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SELLERS.....GREEN UP YOUR HOME CLEAN UP:

If you are getting ready to clean up your home for the Spring selling season, consider these preparation hints. Let the four C's of staging be your guide. A green way toward Cleaning, Clutter- free, Colorful, and Creative:

CLEAN:
Using natural cleaners to get the house ready, is better for people with allergies, and creates less harmful chemical waste. Brands such as, Mrs. Meyer's, and Seventh Generation, provide a wide array of "green" household cleaners. A simple, at-home solution for removing hard water stains and cleaning windows, is a 1-1 mixture of vinegar and water.

CLUTTER FREE:
Box up personal items such as photos and collectibles and instead, show off the architectural features of the house. Then find a way to donate items you no longer want, rather than pitching them into the dumpster.

COLORFUL:
Freshen up the look of a room(s) with paints of minimal or no Volatile Organic Compounds, such as formaldehyde. These low-VOC paints have little odor when applied and don't create hazardous waste when discarded.

CREATIVE:
Stage the home using salvaged and repurposed items, such as wine barrels and old pottery for plants, or light fixtures made from re-cycled glass.

NEW BUYERS.....CONSIDER THESE TIPS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ALLERGY FIGHTING:

Homeowners can save as much as $200 to $400 off their energy bills, while increasing the long term value of the home.

WATER HEATERS:
Tank-less, gas water heaters turn on when you start using hot water and turn off when you're done. This can reduce water heating costs up to 35% annually. Water heaters that have a timer, can be programmed to turn off when you are away.

LIGHTING:
Automatic dimmers will adjust lighting based on the time of day. Extremely beneficial for exterior lighting.

BLINDS AND DRAPES:
Automated blinds and drapes are an eco-savvy development in today's window treatments. They can be programmed to close during the hottest part of the day in Summer and to let the Sun in during Winter.

AIR FILTRATION:
Choose an air filter that has a small-particle or HEPA filter. Clean or replace filters frequently. Keeping the humidity low and temperature around 70 degrees, will help fight mold and dust mites.

FLOORING:
Wherever possible, replace carpeting with hardwood or tile flooring. Wash area rugs and shampoo carpeting.

PLANTS:
Spread aquarium gravel, over the dirt in potted plants, to help contain mold.

FOOD WASTE:
Place garbage in a can with an insect proof lid, and empty the trash daily.

KITCHEN AND BATH:
Scrub with bleach to clean mold from the fixtures, tub and shower.

Following these guidelines, whether selling or buying, can potentially save you money and your health.  While  you may not be able to take advantage of everything listed, do the best you can in line with your personal budget. Remember, "every little bit helps".

For all your Real Estate and Insurance needs and helpful hints, contact LEGACY REALTY GROUP, EDISON, NJ, 732.744.0400.