Real Estate Guide 07.10.2020 by Brentwood Press & Publishing

ESTATE REAL G U I D E THE PRESS

JULY 10, 2020

Photo by Tony Kukulich

We live locally and we work locally! At The Reverse Mortgage Group, we only offer reverse mortgages. We don’t try to be everything to everyone; instead, we specialize in reverse mortgages.

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• Flexible payment options! • No principal and interest payments required!

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* Taxes and insurance paid by owner. Must be primary residence, and normal upkeep required.

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REVERSE MORTGAGE SPECIALIST

925-969-0380 Beth@YourReverse.com www.YourReverse.com 3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000, Pleasant Hill CA 94523

Licensed by Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act.

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Real estate inventory, rates both low

Coronavirus is making it really difficult for agents to be able to show properties. It seems that the people who are working are working harder than ever.

DAWNMARIE FEHR

omeowners worried about selling their home during a pandemic shouldn’t be. At

least, not in East County. “It’s definitely a seller’s market right now,” said Debbie Anthony of Compass Real Estate. “We have no inventory. We had no inventory before the pandemic, and we have no inventory now. What we do have is very low interest rates with a lot of people looking to make a change in their home status.” Anthony said she is working extremely hard, as is everyone else in her industry. COVID-19 did slow down the real estate business in early spring, but now things have picked up, with extra tasks being required of agents. “Coronavirus is making it really difficult for agents to be able to show properties,” Anthony said. “It seems that the people who are working are working harder than ever.” She explained extra cleaning practices and supplies, as well as paperwork proving she and her clients are symptom-free, are now necessary parts of her daily routine. Cecily Tippery of Berkshire Hathaway

Photo courtesy of Microstockhub.com

Realtors in East County are finding it to be a seller’s market right now due to the minimal availability of properties and low interest rates. Home Services said she follows behind her clients, wiping down any surfaces they inadvertently touch. “You’re walking around with gloves and a mask and sanitary wipes,” she said when describing how her days have changed due to COVID-19. “I open doors for people and make sure we get rid of the wipes before the next showing, we have a whole procedure. You want to keep yourself and your clients safe, and you don’t want to be responsible if someone gets ill.” Tippery also noted the market’s low

inventory but said prospective buyers should not give up. She cited tax benefits and low-interest rates as a good incentive to buy. “Some think of it as an investment, and it is in one sense, because you are building wealth,” she explained. “But with all the stuff going on, it’s very evident to me that the best way to build wealth is to own a home.” For clients worried about coming up with a large down payment, Anthony said it is possible to purchase a home with very

– Debbie Anthony, Compass Real Estate little cash. “Last year, 40% of my business was 103% financing,” she said. “The interest rate is a little bit higher, but it gets you into a house with almost no money down.” Debbie Anthony can be reached at 925-262-7702. For more information, visit https://www.compass.com/agents/ debbie-anthony/. Cecily Tippery can be reached at 925-634-7820. For more information, visit https://www.bhhsdrysdale.com/ real-estate-agent/361/cecily-tippery.

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Beth Miller-Rowe, your reverse mortgage specialist DAWNMARIE FEHR

everse mortgages are often a misunderstood product in today’s mortgage market. Beth Miller-Rowe and her team at The Reverse

Mortgage Group have made it their mission to clear up the myths surrounding reverse mortgages and help people decide if one is right for them. In a nutshell, a reverse mortgage allows a homeowner to borrow a certain percentage of the value of their house. Homeowners may access their money in a variety of ways such as a line of credit or a monthly income stream or even a lump sum cash payment. Reverse mortgages do not require repayment until the homeowner no longer resides in their home, or until they pass away. Homeowners can choose to make payments or skip them. “These loans allow you to borrow some of the equity in your home today and preserve some of it for tomorrow,” Miller-Rowe said. Miller-Rowe was born in Michigan but spent her formative years with her family in Georgia before moving back to Michigan and then attending college in Iowa. In 1982 with a dual degree in economics and business administration, MillerRowe packed her car and drove west to support her sister in California, who was going through a divorce at the time. She had no idea the move would be permanent. “When I first arrived here, I had been driving for four days and ‘When the Lights go Down in the City’ by Journey came on as I crossed the Bay Bridge,” Miller-Rowe recalled. “I cranked it up and sang with tears streaming down my face, ‘I am here.’” And here she was. Miller-Rowe instantly fell in the love with the natural wonders of the California Bay Area and recalls being especially drawn to the ocean. She loved San Francisco and decided to make California her new home. Miller-Rowe did not immediately begin selling mortgage products, though. She initially gained a position selling dictation equipment, until one of her customers told her she was in the wrong business. “I called on a mortgage broker, and he had me come back three or four times to do the presentation,” she said. “Then he told me he never had any intention of buying my equipment, he just wanted to hear me sell it.” Once she was in the mortgage business, Miller-Rowe realized the truth of that statement. She now offers reverse mortgages exclusively, meeting people in their homes to explain the ins and out of the process and helping them to make an informed decision. COVID-19 did put a temporary halt to her home visits, but Miller-Rowe simply pivoted to virtual meetings. While Zoom worked during the spring, she said she is very happy to be allowed back into homes to meet clients face-to-face. “I am now going out again as long as they are comfortable,” she said. “I have masks and sanitizing spray, and we just distance ourselves around the dining room tables, and we are able to start having those conversations again, which is so much more enjoyable.” Sandie Schneider was a client of Miller-Rowe’s three years ago. The 77-year-old widow said she used a reverse mortgage to create financial stability after her husband died. “There was a significant change in my income stream,” ON THE COVER: Beth Miller-Rowe of The Reverse Mortgage Group, brings her years of expertise to each of her clients as she helps them navigate through the reverse mortgage process. Photo by Tony Kukulich.

Photo by Tony Kukulich

While the current real estate atmosphere is different due to coronavirus regulations, Beth Miller-Rowe and her team at The Reverse Mortgage Group get the job done through virtual meetings and Zoom conferences. Restrictions have eased a bit recently and Miller-Rowe has begun meeting clients who are comfortable, in their homes with the appropriate social-distancing. Schneider said. “This was the best way to go and leave me where I wanted to be. It was the answer to my problems.” Schneider noted the process was remarkably painless with Miller-Rowe’s team, and she has recommended reverse mortgages to several friends. “(Beth) was such a professional,” Schneider recalled. “I always felt I was in good hands.” During her interview, Miller-Rowe took some time to clear up some of the myths surrounding reverse mortgages and answer some questions about her business. Reverse mortgages have a negative stigma. Why do you think that is, and why is it not accurate? Reverse mortgages do have a stigma, and it is due to myths and misinformation that have been propagated from 20 and 30 years ago. One of the biggest myths is the bank owns your home, and that’s not true. The reverse mortgage is a loan against your house, just like the loan you have today. You do have to pay your property taxes and your insurance, which is true whether you have a reverse mortgage or a traditional mortgage. The other myth people often speak of is that the bank takes the house when the borrower dies, and that is not true. The house goes to the heirs. The heirs are responsible for repaying the loan, whether that’s through a refinance if they want to keep the house, or through selling the house. Most often, it’s through selling the house because there will be multiple heirs. Generally, the heirs are the children, so the kids all want their piece of the inheritance, so the house gets sold, our loan gets paid off and the proceeds get split amongst the heirs. What kind of client would you recommend a reverse mortgage to? A reverse mortgage can be right for anyone it completely depends on someone’s goals. It can be right for the person who is struggling month-to-month and having a hard time paying for their medicine or making their mortgage payment. It might also be right for someone who is well to do, and perhaps wants to invest in their business, or buy a second home. It is also often used to manage tax consequences. People draw from their 401(k)s or their IRAs and often times end up writing a check on April 15. With a reverse mortgage they can set the limit on their 401(k) draws and once they reach that limit switch over and start drawing tax-free funds

from their reverse mortgage line of credit. Financial planners are now starting to recommend reverse mortgage lines of credit for people with retirement money invested in the stock market. They may take money out of their investments quarterly or perhaps twice a year but if the market is way down they don’t want to draw from that particular asset. The tax-free proceeds from the reverse mortgage line of credit give them the option of drawing from their equity, and perhaps repaying that line of credit, if they choose, when the markets rebound. Miller-Rowe’s mother-in-law, Ellie Rowe, is an example of a person who chose to take out a reverse mortgage while not in financial straits. She chose a reverse mortgage to protect her property from taxation. “I was going over my finances, and I thought, ‘hey, this might be a good idea,’ and I sat down and looked at everything,” Rowe recalled. “I looked at all of my assets, most of which were in real estate, and decided I was going to get a reverse mortgage and if I needed the extra income I’d have it. I wouldn’t have to sell my real estate, which could have caused a tremendous tax burden.” Miller-Rowe lives in Concord with her husband, Charlie. The couple enjoys taking their motorhome out to chase storms, visit the beach or go camping. They enjoy traveling and even took a copy of The Brentwood Press with them on a trip to Thailand. One of her favorite East County activities is cherry picking in the spring. Miller-Rowe’s office is located at 3478 Buskirk Ave., Suite 1000, in Pleasant Hill. For more information on a reverse mortgage, call 925-969-0380 or visit www.YourReverse.com.

Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True! A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

DRE: 00950759/01215943 • NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out. Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.

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Building, construction up in East County DAWNMARIE FEHR

We do have a number of new housing developments underway that are adding some quality housing options for current and future residents.

ew construction of homes are going up all over East County and selling out fast,

despite hurdles placed by COVID-19 restrictions. In Oakley, City Manager Bryan Montgomery said new, high-quality houses are being built in his city and he looks forward to seeing neighborhoods fill up. “We do have a number of new housing developments underway that are adding some quality housing options for current and future residents,” said Montgomery. Along East Cypress Road, Emerson Ranch and Delaney Park housing developments are both under construction, with 670 and 570 homes, respectively. Montgomery notes Emerson Ranch is near completion, while Delaney Ranch is about 25% complete. Other Oakley neighborhoods breaking ground this year are Shiloh by KB Homes, which will have 70 homes when finished; The Vines, by Meritage Homes, which will have approximately 60 energy-efficient units and features walking trails and a playground; The Village at Main Street will include 156 units as well as parks and walking paths; Duarte Ranch Estates, by Seeno Homes, will finish

– Oakley City Manager Photo by Tony Kukulich

Development in East Contra Costa County continues at a steady pace despite the pandemic and recent shelter-in-place orders. with 100 homes and a park; and Twin Oaks, will offer 130 affordable senior apartments in a three-story building. In Discovery Bay, Kiper Homes has finished its Mosaic and Regatta projects in The Lakes, selling out its final models despite shelter-in-place restrictions. Though other home developers are working on more projects, including Pantages and Newport Pointe, those projects are still in the planning stages and will not be available for some time. In Brentwood, the city has multiple housing projects underway, offering current and potential residents the opportunity to

downsize or get that extra bedroom. The city’s website shows 30 new projects including apartments, estate-style homes and active adult communities. Phase two of Terrene by Pulte Homes has completed their application, planning and review processes and is currently under construction. This neighborhood offers 12 single-family detached home designs starting at $585,000. The Silvergate Apartment complex will include 166 one- and two-bedroom units in 14 buildings on eight acres located southwest of the Sand Creek Road and Brentwood

Bryan Montgomery Boulevard intersection. Trilogy at the Vineyards is nearing buildout, with its final 481 lots approved for construction. For more information on Brentwood’s coming housing projects, visit https:// www.brentwoodca.gov/gov/cd/planning/ development_projects/residential_projects.asp. The City of Oakley can be reached through their website at https://www. ci.oakley.ca.us/about-oakley/contact-us/ or by calling 925-625-7000. For more information on the Town of Discovery Bay, call 925-634-1131 or visit http://www.todb.ca .gov.

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JULY 10, 2020

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Remodeling in a COVID-19 world DAWNMARIE FEHR

ast County residents are ready to move forward as the county continues to work on

reopening. Many residents have spent the past three months confined at home and quarantine has served to highlight every flaw and outdated fixture that appeared fine before March. With the county lifting restrictions, many residents are looking to update their homes, add a home workspace or make things more accessible for elderly loved ones. James Carey of Carey Bros. Remodeling is a third-generation licensed contractor. His company has over 40 years’ experience in the East Bay and this year he said, there has been a significant spike in homeowners looking to add an attached bedroom or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for an adult child or aging parent. “The reason for that is the aging population, and with the COVID thing the kids are not at school, they are living at home, so that is the straw that broke the camel’s back,” Carey explained. “So people are saying ‘we need this extra space and we need an ADU. Let’s go ahead and build that space that we have been talking about.’”

Photo by Tony Kukulich

James Carey, right, of Carey Bros. Remodeling, says the current trend in remodeling is coronavirus-inspired with customers looking to add extra bedrooms or accessory dwelling units (ADU) for adult children or aging parents. Carey added that the lack of affordable housing in California is another driver of the ADUs, and local and state government has made it easier to build one by reducing the distance a dwelling can be placed in relation to the property line, fast-tracking the permitting processes and lowering permit fees. Carey said many of his jobs include the request to make things accessible by widening doors, adding ramps, and installing grab bars and easy-to-operate doorknobs and faucet fixtures. He noted

these do not have to look institutional, but come in many attractive designs and finishes. Carey said one thing homeowners are not loving right now are sunken living spaces. In the 70’s and 80’s, said Carey, it was very vogue to step down into the family room. But now, many of his customers are asking him to bring those floor levels up – thereby removing a barrier for people who may struggle with steps. Joe Lindsey, owner of Brentwood’s White Rhino Construction, said he firmly

Delmy Steward

Delmy Steward NMLS #231410 | 925.864.7717 NMLS #231410 | 925.864.7717

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Jason Peterson NMLS #200686 | 925.818.1376 NMLS #200686 | 925.818.1376

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believes the pandemic has affected the remodeling and construction business. “A lot of people, instead of wanting an entire remodel, they want to do a reface,” Lindsey said. “Instead of spending the money to do a whole bathroom, they just want to change out the shower door, add new fixtures and paint the cupboards … I think it’s because they are uncertain about the future and the economy.” Despite uncertainties about what might lie ahead, Lindsey said his business began picking up in mid-June. Some big trends he sees are painted, two-toned cabinets; large subway tiles; and pocket doors. Lindsey recommended homeowners installing pocket doors to create space in small rooms invest in a steel framed door that won’t warp and require readjustment over time. One thing his customers are getting rid of is bathtubs. “A lot of people are getting rid of the bathtub and just doing a shower,” he said. “I recommend they keep one, for resale value, but a lot of people don’t want any.” Carey Bros. Remodeling is located at 2624 Verne Roberts Circle, Suite D107, in Antioch. For more information, call 877-734-6404 or visit www.careybros.com. For more information on White Rhino Construction, call 925-565-2830 or visit their Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/whiterhinoconst.

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JULY 10, 2020

Tips to prepare for window replacement

It’s tempting to purchase windows based on price alone, but replacement windows are often a decision that only has to be made once or twice for the life of the home. Invest in durable windows that will have staying power.

ummer is here, with fall not far behind, and for millions of people that means staying cool and warm

in the coming months. Inefficient or aging housing materials may compromise your ability to do both. Drafts from doors, poorly protected attics and basements and aging windows may force heating systems to work extra hard to maintain interior temperatures. Replacing old windows can make a home quieter by blocking out exterior noises. Consumer Reports also notes that new windows are often easier to clean and maintain than older varieties. Many homeowners are interested in replacing their windows, but may not know where to start. These guidelines can help the process along.

Get several estimates

Ask for recommendations from neighbors or other people in your area on which companies they used to install their replacement windows. When you interview the prospects, ask several questions about how they go about installing the windows. Questions can include such topics as length of project, home residency during process and removal of old debris.

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Many homeowners are interested in replacing their windows, but may not know where to start.

Research permits Most home renovation projects need to be approved by the local municipality. Go to the permit office and find out the requirements. Some window contractors will include securing permits in the cost of the project. After the project is completed, an inspector will come by and ensure the work was done according to code.

Change up the appearance

Look at the type of hardware you have

around the home and other fixtures. Choose windows that have locks or latches that can match those features for continuity of style. Think about choosing a different style or frame color of the window, or a different type of window to improve efficiency and function.

Research top window manufacturers

Consumer Reports offers unbiased xreviews xon various window brands and can help homeowners make sound decisions.

Prepare for installation Clear pathways, remove window treatments and disconnect window alarm systems. Plan for one to two days of installation, advises Andersen Windows and Doors. Keep pets and children away from work areas. Replacement windows can be a smart investment. New windows can improve the look of a home, reduce heating costs and can keep interior spaces comfortable. – Courtesy Metro Creative

www.sasvilleproperties.com In these unprecedented times, please know that You, Your Families and This Wonderful Community is in our thoughts and prayers. Please do not hesitate to contact any of our agents for your real estate questions. We will get through this, together!

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Craig Sasville (925) 550-6447

Owner CAL BRE# 01806829

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Alison Watts (925) 550-9311 CAL BRE# 01433799

Karen Muccio (925) 548-8641 CAL BRE# 01153943

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Stunning remodeled 2 story condo w/ private deeded boat slip & community pool. Updated Kitchen w/ granite counters, 10.03 Acres for sale. This blank canvas awaits stainless steel appliances, cabinetry & custom lighting. Hardyour custom home with plenty of acreage wood floors through lower level w/ an open family room & tile remaining for livestock or agriculture. fireplace. All bedrooms & Master on upper level w/ balconies. Call Sandy Strobel for details. HOA Dues include exterior building, dock & pool maintenance. (925) 766-3791 $419,000 Presented by Chris & Craig Sasville

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What to know about filing taxes this year DAWNMARIE FEHR

his year, Americans will be filing their taxes in the summer due to the extended

tax deadline of July 15. The deadline was pushed back when shelter-in-place orders caused by the coronavirus made it difficult, if not impossible, to file taxes in April. Those seeking a further extension to October 15 must also file for it by July 15. As happens every year, there are some changes in the tax laws East County residents should be aware of. One of these includes laws governing who can receive a 1099. “Mostly, this will affect contractors, landscapers, that kind of thing,” said Carmen Hester, partner and enrolled agent at Hester Taxes and Bookkeeping. “This will force people to become accountable in industries where day labor was heavy because it’s forcing people to pay their taxes. It’s forcing people and businesses to become accountable, obey the laws and

hire people who are legal to work, and prevents companies from having people on the books who don’t exist.” Some people may wonder if any COVID-19 write offs are available, but Hester said if any are created, they will not be available until 2021 for the 2020 tax year filing. One thing Hester warned is that unemployment monies received this year will be considered taxable income. “I do expect a lot of people to be surprised when they go to file their taxes from the 2020 tax year,” she said. “Traditionally we see that people who get unemployment do not necessarily have taxes taken out and do not necessarily understand the fact that it is a taxable income, and so I’m very fearful of people being surprised next year when they file their taxes and realize that extra $100 a week is taxable income they will be paying taxes on come tax time.” Hester Taxes and Bookkeeping is located at 4700 Main Street, Suite A, in Oakley. For more information, call 925-679-8256 or visit http://www. hestertaxes.com/.

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WHO’S WHO IN THE BIZ! REAL ESTATE OFFICES AND AGENTS

Heidy Hurst REALTOR® The Hurst Team (925) 584-6377 HeidyHurstFirst@gmail.com 60 Eagle Rock Way, #B, Brentwood www.hursthomes.com DRE# 01280003

Chris Sasville Owner Cal BRE #01806829 (925) 998-6227 1555 Riverlake Road Discovery Bay chris@sasvilleproperties.com www.SasvilleProperties.com Craig Sasville Broker/Owner Cal BRE #01746093 (925) 550-6447 1555 Riverlake Road Discovery Bay craig@sasvilleproperties.com www.SasvilleProperties.com

Alisa Ortiz REALTOR® DRE #01222446 (925) 323-2216 alisaortiz@gmail.com www.SasvilleProperties.com

Debbie Anthony Realtor® DRE 01171642 925.262.7702 DebbieDoesRealEstateNow @gmail. com Ronda Fast Realtor® DRE 02085045 650.430.9556 Ronda.Fast@compass.com

Cathie Marples Realtor®, Broker Associate Brentwood Office: 8340 Brentwood Blvd. Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 634-8040 Discovery Bay Office: 2453 Discovery Bay Blvd. Discovery Bay, CA 94505 (925) 634-2224

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Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True! A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

Jason Peterson Equal Housing Lender NMLS #3274 5829 Lone Tree Way, Suite D Antioch (925) 278-6677 (925) 818-1376 jpeterson@guildmortgage.net Rob O’Malley Branch Manager Senior Loan Officer NMLS ID#240904 (925)634-6600 teamomalley @summitfunding.net Brentwood,CA George Muñoz Sr. Mortgage Consultant Hablo Español (925) 437-9520 George.Munoz@Summitfunding.net www.summitfunding.net/gmunoz 141 Sand Creek Road, Bwd NMLS# 252207

Beth Miller-Rowe Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist 3478 Buskirk Ave., Suite 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (925) 969-0380 office (925) 381-8264 cell Beth@YourReverse.com www.YourReverse.com NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 DRE: 00950759/01215943

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Simple ways to improve a kitchen pantry

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One home improvement idea that serves the double benefit of creating organization and making cooking at home more efficient is to reimagine the kitchen pantry. A pantry is a room or closet where food, beverages and linens or dishes are stored. Pantries can be highly useful spaces that provide ancillary storage in kitchens. Many modern homes are equipped with pantries, but older homes may require some modification to create more useful pantries. Whether starting from scratch or modifying an existing pantry, these tips can help projects go more smoothly. ♦♦ Maximize vertical storage. Utilizing vertical areas can help increase storage capacity. Build in extra nooks by investing in under-shelf storage baskets. These baskets can instantly create designated areas for different types of ingredients. Homeowners also can look for ways to use the inside of cabinet doors or add extra shelves on walls or in eaves. ♦♦ Consider your needs. Figure out which items you would like to store in the pantry

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Whether starting from scratch or modifying an existing pantry, these tips can help projects go more smoothly.

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than in years past, and certain

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and then shop for corresponding storage systems. For example, storage solutions may feature wine bottle racks, baskets for potatoes and other produce, shelving for small appliances, and even pull out racks for baking pans or cutting boards. ♦♦ Use clear storage. Put ingredients in clear, airtight containers of similar dimensions so that you can easily find items you need. Transfer bulky items, like cereals and baking supplies, to storage containers for uniformity. ♦♦ Store bulk items elsewhere. Bulk shopping can be cost-efficient, but bulk items can quickly eat up real estate in the pantry. Designate another area for non-perishable bulk products, like paper goods or canned items, such as in a garage or utility room. ♦♦ Pull out drawers are convenient. Pullout drawers can reduce the need to seek and reach for items. These drawers conveniently roll out so items in the back can be accessed without disturbing foods in the front. Drawers can be custom built for any pantry space. ♦♦ Make it accessible. Think about who will be taking items from the pantry. Put children’s snacks on the bottom pantry shelf where they can reach them, and then organize other shelves for adults in the home. A pantry remodel can add valuable storage space and make one of the busiest rooms in the house operate more efficiently. Delta – Courtesy Metro Creative

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How to create a more energy-efficient home

If you’re adding an extension to your home, a pool to your backyard or even planning a custombuilt dream home, choose sustainable materials that promote energy conservation.

ith weather forecasts calling for a warmer than normal summer

and social distancing encouraging us to spend more time at home, we could all benefit from boosting our home’s energy efficiency to save on energy bills. Here are some big and small changes that could help: Start with a solid foundation. If you’re adding an extension to your home, a pool to our backyard or even planning a custom-built dream home, choose sustainable materials that promote energy conservation. The eco-friendly alternative features thermal mass walls that can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 60 percent a year. Work on your windows. Did you know that about 15 to 20 percent of your home’s surface is windows? This means any issues with them can have a major impact on your energy consumption. Take time to caulk any gaps or air leaks, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows. Double-paned windows boost your insulation and help ensure your cooled, air conditioned air doesn’t escape. Switch to outdoor energy sources.

JULY 10, 2020

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With summer here and more of us spending time at home due to social distancing, everyone can reaps the benefits of a more energy-efficient residence. Take advantage of the gorgeous weather to spend more time outside. Instead of cooking meals in your energy-intensive oven that also heats up your home, break out the barbecue and enjoy dinner al fresco. You can also ease up on the clothes dryer by setting up a line and some pins in the backyard and use the wind and sun for

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drying power. Install a smart weather station. Technology can help you make sure you’re consuming energy wisely. A smart thermostat is a great idea, but a smart weather station can work with it and other devices to go a step beyond, programming them around current and predicted

weather patterns. For example, it can ensure your scheduled sprinkler won’t go off in the middle of a downpour. Be mindful of your refrigerator. If you aren’t careful, a lot of energy can be used by your fridge. First, make sure the one in your kitchen (and garage) is a newer model, as older ones can cost hundreds more a year to power. Then, clear it out so the shelves and drawers aren’t overcrowded, which makes the fridge work harder to pump cool air throughout. Finally, if you let leftovers cool on the counter before putting them inside, your fridge will use less energy. Find more information at nudura.com. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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JULY 10, 2020

The global pandemic has taught us the importance of preparation — not just for illness — but also for natural disasters.

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Call Heather Ann Roach, REALTOR® CalDRE No. 02056125

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Preparing your home for the next natural disaster

e all want our homes to be safe, comforting spaces that offer refuge

and protection from the outside world. The global pandemic has taught us this, as well as the importance of preparation — not just for illness — but also for natural disasters like fires, floods, earthquakes and tornados. Making sure your house is a secure and resilient structure is critical no matter where you live, as global warming has altered the climates and weather events of many regions. Fortunately, thanks to advances in design and innovative materials, building a stronger, disaster-proof home is possible. An alternative to traditional woodframing, Nudura insulated concrete forms (IFC) are an excellent option many engineers and designers are turning to. The steelreinforced solid concrete cores range from 4

to 12 inches, providing far superior strength and safety compared to wood. Meanwhile the non-toxic, fire-retardant expanded polystyrene foam provides a fire protection rating of up to four hours. Homes built with these ICFs are proven to survive natural disasters — houses that faced Hurricane Michael in Florida and Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans are still standing. ICFs even offer wind resistance of up to 250 mph (402 kph), equivalent to an F4 tornado. Homes that use ICF construction have other added benefits, including enhanced insulation for lower energy bills, a reduced carbon footprint and improved ventilation for better indoor air quality and lower susceptibility to mold. Concrete forms also require less maintenance over time, saving you the expense and effort of continuous upkeep and providing additional peace of mind. Find more information at nudura.com. – Courtesy Metro Creative

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