Cassy Patty Century 21 Steele & Associates 256-714-0932 Fax: 256-880-5961 110 Lily Flagg Road HuntsvilleAL35802
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Presented by: Cassy Patty
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Green House Just a few years ago, making a commitment to help the environment meant recycling your plastic bags and glass bottles. But today that concept can be taken much further, to the products we buy, the cars we drive, and even  the homes we live in.
Now builders have the know-how to make your home healthier, more energy-efficient and more cost-effective by using green materials and technologies. Here are some questions you may want to ask if you are interested in hiring a professional who is also committed to the cause.
• Have you completed any special education or training courses on this topic? Some states and local agencies offer training and even certificate programs for builders who are serious about putting green technologies to work for their clients.
• How can we use the latest technology to reduce costs and boost comfort? This could include using specific kinds of insulation, a special ventilation system, or even solar panels to supplement traditional energy sources.
• What kinds of appliances and home systems should we use? When you think green about all parts of the home, from the toilet (water conservation) to the windows (are they energy efficient?), is when you can make the most difference. An experienced green builder should be able to recommend the products and fixtures that are best.
• How do you reduce, re-use, and recycle? Find out if the builder uses materials made from recycled materials when they are available and recommended. Also, inquire how he disposes of waste materials from the construction site.
Going green when you are building a new home is a worthwhile and serious undertaking. Learn as much as you can about the topic and the builder to ensure a smooth process and productive result. For more information on green building, visit the Green Advantage web site at http://www.greenadvantage.org/index.php
 Thinking Ahead The headlines can be scary. The current housing crisis has put many Americans at risk of losing their homes and had a significant ripple effect on the economy as a whole. Unfortunately, some consumers received loans in the early part of this decade that they ultimately could not afford. In many instances, buyers selected an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) with terms they could manage at the loan’s onset. But when the scheduled rate hikes set in a few years later, they found themselves too far in debt without enough income to meet their commitment. 
You can avoid the same fate by paying close attention to the conditions and terms of your own loan. Start with these four recommendations:
1. Make sure that your loan officer is licensed in your state and in good standing.
2. Understand the lending process. In addition to learning about buying and selling real estate, you should spend time educating yourself on lending. For instance, you should have a good understanding of your credit score and how it affects your ability to borrow money. If you have a poor score, but a lender is still willing to give you a mortgage, there will probably be consequences down the line.
3. Study the rates and timetables. Many homeowners were caught off-guard when their monthly payments increased as part of their ARM schedule and structure. Make sure you will be able to afford the higher payments in the future if this is the loan product you choose.
4. Understand what your monthly payment will include. You want to make sure expenses like taxes and insurance are tied into your monthly payment and are not additional costs.
For more resources on this topic, visit the web site for your state government. The federal government offers information at http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Family_Homes.shtml.
Check It Off
 “Be Prepared.” It is a slogan that can be applied to almost every moving day. Here is a checklist of some items you should have on hand.
• Paperwork – If you are using a moving company or renting a truck, keep a copy of the contract with you.
• Directions – Perhaps you are caravanning with friends to the new place. It is easier to hand out printed directions than explain it multiple times.
• Mobile Phone and Charger – A fully-charged mobile phone is a must.
• Numbers – Your address book, phone book or a list of important contacts is a good idea.
• Money – If you are tipping movers, you will need cash. It is also good for incidentals, such as paying for lunch.
• Extra Supplies – A few extra boxes, tape, tissue paper and scissors can be a lifesaver for those last minute items. Plastic bins will also do the trick.
• Cleaning Items – You should give your “old place” a good once over if you did not have time the night before. A broom, dust cloth, paper towels and a general cleaning agent should do the job.
• Tricks of the Trade – If your children are with you on moving day have some things to keep them occupied. Books, art supplies, cards and snacks are good ideas.
• For Fido – Have your pet needs at the ready.
• Personal Necessities – You want to keep careful track of your purse, wallet, keys, phone and medications on moving day. Losing any of these items could make a long moving day that much longer.
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Century 21 Steele & Associates, 110 Lily Flagg Road, Huntsville, AL, 35802
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