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	<title>Home Maintenance &#8211; Bridge Realty</title>
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                    <item>
                <title>What’s behind rising home prices in Minnesota, and many parts of the U.S.?</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/whats-behind-rising-home-prices-in-minnesota-and-many-parts-of-the-u-s/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/?p=1602</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you’re in the market to buy a home in Minnesota, or many other parts of the U.S., you know...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
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                    <item>
                <title>10 Things To Bring With You When House Hunting</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/10-things-to-bring-with-you-when-house-hunting/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/?p=1410</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Looking at houses to buy can be a ton of fun, but it can also get tiring and overwhelming if...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>5 hot features home sellers frequently forget to mention&amp;#8230;</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/5-hot-features-home-sellers-frequently-forget-to-mention/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/?p=866</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When selling a home, homeowners depend on their agents to ensure that the home is sufficiently marketed. And, that’s understandable....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>How to save money when you buy a home</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-save-money-when-you-buy-a-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/?p=867</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you’re considering buying a home, statistics say that one of the first things you’ll do is surf the Internet....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=35ca5323f66c21914484c2ee1510895afdec59de210a84ba7944943a4fa84e2c1b98b3ad.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Moving to Minnesota? Here Are 9 Reasons Why You Should!</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/9-reasons-to-move-to-minnesota/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/?p=1198</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[9 Reasons Why Moving To Minnesota Is Such A Great Idea! Thinking about moving to Minnesota? If you’re like most...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>4 Reasons NOT To Work With The Seller&amp;#8217;s Agent When Buying A Home!</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/4-reasons-not-to-work-with-the-sellers-agent-when-buying-a-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/should-you-use-the-sellers-agent-when-buying-a-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Just as you wouldn’t dream of using your soon-to-be-former-spouse’s attorney in your divorce proceedings, so should you not use the...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://s3.amazonaws.com/eap03.easyagentpro.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1053/2022/01/31122711/1643653631.jpg"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>3 home upgrades that are good for the environment</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/3-home-upgrades-that-are-good-for-the-environment/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/3-home-upgrades-that-are-good-for-the-environment/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=c35ba281fde81cb53ac0f9c6b77478b319b1f261ccd680d0b483d56f363c2d04ba3b86aa.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Selling your house? Decluttering can pay off big with the perfect garage sale</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/selling-your-house-decluttering-can-pay-off-big-with-the-perfect-garage-sale/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/selling-your-house-decluttering-can-pay-off-big-with-the-perfect-garage-sale/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Selling a home and garage sales. They’re like cookies and milk, macaroni and cheese or peanut butter and jelly –...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Selling your Twin Cities, MN home this Spring? …How to prepare it for the photographer</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-prepare-your-twin-cities-mn-home-for-a-photographer/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/selling-your-home-how-to-prepare-it-for-the-photographer/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Are you thinking about selling your home in the Twin Cities this Spring? Here are some helpful tips to get...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>How to choose your perfect neighborhood</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-choose-your-perfect-neighborhood/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/?p=257</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Are you wondering how to choose your &#8220;perfect&#8221; neighborhood, when you start your home search in the Twin Cities, MN?&nbsp;...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>What are loan origination fees?</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/what-are-loan-origination-fees/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/what-are-loan-origination-fees/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Let’s get this out of the way upfront: When buying a home, the down payment isn’t the whole ball of...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Home Buying 101: Have A Good Lender!</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/home-buying-101-have-a-good-lender/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/home-buying-101-have-a-good-lender/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Home Buying 101: Have A Good Lender! Most buyers may not realize this, but choosing the right lender can make...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Budget-friendly home security tips</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/budget-friendly-home-security-tips/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinvestmentsinc-homes-6.eapsites03.com/?p=45</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Nationwide, crime is skyrocketing. Sadly, we recently saw the homicide rate explode to the highest rate “… in modern history,”...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://s3.amazonaws.com/eap03.easyagentpro.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1053/2022/01/06163623/bigstock-Protect-your-home-insurance-s-418431079.jpg"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>What to expect in the 2022 housing market</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-expect-in-the-2022-housing-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinvestmentsinc-homes-6.eapsites03.com/?p=46</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you’re thinking of jumping into the 2022 real estate market, either by buying a home, selling a home or...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://s3.amazonaws.com/eap03.easyagentpro.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1053/2022/01/06163625/bigstock-A-Businessman-Making-Out-440522438.jpg"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>How to handle a pet emergency when you can’t afford it</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-handle-a-pet-emergency-when-you-cant-afford-it/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinvestmentsinc-homes-6.eapsites03.com/?p=48</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[COVID-19 changed lives in ways that we never imagined possible. One of those ways was the introduction of intense loneliness,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>The home inspection: which repairs are mandatory?</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/the-home-inspection-which-repairs-are-mandatory/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/the-home-inspection-which-repairs-are-mandatory/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Twenty-five percent of May 2021 homebuyers waived the home inspection in their efforts to win a bidding war, according to...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Home Buying 101: Traditional Single-Family or Townhouse?</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/home-buying-101-traditional-single-family-or-townhouse/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinculleyrealestate.com/real-estate-blog/home-buying-101-traditional-single-family-or-townhouse/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Home Buying 101: Traditional Single-Family or Townhouse? There are many different reasons why someone would choose to buy a more...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Retiring? Sell that house and buy a condo</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/retiring-sell-that-house-and-buy-a-condo/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinvestmentsinc-homes-6.eapsites03.com/real-estate-blog/retiring-sell-that-house-and-buy-a-condo/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[It’s wise to have a plan for that day when you say “I’m outta here!” to the work world. Your...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
<!-- /wp:list -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>The gardening season starts now!</title>
                <link>https://jculleyhomes.com/real-estate-blog/the-gardening-season-starts-now/</link>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Jan 2022 22:12:27 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Justin Culley</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://justinvestmentsinc-homes-6.eapsites03.com/real-estate-blog/the-gardening-season-starts-now/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[No, we’re not loopy – a variety of seeds can and should be started indoors and January and February are...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>The American consumer was slow to catch on, but today we have a growing awareness of the environment and how it’s impacted by humans.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>“A new study across 24 countries reveals 58% of adults are more mindful of their impact on the environment, and 85% said they’re willing to take personal action to combat environmental and sustainability challenges.” according to <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/research-reports/2021/consumer-attitudes-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">MasterCard newsroom</a> editors.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>We also expect large corporations and brands to follow suit and to “… behave in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.”</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Change begins at home, don’t you agree? Today we share some tips with you about three home upgrades you can perform that will actually help the environment.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:heading -->
<h2 id="1-increase-the-home-s-insulation"><strong>1. Increase the home’s insulation</strong></h2>
<!-- /wp:heading -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>If you live in a newly-built home you may think that it has sufficient insulation. You may be mistaken. “To keep initial selling prices competitive, many home builders offer standard (not optimal) levels of insulation,” say the pros at doityourself.com.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Folks with older homes probably already suspect that the home doesn’t have enough. To find out if you need additional insulation, try this test: Touch the walls and, if you have a ladder tall enough, the ceilings.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>They should feel dry and somewhat warm. If not, there is not enough insulation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Then, ask yourself the following questions:</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->

<!-- wp:list -->
<ul><li>Does the temperature fluctuate from room-to-room?</li><li>Have you experienced higher heating and cooling bills (pre-current inflation)?</li><li>Does the attic experience water leaks? “Water has a much easier time finding its way into a poorly-insulated home than a well-insulated one,” according to Mike O’Hara with <a href="https://www.insulatekansascity.com/insulation-blog/9-signs-your-home-is-under-insulated/#:~:text=Do%20the%20touch%20test.,warm%20air%20inside%20a%20home." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">insulatekansascity.com</a>. If you experience water leaks in the attic, “… your insulation may be part of the problem,” O’Hara claims.</li></ul>
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<p>Consider obtaining an energy audit to pinpoint where the home needs additional insulation.</p>
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<h2 id="2-you-ll-need-a-healthy-budget-for-this-one-but-it-s-worth-it"><strong>2. You’ll need a healthy budget for this one, but it’s worth it</strong></h2>
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<p>Upgrade your heating and cooling system. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s one of the best home improvement projects for the money.</p>
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<p>The experts at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend purchasing Energy Star certified HVAC products to make a huge difference when it comes to how your home impacts the environment.</p>
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<p>Visit <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/replace" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">energystar.gov</a> to learn the warning signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. They also offer tips on <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/10_tips_hiring" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">how to hire an HVAC contractor.</a></p>
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<h2 id="3-consider-going-solar"><strong>3. Consider going solar</strong></h2>
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<p>Humans have been harnessing the energy from the sun since the 7<sup>th</sup> Century B.C. It took numerous inventions between then and the 1950’s when inventors Calvin Fuller, Daryl Chapin and Gerald Pearson of Bell Laboratories invented the first solar cell.</p>
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<p>“While it was considered the first practical device for converting solar energy to electricity, it was still cost prohibitive for most people,” according to Elizabeth Chu and D. Lawrence Tarazano with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (<a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smithsonianmag.com</a>).</p>
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<p>They are still pricey for many Americans, and the pros and cons still hotly debated.</p>
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<p>One aspect of installing solar panels on your home’s roof that isn’t debated is the benefit they provide to the environment.</p>
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<p>“Traditional electricity is sourced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas,” according to Taryn Holowka, senior vice president, marketing, communications &amp; advocacy with the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/articles/top-four-benefits-installing-solar-panels-your-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S Green Building Council</a> (USGBC).</p>
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<p>“Installing solar panels on your home helps combat greenhouse gas emissions and reduces our collective dependence on fossil fuel,” she concludes.</p>
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<p>The cost of the panels varies, depending on how much sun your roof receives each day, your household’s energy consumption and your local rates.</p>
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<p>An advantage for homeowners is that a home with solar panels may sell for up to 4.1% more than a home lacking solar panels, according to research performed by a nationwide real estate portal.</p>
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<p>That’s an additional $15,370 for the median-valued home in the U.S.</p>
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<p>Learn more about going solar on the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Department of Energy’s</a> website.</p>
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