2015 King George Virginia Home & Craft show

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March, 2015, 1

26th 26th King King George George Home Home & & Craft Craft Show Show

March 7th & 8th, 2015 • King George High School

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March, 2015, 3

Event continues to grow through the years Richard Leggitt The recent stretch of cold, ice and snow has kept many King George area families cooped up indoors, but the 26th Annual King George Home & Craft Show will help end the home bound fever when it takes place March 7-8.

"After this winter, people are ready to get out," said Tommy Burrell, one of the founders of the home show, which began in 1989.

The home show was the idea of Burrell, the president of the King George Builder's Association at the time, and Ruth Herrink, the late publisher of The Journal.

"We worked hand-in-hand with the Journal. It was good for us in that it helped get the various business get known to the public and it was good for the Journal also," said Burrell, who is helping on this year's home show as a volunteer. "When we first started, it was mostly real estate companies, agents and contractors. Then we started doing crafters to make it larger and have more things for people to do.

File photo

This year's King George Home & Craft Show is expected to draw several thousand people.

The first home show was at the old King George Firehouse and had 12 exhibitors and drew a crowd of several hundred people.

"It just kept getting bigger and bigger," Burrell said. "It's going great and we are going to keep it going."

The 2015 show, which will again

be sponsored by The Journal and the King George Builders Association, will be at King George High School and will feature more than 100 exhibitors. It is expected to draw a crowd of several thousand.

Burrell, who owns Thomas M. Burrell Inc., and has been generating

home sales from his home show exhibit since his first home show exhibit, said, "we've all worked together to make it successful."

The King George Builders Association, which was founded by Burrell and five other builders, has grown along with the home show it

sponsors. Today, it has more than 48 different businesses involved including Realtors, lenders and contractors.

"The home show has become an important community event," said Ella Hubbard, who is the current president of the KGBA and the first female president of the organization. "It's a great time for people to come out and see their friends."

Hubbard said increased advertising this year is hopefully going to help build the crowds and participation in the home show.

"We've done more advertising this year, including online advertising, radio and even advertising on transit buses in Maryland to try to increase participation," she said.

Hubbard and Burrell credited Lori Deem of The Journal, who is serving as the director of this year's show, with helping create and develop the current successful home show plan.

"There have been a lot of good people, like Lori, involved," Burrell said. "That's why this has worked so well."

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4, March 2015

26th annual home & craft show

KG chamber hard at work helping area development King George Chamber of Commerce The King George Chamber of Commerce is hard at work trying to increase members in the organization.

We want the community to know they do not have to be business owners to belong to their Chamber.

The Executive Board has been working to increase the Chamber's visibility within the county by attending business grand openings.

We have attended Board of Supervisor's meetings in support of members seeking changes from the Board of Supervisors.

The Executive Board and Chamber has been working to forge a positive relationship with the economic development director for the county. We

have worked to bring programs to our meetings that are helpful to our members. We highlight businesses at our monthly meetings allowing the business owner to share information about what exactly their business does in the area.

We are continuing to work at developing contacts with our neighboring chamber in Colonial Beach. We have worked to rekindle our relationship with the KGBA and look forward to working with them in the future.

We have undertaken a fund raising activity to support our scholarship fund to benefit graduating seniors who are going into a study of business.

Our Chamber website is currently undergoing a major makeover that will have links to business websites and other contact information.

Lowdown on down payments StatePoint You may have heard the rule of thumb that you shouldn't buy a home unless you can put down 20 percent of the purchase price.

However, today’s home buyers have many choices when it comes to the size of the down payment.

While this magic number of 20 percent will save you from paying Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), an added insurance policy that protects the lender if you are unable to pay your mortgage, you can pay considerably less than this if you want.

“Today's consumers persistently overestimate the size of a down payment they need to finance a home,” says Christina Boyle, SVP and Head of Single-Family Sales & Relationship Management at Freddie Mac. According to the results of a recent survey conducted by Zelman & Associates, 39 percent of those surveyed estimated that the minimum down payment requirement for a home is at least 15 percent of the purchase price. The reality is quite different however, as qualified buyers can

get a conventional mortgage with a down payment of as little as three percent.

In fact, recent statistics show more than one in five borrowers who took out conventional mortgages in 2014 put down 10 percent or less.

Educating potential homeowners on the rules of down payments – and available assistance programs – plays a large role in getting qualified borrowers off the sidelines and into homeownership, according to Boyle, who also notes that today's historically low mortgage rates, coupled with affordable home prices in many parts of the country, make it an attractive time to consider buying.

“If putting 20 percent down will deplete all of your savings and leave you with no financial cushion, it's probably not in your best interest,” she says.

If you don’t put down 20 percent,

the cost of PMI varies based on your loan-to-value ratio – the amount you owe on your mortgage compared to its value – and credit score, but you can expect to pay between $30 and $70 per month for every $100,000 borrowed. While it’s no doubt an added cost, it enables buyers to purchase now and begin building equity versus waiting five to 10 years to build enough savings for a larger down payment.

Additionally, once you've built equity of 20 percent in your home, you can cancel your PMI and remove that added expense from your monthly payment.

New homeownership opportunities are poised to grow.

Carefully evaluate your finances to determine how much you can afford and talk with your lender or housing professional about what makes best sense for you and your particular situation.

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Who's going to be at this year's show Exhibitors/Builders n Tommy Burrell, Inc. n Few Oaks Farm n Potomac Kitchen & Bath Designs n Legacy Homes n Weston Homes n George Mason Mortgage n Rankins Tru Value n Permatreat n KG YMCA n Southern Pride Service n Deputy Land Surveying n Union First Market Bank n Dale Breer, Realtor n NARFE Premier Federal Credit Union n Remodel USA n Westbrook Homes n REMAX Supercenter n Peoples Community Bank

n Coldwell Banker Elite — Latana Locke n Garcia Enterprises, Inc. n Professional Plumbing Solutions, Inc. n Gateway Power Equipment n Custom Concrete Curbing n Leaffilter North of Virginia n Mid Atlantic Waterproofing of Va., Inc. n FitzGerald Financial Group n EXIT Realty Expertise Hugh C. Gardiner, Inc. n NSWC Federal Credit Union n ADT Security, LLC n Shilo Building Supply n L.R. Reynolds, Engraving n John Buckner, Stump Grinder n Community Bank of the Chesapeake n Green Acres n M&M Homescaping

Crafters/Vendors n Nat-Aura-ly Made n Marie’s Crocheted Creations n Mary Kay Cosmetics n Designs by Gerry n Naturally You, LLC n Khunying Jewelry n Pampered Chef n Old 2 New n Wild Willow Soap n County Weaver

Non-profits / Community Groups n Fancy’s Friends n American Legion Post 89 n KG Summer Lunch Bunch n St. Anthony’s Catholic Church n KG Education Foundation

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26th annual home & craft show

Report touts benefits of energy efficient construction RICHMOND — Housing Virginia recently released the findings of a first-of-its-kind study that demonstrates the impact of energy efficient construction requirements in affordable rental housing. The new report shows the average resident of an energy efficient apartment saves $54 per month on their electricity bill, which amounts to $648 annually.

The year-long study conducted by Virginia Tech’s Center for Housing Research also finds apartments built to higher energy efficient standards, including third-party testing and inspection, outperform new standard construction housing by more than 40 percent with respect to energy consumption.

The study is the first of its kind in Virginia and one of the first in the nation to verify actual electricity usage in apartments built to meet high-level efficiency standards.

“Virginia has been a leader in encouraging energy efficiency in the affordable rental housing market and this study verifies the effectiveness of this strategy,” said Robert Adams, Executive Director of Housing Virginia. “The energy

efficient design and standards add to the economic benefit that these lower-income families and seniors receive. Every dollar not paid for utilities can go to other important family budget items, including food, transportation, and healthcare.”

Another key finding of the study is that construction standards of this type do have a significant impact on the affordability of apartments for lower income families and seniors. The impact is greater as incomes are lower. For example, at 30 percent of median income, the average tenant will see their ability to afford housing increase by nearly 10 percent. In Northern Virginia, 30 percent of area median income is an income of $32,100 per year for a family of four.

The target communities are affordable rental housing that is developed through the Virginia Housing Development Authority’s (VHDA) Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. The study included senior housing and family housing. It also looked at the differences between new construction, rehabilitated housing and adaptive re-use.

Beginning in 2007, VHDA implemented a set of incentives in the LIHTC program that encouraged developers and builders to use a recognized third-party standard in design and construction in order to reduce long term energy usage. The incentive required the use of rigorous standards, third party testing and inspection from EarthCraft Virginia and LEED. Virginia was one of the first states to provide these types of incentives in the LIHTC program and has been a national leader in this regard. This study confirms that these policies are achieving their intended goals.

Construction of EarthCraft homes with these energy efficiency features costs no more than 3% more than that of traditional construction.

“When VHDA made changes to its tax credit program several years ago to encourage green building construction techniques, it created a very positive effect on affordable housing developments in Virginia,” said VHDA Executive Director Susan Dewey. “One of the best results from these changes is that utility bills have been significantly lowered for tenants, thereby

improving their quality of life. I am pleased that this study confirms that we are on the right track.”

“Through VHDA’s leadership and the work of our development partners, 196 developments representing more than 13,500 apartments have been certified in Virginia since 2007,” added K.C. Bleile, Executive Director at EarthCraft Virginia. “This study demonstrates the value of green building implementation through public-private partnerships to achieve monthly utility savings for residents, maximize financial investments, and support sustainable communities.”

The study was conducted by the Center for Housing Research at Virginia Tech. Dr. Andrew McCoy, the Center’s Director, served as the principal investigator for the project. During the spring and summer of 2014, researchers visited 15 affordable apartment complexes across the state and met with residents to conduct energy usage surveys. Tenants provided permission to allow access to actual utility consumption for the previous 24 months. The behavioral

surveys and consumption data were correlated to the apartment’s original energy usage estimate that was calculated when the unit was built or rehabilitated.

The energy use behavior survey revealed a number of findings that point to opportunities to achieve even greater savings. Residents reported setting thermostats at levels that exceed typical comfort temperatures, which impacts utility costs and building durability. This indicates a need for better education about the potential savings and strategies for adjusting resident behavior. Resident responses also indicated a need for more education about the equipment and design of their apartments in order to take full advantage of efficiency technologies.

“Our interaction with residents reveals that there are substantial savings that can still be achieved with more effective education and incentives. We have also learned some lessons that will help us to refine design standards and make better decisions on what technologies to deploy,” stated Dr. McCoy.

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KG must strive to improve Linwood Thomas By all accounts, 2014 was a very successful year for King George County from an economic development standpoint.

This year alone the Department of Economic Development worked 11 new projects totaling more than 1 million square feet and potential capital investments for the County of more than $180 million.

As you know, not all of these projects will close but it is critical to continue to build a pipeline. We have also added 95,000 square feet of new retail space to the county along with assisting over 50 small businesses with their start-up and expansion needs and hosted 3 ribbon cuttings for new businesses.

The addition of Commercial Metals Corporation, a Fortune 500 Company and $12 million expansion project will also bring much needed infrastructure improvements to the King George County Industrial Park along with a rail grant from the state for track expansion to parcels of the industrial park fronting Route 3.

The county also has made significant progress with Columbia Gas on a pipeline that would bring natural gas to the industrial park with the potential for further

expansion in the future. The creation of an online quarterly economic development and tourism newsletter was devised to help bring awareness to the citizens, brokers, site consultants and CEO’s alike looking at King George as a possible destination for their relocation, or expansion.

This also was critical to helping to keep the website up to date and current with fresh content. A new quarterly breakfast featuring resources for small businesses in the county to help them grow, expand, and flourish was also a new initiative in 2014.

These were just a few of the major highlights from an economic development standpoint in King George County this year.

As we move into 2015 and beyond, it is important to understand our strengths and weaknesses and how we can position the county to compete with other localities in our region, the Commonwealth of Virginia, nationally and internationally.

The cost to do business in King George offers corporations and companies alike a real advantage, having some of the lowest tax rates in Virginia. Our strategic location in between two Metropolitan Statistical Areas in Washington, D.C. and Richmond, as well as two major shipping corridors in Interstate 95 and Route 301 also

provide great access to half of the nation’s population within a 1 day drive time. Considering our prime location the cost of land remains very reasonable as well.

To attract the best opportunities for King George County, we must continue to look to improvements in our utility infrastructure where we have determined in our comprehensive plan growth is welcomed as we will return approximately 49 times that initial investment long term to the tax base.

Today, corporations and companies alike are looking for plug and play sites that are ready to break ground. To them, time is money! Those investments in infrastructure will position King George County to attract, compete and retain new and existing businesses as we look to the future.

As the economy continues to come out of the greatest recession since the Great Depression, King George has the opportunity to position itself to take advantage of a significant amount of capital from large corporations still sitting on the sidelines. The decisions we make from an economic development standpoint today will affect the success we have moving forward.

Linwood Thomas is King George County's economic development director.

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26th annual home & craft show

Five simple ways to reduce your home's energy costs Metro Creative Graphics Homeowners spend thousands of dollars per year on energy. Whether a home is big or small, energy costs are a concern for homeowners.

Though some of the costs of home ownership are beyond a person's control, there are some steps homeowners can take to reduce energy costs and save substantial amounts of money as a result. n Address any leaks. One of the most effective ways to cut energy costs is to weather strip doors and windows throughout the house.

Doing so will keep warm air in the house when it's cold and prevent drafts that occur when cold air enters the home through cracks and leaks. If a home has an attic, be sure to seal pipes, chimneys or ductwork. Addressing leaks can save homeowners as much as 10 percent

on their annual home energy costs. n Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs instead of incandescent lightbulbs. CFLs use one-quarter to one-third less energy than traditional incandescent lightbulbs.

In addition, the Alliance to Save Energy notes that CFLs can last up to 10 times longer than traditional lightbulbs. n Be mindful of the thermostat.

Most homeowners and their families spend a good portion of their day out of the house. Home heating costs can be reduced by as much as 20 percent if homeowners simply lower the thermostat during the day by 10 F. For homeowners who feel they won't remember to do so on a regular basis, a programmable thermostat will do the job on its own. n Lower water temperature.

Lowering water temperature can also lead to substantial savings.

Homeowners can save as much as five percent on their water bill by lowering the temperature on their water heater by as little as 10 F. When doing so, touch the outside of the water heater. If the outside is cold, the water heater has sufficient insulation If the water heater is hot to the touch, wrap a water heater jacket around it to increase efficiency. n Replace older appliances. Older appliances, be it an older central air conditioning unit or an older water heater, often need to expend more energy than they did when they were new. What's more, especially older appliances might not meet Energy Star standards, which can cost homeowners substantial amounts of money over the course of a year. Homeowners who replace such appliances might be eligible for tax credits when buying more energy efficient products.

Addressing leaky doors and windows is an effective way that homeowners can cut energy costs around the house.

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March, 2015, 9

a new house of windsor

Montross man finds post-career business handcrafting chairs Richard Leggitt William Jenkins flew missions as a U.S. Air Force pilot in Vietnam and then flew as a pilot for United Air Lines for more than 30 years.

Today, the Westmoreland County native is leading a more down-toEarth life, crafting Windsor chairs that are in wide demand.

Jenkins, who grew up on a farm near Montross, came home to his family’s century-old farmhouse after he retired in 2001. He began a new career in woodworking after his wife, Lucylin, told him she wanted some comfortable dining chairs.

“We had some ladder-back chairs, very straight and very uncomfortable,” she said.

Jenkins, who had taken some woodworking classes when he went to Washington & Lee High School, went back to school to learn how to make the chairs.

“I talked to a number of woodworkers and went to a

conference in Williamsburg,” he said. “I went to New Hampshire for a five-day course on Windsor chairs with a woodworker named Mike Dunbar. I have continued to take courses at Dunbar’s Windsor Institute. There are so many types of Windsor chairs.”

Jenkins developed his craft and his brand – Locust Farm Windsors – but struggled with the marketing at first.

“I got some cards printed and put them in post offices,” Jenkins said.

“Nothing. Then I started going to farmers’ markets, arts shows and other places looking for ways to market chairs.”

Jenkins got his big break in 2005 when he got a call from a California film company asking him to make chairs for a Tom Hanks-produced mini-series “John Adams.”

“I eventually made 39 chairs for ‘John Adams’,” Jenkins said.

The mini-series, which was filmed in Virginia and first broadcast in 2008, wanted sack-

William Jenkins, a retired U.S. Air Force combat veteran and a former United Air Lines captain, has built a flourishing third career handcrafting Windsor chairs and settees.

Richard Leggitt

back Windsors – named because feed bags often were draped over the curved open backs in the winter — like those used by John Adams and the Continental Congress, as well as a special swivel Windsor with a writing arm that was designed by Thomas Jefferson.

Windsor chairs first were made in England near Windsor Castle, and British royalty made them

very popular. In America at the time of the Revolution, there were many different styles being crafted for the Founding Fathers and others in places like Philadelphia and Boston.

Jenkins, 73, works at least eight hours daily making chairs in an old dairy barn and an old smokehouse behind his home. He works alone using a lathe to help craft the

chairs out of white pine, red oak and maple.

“At my age, it is a good physical activity,” Jenkins said.

“But it is pretty much a one-man operation.”

Jenkins produces 50-plus chairs and settees per year. They sell for between $500 and $2,000 each.

“On average, it takes a week to make one,” he said.

He crafts at least 18 different styles and has a six-month backlog of orders from across the country and Europe.

“I’ve made chairs for people all over America, as well as England, Norway and Denmark,” he said.

It’s wonderful to build something that will last 200 years. “These chairs will make people happy, and they will enjoy using them for their lifetimes. As a pilot, there is nothing physical to show what you did. But the Windsors are a strong, enduring beauty that can be passed on from generation to generation.”

10, March 2015

26th annual home & craft show

Ways to outfit home with smart technology SVS Prime Satellite speakers, can produce big-time dynamics from a tiny cabinet so you can enjoy your favorite movies and music without the bulky audio equipment.

StatePoint Last year went down in history as the year smart home technology went mainstream. Rapidly evolving security, entertainment, cleaning and mobile technology have made smart home solutions more affordable and easier to integrate than ever before.

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Cleaning the garage used to be a pain, but smart home technology can make it quick and convenient.

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Investing in some smart home tech can make life less stressful.

26 annual home & craft show th

Home improvement trends are driving innovations in tools StatePoint

If you’ve hired a contractor to work on your home, you may not recognize the impact you had on trends and innovation in the home improvement industry.

For example, as more homeowners look for ways to become eco-friendly, a growing number of contractors are using newer material, such as “Green Insulation Technology,” a sustainable insulation alternative.

Likewise, design trends create a need for new tools. Indeed, one out of three tilers expects “stone-effect” to be the most popular tiling style within the next 12 months, according to a recent survey of 400 contractors conducted by Lab42. And

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As homeowners demands are met, more innovations in materials and tools are blossoming.

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12, March 2015

26th annual home & craft show

Location plays large role in home's value StatePoint It may seem like the size of your home is the be-all and endall of your home’s value. There are many other factors that come into play when determining the listing price of a particular home.

A new report offers some insights. The Coldwell Banker Home Listing Report, the most extensive home price comparison tool currently available in the country, ranks the average listing price of four-bedroom, twobathroom homes in nearly 2,000 markets across the country.

Analyzing more than 51,000 similar-sized listings, it addresses

how much a home in one market would cost if the same home were located somewhere else in the United States.

For example, the report reveals that for the price of the average home in Los Altos, Calif., you could purchase 30 similar-sized homes in Cleveland, Ohio, nine homes in Charlotte, N.C., eight homes in Chicago, five homes in Miami or two homes in Seattle.

Why are there such discrepancies?

“It’s amazing how much location impacts a home’s value,” says Coldwell Banker Real Estate consumer specialist Jessica Edwards.

“Typically, urban

markets are more expensive, while suburban and rural areas tend to be more affordable. However, many factors contribute to the average price of a home, such as commute time or proximity to the waterfront. The Home Listing Report is a helpful reference, so you can gauge how your area compares to other parts of the country.”

Local industry plays a role as well. In the case of Los Altos, which is ranked as the most expensive market in America, the continued success of many tech companies contributes to the boom.

This information can be useful,

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whether you’re planning to put your property on the market or you’re looking to relocate. For example, if you are scoping out a neighborhood where home prices are on the verge of increasing, area features to look out for include cultural institutions — such as art galleries and performance spaces — as well as such factors as unique architecture and proximity to mass transit and other trendy areas.

Edwards also recommends doing some quantitative research, including talking to your Realtor about how fast properties are selling in your area and whether business owners are investing in the neighborhood.

“Buying or selling a home is

a huge emotional and financial decision,” says Edwards. “By doing your homework beforehand, you will be able to take some of the uncertainty out of the process.”

Remember, while this information is very useful for homeowners and prospective home buyers, it’s by no means a replacement for a professional real estate agent who understands local conditions.

For more details about the report, or to see how your area stacks up, visit hlr.coldwellbanker. com.

For many people, a home is their biggest investment and largest asset. Be savvy and stay informed about the ins and outs of its value.

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Avoiding a home ownership nightmare the market is up or down. n Failure to get qualified beforehand. Mortgage qualification The dream of home ownership is essential when buying a home, is one that lives on in spite of the as it gives buyers preapproval for a global economic struggles. The loan before they make any offers. process of buying a home can be Making an offer on a home before an emotional roller coaster ride, you know what the bank is willing with feelings of excitement mixed to lend you is a waste of time for in with exhaustion, fear and everyone involved, including you, uncertainty. the seller and the real estate agents In the last several years, the real involved. Some agents will not estate market has been turned up- show a home if you don't have a side down, and many prospective preapproval. Once preapproved buyers have begun to question for a loan, don't take any steps some of the conventional wisdom that might put that approval in Home Generator Systems associated with buying a home. jeopardy. This includes anything While such skepticism might be that might drastically alter your a healthy attitude in the current credit score. market, prospective buyers -- parn Being blindsided by additicularly those who have never tional costs. First-time homebuypurchased a home before -- should ers, once they have moved into avoid the following mistakes that their home, often experience some HomeGenerator Generator Systems Systems Home Home Generator Systems buyers make regardless of whetherSystems sticker shock when the additional Home Generator Metro Creative Graphics

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expenses associated with home ownership arise. These additional expenses include property tax and insurance costs and can be substantial. Even those buying a condominium or co-op should expect monthly maintenance fees even if their new place is brand new and needs no maintenance. n Shooting for the moon. The ongoing recession is in part the result of predatory lending that saw banks grant excessive loans to applicants who, in hindsight, could not actually afford all that they were approved to borrow. The result was many people buying homes they could not afford, and then suffering some steep consequences, including foreclosure, when the first mortgage payment came due or the interest rate rose. First-time and even veteran buyers must avoid shooting for the moon when it comes to buying a home, and instead only buy one they know they can afford. What the banks says you can afford isn't always the same as what you know you can afford. Only buy a home you know you can afford, regardless of whether the bank has approved you for a larger loan. n Pigeonholing yourself into an inadequate living situation.

Just like buyers shouldn't go overboard, they also must avoid compromising on the things that are most important to them.

For example, many of today's buyers, fully aware of the rash of foreclosures and all the housing horror stories of the last several years, are reticent to commit to a home, and might compromise with a condo or co-op. But if a home is what you really want, and another living situation that mirrors apartment life is going to make you miserable, don't settle for that situation for the sake of security. Doing so could cost you financially, especially when you realize the situation isn't what you'd hoped for and look to sell earlier than is ideal. n Skimping on the cost of an inspector. An inspector is your last chance to find out if a home is your dream home or a money pit. Even if a house appears to be everything you want, don't close on the sale until the house has been thoroughly inspected. The old adage that advises against judging a book by its cover certainly applies to buying a home, and prospective buyers should enlist the services of a qualified inspector before closing on the sale of a home.

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Take precautions against bad weather cost and danger of inevitable power outages, it’s becoming increasingly Whether you like to hibernate important that every homeowner all winter or you enjoy hitting the consider a backup generator. Don’t slopes, don’t forget to be prepared be intimidated by the prospect of for power outages, especially this purchasing and using one. With a year, as the “Old Farmer’s Almanac,� bit of understanding and research, known for accurately forecasting you can find an easy-to-operate weather since 1792, is calling for unit that is right for you home. the “worst winter in years.�

Here are some things to consider This winter, hundreds of when seeking out a generator: thousands of homeowners learned • Know your needs. What devices the hard way about the importance you will need to power in the event of having immediate back-up of an outage? List running watts and power. As more people work from starting watts for each device, and home, power outages become more add them together to determine than an inconvenience, but an your total wattage requirements. economic impediment as well.

Additionally, determine which type In addition to weather-related of fuel you prefer and what your outages, the electrical grid has primary use will be.  been plagued by more and For example, generators are not worse blackouts in recent years, due just handy for home emergencies; to aging wires, pole transformers they can also be useful on camping and other lagging infrastructure. trips, for tailgating before the game In fact, non-disaster-related or for the job site. If you plan to outages affected at least 50,000 use your generator on trips, ease consumers last year. This, coupled of portability and flexibility is with increasingly volatile weather important. patterns and an increasing reliance • Quality. Above all, a generator on technology, create a perfect should offer durability, reliability, storm for outages. performance and security. For To mitigate the inconvenience, example, the Firman Platinum StatePoint

Series Generators powered by Kohler engines are known for these qualities and are offered at various price points. Their wheel barrow design provides ease of mobility, and the simple-to-operate control panel comes with outlet covers to protect against the elements.

Additionally, they are designed for quieter operation, making them ideal for use at home. These generators are sold at Home Depot and on Amazon. • Ease of operation. Features such as a pull cord, electric and/ or remote start, and durable tires for portability can make using a generator easy for anybody. • Don’t wait. You never know when you might need a generator.

And an emergency situation is not the right time to do your research and find one. For online resources, generator selection and a wattage calculator, visit www.

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Protecting your home, family and home business from power outages is crucial. Consider outfitting your home with a backup generator to stay comfortable, safe and connected no matter what.

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March, 2015, 15

Better curb appeal can make home stand out StatePoint

Boosting your home’s curb appeal can help it stand out. Whether your goal is to personalize the exterior for your own enjoyment or you have plans to sell and want to improve resale value, there is great worth in this pursuit.

To get started, take a logical top to bottom approach, and keep in mind the importance of texture, which can add personality and style to a home.

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and shake roofing tiles, which are resistant to hail, high winds, fire and other nasty conditions.

Brands like DaVinci Roofscapes are making it easier to get the right “top” accent for your home using these materials, as the company offers 50 different colors — from dark autumn to light green — and provides opportunities to create custom colors.

“Color personalizes every aspect of our lifestyles,” says Kate Smith, president and chief color maven of Sensational Color. “It makes complete sense for homeowners wanting to express themselves through the color of their roof.”

According to Smith, the color gray is expected to be a popular color choice this year for roofing,

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Trim Here are a few projects to consider in order to trim out your home with smooth or textured millwork: • Trim windows with crossheads over them and moulding on the sides and below.

• Use faux beams arranged lengthwise or in a criss-cross pattern to add dimension to porch ceilings.

• Add decorative columns in fluted square, serpentine, flat square or plain panel square shapes.

• Install a woodgrain trellis system to top off a garage door.

On these elements, as well as on other millwork such as shutters, porch rails and pilasters, use a variety of surface finishes to get a textured look that’s appealing.

Different textured millwork pieces are available ready-made from such brands as Fypon, which produces thousands of pieces of polyurethane millwork, moulding and trim in eight different textures like Sandstone, Tahoe Style Beams, Classic Woodgrain and Standard Woodgrain.

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“Adding a confident color to a front door can update any home scheme and create a joyful feeling every time someone comes through your entryway,” says Smith, who suggests selecting a paintable fiberglass door.

When shopping for a new door, look for clean lines and crisp angles that are ideal for painting, such as those from Therma-Tru Classic Craft Canvas Collection and Pulse.

Their fiberglass doors are practical, attractive and energy-efficient. Add texture by opting for a doorlite and sidelites flanking the door.

For more style tips for your home’s exterior, you can download the free FRESH Home Exterior Colors Guide, authored by Kate Smith and available at www. sensationalcolor.com.

If you want to make fresh eyecatching upgrades to the exterior of your house, seek out top-quality products that add texture and pizzazz.

16, March 2015

26th annual home & craft show

Upgrade fireplace to improve efficiency StatePoint Heating and cooling your home typically comprises nearly half of the average American’s utility bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Unfortunately, a portion of that expenditure is lost.

While most homeowners know that insulating, patching and weatherizing can reduce heat loss, there is one major energy eater in your home that you may not have considered -- that charming staple of dens, family rooms and anywhere people gather: the fireplace.

Traditional masonry style wood-burning fireplaces are a leading source of indoor air loss and draft, even more so than windows and doors.

“Traditional wood fireplaces have a lot of charm, but unfortunately, they can be inefficient even when they aren’t in use,” says Becky Scribner, brand director at Heat & Glo, a leading manufacturer of gas and wood fireplaces, stoves and inserts.

However, you don’t need to sacrifice your fire this winter to lower your bill -- in fact, it’s possible to convert your fireplace into an energy efficient heat source with the following tips:

• Don’t send your hard earned money up and out the chimney.

When your fireplace is not in use, make sure your chimney damper is closed. You may also install a flue sealer, which is an affordable,

inflatable stopper that fits below the damper to further seal off the chimney.

• Ensure your chimney and fireplace is inspected, maintained and cleaned annually. A contractor

can ensure the job is done safely and thoroughly.

• Add doors or a cover to the front of your fireplace to help reduce the draft and add a nice aesthetic.

• Consider a gas fireplace insert. In addition to lowering your energy bills and generating more radiant heat, they’re cleaner to maintain -- no ash, soot, or smoke -- and are low maintenance, turning on and off with the flip of a switch. Plus, a new insert like the Escape from Heat & Glo looks great and uses energy-saving firebox technology to increase efficiency. Learn more about the benefits of a gas fireplace insert at www.heatnglo. com/Rekindle.

• For those who love the smell, crackle and process of building a real fire, don’t despair. Pellet and EPA-certified wood inserts can be an easy, clean and efficient alternative as well.

In the pursuit of energyefficiency, don’t say goodbye to tradition. Instead, give your fireplace a much needed upgrade.

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March, 2015, 17

Turn your bathroom into a relaxing oasis StatePoint Time spent in the bathroom can be precious, as it may be your only solo time. When prioritizing home upgrades, consider first transforming a ho-hum, conventional bathroom into an oasis of comfort, style and ultimate relaxation.

Relax Replaceoutdatedfixtureswithnew top-quality options that offer greater functionality. Manufacturers such as Mansfield Plumbing, produce fixtures and fittings designed to work in tandem. Such “suites” of a toilet, sink and bathtub can improve the look of a bathroom setting.

In a toilet, there are certain features to seek. A SmartHeight toilet allows for easier access. For those who are environmentally conscious or looking for a pocketbook-friendly option, seek out a WaterSense rated toilet, signifying greater water conservation.

When it comes to relaxation, the bathtub is king. Luckily, manufacturers are innovating features to go beyond whirlpools.

New bathtub offerings include chromatherapy mood light systems, thermotherapy heated backrests and in-line heaters that keep water heated perfectly.

Explore your options at www.

Mansfieldplumbing.com.

Retreat Make your bathroom the perfect retreat from the rest of the house and the outside world with a few stylish accents that provide greater solitude. For example, privacy decorative glass windows and privacy acrylic block windows offered from Hy-Lite are design elements that don’t compromise natural light. Available in four designer frame colors, you can go beyond plain frosted glass with stylish windows that come either operable or fixed in place. Offered in varying shapes and sizes, it’s

easy to match windows to other bathroom elements, such as tiles and countertops. Full details are available at www.Hy-Lite.com.

Take your spa retreat a step further by piping music into your bathroom with humidity-resistant speakers unsusceptible to steamy showers and hot baths.

Beauty On a limited budget you can give the bathroom an elegant long-term facelift by investing in millwork products that resist humidity so you don’t experience warping. From crown moulding to trim around showers and bathtubs to ceiling medallions, polyurethane is a more practical material than traditional wood for these design elements.

It’s lightweight, easy to install, and most importantly, designed to resist the humidity of bathing.

To get the look of a luxury hotel, the experts at Fypon, which produce thousands of pieces of polyurethane millwork, moulding and trim in

a variety of architectural styles, recommend a few project ideas: • Install a set of pilasters on both sides of your shower stall and a door crosshead overhead to upgrade your bathroom’s look.

• Surround mirrors and decorative accent windows with painted or stained polyurethane mouldings that complement the room.

• Install chair rail moulding around the bathroom to add dimension. Paint above or below the moulding and use wallpaper, paneling or a different color paint in the other section.

While many think of the bathroom as a place to take care of necessary business, you can easily give yours an upgrade that will transform it into a whole lot more.

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Before you decide on a home improvement project, it’s a good idea to learn which ones will help raise your house’s value and recoup the most money when you decide to sell.

From replacing your front door to adding a deck, there are many midrange improvements that won’t cost a bundle but will deliver great bang for your buck. It’s not about spending the most money; it’s about improvements that best hold their value.

The experts at “Remodeling” magazine recently released their 28th annual Cost vs. Value Report, comparing construction costs with resale value for 36 of the most popular home improvement projects. When it came to midrange projects, the report found homeowners recouped the highest percentage of costs on these five improvements: steel entry door replacement, installation of manufactured stone veneer on home exteriors, garage door replacements, vinyl siding replacement, and wooden deck additions.

“Making your home stand out from others on your block and others on the market is achievable if you plan wisely when it comes to remodeling projects,” says Phil Wengerd, Vice President of Market Strategies at ProVia, a leading building products manufacturer.

“This year’s statistics indicate that moderately priced exterior projects can significantly enhance home resale values.”

This year’s analysis of top midrange home improvement

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projects provided definite direction for homeowners: • Steel Entry Door Replacement: The 20-Gauge Steel Entry Door has consistently delivered the best return on investment for resale, holding the top spot in the midrange product category since its debut in this report in 2009/2010. The steel entry door is the only project that, on a national basis, more than pays back its investment, typically recouping 101.8 percent. At ProVia, for example, the company’s Legacy Steel Entry Doors are a consistent top sales performer.

• Manufactured Stone Veneer: A new project on this year's report is the installation of manufactured stone veneer on home exteriors.

This category zoomed to the top of the midrange list, grabbing second place with a 92.2 percent cost-value return. Increased product demand for Heritage Stone is a reflection of this trend, observed by Wengerd and others.

• Garage Door Replacement: The installation of new foursection garage doors on galvanized steel tracks proved to be a valuable project with homeowners recouping 88.4 percent of their costs.

• Vinyl Siding Replacement: Replacing a home’s vinyl siding was one of a handful of projects that

jumped up the list for recouping improvement costs. So not only can new vinyl siding beautify a home, it can keep it weatherproof and enhance its resale value.

• Deck Addition: Adding a wooden deck can do more than provide a place to enjoy the great outdoors. When it comes time to sell, you should be able to pocket more than 80 percent of the cost

March, 2015, 19

for this improvement.

More resources on home improvement projects, along with information on entry doors, vinyl siding and manufactured stone veneer, can be found at www. proviaproducts.com/cvv.

Before you dip into your wallet, learn which home improvements will best hold their value while enhancing curb appeal.

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Keep tabs on what's happening in your home StatePoint Ignorance is not always bliss, as parents, pet owners and homeowners know all too well.

Whether you’re away on vacation and unsure if you left the lights on, at work and worried about the kids, or even sitting on your couch wondering what mischief the dog is up to in the yard, knowing what’s going on inside your entire home is crucial for peace of mind.

Instead of worrying, be proactive.

Several strategies, new and old, can help put your mind at ease.

Tried and True Trusted neighbors can serve as a second set of eyes when you’re not around. You can even take it one

step further and make them their own set of keys. If they’re friendly enough, your neighbors may even be willing to feed pets or help you out in other ways.

You can also rely on your kids for regular status reports (if they’re old enough). Have them call you when they get home safely and consider giving them some responsibilities, such as making sure the house is in order and your pets are safe and sound.

Technology Innovative technologies are providing consumers with new ways to keep an eye on their homes.

Such products have evolved and are now easier to use and more affordable for the average family.

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Indeed, brands like Panasonic are leading the charge. Their new Home Monitoring System offers four distinct kits, each of which bundles different surveillance products together.

Depending on your budget and required level of monitoring, you can outfit your home with tools like motion sensors, outdoor cameras and indoor cameras to monitor your baby or pet.

Keeping tabs on your home from near or far is easy, as the footage can be viewed on your computer monitor, smartphone or tablet.

In addition to surveillance, Panasonic’s technology may prove particularly advantageous to those

away from home, as it allows for remote control of home features like lighting and other appliances.

“Monitoring devices can provide peace of mind and minimize those lingering anxieties about being away from home,” says Lisa Knierim at Panasonic.

Professional Services Even when you’re home to keep track of things, it’s tough to handle everything on your own.

In certain cases, you may want to use professionals to help keep everything humming along.

If doors jam and fail to latch or you notice cracks in your walls or floors, you may want to call a

structural engineer to assess the strength of your foundation. Weeds encroaching on your prized tomato patch? Hire a gardener to fight off intruders or invasive species.

A professional heating and cooling service can assess the condition of your air conditioning and heating systems, including inside vents and ducts where you can’t see. The health of your home is important, and sometimes it’s better to go with the hired hand.

From trustworthy friends and cutting edge technology to knowledgeable professionals, the tools at your disposal can keep your finger on the pulse of your home.

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March, 2015, 21

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Replacing a roof is a costly venture few homeowners look forward to.

AccordingtoRemodelingmagazine's "Cost vs. Value" report, the national average cost of a roof replacement is nearly $22,000, a costly endeavor considering the tenuous nature of the economy. What's more, homeowners who choose more upscale roofing materials can expect to spend almost $40,000 on their roofs.

Such costs make it no small wonder that many homeowners fear the dreaded diagnosis that their home needs a new roof. While there's little homeowners can do to reduce the cost of a roof replacement, there are warning signs homeowners can look for that might indicate a

roof replacement is on the horizon.

Recognition of these signs can help homeowners be more financially prepared should the day come when the roof needs to be replaced. n The presence of algae If the roof has lots of dark streaks and stains clinging to it, that is likely algae, which can grow on the roof for quite awhile. Algae does not necessarily do any damage to a roof, but it does do some damage to a home's physical appearance, as algae on the roof is not very pleasing to the eye. Algae is most often found on the roofs of homes located in climates that have warm, humid summers. If algae is a problem on your roof, spray washing with a mixture of water and bleach can effectively remove it. n Buckling shingles Like algae, buckling shingles

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You can recycle cardboard and metal cans along with newspapers, plastic, glass and aluminum Recycling extends the life of the landfill, which means fees to King George County which means more dollars for County capital improvements!

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are another unsightly problem on a roof. But buckling shingles are more than just an eyesore, they actually might indicate significant problems. When shingles buckle, that's typically because hot air from the attic is forcing the shingles away from the home. Buckling shingles also indicate that the roof is poorly ventilated, which can take years off the roof's life expectancy while driving up home cooling costs along the way. n Granule loss Granule loss is typically a byproduct of normal shingle wear and tear that results from inclement weather, such as hail. Older roofs might experience granule loss, but granule loss can also occur on a new roof if a defective roofing product was used. Any granule loss, even if slight, should be addressed, as the side effects of granule loss include a weakened roof and leaking. If granule loss is not addressed, the consequences could be severe the next time a storm occurs. n Mold Unlike the warning signs already discussed, mold is not visible on the outside of the home. Instead, homeowners should look in the attic of a home to see if there is any mold growth. If there is, the roof is likely leaking, and the health risks of mold growth in a home are substantial.

Mold is not necessarily easy to detect, so a professional inspection might be in order if mold growth is suspected.

If a professional determines mold is, in fact, present, then the mold will need to be removed and all options, including a roof replacement, must be considered to keep mold from coming back. n Roof rot Perhaps the most discouraging sign a homeowner can see on his or her roof is roof rot. Roof rot appears when a roof is in considerable decay and, if not addressed, its consequences can stretch far beyond the roof, damaging other parts of the home thanks in large part to water getting through the roof. If roof rot is either not noticed or just ignored, it won't take long for water to get through the roof and blaze a destructive path through the rest of the home.

Homeowners might fear a full roof replacement because of the cost associated with such a project. But if ignored, problems with a roof could eventually prove far more costly than the price of replacing the roof.

22, March 2015

26th annual home & craft show

Use your space smarter, more efficiently Metro Creative Graphics Smarter use of existing space can transform a home into a more pleasant living area. Combining smaller rooms or areas, dividing larger rooms, finishing an attic or basement, converting one room into a year-round "indoor porch" — all are possible projects to improve your home's comfort level and value. And Woodcraft has a few suggestions about products that will help you work smarter and easier on your "space additions."

Working Safely "When working indoors, it is important to take steps to keep the air free of dust and debris for the health and safety of those breathing it," Woodcraft product manager Peter Collins said.

Collins suggests two products that will help manage air quality: n Oneida's 5-Gallon Molded Dust Deputy Kit works with a shop vacuum to capture 99 percent of the dust. n The Shop-Vac(R) Portable Air Cleaner keeps fine airborne dust from migrating all through the house when projects are

underway.

Transforming Spaces n For framing in a basement or attic space, the Kreg Jig(R) HD will speed up this otherwise complex and time-consuming project. The jig allows you to drill 25 percent larger holes to accept the larger HD pocket screws and to work with 2x material. n Fein's MultiMaster Start is a great tool for cutting, sanding or scraping, as well as hardwood floor repair or installation, paint removal, and refinishing. n The versatile Jorgensen ISD3 Expandable Clamp (6", 12", 18", 24" 36") can be used as a clamp, spreader, or a larger clamp (two clamps joined). n JessEm's Rout-R-Lift II Complete System will add speed and precision to a 3.5 diameter router motor for fabricating window frames and balusters and adding molding details. n A Kreg Rip-CutTM Circular Saw Guide and a circular saw make quick work of reducing large sheet goods to smaller panels for wainscoting a divider or hallway. n The Festool Domino XL Joiner DF700 makes it easy to

use mortise-and-tenon joinery for indoor/outdoor projects. n FastCap's 3rd Hand is a versatile helper for tasks like supporting crown molding during the nailing process.

Painting and Finishing n For surfaces that require fine finishes or paint, make the process easy and successful with the Earlex SprayStation Gemini(R) HVLP Spray System.

The Gemini offers two methods of application: a cup fed gun to spray a wide variety of finishes and paints and a pump that pushes water-based paint/stain directly from the can through a feeder hose into the gun for walls, fences and other large projects to eliminate frequent cup refills. n Protect exterior wood surfaces with OneTIMETM Wood Protector, a proprietary acrylate resin blend that penetrates wood to become part of the cellular structure and cures by exposure to UV radiation. Available in natural and five colors, it is guaranteed to protect new wood, old wood, pressure-treated wood, or wood that has had the previous coating removed for seven years.

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26 annual home & craft show th

March, 2015, 23

Ways to affordably upgrade your kitchen StatePoint You may not get paid for your culinary efforts at home, but you can still treat yourself to a professionally outfitted kitchen. If the idea of financing this upgrade has held you back in the past, consider different options that can help you affordably transform your ordinary space into the kitchen of your dreams.

Amazing Countertops If you’ve longed for luxury granite countertops, consider quartz, which offers the same beauty as granite at a fraction of the cost. Since quartz is a durable, non-porous material, countertops will be easy to clean and maintain over time, and resistant to the nicks and stains caused by everyday wear and tear, making it a sound long-term investment. Quartz is available in a variety of colors and patterns, and by investigating your options you can get the look and feel that complements your kitchen.

Professional Range To ensure you’re never limited

as a cook, start by upgrading your cooking appliances, which are at the heart of any kitchen. One versatile range option that delivers top-ofthe-line professional performance at a consumer-friendly price is the Verona Dual Fuel or all gas range, available in 24, 30 and 36 inch sizes.

Sealed burners pack plenty of BTU power, delivering pinpoint accuracy and flame control for optimal heat transfer. As a result, foods cook quickly and evenly with less fuel than standard burners.

Verona ranges are equipped with full-width storage compartments, as well as European convection ovens that circulate heated air for more consistent temperature, allowing you to prepare your meals faster than with a conventional oven.

Inspired by professional-style Italian design, Verona ranges can be tailored to suit your kitchen décor, with custom options such as round oven handles, island trims and brilliant colors. Whether you prefer the professional look of stainless steel or a bolder palette such as burgundy, white, antique white or matte black,

make your kitchen pop both visually and functionally with the right prostyle range. More information can be found at http://veronaappliances. com.

Task Lighting Task lighting can be a gorgeous, functional addition to any kitchen.

And these days, beautiful fixtures can be purchased at any price point and come in a number of styles, both traditional and contemporary, making it easy to add flair and style to your kitchen in a way that meets your taste. In addition to your ambient lighting, consider installing a row of task lights over your kitchen island, above your sink, and in or other key areas where you do the most cooking prep -- after all, this is how the pros do it.

Equipping your kitchen with the functionality and beauty that a professional chef enjoys does not need to break the bank. Operating with a conservative budget, you can make long-lasting improvements to your kitchen that are stunning, functional and affordable.

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