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CONTENTS
Let ter from the Editor Letter from the Editor
Departments 4
Market Report Investing in Real Estate
8
Feature
10
Getting Connected to Water
12
Real Estate Spotlight Preliminary Title Report vs. Title Insurance Policy
14
Profile Luana Simmons Simmons Eases Clients Into Process
July 2016 • Vol. 9 • No. 07 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 ] Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
[ Display Advertising ] 16
From the Experts Guam Water is Safe to Drink
18
How to D.I.Y. Making Your Own Water Reservoir
John Mendiola Doris Pangelinan Emily Untalan
[ Traffic/Circulation ] Carol Aperocho Shaun Cruz
[ Production Manager ] Mark S. Burke
[ Graphics & Layout ] 22
Curb Appeal 6 Important Ways a Hot Tub at Home Will Guarantee Better Health
25
Who Ya Gonna Call?
27
Classifieds
28
Closing
Mark S. Burke Edwin E. Valencia
[ Website Development ] Edwin E. Valencia
[ Editorial Contributors ] Heidi Ballendorf Joylyn Munoz Arlene Taitague Taitingfong Kim Anderson Young
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
Hafa adai! Our July issue deals with water related topics. Our theme is “Exploring Still Waters”. We have topics that range from how to apply for water service for your property to the benefits of having a hot tub. I’m sure you will enjoy our articles this month…and hopefully, Guam will start getting some rainfall soon, if we haven’t by the time you read this issue. Our FEATURE article is “Getting Connected to Water”. The article is courtesy of Guam WaterWorks Authority and Heidi Ballendorf, Communications & Community Relations Director. It’s a good article that takes you step-bystep in the application process. Luana Simmons is our PROFILE this month. She is a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Diamond Realty. She is new to the industry, but has much experience in sales and marketing. Read why she is passionate about her current career choice. This month, Joylyn Muñoz gives us the latest statistics in MARKET REPORT. She also explains the three basic types of real estate investments one can make! Do you know what a PTR or a TP is? Kim Anderson Young explains the difference in REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT. Knowing the difference will help you in your first (or next) property transaction. GAR President, Deanna Palmer reports that summer is the season where rental activity is strongest, and Peggy Illagas, CEO and Government Affairs Director of GAR, explains how the IRS requires reporting of cooperative commissions. We also celebrate two holidays this month, July 4th Independence Day and July 21st Liberation Day. Please enjoy the festivities safely. See you next issue!
Cover Photo: Mark S. Burke CasaGuam is Published by:
Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
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 All information in Market Research is provided by Joylyn Munoz, Principal Broker, Absolute Realty
Tel: (671) 488-5069 joylyn.munoz@absoluterealtyguam.com Joylyn Munoz
Thinking of selling? Get a FREE market analysis for current value of your home. Thinking of buying? Call us, it’s FREE, we have access to all property listings.
Investing in Real Estate Buying real estate is about more than just finding a place to call home. Investing in real estate has become more popular over the last fifty years and has become a common investment vehicle. Although the real estate market has plenty of opportunities for making big gains, buying and owning real estate could be much more complicated than investing in stocks and bonds. Today I will provide you with three basic types of real estate investments to think about.
A Basic Rental Property This is an investment as old as the practice of landownership. A person will buy a property and rent it out to a tenant. The owner, the landlord, is responsible for paying the mortgage, taxes and costs of maintaining the property. Ideally, the landlord charges enough rent to cover all of the aforementioned costs. A landlord may also charge more in order to produce a monthly profit, but the most common strategy is to be patient and only charge enough rent to cover expenses until the mortgage has been paid, at which time the majority of the rent becomes profit. Furthermore, the property may also have appreciated in value over the course of the mortgage (according to the U.S. Census Bureau, real estate has consistently increased in value since 1940), leaving the landlord with a more valuable asset.
Real Estate Investment Group Real estate investment groups are sort of like small mutual funds for rental properties. If you want to own a rental property, but don't want the hassle of being a landlord, a real estate investment group may be the solution for you. A company will buy or build a set of apartment blocks or condos and then allow investors to buy them through the company (thus joining the group). A single investor can own one or multiple units (self-contained living space), but the company operating the investment group either jointly manages or hires a property management team to manage all of the units - taking care of maintenance, advertising vacant units and interviewing tenants. In exchange for this management, the company takes a percentage of the monthly rent.
Real Estate Trading or Flipping This is the wild side of real estate investment – this is for the risk-takers. Like the day traders who are leagues away from a buyand-hold investor, the real estate traders, also known as flippers, are an entirely different breed from the buy-and-rent propertyowners. Real estate traders buy properties with the intention of holding them for a short period of time (often no more than three to four months), at which point they hope to sell them for a profit. This practice is also called flipping properties and is based on buying properties that are either substantially undervalued or are in a very hot market. All in all, buying an investment property can be an overwhelming decision. Investing is a choice many people make at one point or another, in the hope of bringing wealth to their lives. However, property investment isn’t for everyone. Thus if you are considering investing in property, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons. Good luck! 4 CasaGuam July 2016
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Market Repor t
Market Snapshot 2015/2016 Sold Market Analysis Comparison Statistics
Type
Total Active
Number Sold
Average Sale Price
Days on Market
Last Year
This Year
Last Year
This Year
Last Year
This Year
Last Year
This Year
Condo/Twn Hs Land Multi Family Commercial Bldgs
287 645 42 37
235 652 69 52
83 66 2 4
81 63 5 6
$172,451 $122,919 $430,000 $930,699
$227,493 $180,511 $340,727 $673,833
128 314 510 264
146 178 167 250
Single Family
522
496
141
136
$289,302
$314,911
168
170
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Feature
Getting Connected to Water Courtesy of Heidi Ballendorf and Guam Waterworks Authority
The following information is for customers who are applying for water and sewer service line connections to the GWA system. This outline is for those customers who are constructing new homes, businesses, and agriculture connections only.
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Water Meter Connection Checklist: 1. Please apply for a water meter after your building permit has been issued and way before your contractor begins work on your proposed project. You can only apply for a water meter on line by going to www.guamwaterworks.org and clicking on the customer service division link or you can come into the Gloria B. Nelson Public Service Building (GBNPSB) in Fadian Mangilao. Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Here is what you will need to complete your application for water and sewer line services if you come in person to GBNPS: a. Application Form b. Certificate of Title or Deed or Gift of home/business/or a final lease/rental agreement. c. For meter issues: meter must be located on the utility easement. d. The home owner is responsible for the installation of the connection to the GWA main water line. This connection needs to be conducted by a licensed contractor. The service lateral connection to the GWA water main and the piping must be witnessed by a GWA inspector. e. A ž inch water residential meter costs $637.57 for new water customers. f. Building permit or a letter from Department of Agriculture if you are applying for an agriculture meter. g. Map to the site of the proposed service. h. Authorization from the owner that you can sign (if you are not property owner) i. Request For Tapping Permit Form (RFTPF). This form is required before any connection to the GWA system can begin. This form will be provided by the permit/inspection section of the Engineering department. j. DPW’s house numbering system.
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2. The Customer Service (CS) Department will assign an account number and a work order number to applicant. A CS representative will accompany applicant to the Permits/Inspection section of the Engineering Department (2nd Floor of GBNPSB). 3. Permits/Inspection personnel will verify all necessary and completed documents and provide any additional documents that might be needed. This includes the RFTPF. 4. The applicant should be free from any outstanding bills with GWA. 5. Commercial account applicants should be under the business name. 6. Contractors need to provide business license with EIN. 7. GWA will conduct periodic inspections throughout onstruction phase to ensure compliance with the approved building permit. Inspectors focus will be on the infrastructure that will be turned over to GWA upon completion of construction. GWA will not accept any infrastructure without having the opportunity to inspect during the construction phase. This also applies to the sewer connection request. GWA personnel will ensure applicant compliance with GWA's Sewer connection standards in the GWA rules and regulations handbook.
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Feature System Development Charge (SDC) 1. The SDC applies to properties with new connections to the GWA system or that will place an increased demand on the system. 2. The water SDC for a ¾ inch water meter is $2,126.00. 3. The wastewater SDC of a ¾ inch meter is $3,474.00. 4. Residential water connections that qualify for amortization involves an initial payment of $500.00, followed by monthly payments of $22.58 for 96 months at an annual interest of 7.5%.
8. The applicant or the applicant contractor is responsible for informing GWA permit/inspection section at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled dates for trenching, meter installation, and tapping into water lines. This applies to sewer connection as well. 9. Upon approval of installation the permits/inspection personnel will prepare a job cost sheet for the applicant. This delineates the changes associated with the installation of the meter and cost of new meter. This also applies to sewer connection as well. A sketch will be provided by GWA permit staff indicating the exact location of the meter. 10. If agriculture service is requested SDC charges will be assessed based on size of meter. Agriculture connections (including CLTC agricultural leases) are required to include a backflow preventer, which will be provided at the customer’s expense. 11. Upon the completion of number 10 above applicant returns to CS to further process work order. Payment must be made to the cashiers at Fadian who process GWA payments. After receipt of payment, a service order is forwarded to meter services from CS. Meters will be installed within 3-5 working days of receiving service order. This applies to sewer connection as well.
Wastewater Line (sewer) Connection: For sewer line connection request after completing the same steps as water connection please go directly to the 2nd Floor of GBNPSB the permits/inspection department of GWA ngineering to apply for a waste water tapping permit. All wastewater applicants need to follow same guidelines and requirements as water applicants (SEE ABOVE) For more information on water/sewer lines or system development charges (SDC) contact customer service department at 647-7800/7803 or email customers@guamwaterworks.org. Inspection/permits can be contacted at: 300-6058 or permits@guamwaterworks.org.
5. Residential wastewater connections that qualify for amortization involve an initial payment of $500.00 followed by monthly payments of $41.29 for 96 months at an annual interest rate of 7.5%. 6. Qualifications for an amortized payment are: a. The connection must serve a primary residence. b. A document showing proof of property ownership (such as a title or deed) or a finalized rental/lease agreement. c. If the property is under a Chamorro Land Trust Commission (CLTC) lease, a CLTC memo authorizing the applicant to apply for utilities and clearly authorizing the lessee to construct/continue to use the land as a residence is required. d. If the total cost of land and construction is no more than $210,000.00, then an applicant might qualify for an Affordable Housing SDC. A percentage of the total cost of construction and land purchase is used to calculate the Affordable Housing SDC. Documentation of the land purchase price and construction costs are required. See GWA for more information. Note: All GWA rates and charges are recommended by the Consolidated Commission on Utilities (CCU) and approved by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). For more information on these separate entities log onto www.guamccu.org or the public utilities commisssion at www.guampuc.com. For more information about GWA check out www.guamwaterworks.org or like us on www.facebook/guamwaterworkauthority.org Furthermore: The GWA water system must be able to accommodate additional connections without adversely impacting existing customers and without resulting in a reduction in water pressure below GWA standards. About the Author: Heidi Ballendorf is the Communications & Community Relations Director for Guam Waterworks Authority CasaGuam.com 9
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On The Cover
Yigo Hidden Jewel ooking for the perfect tranquil house to call home? This brand new modern house in Yigo is the perfect one for you! It is located in a quiet and peaceful neighborhood. You will be amazed with what this 4 Bedroom/4 full bath house has to offer. It has a fully fenced-in yard with an automatic gate; executive kitchen layout with dark cabinetry that provides lots of storage, and a spacious living and dining room area! It does not stop here! It has a modern look from the exterior custom wall tiles to the interior high ceilings that have beautiful custom light fixtures. Natural lighting is present throughout the house, and there is a second living area that can be opened up into an outdoor patio to host parties! There is more to see in this beautiful house!
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Why wait? Call now to arrange the showings! 441 Chalan Spc John T. Sablan, Yigo
ML # 16-1754 MLS 16-175 16-17 1 16 1616-1 10 CasaGuam July 2016
• Asking $528,000.00 • Modern 4 Bdrm / 4 Bth • Living 2,170 sq.ft • Lot 2,009 +/- sq.mtr • BRAND NEW • Spacious Living
karen1282001@yahoo.com
988-1883
Karen Pan Principal Broker
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FOR SALE
Tel: 649.1883
BRAND NEW MLS# 16-1228 • Sale: $580,000 • Tamuning • 4BD/4BA • Living 2,573 SqFt • Lot 464 +/- SqMtrs • Brand New 2 Story House • Spacious Living • High Ceilings • Fully Gated
MLS#16-641 • Sale: $925,000 • Pago Bay • 3BD/2.5BA • Living 4,800 SqFt • Lot 1,969 +/- SqMtrs • Cliff side Executive House • Ocean View • Spacious Living • Ample Yard Space
www.guamidealrealty.com
MLS#15-2785 • Sale: $508,000 • Barrigada • 4BD/5BA • Living 2,867 SqFt • Lot 969 +/- SqMtrs • Executive Master Bath w/ Jacuzzi • Modern House w/ Spacious Living Area
MLS#15-2199 • Sale: $748K • Tamuning • “C” Zone (2F) 4BD/2BA (1F) 1BD/2BA • Living 2,536 SqFt • Lot 1,279 +/- SqMtrs • Along Farenholt Ave • Road Frontage
MLS#15-2146 • Sale: $448,000 • NCS Dededo • Multi-Family 2 Story • (2) 4BD/2BA (2) 1BD/1BA Duplex (2) 2BD/1BA Additional (1) 1BD/1BA • Living 5,800 SqFt • Lot 867 +/- SqMtrs • Investors Project
MLS#16-1768 • Lot for Sale: $408,000 • Tumon Lane • Vacant Lot (R2) • Lot 2,896 +/SqMtrs • Investor Alert • Perfect Lot for next Condominium Project • Behind Tumon Driving Range
MLS#16-591 • Lot for Sale: $1,878,670.00 • Tumon (Off Santos Way St) • Vacant Lot (H zone) • Lot 4,369 +/- SqMtrs • Walking Distance to Beaches • Investor Alert • Located in Tumon’s Shopping District
New Rental! • Rent: $1,200/mo • Dededo (East San Antonio Ave) • 3BD/2BA • Fully Fenced • Spacious Living Room • Brand New Appliances • Close commute to Dededo Shopping areas
MLS#16-2050 • Rent: $1,000/mo • MTM • 2BD/1BA (2F Unit) • Living 900 SqFt • Quiet Neighborhood • Updated Kitchen Layout • Spacious • Close to Agana Business District
NEW! Fixer-Upper Deal! • Cash Buyer: $135,000 • Ordot-Chalan Pago • 3BD/1BA • Living 850 +/- SqFt • Lot 929 +/- SqMtrs • Located behind Island Fresh • Estimate built 1998 • 1 year right of redemption applied
FOR RENT
MLS#16-1090 • Commercial Space for Rent: $3,500/mo • Upper Tumon (A1-A2) • Living 2,400 SqFt • Great Location for Business Opportunity • Ample Parking Space • Road Frontage • Partial Oceanview
Why wait? Call now to arrange a showing!
Karen Pan Principal Broker
(671) 988-1883 karen.pan@guamidealrealty.com CasaGuam.com 11
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Real Estate Spotlight
Preliminary Title Report vs. Title Insurance Policy
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What is the difference between a Preliminary title Report (PTR) and a Title Insurance Policy? When you order a title search from a title company you might get one of the following products, depending on why you need the information. Preliminary Title Report (PTR). This is the most common report requested. It shows the exact legal description of the property, who owns the property (and what interest they own, ie: fee simple, leasehold, sub-leasehold). A PTR is the report that your real estate agent would order in anticipation of selling your home. This report carries no liability on the part of the title company. It is for informational purposes only. Ownership and Encumbrance Report (OER). This is a slimmed down version of the PTR in that it names the property, the interest, the owner and any encumbrances against the property. Like the PTR, this report carries no liability on the part of the title company. This report would be ordered by someone just interested in knowing the basics about a property without having an interest in buying the property. Commitment to Insure. Of all the title reports, this form carries very limited liability on behalf of the title company because it is issued in anticipation of closing a real estate transaction. It not only reports on the property, the interest, the owner and any taxes, easements, liens, leases or other items affecting the property, but it ALSO contains an agreement to insure a particular buyer for the amount of the purchase price and/or the lender for the amount of the mortgage once any stated conditions have been met. No matter which report you order above, the one thing they have in common is that they are NOT a guaranty of title. The only way your investment is protected is when you purchase an owner’s title insurance policy for your property. Here’s a quick overview of an owner’s title insurance policy: An owner’s title insurance policy protects the buyer’s investment in the property against a multitude of claims that might be made against the property, including unpaid property taxes, unreleased mortgages, and forgery in the chain of title to name a few. It insures only the buyer, and when they sell the property, subsequent owners must acquire their own title insurance policy to protect their ownership interest. The premium for the owners policy is paid only once at closing, and coverage lasts the entire time the buyer owns the property. 12 CasaGuam July 2016
By Kim Anderson Young
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
Simmons Eases Clients Into Process By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
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Luanna Simmons REALTOR® RE/MAX DIAMOND REALTY
“…keep pushing forward. It will pay off! Always be prepared to learn new things everyday and you can’t go wrong!”
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She’s a “fresh face” to the real estate world, but not to the customer service side of the industry, nor to sales. Luana Simmons, who many know simply as “Anna”, started her real estate career this year. She has worked at many different jobs, but her last was working in retail sales and marketing. Simmons wanted to get into a field that she can be passionate about. Her dream was to take her sales skills to another level by having her own business. Her choice to go into real estate was influenced by other family members already in the field. She saw how they had flexibility and control of their schedule. She wanted to pursue something different and she found what she was looking for in a career in this industry. She enjoys helping families rent, sell or purchase their home. “It is a somewhat stressful process and I like the idea of bringing ease into these situations by being as helpful and reliable as possible,” she said. Even though she is new to the industry, she has learned a few things about being a real estate agent. “You need to stay confident, be humble, and never give up!” She added that in the beginning, it will take a lot of time, money, and studying. “But keep pushing forward. It will pay off ! Always be prepared to learn new things everyday and you can’t go wrong!” She reported that CasaGuam plays an important role in keeping Guam informed with the newest listings on the market. “The magazine gives people the opportunity to get a sneak peek at the homes available on island, as well as help other agents stay connected with the market.” She also uses the magazine as a venue to post her listings and offer her services to the public. Simmons loves spending time with her friends and family when she is not working. Her hobbies include graphic designing, editing, and working on craft projects. She also enjoys the outdoors and paddle boarding. Her love for food and culture drives her passion to travel. She has been to Japan, Philippines, New York and Hawaii - places that have great food!
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From the Experts
Guam’s Water Is Safe to Drink
Courtesy of Hiedi Ballendorg & Guam Waterworks Authority
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Lead. E. coli. Arsenic. Ever heard of them? These are just some of the many contaminants and bacteria which potentially could affect your health. To ensure the safety of Guam’s tap water for all our residents and visitors, Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA) constantly tests the water to ensure your water is SAFE TO DRINK. Did you know GWA can come to your house and test your water? Call our lab at 637-2895 and arrange a test today! GWA tests every day, various points along the 700 miles of water lines that deliver water to your homes and businesses. Up north, Guam’s water is supplied through the world’s fastest recharging aquifer. What does that mean? Within 24 hours of anything hitting the surface, it gets to the water lens. From Hagatña to Yigo, Guam’s residents are serviced by 100 wells. Down south, Guam’s water is provided by the Ugum River and Fena Lake. Every year, GWA is required by the USEPA to release an annual water quality report. You can find it http://guamwaterworks.org/documents/2014WaterQualityReport.pdf In the 2014 Water Quality report, it is noted that Guam’s water is safe to drink because there were no signs of lead, E. coli, or arsenic in the water. Some residents might taste a distinct flavor in our island’s water. This is the result of Guam’s naturally high calcium levels in the groundwater, but rest assured that the water is safe to drink. GWA cleanses the water of some natural minerals such as limestone by adding chlorine. Adding chlorine in the water eliminates waterborne illnesses such as cholera. At GWA, we encourage you to save on your water bill by drinking tap water. If the natural calcium taste bothers you, you can add a filter to remove the natural calcium flavor. You can also add fruits and/or vegetables to your water such as oranges, lemon, berries, or cucumber to give your water a fresh burst of flavor! Drinking Guam’s tap water is safe and a good way to save money and save our environment. For more information about GWA, you can visit us (and LIKE us) at www.facebook.com/guamwaterworksauthority. You can also follow us on twitter at guamwaterworks. We can be contacted the old fashioned way via phone call or email at 647-7800 or customers@guamwaterworks.org. 16 CasaGuam July 2016
About the Author: Hiedi Ballendorf is the Guam Waterworks Authority Communications & Community Relations Director
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H o w To D . I . Y.
Making Your Own Water Reservoir ecycling of rainwater is a conservation effort practiced in many parts of the world. There are a few places where a law exists that require all new construction to include rainwaterharvesting adequate for the resident. Good idea!
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What is Rainwater Harvesting? Basically, it is the simple collection or storing of water through scientific techniques from the areas where the rain falls. It involves utilization of rain water for domestic or agricultural purpose. The method is simple and cost effective too. Rainwater harvesting ensures an independent water supply. This is great for when our main water supply is restricted or if we choose to save some dollars, as well as practice water conservation. For several months, Guam has been blest with much rainfall (or should I say, ALOT of rainfall!). What an opportunity for one to save the downpour, harness the water and recycle it for the many uses in our homes like flushing toilets, watering plants, irrigation and other interior and exterior uses. Recycling rainwater is a technique that is somewhat dependent on end-use and maintenance. It produces beneficial effects by reducing peak storm water runoff and processing costs. Rainwater harvesting systems are simple to install and operate. Running costs are negligible, and they provide water at the point of consumption. It is important that the system is sized to meet the water demand throughout the dry season. In addition, the size of the catchment area or roof should be large enough to fill the tank. Methods of Rainwater Harvesting There are a few ways to harvest rainwater. The two main ones are surface runoff and roof top rainwater. Surface runoff harvesting, is rainwater that flows away as surface runoff. This runoff could be caught and used. Roof Top rainwater harvesting, which this article will focus on, is a system of catching rainwater where it falls. In rooftop harvesting, the roof becomes the catchments, and the rainwater is collected from the roof of the house. It can either be stored in a tank or diverted to artificial recharge system. This method is less expensive and very effective and if implemented properly helps in augmenting the ground water level of the area. 18 CasaGuam July 2016
By Arlene Taitague Taitingfong
A Few Examples of Roof Top Rainwater Harvesting
Figure 1: The illustrative design of the basic components of rooftop
Figure 2: Another example of a rainwater harvesting system.
If you were ever in one of our typhoons (or experienced storm situations), you are no stranger to this basic rainwater solution technique as seen in this illustration. This is a basic model of rainwater harvesting. Costs are low and one can access the Figure 3: Example of basic rainwater solution. contained water easily. After a storm, one can easily have water for flushing the toilets, bathing and washing dishes. I mentioned that rainwater recycling is easy and affordable. I guess in determining what system to use or how elaborate you want the system to be, you need to ask yourself a few questions. Do I want a container on my rooftop or on the side of my home? Do I want it underground? What will I be using the water for? Do I plan to drink the recycled water? If so, how can I “treat” the water for consumption? How much is my budget? Check online for the many, many types of techniques one can use. There is a shower of great ideas! Also check the phone book as there are a few companies on Guam that can assist. Whether you have an existing home or plan to build one later, include a rainwater recycling system into your plan. It will increase you home’s value and save you money on your water bill, and you would be conserving another resource. Til next time, Go Green Guam! Did You Know? • 1 inch of rainfall on a 2,000 sq. ft. residential roof generates 1,250 gallons of water that can be reused. • That same roof in a region receiving 30 inches of annual rainfall generates 41,000 gallons of reusable water. • The average US household with a 10,000 square foot lot uses 5,000 gallons of water weekly for landscape irrigation. • Running a sprinkler for 2 hours can use up to 500 gallons of water.
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Curb Appeal
Six Important Ways a Hot Tub at Home Will Guarantee Better Health Top 6 ways having a hot tub at home and using it will improve your health. In January most people’s thoughts turn to ways they can improve their health in the new year, but many have lost their focus by February. Get back to your original intention to be healthier by installing a hot tub at home. It’s not too late. It’s YOUR one and only body, take care of it! Hot water bathing has been a tradition in many cultures since roman times. But many people don’t know that today’s hot tubs provide significant health benefits. Take a look at the latest studies that will show you how a hot tub at home can lead the way to wellness from head to toe: 1. Better sleep. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 70 million Americans suffer from mild to chronic insomnia and other sleep disorders. A recent study in the scientific journal Sleep showed that soaking in a hot tub prior to bedtime can help insomniacs achieve a deeper, more relaxing sleep. Taking a soak in 102 degree water 2-3 hours before bedtime will relax you and re-set your body thermostat making it easier to both fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. 2. Stress Relief. There’s no better way to stimulate the body’s natural endorphin release than soaking in a hot tub. The heat increases blood flow and the therapeutic massage works out
muscle soreness. Stress is a silent killer in our overworked culture. The resulting muscle tension, headaches, soreness and fatigue which can continue over time can lead to serious health problems. Not only does a spa’s buoyancy ease pressure on joints and muscles, the mood elevation and the natural relaxation response is a priceless way to improve health. 3. Improve your game. According to Tennis Magazine, improving your game is a cinch when you soak after playing. You’ll avoid muscle soreness the next day and your joints will thank you for the increased blood circulation which takes away lactic acid (which is what causes soreness and fatigue) built up through a rigorous game.Buy SilkBalance and stop itchy skin from harsh hot tub chemicals and automatically balance your hot tub water chemistry. Pour it and ignore it! 4. Knee pain relief. A recent study of patients who had undergone knee replacement surgery found that not only did they experience less pain, but their recovery time was faster than for non-soakers. Their range of motion improved significantly faster and they used less pain medication than did the non-soakers. 5. Banish Back Pain. Lower back pain is the number two reason in the U.S. (after colds and flu) for a visit to the doctor. The British Journal of Rheumatology published a study which demonstrated that hot tub therapy has both sort and long-term benefits for people with lower back pain. A later study in the same journal further documented the those findings. After three weeks of consistent spa therapy, examinations showed more
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Curb Appeal
improvement in the health status (as measured in pain duration and intensity and back flexibility) of the spa treatment group than of the medication-only group. After six months, significant improvement continued in the spa therapy group. In addition, their use of analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs had decreased. 6. Soothing Relief for Arthritis Pain. Approximately 43 million people in the United States suffer from some form of arthritis pain. The good news for those who suffer from it is that there are safe and effective ways to both minimize the discomfort and prevent further damage. According to a publication from The Arthritis Foundation entitled Spas, Pools, and Arthritis, “Regular sessions in your hot tub help keep joints moving. It restores and preserves strength and flexibility, and also protects your joints from further damage. Exercise can also improve a person’s coordination, endurance, and the ability to perform daily tasks, and can lead to an enhanced sense of self-esteem and accomplishment.” “A hot tub fulfills the need perfectly…providing the warmth, massage, and buoyancy that is so necessary to the well-being of arthritis sufferers. The buoyancy of the water supports and lessens stress on the joints and encourages freer movement. Water exercises may even act as a resistance to help build muscle strength.” Citing Source: http://www.olympichottub.com/hot-tubs-sauna-blog/2011/02/top-6-waysa-hot-tub-at-home-will-improve-your-health-2/
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W h o Ya G o n n a C a l l ?
472-3497 dvertising “Your Ac Spe ialist” Arlene Taitingfong Editor
Email: ataitingfong@yellowpagesink.com CasaGuam.com 25
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Classifieds Commercial Rentals
Piti
Chalan Pago
Land for Sale
Hagåtña
2BR, Ocean view! Across the beach! Close to Port, Naval Station, Polaris, & Stores. Max two tenants. $650 (Price does not include utilities) Call 649-8265 or 727-8265.
Pago Bay, Newly Built Home for Sale by Developer. Starting from $525,000. New subdivision, 2 story home, high ceilings, 3BD/3BA, 2 living rooms, dining room. Ocean & mountain views.
Agana Heights Lovely 1,640 +/- sm parcel fronting Chalan Macajna. R-2 zoned. Includes 2 lots. Close to the Firary. Rare opportunity. $169,500. Call Anthony at 688-8198.
Sinajana
Dededo
Agat
3BD/2BA home. Fully fenced. Price reduced. $305K. Call Ellen’s Realty at 647-0888 for more details!
14,221 SqMtrs. Fairly level. $711,050. Call 649-2121 for more details.
Commercial space for rent. 1,792 square feet. $3,500/month. Call Ellen’s Realty at 647-0888 for more details!
Tamuning 5 contiguous spaces available right on Guam’s busiest intersection! Highly visible, ample parking, backup generator.
Holiday Tower Condo - 2BD/2BA. Corner unit. Ocean & island views. Upscale & upgraded kitchen w/ extra counter space & stainless appliances. $2,205/mo. Call Sandy @ 687-6006.
$1,312.50/mo each. Call Sandy at 687-6006.
Yigo Northpoint Commercial Complex Space for Rent. $1.80 per square foot, $0.60 per square foot for common fee.
Merizo Santa Rita
Tamuning 4BD/2BA centrally located home for rent, along Carlos Heights. Tumon is closeby. Call Lolita @ 688-6743 or 479-8891 for more details.
4BD/3BA upgraded home. Fully fenced. Minutes away from Naval Station. $310K. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.
Talofofo
Call Rowena at 483-4317.
Tumon
Residential Rentals Barrigada 4BD/2BAHome . Central living close to the airport, schools and shopping areas.
Tecio Tumon Villa - Awesome 3BD/2BA unit in the heart of Pleasure Island. Walking distance to beaches, dining, shopping & more! $2,600/mo. Call Janet @ 687-1841.
$2,700/mo. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.
Tumon Horizon Condo - 2BD/1BA. Fully renovated & furnished. Water included. Call Weiwei @ 777-0688.
Dededo
Large 3BD/3BA home. Includes 25K generator, 650 gal water tank. $360K. Call Dennis at 727-3815.
Tamuning Oka Tower Condo. 2BD/2BA 1st floor unit. Superb amenities. $298K. Call Sandy at 687-6006.
3BD/2BA home for rent. $1,980/mo.
4BD/2BA Home. Peaceful and safe environment. Breezy and airy location. $1,500/mo. Call Lolita at 479-8891 or 688-6743.
Fully renovated. Fenced & gated. Call Loisa @ 727-6880.
Ordot-Chalan Pago Peaceful and serene 4BD/2BA home. 1,922+/-sf of living space. Upgrade master suite. 3-car covered car port. Call Suzanne @ 482-6426.
880+/- square meter land in a great central location and immediately available to build. Quiet neighborhood but close to central shopping and business areas. $65K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Piti 24,173+/- square meter lot with partial ocean view for agriculture or developers. Close to Harbor, Port Authority & Naval Base. $846,055. Negotiable. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Talofofo
Yona
for more details!
Ordot-Chalan Pago
Tumon
5BD/5.5BA home. $4,800/mo. Call Ellen’s Realty @ 647-0888
Almost one acre lot ready for farming or dream home in quiet but lush area. $44K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Tumon Condo. 3BD/2BA. Great location close to restaurants, shopping areas, and minutes away from beaches. Grea investment. $150K. Call Karen @ 988-1883.
Residential Sales
Yigo
Barrigada
3BD/2BA Home, gated, storm shutters, split A/C, backup generator. $195,000. Call 688-8276 or 653-5679.
4BD/5BA modern home with spacious living area. Includes executive master bath with jacuzzi. Lot +/- 969 square meters. Price dropped to $508K! Call Karen at 988-1883..
Wonderful 2BD/2.5BA home. 1,714 +/- sf living space. Fully fenced. $321K. Call Suzanne at 482-6426.
929+/- square meter land for sale. Quarter acre lot, rectangular in shape. $57,400. Call Lolita @ 688-6743 or 479-8891 for more details.
Yigo 2,787+/- square meter land in the midst of quiet ambiance. Almost 3/4 acre lot just outside the back gate of AAFB. $105K. Negotiable. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
Yona One of seven lots and could become a developer’s dream. Located in the heart of Pulantat, Yona. 1,858+/- square meters. $50K. Call Flora @ 727-2955.
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Closing
Message from the President
Message from the Chief Executive Officer and Government Affairs Director
Deanna Palmer 2016 President Guam Association of REALTORS®
Welcome to the Summer Rental Season Summer is the usual high season for people looking to move into a new place. This is also true for Guam. The rental market has been increasing in price per unit over the last year, and with that increase in price, the properties have been greatly improved. There are investors who have bought run down buildings and units, and spent money to improve these units to a higher standard. Even the lower priced units have more competition with offered units in good and very good condition. The middle and high priced units offer many upgrades and some even come fully furnished. Improvements include: new kitchens, new bathrooms, new flooring (ceramic tile usually) and new appliances. Sometimes the improvements include new windows and even new floor plans. Owners/Investors are also furnishing some rental units for people coming to Guam for yearly contracts. This is where the bar has been again raised! They are including everything from furniture to TV’s and artwork to dishes. The units feel almost like a vacation rental. The demand for this type of rental is here and growing! Your real estate professional can assist you in your search for a rental and help to filter the list to one that meet your needs and budget. They can also give advice to owners on what to improve on their property in order to gain the best rent in the shortest amount of time. -Ask if your agent is a REALTOR®. A member of the Guam Association of REALTORS® who shall remain your leading advocate for promoting and protecting homeownership on Guam. Visit our website at www.guamrealtors.com.
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 July 2016
Peggy Araullo Llagas Guam Association of REALTORS®
IRS Requires Reporting of Cooperative Commissions The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) requires that listing brokers who pay a cooperative commission in excess of $600 to an individual who is not their employee must complete a Form 1099-MISC. While this is not a new law, it has come to NAR’s attention that not all real estate professionals are aware of this requirement. Below is a brief description of this issue and links to the necessary forms. IRS Requirements The IRS requires individuals that: 1. pay compensation of $600 or more to 2. an individual who is not an employee 3. for services provided 4. during the course of the payor’s trade or business To complete Box 7 - Nonemployee Compensation on Form 1099-MISC, give Copy B of the form to the individual who received the compensation, and file Copy A with the IRS. “Nonemployee compensation” includes fees, commissions, prizes, and awards, and so would include cooperative commissions and referral fees paid by real estate professionals because these payments are made during the course of their trade or business to nonemployees. These filing requirements exist even if the listing broker is not directly paying the cooperative commission to the other broker. So, if the cooperative commission is paid by the escrow agent to the other broker, the listing broker may still need to file a 1099-MISC. This is because the funds constituting the cooperative commission are drawn from the listing broker’s portion of the commission and so the payment is technically made by the listing broker. This requirement only applies to payments made to individuals, and does not apply when the payments are made to corporations. Listing brokers should still make it part of their business practice to obtain a completed Form W-9 from anyone to whom it pays a commission, whether it be an individual or a corporation. Property owners do not need to complete a 1099-MISC for the commissions they pay to real estate professionals because this activity is not part of their trade or business. Here is an illustrative example: Joe Seller lists his home for sale with real estate broker Don Listbroker. Listbroker places the listing into a multiple listing service and offers a cooperative commission to any MLS participant who brings him a buyer that successfully purchases the property. A client of another broker's salesperson, Julie Buyerep, made an offer to purchase Seller’s home. Seller accepts the offer, and the transaction closes. At closing, the escrow agent makes commission payments to both Listbroker and Buyerep’s principal broker, Don Broker. Here is who is required to report commissions to the IRS: Listbroker has an obligation to report the commission payments made to Broker, even though Broker received the commission check from the escrow agent Broker has an obligation to report the commission amounts that he pays to Buyerep. Neither Seller nor the buyer have any obligation to report the commissions that their real estate representatives received
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