Athletes - check out this challenge.
5k Obstacle Mud Run, Ocr Obstacle Mud Runs - Adrenaline Rush Sports Llc - Oak Harbor, Oh: A 5K obstacle mud run in Oak Harbor course built to challenge the athlete and non athlete alike. We offer a verity of obstacles with varying difficulty levels. Each
27 March 2017
26 March 2017
How Low Supply & High Demand Impacts the Real Estate Market [INFOGRAPHIC]
![How Low Supply & High Demand Impacts the Real Estate Market [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM](https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/03/24160229/EHS-Report-STM1-1046x1641.jpg)
Some Highlights:
- The concept of Supply & Demand is a simple one. The best time to sell something is when the supply of that item is low & the demand for that item is high!
- Anything under a 6-month supply is a Seller’s Market!
- There has not been a 6-months inventory supply since August 2012!
- Buyer Demand continues to outpace Seller Supply!
If you live in Avon, Avon Lake, Bay Village, Westlake or Rocky River we currently have a huge listing shortage of homes in the $200k to $300k range. Contact me today to get your home listed before interest rates increase and/or conditions change.
Lee Hisey, The Hisey Group w/ Howard Hanna
440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com
20 March 2017
The Basics on Insulating for Home Energy Efficiency
Technology Snapshot & Benefits:
You can save a lot of money by installing or improving insulation. Insulation retards the flow of heat and is one of the most cost-effective investments that you can make. The effectiveness of insulation is measured by its tested resistance to heat flow and is known by its "R" value. The greater the "R" value, the greater the effectiveness. One of the easiest and most effective places to install insulation is in the attic, since heat rises from the heated rooms below. Insulation comes in many different forms including the familiar fiberglass, Styrofoam, vermiculite, pouring wool, cellulose materials such as shredded newspaper, and numerous "foamed-in-place" types. Particularly within the fiberglass and rigid foamed board types, there are a variety of choices of heat-reflective coatings. Properly installed insulation always improves comfort and reduces heating and cooling costs.
Estimated Cost Savings:
Heating buildings is one of the largest expenditures of energy in the nation and one of the greatest opportunities for saving. The average U.S. household spent more than $2,350 in 1999 for energy: $1,200 for home energy and $1,150 for motor gasoline to run vehicles. (AEO2001, p.213) Of the $1,200 spent in the home, nearly half is spent for heating and cooling (AEO2001, p.162) and in aggregate, amounted to more than $50 billion in 1999. (p.159)
Heating buildings is one of the largest expenditures of energy in the nation and one of the greatest opportunities for saving. The average U.S. household spent more than $2,350 in 1999 for energy: $1,200 for home energy and $1,150 for motor gasoline to run vehicles. (AEO2001, p.213) Of the $1,200 spent in the home, nearly half is spent for heating and cooling (AEO2001, p.162) and in aggregate, amounted to more than $50 billion in 1999. (p.159)
For new construction, the maximum recommended amounts of insulation yield huge savings compared to no insulation. For existing buildings, upgrading to the recommended amount of insulation will save money. The amount of savings vary widely depending upon your starting point – namely, how much insulation you already have. See Energy Star's Cost-Effective Insulation Values for Existing Homes for recommended insulating values for walls, floors, ceilings, and basements.
In general terms, when you double the R value of your insulation, the heat flow through the insulated surface will halve. Your bill, however, may not halve because of other, less well-insulated surfaces in the building. Typical savings for retrofit insulation are on the order of 20-30% of your heating bill. For a monthly heating bill of $200, this can amount to $40-$60 in savings.
Issues:
A plan will help you with insulating decisions. In general, you should bring the attic insulation up to currents standards because it is easy to do so. Wall insulation can be problematic, as many walls are little more than the width of a 2x4, which limits the depth of insulation that can be easily installed. Sometimes a second interior wall can be built which provides a deeper cavity for insulation as well as providing an easy opportunity to upgrade electrical wiring and new cable and telephone wiring. This is most economical when done as part of a larger room-remodeling effort.
Regional Issues:
The amount of insulation that you need varies upon your climate and exposure to prevailing winds. Northern locations benefit most from insulation during the heating season; southern locations benefit most during the cooling season.
Installation (Getting It Done):
Be sure to get bids from two or three (or more) contractors and explore different methods and types of insulation. Multiple bids will allow you to gain immediate perspective on the true costs and value of insulation in your area.
Videos On This Topic:
From EcoBroker International: Lee Hisey, Realtor is a member.
Contact us today to list your home? Searching for a home with "Green" features?
Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, The Hisey Group LLC with Howard Hanna
440-315-6000 * LeeHisey@howardhanna.com
First Time Home Buyer’s Guide
We actively advertise all of our listings on www.Homes.com and they have a nice user friendly guide for new home buyers. Check it out, then give us a call to help you through the process. Remember - the seller pays our commission!
Everything you need to know about the first time you buy a house, or a refresher for your second home and beyond! Click to check out the interactive version:
Everything you need to know about the first time you buy a house, or a refresher for your second home and beyond! Click to check out the interactive version:
When you are ready to move to the next level give me a call!
Put my team to work for you. There is no charge!
Lee Hisey, Phone/Text:440-315-6000
17 March 2017
The Basics on Energy-Efficient Appliances
Technology Snapshot & Benefits:
Both immediate and indirect economic savings can come from energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators, horizontal-axis washing machines, clothes dryers, dishwashers, etc. Immediate and continuing savings accrue from lower utility bills for electricity and/or water. The performance levels of these appliances meet, and generally exceed, those of industry "standard" models. As a case in point, consider household refrigeration. By the late 1970s, refrigerators reached their most inefficient performance by requiring about 1750 kiloWatt-hours per year to operate. Modern energy-efficient refrigerators provide the same or better service at 450-550 kiloWatt-hours per year, and they are much quieter in operation.
Estimated Cost Savings:
The direct economic savings achieved by efficient appliances are a function of how much the appliance will be used, the performance level of the equipment being replaced, and local costs for utilities. When you replace older equipment, it is not uncommon for electricity consumption for that appliance to decrease by 50% or more. In general, if the appliance being replaced is more than 15 years old, and it is replaced with a state-of-the-art unit, you may expect utility savings of 20%-60% compared with the energy required by the previous appliance. Horizontal-axis washing machines typically save consumers 50% in both electric and water utilities. Additional savings come from reduced quantities of detergent.
Your monthly electrical bill is for all electricity used by all electrical loads in the building, so changing a single appliance will lower the bill, but in proportion to the amount of electricity formerly used by that appliance. If refrigeration represents 15-20% of your electric bill, a new refrigerator that is twice as efficient as the unit being replaced will lower your total bill by about 7-10%.
Any increase in initial cost is usually more than made up in monthly savings. See ACEEE Consumer Guide to Home Energy Saving for more detailed information on appliances and savings.
Issues:
Availability of the most energy-efficient appliances may be an issue. Sometimes the best equipment is in demand, which can mean that discounts and sale prices are either unavailable or of lower value. Over time, as manufacturers and suppliers clear inventories of less efficient models by offering discounts, expect the price of efficient appliances to come down as well.
Regional Issues:
Primarily, regional issues involve supply, delivery, and installation.
Installation (Getting It Done):
Be sure to price shop and to get two or three (or more) prices. Inquire about installation and removal of your old unit. For any refrigeration unit, be sure that the refrigerant will be removed and recycled responsibly. Refrigerants are very potent greenhouse gases and must be captured and contained. Shopping for price and availability will give you perspective on the true costs of equipment and installation in your area.
Videos On This Topic
How to Save with Energy Star Appliances (1:49) - The Home Depot - In this video from The Home Depot's "Save Money, Save Energy" series, find out more about how much money you can save by installing Energy Star Appliances.
Ailing Appliances (4:17) - National Geographic Green Homes- There are many appliances in your home that you may not think use too much energy, but in reality are costing hundreds of dollars every year. In this video from the National Geographic Green Guide, find out what to look for when replacing appliances and how to make sure you are maximizing your energy savings and minimizing environmental impact.
Advantages of Energy Star Appliances in Your Home (1:01) - Danny Lipford - Buying Energy Star appliances can help you save as much as 10-50% on your energy bills as well as reduce water use. In this short video, hear a little bit more about why it is important to look for the Energy Star label and how much of an impact it can have on the environment.
Energy Star Home Review (4:40) - Energy Star Podcast - Watch as Tom Kraeutler of The Money Pit Home Improvements Radio Show talks about ways to implement energy-efficient practices in a room-by-room home tour that includes Energy Star appliances, CFL light bulbs, and programmable thermostats.
More Information on This Topic:
Contact us today to list your home? Searching for a home with "Green" features?
Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, The Hisey Group LLC with Howard Hanna
440-315-6000 * LeeHisey@howardhanna.com
Things to do on Middle Bass Island, Ohio
Where is Middle Bass Island, Ohio and what is there to do?
Middle Bass Island's central location within the Bass Islands, as well as the other Lake Erie Islands makes it an ideal place for you to base your Lake Erie vacation or to purchase a home, building site, cottage or condominium. An undiscovered Ohio gem, the prices are still very reasonable.
Bass Island things to see and do:
- J.F. Walleyes Microbrewery - On Middle Bass Island (MBI) holds regular events throughout the year. Food, drinks, live entertainment and more!
- St. Hazards Resort - Events, rental trailers and campsites, bar/restaurant.
- Middle Bass Island Yacht Club - Great Lakes boater's connection.
- Middle Bass Rentals - Your best source for renting a place for a day, week or month.
- Miller Boat Line - Your ferry to Middle Bass Island. Part of the experience - enjoy the trip.
- Take a Virtual Tour of Middle Bass Island - The quiet island for active people.
- Sonny S - Put-in-Bay is just a shuttle boat ride away! Leave the "Quiet Island for Active People" for the "hopping" spot in the islands. You can generally catch a ride on the hour during the summer months.
- YouTube Video Tour of Middle Bass Island.
- The village of Put-in-Bay is packed with shopping and dining opportunities. Many unique tourist attractions.
- Lake Erie Island Real Estate - The "Hisey Group"
- Middle Bass Island State Park and Marina
- Lonz Winery - Now owned by the State of Ohio. It is unfortunately falling into disrepair since purchased by the state, but you can still walk the grounds of this grand old establishment. (Let's hope the state does something. How about a place for all of Ohio Wineries to display, sell and show-off our great Ohio wines as a group?)
This is just a sampling of what the islands have to offer. Other forms of transportation include water taxi's and private plane service. Mainland activities include wineries, Cedar Point Amusement Park, and nature areas and parks throughout the island/coastal region. Fishing and boating opportunities abound.
Contact the Hisey Group with Howard Hanna for more info.
Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator, Realtor
440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com
Island Office: 891 Fox Rd, Middle Bass Island, Ohio 43446
15 March 2017
Special Financing for Medical Doctors, Physicians, Dentists, Podiatrists, Ophthalmologists, and Veterinarians.
The
Prescription for Homeownership. This unique mortgage program is
designed exclusively for physicians with good credit, but limited assets and
potential high student loan debt.
No Down
Payment Needed. Your buyer's days as a resident or fellow can be tough, so they'll
appreciate the option of bringing less cash to closing. Our Physician Plus
program offers an option of no down payment along with no mortgage insurance up
to $650,000.
Financial
Flexibility. In addition to no down payment, funds used toward closing costs
can come from different sources, such as gifts from a family member! Also, the
seller of the property can contribute up to 3% of the purchase price to pay
certain closing costs or settlement fees.
Who's Eligible? Medical doctors, including dentists,
podiatrists, and ophthalmologists. Veterinarians are permitted as well. Contact me today and let me put you in touch of an approved Ohio lender, then let's start your home search!
Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator & Realtor
"Serving Cleveland to the Lake Erie Islands"
440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com.
11 March 2017
Remember to change your clocks tonight! What a difference an hour makes! Time to SPRING FORWARD.
![Spring Forward: The Difference An Hour Makes [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM](https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/03/03123607/The-Difference-a-Hour-Makes-STM-1046x1354.jpg)
Some Highlights:
- Don’t forget to set your clocks forward this Sunday, March 12th at 2:00 AM EST in observance of Daylight Savings Time.
- Unless of course, you are a resident of Arizona or Hawaii!
- Every hour in the United States: 649 homes are sold, 177 homes regain equity (meaning they are no longer underwater on their mortgage), and the median home price rises $1.86!
Contact me today and let my team go to work
helping you to meet your spring real estate goals.
Life changes, and so do our home needs. Let's get started!
Lee Hisey, Team Coordinator
The Hisey Group w/ Howard Hanna
440-315-6000
10 March 2017
Our Beautiful Lake Erie Islands
Our beautiful Lake Erie Islands are a chain of archipelagic islands. They include islands located in both the United States and Canada. The majority of the islands are in the state of Ohio. The largest island is Pelee Island located in Canada and the southernmost point in Canada is Middle Island. Major islands in the United States include Kelleys Island, Middle Bass Island, and South Bass Island. Many of the islands are nature preserves or privately owned.
The larger islands to include Pelee Island, Middle Bass Island, Kelleys Island and South Bass Island have regular car ferry service in season as well as passenger ferry service. Some of the smaller islands have their own ferry docks and can arrange special ferry service. There is also a regular passenger boat from the Village of Put in Bay on South Bass Island to the southern tip of Middle Bass Island. Charter boats and planes are available, or you can visit by private plane or boat.
Primary Ferry Services:
There are other services that offer "special" cruise trips throughout the season. Some visit more than one island.
The Lake Erie Islands (largest to smallest)
- Pelee Island (Canada/Ontario)
- Kelleys Island (US/Ohio)
- South Bass Island (US/Ohio)
- Middle Bass Island (US/Ohio)
- North Bass Island (US/Ohio)
- Johnson’s Island (US/Ohio)
- Middle Island (Canada/Ontario)
- West Sister Island (US/Ohio)
- Rattlesnake Island (US/Ohio)
- Turtle Island (US/Ohio and Michigan)
- Green Island (US/Ohio)
- Sugar Island (US/Ohio)
- Ballast Island (US/Ohio)
- Mouse Island (US/Ohio)
- Gibraltar Island (US/Ohio)
- Indian Island (US/Michigan)
- Hen Island (surrounded by very small Big Chicken/Chick/and Little Chicken Island – really more reefs) (Canada/Ontario)
- Middle Sister Island (Canada/Ontario)
- North Harbor Island (Canada/Ontario)
- Ryerson’s Island (Canada/Ontario)
- Second Island (Canada/Ontario)
- Starve Island (US/Ohio)
- Buckeye Island (US/Ohio)
- Lost Ballast Island (US/Ohio)
- Snow Island (Canada/Ontario)
- Mohawk Island (formerly Gull Island) (Canada/Ontario)
- Gull Island (US/Ohio)
The Lake Erie Islands have long been a spring through fall vacation area, with an active ice fishing community in the winter. They are surrounded by some of the richest fishing areas in the world, and provide opportunities for a wide variety of water sports and activities. The islands each have unique communities offering entertainment, outdoor activities, shopping and dining in a wide variety of venues.
For information on purchasing a home or property on the Lake Erie Islands or any of our island, river and shore communities contact the Hisey Group with Howard Hanna at 440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com.
Keep Your Roof in Tip-Top Shape
It’s almost time to spring your clocks ahead one hour! Daylight Saving Time begins on March 12, 2017. In preparation for the year ahead, your roof is one of the most important areas to maintain. Periodic roof maintenance helps prevent major issues that can lead to serious homeowner claims.
Roof
Check for damage to your roof and have a professional inspection, if necessary.
Check for damage to your roof and have a professional inspection, if necessary.
Attic
Go to the attic. If there is visible moisture or discoloration, your roof might be leaking.
Go to the attic. If there is visible moisture or discoloration, your roof might be leaking.
Siding
Examine the paint on your siding and trim. If it is peeling, you might need new paint to protect against the effects of weather.
Examine the paint on your siding and trim. If it is peeling, you might need new paint to protect against the effects of weather.
Leaks
Check for leaks around window and door sills. Improving your seals can lower your energy bills.
Check for leaks around window and door sills. Improving your seals can lower your energy bills.
Debris
Clean debris from gutters and downspouts, and make sure they’re draining away from the home.
Clean debris from gutters and downspouts, and make sure they’re draining away from the home.
Greenery
Trim overhanging tree branches, untidy vegetation, and overgrown shrubs.
Trim overhanging tree branches, untidy vegetation, and overgrown shrubs.
Winter weather often results in gradual damage that homeowners can miss if they aren’t looking closely. This is particularly important to watch out for because homeowners policies do not provide coverage for wear and tear. It’s well worth it to spend a little time on home maintenance this spring, so that a small roof issue doesn’t turn into a big roof issue!
It’s almost time to spring ahead! Daylight Saving Time begins on March 12, 2017. Don’t forget to advance your clocks!
Are you ready to spring into the housing market? Contact me today at 440-315-6000 or LeeHisey@howardhanna.com. Let's take your dream to the next level!
From the Howard Hanna Corporage Blog. Original: Keep Your Roof in Tip-Top Shape
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