- What is solar energy, and how does it work?
- Answer: Solar energy is harnessed from the sun’s rays using photovoltaic (PV) cells in solar panels. These cells convert sunlight into electricity.
- What are the benefits of switching to solar power?
- Answer: Solar power is clean, renewable, and can reduce electricity bills, increase property value, and lower your carbon footprint.
- How much do solar panels cost, and is there financial assistance available?
- Answer: Solar panel costs vary, but many incentives, like tax credits and rebates, can help offset the initial investment.
- How long does a solar panel system last, and what’s the maintenance like?
- Answer: Solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, with minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections are usually all that’s needed.
- What size solar system do I need for my home?
- Answer: The size of the system depends on your energy needs and location. A solar installer can assess your requirements and recommend an appropriate size.
- Do I need battery storage with my solar panels?
- Answer: Battery storage, like Tesla Powerwall, can store excess energy for use during cloudy days or power outages, but it’s not always necessary.
- Can I sell excess energy back to the grid?
- Answer: Yes, in many areas, you can sell excess energy back to the grid, earning credits on your utility bill through a process called net metering.
- Will solar panels work during cloudy or rainy days?
- Answer: Solar panels can generate electricity in cloudy conditions, although their efficiency is lower than on sunny days.
- Are there any government incentives or tax credits for going solar?
- Answer: Yes, there are federal and state incentives, such as the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), that can significantly reduce the cost of solar installation.
- Is solar energy environmentally friendly and sustainable?
- Answer: Yes, solar energy is a clean and sustainable power source that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps combat climate change.
What is a sewer scope and why do you want it?
A sewer scope is when an inspector or plumber sends a video camera down your sewer line. This is done either through a clean out access point in the sewer line or in some cases the toilet access point.
The inspector / plumber usually records this and they are looking for roots, intrusions, blockages or cracks or ruptures in the sewer line. These can cause backups in the sewer line and leads to very costly repairs.
If you are buying a house, you want one of these done because homeowner’s insurance may not cover the repair to the line. It also may not cover damages to the home from the backup of sewage, etc.
The TLDR; get the line scoped to avoid several thousands or more in repair and damages down the road.
Why does it matter if the Fed raises rates?
Good question.
When you take out a mortgage to buy a house, you are essentially borrowing a large sum of money from a bank or other financial institution, which you agree to pay back over a long period of time with interest. The interest rate on your mortgage is the cost of borrowing that money, and it determines how much you will ultimately pay for your home.
The Federal Reserve is the central bank of the United States, and one of its main responsibilities is to set monetary policy in order to keep the economy stable and healthy. One way that the Fed does this is by setting the federal funds rate, which is the interest rate that banks charge each other for overnight loans.
When the Fed raises the federal funds rate, it makes it more expensive for banks to borrow money, which in turn makes it more expensive for you to borrow money to buy a house. This is because banks pass on the higher costs to their customers in the form of higher interest rates on loans, including mortgages. As a result, when the Fed raises interest rates, it can make it more difficult and expensive for people to buy homes, which can slow down the housing market and the overall economy.
On the other hand, when the Fed lowers the federal funds rate, it makes it cheaper for banks to borrow money, which can lead to lower interest rates on loans, including mortgages. This can make it easier and more affordable for people to buy homes, which can stimulate the housing market and the overall economy.
In summary, the Fed’s decisions about interest rates can have a big impact on the housing market and the overall economy, as they affect the cost of borrowing money to buy a home.
If you are looking to buy or sale a home in the Colorado Springs area, please give me a call at 7194406626.
From the inbox: what should I look for in a home inspection?
As a potential homebuyer, it’s essential to know what to look for during a home inspection to avoid costly surprises down the road. Here are the some things to look for during an inspection:
- Roof – Check for any signs of damage or wear and tear, including missing shingles, leaks, or cracks.
- Foundation – Look for any cracks or signs of settlement in the foundation, which could indicate structural issues.
- Plumbing – Check all faucets, sinks, and toilets for leaks or damage, and ensure the water pressure is adequate.
- Electrical – Make sure all outlets, light switches, and electrical panels are functioning properly and up to code.
- HVAC – Inspect the heating and cooling systems to ensure they are in good working order and free of any leaks or damage.
- Windows and doors – Check for any cracks or damage to windows and doors, and ensure they close and lock correctly.
- Attic and insulation – Look for any signs of moisture or damage in the attic, and ensure the insulation is up to code.
- Appliances – Test all appliances to ensure they are in good working order, including the stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator.
- Exterior – Inspect the exterior of the home for any signs of damage, including cracks, rotting wood, or damage to the siding or stucco.
- Safety features – Check for the presence and proper functioning of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and other safety features.
- Radon – test for levels of radon gas, which can be harmful if too high.
- Sewer scope – inspect the main sewer line to check for any potential issues or blockages.
By taking the time to thoroughly inspect a home, you can ensure that you are making an informed decision and avoid any costly surprises down the road. This list is not all inclusive and is provided as a starting point.
If I can help with buying or selling a home, please let me know!
Rob Thompson, Realtor®, MBA, The Agency Colorado Springs
719-440-6626
July 2021 End of Month Stats
We are closing out July 2021 w/an average closed price of $476K, an average of 7 days on the market and an average closed to list price of 104.03%. Conventional loans have dominated the market this month. Meridian Ranch continues to dominate as the top subarea for volume of sales.
July 2021 Zip Code Averages
Here’s a quick look at the average zip prices around the center of town.
July 2020 / July 2021 Zip Code Sum of Sales
Doing a little explorative data analysis. Here are the July 2020 and July 2021 sum of sales by zip code. The dot sizing reflects the sum gradient (larger dots = more sales $).
CoS: State of the Market / Terms of Sale
Conventional is dominating the market in volume of sales month to date, accounting for 46% of sales. Here is the distribution of those sales (and cash, VA and FHA) across the market for the month in $50K incremements.
CoS: Top 10 zips
80831 is leading the list of top 10 zip codes by volume of sales month to date in the area, selling for 3.75% more than list on average. 80918 is leading the pack in terms of closed to list price ratio, selling for 5.53% over list on average.
These stats are part of a custom built platform I have built to deliver relevant hyper local stats to my clients. Please let me know if I can help you!
Rob Thompson, Realtor®, The Agency — 7194406626
CoS: Top 10 Subareas July 2021
Here are the top 10 subareas month to date. Meridian Ranch continues its reign at the top!
Here’s how to read this chart:
Meridian Ranch has 29 sales month to date at an average closed price of $515K, a median of $512K, an average closed to list price of 103.72% (selling for 3.72% above list price), an average of 6.17 days on the market, a median of 4 days on the market, an average seller’s concessions of $244 and a median seller’s concessions of $0.
Seller’s concessions are often referred to as closing costs. I dislike this reference because it lends itself to confusion; I like the more accurate description of “seller’s contribution (concession) to the buyer’s closing costs
