[ad_1]
In their excitement for buying a home, of their own, many home buyers ignore some of the so – called, nuts – and- bolts, in terms of the overall costs, related to owning a house! As a Real Estate Licensed Salesperson, in the State of New York, for well over a decade, I always advise, my clients and customers, to hire a qualified home inspector, and/ or, engineer, before making such a significant decision. After all, for most of us, the value of our house, represents our single – biggest, financial asset, so, doesn’t it make sense, to begin, this process, wisely, and prepared. Decisions, and options, related to energy, heating, and cooling, etc, are amongst the most significant considerations, and with that, in mind, this article will attempt to, briefly, examine, consider, review, and discuss, 5 energy alternatives.
1. Oil: In certain parts of the country, oil is the prevalent resource and system, used. This requires arranging, for timely – delivery, being prepared with a service contract, and attempting, to minimize the risk of price changes, by agreeing, with the delivery company, to some sort of pricing, risk – reduction approach. While oil is often energy – efficient, effective, etc, some complain, about the odor, dirt, etc, as well as the risk, of deliveries, arriving later, than they should, and are needed/ necessary!
2. Gas: In recent years, many homeowners have converted their heating system, from oil to gas. Often, the advantage of this, is not having to wait for deliveries (automatic), most consider cleaner, etc. However, we have all heard about the potential of gas – leaks, etc, so this should also be considered. In addition, there have been times, when this approach, is less costly than oil heating.
3. Electric: Since every house has electric, this type of heating, is often, the easiest, and, in some areas/ regions, the only one, available. In many instances, however, this form is dryer, and some, consider it uncomfortable, and requiring, some sort of additional moisture source! In addition, depending on region, electric heat, is often, quite costly! One advantage, however, of this source, is one may heat, one room or area of the house, without the entire one.
4. Solar: In areas, where a house has an unobstructed, southern exposure, solar energy makes sense! The costs of these systems have been reduced, in the past few years, and they have become more effective. Certain states offer tax advantages to installing these systems, also. Some use solar energy, for heat and hot water, while others, for, only their water. Obviously, the operating costs of these, is generally, less expensive!
5. Geothermal: In some regions, geothermal systems, which are built, in a specific way, to take advantage of some of the natural resources, in the local area, make sense.
Pay attention to the energy costs, and possibilities, and decide, which might be best, for you. Protect your investment!
[ad_2]
Source by Richard Brody