Sandra Thomas's (sandrathomassells) Blog

Thanks to another portion of last year's stimulus bill, the tax savings for energy-efficient home improvements were themselves improved. Instead of a complicated patchwork of credit amounts, homeowners can claim up to 30 percent of the first $5,000 spent on qualifying residential energy upgrades,...

Renewable market optimistic as prices continue to stabilize The month of November saw home sales soar 59.5 percent from this time last year with 1,839 listings purchased. Not since 2005 have November numbers been so high. “Historically low interest rates and the tax credits for homebuyers put fir...

While driving back home from vacation, a friend of mine who happens to be a home inspector heard on the radio that a 3 month old child was scalded by bath water.  A sad story and he decided to make that topic a safety message to hopefully prevent an injury. Toddlers and young children are at the ...

If you were to measure the total space of the cracks, gaps and holes around the perimeter of an average home, you would find a hole that is roughly three feet square. Imagine how much heat can escape, or moisture can enter, through a space that large. To prevent these problems, inspect the perime...

Could you have a hidden savings account in old or lost savings bonds?  (NAPSA) A growing number of Americans are engaged in a treasure hunt and some in are in their own home. They're looking for U.S. Savings Bonds, the Series E in particular.  The good news is that there's a new website designed ...

The Federal Trade Commission's ("FTC") rules banning prerecorded sales calls made without a consumer's written consent took effect on Sept. 1, 2009. Additionally, the charge for accessing the federal "Do Not Call" registry will slightly increase on Oct. 1, 2009. Below is a brief summary of the ch...

One of my housing inspectors while traveling to an inspection heard on the radio that West Nile virus was found here in Ohio, Franklin County to be more precise.  This virus is transmitted via mosquitos which can be greatly reduced in number by a few simple steps. Mosquitoes lay up to 250 eggs at...

Per IR-2009-27, March 18, 2009 -  For people who recently purchased a home or are considering buying in the next few months, there are several different ways that they can get this tax credit. The filing options to consider are: File an extension. Taxpayers who haven't yet filed their 2008 return...

Ever since the housing bubble burst and the current recession began in late 2007, the federal government has been seeking ways to reinvigorate the slumping housing market. Beginning in 2008, first time homebuyers became eligible for a $7,500 maximum tax credit to help in the purchase of their hom...

Reclaimed WoodYou can't buy old growth wood at your local building supply,but it was the standard material a century or so ago. Thanksto a renewed appreciation for the quality of old wood and theeco-conscious desire to reuse it, you can buy reclaimed woodfrom de-constructed homes, barns and old f...