June 2007
Volume 10 Issue 6
Installing carpeting with padding absorbs sound and reduces impact noise. Another alternative is a floating floor with a sound-isolating mat underneath.
Windows with the Energy Star label outperform standard windows when it comes to dampening outside noise. They also cost more, but they can reduce home heating and cooling costs by as much as $125 to $340 annually, depending on the climate. Another option is installing interior storm windows to create another sound barrier.
Make sure windows are properly installed to prevent noise and other elements from entering your home. Use caulk or spray foam to seal air leaks in and around windows and doors.
It takes energy to make noise, so if any of your equipment, appliances or fans are noisy, they are also likely to be inefficient. Replace older appliances with newer models with the Energy Star seal. HVAC equipment, including blowers and ducts, should be sized properly. Right-sized units operate less frequently, more quietly and more efficiently.
This months joke:
Question:What do you call a cow that doesn't make milk?
Answer: A milk dud..
Quick Fix [Up]
Here are five improvements you can make that might help your home sell faster in a cooling -market:
• Create a welcoming entrance. Make sure your front door is clean, polish the hardware (or replace it if necessary) and repaint the door if it is in poor shape. Finally, add a new doormat, update your mailbox, and place attractive greenery or flowers on either side of the door.
• Remove clutter and put it in storage. Box up anything you won't use in the next few months (including holiday decorations, seasonal clothing or sports equipment, old toys, etc.) and send it to a storage facility.
• Replace outdated window treatments with simple white miniblinds or wood blinds cut-to-measure at a home center. This is a fairly simple fix that can refresh your rooms in just one weekend.
• Update your storage space with closet systems so the closet looks organized, not cluttered.
• Have wood floors professionally cleaned and polished.
If you have worn, dirty or badly colored carpeting with wood underneath, tear it out and expose the wood.
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2007 Risa's "Thank You for Being my Client" party was the BEST party ever!! Go see the pics at Risas Party
Question:A Bright Idea?
Answer:
Are you ready to take the plunge and remodel your bathroom? Keep lighting in mind when making plans. Recessed lighting fixtures may be a popular recent home trend, but they can often leave you in a "shadow trap" when illuminating your new room. Focused lighting such as halogen or floodlights creates unwanted shadows in your new bathroom design, making it look spooky rather than inviting.
To avoid this lighting pitfall, use a soft-focused or diffused light fixture and mount it at eye level or just above. Positioning light this way will cause it to shine at your face, not down from above. Other types of light, such as decorative or recessed lamps also can combat shadows.
If you do choose recessed lighting, place the lights close to the mirror and center them above the faucet. A dimmer switch at the vanity area helps control the lighting, allowing you to adjust for day and nighttime levels. Follow these steps and you'll be brilliantly pleased with your new bathroom.
Have questions? email Risa at questions@risa.net or call her at 1-800-699-4901
June Planting Guide - List of What to Plant at Garden-Helper.com
June Holidays and Celebrations
FREE programs from me to you, including "How To Buy A Home In Orlando" booklet
Use This Moving Truck for FREE 
RE/MAX Town & Country Realty has a moving truck (pictured above) that our clients can use FREE for their local (inside the Metro-Orlando area) moves.
When Risa helps you buy or sell a home, just let her know that you would like to use the RE/MAX Moving Truck. Then Ray, the Moving Truck Coordinator, will coordinate your reservation to use the truck for a 24 hour period and outline all of the details for the truck’s use. Tell Risa early on in your transaction that you’d like to use the truck to make sure that you can reserve the best time for your move!
We’re glad to be able to offer this additional service to our clients. Risa Saltman wants to help make your moving process as smooth, enjoyable and efficient as possible.
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