grocery receipts, then enter into a spreadsheet. This will be your price and comparison list. Use it so you know when bulk or sale items are a good deal.

6. Cook and freeze.

Plan to cook a big amount of food and freeze it for multiple dinners. A great idea is to use one Sunday and cook a week’s (or even a month’s) worth of dinners. Plan 5-6 freezable dinners and cook them all at once.

7. Shop for specials.

Every store has specials. Be sure to look for them in the newspaper, or when you get to the store. Don’t buy things you don’t use just because they are on sale; make sure you will use the items.

8. Buy store brands.

Brand names are often no better than generic, and you’re paying for all the advertising they do to have a brand name. Give the store brand a try, and often you won’t notice a difference.

9. No “one-item” trips.

They waste gas, and almost inevitably, you buy more than that one item. If you plan ahead, make a weekly menu, and shop with a list, this should drastically reduce the number of trips you make for a small number of items.

10. Stock up.

Sale items can be a great deal. If it’s an item you normally use, buy a bunch of them.

Single-Family – Bellingham, MA 02019 is now new to the market!

Marie Dickson — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:00:31 +0000

Attention contractors and handy folks. Terrific opportunity in North bellingham location. Solid home in need of updates and some improvements. Nice level lot with in ground lap pool. Garage was converted to living space years ago/offers the possiblilty of creating a laundry room. Screened porch. Title V has passed, awaiting paperwork. Any and all offers will be presented to owner representative on 4/15/12. Range marketing. Owner representative will consider offers between $180,000 and 200,000

This is a Ranch style home and features 6 total rooms, 1 full bath, 3 bedrooms, 0.23 Acres, and is currently available for $180,000.

For complete details click here.

How to Get a Mortgage When You Are Self-Employed

Marie Dickson — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 11:04:00 +0000

Getting a mortgage these days can be tough and it is even tougher for small-business owners. Potential self-employed borrowers usually have variability in their income streams. Today, banks are requiring more financial documentation from all buyers, and self-employed borrowers tend to face more scrutiny.

Small-business owners may have a smaller income because they are typically knowledgeable about tax deductions and credits. This often reduces the amount of taxable income they have. Reducing the amount of taxable income on your tax returns means to the lender there is less income to qualify for a loan.

There are ways self-employed borrowers can increase their chances of getting a home loan, however. Here are a few tips:

What is the lenders history?

Find out if the lender has a history of working with self-employed borrowers. Self-employed borrowers should focus more on finding a lender that will understand their situation rather than shop the loan rate. There are individual loan officers who will be able to think out of the box or come up with solutions. The lender you choose is key.

Consider portfolio lenders.

Portfolio lenders have more flexibility in originating loans because they don’t have to sell the loan to Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. Portfolio lenders hold their own loans. That makes a big difference in their ability to loan. Another option may to consider credit unions. Many credit unions also keep a good portion of loans on their books.

Boost your income.

Show you make as much money as possible on your tax return. You might need to amend your tax returns. Some lenders will look at a loan application again if they have sent in amended returns to the government. Sometimes by rethinking deductions and credits on income taxes, a borrower can increase his qualifying income. Of course, with this strategy, the borrower would also face a new tax bill.

Is Your Kitchen Making You Fat?

Marie Dickson — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 11:03:44 +0000

If you have been packing on the pounds it may be your kitchen that is to blame. New research has shown that it could be your kitchen making you gain weight.

Here are some tips on how to keep your kitchen from contributing to a growing waistline.

No Media

The TV in the kitchen is now a media snack station. Parking yourself in front of the TV with food all around you makes snack time a lot easier. Computers in the kitchen can also lead to mindless munching and web surfing. It’s too easy to grab a bite when all the food is within arm’s reach.

Stand Up

Who doesn’t love an island prep station? But all the handy seating around the island is an invitation to linger over snacks. So lose all the stools to help resist temptation to gather in the kitchen.

Open Invitation

The so-called great room isn’t so great for your weight. Combination living/kitchen areas make your kitchen the focal point of the home. Add a few partition walls or screens to keep the fridge and cabinets out of sight when relaxing, and watching TV in the living room.

Skimp on Storage

Pantries, large cabinets are so appealing and offer a great place to stockpile food. They also offer lots of temptation. Too many trips to bargain bulk stores will have your storage full in no time and also create a mentality of surplus. More is always more especially when it comes to food.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Marie Dickson — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 11:03:38 +0000

Spring is here and you know what that means…Spring Cleaning! That’s right it time to get down and dirty and get your home spic and span.

Here are some tips from guru Martha Stewart to get you started on your Spring Cleaning.

Clean Windows

Dirty panes are no problem when you use rubber-edged squeegees, which are quicker and more effective than cloth or newspaper. They come in a variety of sizes — and a screw-on extension will let you reach high spots.

To start, dip a sponge into a bucket of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Wet window; rub dirt away. Dampen squeegee; starting at an upper corner, draw it down pane from top to bottom. Repeat, overlapping strokes and wiping rubber edge with sponge after each stroke. (For large windows, ”snake” squeegee back and forth; then touch up edges.) Dry windowsills with a cloth.

Dust Lightbulbs
Unscrew lightbulbs and polish the bulbs with a microfiber cloth dampened with water (avoid wetting the metal screw base). Clean the bulbs in recessed ceiling fixtures with a telescoping lamb’s wool duster.

Wash Your Blinds
Once or twice a year, wipe wooden blinds with a few drops of gentle wood cleaner on a nearly dry sponge. Aluminum blinds can be washed outdoors: Place them on an old sheet on a slanted surface, and scrub with water and a noncorrosive cleaner. Use a hose to rinse well, and then dry the blinds thoroughly with a towel to prevent rust.

Switch It Up
Change the direction of your ceiling fans. While the standard counterclockwise direction provides a pleasant breeze during warm months, you should run the fan clockwise in cold weather. This creates an upward draft, redistributing the warm air hovering near the ceiling throughout the room, thus heating your home more efficiently. Most fans have a switch on the base to adjust the rotation.

Clean Out the Refrigerator
This task is a daunting undertaking; make it more manageable by breaking it down. The first step is to wipe up spills immediately so surfaces won’t become stained. Make it a habit to throw out old food once a week.

Every few months, wash the interior with a solution of two tablespoons of baking soda for every quart of warm water. Wash removable shelves and drawers in the solution (let glass shelves come to room temperature first so warm water won’t crack them). Loosen hardened spills on fixed parts by wetting the area with the solution, allowing the residue to soften.

Use a toothbrush to scrub crannies. Twice a year, vacuum or brush dust from the condenser coils to keep the system from overheating.

Deep-Clean Carpets and Rugs
For synthetic carpeting, rent or buy a shampooer/extractor — a machine that cleans the fibers and removes traces of soap using hot water. Open windows and let air flow to help carpets dry. If you have wool carpets or rugs, or any that are valuable or delicate, contact a professional for cleaning.

Clean Your Curtains
Vacuum and steam-clean curtains or have them dry-cleaned. If you’ll be replacing heavy curtains with lighter ones as the weather gets warmer, it is especially important to remove dust and dirt before putting the curtains away for storage.

Create a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

Marie Dickson — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 11:07:58 +0000

Candles can make a home look inviting, cozy and warm. They can also give a glow to many people’s skin tones. Candles come in many sizes, shapes and scents. Burning of candles during a showing can make the home feel warm and inviting making the buyer feel relaxed and calm. Try to pick out colors like maroon (cinnamon) orange (pumpkin) these scents are soothing and relaxing scents and will help make the potential sellers feel like home. The placing of the candles is very important. The best places to put them are in the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen table, window sills, and fireplace mantel.

If you have a fireplace, lighting a fire is a sure way to give that room a warm and welcoming feeling. Everybody loves a fireplace and your buyers will too.

Bake something delicious smelling. The Real Estate experts swear by the just baked smell when showing a home. It makes your potential buyers feel right at home. Things like Apple pie; chocolate chip cookies or fresh baked bread all will create that warm and inviting feeling.

Family photos in the home make your home feel like a house full of love. Potential buyers who see photos of a family having fun, and enjoying life in their home will create a sense of a home that has a lot of memories and love.

Bottom line, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere can help you sell your home.