Facts on the Energy-Efficiency Tax Credit

Take advantage of improved tax credits available for a number of energy-efficient home improvements. The energy-efficiency home products must be “placed in service” between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2010.

The Existing Home Retrofit Tax Credit (Tax Code Section 25C): Tax credits are available at 30% of the cost, up to a $1,500 lifetime limit, for installation in 2009 & 2010 (for existing homes only) of these products: Windows and Doors; Insulation; Roofs (Metal and Asphalt); HVAC; Water Heaters (non-solar); Biomass Stoves

Top 10 Energy Wasters and Savers

Cost vs Value on Other Remodeling Projects

Your home is your castle, but sometimes that castle may need a facelift. Remodeling is a great way to create a home environment that can meet your family’s changing needs and tastes without you having to spend a lot of money.

Before you spend your hard-earned dollars, however, make sure that the changes you make now will have longer-term benefits for you when you look to sell your home in the future.

The top middrange projects cited in Remodeling magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report” that provide the highest percentage return are:

76.1% Deck Addition (wood)
74.3% Siding Replacement (vinyl)
73.3% Minor Kitchen Remodel
72.7% Major Kitchen Remodel
71.6% Window Replacement (wood)
70.6% Window Replacement (vinyl)
69.1% Deck Addition (composite)
65.2% Basement Remodel
65.1% Attic Bedroom
64.8% Bathroom Remodel
64.8% Two-Story Addition
62.2% Garage Addition
61.0% Family Room Addition
60.2% Master Suite Addition
56.4% Roofing Replacement
55.7% Sunroom Addition
55.0% Bathroom Addition
50.7% Home Office Remodel

These numbers represent the West North Central region. To get information on projects that are the best investment for your area, check out the Remodeling magazine’s “2008-2009 Cost vs. Value Report” published by Hanley Wood online at www.costvsvalue.com.

Whether you are looking to sell your house soon, or are just looking to remodel for yourself, it makes sense to keep an eye on how the changes you make now will reflect on your biggest investment down the road.

Top Five Home Maintenance Projects

During National Remodeling Month this May, review some tips from professional remodelers on maintaining your greatest investment, your home. Regular home inspection and repair will help maintain the condition of your home and save on costly emergencies in the future.

An informal poll of professional remodelers revealed five tips for maintaining your home to keep it in top condition and support home value. Proper home maintenance should start with a regular inspection of the home’s exterior and the heating and cooling system to ensure the home is running smoothly.

1. Inspect the roof.
An examination of the roof will reveal spots that need repair, preventing leaks that ruin home interiors and valuables. Regular roof maintenance prevents roof problems leading to structural damages and other expensive emergencies.

2. Add insulation.
Most houses can benefit from installing or repairing the insulation barrier in the home. Adequate attic insulation, in particular, keeps the home from losing energy with wasted heating and cooling. A better insulated home means less work for the heating and cooling system and lower energy bills.

3. Repaint surfaces.
A fresh coat of paint does wonders for a home by updating the color palette and giving the home a shiny new start. Quality paint jobs also protect surfaces and prevent problems like rotting wood. Consider using no- or low-VOC paints for reducing fumes while drying and keeping the home air quality more comfortable.

4. Monitor flashing and caulking.
Worn window flashing and caulking allows water to penetrate the walls, causing damage to drywall and framing. Asking a professional to inspect windows can prevent water intrusion, saving thousands in major repairs down the road. Additionally, examine caulking and sealing in bathrooms to ensure water isn’t leaking into walls or floors.

5. Check the water heater and heating and cooling system.
Waiting until the water heater, furnace, or air-conditioning fails will cost more in emergency repairs. Bring in experts to assess these units to ensure they are functioning and receive needed repairs. Newer water heaters and HVAC systems can increase home efficiency, bringing down water and energy bills.