2024 Political Rallying Cry: ‘It’s the Housing, Stupid’
Can A Generator Add Value To Your Home?
The simple answer: YES.Severe weather events increase in frequency and intensity each year, causing more unexpected power outages. This is why a generator is becoming a desirable home feature for both buyers and sellers. Homeowners are recognizing the importance of having a reliable backup power source, not just for their convenience, but also for their safety and peace of mind. How generators can boost the value of your propertyHigher home appraisalA generator can increase the value of your home anywhere up to 5 percent. And even if your home's appraised value doesn’t go up, it’s an upgrade that you can invest in for your usage and convenience.Increased buyer appealAnd when it comes time for you to sell, generators are modern features that many buyers nowadays have added to their ‘must-haves’ list when shopping for their new home. Homes equipped with generators become highly sought after, providing a significant edge in the market, especially in areas commonly hit by natural disasters or remote areas with overhead power lines instead of underground lines. The real worth also becomes apparent when you find a buyer who needs or wants one of these features. Buyers who have experienced prolonged power outages are much more likely to prioritize homes with a generator, viewing it as a necessity rather than a luxury. Many buyers also prefer not to incur the expense or hassle of installing a generator themselves. This is why generator-equipped homes are significantly more appealing, even if it doesn't directly translate to a higher appraised value. The practical benefits of a home generatorThere are several types of generators so the average cost varies depending on the type and brand. Rest assured that there's a good solution depending on your price range and needs. From portable generators to standby generators, all typically fall in the range of a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.Aside from keeping the lights on during emergencies and outages, the many practical benefits of having a generator cannot be overlooked. Here are some of them:Powers up essential appliances and systems - You can ensure that your home’s security systems remain operational for your family’s safety. If your home also relies on electricity to power your water source, a generator ensures a steady flow. It can also power your HVAC, fridge, and freezer to keep food supplies fresh, and any medical machines and devices.Prevents damage to your property - Outages during extreme heat or cold could be dangerous. Especially in extreme cold, maintaining a steady temperature is crucial to keeping your pipes from bursting and damaging your property.Keeps you comfortable - If you’re working from home or have babies/toddlers, having a generator allows you to be comfortable and continue your daily activities without disruption. Bottom lineIf you're looking for a way to increase your home’s value and marketability, a generator is certainly a coveted upgrade. Similar to a pool, you might not be able to recoup the full cost of its installation when it comes time to sell. However, the convenience and peace of mind it brings to you and your property are crucial, making it more appealing to potential buyers.
Moving To A New State? Don't Forget To Add These Tasks To Your To-Do List
After the complexities of the home-buying journey, moving to your new home is no easy feat. But moving across state lines? It adds a new level of intricacy that can overwhelm you if you don't plan for everything in advance. You might have already gone through the usual moving tasks, from creating a packing strategy for your things to canceling your utilities. In this blog, we go over some moving essentials that you might have missed. Feel free to add them to your moving-out-of-state checklist to help make your move go as smoothly as possible. Carrying your belongings across state lines will be more difficult without the help of professional movers. Interstate movers are regulated by the federal government and specifically monitored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). So when choosing a moving company, make sure that it's reliable, trustworthy, and adheres to FMCSA regulations. Check out the moving company’s USDOT number, Better Business Bureau rating, any official complaints filed with the FMCSA, as well as company reviews and ratings and whether it has any association with the American Moving & Storage Association. A reputable moving company can help you navigate your move efficiently, especially when determining what items are safe to transport outside the state borders.Your trusted real estate agent can also be a good source of information, as they can recommend the moving companies their past clients have successfully used. They can also help you decide on what kind of service you need based on the distance of the move and your own personal factors. You've already researched about long-distance movers that will handle your belongings, but have you given a thought about how you’re getting to your new home in a new state as early as possible? Are you driving your car? Are you taking the train? Or do you need to fly to your destination?Moving long distances almost always involves making travel arrangements, such as booking a plane ticket or a car rental, making hotel reservations, and other plans, as needed. Remember that ticket prices change the closer you are to your target departure date, so it’s better to make reservations ahead of time to save money. And if you’re driving, don’t forget to factor in the cost of food and accommodations, especially if you’re traveling with family. Moreso, you likely won’t receive your belongings for at least a week, so packing an essentials bag or suitcase is a must. If you're not planning on driving your vehicle to your new home across the country, you’ll have to arrange a car shipping service. Research auto transport options that best fit your budget and schedule. Likewise, be aware that transporting a car can take between one to two weeks, which means you won’t have any means of getting around your city except taking public transportation or relying on car-hailing services. Before moving to a new state/province with your pet, keep in mind the local leash laws, pet ordinances, and pet licensing requirements. You may visit the website of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the State Veterinarian's office in your destination state if you have any questions and to get more details on how to coordinate the move for your pet. For local ordinances, you can also contact the City Clerk’s office, local organizations, or animal control facility in the area where you’ll be moving.While requirements and deadlines vary depending on the state, many states or provinces require owners to register their pets within a month of acquiring the pet or moving to ensure that animals receive their necessary rabies shots for public safety purposes. And if what you have are unusual or exotic pets, such as a snake or a monkey, it’s all the more reason to check out the local laws first as not all states accept them. Updating your license and registration to your new address is another requirement as soon as you move. Every state is different regarding when one should change their license and registration information, so be sure to contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in advance. The time window is usually between 10 and 30 days, and you won't want to miss the deadline.For your driver’s license, while requirements vary from state to state, you’ll most likely need a driver’s license, proof of residency, proof of your social security number, and an additional form of identification. Moreover, update your voter registration as soon as you’re able to so you can vote and participate in any and all upcoming elections. There are usually multiple ways to register to vote, including in-person voter registration, mail-in registration, and online registration.
Discover Opal Meadows: The Hidden Gem in Kyle, Texas by Meritage Homes
If you’re searching for a new home in Kyle, Texas, the up-and-coming neighborhood of Opal Meadows by Meritage Homes should be on your radar. This new community is still under construction, but it's already shaping up to be a fantastic place to call home. Why Opal Meadows Stands Out Opal Meadows offers an incredible value for homebuyers, particularly those who prioritize space over luxury finishes. Meritage Homes is known for delivering more square footage for your money, which means you get extra bedrooms, game rooms, and bathrooms without breaking the bank. Sure, the interiors might not be ultra-fancy, but that’s where your personal touch comes in after you close the deal. It’s all about making the space truly yours. Family-Friendly Features This neighborhood is perfect for families. There’s a lovely park right in the community where kids can play, and parents can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Plus, Opal Meadows boasts walking trails for those who love to stay active. One of the best perks? The low 2.2% tax rate with no additional taxes, like MUD or PID, which can really save you money in the long run. Convenient Location Located close to I-35, Opal Meadows offers easy access to Austin and surrounding areas. Whether you work in the city or just like to visit, you’re only about 20-25 minutes away from everything Austin has to offer. You’re close enough to the action without dealing with the hustle and bustle of city life. And while you can hear the highway in the distance, you’re far enough away that it won’t be a distraction. The Frontier Floor Plan: A Must-See Model Home One of the highlights of Opal Meadows is the Frontier floor plan. Starting at under $500,000, this popular layout includes five full bedrooms, four bathrooms, and over 3,100 square feet of living space. It also features a media room and a spacious office, making it ideal for large families or those who love to entertain. The open kitchen and living area are beautifully designed, with high ceilings and built-in appliances that add a touch of elegance. If you’re a fan of outdoor living, you’ll appreciate the large covered patio and the decent-sized lot that gives you a nice backyard. Upstairs, there’s even more space with a game room and a closed-off media room, perfect for movie nights or gaming sessions. There’s also a small nook that can be used as an additional office or study area, providing flexibility for multi-generational living or just a little extra elbow room. Why Kyle, Texas? Kyle is one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, thanks in large part to its proximity to Austin. It’s no longer the remote town it once was. The city has expanded significantly, offering a variety of retail, dining, and recreational options. Kyle has its own little lake, multiple parks, and even a charming downtown area that hosts events like the annual arrival of Santa Claus and monthly Marketplace events featuring local vendors. Living in Kyle means you get the best of both worlds: the peace and quiet of suburban life with all the amenities you need just a short drive away. Whether you’re heading into Austin for work or play, or staying local, everything you need is within reach. Final Thoughts Opal Meadows offers a range of home sizes and prices, with some options starting in the mid-300s and around 1,600 square feet. Whether you’re looking for a spacious family home or something a bit smaller, there’s likely a floor plan that fits your needs and budget. I hope this overview of Opal Meadows and the Frontier model home gives you a good sense of what this neighborhood has to offer. If you’re in the market for a new home in the Kyle area, Opal Meadows is definitely worth checking out!
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