Northwest Arkansas Blog

Watering the Yard

Progress Paradox — 2008-06-30T23:16:00Z

Running a sprinkler for two hours can use up to 500 gallons of water. To figure out the right amount to water, put an empty tuna can on your lawn. When it’s full, you’ve watered about the right amount.

Lawncare for the Summer

Progress Paradox — 2008-06-22T23:13:00Z

It’s finally time to pull out the patio furniture, fire up the grill and enjoy outdoor activities in your yard. Here are some tips from HGTV.com that will keep your grass looking green all summer long.

When cutting the grass, try to keep its height at about two-and-a-half to three inches. Sharpen the blade of your mower at least three times a year to avoid grass split ends, and be sure to change your mowing pattern to prevent soil compaction, which will inhibit grass growth. I

nstead of lightly watering your grass three to four times a week, give it a good soaking once a week – most lawns need about an inch of water. Watering early in the morning is best.

To combat weeds, make sure to use herbicides specially formulated to combat the types of weeds that are growing in your yard. If you aren’t a fan of herbicides, weed removal tools, such as weed hounds, usually do the trick.

Over-fertilizing is a common problem and can kill your lawn. You should only fertilize in the spring and summer months if you neglected to apply fertilizer in the fall. Every time you mow your lawn the clippings provide nitrogen, an excellent natural fertilizer.

Finally, keep kids, pets, vehicles and wheelbarrows off moist soil and emerging grass. Wait until your lawn is full and dry to enjoy it.

Look Carefully at the Home You are Viewing

Progress Paradox — 2008-06-15T23:09:00Z

Frontdoor.com, HGTV’s real estate Web site, identifies several potential problems that buyers should look out for when touring a home.

Mediocre Maintenance. Three layers of roofing and gutters with plants growing out of them are signs that the owners have not kept up with the property. What else have they neglected?

Foundation Failures. If the yard slopes toward the house, it could cause water to run down the foundation walls or into the basement, which could result in costly repairs. Also if foundation cracks or bulges are thicker than 1/3 inch, the house could have serious structural issues.

Faulty Wiring. Make sure all switches and outlets function properly. Flickering lights, circuits that don’t work, and warm or hot outlets or faceplates are all symptoms of wiring problems.

Fresh Paint …On One Wall. New paint can spruce up walls, but they can also hide bigger problems, such as water damage, mildew or mold.

Foggy or Non-functioning Windows. Check for water in between double-paned windows and make sure all windows work properly.

Structural Walls and Floors. The house may have an open floor plan, but was it always open or did the homeowners renovate? If a load-bearing wall was removed without adjusting the framing, it can shift weight to other parts of the house.

Bugs. No one wants a house with a pest problem. Look for evidence of unwelcome creatures as you tour the home.

Exterior Lighting

Progress Paradox — 2008-06-09T23:05:00Z

If you’re looking to spice up the outside appearance of your home, exterior lighting offers many options. To get you started, the lighting pros at GE explain some basic lighting techniques. Ambient lighting, such as yard lights and porch lights, provide overall illumination, while task lighting consists of low-voltage lights along sidewalks and paths.

Accent lighting includes spotlights and other types of special-effect lighting to dramatize outdoor sculptures and fountains. To add depth and drama, try uplighting trees, landscape features and architectural elements by placing lights at an angle so objects are lit from below.

Backlighting, which is achieved by angling a light against a wall or fence behind an object, creates a beautiful silhouette.

For security, make sure patios, porches and other outdoor living spaces are well lit, especially where there are steps that can be a potential tripping hazard.

To prevent uninvited pests from crashing your next patio party, use bug lights, which contain a special coating that makes the light invisible to bugs, so they aren’t drawn to it.

Whichever lighting technique you use, use Energy Star bulbs, which use up to 75 percent less energy and last 8 to 10 times longer than ordinary incandescent bulbs.

Outdoor timers and motion sensors also can save money and conserve energy. To get maximum effect from your outdoor lighting, clean exposed bulbs several times during the season.

Once you master these few lighting techniques, your home will exude a warm glow that attracts admirers and would-be buyers.

Brighten Outside Bulbs

Progress Paradox — 2008-06-03T22:50:00Z

Dirt and dust build-up on exterior light bulbs can cause light loss of up to 40 percent.

Source: GELighting.com

Choosing the Right Ceiling Fan

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-26T22:32:00Z

If you’re looking to stay cool and save on energy bills this summer, look up. A good ceiling fan, when properly used and maintained, can help keep your cooling and heating costs down throughout the year.

To reap the maximum benefits — in comfort level and savings — it’s important to make sure that ceiling fans are properly installed and that you use the right size and model for the room. Consider ceiling fan blade spans, which range from 29 to 54 inches, and room size, and be sure that the fan is mounted in the middle of the room, at least 7 feet above the floor and 18 inches from the walls. Other performance factors to consider include the motor type and grade (performance, medium or economy), and the blades’ pitch and material. The fans with the best blade and motor designs are most efficient and quieter as well.

Look for models with the highest air flow efficiency, which is measured by cubic feet per minute per watt (CFM/watt) at each speed. An Energy Star-rated fan is 50 percent more efficient than a conventional fan and can save $10 or more annually on utility bills. If this doesn’t seem like much, consider the additional savings that come from adjusting the thermostat accordingly and keeping air conditioner (or heater) use to a minimum. Ceiling fans keep people cool, not the spaces they’re in, so be sure to turn off the fan when not in a room.

In the summer, make sure the fan is moving in a counter-clockwise direction so that it produces the downward windchill effect; in the winter, reverse the direction and use the fan at a low speed to force the warm air near the ceiling up and then down along the walls and floor. And don’t forget about the lights. Most ceiling fans include some kind of light fixture, which is often used as the main light source in a room. Be sure to use an energy-efficient light kit and to turn it off when a room is empty.

Source: www.energystar.gov

Water Conservation

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-22T22:22:00Z

Pools, sprinklers, hoses — there are many ways to use water outdoors in the summertime, and there are also countless and easy ways to conserve it. Check out the following tips for developing good H2O habits:

Water your lawn only when necessary; if you leave footprints when you walk across it, it’s time to water (usually once every three days).

Minimize evaporation by watering your lawn during the early morning hours, when temperatures are cooler and winds are lighter.

Divide your watering cycle into shorter periods to reduce runoff and allow for better absorption.

Periodically check your pool for leaks if you have an automatic refilling device.

Weed your lawn and garden regularly; weeds compete with other plants for nutrients, light and water.

When the kids want to cool off, use the sprinkler in an area where your lawn needs it most. • Use sprinklers that throw big drops of water close to the ground.

Use a hose nozzle and turn off the water while you wash your car — you’ll save more than 100 gallons.

Use a screwdriver as a probe to test soil moisture; if it goes in easily, don’t water.

Use a grease pencil to mark the water level of your pool, and check the mark 24 hours later; your pool should lose no more than 1/4 inch each day.

Check your sprinkler system frequently and adjust sprinklers so that only the lawn (not the house, sidewalk or street) is watered.

Source: www.wateruseitwisely.com

Ceiling Fans

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-18T22:20:00Z

Figure out how much you might save by using an Energy Star fan at www.energystar.gov. Click the “heating and cooling” link through to ceiling fans, where you’ll find a Savings Calculator worksheet as well as lists of energy-efficient fans.

Bikes, Blues, & BBQ

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-13T03:03:00Z

The 2008 dates for Bikes, Blues, & BBQ are set for September 24th - 27th. The event which continues to grow year after year is now on the 2008 Major Rallies list. It is anticipated that the event could host over 500,000 in the next few years if allowed to use additional streets and vendor space. Check out the Bikes, Blues, & BBQ website at www.bikesbluesandbbq.org and make your comments here on Northwest Arkansas Blog about the upcoming 2008 event.

Real Estate Agents Disappearing in Northwest Arkansas

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-11T20:41:00Z

According to the Arkansas REALTORS Association, the number of licensed agents dropped 11.79% from April 2007 to April 2008. Currently there are 2,170 REALTORS in Northwest Arkansas. The area lost 12.89% of the REALTORS in the Metro Board, 13.78% of the REALTORS in the Rogers Board, and gained 16.13% more REALTORS in the Bentonville-Bella Vista Board.

Keep Windows/Doors Opening Smoothly

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-10T22:19:00Z

You can rub a candle or bar of soap along the tracks of windows and sliding glass doors to keep them opening smoothly.

Buyers on Passion (Entry 3 on Passion)

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-09T02:45:00Z

People are impulsive. We all make quick decisions. Why is it that we want things that we can never really use. My garage is so full of things/toys that I can no longer park a car in either side. I read one time that 70 percent of home fitness systems get used less than 5 times a year. We confuse needs and wants all the time. It is not that we need something, but we want it, and we want it right now.

We buy based on our passion for something. Many times that passion is borrowed from another. Someone we know, respect, or envy buys or has something that they seem (in our minds) to really enjoy, and all of the sudden we also need it. People all over the world bought a salad shooter. How many people still use this symbolism of laziness. Can you imagine the manufacture in China who made the majority of the salad shooters? They must have wondered who in the world was buying them. In was way beyond a fad, it was the answer to the years Mother's Day gift, the perfect Christmas gift, and it helped so many people feel like they could save time making dinner. In reality, they were hard to clean, you had to cut up the salad to put it int the salad shooter, and cutting up the salad was the whole purpose in the beginning. In short, the passion for the salad shooter quickly faded.

So often we buy something because we feel that we need it, we have a passion for owning something that we do not have that someone else already owns. The passion is strong all the way up till we own it, then quickly the passion fades. Do you remember your last new car? How exciting it was when you first got it, but soon you were drinking milk shakes and eating fries while driving, and when you dropped one it didn't even matter. The new wears off, or better stated...the passion faded.

Beware of your passion, it will lead you in directions that you were not intending. Follow your passion and you will find yourself with things not needed. But without passion, life would be dull...so go ahead and travel the road less traveled...follow your passion.

Sales People on Passion (Entry 2 on Passion)

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-04T23:14:00Z

People that sell for a living have learned the art of passion. Most of them were never taught to sell with their passion, but they learned it through trial and error. The interesting part of passion selling includes the knowledge that you do not have to believe in the product to be passionate about selling the product. Sales people are motivated by the invigoration of the close. They are taught from the beginning to ABC or Always Be Closing. The more you sell the more you learn to articulate, insinuate, and exaggerate at the appropriate moments to increase the opportunity for a closed sale.

Knowing that people will naturally follow someone with passion, the sales person can take advantage of the appearance of passion for a product, that may really be a passion for selling the product. When people are passionate their vocal tones change, their facial expressions are different, that seem more believable. When someone is believable the closing rate will more than double. The buyers barometer for believability is often their personal interpretation of the passion demonstrated by the sales person. Great sales people could be considered artist of passion. They listen carefully to their buyer, they interpret the reactions to comments made, and they adapt quickly to be more convincing.

Next time you meet a great sales person, engage them in a conversation about something you know they like, and listen to how convincing they are, but be careful, you might find yourself taking a vacation to a location you never knew existed, or investing in a product that you know nothing about, or possibly watching a television show that you had never heard of before you engaged this sales person of passion. They are passion professionals, and many great businesses rest on their backs.

Great Leaders On Passion (Entry 1 on Passion)

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-04T02:31:00Z

Most recently it has occurred to me that people follow passion more than personality. I lived for many years under this misguided feeling that great leaders had the right personality. While watching some of the top executives over the past few months, it became apparent that many of these executives have no personality at all, but they have passion.

Passion is addictive, when someone really believes in something they are not only convincing in their speech, but they draw others along for the ride. Successful leaders have this attraction, when they believe in their company, believe in their employees, or believe in their product they attract others to the same belief.

Unfortunately, people follow misled passion as quickly as they follow well directed passion. Not many days pass before a news story caries a blip on a group of people who have cultishly started following an individual to their own harm. Everyone seems to want to believe in something, even if they have to borrow their belief from someone who already has passion for something they have not yet thought. The hectic life that many people live, does not afford them the time to have genuine new thoughts, therefore, they take the thoughts of the passionate people that surround them.

Thus to be a great leader, do more than learn the tricks of the trade, find something to have passion about, and allow people to follow you. While finding your passion, make sure you are well directed by the core beliefs and values that you find important in your life and to this world. Your Passion Perspective will guide you in directions, and it could also guide others in your direction. Determine carefully what you want of those that look up to you, and where you want them to go in this world. Their perspective of you may be based on your passion.

Northwest Arkansas Real Estate Steady and Growing

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-04T02:06:00Z

After a year of a market that was not living up to our expectations, the builders have slowed the new starts, and the growth has remained steady. Although it would be helpful to see even less new starts by builders, the slowing of new product hitting the market has allowed the steady growth in Northwest Arkansas to gain some momentum against the surplus of housing.

With consistent growth in Wal-mart, a new minor league baseball team, and loud rumors of a drag racing track coming in the near future, real estate continues to look better. No doubt the negative comments are still out there, home sellers would like buyers to move a little faster, and real estate agents would appreciate more sales; All-in-all the Northwest Arkansas real estate market does not appear to be getting anything but better.

In the past 14 days I have noticed a dramatic increase in the new contracts on higher priced homes (over $300,000). There are consistent sales of homes priced between $175,000-$225,000, as a matter of fact, daily sales within this price range. For those hoping to sell their currently listed home, every day offers a new opportunity. It is now, more than ever, important to price a home correctly with the market, and make sure that your home is in perfect condition. Buyers have choices, and typically they will choose location first, price second, and condition third. Some buyers will rearrange the order a bit, but the average buyer will follow this pattern.

So remember, we live in one of the greatest places in America (OK the World), and a temporary change in the real estate market is nothing more than an opportunity to find a dream home at the right price.

Caring for Trees

Progress Paradox — 2008-05-03T22:15:00Z

Aside from their beauty, trees provide many significant benefits to homes, streets and cities. They keep the air supply fresh, provide shade and shelter, and minimize noise pollution. They can also increase the value of your property by up to 25 percent. Professional tree appraisers can determine the dollar value of your trees and plants by evaluating their size, type, condition and location. But regular care is what’s ultimately more cost-effective and important in maintaining and protecting the value of trees.

Proper tree maintenance involves pruning, watering, mulching, pest management and, sometimes, removal. Inspect your trees for signs of disease or insect damage as well as potential hazards, such as large dead or detached branches, mushrooms at the base of the tree, and proximity to utility lines.

When you need professional help, be sure to find a certified arborist with a reputable tree care company. You can start by looking in the Yellow Pages, but remember that some of the most highly regarded companies rely more on word-of-mouth marketing. Seek recommendations from neighbors and friends, make calls to several companies and interview each one. Before you hire a company, ask for copies of valid and current insurance certificates and get a detailed written estimate of the work needed and costs. Also be sure to get a complete diagnosis before a tree is cut down. Beware of companies that solicit work door to door, demand payment in advance or advertise topping — a harmful practice of cutting back a tree’s crown. Sources: Tree Care Industry Association

(www.tcia.org); International Society of Arboriculture (www.treesaregood.org)

Flood Protection

Progress Paradox — 2008-04-19T22:12:00Z

With springtime comes the potential for storms and heavy rain. While you can’t control the weather, you can protect your home from flooding.

First, make sure gutters are free of leaves and dirt, and secure them tightly to your home. Poor roof drainage is the number one cause of basement leaks, and clogged gutters can create further problems by causing water to run off too close to the home’s foundation where it can seep through the walls.

Check the downspouts, which should dump water at least three to four feet from your home’s perimeter. If the downspouts are too close to the house, adding extensions can help drain the water properly. The general rule of thumb is to have one downspout for every 600 feet to 800 feet of roofing.

Watch the grading around your home. Beyond the first four feet of the home’s perimeter, the ground should slope about six inches. To improve the grading, use clean fill dirt rather than top soil, which holds more water and can seep into the foundation.

Gardens also retain water, so if your garden is planted next to your home, allow some room for water to escape. Use rocks as a border and trim heavy growths of shrubbery to allow more sunlight to dry the ground more quickly. Also make sure the gutter doesn’t run directly onto the garden.

Herb Garden

Progress Paradox — 2008-04-05T22:02:00Z

Cultivating your own herb garden is an easy and cost-effective way to have access to fresh herbs without a trip to the grocery store. Basil, parsley, chives, mint and sage are easy to grow and maintain. Gardening experts at HGTV say the least expensive method is to start new plants from seeds, as opposed to transplanting store-bought or garden-grown herb plants. First, fill a peat pot with a soilless potting mix, a mixture of peat moss, pine bark, sand and other organic materials. Place this pot in a small bowl filled with water. After the water has completely saturated the peat pot, bury seeds at the depth of three to four times their diameter; for small seeds, simply press them into the mixture with your finger. To ensure growth, place a few seeds in each pot. Finally, put a plastic bag over the pot, to simulate a greenhouse, and place it in a dry sunny spot. After the seeds have germinated you can transplant them into a larger pot. Keep your herbs moist but not wet, and pinch or prune them as necessary.

Spring Cleaning

Progress Paradox — 2008-04-01T22:06:00Z

Spring is here, which means it’s time to organize, de-clutter, clean and toss out. Use these hints, courtesy of HGTV, to help jump start your spring cleaning. Before the Scrubbing:

Remove any clutter around the house.

Tackle the junk drawer. Throw out old pens and markers, broken rubber bands and paper clips, old candy, and any random scraps of paper.

Donate books you don’t wish to keep and clothes that you don’t wear. Many churches, schools, libraries, shelters and hospitals accept such donations.

Put everything that you can’t quite part with in a box. After six months, throw away or donate any of the items you haven’t used.

Clean out your medicine cabinet, dumping any prescriptions, lotions, makeup or other products that have expired.

Pitch old magazines. Keep a binder for your favorite articles or recipes.

Deep Down Clean Vacuum your mattress and wash your mattress pad in hot water.

Rub shaving cream into dirty upholstery and vacuum once it’s dry.

Run drapes through the air-fluff cycle in the dryer, along with a wet cloth to attract dust, for 15 minutes.

Rub screens on both sides with kerosene, then wash them clean with soap and water.

Use a dry sponge to clean lamp shades, upholstery, computer screens, suede and leather.

Make sure to clean the coils underneath the refrigerator and the screen in your stove’s exhaust hood.

Remodeling Tips

Progress Paradox — 2008-03-22T21:57:00Z

You know that remodeling can add value to a home, but how do you know what rooms are worth remodeling, how much to spend and how to prevent your project from getting out of hand?

First, think about design and function, and distinguish between your wants and your needs — do you want to refresh your space to help you sell your home or do you want to create your dream room in the house you’re thinking of buying? Your goals for the project will set the parameters of your budget.

Room size, floor plan, product choices and amount of required labor affect the cost of a project. Kitchens, for example, can range from $5,000 to $50,000. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry recommends saving 10 percent to 20 percent of your budget for unforeseen costs. Be ready to make compromises here and there and plan to do some of the work yourself if you’re hoping to keep costs down.

There are various ways to finance a remodeling project, and many professional remodeling contractors are familiar with available financing options. Be sure to research funding sources carefully and compare qualification guidelines, interest rates, terms and tax considerations.

Finally, make sure you have a thorough and clearly written contract. It should include specific details about what the contractor will and will not do; a detailed list of materials for the project; approximate start and completion dates; total price, payment schedule and cancellation policy; and a minimum one-year warranty.

Sources: Kitchens.com; National Association of the Remodeling Industry (www.nari.org)

Broom Handles

Progress Paradox — 2008-03-15T21:59:00Z

Cut the finger off an old rubber glove and slide it over the handle of long-handled tools and brooms. This prevents them from slipping when you prop them against a wall while working.

Preparing for Spring Cleaning

Progress Paradox — 2008-03-13T21:50:00Z

Spring has sprung and so have all the dust bunnies in your home. Now it’s time to bring in the professionals for a clean sweep. Whether you need a professional to come in and do a one-time, big clean or you are looking for a more regular solution to household dust and dirt, it’s important to find a reputable service provider and to communicate your needs and expectations up front.

Asking friends or neighbors for cleaning-service recommendations is the best way to start the process. Consider whether you want to use a cleaning service or an individual housecleaner. Call several prospective cleaners and ask them about experience, rates and availability, and if they’re bonded and insured. Find out if the people who will be coming through are employees or private contractors and if they bring their own cleaning supplies. For regular services, find out if it will be the same crew every time.

Once you’ve selected someone, it’s a good idea to meet in your home and walk the cleaners through the house, pointing out places you want cleaned and asking specific questions, such as, “How would you remove these stains from my carpet?” or “What do you use to clean hardwood floors?”

Be sure to determine the day and time the cleaners will come and how long they expect the cleaning to take. Ask how service complaints are handled. And make sure to get everything in writing.

Home Security

Progress Paradox — 2008-03-10T21:53:00Z

Spring break should be a relaxing time, especially if you’re planning to go on vacation. But preparing your home for your departure can be stressful. Whether you’re leaving home for a week or a month, you can rest easy with these tips for keeping your home safe while you’re away:

Arrange for someone to do seasonal maintenance, such as mowing, raking or snow removal.

Have mail or packages picked up by a friend, forwarded or held by the post office.

Stop newspaper deliveries and ask a neighbor to pick up freebie newspapers and circulars.

Lower your telephone ringer (and answering machine volume) and never leave an outgoing message that says you’re away.

Use timers to turn lights off and on at the appropriate times. Compensate for having lights on when no one’s home by turning off other appliances that are often left on, such as DVD players, computers and microwaves. Also consider connecting a radio to a timer.

Leave blinds open in their usual position.

If you live in a cold climate, keep the heat on just enough so that the pipes don’t freeze. • Ask neighbors to park their car in your driveway.

If you leave your car in the driveway, be sure to remove the garage-door opener from plain view.

Double-check all doors and window locks.

Tell a trusted friend or neighbor where you’ll be.

Sources: Travelocity.com; Tripso.com; Insurance Information Institute Sources: Travelocity.com; Tripso.com; Insurance Information Institute

Best Remodeling Returns

Progress Paradox — 2008-03-08T21:46:00Z

According to Remodeling magazine’s 20th annual Cost vs. Value Report, the top five midrange home improvements that bring the greatest returns are: a wood deck addition (85.4 percent); siding replacement (83.2 percent); minor kitchen remodel (83 percent); wood window replacement (81.2 percent); and vinyl window replacement (79.3 percent). For more information, go to www.costvsvalue.com .

Color Establishes Mood

Progress Paradox — 2008-02-24T21:38:00Z

Have you ever walked into a room and felt an immediate sense of calm, or felt energized and cheerful? Research has shown that color can affect your mood, appetite and energy.

Warm colors, like red, orange and yellow, evoke images associated with heat, such as sunlight and fire. Cool colors, such as blue, green and violet, are associated with landscapes and the ocean. The experts from the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute say knowing how colors affect you can help you determine which colors are best for your home.

Red produces feelings of energy, passion and intimacy. It can raise your heart rate and blood pressure. Because it also stimulates the appetite, it’s a good choice for dining rooms.

Orange also warms a room but with less drama. It’s more friendly and welcoming than its fiery cousin. Orange works well in living rooms and family rooms as well as children’s bedrooms.

Yellow grabs attention and can lift one’s mood. It helps light up a poorly lit foyer or hallway. But yellow that is too bright or too strong can also create anxiety in infants, young children or the elderly.

Blue soothes and relaxes, so it’s an ideal bedroom color choice for adults and children. It also suppresses the appetite, which is why you’ll rarely see it in the kitchen or dining room.

Green is often associated with nature and is at home anywhere in the house. Light greens work well in baths and living rooms, and mid-range greens are a great accent for kitchens and dining rooms.

Violet gets a favorable response from children, but not from adults. Children’s bedrooms and play areas may be the best places to experiment with this color family.

Save on Home Insurance

Progress Paradox — 2008-02-17T21:33:00Z

Not all homeowners’ insurance policies are created equal. While most policies cover property, liability and loss of use, they don’t all cost the same. InsWeb, an online insurance resource, suggests several ways homeowners can save on their insurance premiums.

Shop around. By comparing coverage and rates from several carriers, you’ll know if you’re getting the best deal.

Look for multi-policy discounts. Does your auto insurance company also provide home insurance? Many insurance providers will offer their customers discounts for buying more than one product.

Only buy the coverage you need. If you don’t live in a flood-prone area, for example, you may not need costly flood insurance.

Review your insurance policy limits once a year. Update your home inventory and notify your agent of any major purchases or additions to your home. Also keep in mind that many insured possessions depreciate over time. As you update your inventory, the value of your possessions could mean more or less coverage.

Consider raising your deductible. Increasing your deductible by a few hundred dollars can reduce your monthly premium.

Look for homeowner discounts. If your home has safety features such as dead-bolt locks, fire extinguishers, an alarm system, and smoke detectors, you may be able to get a lower premium. Some insurers also offer discounts to homeowners over age 55 and to smoke-free households.

With the money you save, just think what you can do to increase the value of your home.

Personal Item Inventory for Fire

Progress Paradox — 2008-02-11T21:26:00Z

According to the Insurance Information Institute, in the event of a fire or other disaster, a current, detailed home inventory can help you obtain enough insurance to replace the things you own, get claims settled faster, and substantiate any losses on your tax return.

Electrical Fires

Progress Paradox — 2008-02-10T21:23:00Z

Nearly 30 percent of home electrical-wiring fires can be traced to the misuse of electric cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance and running the cords under rugs or through high traffic areas.

Source: InsWeb.com

Closet Clean-up

Progress Paradox — 2008-02-04T18:28:00Z

Professional experts say we wear only 20 percent of our clothes 80 percent of the time, which means much of what’s in our closet is rarely used. If you have to dig through or climb over mounds of clothes to find what you’re looking for, it may be time to clear out and reorganize. Here are some suggestions from closet design pros.

Empty the closet of everything, so you can see what you have. Then sort your clothes into three piles: keep, toss and donate. If you have a hard time discarding items, have a friend help you or hire a professional organizer.

Keep the items you wear often. Toss the items that are ripped, stained or damaged. If you haven’t worn something in at least a year and it’s still wearable, donate it. Donating items to your favorite charity not only makes you feel good, it might get you a tax break.

Remove the discarded items immediately so you won’t be tempted to put them back in the closet.

Sort the remaining clothes by type (dresses, slacks, shirts, etc.). It might also help to sort by color and by how often you wear things.

Scrub the inside of the closet with soap and water. Then install shelves, racks and containers to organize the remaining clothes, so all similar items are stored together.

Once your closets are neat and organized, you won’t mind if anyone asks to peak inside.

WD-40

Progress Paradox — 2008-01-19T21:02:00Z

Familiar household product WD-40 has more than 2,000 uses, including cleaning stainless steel appliances, keeping metal wire screens rust-free, removing grime from tile-floor grout and more.

Energy Efficent Financing

Progress Paradox — 2008-01-11T21:59:00Z

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Energy Efficient Mortgages Program helps homebuyers and homeowners save money on utility bills by enabling them to finance the cost of adding energy-efficient features to new or existing homes as part of their FHA-insured home purchase or refinancing mortgage. Source: www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/eem/energy-r.cfm

Feng Shui

Progress Paradox — 2008-01-08T18:52:00Z

Done right, a bathroom can be a quick escape from the rush and stress of everyday life. And turning this room into an urban oasis doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. If you’re starting from scratch or remodeling a bathroom, the design experts at HGTV suggest a flowing floor plan that blends from one area to the next. You may even want to consider the principles of feng shui, the Chinese art of placement, which focuses on creating a positive flow of energy in the home. While sections may be distinct, the bathroom should not feel divided. Ideally, the bathtub should be placed near a window so you can peer out into nature while soaking in the tub. The view looking in and out of the bathroom should be appealing, and the toilet area should be kept hidden from the doorway. Other suggestions include using neutral colors such as sand, taupe, brown, gray, sea green and black for a feeling of serenity. The materials you use in your bathroom should balance the five elements of fire, earth, water, metal and air. Blend copper faucets and stone sinks with airy rice paper screens. Bamboo laminate countertops and teak wood add a touch of Zen and don’t require major remodeling. In fact, you can simply add a teak stool to the shower and teak floor mats outside the tub.

Fire Prevention Tips

Progress Paradox — 2008-01-05T00:05:00Z

As the weather outside gets frightful in some parts of the country, heading indoors sounds delightful. But staying warm inside is not without its hazards. According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during December, January and February. Portable and space heaters can be especially dangerous. To make sure you and your family stay safe and warm this winter, consider these tips from NFPA:

When buying a new space heater, make sure it carries the mark of an independent testing laboratory and is legal for use in your community.

Plug your electric-powered space heater into an outlet with sufficient capacity — never into an extension cord.

Use the proper grade of the proper fuel for your liquid-fueled space heater, and never use gasoline in any heater not approved for gasoline use. Refuel only in a well-ventilated area and when the equipment is cool.

Turn off space heaters in unoccupied rooms and when you go to bed; portable space heaters are easy to knock over in the dark.

Do not use your oven to heat your home.

Make sure fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside, that the venting is kept clear and unobstructed and that the exit point is properly sealed around the vent. All of these measures keep deadly carbon monoxide from building up in the home.

Test smoke alarms monthly; install a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area.

Inspect all heating equipment annually and clean as necessary.

Fire Power

Progress Paradox — 2008-01-03T22:29:00Z

Fireplaces have irresistible appeal. Just picturing a fireplace conjures feelings of warmth and coziness. Even in warmer climates where people don’t rely on them for heat, fireplaces add charm, character and value — about $12,000 per fireplace, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® — to homes. They lend ambiance to just about any room, and with so many varieties and options available, it’s easy to see why people want them. If you don’t have a fireplace in your home, it’s easier than you might think to add one — without undergoing a complete remodel or major construction. Gas and electric models are more popular and affordable than ever and easy to install. And with so many options for every space and budget, the hardest part is choosing one that best suits your needs. If you do have a fireplace in your home, whether it’s the wood-burning, gas or electric variety, the most important factor is maintenance. Like cars, fireplaces need annual tune-ups. if you have a chimney-based fireplace — traditional wood-burning or top-vent gas — you should have a certified chimney sweep inspect and clean the chimney at least once a year or after approximately 80 fires. It’s also a good idea to have a certified service technician come out once a year to inspect other types of gas fireplaces and to replace bulbs on electric units.

Real Estate Bargains

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-05T18:28:00Z

If you come across a great real estate deal in Northwest Arkansas that you want to let others know about, please share it here with everyone. If you are a real estate agent, please give us your name, company, and how to contact you.

Bikes, Blues, & BBQ

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-05T14:18:00Z

The 2007 dates for Bikes, Blues, & BBQ are set for October 3rd - 6th. After another record attendance in 2006 of about 350,000 people, the University of Arkansas did a survey of the public and determined that just over 55% of the people surveyed in favor of or strongly in favor of the event. There is talk of expanding the event to other areas for 2007. Check out the Bikes, Blues, & BBQ website at www.bikesbluesandbbq.org and let us know your comments about the upcoming 2007 event.

Paris Hilton sentenced to 45 days in jail

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-05T13:51:00Z

Paris Hilton was sentenced to 45 days in jail beginning on June 5. Judge Michael Sauer indicated that she disobeyed the law by driving while her license was suspended. Her attorneys will appeal the sentence. Does she deserve jail time, or is she being targeted because of who she is, and her wild reputation.

Text Message reminder service for free!

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-05T03:31:00Z

Have you ever forgotten to stop by the store on the way home? Have you forgotten a birthday or anniversary? Need a reminder of anything? There is a free website that allows you to schedule a text message to your phone on any date. Go to www.ohdontforget.com and take advantage of a reminder service. Let us know what you think.

Wal-Mart releases profit sharing and 401K contributions

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-05T03:09:00Z

According to several news sources, Wal-Mart contributed $1.1 billion in profit sharing and 401K contributions to hourly employees in the United States by the fiscal year ending January 31.

Translate languages with Babel on Altavista

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-05T03:01:00Z

Check out Babel on the Altavista search engine. You can translate in up to 12 different languages. All you have to do is type in the comment or sentence you want translated and select the language you want it to translate. The direct link is http://babel.altavista.com

How about those Razorbacks!

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-04T03:39:00Z

With a great baseball team, a good year in football, a good year in basketball, the lady Razorbacks competing well in every sport, and a dominant track team we should start attracting some positive media in the near future. I look forward to the near future where the talk about the Razorbacks is positive and upbeat. The University of Arkansas has so much to offer our recruits and the future looks bright!

A changing real estate market

Progress Paradox — 2007-05-04T03:27:00Z

The question I'm hearing constantly: "When should we start buying real estate in this market?" My answer: NOW! Real Estate is offering some of the best opportunities for great purchases. Whether as an investment, or as a new home there are plenty of "deals" available. People seem to be bothered that they can not get as much for their property as they may have received a year or two ago. No big deal, if you buy you will get the same deal on the new purchased property and the loss from a sale will be returned in the savings of the purchase.