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CONTENTS
Let ter from the Editor Letter from the Editor
Departments 4
Market Report It’s Summer – Home
Emily L.G. Untalan
Selling Season!
8
10
Feature Smart Home Part 2 Home WiFi + Device + App
June 2017 • Vol. 10 • No. 06
12
Real Estate Spotlight Trusts and Title Insurance
14
Profile Bharat Bhojwani
16
From the Experts
P.O. Box 24881 Barrigada, GU 96921 Tel: (671) 472-3495 | Fax: (671) 472-3498 Email: office@yellowpagesink.com
[ Publisher ] [ Business Sales Manager ] Jay-R S. Dominguez
[ Editor/Display Advertising ] Emily L.G. Untalan
Smart Home A/C
[ Traffic/Circulation ]
that Makes Sense
Shaun Cruz
[ Production Manager ] 18
How to D.I.Y. Homemade Wood Privacy Screens
20
Your World, Our Island Keep More Green in Your Wallet
22
Curb Appeal Garage Door Tips To Improve Your Curb Appeal
25
Who Ya Gonna Call?
28
Closing
Mark S. Burke
[ Graphics & Layout ] Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia
[ Website Development ] Edwin E. Valencia
[ Editorial Contributors ] Bharat Bhojwani Anthony Godwin Maria L Peggy A. Llagas Maria E. Miller Eric M. Palacios Emily L.G. Untalan Kim Anderson Young Cover Photo: Mark S. Burke CasaGuam is Published by:
Hafa Adai to All! Summer is finally here! We are halfway through the year. After last month’s non-stop celebrations: proms, graduations, communions/confirmations, village festivals, etc. it’s no wonder summer zoomed up so quickly! No complaints from our island school kids though. They’ve been looking forward to this summer since last summer ended! Every month, there is a slew of happenings on our island casa. I will continue to remind you to go out and celebrate, advocate, and support the many events each month. I can’t stress this enough. This is what keeps our island community and spirit going strong. And, to the many who are traveling this month, we wish you safe travels! Our Smart Home theme continues in this month’s FEATURE. Reps from two telecom companies share information on their products and services for a smart home. Anthony Godwin provides a check list to follow before putting your house on the market in MARKET REPORT. First Hawaiian Bank’s smart saving advice and ideas are achievable in Finance Tips. Kim Young reiterates the emphasis on trusts and title insurance in REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT. In both our PROFILE and FROM THE EXPERTS respective sections, meet Bharat Bhojwani, a REALTOR® and a business owner who knows a thing or two about a particular smart home appliance. Patio windows will give you a little privacy while outdoors in our DIY section! In YOUR WORLD, OUR ISLAND, Eric Palacios helps you keep more green in your wallet. Update the look of your garage doors in CURB APPEAL. Closing out, we will revisit GAR President, Maria Miller’s advice on renting or buying. Peggy Llagas, CEO and Government Affairs Director of GAR, tells you the meaning of REALTOR® If you have a DIY project you’d like to share with us, or an idea you’d like us to cover, call 472-3495 or email your suggestions or comments to editor@yellowpagesink.com. We congratulate all students graduating from elementary to middle school, middle school to high school, high school to college, and college to the journey you now call adulting. Here’s to a happy, successful and fulfilling life. And, Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, including my 85 year old pops who’s been doing his best to make up for lost time. Until next month, stay safe and adios! Sincerely, Emily L.G. Untalan
CasaGuam Advertising Disclaimer All Advertisers agree to hold the publisher harmless and indemnify it against any and all claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses (including attorney’s fees) made against or incurred by the publisher, officers or employees with respect to, or arising out of, the content, text, graphics or representations of any ad published herein, including but not limited to the sole negligence and/or fault of the publisher. The publisher is not liable for any claims, losses or damages of any kind, arising from the wording, text, graphics or representations of any ad published herein, or the condition of the articles sold through the publication, or performance of services advertised in this publication. All advertising and/or performance of services advertising and/or submissions become wholly the property of CasaGuam Magazine. CasaGuam Magazine is a registered trademark of PTI Pacifica Inc. Copyright © 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. We reserve the right to edit or refuse any ad and to reprint any photo for promotional use.
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Market Repor t
It’s Summer — Home Selling Season! hat do you need to do get your home ready for sale? When I meet with a property owner we discuss many factors that lead up to placing a property on the market. You will often hear that price and time on market will determine how fast a property sell. It is true that a property that has been properly prepared for the market, and priced right, will pique the interest of multiple buyers, will sell faster and probably a higher selling price! Poorly prepared properties may generate little to no interest, may never sell or only generate a buyer at a ‘rock bottom’ price. Therefore, the third very important component of the selling equation is… Condition! Before doing anything, talk to your REALTOR® about market conditions… find out what has sold, what buyer expectations are in the current market, what properties will be competing with yours; let your REALTOR® know your expectations. Determine whether you are looking for a quick AS IS sale or you are ready to do what’s necessary to achieve a higher market price. Take a walk around your property with your REALTOR® . Ask for observations—what needs to be done to get the house with as little investment as possible vs. what needs to be done to get a better price. Take notes, classify what items need to be repaired vs. what items need to be replaced or updated. The market will dictate your decisions. For example, if there are 15 homes on the market, in similar condition as your property, and they have been on the market for awhile then you need to take action to make sure your property outshines the rest. Nearly all buyers these days start their searches online. Buyers compare properties and eliminate those that don’t attract their attention. You don’t want your property to be eliminated. It’s also important to take a look at properties that have sold recently. This will give you a good idea of buyer expectations.
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Generally, you might want to consider the following checklist as you consider preparing your house for the market. 1) Repair any items identified in your walk through. Consider replacing items that are difficult to repair or that are ‘dated’. 2) Entry Door: The entry door continues to top the charts as the number one ‘upgrade’ a seller can make when selling a property. After all, first impressions count. 4 CasaGuam
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3) Paint Inside and Out (including the roof ). A fresh coat of paint does wonders. Talk to your REALTOR® about color trends. Neutral tones still seem to work best. 4) Flooring: There are numerous options for flooring. If flooring replacements are needed—and depending on selling price point—consider all the new laminates and, yes, carpet for the bedrooms! 5) Kitchen and Bath updates and upgrades are always a big plus when selling. These will depend on what you start with. Sometimes, for example, the cabinet ‘boxes’ and drawers are good and all that’s needed are new doors, drawers and hardware. 6) Electrical upgrades: Consider changing out old light fixtures to the newer ‘nickel’ color fixtures. Replace outlet and wall plate covers for a clean look after painting. Replace any non functioning outlets and wall switches. Consider energy saving LED bulbs and fixtures. Make sure your REALTOR® mentions this in the remarks about the property. Buyers love energy saving features. 7) Air Conditioning: Have unit(s) serviced; replace any failed units. Have ducts cleaned. Yes, this service is available on Guam. 8) Clean, clean, clean! Inside and out. 9) Get the yard in order too. Less is better. Remove dead trees and shrubs. Trim remaining trees and shrubs for a ‘clean’ look. You want the buyer to stop and stay! Work closely with your REALTOR® to identify items in your home to be repaired/upgraded that will bring you the best return on your investment. Document everything that you do. This will help you and your REALTOR® put together a good story about your house when it’s ready for the market. Ask your REALTOR® about sources for materials and contractors. We have so many choices on Guam these days. Shop them all for the best prices and value! I’ve probably said this a thousand times over the years… no matter the market…. The properties best prepared for the market will attract the most buyers. More buyers will generate more offers. More offers… typically a higher selling price. For more information on this topic, contact me at Today’s Realty. Anthony@guamhome.com or 688-8198. Whatsapp, Messenger, Text all good too.
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Market Repor t
Market Snapshot January 1, 2017 to May 22, 2017 By Anthony Godwin
Condominium/Townhomes For Sale Average Sold Price: $216,687 Average Days on Market: 120 Number of units Sold: 67 Number of units currently for sale: 233
Condominium/Townhomes/Apartments for Rent Average Rented Price: $1,699.00 Average Days on Market: 58 Number of units Rented: 428 Number of units currently for rent: 207
Single Family Home Sales Average Sold Price: $270,077 Average Days on Market: 161 Number of homes Sold: 130 Number of homes currently for sale: 179
Single Family Rentals Average Rented Price: $2,387.00 Average Days on Market: 58 Number of homes Rented: 266 Number of homes currently for rent: 119
Disclaimer: All data from the Guam Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as reported by REALTORS to the service. Properties transactions not reported to the service are not included in these statistics. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Not responsible for errors or omissions.
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Finance Tips
Saving Money the Smart and Practical Way *Paid Advertorial
We’ve all heard the saying, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” It’s basic common-sense, but what are some smart and practical ways to really save money, effectively and consistently? The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about saving money the smart way is to open up a savings account at your preferred bank. “Look for a bank that gives back, provides perks that are beneficial to your needs, both in short- and long-term savings goals,” says Jiamei Zahnen, Personal Banking Officer at First Hawaiian Bank’s Tamuning Branch “Whether you’re saving money for a home, a dream vacation or the must-have Shiatsu massage chair recliner, saving can be a chore,” Zahnen adds. Feed your savings account regularly. If your company offers a service to process automatic bank deductions from your payroll check, request for your Human Resources Dept. to deposit a certain amount, or percentage, into your savings account every payday. What you don’t see, you can’t touch. Remember what your goal is. Here’s one that you probably didn’t realize IS doable and can only be controlled by you. Simply put, take good care of yourself. Choose healthy eating, exercise on the daily, practice the basic hygiene, handwashing skills. This simple tip will help prevent you from getting sick
By and accumulating medical bills. On a side note, if you have an existing condition which requires you to take medication, you can still save money. Instead of doing month to month prescriptions or refills, ask your doctor to give you a three months supply. This option is usually cheaper. In line with taking care of yourself, take advantage of free fitness classes from any gym or fitness center on island. Free classes are usually tied in with your medical insurance coverage. Find out what local gym and fitness center your insurance carrier partners with. If you’re planning to catch the latest blockbuster movie with the family, here’s a couple of tips that can help you save for what can sometimes tug hard on your pocket. Plan to watch a matinee, or the very first showing, and eat at home before heading to the theatre! That’s a few bucks saved! If you and your family are the outdoorsy type, there are many free and inexpensive events held almost every weekend. Plan your family time around those events like the village festivals, movies in the park, etc. There is always something to do that will not keep you from sticking to your savings goal. For information on opening up a savings account, please visit any one of our three branches in Maite, Dededo, and Tamuning.
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Feature
Smart Home - Part 2 Home WiFi + Device + App = An Effective Smart Home By Emily L.G. Untalan
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nd, we’re back with a continuation of our Smart Home theme. Last month, we focused on the importance and installation of a smart home security system and briefly noted that a reliable home wifi network and app are needed for it to function at full capacity.
Most smart home components rely heavily on a home wifi network and a good working app. A strong network plus the (most trusted and effective) app will make your smart home effective and will truly ease your anxiety, especially when it comes to your home and family. In an effort to provide you information to create your own smart home, we reached out to a few telecom companies to give us their views on a home wifi network, and smart devices. Two responded to our call. An advanced quad-play offer designed to revolutionize television, mobile, online and home television experience was recently introduced by Docomo Pacific. “Now with One, the fastest online speeds on Guam just got faster. For the first time, Ken Quintanilla Docomo Pacific introduces triple-digit online speeds increasing our fastest speed from 75 Mbps to 100 Mbps. Along with faster speeds, Docomo Pacific has invested in the best technology to ensure we provide our customers with the best and most reliable internet connection to your homes,” says Ken Quintanilla, Public Relations Coordinator of Docomo Pacific. “Whether it’s monitoring security and surveillance, or ensuring your kitchen appliances are operating properly, Docomo Pacific knows quality and speed with your WiFi services is critical to handle your smart products in your home. With internet speeds up to 100 Mbps, you can connect to your devices and smart home appliances faster 8 CasaGuam
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so they can communicate with each other and with you. Our internet services can work together with a variety of smart products including your smart door locks, baby monitors, smart home assistant, smart light bulbs, security and surveillance and smart TVs. The faster internet speeds included in each of our One plans are simple and worry-free, made to meet the needs of an individual or family,” Quintanilla expresses.
Home Wifi Diagram c/o www.smarthome.com
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Feature A smart home is nothing without a smart phone, or device. “The smart home environment is predicated on a strong and reliable wireless network both within the home and away from the home as well as a reliable handheld device,” says Logan Reyes, Marketing Services Manager of IT&E. “With IT&E’s expanded 4G/LTE network and variety 4G/LTE equipped smart phones, customers can control their smart home appliances with ease wherever they are, with the comfort of knowing that they have a strong and reliable network and device to do so,” Reyes assures. “If readers are looking for a tip on how to seamlessly control their smart home, then I suggest an app called IFTTT. This stands for if this, then that. Basically, the app can help a person with smart home appliances automate actions at home or when they leave home. This app is available both for Apple iOS and Android phones on the Apple App Store, or on Google Play,” advises Reyes.
http://buildyoursmarthome.co/tutorials/smart-home-guide-work-smart-home-
Converting a regular home to a smart home will give homeowners the advantage, control and, most of all, convenience when going about their daily, normal operations. But there is always one question of uncertainty in the back of their minds. How secured is a smart home? Hackers. Invasion of privacy. Security breach. Can all these negatives be prevented? “Creating a secure connection to the internet continues to evolve every day. We understand how important it is to adapt and provide access to security features and functions that will protect our customers. Installing the latest security updates and creating strong passwords are only the beginning, there are several third-party malware and virus
protection applications that are available to provide peace of mind and a secure connection,” Quintanilla concludes. Now with all the information collected in creating your smart home, which smart home component would you Logan Reyes like to install first? There is a growing number of smart home features and products available today. Below is a list of what I found online: Laundry-folding robot Robot vacuum Smart doorbell Smart home shades Smart leak detectors Smart locks Smart plugs & switches Smart remote Smart security lighting Smart smoke detector Smart speaker Smart thermostats White light and color-changing smart bulbs Remember to do your own research before creating your smart home and consider the information and advice provided by Logan and Ken.
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On The Cover
Fulfilling Guam’s Air-Conditioning Needs eeSonii’s is a family-owned local business whose goal is to fulfill the air-conditioning needs of the people of Guam. We do so by providing some of the best products, prices, and services on the island of Guam. We started with only one brand of air-conditioners: Galanz air-conditioners. Soon, we added Eva and Samui brands to our inventory, followed by Comfee by Midea, MDV, and now HISENSE brand. We carry all ranges of wall mounted single split type air-conditioners, split ducted central air-conditioners, and package air-conditioners. We will also have window air-conditioners and PTAC units in stock soon.
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Real Estate Spotlight
Trusts and Title Insurance By Kim Anderson Young
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So you have finally taken the big step and formed a trust in order to avoid your heirs having to probate your estate and pay excess inheritance taxes when you move on to greener pastures! Good for you! The next important step is to transfer all of your assets into your trust. This is calling “funding” the trust and without taking this step, all your hard work and good intentions may be wasted. Your trust attorney and/or tax accountant may recommend that you contact Security Title to conduct a title search of any property that you own; if you own multiple properties, we can even perform an asset search to make sure no property is left out! The title report will reveal the current exact ownership and legal descriptions of your property, and will provide accuracy for the transfer from the current ownership into the ownership of your trust. If you own property in your name (or as community property), transferring title to your trust is an easy step involving just a simple quitclaim deed or deed of gift. Your trust attorney and accountant will walk you through this step, providing the necessary documentation. To ensure that your title insurance remains in full force and effect, Security Title can assist in the process. We will take care of recording the deeds and will provide an inexpensive endorsement to your title insurance policy that will extend the coverage from your individual names to your trust.
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Remember just these four steps: 1. Counsel will draw your Trust. 2. Security Title will provide current title reports for property legal descriptions and vesting. 3. Counsel will deed properties into your trust. Called “funding the trust.” 4. Security Title will record the funding deeds and provide endorsements to your title insurance coverage. Trusts are becoming a very common estate-planning tool, and not just for the very wealthy. Not only do they minimize inheritance taxes and avoid probate, they can be used to care for the health, education and welfare of minor children, or incapacitated family members when you are no longer there to care for them. Remember, though, a trust is not a stagnant entity….the care and feeding of it is your responsibility! It needs to be continuously updated and properly managed to ensure it is the tool it is designed to be. About the Author Kim Anderson Young, president of Security Title, has over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry. Contact her at kim@securitytitle.net or 647-8100.
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Profile
Bhojwani Balances Real Estate and His Family Business with Ease
By Emily L.G. Untalan
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Bharat Bhojwani REALTOR® CENTURY 21 COMMONWEALTH REALTY
Guam and the pacific region, traveling to and exploring a lot of new places, and establishing myself as a well-known and respected REALTOR® on Guam!” You’ve definitely earned my respect, Bharat, and we only met a month ago! There’s no doubt in my mind that you will earn the respect of others instantly.
I believe that the Casa Guam Magazine is a great resource for the real estate community on Guam because it is a great way to advertise and explore current listings.
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“
I first met Bharat Bhojwani in a meeting at his family business. What a young, polite, and genuine soul. I was amazed to learn that not only does he run the family business but he is also a Real Estate Agent with Century 21 Commonwealth Realty. Bhojwani got into the Real Estate business because he always dreamt of investing and owning several properties around the globe. “I wanted to learn everything I could about the profession, so that when it is my time to invest, I would be experienced in this field,” Bhojwani expressed. He has been in the Real Estate business for a little over two years and plans to be in the business for the rest of his life. “Before getting in the business, I was a sales representative for my family’s airconditioning business, DeeSonii’s, in Harmon Industrial. Now, I am managing the family business while doing real estate on the side.” I asked myself, how does he do it? Obviously, if you relish doing something you love, it makes the balancing act manageable. “I enjoy the real estate business because it has flexible hours; I can focus both on my family business and the real estate business at the same time. I also enjoy meeting clients at restaurants or shopping malls and seeing the smiles on their faces because of the properties I helped them purchase or lease.” Bhowani sees the real estate business as a hobby rather than his livelihood and recommends “Any new agents or anyone interested in getting into the field of Real Estate to set up a meeting with an experienced realtor(s). REALTORs® are very friendly and are happy to share their experiences with newcomers,” Bhojwani attests. Speaking of real estate, “I believe that the CasaGuam Magazine is a great resource for the real estate community on Guam because it is a great way to advertise and explore current listings,” he affirms. Aside from real estate, Bhojwani loves watching movies, reading self-improvement and motivational growing my family’s air-conditioning business to be the best on
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From the Experts
A Smart Home Air Conditioner that Makes Sense for Your Home and Office By Bharat Bhojwani
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In keeping in line with our smart home theme, Mr. Bharat Bhojwani offers his expertise on a particular smart home appliance (brand) that his family business carries. Hafa Adai, We are DeeSonii’s. DeeSonii’s is a family-owned local business whose goal is to fulfill the air-conditioning needs of the people of Guam. We do so by providing some of the best products, prices, and services on the island of Guam. We started with only one brand of air-conditioners, Galanz air-conditioners. Soon, we added Eva and Samui brands to our inventory, followed by Comfee by Midea, MDV, and now HISENSE brand. We carry all ranges of wall mounted single split type air-conditioners, split ducted central air-conditioners, and package air-conditioners. We will also have window air-conditioners and PTAC units in stock soon. Our most premium brand currently is HISENSE Air-Conditioners. HISENSE is a major brand around the globe and we are proud to be the exclusive distributors of Hisense air-conditioners on Guam. Hisense was the first company to bring split AC Production Line in China in 1988 and first company to launch Inverter air-conditioners in China in 1997. Therefore, it is known as the Inverter Expert. They are the Pioneers of their industry and always ahead in Research and Development compared to their competitors. Hisense is a major official sponsor in several sporting events like FIFA 2018, the Australian Open, NASCAR racing, Red Bull racing, and Joe Gibbs Racing. Hisense acquired rights to SHARP’s TV Business in North America and they work together with HITACHI to make air-conditioners for the HITACHI brand.
Hisense air-conditioners are great for Guam. 1. They are Full DC Inverter air-conditioners and we have them in both mid to high SEERS. Putting a high SEER DC Inverter air-conditioner in your home or office should reduce your power bill. 2. They have Anti-Corrosive Golden Fins to protect the airconditioners from corroding fast. 3. They are Ultra Quiet Air-Conditioners, so you can watch your favorite TV shows without unnecessary background noise. 4. Additional WIFI kits are available for Hisense air-conditioners so you can control your air-conditioners from your smart phones and tablets. 16 CasaGuam
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Mostly all the major global brands for air-conditioners are available on Guam now, and the consumers have myriad of choices to choose from. When looking for an air-conditioner, we highly encourage customers to consider Hisense air-conditioners for lowest prices, exceptionally good quality, great warranties, and professional services. In addition, this is a perfect time to buy as all Hisense air-conditioners are qualified for GPA Rebate Program. We are located in Harmon Industrial Park and have friendly staff to assist all customers. Call us or visit us today for your air-conditioning needs.
About the Author: Bharat Bhojwani is the Executive Vice President at DeeSonii's, a family-owned business, established in 2009. You can contact Bhojwani at (671) 647-3736.
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H o w To D . I . Y.
Homemade Wood Privacy Screens By Maria L, Hometalker – Converse, TX
Lately, our neighborhood has been under construction. Lots of new homes are getting built. I don't know if it is the fact that we got used to have just empty lots around us, but as soon as those homes started to go up, we felt the need to add a little "privacy" to our back porch. Time: 1 Week • Cost: $120.00 • Difficulty: Challenging
One day while browsing on Pinterest I came across this beautiful porch with wooden screens. We both loved this look, so my husband got to work and recreated the same kind of screens. When it was all said and done, we painted them the same color as the siding of our home so when you see them from the street, they don't look off.
We installed them using thin but heavy duty chain and large eye hooks. So happy with this project. Cite Source: Maria L was born and raised in Spain. She is a "retired" Army wife and a proud Navy mom. She is an early childhood educator who loves to decorate and create DIY projects. 18 CasaGuam
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Your World, Our Island
Keep More Green in Your Wallet
By Eric M. Palacios
By the time this issue hits the newsstands, summer will be in full swing. For many people, this will mean different things. Some will go on that long planned vacation. Others will visit off-island family or children who are attending college abroad. Yet, for others, it will provide that long awaited opportunity to make improvements in and around the home front. This last group is whom I will focus on in this article. Hopefully, some of the information that follows will lead you to integrate them into your spruce-up plans.
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1. Have your air-conditioners serviced: The time is ripe for this critical action. With the hectic schedules that many of us carry, we often forget, or put off, the cleaning of our units. This continued neglect will result in higher power bills due to inefficiency, as well as the decreased lifespan of the units. Remember: it is far cheaper to pay for maintenance and continue enjoying rate savings, than to continually buy new units. 2. Pressure wash your rooftops: This is another action that is often pushed aside despite its inherent negative consequences. Such impacts include increased power bills and an uncomfortable home — especially with the heat wave we have been experiencing. You do not own a pressure washer? Not to worry! There are a number of companies, big and small, that can perform this service for a decent price. Many of them advertise on social media sites, so finding one that will work around your schedule and budget should be relatively easy.
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3. Plant trees and other greens around your home: Sure, depending on what you plant, you might not realize the benefits for some months or even years. But, hey, why not do it now and get there eventually. There are also many things that you can plant that will reap dividends in the short term, such as vegetables and garden flowers. Any or a combination of these arborous activities will add value to your property, too, so think of the work as an investment. In addition to the information above, I highly recommend that you take advantage of summertime deals that come up. Local hardware and do-it-yourself stores will slash the prices of many different commodities over the next couple of months. What is the benefit of this, you ask? You may not need the items now, but you likely will in the next few months. Take advantage of the savings by purchasing them now, store them properly, and then use or install them when the time comes. Why pay more down the road for an item that is on sale now, and that you will eventually need? I often take advantage of sale items as they come up, and keep them for eventual near-future use. Our family has saved money through this practice. And not only have we saved money, but we have also avoided the irritation that comes with an item not being in stock when we need it. Is your dilemma not having a storage room or shed to safely store essentials for use later? Maybe building one can be the first project you take on this summer. About the Author: Eric M. Palacios is the former administrator for the Guam Environmental Protection Agency. He currently serves as Gov. Eddie Calvo’s special assistant for education and the environment.
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Curb Appeal
Garage Door Tips To Improve Your Curb Appeal
By Garage Living Blog
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Since the 1980s, home builders have been looking for various ways to offer large homes at affordable prices. Rising land costs and smaller lots have made this challenging. One solution has been to place the garage footprint at the front of the house.
Snout houses Single and double car garages form the front of these homes which are sometimes described as a snout house. Wikipedia defines a snout house as “a house with a protruding garage that takes up most of the street frontage.” Instead of first laying eyes on a welcoming front door, a porch or windows, the curb view resembles a bulky snout or nose. How do you achieve great curb appeal when garage doors are the dominating factor of your home? Don’t fight it. Work with it and consider these five tips.
Choose from various materials such as steel, wood, fibreglass or aluminium glass doors. Vary the size, shape, window and hardware options. What’s your style? Do you prefer modern with lots of glass panels or a traditional wood-grain look? Make a statement that says, “welcome to my home”.
Use colour
Upgrade your garage doors Install garage doors with lots of visual appeal. Get the highest quality doors that you can afford for an instant upgrade. Many of these homes lack a defining style so let your garage door do the work. Whether you choose traditional or modern garage doors, or one of many styles in between, it will set the tone for your home and become the jumping off point for further design. To get away from the flat, boxy look of your garage door, create visual interest with the following: • windowpanes • horizontal relief patterns • vertical lines • barn door style cross beams 22 CasaGuam
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There are many schools of thought on the best garage door colours. If you can see the front door from the street view then make sure it’s the focal point. Use colour to make it stand out. You want to draw the eye to the entrance. You don’t have to match the garage door colour to the front door. Most designers are insistent that you don’t match them. You want to neutralize the garage doors. Whether the house is finished in brick, wood or any other kind of siding, choose the right tone of paint to make the garage doors disappear to highlight the front door. If the front of your house is just one big garage, you can make it a design feature with colour. Most garage doors are available in steel, fibreglass and natural wood that can be stained or painted. Many of the steel and fibreglass doors come in a variety of colours. Any colour added should complement the style of the garage door, the surrounding walls and roof material. Look at the big picture beyond the doors to help you choose the colour. For instance, if your garage doors are surrounded in grey/beige stone try to match the colour to blend it the doors out or add
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Curb Appeal subtle contrast with a the lightest tone of that same colour on the paint sample board. If you want the colour to make your doors a focal point go with a high contrasting paint colour. Today we see more doors in dark greys, browns and blacks – a sophisticated, contemporary touch. Bright, primary colours can be too distracting on a large surface. Try to avoid bold colours that will make your neighbours cringe. Be an individual but also be considerate.
Accessorize A carriage house garage door has built-in features that make it stand out. The period-looking details like iron arrow or fleurde-lis patterned hinges and multi pane windows really make a statement. Add decorative accessories like potted plants to the sides of the garage entrance. Greenery brings everything to a more humane level. Topiary and tall plants, trees or shrubs draw the eye up and break up the large expanse of wall. Change out the plants seasonally and keep it fresh looking. Porticos and trellises and are not just for backyards. Use decorative trim, pillars and built-out rooflines to add more detail to the flat surface. Adding ivy and climbing plants can also bring shade and softens the lines of the structure. Decorative stonework on the walls around the doors add visual interest. Don’t forget about your driveway, pavers, stamped concrete and stone driveway surface which can also make your garage doors pop.
Light it up Exterior lighting is a great way to add more curb appeal to your garage wall. Overhead and side lights are not only functional, they are a safety feature. Look for lighting that complements the colour tone and style of your home to bring the entire look together. Some people will invest in ground lights in the driveway pointing straight up. Lighting the sky isn’t really functional but can look very striking, especially for contemporary treatments. Up lighting is most effective when pointed into trees, leafy shrubs and plants creating interesting shadow and light patterns, adding an artistic touch to hard surfaces. One light can be enough but a pattern of multiple wall sconces leading to the front door can be very dramatic and effective.
Bring it to the front door Once you incorporate some of these curb appeal tips into your garage door, carry them through to your home’s entry. Duplicate your style, colour and lighting choices at the front door of your home. A consistent look makes your home’s exterior more balanced and welcoming. If the front of your home is a garage, it doesn’t have to look pedestrian. You have plenty of choices to make it look beautiful and functional.
Where do I start? Have a look at the different types of garage doors that are available from Garage Living. Get inspired by looking at the different examples of garage doors. Determine which style suits you and start planning. Citing Source: Since 2005, Garage Living has completed over 5,000 projects throughout North America. Their knowledge and experience will ensure that each garage makeover is done quickly, efficiently, perfectly. http://www.garageliving.com/blog/garage-door-tips-to-improve-your-curb-appeal/
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W h o Ya G o n n a C a l l ?
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Classifieds Commercial Rentals Agat Agat warehouse. Excellent condition with large fenced lot. Two warehouses on site. Near Navy Base. $7,000/mo. Call Yumiko at 688-7791.
Yigo
Dededo
Harmon
Upgraded 4BD/2BA home with nice yard space. Fully fenced. Near AAFB, golf course, Ritidian Beach and more. 2,450/mo. Call Julie at 687-6900.
4BD/2BA home in very good condition. 1,200 sqft. $250K. Call James at 482-0498.
Central location. Endless possibilities. $161,150-$1,667,250. Call Greg at 777-6441.
Mangilao
Mangilao
1,967 sqmtrs with mountain view. $320K. Call Coleen at 727-6902.
Developer alert! 2,765+/- sqmtrs. R-2 zoned. Right across Japanese school. $200K. Call Fiona at 988-9982.
Yigo
Tamuning Commercial space fronting Marine Corps Drive. Over 4,000 +/- sqft. Power and water included. Lots of parking. $2,649.60/mo. Call Sandy at 687-6006.
4BD/2BA in Gayinero Road. Fully fenced with open back patio surrounded by beautiful greenery. Minutes away from Andersen Airforce Base. $2,450/mo. Call Lolita at 688-6743.
Santa Rita
Mongmong-Toto-Maite
Tamuning
Yona
3BD/2BA. 1,516+/- sqmtrs. Larg extension in the back. Outside kitchen great for families and gatherings. $215K. Call Sandy at 687-6006.
2 lots. 4,505+/- sqmtrs each. Zoning verified as split R-1/A. Central location. $249K each. Call Fiona at 988-9982.
EVA Building in central location. Excellent condition. 1,451 sqft. $2,321/mo. Call Hana at 777-3660.
4BD/2BA. 2,111 sqft. Good Condition. $2,450/mo. Call Renee at 777-7071.
Santa Rita
Ordot-Chalan Pago
Residential Sales
3BD/2BA $200K. Call Century 21 Commonwealth Realty at 649-2121.
Agat
Tamuning
Centrally located across Ageuda Johnston Middle School. A quiet and lovely location ready to build on. $70K. Call Lolita at 688-6743.
4BD/2BA. 1,440 sqft with a huge mango tree in the backyard. Sold as is. $200K. Call Lolita at 688-6743.
4BD/2.5BA priced reduced in Perezville. $675K. Call Madelene at 486-7470.
Santa Rita
Yona
1,061 sqmtrs in Buena Vista Estates. $85K. Call Coleen at 727-6902.
4BD/4BA. Excellent condition. 3,758 sqft. $638K. Call James at 482-0498.
Sinajana
4BD/2.5BA $220K. Call Century 21 Commonwealth Realty at 649-2121.
Dededo
Yigo
4BD/2BA w/ extension converted into 1BD/1BA w/ kitchen. Chain linked fenced around perimeter. Located in Fern Terrace. $210K. Call Lolita at 688-6743.
4BD/4BA $370K. Call Century 21 Commonwealth Realty at 649-2121.
Dededo
Barrigada Heights
2BD/1BA. $2,800/mo. Call Madelene at 486-7470.
3BD/2BA. Affordable and ready to move in. $227,500. Call Julie at 687-6900.
Tamuning
Dededo
Developer and investor alert! 4,923+/- sqmtrs fronting N. Sabana Dr. $984,600. Call Suzanne at 482-6426.
Tamuning House behind GPO. 4BD/2BA, Excellent Condition! $2,450/mo. Call 686-8088.
6BD/3BA $2300K. Call Century 21 Commonwealth Realty at 649-2121.
Residential Rentals Dededo 3BD/2.5BA. 1,700 sqft. Very Good Condition. $2,450/mo. Call Rowena at 777-4317.
Agat Santa Rita 4BD/3BA. 3,300 sqft. $2,500/mo. Call Greg at 777-6441.
Mangilao Beautiful 4BD/2BA home in quiet Latte Heights neighborhood. Pet friendly owner. Great living spaces both inside and out. $2,200/mo. Call Lolita at 688-6743.
Mongmong-Toto-Maite
Land for Sale
Two ocean view lots. Bonus 3,500+/- sqft home on one of them. R-1 zoned. Fully fenced. $600K. Call Janet at 687-1841.
Tamuning 1,330 sqmtrs. $260K. Call Century 21 Commonwealth Realty at 649-2121.
Yigo
Dededo
Dededo
Tamuning 3BD/2BA Villa Carmen home. $2,800/mo. Call Coleen at 727-6902.
Executive 4BD/3BA home. 2,383+/- sqft of space. Fenced and gated. 1,088 sqmtr lot. $525K. Call Dennis at 727-3815.
3 adjoining lots. Can be sold together or separately. Perfect for dream home or investment. $175,942. Call Vicki at 687-3558.
1,109 sqmtrs. Build your dream home. $57K. Call Madelene at 486-7470.
Yona
Dededo
1/4 acre lot tucked in a quiet neighborhood in Chalan Teleforo. Ready to build with power/water access. $40K. Call Lolita at 688-6743.
47,565 sqmtrs. Route 3 frontage. $4.5M. Call Vic at 483-7518.
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Closing
Message from the President Maria E. Miller 2017 President Guam Association of REALTORS®
RENT OR BUY?? Purchasing a home is one of the largest investments a person can make in their lifetime. Homeownership offers value, stability, tax benefits, helps towards building a future nest egg, and so much more. Owning a home is the American Dream. Even with all the benefits of homeownership many people continue to rent because they do not realize they can afford to invest in their own home. As rent prices continue to rise in Guam, you do not want to get priced out of the market. Invest the time in yourself to see if you can buy a home.
BUT - I can’t afford the down payment!” It surprises me how many people don’t even want to try because they honestly don’t believe they can afford a down payment! Did you know you may have other options? The USDA offers a “0” down loan if you qualify – (you cannot make too much money). The VA offers “0” down loan for Veterans who are in service or have been honorably discharged – and it is not a ONE-TIME opportunity. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac offer loans with as little as 3% down or 5%, 10% down with mortgage insurance and so forth. In many cases, your monthly mortgage payment can be close to what you are paying in rent, if not less – especially when you can tax deduct your interest payment and property taxes! AND remember, you do not have to start out purchasing your dream home either. Start with what is affordable, build equity, and work your way up to your dream home. Better yet, turn your affordable purchase into your dream home by doing the work yourself a little bit at a time – something you cannot do on a rental. Even if you are not ready to buy today, start preparing and saving today. Estimate what your monthly payment would be and save the difference – this will help you save for the down payment too! Start monitoring your credit. Transfer your credit card balances to 0% transfer options – pay them off. Pick up a part time job. Sell some stuff. There are so many ways - if you really want it, you will work hard for it. Your favorite REALTOR® can walk you through your options. Make 2017 your year of homeownership!
GUAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® The Voice for Real Estate on Guam Suite 236A Julale Center 424 West O'Brien Drive, Hagatna, Guam 96910 Office: (671) 477-4271 • Fax: (671) 477-4275 28 CasaGuam
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Message from the Chief Executive Officer and Government Affairs Director Peggy Araullo Llagas Guam Association of REALTORS®
The meaning of REALTOR® and its Marks The term REALTOR® has one, and only one, meaning: REALTOR® is a federally registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is member of the NATIONAL and GUAM ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. The media and the public at times need to be reminded that the term REALTOR® is not synonymous with “real estate broker,” “broker,” or “real estate agent.” The registered status of the MARKS using initial capital letters distinguishes the terms REALTOR® and REALTORS® from words of ordinary use. Most newspapers follow either the Associated Press (AP) Style Book or the United Press International (UPI) Style Book in preparing news items for publications. These style books do not call for use of full capitals or a federal registration symbol “®” for registered marks. Therefore, it is permissible to follow the AP or UPI guidelines when using a MARK in a news release. News releases should include the definition of the term REALTOR® at the bottom of each page. Likewise, the term REALTOR® should never be used as a subject heading in any directories, such as the “Yellow Pages” phone directory, since such usage is tantamount to suggesting that the term REALTOR® identifies a vocation or line of service rather than membership in NAR and GAR. Any use of the MARKS in a directory should include the definition of the term REALTOR®. Trademarks are unique terms, symbols, or combinations of terms and symbols that communicate a specific message to the public. If a trademark owner does not properly protect its mark, it may be lost forever. Many of the words we use in our everyday speech were once valuable trademarks that could have been maintained as such if they had been promoted and protected properly. The words “escalator” and “aspirin” were once valuable trademarks, but for lack of vigilance, care, and public promotion, they lost their distinctive protectable qualities and are now words of ordinary use. There is only one way to properly pronounce the term REALTOR®: REAL- tor (rē´al-tôr´). To remain valuable and effective in performing their identifying function, the MARKS must be used consistently and correctly.
- National Association of REALTORS® Ask if your agent is a REALTOR®. A member of the Guam Association of REALTORS® who shall remain your leading advocate in protecting your best interest. Visit our website at www.guamrealtors.com.
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