Outdoor And Resort Properties, LLC

Weather Theories: Interesting Reading

2009-06-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

I'm still looking for explanations for our unseasonable rain. Found some interesting info on Accuweather about how the jet stream is in a different pattern causing drought in Canada, warmth in Alaska and putting pressure on Northern Nevada. Might be a while before it goes away. Might not. No one is sure about anything right now.

Then Computer Colonics posts a link to a story from Russia Today citing global warming as the cause for Air France flight 447 going down. Maybe. Maybe not. Interesting theory though! Could global warming cause pain for the airline industry? Over tax pilots skills? Hmmmm......

Grassroots Books in Reno!

2009-06-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

I read. A lot. And it tends to get really expensive and more UBS (used book stores) go out of business all the time. Since I'm always lamenting not having a convenient UBS, I was told about a new place in Reno called Grassroots Books. Then I see an article about them in my Neighborhoods paper I receive in the mail. I figure this is a sign I should help pass their info along.

They also carry some new books, DVDs and more. You can check them out at their website and they link their inventory sold via Amazon. Best part? They have 'simple prices' which is their way of standardizing the prices for convenience. Hardbacks are $2.99 and Paperbacks are $1.99. I'm used to UBS' charging half of the list price printed on the book and then pricing would become more confusing from there so this is a great idea.

I wish the owners all the success in the world!

USPS Drives Global Warming?

2009-06-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

h/t Dean

I might not have found the info I was looking for to explain the unseasonally long rain we are having in the Reno area, but receiving this in my inbox did make me chuckle!

June 2009: Weird Rain in Nevada?

2009-06-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

I wrote a post on the Outdoor Living blog about the good and the bad sides of the unusual rain we have been receiving this week in general Northern Nevada area.

Since this seems like a really unusual weather pattern for the Reno area, I thought I'd see if anyone was was wondering about this too.

Found interesting info explaining how pollution is changing our rain patterns.

Sacramento - As he flew high above the snowy Sierra Nevada this spring, atmospheric scientist Veerabhadran Ramanathan saw confirmation of what he'd both hoped and feared to see: Big, dark storm clouds that weren't producing any rain.

Air pollution appears to be altering rainfall patterns in the Sierra and around the world, said Ramanathan of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla.

Don Thompson @ The Associated Press goes on to report how rain proceseses actually change when carbon build up changes the structure and purpose of a cloud.

But I'm not finding much commentary on this current rainfall pattern. Maybe I need to work on my choice of keywords, don't know. I do know this is frustrating. I just want to find one expert that might hazard sharing information on if this is an actual result of global warming or we're just lucky.

Washoe County Green Team

2009-06-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

Interesting. Washoe County has a team of professionals to work on the government side of building a sustainable green community. They have an excellent flier listing the statistics for their recycling programs. It is a lot of information in a single 2 page document but is great to know they are tracking the difference made in protecting the environment as well as the money saved! It also includes a list of phone numbers for residential recycling so it is a keeper.

Even more interesting is their Strategic Plan. Displaying an easy to read chart, showing annually how they are doing as far as reaching their goals. Example: Affordable Housing in 2007-2008 was at a past due stage. Really? You will readily admit to the public that all isn't perfect? I respect that kind of openess. But they even go a step farther by having an online comment section as well. Not being afraid to solicit opinions is pretty brazen and cool. Not something you see everyday in local government!

Declaration of Homestead, Protect Your Investment

2009-05-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

The world has gone crazy. Working harder, making less and doing their absolute best to protect everything they have worked for. Surprisingly, most people I talk to in Nevada aren't aware that they can file a Homestead Declaration. This process is to help protect their home investment in the event they run into certain forms of financial trouble.

From the Clark County Courthouse: WHAT THE LAW PROVIDES: When you record a Declaration of Homestead, Nevada law protects the equity in your home up to $550,000 from general creditor claims (unpaid medical bills, bankruptcy, charge card debts, business/personal loans, accidents) but would not preclude a seizure or forced sale of your residence from general creditors if your equity exceeds the $550,000. A creditor may file suit and can record a judgment lien against any real property you own. Recording a Declaration of Homestead protects your principal residence up to the statutory maximum. For example, if the value of your home is $645,000 and you have a first mortgage of $485,000 plus a second mortgage of $10,000, the equity is $150,000.

WHAT IS NOT PROTECTED?

The Homestead Law does not protect you against debts secured by a mortgage or deed of trust, payment of taxes, IRS lien, mechanic's lien, child support or alimony payments.

The State of Nevada website lists contact info for each county to find filing and fee details. You will need your property legal description and parcel number, so dig it out and call your county recorder to get started.

If you have never heard of a Declaration of Homestead, Mother Earth News has an excellent article that explains the benefits of filing for protection!

Time to Sell & Look at Renting?

2009-05-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

I would love nothing more than to sell my house. But in this economy, it can be really hard to even imagine when prices have fallen so low.

We put our 20% down, didn't take out 2nd mortgages and we're still underwater. But I did explore changing my strategy. When considering how the rich get rich, I realize right now is the time to jump into real estate investing. Not just investing but a full blown rental business.

I share my thoughts on this at our Outdoor Living Blog. Feel free to disagree!

My Nevada

2009-05-14T10:08:00.001-07:00

Wine, Food & Gardens...Oh my!

2009-05-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'm a fan of gardening and wine. What a great way to combine both! Maybe we will see you there....

But the food from last year looks absolutely yummy! Pictures and recipes from 2008 are available at Dishing Up and it looks really good.

June 7 – “Organic Uncorked”

11th Annual Organic Wine/Beer Tasting

Fundraiser, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Nevada EcoNet and Moana Nursery will host this event at

Moana Nursery, 1100 W. Moana Lane. Tickets are $30 in

advance, $40 at the door and can be purchased at both Moana Nursery locations.

Nevada EcoNet is Northern Nevada's Environmental Resource. More about this event from their website... "Organic Uncorked is Nevada EcoNet's annual fundraiser for the past ten years. It is an organic beer and wine tasting donated by Southern Wine and Spirits hosted at Moana Nursery on Moana Lane. Local Chefs including Nancy Horn of Dish Cafe, Jennifer Bushman of Vintage Wine Shop, and Lyn Slovak of Flourish with prepared scrumptious organic flavors from local farms.

The Local Food Systems Network works with a number of farms to highlight local delicacies including Great Basin Food Co-op, The River School, Nevada Grown and more. A silent auction features items from green businesses from EcoNet's Green Guide."

Time for a Change?

2009-05-05T09:54:00.001-07:00

A change in climate, generous tax advantages for individuals and businesses, outdoor activities year round . Many are still looking to move to Nevada and the reasons are many. When making the change, consider the advantages of making your next home or business green. Nevada has all the wind, sun and geothermal energy necessary to live efficiently and save money.

Homes are more affordable than ever, upgrades are becoming more affordable with more options than ever before. Roof shingles are now solar panels to be pleasing to the eye and the planet. Wind power is accessible is smaller and more efficient packages. Supply your new home with the best quality appliances have them pay for

themselves with tax incentives and energy savings.

The world isn't going to fix itself so it is up to us to make smart financial decisions and eco friendly choices. In the future, we will all be looking at smart homes for many reasons. Currently, the recession is constantly on everyone's mind. Many people never want to allow themselves to be beholden to the actions of others. Home buying needs to be an informed process. Outdoor & Resort Properties' agents are educated about the Northern Nevada real estate market bringing the best resources in smart home buying.

Times are changing rapidly. The real estate market is showing signs of recovery. Is it time for you to make your change too?

Moving to Save Money?

2009-05-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

Nevada has low tax burden and high per capita income

Nevada does not charge income tax. Did you know Nevada has a Constitutional ban against income tax?

From the State of Nevada website

Article 10.1.9. No income tax shall be levied upon the wages or personal income of natural persons.

The State of Nevada also has a great PDF document summing up this info.....

Nevada Department of Taxation

January 26, 2009

No Nevada Income Tax

The Nevada Department of Taxation receives an enormous number of inquiries regarding issues relating to Federal Income tax. The State of Nevada does not participate in the administration of Federal Income Tax nor does it levy a State personal, business or corporate income tax. The Nevada Department of Taxation does not require informational copies of Nevada residents’ Federal Income Tax forms. Federal Income Tax inquiries should be directed to the official IRS website at www.irs.gov.

That is the entire document. If you don't believe it, you can read it here

Short, sweet and to the point. Yep, thats definitely Nevada for you!

Tax Burden for Nevada is ranked 49th with a low 6.6%, only beat by Alaska

The national average is 9.7% This information is based off of how much taxes do residents pay in their own state and excludes tourist tax revenue from residents of other states. This is not based on tax collection but strictly tax burden to live in that state.

California is ranked 6th at 10.5%, New Jersey is ranked 1st at 11.8%

And Nevada ranks 7th for highest Income Per Capita at $49,371

Our tourism keeps us affordable and desirable!

Taxes are important considerations when looking to make a move. For your business, for your family, Nevada is an affordable place to be.

Green home prices in Virginia City Highlands

2009-04-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe what low prices we are seeing in Virginia City Highlands. That is sad and great at the same time. Look at this house built in 2006! It is a short sale what means the bank will have to take the highest and best offer.

It sits on 10 ac of land and has just about everything your heart desires. When someone has to lose, someone else wins.

All the Dirt on Gardening: Earth Day Is an Opportunity for Each Person to Make One Change to Help Mother Earth

2009-04-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

All the Dirt on Gardening: Earth Day Is an Opportunity for Each Person to Make One Change to Help Mother Earth

I recently discovered the ladies over at All the Dirt on Gardening and have come to appreciate all of their posts. I recommend reading them if you garden, or are interested in starting!

This post is a must read. They have info to improve gardening habits to recycle/reduce/reuse. Excellent book recommentations if you have been looking!

Kids Go Green

2009-04-22T18:05:00.001-07:00

To end Earth Day, I must say my kids finally get it. I mean UNDERSTAND! Hellelujah!!!

I have to give some show on Nickalodeon credit. They say something like, turn off the lights for 98 seconds and we'll save the planet. I'm writing and the kids run around the house like short lunatics to turn off lights and realize the only light on is the turtle's. They're bummed.

But it opened a door for them to understand why we are always fussing to turn off the lights, don't waste, hang the towels after showering, refill a water bottle, etc. etc. Yes, we are parents and it is our job to ride you obnoxiously, but we know what we're doing! And bless them, the light went on in their little heads.

We talked about the reasons we do what we do. It saves our family money and helps keep our planet a cleaner place. We don't live in a dirty house and we don't want a dirty planet. I was quizzed about what we've done to be more "Green". They eventually walked away listening to recycling water, changing the light bulbs, benefits of Energy Star appliances, manure in the garden instead of commercial fertilizers, building an arbor versus installing A/C and on and on and on.....

I feel for them. But maybe. Just maybe. I won't have to fuss as much about turning off the lights when they leave a room.

Earth Day 2009

2009-04-22T08:24:00.000-07:00

Today is Earth day. It may not be a day to go out and celebrate for everyone, but it can be a day to look at your life and see what can be changed.

Reduce/Reuse/Recycle, time to make a plan to practice the 3 'R's?

Help the economy and shop for Energy Star appliances?

Put your home through an Energy Audit?

There are many ways to take care of the planet. With the world the way it is today, it is also a great time to exert control over our actions that will save money. There are many advantages personally and globally to making those changes now.

All the Dirt on Gardening: Tips for Smart Garden Center Selections

2009-04-21T09:22:00.000-07:00

All the Dirt on Gardening: Tips for Smart Garden Center Selections

This is an excellent reminder of what to look for when selecting plants. I have been gardening for years but love to read a reminder before I buy plants. This advice will save you grief and money in the long run!

CO2 Formally Declared a Pollutant

2009-04-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Today in the New York Times:
The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday formally declared carbon dioxide and five other heat-trapping gases to be pollutants that threaten public health and welfare, setting in motion a process that for the first time in the United States will regulate the gases blamed for global warming.

What I don't understand is how this can be a defined a pollutant when it is also naturally occurring. There must be a measurement defining a level that has to be reached for CO2 to be a pollutant, but no one is stating what that is or even if they can measure it.

We all want to save energy and keep the planet clean. But I want to see more information about the standards and measurements used to make declarations like this. It just doesn't make sense that we jump from decreases our impact on the planet (good) to a necessary gas for life to function is a pollutant (bad). Huh?

I remember basic earth science studied in school stating CO2 was necessary for life on Earth. Has everyone forgotten this basic lesson?

From Merriam Webster, the definition for carbon dioxide

Freedom

2009-04-15T12:02:00.001-07:00

What going green means in my neighborhood: FREEDOM.

Northern Nevada has an abundance of sunshine and wind. Buying land to build a dream home may not have power access. But solar and wind power are becoming more affordable every day. Bringing power out to a remote parcel of land can be very cost prohibitive. You have to have easements granted, purchase power poles, have them installed, line run etc. This process can easily begin at $20,000 if you are within a mile of a power line. Further out is obviously more expensive.

Many homes in remote areas take full advantage of the wind and sun by using both a wind turbine and solar panels. Since they are off the grid, they store power via batteries, unlike others who are able to sell their excess back to their power provider. Many homes off the grid still have a back up generator. For the more challenging environments a generator is security against all elements!

Of course, this has a downside too. Traditionally, banks like homes to be on the grid. There are many lenders who are more educated about green power than before but it still saves time and money to work with an experienced Realtor when it comes to buying properties like these.

Switch Your Home to Solar Power

2009-04-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

Dream: Green Home

2009-04-10T10:53:00.001-07:00

Finding a green home is getting easier. But it still seems that to truly be efficient, most homes need a great amount of work. If you're interested in having the most energy efficient home possible without tearing it apart, building is the best option.

With the economy going crazy and the real estate market going up and down, there are great deals available. Many people invested in land for their future dream home and have changed their mind. Northern Nevada has every opportunity listed for vacant land right now. It is definitely a buyers market so that leaves the door open for strong negotiations in the buyers favor. One of the major factors for this when buying land, is many parcels are owned, free and clear, by the seller. If not, many lenders required substantial money down on vacant land, so the sellers still have room to negotiate their asking price.

Outdoor & Resort Properties, LLC has several listings for vacant land that are an excellent start to building your ultimate dream (and green) home!

A good start:

20500 Toll Road
Virginia City Highlands NV 89521
40.13 acres

This property has views to envy. Snow capped Sierra Nevada Mountains, Reno city lights at night, PRIVACY!
It also comes with a start. Rural Northern Nevada can be tricky when it comes to accessing water. This property has the well and septic installed. The impressive part is the solar converter installed. That is a big investment so you can worry about home plans instead of the necessities required!

Department of Interior on Wind Power

2009-04-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

Today in Atlantic City, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, speaks on the value of wind power on the East Coast. “Yes, we can build a clean energy future,” Salazar told the summit, “but it will require American energy, American ingenuity and American courage to tackle our dependence on foreign oil and the growing perils of climate change.” Read more here.

We definitely need more exploration into this technology. Currently, it takes alot of windmills to provide a modest amount of power. But once upon a time, we couldn't imagine having powerful personal computers in our homes. Increases in technology happen by leaps and bounds when there is a desirability fueling it's demand. With more research into the productivity and possibilities for a low cost source of energy happening, we are definitely heading towards a Greener tomorrow.

Obviously, I'm a fan of windpower. I see it as a major competitor for energy supply in the future. Unless the world ends, we will always have wind.

So let's build it, the wind will come!

Washoe State Tree Nursery

2009-04-03T08:57:00.000-07:00

Good day, good news!

I have received my list in the mail for the plants offered for sale at the Washoe County Nursery. Time to plan. Time to research. This makes me a happy girl!

I have to admit, this isn't a program for everyone. You must have a minimum 1 acre property and have an evironmental purpose for planting.

From the Nursery site:

Qualifications for the purchase of plants The program is not intended to provide landscaping materials for small home lots. The purpose of the program is to provide locally adapted, affordable trees and shrubs to conserve and enhance Nevada's natural resources through conservation plantings such as:

Erosion control
Post-fire rehabilitation
Wildlife habitat
Greenbelts
Reforestation
Windbreaks
Water Conservation
Mine reclamation
Wetland and riparian restoration
Woodlots

My needs definitely run to erosion control, wildlife habitat (birds) and water conservation. I have bought honey locust saplings that are growing great. The biggest advantage for me is the nursery provides Caragana (most people call it Russian Olive). This is a pretty plant that grows strong with no attention, extremely little water and is extraordinarily soil tolerant. I will research other options for erosion control at the top of the swale [insert link] at the top of my swale, but my final decision will be made after talking to the folks at the nursery. I have had wonderful experiences learning from the staff and they never fail to help me make better decisions about my plantings!

Bank Owned Properties in Northern Nevada

2009-04-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Do you want a bargain in the Northern Nevada area? Now is the time. TODAY we have 933 bank owned properties in Northern Nevada. You can now buy a condo in Reno for $29,000 starting price. Let’s face it, Is a super good time to buy. Call us right away to reserve the best deals available.

Global Warming Argument

2009-04-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

I've been part of several discussions about the validity of the Global Warming argument. I have read very articulate information by experts on both sides of the argument. Figuring out who is right can be very difficult since I'm not a scientist, or expert on the enviroment.

But.

1. We can't depend on oil forever. There is the entire 'peak oil' concept. Obviously, there isn't an unlimited supply and oil is supplied by a limited number of consortiums. That is too much concentrated power to have over our needs.

2. It is obvious that the world climate is changing. It is obvious we are trashing our only planet. What is wrong with making it cleaner, just in case Global Warming caused by people is real?

Some people are vehemently opposed to the idea of Global Warming. My question is, if the effects of changing our practices make the world a better place, why are people foaming at the mouth every time the subject is brought up? I just don't get it. And when I don't get it, I want a reasonable argument why.

From the Global Warming Hoax blog... "But, my friends, carbon dioxide is NOT a pollutant. It is a naturally occurring trace gas essential to life on earth. Simply reducing CO2 levels does nothing to reduce real pollution. It does nothing to clean up our streams and rivers from dangerous mercury contamination. It does nothing to prevent sewage from polluting our drinking supplies. It doesn’t fix holes in the ozone layer, nor does it stop landfill chemicals from leaching into ground water. Even if CO2 levels plummeted in the next 20 years, we’d still have pollution problems."

Gotcha! That makes sense. There are scientist in this world, analyzing the data presented about Man-Made Global Warming, and wanting people to understand this issue isn't the biggest, baddest evil to our planet. CO2 is necessary for our planet to exist. I would still argue that everything has to be in balance and too much anything can be a bad thing. But, he (and others) go on to argue that we can put all of our energy into decreasing CO2 levels when we have other real pollutants being ignored.

Ultimately, all arguments are about balance. We can't forget to dispose of chemicals properly, pick up litter to keep them out of streams, etc.

Northern Nevada Bargains

2009-03-31T15:02:00.000-07:00

Do you want a bargain in Northern Nevada? Time has finally arrived. Interest rates are lower than ever, and prices are lower than ever. You can now buy a house in Northern Nevada for $75,000 starting price. Call us right away to reserve the best deals available.

My Definition of Carbon Footprint

2009-03-30T08:15:00.000-07:00

From Economics 101: Every decision we make in life has a cost.

Take a drink of soda? The cost can be calories.

Try a new shampoo? The cost can be disatisfaction, or a real expense in price change.

Ride a bicycle? Increased exhaustion.

These are just examples of how every decision we make daily has a cost.

I mention this because this the thinking necessary to understand the concept of a Carbon Footprint.

I've read some pretty complicated definitions of Carbon Footprint, but many seem to make the eyes cross before even getting to the end. SO many people throw the term around. I have come across more than a few people that admit they really can't define what it means. I'm going to break it down in the way that I understand Carbon Footprint to work.

A Carbon Footprint is the affect of every decision we make in regards to the environment. What is the cost to the environment for transportation, home heating, our choice of groceries, etc?

Break it down a bit more....

There are two types of Carbon Footprint: Primary and Secondary

Primary is a direct cost to the environment: Driving a vehicle with a combustion engine emits exhaust to the atmosphere causing an increase in greenhouse gas.

Secondary is an indirect cost to the environment: When buying imported groceries, the additional transport requirement increases greenhouse gas.

Every choice we make, be it the regular 'paper or plastic', has a cost to our environment. To make a difference, people have to learn to look at the cost of decisions made every day. The difficulty is there are so many choices we have always taken for granted.

It is going to take time, but I believe knowledge is power. And with knowledge, understanding our habits can make changing our daily choises easier.

Save Your Receipts!

2009-03-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

The tax credits for increasing the energy efficiency of your home are growing. It only makes sense, that to encourage Green Living, the IRS would allow for more energy efficient deductions. As well as the energy savings monthly, tax savings is the best way to convince everyone to save energy!

From the Energy Star website
The only energy efficiency improvements that are eligible for a tax credit in 2008 are:
geothermal heat pumps (30%, up to $2,000)
solar water heaters (30%, up to $2,000)
solar panels (30%, up to $2,000)
small wind energy systems (30%, up to $4,000)
fuel cells (30%, up to $1500 per .5 kW of power capacity)

Tax credits are available at 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, in 2009 & 2010 (for existing homes only) for:
Windows & doors
Roofing (metal & asphalt)
Insulation
HVAC
Water Heaters (non-solar)
In addition to the 2008 credits already available…

Please read more at the Energy Star website for more details

A Conversation About Wind Energy

2009-03-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

I was part of an interesting conversation the other day about windmill farms. Our town, Virginia City, is in a raging debate about allowing a wind energy project to take place in our county. So far, I understand the majority to be against the project. Personally, I think it would be great, but a neighbor mentions 2 opposing opinions that I found to be legitimate concerns.

First, Virginia City is a historic town. The rest of the world is changing, but our local economy really depends on not seeing that change take place here. Wind projects have a large visual impact and that would be a contradiction to the ‘old West’ goal of the town. Talk about a rock and a hard place.

Second, they are an oddity. That is the exact word used and I thought it fit well. Using the example of driving to Palm Springs, you see massive wind farms that are just different from anything you see in nature. From a distance, you may compare the vast expanse of windmills to cranes that are moving their wings, but never actually taking off in flight. Up close, they are massive and intimidating. Describing them as an oddity seems to fit.

Then the conversation turns again. Why are they white? If the windmills were painted a more natural color, they would blend into the environment more, becoming a bit less of an oddity.

Today I googled this question and I haven’t found an expert answer as to why the windmills are white. I have found that others question this too when communities do not complain about noise or danger. Instead, communities complain that they are ugly.

I hope our county could find a location that will work. That will only happen if a compromise is met to enable the windmills to fade into the background and not be a contrary existence to the historic objective of our community.

*Technically, I should say wind turbine. But many people still think of them as wind mills so I share this story as it took place.

New Green Home Listing

2009-03-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

I just put up a post over at Outdoor Living, but since it is relevant to Green Home Living, I'm going to mention it here.

Jeni just listed a very unique property. Off the grid, private and located on 40 acres with wonderful water, this home has more potential for green living than most.

Have a look at Could You Imagine This Life?

Shopping Made a Little Bit Easier!

2009-03-18T07:28:00.000-07:00

After 100 years of the Seal of Approval, Good Housekeeping is keeping up with the times by adding a new seal. The Green Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.

Good Housekeeping has been a trusted source of testing products, so it is good to see them using their resources to help the consumer figure out what is true in this current trend of 'green products'. I've been overwhelmed by the green marketing efforts companies have made, and I figured many other people have been too. This comes as a relief for those busy people who really don't have the time to research their options before making purchases. When you see the seal on a product, you know it has been independently studied to meet their stringent criteria.

2009-03-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Celebrate green, have a wonderful time and be safe!

Radiant Barriers

2009-03-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

Checking out the EcoBroker website for what's new and interesting in Eco-Friendly homes, I come across something I haven't hear of before. Radiant Barriers? This is a way to improve the efficiency of your insulation and it is an affordable upgrade.

The Radiant Barrier is an additional layer of insulation. In the warmer months, the barrier reflects heat from being absorbed into the attic area. During the cooler months, it can help prevent heat from escaping through your roof.

Costs range from .02 to .31 a square foot, depending on location of installation, manufacturer and whether you hire the work out or do it yourself.

Read more on this technique for maximizing energy efficiency at their site.
EcoBroker Radiant Barriers

More on Passive Cooling....

2009-03-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

In addition to making the most of shade to cool your home, attic fans do alot of work to minimize heat build up.

Adding an attic fan can run in range of price, from $100+. I think the most Eco friendly option is a solar attic fan kit. There are a variety of options on the market, usually running $200-$300. You can choose from options that install on the roof or gable. By choosing solar, you also save installation cost by avoiding having to run an electrical source to the fan's location.

There are many advantages of adding an attic fan.

First and foremost, you help the environment by lowering energy consumption cooling your home! If you have air conditioning, an attic fan allows heat to exhaust from the attic so the air conditioning unit doesn't have to work so hard.

You can extend the life of your roof. Roofing is exposed to tough conditions externally. When the heat builds in your attic, the roof materials suffer from the inside as well.

In cold winter climates, the fan helps exhaust humidity. Snow loads can melt from the bottom up and turn to sheets of ice. I have experience with ice building up on a northern corner of my roof until it backed up under my shingles. Now I know why!

Humidity buildup in the attic can be prevented. Humidity can cause mold growth in the attic that may eventually extend to the walls. By exhausting the humidity you have decreased the climate mold requires to grow!

Popular Mechanics has an outstanding article to give you an idea of what installation of an attic fan entails. Click on the picture for a link to the article!

Passive Cooling is Beautiful Too

2009-03-11T05:22:00.000-07:00

When we bought our house, we were faced with deciding the best way to keep it cool on the occasional hot periods we have. At our elevation, 6200 ft, we have cool nights. Our house is also protected from sun by a high hill on the western side that gives us early shade. But, we still have those periods where the house is sweltering in the summer.

We had a friend who offered to install A/C for us since all the ducting was already in place for the heating system. That would still cost a couple of thousand dollars for the condenser, as well as the electricity and noise. I have no idea where we would put it because the layout just didn't accommodate that addition. Plus, I hate electric noises that are non stop. So we politely declined.

For the same initial investment, we built an arbor across the southern and western sides of our house. During the summer, we drape it with fire-resistant cloth and it does a wonderful job cooling the house. Yeah, no additional electric expense! Plus, it is a really attractive addition to the house.

By going this route, I am still able to take advantage of passive heating in the winter. The shade is not permanent like a roof would be, so when we remove the cloth in the fall, the sun is able to subsidize our heating. The best of both world's in trying to live an Eco friendly lifestyle!

The minute the fabric went up and cast it's shadow over the windows, the house dropped 20 degrees. At the time, I didn't understand that this concept had a name....passive cooling.

Every home has different needs.

You can find many more passive cooling solutions at

Build It Solar.

A Real Estate Agency that Understands Your Needs

2009-03-09T15:36:00.001-07:00

To those who want to live smarter, not harder...
To those who don't like waste and inefficiency...
To those who don't know where to start buying or selling...
To those who dream of their perfect green home, but don't know where to begin...

Outdoor and Resort Properties is the Certified Eco-Broker who understands your needs and will help guide your through the changing real estate market.

More people are becoming aware of their impact on our planet. Real estate decisions have a major influence on the health of our planet. When looking for help in living an Eco Friendly Lifestyle, always choose someone who is current on the latest technologies and research. This is an excellent way to advance your desire to enjoy a clean and free life.

"Do It Yourself" Energy Audit

2009-03-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

I found this really interesting website. It is a 'Do It Yourself' Energy Audit at The Home Energy Saver website. The site is sponsored by the US Department of Energy.

Based on the information you provide about your home, this calculates your potential energy savings by upgrading your home. This includes everything from insulation to appliances.

Unfortunately, the site can not calculate my particular zip code. So to check it out, I used a relatives address and it was really informative. You have to gather some information first, such as the price you're paying per kWh and fuel, but most information required is stuff home owners already know about their house. (square footage, windows, etc.) The more information you provide, the better feedback you will receive.

If you've thought about having an energy audit performed on your home, but cost is an issue, this is a start. I would still recommend having an official audit performed.

Protecting the Garden

2009-03-02T06:51:00.000-08:00

this is a cross post with Outdoor and Resort Properties lifestyle blog

The wind is howling, shingles are flying off roof tops and I'm spending my time shopping for information on bamboo fencing to protect my vegetable garden this summer. Seems fitting.

In the past, I've attached plain canvass drop cloths to my fence around my raised beds. It was an affordable solution to slow the winds and provide relief from the sun for more tender plants. Over time the winds ripped the fabric from it's anchors (½ x5x8 blocks of wood, screwed to each other from both sides of the fence) This method did work for a couple of years, and it worked well but I want to try something that is less of an eye-sore, eco-friendly and sturdier.

For several years now, I've been looking at bamboo fencing. Well, looking and waiting for the price to come down. It has become more readily available, so now you can find rolls 6X15 feet long for as low as $59. These rolls are bamboo poles attached together by galvanized wire. Dealers offer various accessories but for my purpose they won't be necessary. I simply need something to attach to the existing fence, that will allow air to circulate, filter sunlight and decrease the power of the punishing winds.

This is still a lot more expensive than canvass but I think it will meet my needs. In the long run, I hope the cost of investing in bamboo fencing will justify itself!

Recycle Your Water

2009-02-27T14:34:00.000-08:00

Recycling water can be one of the best ways to help the environment. Especially for those of us who garden, live on a well and have to maintain a septic system.

A couple of years ago, our clay became so saturated with moisture from snow melt, that our leech field was unable to do it's job. With that comes the most awful situation of having your septic tank back up. (A quick primer: septic tank has 2 chambers, the first holds solids, the second is overflow for fluids which overflows into a series of hole pipes allowing the fluids to filter and 'leech' back into the ground.) We called in help. We had our septic tank pumped. We had our leech field lines blown out. But the professionals could only advise contacting an engineer to design a system to prevent this from happening.

Since I didn't have $40-60K sitting around, I researched alternative methods to solve my problem.

Between the research, professional advice and looking at our micro-climate, I realized we have a problem with how much water the ground could sustain. I managed to convince my husband that the quickest solution was re-routing our water softener and washing machine water through a 500 gallon tank for distribution at our convenience.

This solved two problems.

First, our softener system left salt residue in the water which could be causing our leech field to glaze, much like pottery. There was no way to really know this without bringing in serious equipment to dig up the field and analyze the soil. Nope, I didn't have time, or money for that. But, most professionals will recommend you NOT route your softener water into your septic system.

Second, we were using the mass quantity of laundry water to dilute the salt water, as well as penetrate our clay soil. Clay can be full of nutrients but is so compact that it holds water (instead of draining) or it can dry out to the point of water not penetrating the surface.

This water is wonderful for helping my natural landscaping receive the water it needed in times of drought as well as saving me a lot of money fixing a system that wasn't necessarily broken. It just needed an owner that was smart enough to work with the environment!

Conserving Water in Your Garden

2009-02-25T09:01:00.000-08:00

Water conservation is an extremely important consideration when it comes to gardening in the high mountain desert. I find myself considering water consumption with every plant I start, or buy. I have done my best to install, and maintain, a drip line to efficiently water my gardens. But I'm always looking for new, low maintenance ways of watering.

I have a neighborhood friend who's house is on a high point in the center of her 3 acre property. She is the one who taught me the unique use for directing, and collecting, the water we are rarely graced with in the summer months. With the house at the top, her gardens are terraced to completely surround her home. But instead of using rocks, or building walls, she instead dug the indespensible ditch depressions we call swales. Watching her garden grow, lush with very little supplemental water, taught me the value of this technique.

My property has an odd shape. The front terrain flows down hill, away from the house, in a natural way. The back is completely different. Out my back door, the land has a strong slope from the right to the left. This would leave the path of least resistance for water to flow directly towards my house.

I used my friend's technique to build a swale through the center of my back garden, following the downhill slope to serve many purposes. In the desert, when it rains, we tend to get 'gully washers'. The clay ground is so very dry, that the water doesn't absorb. Then the rain can be so powerful, that is carries away everything in its path, recreating the land every time it comes through. The swale does a lot of work by it's very existence.

The swale is filled with large (2+ inch rock) to make a walking path while being heavy enough to not wash away. It directs water along a controlled path to the bottom of my garden, where it becomes slightly deeper, to collect water for deep soaking the more water hungry part of my garden. I've intentionally planted the bottom section of my garden with the plants needing more water so they can take advantage of any extra water collected naturally. But the path of the swale also curves off away from my house, so that in a most extreme case, the water is redirected safely away from causing any more damage than necessary to my home.

This is a simple way to conserve water, as well as add appeal to any garden.
Thanks for all your help Linda!

Conserving Energy: Appliances

2009-02-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

Investing in Energy Star appliances has many advantages. You save on energy consumption, and you save money. One of these advantages should be important to everyone, if not both. From tax credits to smaller fuel, or electric bills, this is something I'm always amazed people still do not consider.

There is also the need for maintenance of your appliances. Hot water heaters have an anode that prevents corrosion inside and needs to be replaced to extend the life, and efficiency of your hot water heater. If you are a do-it-yourself type of person, the biggest expense is time. If you need to call in a repair man, you may want to consider the expense of the work, versus replacing your heater.

Another important item everyone should have is a long skinny bristle brush for cleaning the lint out of the dryer to cleaning the coils on your refrigerator. A repairman once told me that if we don't clean our coils, we'll have higher a higher electric bill and have to replace our refrigerator sooner. I haven't been without one since. But I find the brushes flexibility really helpful for sweeping out the lint that stays in the dryer vent and the stuff that stays behind when I clean the screen. It is a handy tool that everyone should have around.

Sometimes the simplest things can do the most good in being a good conservator of our planet.

Do You Bamboo?

2009-02-20T08:20:00.000-08:00

Several years ago bamboo became the trendy 'good luck' plant to have in our home or office. Those neat, swirly shapes that grew in water had been common in Asian lives for many years before we discovered their versatility.

I think the trend petered out when people were appalled at the algae growing due to stagnant water and too lazy to simply change the water and clean the container.

But the amazing thing about this plant is the correlation between a trend and the serious impact this plant has made on our world. I've heard many gardeners bemoan the invasiveness of this plant. Now we have discovered Bamboo's potential for helping our planet.

As a homeowner, the best use of bamboo is flooring. The affordable choices are beautiful and available everywhere now. Bamboo has become a more common fiber. These things have been around for a very long time but now more people are discovering the many common uses for this highly renewable resource. So I ask, do you Bamboo?

Research at Bioversity International

Wind Energy is for Everyone

2009-02-18T08:16:00.000-08:00

Mariah - Cover girl for Wind Energy

Living in a rural, mountain, WINDY area, I've often considered the benefits of wind energy. Our neighborhood often debates the pros and cons of the properties with wind mills. I never tend to see an eyesore. I do see a lot of questions. Do they have a steady wind to make this feasible? How much stress can that device handle? How much did the investment cost versus energy savings? Oh the questions never end.

I had a neighbor email me recently with information on a wind machine I'd never heard of before. Mariah Power. Maybe it is silly, but I thought it was pretty neat that this machine has a personal name. I look the company up and I'm more happy because they are local, located in Reno. Ok, so far, I'm easy to please. But the more I read, the nuts and bolts become impressive as well. To summarize their site, it is quite, attractive, simple and yet high tech.

I pick up the phone and call, because wrapping my brain around the concept of wind energy is like reading Greek.

The Run Down: $5995 MSRP, $1-2K for installation and since they are local, shipping costs. The unit is 30 feet high with a 4 foot diameter, with everything included (inverter, generator, etc.) and has a 20 year life expectancy. The next step would be to figure my tax credit and NV Power rebates. This looks like a relatively small expense.

I recommend giving them a call. They will patiently answer your questions or direct you to a dealer.

How do I know where to put it, and if it will work for my situation? The gentleman I talked to said I could invest in a good anonometer for about $500. I'm ok with this if I plan to make an energy investment like this. But I've heard about hiring an expert to come to your home and analyze your property. He says that is and option but they will likely to an intensive case study with specialized equipment and the expense can be high. I think it comes down to how complex the microclimate of the property is and your budget. My property isn't extremely large so I would go with the anonometer that I can plug into my computer to translate the data for me.
I'm excited! I can harness wind energy for my personal use at a price I can afford and a system I can manage!

Mariah Power Headquarters
5470 Louie Lane, Suite 104
Reno, Nevada 89511
Tel: (775) 857-4888
Fax: (775) 201-0467

Buying Basics for Finding Your Green Home

2009-02-16T08:09:00.000-08:00

You know you want a Green Home. Do you know what you're really getting? I found an article that details basic things you really need to find to achieve your goal.

“If you're in the market to buy a home or condo in Reno NV or anywhere else in Nevada, you've probably noticed that many homeowners promote the green benefits of their property, boasting that it's as energy-efficient as they come. The truth is often different. The sellers may be touting the house as environmentally friendly because they've replaced regular incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents, but the appliances in the kitchen date to the avocado and harvest gold era of the 1970s.”

Unearth the Facts to Buy a Greener Home

Look for:

Energy Star Appliances

Efficient Heating and Cooling System

Home Energy Rating System Audit (HERS report)

Water Saving Landscaping

This is a great start to finding a Green Home!