Redding Ca Real Estate : November 2007

We have all heard the terms but where to go?

Looking for an expert source for all your alternative energy needs? Just go here now. 

I also have provided some links for you to some excellent websites for you to bookmark and use. There are tons of sites out there and if you have noticed in the last 6 months or so there are more coming online everyday!

Being or living Green isn't a fad it will be mainstream someday soon once people wake up and understand. Once you get the information that you need to make good decisions then it will be a no brainer for most people to pick the eco friendly options that they have. 

The links that I promised:

www.lowimpactliving.com

www.buildinggreen.com

Regards,

Rick Goates

ECO Broker

Keller Williams Realty

Redding CA

530-248-5627 

Walmart is even looking at going "Green". Wow...now you have people's attention. One of the largest retailers in the WORLD is testing solar on some of it's operations.Walmart wants to be using 100% renewable energy in all it's operations soon according to it's vice president of energy. Let me tell you one thing with the amount of energy that this company uses what ever it does will be noticed.

Read more about this article here now. 

Walmart is starting to carry more and more environmentally friendly products that should sell well as the have the numbers going through there stores to purchase them. Imagine getting environmentally friendly items at 10-20% off and saving the environment in the process! Wow it might be cheaper soon to do what's right and have good choices!

Regards,

Rick Goates

ECO Broker

Keller Williams Realty

Redding CA 

Buy land they aren't making anymore of it! We have all heard this one at least once in our lives but now some experts are singing this tune! Jim Jubak in his article on MSN today mentions many reasons that now is a great time to buy some land. If you think about it he is right on many accounts.Some developers have projects that they are willing to sell cheap as they missed the market. There are also opportunities to purchase raw land and hold until the market comes back. When the market does come back there will be developers looking for raw land again on which to build homes.

It's all a cycle. It just depends on which part of the cycle that you land.

You can read more about the reasons that buying land NOW make sense here.

If he is even half correct there will be a lot of people looking for land soon...better hurry! 

Regards

Rick Goates 

Beer...it's not just for breakfast anymore some say. The price of beer in the future will be going up that is for sure but just how much is the question? You see the farmers out there over the years have stopped growing hops and have switched over to corn. Why you may ask? Well they feel that the future fuel in the USA will be ethanol and they want to get a jump on getting their corn crops in and growing as there will be a HUGE need for A LOT more corn when and if this starts gaining steam.

What this means for the average Joe is that if you drink beer and the breweries are paying twice as much for their hops to make their beers then the consumer will be paying more for his brew ski. Pretty simple math her folks.Just another reason that I am not for using food crops to help with our over dependence on foreign oil problem.

There is an very interesting plant that they are growing over in India right now. It is a bush that grows (non edible) and the nut that this bush produces has an oil in it that contains about 30-35% oil. It can be used for Bio Diesel. Now the Indian's are a very smart group of people because they are putting people to work over there that would not otherwise have work and they are poising themselves to be a world leader in Bio Diesel alternative fuel soon!!

Let's keep the food crops for food and not take food off of the tables and raise food prices for the poor!! Let's look at alternatives to using food crops for FUEL!!

Regards,

Rick Goates

ECO Broker

I just filled up a couple days ago...$62.15 was the total...OWCH. There are some interesting new prototypes out there right now if you are in the market for a vehicle that gets at least 100MPG. Now they aren't four seater's and they are not large etc but if you want a thrill to drive AND you want to help the environment by having a vehicle that gets excellent mileage check these out.

There was talk years and years ago that the large oil companies bought up a carburetor that was made that could deliver 100 mpg. Now they can't do that as these prototype companies that are building these vehicles won't allow that to happen.

The one vehicle is made right here in California and is scheduled to go into production early next year (2008) with a waiting list to purchase. The Aptera is a cross between a plane and a motorcycle and a car! Wow...a plane without wings!! It claims that it can get between 200-300 MPG!!! I want to see more info on this one as it has air conditioning in it which would be a HUGE plus here in Redding with our 100 degree summers.

The other vehicle is made overseas and I believe it is Dutch made. It is called the Carver. And true to it's name it carves some very interesting turns! A cross between something in a science fiction move and a motorcycle.

Another new start up in Southern California is producing the Venture one vehicle that promises 100+ MPG.

Now lets not forget about the Tesla either here.This is an incredible car and different from the above vehicles. Now at a base price of $98k and then add for options this baby won't be for everyone out there.It's a true car and not as unique as the others the Aptera and the the Venture One. These two are more like motorcycles and small commute vehicles.

Here are some photos for you to look at of our area.The greater Redding area has something for everyone. Yes it gets hot in the summer for a couple months but if it didn't then there would be 400,000 living here instead of the 100,000 that we currently have now. I have been all over the western United States and the only place that I would even consider close to this area for beauty,what it offers etc are parts of Colorado.Parts of Colorado remind me of parts of the north state like up around Mt Shasta and the McCloud area.

If you like the outdoors this is a great place to bike,hike,explore and 4x4. The springs and the Fall are my two favorite times here. The Winters are not too bad and the Summers are warm..sometimes very warm.

I hope you enjoyed the photo tour of our area that I took for you? Some of these I paid a pro to do.It give you a feel for what this area has to offer...Just a small taste!

Regards

Rick Goates

ECO/e-PRO Broker Assoc

Keller Williams Realty

Redding California

530-248-5627 

Low what? Low VOC paints. There are now many choices to choose from when it comes time to paint or re paint your home. It is amazing what they have out there now to choose from that they didn't even 5 years ago.

Theres a company out there green seal that certifies products as environmentally friendly. 

It was a slow shift for manufactures to start making some better paints. With technology now available to do this and do it for a reasonable price I think we will see some more options come out each and every year as more people start becoming aware and asking for and purchasing these products. It's like anything if the demand is there the supply will make it happen.

It is so much easier to be green now with so many options. It was easy not to make environmentally friendly choices years ago because there were so few options out there. Now with all the choices it only makes sense...

Here is a great link for you to learn more about Low-VOC paints.

Heres to eco painting!

Regards,

Rick Goates

ECO Broker 

Everyone moves...it's a matter of time not when. There are many choices that one has when they do move that affect the environment.In stead of just throwing away all that stuff that you think is junk consider these options.

1. Take the items that are usable to the local Salvation Army so they can sell them and help their cause!

2.Contact some local charities-they may even come and get some of the items.

3. Contact the local flea market operator and have them take everything you don't want.

4.Donate your older books to schools,libraries,charities etc.

5.If you have some old antiques talk with a local antique dealer to take them and give you a percentage.

6.Donate food items that you don't want to the local food bank.

7.Reuse packing material,boxes etc. You can often break down your boxes and store them in the garage.

8.Purchase environmentally friendly cleaning products.

Here is a link to help you get more info on moving and what you can do to make a difference.

Regards,

Rick Goates 

Everyone seems to be in the same boat. We are all too busy with too many things to do and not enough time in the day. At the end of the day we all say the same thing-wow where did that day go? I am not saying that some time management skills wouldn't hurt!! They would...in fact I signed up for some coaching recently to give me a good kick in the b... Take time out for yourself...that is important. Whether you are into photography or bike racing or what ever make sure that you make time to have some fun! All work and no play does indeed make Johnny a dull boy.

Schedule time each week just for you!

Make it happen!

Regards

Rick Goates

With Thanksgiving just around the corner and Christmas right behind it I ask that you take a minute out of your busy schedule to contemplate what you are thankful for. Even in the worst of times there are things that everyone can be thankful for. I am thankful for my family, my friends, my clients and so many other things.This time of the year tends to be stressful and for some a depressing time. 

We all have at least one thing that we can be thankful for-we just have to take a moment and contemplate.

You deserve to give yourself some quite time...some down time away from the hustle and bustle especially around the holidays.You deserve it...make it happen! 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours and make it a safe one out there!! 

Regards,

Rick Goates

We have to look at the downturn in the market as an excellent time to learn and grow. Yes we have to make a living but when in the past couple of years have you had more time on your hands then now? With advanced education usually comes more opportunities to get in front of and help more people that need to buy or sell real estate in your particular area!

If you have an interest in learning more about the internet,technology and how you can be more successful with an e-PRO designation just click here now to get all the info that you need.

That's the best thing about learning more...it expands your abilities and let's you help your clients in new and better ways.

Regards,

Rick Goates

e-PRO Broker Assoc

Keller Williams Realty

Redding 

Do you have a swimming pool that you want to heat but don't want to pay $300 a month in the winter? Solar systems make sense if you are going to swim year round or live in the cool mountains etc and heat your pool during many months.

Most solar pool heating systems contain the following items:

A solar collector — the device through which pool water is circulated to be heated by the sun

A filter — removes debris before water is pumped through the collector

A pump — circulates water through the filter and collector and back to the pool

A flow control valve — automatic or manual device that diverts pool water through the solar collector.

Many times people put the heating mechanism up on the garage roof or a roof that isn't as visible from the street.

A typical solar pool heating system will run $3-5k for purchase and installation.It's not for everyone but if you are interested in long term payback and heating with an environmentally friendly source then it may be worth a look.

You can find out more about solar pool heating alternative here now. 

Regards,

Rick Goates 

The days are numbered for the old fashioned 40-50 gal hot water heater that you see in many garages across the land. Tank less water heater are better...much better. I mean think about it. Heating water that just sits there all day doesn't make much sense. On demand tank less systems that run on gas are very efficient.

On demand or instant units only provide hot water "When Needed". That is a savings right there.No storage tank= not wasted energy used to heat water that will only sit around and get cold again only to be heated again etc.

Gas fired units provide more water per minute than electric and are more efficient.On demand units can save the typical homeowner 24-34% on their water heating bills.

Sometimes  your application will require two or more of these units so be sure and find out what you need.

Here is a good resource to help you learn more about on demand, tank less systems.

Regards,

Rick Goates

http://www.inforedding.com

530-248-5627 

We have all heard that you are what you eat. What about this for something to ponder. You are what you breathe! Many Americans indoor air is more polluted than the outdoor air!! Of course if you live in LA it's a toss up...lol.

Consider whole house ventilation in your home if you are doing a remodel or if you are getting ready to build.

There are 4 types of whole house ventilation systems-

• Exhaust ventilation systems

  Force inside air out of a home.

• Supply ventilation systems

  Force outside air into the home.

• Balanced ventilation systems

  Force equal amounts quantities of air into and out of the home.

• Energy recovery ventilation systems

  Transfer heat from incoming or outgoing air to minimize energy loss.These are used when natural ventilation is not an alternative.
  

• To read up on what these have to offer just go here now and get more info that may improve your health.
• Even using the higher Merv filters can make the air better in your home. Have you ever seen what's on one of those when you change it out? Wow...and to think that you breathe that stuff!!

Heres to your health!!

Regards, 

 Rick Goates 

With all the buzz around about foreclosures it is important to know the facts from the fiction. If you are behind on your payments then you should know some of the most famous scams to avoid. They are as follows:

Phantom Help out of nowhere-The rescuer charges outrageous fees and actually prevents you from finding someone that can actually help you get your home sold-like a Realtor. He or she gives you a false sense of security.

The Bailout- This scam is where they talk you into signing over the home and say that they will sell it back to you or work with you to buy it back later....later never happens!

The Old Bait and Switch- This one is where they want you to sign some forms to help you bring your mortgage current only you are signing it over to them!

To read more about this topic just click here now to read an interesting article. 

If you are in a tough spot contact a Realtor immediately to help you get your property sold before foreclosure. If you are behind on your payments you don't have much time and want to talk with a "Short Sale Expert" This is a Realtor that has done these types of transactions and is familiar with how they work and how to get the banks to take less. 

Regards,

Rick Goates

http://www.inforedding.com

Yes indeed, it is a buyers market right now...no doubt about it. It is not a sellers market and it is is not a Waiters market it is a full blown Buyers Market. What does that mean to you if you are a buyer? It means that NOW is the best time in probably the last 20 years to purchase. Why you might be thinking? Well the deals are here now and when the market comes back....and it will then the deals will go QUICKLY. Lets face it once every one is on the same page and says "Hey things are changing" then the deals will go POOF.

Real estate should be looked at as longer term not short term. Short term buyers have been impacted-yes there is no doubt about it. My parents have some friends that have had the bad luck of purchasing 2-3 homes over the years at the TOP and having to sell at the Bottom. Good thing that they have stayed put on the last one!

There are tremendous opportunities out there right now if you are a Buyer. If you are a seller and can wait...Wait! If you need to sell now then price appropriately to have a chance.

When shopping or researching the local MLS you can see the homes here now in Shasta County.

Regards,

Rick Goates 

There are so many choices out there today for wood flooring. I remember back as a kid there was wood flooring...usually under carpet that was the actual real wood strips-the old hardwood so to say and that was about it. Today there are hundreds of choices to choose from. Whether you have allergies or just want the look of wood on the floor here are some resources to check out to get more info.

Wood floors can help sell a home quicker. They appeal to most buyers in the market place today and I have seen some incredible looks in todays products.You can choose from Pergo,actual hardwood,laminate and various other products. They are easy to clean compared to tile etc are renewable-they come from tree's and offer many other benefits that you can read about here.

Wood is good......

Regards,

Rick Goates 

Bamboo flooring? I know some of you are thinking what the? But yes there is a great product that has been out for many years but is now pretty much main stream. It is Bamboo flooring.Bamboo is technically a grass not a wood so it lends itself well to adding to your green remodel or build.It is a very hard, strong an stable flooring so many people are very happy with their choice when they go this route.

On the Environmental side it's really hard to knock a product such as Bamboo that matures in 3 years,regenerates itself without replanting(Saving labor) requires little to no pesticides or fertilizer and requires little maintenance. The largest species of bamboo has been used for 1000+ years in Asian communities.

Most bamboo flooring comes from China. It makes sense since they have been using it for so long and it has been a a part of their culture for many many years.

We just have "Gotten it" here recently in the U.S. Hey better late than never right?

Regards,

Rick Goates

Website 

I spent some time at Shasta Builders exchange with a great guy John Gaines on Friday. We took a look at agree park that is in process. Agree Park is a model built project that showcases 3 homes from local area Architects. It was great to see that even extremely well known Master Architect "Les Melberg" was involved in this project. Les is a very highly talented master of Architecture.Taking the time to work on this project shows his depth,commitment and understanding.

So we went over the new Earth Advantage showroom that the Builders Exchange is working on and by the way it will be Leed Certified also! They have a nice plan there and I am excited to be able to have a place to take clients to look at some of the products and feature that they can use in their new homes that will help the environment and provide them with a nice looking alternative.

The park-Agree Park is a joint project that Shasta Builders Exchange has put together to show the public that yes you can have an environmentally friendly home that won't break the bank account!

One of the homes has a straw bale wall on the south side that will provide additional insulating factors and help save energy alone with increase the comfort of the owners.

Supporters of this project are as follows:

Supporters of AGREE Park:

Shasta Builders’ Exchange

Shasta Builders’ Exchange Training Center

City of Redding

City of Redding Redevelopment Agency

City of Redding Electric Utility

Earth Advantage

City of Redding Water Utility

Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Habitat for Humanity

The McConnell Foundation

Shasta College

Congressman Wally Herger

Assemblyman Doug Lamalfa

Go and check it out when it is done it is a great project with great people involved that will certainly help educate the consumer and Realtors on building this new way!

Regards,

Rick Goates

Website