If you havea portable generator and have a gas/oil heating system, you may want to change your existing shut off switch to a 3 way double pole transfer switch.  You would need to purchase a male pigtail and a surge protector.  In the generator mode you should also turn the furnace breaker to off as to not back feed the panel.  Materials will cost about $70.00.  Best done by a licensed electrician. For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Lehigh Valley Real Estate Market Watch April 2011

* Month in Review: Comparison of Activity from March 2011 to April 2011 Number of sales – During April 2011, 334 sales were reported which is a 13% decreased compared to March 2011 at 382.


Average Market Time – The average time on the market for properties sold during April 2011 was 96 days, which is a decreased compared to March 2011 at 110 days.

List Price to Sold Price Ratio: The average sales price compared to list price for residential properties sold during the month of April 2011 is 95%, which is a decrease compared to March 2011 at 96%.

Year in Review: Comparison of Activity from April 2010 to April 2011: Number of Sales – During April 2011, 334 sales were reported, down approximately 36% from April 2010 at 518.

Average Market Time – The average time on the market for properties sold during April 2011 was 96 days, which is an increase compared to March 2010 at 79.

For more info contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

* Information from LVAR

HVAC - AFUE & SEER

What does it mean?  In the heating and cooling systems have two different means of determining the efficiency between them.  To know what the efficiently of a boiler or furnace AFUE is used, which is the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency is the ratio of heat output.  For example a boiler or furnace of an AFUE of 95% means 95% of the energy in the fuel heats the home and 5% escapes through the exhaust.  On the cooling side is SEER which means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.  It is the ratio of cooling delivered by a system, measured in BTUs to the cost of electricity to run the system. The higher the SEER , the more efficient the system.  The minimum SEER for new units is 13.  This would be 25% more efficient then an older 10 SEER unit.  The higher the SEER you need to calculate how long it will take you to recoup the costs of the higher SEERs.  Feel free to contact me at: findit@LehighValleyRealty.com

Snow Rakes To The Rescue

Being a a Homeowner has many joys and responsibilities. This winter proved that mother nature always has the upper hand. One tool to have on hand is called a "Roof Rake".  This handy tool can save you damage to your home.  What it is a telescoping device where you can remove snow and weight off your roof & gutters.  This aides in better draining of your roof and can help keeping water/ice to back up into your home.  Call must be used so you do not damage your shingles.  A better made unit will have roller wheels so you have better control so not to dig or lift the shingles.  I feel it is worth to have on hand.  Another great use is pulling snow & ice off your inground pool cover.  If you have any additional questions feel free to email me.  findit@LehighValleyRealty.com  http://www.garelick.com/product.php?pnumber=89416