One focus of our company is renovating properties to the end-product of a home, with more economic value.  We update the property with all Energy Star/ energy saving appliances, install water conserving fixtures, and utilize energy efficient/ cost effective lighting whenever possible.  We also redesign our homes to be aesthetically appealing for your lifestyle, with modern, open concept floor plans, upgraded lighting, and neutral color tones throughout.  We reduce, re-use, and recycle whenever we can, always keeping the final cost to you, as affordable as possible, without deviating from our end product… a fantastic, quality home for you to enjoy, for years to come. 

We currently have a number of completely renovated properties for sale in Florida. 

If you want to achieve the dream of homeownership, we can offer you that opportunity, at a price you can easily afford.

You can help the planet with a change in your life style and becoming aware of the going green facts. Green cover is fast depleting, a single small step towards helping the planet earth by planting as many trees in the compound of your house will go long way in sustaining green living. People are even aware of eco friendly house designs and those who value our precious green cover have come forward in many ways to help stop the environmental deforestation.

Perhaps, plants out number all other species of life, by providing numerous, diverse families, or, species, in the world, that range from the smallest algae to the largest, gigantic trees. There are plenty of varieties of plants that you can grow in your eco friendly home. Have plants on the terrace garden that are drought resistant. Use an indoor garden, or potted plants, to combat an unhealthy environment inside your home, instead of using air fresheners.

Perhaps you are aware that the earth’s population has increased many folds,  and the demand for water today is becoming more of a challenge. Most Americans use an average of 100 gallons of water every day, which is equivalent to filling 1,600 drinking glasses. The fact is that only 4 of those 100 gallons are actually necessary per person.

With increased demand of fresh portable water, come exorbitant prices, not to mention the threat to our depleting water reserves and polluting the environment.

After price and location, it is now evident that energy efficient features are the next most important features to buyers. Even if you are not selling in the near future, improving your home’s “green” ranking can save you money on energy costs and help save the planet.

There are many things you can do to increase your home’s environmental friendliness. Some have small price tags and some are larger renovations. Here are 5 small and 5 large projects to make your home more green.

Small Projects

1. Replace your thermostat with a programmable one. Preferably get one that has settings for the week and weekend — known as 5-2 or 5-1-1 programs.
2. Replace old light bulbs with energy-saving bulbs. They come in a variety of sizes and styles for most applications.
3. Paint with low-VOC or no-VOC paints. Volatile Organic Compounds can be released into your home for years after painting. Eco-friendly products improve the air quality for everyone living in the home.
4. Get low flow taps or faucet aerators for your fixtures to reduce the water going down the drain.
5. Caulk and weather seal around doors and windows to reduce drafts. You can get specialty gaskets to install behind electrical outlet covers also.

Large Projects

1. If you are upgrading systems, go with Energy Star rated products. Appliances, heating and cooling systems, hot water tanks, windows, and more can be found that reduce energy loss and save you money.
2. Upgrade your heating and cooling using geothermal, solar, or wind power to run your system.
3. Replace toilets with dual flush or low-flow toilets (6L). These can save tens of thousands of liters of water per year per toilet.
4. Increase your insulation in areas like your attic, crawlspace, and basement.
5. Increase the insulation in your exterior walls. This is a major source of energy loss in older homes.

Green House Paints

Painting can be a super-fast makeover and comparatively cheap but it’s important to prepare surfaces well, to choose paints suited to your region, and not to omit on the planning stage. 

You will notice many terrific sites on the internet explaining how to measure, estimate quantities, prepare,  and so forth, but, the first rule is to inquire with your local home improvement center, in order to be sure that you are not using a method recommended for another location, where the climate is different from where your home is located.

There are a few facts about paints which would qualify as ‘green’ no matter what their color.

It took many decades for people to realize the problems of lead paints.

Interior air can be three times more polluted than exterior air, paints and finishes are among the leading causes of this, and, according to the EPA, one of the top five hazards to human health. They release low-level toxic emissions into the air for about a five year period, after painting, due to containing a variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which, until recently, were considered essential to the coverage and life of the paint.

People with allergies and chemical sensitivities are considerably disadvantaged.

Low VOC –  products perform well in terms of  durability and coverage.  They are water-based paints, and are easily cleaned up with soap and warm water.  The residue has little or no hazardous fumes.   Very low odor is omitted during application; and no odor is emitted once drying time has been reached. No off-gassing. Painted areas can be occupied sooner, due to no odor after drying.

Zero VOC – Any paint with VOCs in the range of 5 grams/liter or less can be called Zero VOC, according to the EPA Reference Test Method 24 in the USA. Some manufacturers may claim Zero-VOCs, but these paints may still use color tints, biocides and fungicides with some VOCs.

The addition of a color tint usually brings the VOC level up to 10 grams/liter, which is still quite low.

Clean-up and disposal are simple, since the can and paint residue are not hazardous waste and can be dumped in a landfill, eventually breaking down effectively.

You can even locate and use Soy-based paints. Oils are available for exterior decks, which are fabulous natural products, produced with clove, cinnamon, orange oil, and so on.  These not only look great, but make your house smell terrific,.  These also aid in keeping mosquitoes away.

Natural paints and finishes can be made from natural raw ingredients such as water, plant oils and resins, plant dyes and essential oils, natural minerals such as clay, chalk and talcum, milk casein, natural latex, bees’ wax, earth and mineral dyes. Water-based natural paints give off almost no smell and oil-based natural paints usually have a pleasant fragrance of citrus or essential oils, such as cinnamon. Allergies and sensitivities to these paints are quite rare and as a result, they are by far the safest for your health and for the environment.

Low VOC - Low VOC paints, stains and varnishes use water as a base,  instead of petroleum-based solvents. Therefore, the levels of harmful emissions are much lower than solvent based surface coatings. These Low VOC certified coatings also contain no, or very low levels, of heavy metals and formaldehyde, the latter being a known carcinogen. The amount of VOCs varies among different low-VOC products, and are listed on the paint can.

In the USA, in order to comply with the EPA standards, paints and stains, cannot contain VOCs in excess of 200 grams per liter.

Varnishes must not contain VOCs in excess of 300 grams per liter. As a general rule, low VOC paints marketed by reputable paint manufacturer usually meet the 50 g/L VOC threshold. Paints with the Green Seal Standard (GS-11) mark are certified lower than 50 g/L, for flat sheen, or 150 g/L , for eggshell, semi-gloss and gloss sheens.

Low VOC paints will still emit an odor until dry. If you are particularly sensitive, make sure the paint you buy contains fewer than 25 grams/liter of VOCs.

Ethylene Glycol - a solvent used in latex paint, is listed as a hazardous substance and a toxic air contaminant under many USA federal and state regulations. A clear, colorless, odorless liquid, ethylene glycol, and its vapor, can be toxic to humans. Exposure may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, throat and lungs, and allergic reactions are possible. Overexposure could lead to nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, coma, and respiratory failure. Repeated overexposure can permanently damage the kidneys.

Most paint strippers are caustic – they work by melting the paint. The active ingredient, methylene chloride, is a potential carcinogen.

A new generation of biodegradable paint strippers is now entering the market. They are water-soluble, non caustic and nontoxic – some can even be washed down the drain. Some are citrus based paint strippers – ask your local home improvement store for these products, since some may be available, only by order. These new paint strippers are more costly, than their traditional counterparts, and may take longer to work.  You may also need to apply a little more human energy with these types of paint strippers, but, given the excessive chemical strength and components of the historical products, the extra muscle effort required with use of the newer products, appears to be worth the effort.

Bird safe & pet safe paints

Pet birds can ruin wooden or metal cages by their chewing and scratching efforts, therefore, wearing the paint. Theses pets can also eat paint which can be harmful to their health, or can be sensitive to fumes from new paint. Dogs and cats will scratch and chew wood and then clean their paws, therefore, also eating the paint.  If you’re planning on re-painting a bird cage, or an area where your pet will spend time, make sure you use a bird, or pet, safe paint.  Teflon is most definitely not a pet safe paint. Heated Teflon will kill a pet bird, even in hot sunlight.

Recommendations:

•  Try to use No VOC, or Low VOC paint products, when possible.
•  Try to use biodegradable paint strippers when possible.
• Consult a veterinarian when planning to paint an area that your pet will occupy.

Solar Shades

Even for those who do own homes with central air already installed, adding the cost-effective benefit of solar shades into homes, in locations with 90 degree-plus heat outside, will save money on cooling costs.

Available online or in local stores, solar shades provide you with an attractive screen that prevents your home from being bombarded by heat from the sun, while still keeping the outside view completely intact. A proper solar shade basically reflects the sunlight away from your windows. They come in many different attractive colors to meet the needs of your existing decor. And the price is not something that will put you into great debt, either. For the money spent, this is a must have in hot climates. Solar shades can provide tremendous value with their energy-saving abilities.

Consult your local home improvement store for details on solar shades.

Most home rain gutters and eaves need to be cleaned out twice a year, usually, in the spring and fall. But, this is only a general rule. If your home sits under a lot of trees, or you live in a climate with above average rainfall, you may need to the clean gutters 4-6 times a year. Anyway, you’ll probably want to at least check your home’s gutters once a month, to see if they are filled with any leaves, twigs or debris.

Gutter Cleaning Tools

Rain Gutter Cleaning

To get started you’ll need to have a few tools on hand. Naturally, an extension ladder will be needed in order to get up to the roof. (Be sure the ladder is leaned against the gutter in a safe manner and that it is sitting on level ground before climbing. Ladder safety is number one.)

A bucket or trash bag will come in handy for collecting the debris from your gutters. Yes, you can let it fall to the ground but it means having to clean it up again later. No need to move the same debris twice.

You’ll want a garden spade or some type of scrapper to scoop out the leaves, seeds and other debris. There are also some plastic gutter tools designed for this task specifically, but that’s not necessary.

Cleaning Your Rain Gutter

Start at the downspout area and work your way down the length of the gutter from there. Once completed, wash the gutter channel out with your garden hose.

But what about the downspout? Don’t they always seem to get clogged? If this happens, take the hose and insert it into the top of the downspout and turn it on. In most cases it will flush the clogged debris out of the bottom. You’ll be able to tell by the amount of water coming out of your hose compared to the amount coming out of the downspout.

If the downspout is still clogged you can try a few other things. First, you could unscrew the neck of the downspout or the elbow at the bottom, and clean them out. (These are the areas where most clogs occur.) Or, you can a plumber’s snake to get through the clogged debris in extreme circumstances.

Gutter Cleaning Prices

Finally, you can always hire someone to clean out your rain gutters. Costs will depend on the size of your home, but to get a ballpark idea, an average 1250 square foot home with around 100 feet of guttering will cost anywhere from around $50-$125.

Other Gutter Cleaning Options

There are several options available that can prevent you from having to clean your gutters all the time. Systems like a gutter helmet or a leaf guard will work, but these can be very expensive and difficult to install.

Miscellaneous Recommendations:

• Always, have someone else with you as an assistant, or spotter, when you are planning to climb a ladder to check, and or, clean your home’s gutters.  Remember:  Your safety, and your spotter’s safety are the first priority!
• Consider, hiring a professional for this job.

• Use a professional-type squeegee available for about $25 at a cleaning supply store. Forget the cheap brands you find at the grocery store. They are not as effective, and you have to replace the whole thing once you get a nick in the blade.
• It’s best not to attempt to clean windows while they are in direct sunlight, because the cleaning solution will dry too quickly.
• Dip a 100% cotton cleaning cloth in your solution. Wring out the excess and then wipe the window to loosen dirt.
• Grab your squeegee. Wipe a strip with a cleaning cloth to get started. Start each squeegee stroke in a dry spot
• Squeegee in a pattern from top to bottom, or side to side. If you clean the outside of the windows, as well as the inside, work from top to bottom on the inside, and from side to side on the outside. By doing this, you’ll be able to identify which side may have streaks.
• Keep the squeegee blade dry by wiping it with a cleaning cloth after each stroke.
• Replace the blade when necessary. Even the smallest nick can cause streaking.
• Don’t have a squeegee? Use newspaper for drying freshly washed windows. It’s cheaper and leaves no lint behind.

More Window Washing Hints

Wash windows on a cloudy, but not rainy day. This is the best time to vacuum the frames and sills. Cool, clear water is the choice of most professional window washers. If windows are very dirty you can add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vinegar per gallon of water. For drying windows, a wad of crumpled newspaper works just as well as expensive paper towels. Wear rubber gloves to keep your hands free of ink.

Cleaning Window Sills

To remove spots rub the surface with rubbing alcohol.

Always read the manufacture’s suggestions for cleaning care and maintenance.

How to Clean Brushed Nickel Kitchen & Bathroom Faucets

It’s easy to get your brushed nickel kitchen & bathroom fixtures clean, but you must use only gently cleansers.

Brushed nickel fixtures are somewhat delicate when it comes to cleaning. They have often been coated with a special finish to protect them from damage; however, that coating is easily removed or damaged by harsh cleaners. Even so, there is an easy way to clean brushed nickel bathroom fixtures without damaging them.

Difficulty: Easy Instructions

1. Step 1

Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 1/2 cup of warm water.

1. Step 2

Pour the vinegar mixture into a clean spray bottle.

1. Step 3

Spray the vinegar mixture on to the brushed nickel bathroom fixtures.

1. Step 4

Allow the mixture to sit for about 30 seconds.

1. Step 5

Moisten a soft, clean cloth with warm water.

1. Step 6

Wipe away the vinegar cleaning solution from the fixture, scrubbing as needed.

1. Step 7

Rinse the cloth with clean water.

1. Step 8

Wipe the fixtures down again to remove any remaining vinegar solution.

1. Step 9

Dry the fixtures with a dry, soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• If there is heavy scaling or dirt at the base of the fixture, saturate it with vinegar solution and let it sit two or three minutes before scrubbing.
• Don’t let the fixtures air dry or they could end up with water spots.

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning brushed nickel faucets .

If properly designed, constructed, and maintained, your septic system can provide long-term, effective treatment of household wastewater. If your septic system is not maintained, you may have to replace it costing you thousands of dollars. A malfunctioning system can contaminate groundwater that might be a source of drinking water.
Tip: If you sell your home, your septic system must be in good working order.

Septic Tank
The septic tank is a buried, watertight container typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. It holds the wastewater long enough to allow solids to settle out (forming sludge) and oil and grease to float to the surface (as scum). It also allows partial decomposition of the solid materials. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet in the septic tank prevent the sludge and scum from leaving the tank and traveling into the drainfield area. Filters are also recommended to keep solids from entering the drainfield. Newer tanks generally have risers with lids at the ground surface to allow for easy location, inspection, and pumping of the tank.

Drainfield
The wastewater exits the septic tank and is discharged into the drainfield for further treatment by the soil. If the drainfield is overloaded with too much liquid, it will flood, causing sewage to flow to the ground surface or create backups in plumbing fixtures. A drainfield generally does not require any maintenance. However, to protect and prolong the life of the drainfield, follow these rules:

• Do not drive over the drainfield with cars, trucks, or heavy equipment
• Do not plant trees or shrubs in the absorption areas, the roots will get into the lines
• Do not cover the drainfield with a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt. Grass is the best way to prevent erosion
• Divert surface runoff water from roofs, patios, and driveways away from drainfield

Typical single-compartment septic tank with risers and screen.

Do’s

• Use water efficiently to avoid overloading the septic system. Be sure to repair leaky faucets or toilets and use high-efficiency fixtures
• Keep records of repairs, pumpings, inspections, permits issued, and other system maintenance activities
• Learn the location of your septic system. Keep a sketch of it with your maintenance record for service visits
• Have your septic system inspected and pumped as necessary by a licensed inspector/contractor

Dont’s

• Your septic system is not a trash can. Do not put dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, paper towels, latex paint, pesticides, or other hazardous chemicals into your system.

 Tip: To prevent buildup, sludge and floating scum, periodic pumping of the septic tank is recommended.  Regular inspections and pumping are the best and cheapest way to keep your septic system in good working order

Always contact a professional for your septic system needs.

Granite Countertop Pluses:

Granite countertops are beautiful. Each piece is like a unique work of art. Because granite is available in so many colors, homeowners have many options to choose from. Granite is also very durable and resists heat. This makes it great for kneading dough, making roll out cookies, and other tasks that need a cool countertop.

Granite Countertop Minuses:

Granite requires regular maintenance. Besides just cleaning your countertops, you’ll need to make sure the granite countertops are sealed periodically. Stains on granite can be difficult to remove, but not impossible. Granite countertops can also crack.

How to Clean Granite Countertops:

To keep granite countertops clean, use a microfiber cloth to dust off countertop surfaces. Wipe down the granite countertops daily and as needed using water. Once a week wipe down with a damp cloth and a stone cleaner formulated with a neutral pH. When cleaning, never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your granite countertops. They can scratch, pit, and etch the surface of the stone.

How to Maintain Granite Countertops:

It will be helpful to reseal the countertops when water splashed on the surface no longer beads up. If there are stains or damage, contact a stone-care professional for repair.

Since granite countertops are such an expensive upgrade in your home, always contact a professional before starting any type of maintenance on granite products.