Archive for April, 2008
Earth Day, 5 simple tips to Improve your Home’s Energy Efficiency
April 22nd, 2008 categories: Green Trends
1. Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances and Electronics
Appliances and electronics account for about 20% of a U.S. home’s energy consumption. Look for the EnergyGuide and ENERGY STAR® labels when shopping for home appliances and electronics and replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient CFL’s. And, turn appliances, electronics and lights off, when not in use.
2. Upgrade inefficient heating and cooling systems
Heating and Cooling systems account for about 56% of the energy consumed in the U.S. If replacing an old HVAC system, it is important to size it correctly and have it installed by a reputable contractor. Newer systems are required to meet certain energy efficiency ratings that far exceed even those only a few years old. They are not cheap. But, the savings over the long-run will be substantial.
If a new system is not practical or in the budget, consider updating old thermostats and check for and repair any leaks found in the heating and cooling ducts.
3. Replace that old inefficient Water Heater
Water heating can account for 14 to 25% of your homes energy consumption. Consider the following options:
1. Demand (tankless), heats water directly and without the use of a storage tank,
2. Solar, use the heat of the sun to provide hot water,
3. Tankless coil and indirect water heater, uses the home’s space heating system to heat water.
4. Windows and Doors
Energy efficient windows and doors can substantially reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs. Replace old single-pane windows with new dual-pane windows and weather strip all exterior doors to help insulate your home more efficiently.
5. Landscaping and Design
Shading. Use trees and shrubs to aid in cooling your home if needed.
Conserve Water. Choose plants that will flourish in your climate. Think native. Reduce the use of bluegrass turf that requires a great deal of watering. And, mulch. Mulching will help keep plant roots cool, reduce evaporation and soil crusting and will go a long way in preventing those pesky weeds.
And, as a bonus, we should all be recycling, walking or riding a bicycle as much as possible and doing all of the simple things that are good for all of us and our planet. Happy Earth Day!
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4680 Hicks Ln, Chico, CA 95973
April 17th, 2008 categories: Pick of The Week
MLS #200803670
Welcome to this week’s “Pick of The Week”! Listed at $555,000, this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home shows 2,190 square feet and is nicely situated on 2.36 spacious acres. The home is described as being owner built in 1998. This home is located just North of Chico, CA, near Keefer Rd.
I am impressed by the quality of construction, the floor plan and layout, and the extensive use of stained wood, both inside and out. There is more than enough parking and ingress and egress are made easy by the attractive circular driveway.
The builders have made thoughtful use of patio areas, especially in the back. The massive covered patio would provide ample shade in the summer and a great area to entertain and bar-b-q. And, if you have horses, this could be an ideal horse property.
This home demonstrates that not all “good deals” are cheap. But, if you are in the market for a bit of country property in this price range, this is a good one. But, don’t wait. I expect that it will sell quickly.
Contact me for a showing.
Listed by, Remax
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Tennis Anyone?
April 16th, 2008 categories: Around Town, Events
Here in Chico, California, we are lucky to have so many great resources for fun and leisure. One of the best resources to learn or to develop a new skill or hobie, is the Chico Area Recreation and Parks District (C.A.R.D).
Their motto is, “Helping People Play”. And, that is just what they do.
This week will be the last of a 3 week (6 session) class for learning the basics of tennis I have enjoyed with my wife, mother-in-law, and about 10 other folks. We have really enjoyed the classes taught by, patient and entertaining, tennis instructor, Jerry Brayton.
But, the best part could very well be the free use of the ball machine that cranks out ball after ball.
Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30 to about 7:30pm at the Community Park Tennis Courts… check their website for future classes.
In addition to tennis, CARD offers many other activities and events for people of all ages and interests. Things like; soccer, dance, kung fu, computer classes, Movies in the Park, various trips and tours, and so much more…
It is really a terrific local resource that offers something for just about everyone. So, if your looking for something recreational and fun to do this Spring, check out CARD.
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Housing Opportunity Committee & Chico Association of Realtors Wine Tasting Benefit for Habitat for Humanity
April 15th, 2008 categories: Events
Wine and fun for a great cause! This year’s annual wine tasting benefit for Habitat for Humanity is expected to
be best yet. Held on May 8th, 2008, from 5pm-8pm at Chico’s own Canyon Oaks Country Club. Tickets are only $35.00.
The event will include, live jazz and 8 premium wine varietals perfectly paired with delectable hors d’oeuvre and raffle drawings.
For the 4th year, the Housing Opportunity Committee and The Chico Association of Realtors, has sponsored this wonderful fundraising event in support of affordable housing in the Chico area. It is a great committee to be on and the event is always a lot of fun. And, this year’s should be extra special at beautiful, Canyon Oaks County Club. Best of all…It is a terrific cause!
Tickets can be purchased in advance at The Chico Association of Realtors office, located at 1160 E. 1st St., Chico, CA. 530.893.1301. Or, through me…530.345.2564 x225.
We are looking for local businesses to donate prizes for the raffle. Your generous support is very much appreciated! So, if you have an item or service that you would like to contribute, please contact us.
We hope to see you all there!
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Chico Fight Night VII
April 14th, 2008 categories: Events
Battered and often bloodied, even the defeated left the square circle at Chico Boxing For Fitness this past Saturday with reason to be proud. The packed house was treated to 15 bouts between combatants of various ages, sizes and skill levels. For the vast majority of competitors, this was their first boxing experience in the ring. Given one month of free training to any brave soul wanting to compete, participants get in shape and learn a new skill, often learning important things about themselves and developing an appreciation for what it takes to be a real boxer.
Owner’s, Lou and Jose “Joe” Rodriquez, have been running the gym on the corner of 7th St. and Wall for about 7 years. And, for that time, I have been a faithful member and friend to the gym and its owners.
Not only does the gym provide a positive atmosphere for people of all ages and backgrounds to get in tremendous shape, it is a place absent of pretence, where everyone feels at home, and where kids can go to develop the attributes of self confidence, humility and character.
As I have done on numerous previous occasions, I once again enjoyed my apron-side seat and fun role as one of three judges for this thrilling event. I am happy and honored to do whatever I can to support this Chico treasure. I definitely get out of it more than I put into it. And, I think you will see why if you come by and check it out. Stay tuned for Fight Night VIII. Date and time to be announced…
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