KEISHA TOMPKINS - OCT-2024 - HOME SWEET HOME

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770-843-8184 keishatompkins@kw.com www.keishatsells.com

courtesy of: Keisha Tompkins

Dear Homeowners Welcome to the October 2024 issue of Home Sweet Home! This edition shares tips and ideas to help you enjoy this cozy season while making sure that your home is resilient for the future. In this issue, we focus on resilient home construction and upgrades. You’ll find expert advice on materials, architectural choices, and contractor selection to help you build or upgrade a home that can withstand natural disasters and protect your investment. Explore why sustainability is a smart choice for your home. Learn how eco-friendly upgrades can reduce your carbon footprint, lower your bills, and boost your property’s value. If you’re curious about solar power, don’t miss our guide on how to get started, from installation to potential savings.

And what’s fall without some tasty seasonal treats? We’ve included recipes that capture the essence of autumn, perfect for bringing warmth to your kitchen.

We hope this issue inspires you this autumn. As always, if you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell, I’m here to help.

Best wishes,

Keisha Tompkins Keller Williams Realty Atlanta Partners

770-843-8184 keishatompkins@kw.com www.keishatsells.com 2092 Scenic Hwy N Snellville, Ga 30078

Why Sustainable Updates are Smart Home Choices 04 Table of Contents

When it comes to upgrading your home, sustainability is more than just an eco- friendly choice—it’s a smart investment. From reducing your carbon footprint to increasing your home’s resale value, sustainable upgrades offer tangible financial benefits. Discover how energy-efficient appliances, green roofing, and smart landscaping can not only lower your bills but also boost your property’s market appeal. Whether you’re planning a major renovation or looking for small, impactful changes, this guide will help you make decisions that are both environmentally and financially rewarding. How to Future-Proof Your Home Investment: EXPERT TIPS FOR RESILIENT HOME CONSTRUCTION Learn how to future-proof your new home while safeguarding both your peace of mind and your property’s value. Understanding how to design structures that can withstand natural disasters is key to protecting your investment. This article offers expert advice on materials, architectural choices, and contractor selection to help you build a home that stands strong against the elements.

Fall’s Hearty Harvest 3 MUST-TRY SOUPS AND STEWS • Butternut Squash Soup • Beef and Barley Stew • Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup Everything You Need to Know About Solar Power Curious about harnessing the sun's energy for your home? Solar power offers a unique blend of environmental benefits and long- term cost savings, but there are many factors to consider before making the leap. From understanding how solar panels work to evaluating the costs, potential savings, and whether a DIY approach is feasible, this guide covers it all.

October 2024

WHY SUSTAINABLE UPDATES ARE SMART HOME CHOICES

As homeowners we have endless options when it comes to choosing building materials, home decor, and systems for electricity and water. It can be overwhelming to think about, especially when trying to decide what changes to make that are not only good for your pocketbook, but also for the environment. Given the choice, most people would rather invest in natural materials and energy-saving appliances, but each of those sustainable upgrades comes with an upfront cost. So how do you know when it’s worth it to fork out the extra dough? It depends on many factors including your budget, location, and values.

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WHICH UPGRADES ARE RIGHT FOR YOUR HOME? UNDERSTANDING EMBODIED AND OPERATIONAL CARBON

The construction industry is responsible for 40% of the world’s carbon emissions.

If you own a pre-built home, much of the embodied carbon is out of your hands, but you hold all the power when it comes to renovations, restorations, and even decor swaps. Each decision you make can raise or lower your environmental footprint and have an effect on the resale value of your home should you choose to sell in the future. For some guidance in this discussion we reached out to regenerative interior and product designer Laurence Carr. Carr is a committee member and advisor to the United Nations Conscious Fashion and Lifestyle Network as well as a sustainability ambassador to Maison et Objet. As creator, executive producer, and host of her EarthxTV original series “Chez Laurence,” she showcases innovations toward circularity and sustainability in the design industry and the built environment with each episode. Carr says, “Prioritizing sustainable upgrades requires balancing operational and embodied carbon considerations.” This is an ongoing process that includes a combination of big and small actions. As a rule, if an upgrade is suitable for your home, it will pay for itself over time and be a good move for the environment. When considering your options, remember that even if you don’t stay in your home long enough to break even, having a home with eco- friendly features will make it more valuable when you sell.

This occurs through a combination of the materials used in construction, commonly referred to as embodied carbon, and the carbon emissions released during the life of the structure, called operational carbon. During construction, the builder and/or the homeowner can make valuable upgrades that eliminate waste, replace synthetic materials with natural ones, and improve efficiency. Think about it this way. Every product used in construction leaves a trail of greenhouse gasses as it is manufactured, transported, installed, and disposed of. However, conscientious decisions about product selection can significantly reduce that embodied carbon footprint. This includes things like minimizing the use of concrete and steel, increasing natural light, positioning the home to optimize natural heating and cooling, airtight construction, superior insulation, and high-quality windows. The other part of the carbon footprint comes from operational carbon. This is the carbon released by the daily activities within the home, such as heating, cooling, cooking, and using power. Ultra-efficient houses are known as passive houses, and they use just 10% of the energy most homes require. That’s a massive, and measurable, savings for your pocketbook and the planet.

October 2024

GO BIG

Depending on where you live, solar panels can be a valuable upgrade. With continual power produced by the sun, you can reduce or eliminate the need to buy additional power. Oftentimes you can even produce excess solar power to sell back to the grid. This is a highly regional consideration, but one that’s worthwhile in the right climate. EcoWatch puts into perspective saying, “The cost of solar panels has dropped in price by more than 70% over the last decade, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Solar panels still carry a significant price tag, however, and may not work well for every home.” So is upgrading to solar panels worth it? Its worth depends on your situation. A heat pump is another high-ticket item you’ll probably benefit from if you live in the right climate. With an upfront cost ranging from $8,000 to $30,000, it’s a massive investment so it’s important to note heat pumps lose efficiency when the outdoor temp drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In warmer climates, however, a heat pump will pay for itself in about 10 years and will offer substantial energy savings. Its worth also depends on your situation. A new roof is another major consideration for any home. The cost of roof replacement has increased significantly in the past 10 years and will probably continue to rise. Fortunately, the cost of eco-friendly options is coming down, closing the gap on additional expenses. Like solar panels, the right roof for

you is contingent upon the climate where you live and the architecture of the home. Some styles to consider include tile, solar roofs, metal sheets, wood shingles, and green/living roofs. The right fit can provide durability and substantial energy savings. Worth it in most circumstances. Carr agrees that making roofing and other project decisions are highly dependent on location. She says, “Regional factors influence choices, such as climate and local regulations,” but that thinking outside the box can offer a big payback. She continues, “Innovative solutions like modular green roofs and eco- friendly insulation often go unnoticed but offer significant benefits to homeowners.”

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While replacing your roof or all the windows in your house might blow your budget, there are many steps you can take on a smaller scale. Carr suggests, “For manageable and affordable actions, homeowners can focus on energy-efficient lighting, smart thermostats, and low-flow fixtures.” For a few hundred dollars homeowners can install energy efficient bulbs and motion lights that automatically turn on when needed. A smart thermostat is programmable for temperature control, but also controllable via an app so you can turn the heat or AC down when no one is home. In the kitchen and bathroom, swapping out the faucets and shower heads can add up to big water savings too. Worth it. GO SMALL

October 2024

GO SOMEWHERE IN THE MIDDLE Most home systems and product upgrades happen when it’s time to replace something that’s worn out. So when the water heater goes belly up or the washing machine refuses to agitate, consider it an opportunity to invest in a sustainable upgrade.

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WATER HEATER

APPLIANCE UPGRADES

Chances are, you got 10-20 years out of your water heater. In that time, there have been many notable advancements in the design and technology of those devices that heat our water. It won’t take long to find an energy-efficient model. You might also look into a solar-heated option for maximum savings in the right climate. Another efficient upgrade is a tankless water system. Tankless systems are available in electric, propane, or natural gas fueled models. They work by heating water as it travels through the coils, rather than constantly working to maintain heated water in a traditional water heater tank. You can install one central tankless system or use a separate unit for each area. The central units are more common and only take up a small space not much larger than the household circuit box. However, you can also choose units to install beneath each sink to provide hot water to each bathroom and kitchen. Tankless water heaters will save you money. A conservative estimate is $100 or more per year for the typical family. In addition, because they do not store water, the risk of serious water damage to your home from a leaking water tank is significantly reduced. Some state and federal refunds or credits may also be available if you install a tankless water system in your home. Worth it.

When it comes to sustainability, sometimes the best course of action is to keep a product in use as long as possible. This keeps it out of the landfill and avoids the production of unnecessary appliances. If you tire of the look, try painting it or building a cabinet around it. However, when an appliance has served its usefulness and it’s time for a replacement, look for the Energy Star. The label will tell you all you need to know about expected usage, and the slightly higher price offers long-term water and energy savings. Also aim to find the brands that are known for dependability so you can keep the same appliance for as long as possible without the need to replace it again. Worth it.

October 2024

Don’t discount the advantages of a well-developed landscape plan as it relates to sustainable design. In addition to green roofs, which can substantially lower the temperature within the home, well placed trees offer shading and temperature control. Sustainable landscaping leans into native species of plants, which increases biodiversity for a healthier backyard ecosystem, reduces the need for water and pesticides, and reduces soil erosion. Of course, plants also filter the air we breathe, and having your own garden will put food on the table too. For hardscaping, consider porous paving tiles, which allow water to run through for seamless irrigation. Usually worth it. LANDSCAPING Even if you decide not to install whole house systems, you can supplement with smaller additions such as a wind or water turbine, a solar panel to heat the hot tub, or a rain catchment system. Its worth depends on your situation. OTHER ADDITIONS

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Going back to the idea that it’s better to keep items in service than to replace them, there are countless ways to freshen up your home without creating excess waste. Try resurfacing the tubs and sinks, repainting light fixtures, and refinishing cabinets. Reupholster furniture, paint bricks, strip and stain wood floors, and apply granite or marble-look paint to transform formica countertops. Worth it for the cost savings and waste reduction. The reality is that any step you take towards a more sustainable home will repay you in a variety of ways, from healthier air to money in the bank. Carr says, “Financial paybacks include increased home value, tax incentives, and ongoing energy and water savings.” It doesn’t come without some sacrifice though. Carr admits, “Common obstacles include upfront costs and a lack of awareness.” Do your research, get a few bids, and decide what’s right for you. YOU CAN ALWAYS REFINISH RATHER THAN UPGRADE

October 2024

HOW TO FUTURE-PROOF YOUR HOME INVESTMENT Expert Tips for Resilient Home Construction With climate change making extreme weather events more common, prospective homeowners are focusing on building resilient homes that can withstand nature's challenges while protecting their investment. Whether you’re preparing to build a home, or are considering a renovation, there are many ways you can build a resilient structure that will withstand whatever natural disasters come your way. To garner some insight into this global issue, we sought the advice of Elizabeth Hausler, PhD, a global expert on resilient housing, post-disaster reconstruction, and systems change. Dr. Hausler is CEO and founder of Build Change, an organization whose “mission is to reduce deaths, injuries, and economic losses caused by housing and school collapses due to earthquakes, extreme weather, and fires—with a vision that every home is disaster resilient.” Her work has influenced global development policy by making resilience a major consideration for reconstruction efforts. In a recent interview with Home Sweet Home , she offered a wealth of information from a wide-angle, global perspective—information we can all use to reinforce our homes and structures.

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Universal Tips for Resilient Structures Although much of Build Change’s work is done in areas such as Central and South America, Africa, and Asia, we asked Dr. Hausler if she could impart any universal building techniques, materials, or architectural elements homeowners in North America could implement. She responded that even at the international level, the organization’s role is to provide support through grants, education, and information. It’s always up to the homeowner to research and make decisions for themselves. She explains, “Build Change promotes homeowner-driven, conditional cash plus technical assistance. Rather than giving someone a house, they are provided with a cash grant plus technical assistance. The cash is given in tranches, contingent upon meeting building standards and ensuring construction quality. The family is not expected to build the house themselves—sweat equity has become an outdated approach—we’re talking about decision equity. Homeowners make the decisions about materials and architecture, and they hire local builders. We find this process to be especially effective when women are the decision makers.”

Her advice to homeowners is that there’s no reason to recreate the wheel. Every area has examples of architecture and materials that have stood the test of time. For example, coastal homes may need to be on stilts. On the other hand, homes in earthquake- prone areas should focus on reinforced foundations. Similarly, roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, metal sheets, or clay tiles, can protect against wind, hail, and fire. “Build Change makes small changes to existing ways of building. In Indonesia, most families we work with prefer a confined masonry house. That’s fired brick masonry walls confined by reinforced concrete columns and beams. The building materials are locally available and relatively affordable. However, often the beams and columns are not connected together properly. They fail, or split open, in earthquakes. So, we promote better connection detailing, among other improvements. It’s a simple change that makes a big difference.”

October 2024

Is It Worth the Cost? When given the option to create a standard-built structure or to add reinforcements, the latter will always cost more. The question quickly becomes whether the additional costs are worth it. Of course you want your home or outbuilding to be protected, but is it a good investment? Yes, if you can afford it. Creating resilient structures typically means better insurance rates, a higher home value, and peace of mind. Plus, it could save your home, a lot of hassle, and potentially your life. We asked Dr. Hausler about her thoughts on the topic and she replied, “It depends greatly upon the starting point—the condition of the existing home. In 2022, Build Change released a study called “The Cost of Improving Vulnerable Housing” based on our international experience [see buildchange.org/ resources/cost-of-improving-housing] In that study, we found that it is much less expensive to strengthen a building to withstand disaster, compared to rebuilding after. This is especially important in markets without property insurance coverage. The average cost of retrofitting homes in our international markets to withstand earthquakes and hurricanes is 23% of the cost of building new.”

Unfortunately, costs can run high for creating resilient structures. Sometimes it’s a low-cost investment, such as adding storm shutters. Other times, an upgrade is simply out of reach for most homeowners. While there are some grant and rebate programs for specific situations, homeowners are mostly on their own when it comes to funding home upgrades. Dr. Hausler agrees, emphasizing, “I wish there were more government and insurance rebates that could be passed directly to the homeowner. Build Change has successfully advocated for such incentives and subsidies in our international programming, such as in Colombia, where the government at various levels - from city-level to national-level - has made available hundreds of millions of dollars for homeowners to strengthen their homes against earthquakes while making other improvements to water, sanitation, and security.” She continues, “In the US, insurance companies should be more proactive about creating incentives for policyholders to retrofit and protect their homes before disaster strikes. They should make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to rebuild a stronger, more resilient home after a loss, and give policy rebates for taking preventive measures. The insurance industry could replicate the incentives they provide to good drivers for proactive homeowners.”

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How to Find a Suitable Contractor If you’re not tackling your project DIY style, you’re probably overwhelmed by finding a contractor to do the job. Before you sign a contract, start by interviewing potential contractors and obtaining bids for the work. Get a feel for their building philosophy and ask them specifically about storm and fireproofing techniques. Make sure it’s someone you can communicate with effectively and that you feel understands your priorities. Dr. Hausler adds, “The contractor should be licensed and insured in the venue where [they are] working. Then, check reviews if they are available. These can be online reviews or word-of-mouth reviews from your neighbors. Ask for examples of past projects and work. And of course, ask to see a full cost estimate with a bill of quantity before engaging the contractor.”

Small Steps Towards a Safer Home The cost of a few common upgrades can vary widely, depending on what you’re having done, if you’re doing it yourself, the materials you’re using, and the material and labor costs in your area. However, if you’re looking to retrofit your space to protect against natural threats common in your area, start small. You don’t have to do a major home overhaul to layer in some additional protection.

Dr. Hausler highlighted the following upgrades:

Basements and/or safe rooms are essential places of refuge during tornadoes.

To help protect your home during wind events such as hurricanes and tornadoes, roof tie downs and building envelopes are critical. Roof tie downs act like their name implies - they tie the roof to the walls and are often required per the building code in hurricane- prone areas. Maintaining the building envelope can help prevent wind from getting inside the home and blowing off the roof. The building envelope can be maintained by using storm shutters over windows, covering attic vents, and making sure your garage door is closed during a storm. She also said, “These measures can work for fire prevention also. However, the best solution for fire protection is to not build with flammable building materials. Much of the single-family housing stock in the United States is “stick-built”, or timber frame. While most building materials are required to have some level of fire resistance, the typical timber frame building with drywall and asphalt shingles on the roof will burn, as evidenced in events like the Marshall Fire in Boulder County, Colorado at the end of 2021.” For some additional guidance on the topic, Dr. Hausler referred homeowners to FEMA’s website (fema.gov), which includes guides for homeowners to protect their homes and families from natural disasters such as floods, tornados, wildfires, earthquakes, and more.

October 2024

FALL’S HEARTY HARVEST 3 MUST-TRY SOUPS and STEWS There’s nothing better than enjoying simple, rustic flavors that bring warmth to your table. These hearty soups and stews are perfect for the season, offering comfort and nourishment with every spoonful. Dive into these recipes and embrace the cozy tastes of autumn. Enjoy!

BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP

Ingredients:

Instructions:

z 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed z 1 onion, chopped z 2 cloves garlic, minced z 4 cups vegetable broth z 1 tsp ground nutmeg z Salt and pepper to taste z 1/2 cup crème fraîche (optional) z Toasted pumpkin seeds (for garnish)

1. Roast squash at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until tender. 2. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. 3. Add roasted squash and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. 4. Blend until smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. 5. Serve with crème fraîche and toasted pumpkin seeds.

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BEEF AND BARLEY STEW

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1 lb ground beef or turkey 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

1. Brown beef in a pot. 2. Add onions and garlic; cook until soft. 3. Stir in carrots, celery, barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 1 hour until beef is tender and barley is cooked.

z 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained z 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes z 1 onion, chopped z 2 cloves garlic, minced z 2 tbsp chili powder z 1 tsp cumin z Salt and pepper to taste z Shredded cheese and cilantro (for garnish)

ROASTED TOMATO AND BASIL SOUP

Ingredients:

2 lbs tomatoes, halved

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cups vegetable broth

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/2 cup cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast tomatoes at 400°F for 25 minutes. 2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. 3. Add roasted tomatoes and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. 4. Blend until smooth, stir in cream, basil, and season with salt and pepper.

October 2024

Everything You Need to Know about Solar Power

For homeowners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and lower their energy bills, solar power presents an enticing opportunity. Depending on where you live, the energy produced through solar energy could significantly lower or even eliminate your energy bill. But there’s an upfront cost to consider, along with whether you’d see substantial savings in your situation. You might also be wondering if building your own solar panels is an option, and the practical considerations for installation and financing you should be aware of. Getting started on the solar power journey can be daunting, so we hit up Alex Carpenter, founding partner at Green Ridge Solar in Sherwood, Oregon. With his strong knowledge in electrical engineering and design, along with his experience running a solar company since 2016, he was happy to provide some tips for homeowners.

Solar panels are available for a range of uses and come in a variety of sizes. There are small units you can take backpacking that hold enough power to charge your phone, for example. In and around the yard, you may already have solar lights. Similarly, you may have motion-sensored flood lights or a solar-charged gate opener at the end of the driveway. You might even have a unit that warms your hot tub or powers the RV. YOU PROBABLY ALREADY USE SOLAR

When the sun’s rays hit a solar panel, cells inside the panel, called photovoltaic cells (or PV cells) absorb the sunlight. The electrical charges in the cells convert the sunlight into energy, that is then directed to where it is needed, whether that’s directly to an appliance or to battery storage. Alex Carpenter outlined the list of parts in the system, saying, “Solar generally requires panels, or modules, high-efficiency DC to DC optimizers (changes line voltage to reduce conductor resistance loss), inverter(s) to convert DC current to AC, and switchgear for interconnecting to the grid (overcurrent protection, breakers, and electrical components). Modules are installed on either a roof or ground equipment. We can also install integrated batteries and generators, along with grid-interactive equipment to provide backup power during fluctuations in grid access (power outages).” The batteries will offer short or long-term storage, which is important if you are relying solely on solar energy to power your home or want to maximize the benefits of the system. You may choose to skip this step if you are merely supplementing your existing power supply or plan to let the excess power run directly onto the local power grid. HOW DOES SOLAR POWER WORK?

October 2024

SOLAR POWER INSTALLATION SO HOW MUCH DO SOLAR PANELS COST?

Before a system can be installed, the location needs to be assessed. You’ll need to have a very good understanding of the arc the sun takes as it crosses over your house, and not just during the summer, but year-round. You’ll then need to calculate the amount of energy you use and how much you plan to produce. This will establish the number of panels and the type of storage you’ll need. You may want to rely on the professionals for the installation part of the project since it could involve placing 20 or more panels on the roof or in an open space near the home. CAN I JUST BUILD MY OWN SYSTEM? We asked Alex if customers can build their own systems and he said, “They can and they do. But much like saying a homeowner can install their own high voltage electrical service, rewire a panel, or install a generator, do you trust yourself to perform the work in a safe, NEC-code-compliant, and electrically sound way? There is a reason why Electricians are required to attend 4 years of school and have 8000 hours of work experience. Generally, the cost breakdown on solar is ⅔ equipment, ⅓ labor, overhead, and profit. If you damage your equipment, or worse, cause damage to your home, is it worth saving ⅓ the cost over using a solar contractor?” He also mentioned that building a system yourself might affect your ability to take advantage of rebates from the utility company or the government. He explained, “Incentives can be upwards of 20-50% of the cost of your system. Many of those would not be available to a DIY customer.”

There’s a wide range of costs associated with solar panels, depending on many factors such as whether you install them yourselves, how many you need, what kind of unit you’re using, and the cost of labor in your area. However, if you’re talking about a professionally installed, whole- house system for an average-sized house, you’ll be looking at between $18,000 and $36,000. Alex offered a more generalized view saying, “Solar is much like a kitchen remodel: the cost all depends on the needs and sizing, angle to the sun, and other environmental factors. Generally solar can be paid for upfront by the consumer, or financed with 0% down on a long-term basis. The NPV (net present value) of cash flows in either scenario is still beneficial.” Similar to a mortgage, a loan on solar panels means money is going towards that loan for a period of time. Once the loan is paid off, however, you’ll have net savings for the life of the system.

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There are many factors to consider when calculating your return on investment with solar panels. A small solar panel could cost a few hundred dollars and significantly counterbalance the cost of heating a consumptive unit like a hot tub. On the other hand, it can take a while to recoup the costs of a full-home system. However, when you consider the rising costs of mainstream electrical power, it’s easy to see the benefits a solar-powered system can offer. Alex agrees, explaining, “Most people don't know that utility rates have increased 45% in three years here in Oregon, and those increases are expected to continue. Payback on solar is generally 5-10 years, and the investment on cash flow outperforms the stock market.” HOW MUCH MONEY WILL I SAVE?

HOW EFFICIENT IS SOLAR ENERGY?

A solar panel isn’t a funnel. In other words, everything that is collected isn’t funneled into energy. In reality, an average of 15-20% of the energy collected is converted into energy, but those efficiency numbers are climbing with each new technological advancement. Plus, remember every watt is collected using a clean method that doesn’t pollute the environment or show up on your electric bill.

DO SOLAR PANELS NEED FULL SUN?

Yes and no. While they will still operate in partly sunny conditions, you’ll want your solar panels to have optimal sun exposure. In addition to tilting or turning your solar panels towards sunlight, you’ll want to avoid shading your solar panels. That’s why it’s essential to evaluate the surrounding area before installing them. Watch for tall trees, surrounding buildings, rooftop dishes or AC units, chimneys, etc. that can unintentionally throw shade on your units. We asked Alex how much sunlight a house needs in order to maximize the use of solar and he said, “Not much. Technology has really taken this into consideration. Low light, clouds, and rain can still produce energy. We take solar production into account on an annual basis when evaluating the overall production to take advantage of net metering. Places located in extremely north or south locations can be problematic for payback, but can still produce.”

TYPES OF SOLAR PANELS

There are two primary types of solar panels and the difference comes from the quality of the crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells. The first is called monocrystalline. They are typically more expensive, yet also more efficient. The second is called polycrystalline. These solar panels are less expensive and, you guessed it, less efficient. Each type has its pros and cons, so it’s important to talk with an industry professional to understand the characteristics of each new generation of panels. Consider the difference in price, and also output potential, before making your choice. Alex highlighted this point saying, “Quality outweighs price. Much like a Toyota and a geo metro can get you to the same destination, but how many times? Electrical design, maximizing efficiency through voltage drop and equipment round trip effectively make a long term impact on solar’s payback.”

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Once installation is complete, the system will require some upkeep. For example, dirt and debris will reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. If you have a steeply angled roof and a decent amount of rain, you may have nature doing the cleaning for you. In contrast, if you have a mostly flat roof with a large-leaf maple tree nearby, your assistance will regularly be required. Similarly, if your panels are on the ground, flying grass from mowing a field, wind, mud, moss, or leaves will significantly reduce the efficiency of your unit. During winter, if you have snowfall followed by cold sunny days, you may need to remove the snow from your panels if it is not melting on its own. Alex suggested reviewing the contract with any potential solar installation company as it pertains to warranty, maintenance, and repairs saying, “It is extremely important to emphasize that solar is a long-term investment, and requires long- term maintenance. Many companies do not have servicing departments, leaving homeowners with dysfunctional systems and limited (if any) options for repairs. Our company has a service center that not only covers our customers but often service systems installed by other companies and help homeowners who are in a bind.” Probably, if it’s on your home improvement checklist. Modern, durable solar panels can last decades with proper care. That’s a lot of energy savings for you. However, your efficiency and cost savings can tank if you need to remove the solar panels for any reason during their working lifespan. With this in mind, always investigate the usable life of your roof before installing solar panels. DO I NEED TO REPLACE MY ROOF FIRST? SOLAR PANEL MAINTENANCE AND UPKEEP

Unless your goal is to be completely off grid, you’ll probably have a hybrid system. This setup allows you to supply for your own consumption, and then funnel any excess energy onto the grid. On the consuming side of the equation, it allows you to rely on solar when it’s available, and regular electrical power when it’s not. You’ll need to work with your local energy provider. You may be able to connect the power to your meter or they may need to take over that portion. Some electrical companies provide a single meter to monitor the electricity you produce and send to the grid, along with the electricity you pull off the grid when you run short from your own solar energy production. Other power companies have two separate meters, each to measure the separate flows of energy in and out of your home. Either way, you’ll need to connect the power to the meters in order to reap those benefits. Again, Alex suggests reviewing the coverage on your contract. “Your solar contractor should handle all the interconnection approval and local jurisdiction permitting. We perform all these services in-house, including site audits, permitting, engineering, electrical diagramming, procurement of materials, installation, and servicing of your equipment,” Alex says. HOW DO I HOOK UP TO THE POWER GRID?

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What is Your Home Truly Worth? To Request a Copy of My Free Home Value Report to Determine What Your Home is Truly Worth, Call 770-843-8184 or Email keishatompkins@kw.com . This is all 100% free with no obligation. After you submit the online questionnaire, you will receive my free report with information that will help you determine your home's value. I recommend printing it out and taking a drive to see the homes I've identified as comparable to yours. See how your home measures up. This will help you get an even more accurate idea of what your home is worth. An appraiser would charge hundreds for this service, but I will provide one at no cost. If you would like my free, professional opinion on the value of your home, I'd be glad to help. We can talk on the phone, or we can meet in person. I look forward to helping you! Keisha Tompkins Keller Williams Realty Atlanta Partners 770-843-8184 keishatompkins@kw.com www.keishatsells.com

Keisha Tompkins Keller Williams Realty Atlanta Partners

770-843-8184 keishatompkins@kw.com www.keishatsells.com

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