#tips for selling your home 2022

[ferg0s]

Still looking for short requests. Any Blue Lock boy you want, they find their bored, time killing s/o playing with a soccer ball, but she's using it like a basketball or volley ball

Imagine Isagi paying a couple months of rent worth of money for an other wise ordinary looking ball. But if you were knowledgeable in the soccer - sphere, you could easily recognize it as the Adidas Al Rihla, the official soccer ball for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. It had cost him an arm and a leg to get that, not to mention the various hurdles he has to cross to find some one willing to sell him an authentic one that wasn’t in the 6 digits.

In your shared apartment, he had this own bookshelf filled with various trophies and other Soccer memorabilia. With one little book dusted and saved for his newest addition. He was like a child on Christmas, waiting for it to be delivered, ready to proudly show it off to his teammates and friends - be the coolest guy in the group.

But the timing of it couldn’t have been more worse. He had been running late to practice that day, having forgotten to set his alarm earlier to account for day light saving , and almost ran into the delivery man when he on his way out. He grabbed the package, and rushed inside to place it in the table next to the entry way. But his eagerness got the better of him, and he opened the package to at least examine the ball. Perfect. It was perfect. He didn’t have much time to bask in the glory of his new possession, placing it next to the box it came in and running off as to avoid doing the 15 lap penalty for being late.

The entire time at practice that’s all hr could think about. Wondering where he would place it. How he would casually bring it up in conversation. He practically ran off the field when practice was over, speed running the shower and putting on his boxers backwards - not caring how uncomfortable it felt during the drive back. He took the stairs, the elevator took too much time and he was faster on foot, the key to the apartment already in his hand. He didn’t want you waste any time. Opening the door the first thing he did was look to the little table he had left the ball on and… it was gone….

The box was still there, but the ball… no where in sight. He figured it must’ve rolled off, which prompted him get on all fours and look for it in every nook and cranny within eye sight. That’s when he noticed your shoes - you were home. “Babe!” He called out, still on all fours. “Oh you’re home-“ he heard your voice call out. “A delivery came for you. It’s on the table by the door-“ you added. “About that-“ he sighed. Maybe you had assumed it was one of his practice balls and put it with the others, or maybe his closet.

He got up, dusting him self off before going towards the living room. “Have you seen-“

It seemed like you had. He watched in horror, his eyes widening and his body seeming to stiffen up. You, on the couch, tossing the ball in the air and bouncing it off your finger tips. Casually playing with a literal modern antique - in his eyes. He could have shed a tear right there. You turn to him, catching the ball and putting it in your lap. “How was practice?” You ask, blissfully unaware of the crime you had committed. A worried expression beginning to form when you noticed how distressed he look. “Are you okay?” You asked, placing the ball to the side of the couch as you got up.

He was not okay. You watched him inspect the ball under the light of the lamp, trying to find any dents and scuffs. You told him that you had come home 10 minutes before he did, and you doubted that it would have damaged the ball by the 3 minutes you were playing around with it. But you soon figured he wasn’t one to listen to reason at the moment.

[teecupangel]

What if after Desmond runs away from the farm instead of ending up in the city he finds himself where his ancestors are at the same age

Also side idea that I had while typing runaway Desmond ends up after the ancestors have the children who lead to Desmond so that we can have them being paternal about the kid who keeps slipping away somehow and Desmond being like "wow the people dad sent after me are rant persistent" before finding out they don't know Will at all

So I had a post about Desmond being pushed into either the Third Crusades or to Renaissance Italy when he ran away but I can’t find it TTATT It’s somewhere here in Tumblr, don’t know where though. Hopefully, I can get to it during my Tumblr posts to AO3 ‘copying’ (still in Dec 2022 XD).

Anyway, in a nutshell, that idea had Altaïr and Desmond being very close to one another because they’re both isolated and had nobody else and it would be so easy for them to tip the scale to fall onto “us versus everybody” mentality for the two of them (especially since that idea had Desmond not become an Assassin so Al Mualim is using him to keep Altaïr in check).

The Renaissance Italy idea is more light-hearted, if I remember correctly? More on the side of Desmond having a happy family life thanks to the Auditore family.

I didn’t include it but Ratonhnhaké:ton’s version of this idea was pretty much reused for the Yew Branch A New Way To Do Things.

The main idea is that, since this is a Desmond that has not been in the Animus, he has no idea who these people are and the events that will happen (hell, he won’t even be able to know their language immediately) so he’s just trying to survive and live the best he could. This means he cannot stop the tragedy that will happen (or, in Altaïr’s and Ratonhnhaké:ton’s case, he would be too late to stop it). The Renaissance Italy version could have a happier ending since Desmond would be there for the arrest though. Probably. At the very least, Giovanni would order him to take Petruccio and run, so… at least Petruccio would survive. Probably.

Now, as for the second idea.

Since this is a Desmond that never went to the Animus, he wouldn’t know how important these children are so we will have…

Sef and Darim

It would be Sef who finds him and he’s just a traveling merchant who went to Masyaf to sell his stuff. Sef would always visit him and ask him about this and that.

Darim finds him while looking for Sef and Desmond just gives him another one of the sweet breads he buys for him (and Sef).

This goes on for days until Malik finally visits his stall and talks (interrogates) him. That’s when he finally learns that the two kids he’d been talking to are the kids of the head honcho of this place. And he’s currently out and the kids are a handful (Malik may or may not imply that their parents’ frequent journeys are to blame) so he offers Desmond a job as their ‘caretaker’. Meals and lodging are included, the pay is great and Desmond is getting tired with all the traveling. Plus, Malik promises he doesn’t have anything to do with the Brotherhood.

At that point, Desmond is already fond of the kids so he agrees.

When Altaïr and Maria returned to Masyaf, they’re greeted with Malik going “I found your sons a caretaker and they might like him more than they like you. You have no one to blame but yourselves.”

Flavia and Marcello

But for this one, Desmond could be working in Firenze for a merchant that Sofia likes to go to. Flavia and Marcello would go with their mother and they’d get close to Desmond.

One time, Marcello gets lost and Desmond finds him. He brings him home and that’s how Ezio meets him…

And now for the kicker. This would be the angstiest of the three ideas to be completely honest considering how old Ezio died and the fact that Desmond doesn’t even know about his connection with Ezio during this time, which will only serve to hurt Ezio.

Io:nhiòte and her older siblings

For this one, we’ll have Desmond become part of the homestead. He got there by ‘accident’, he was just walking around and found their homestead. Luckily, Oliver and Corrine needed help in the inn so he helps out, in exchange for lodging and food.

Io:nhiòte is the one who finds him first and Desmond just plays with her and shares his food. Her two older siblings find them together and Desmond becomes close to them.

Ratonhnhaké:ton would visit the tavern one time and thank Desmond for playing with his children. Perhaps he’d try to recruit Desmond into becoming an Assassin but Desmond would say no to it which Ratonhnhaké:ton would understand.

In this one, Ratonhnhaké:ton sees Desmond primarily as his children’s favorite friend.

[alexin-wonderlust]

Day 2 - Japan Blog - 8 February 2024

Disneyland

I promise this blog wont be as lengthy but I really wanted to share my tips about hot to get in to Japan; today we are off to Disneyland. Let's get it off the bat, first thing, straight to the good stuff. Starting the day with a Squeeze Squeeze (my favourite Orange Juice, it is the most pulpiest juice ever, it's like biting into an orange) we started the commute to Disneyland. 

Now; I wanted to get there early -- I didnt think ropedrop was necessary but apparently it was. I missed out on the Space Mountain priority pass AND the Enchanted Tales with Belle priority pass (the one you have to pay for...) I was actually blown away. The amount of planning I did; and that still wasnt enough to anticipate the crowd that was the day we attended. I managed to sweet talk one of the lovely Cast Members at Space Mountain and she gave me a Switch Rider Pass, arigato -- so I could come back and use that at a later time (just like a fast pass). Ben didnt want one because he isnt a "ride guy". Fair enough, but SPACE MOUNTAIN IS AMAZING -- if you are a ride guy and want to try something awesome, please give it a go. You wont regret. 

After being sad and chucking a tantrum about not being able to go on the ONE RIDE I SO BADLY WANTED TO RIDE... I was satiated with a cute pink Mickey beanie and Ben got the matching glasses (because Valentines Day is next week!!) and then we went on to Toontown to see the bits of the park we missed last time. 

This is my sixth visit to Tokyo Disneyland and while there have been some changes -- It's so nice to see it back to "normal" since COVID. When we visited in November 22, there was so much magic missing and there still is; ahem -- single riders line, paper maps... just to name a few. But there are also some good changes and the merch is back to being fun and cute. I really enjoyed shopping at Disneyland a lot more this time than I did in 2022. 

(Bring back single riders lines and paper maps because I need it!)

Ben got to go on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride which I have been raving about for years (it was closed for refurb last time) and we even got to have a beer before hand -- Since when can you drink beer in Disneyland!? This is new and I like it! Also, seeing snow (albeit dirty piles, I dont care!!) in the park is SO GOOD -- I had fun doing a squish!

For dinner, we settled on the Queen of Hearts Banquet which -- of course, was mediocre at best. But, I mean. Its a counter meal, it is easy, fun and the theming is cute. Although my phone battery was starting to deplete and the charge bank I brought with me turned out to be a pile of trash. 

Here's a TIP! If you are going to be spending the day out and about -- PLEASE CONSIDER BRINGING A FULLY CHARGED BATTERY BANK.

If you cant, there are some options; but Disneyland struggled to meet our needs and here's why.

-The charge spots are in Japanese. No issue, except I need my phone to translate and that drains battery.

-You need an APP to hire a battery bank. This is also in japanese and you cant translate it.

-You have to scan the QR code 3 or 4 times which means people are hanging around in the area, which is ANNOYING because therye in the way and you're stressing out because of the next point...

-It doesnt accept any other payment method except CREDIT CARD. Not debit card, not paypal linked to a credit card, not apple pay. It has to be "enter your CREDIT card details" to make a payment.

This was very frustrating because by the time I had located the charge spot; tried about 3 times; downloaded the app, created an account, tried to link my debit card, paypal, etc... my battery is now on 2%. EEP! 

HOW TO FIX; I went to the HOME STORE next to the American Waffle Co near the Main Street and they sell battery packs for approximately 2900YEN. Which was about $30AUD. This thing was amazing. It had enough charge to fill both ben and my phone to at least 60% and get us through until back to the hotel. Thank you Disney! :)

I wanted to keep this short so I will just say the next things in dot point form:

-Minnies Funderland promo is super cute but the girls hogged the picture spots and there were massive line ups for the special foods all day.

-Got some super cute pictures at Golden Hour at the castle. 

-Ben got his sherrif pin for winning the Shooting Gallery and getting 10 shots in a row!

-Rides we went on were Space Mountain, Star Tours, Pirates of the Caribbean

-The electrical parade is amazing but its TOO COLD -- the fireworks were bloody pitiful. Sorry, but they suck.

Then we start the long trek through the crowd back to the hotel (this is why I prefer to stay onsite when I go to Disneyland... its just easier for a hotel thats not much more expensive...!)

On the way back we found a supermarket and I stocked up on some "healthier" options; like a banana and I organised myself a bath and a face mask for my first relaxation, pamper session. One of my favourite things to do in Japan. While I was in the bath; Ben went to the 7/11 and they had an onigiri which has now plagued my brain -- pork and wasabi. I need more and I need them all.

[algeroth]

Take the housing market. Home sale prices have come off of their 2022 peak, but they're still 47% higher than they were in 2019, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller National Home Price Index. Even if you manage to find a deal, getting a loan is going to be costly. Thanks to the Federal Reserve's interest-rate hikes, mortgage rates are much higher than they were just a couple of years ago: somewhere around 7%, compared with just about 2.5% in 2021. Not only do these high rates weigh on prospective buyers, but anyone thinking of selling their home — hello, boomers — is likely to be turned off because their current mortgage rate is probably lower than a new one. With both buyers and sellers feeling the squeeze from higher mortgage rates, and with homebuilders unable to keep up, the inventory of available homes has collapsed. And as much as a lot of people would like to see a housing-market bubble burst, that's probably not in the cards.

The car market is in a similar situation. Vehicles are expensive. Loans are getting tougher to come by, and even if you manage to get credit, elevated interest rates are making financing costly. Car insurance is much more than it used to be, too. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' most recent consumer price index indicates the cost of car insurance is up by more than 20% over the past year.

When it comes to work, the vibe is static, too. Yes, the labor market is strong, but it's not a great time to go looking for a new job. Companies aren't laying people off en masse, but they're also not bringing employees on board quickly. Hiring has slowed significantly from where it was in 2021 and 2022. And, it's much lower than one would expect with the current unemployment rate.

"Employers are hiring as if there's a relatively weak labor market, not a strong one," said Matt Darling, a senior employment-policy analyst at the Niskanen Center, a center-right think tank.

The downshift in hiring has also tipped the balance of power back toward employers. While wages are still on the upswing, switching jobs may not come with as much of a pay bump as it did during the Great Resignation of 2021 and 2022. That may be fine for those who are happy in their jobs, which many people are, but it's not so great for those who are feeling a little antsy or underappreciated. And for those Americans who find themselves out of work and looking for a new gig, it's going to take a minute. Darling told me that for the unemployed, it takes about twice as long to get a job as it did before 2008. A job search that used to take 10 weeks at a similar unemployment rate now takes 20.

"That's obviously a huge source of dissatisfaction, because 20 weeks is a long time," Darling said. "What's that, five months to be looking for a job?"

What this all translates to is a scenario where some Americans feel trapped. They can put food on the table and fill up their gas tanks, albeit at a price they'd rather not be paying. But it's hard and expensive to move up the ladder in many meaningful ways. In a consumerist society that encourages people to want more and a culture that prizes itself on economic mobility, this level of stillness is uncomfortable. While it's still possible to get a better job or a new house, those things feel like they're off in some nebulous future, out of your control.

[newenglandsolar]

sell commercial solar

If you have any desire to figure out how to sell sunlight-powered chargers quickly, you should comprehend what’s driving the unbelievable interest the business is encountering. These are the four fundamental variables

Rising energy costs Have you taken a gander at your energy bill of late? Tragically, you’re probably paying essentially more than you were quite a while back. Be that as it may, sadly, so are individuals you sell sun based to every day.

Quite possibly the best thing about sunlight-based chargers is that they permit property holders to bring down their energy costs since they never again depend on service organizations to give them power. Thus, most property holders save $1,500 a year in the wake of putting resources into sunlight-based chargers.

Falling sunlight-based charger costs

Everyone needs to get a good deal on their power bill — however not if the expense of doing so is restrictive. Quite a while back, this could have been the situation. Notwithstanding, nowadays, the cost of introducing sunlight-powered chargers has dove by over 75%, making it significantly more reasonable.

As a little something extra, sun powered has been demonstrated to increment home estimations. For instance, one investigation discovered that homes with sun power sell for 4.1% more, coming about in a $9,274 normal knock-in deal cost.

Regulation and motivating forces Set forth plainly, the American government is holding nothing back on the sun-based industry.

The Expansion Decrease Demonstration of 2022 is a help to everybody selling sun power. It permits mortgage holders to deduct 30% of their recently introduced planetary groups from their government charges. This could bring about immense investment funds.

Cross-country sunlight reception Last but not least, sun oriented has gone standard.

Sun-powered is presently not a specialty energy hotspot for the world-class not many. All things being equal, it’s presently available to most mortgage holders and developing rapidly on account of the expense-saving potential.

Match this with the way that sunlight-based is an environmentally friendly power energy source and by and large, viewed as better for the planet, and you have a popular item that the vast majority are eager to claim.

Instructions to SELL MORE Sun-powered chargers Anybody can figure out how to sell sunlight-based chargers — simply follow the tips underneath. When your group carries out these prescribed procedures, they’ll begin selling sun power much speedier than previously.

Comprehend sunlight-based tax reductions and motivations Sun-powered chargers are less expensive than they used to be. However, they aren’t modest......sell commercial solar

[creativemorningsvancouver]

We are quite excited to host chef, restauranteur, 
author, and activist, Meeru Dhalwala, who will share her compelling story of creativity through the lens of June’s global theme ‘reverie’.

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Meeru moved from Washington, D.C. to Vancouver in February 1995 and has since been cooking and running the kitchens and menus at Vij’s and Rangoli restaurants. Vij’s has been hailed by the New York Times as “easily among the finest Indian restaurants in the world.” (Rangoli closed after 17 years in May 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Meeru also wrote all three award-winning Vij’s cookbooks.

In 2021, Meeru created a small community business built from her learned ethics in the food industry: My Bambiri (baby) Foods. My Bambiri sources from BC organic farmers and sells on income-based pricing: three price options based on a family’s specific finances. She has also partnered with Food Stash Foundation to sell My Bambiri at their markets for low-income families who face many economic and social barriers. In October 2022, Meeru relaunched her annual international food fair called “Joy of Feeding” that is held at the UBC Farm Centre for Sustainable Food Systems.

Meeru holds a MSc in development studies from Bath University, UK, and brings her passion for humanity into her business and cooking practices. She is one of Vancouver’s most prominent promoters of women in business, climate change and sustainability, and healthy-elegant cooking. She proudly sits on the Board of Directors for the Green Party of Vancouver. For her professional and community work, Meeru has received honorary doctorates from both University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University.

Every month we like to ask our speakers a handful of probing questions to give us a deeper glimpse into their life and relationship with creativity:

How do you define creativity and apply it in your life and career? I imagine and then come up with ideas. Lots of ideas, of which most aren’t realistic, but contribute to the final ideas that I/we can execute. I love the process of ideas popping or slowly coming to form in my head. I love the crazy ideas that are impractical and the ideas that could make stories if I were a novelist. I say the word “IDEA!” in the Vij’s kitchen and staff stops whatever we’re doing, get excited and hear the “IDEA!” Half of them result in all of us just laughing b/c while even saying it, I realize it’s not practical or just sounds silly coming out. My kitchen staff doesn’t rely on me to run the daily kitchen—cooking, ordering, loading, prep, etc.—but they rely on me for my “IDEA!” And if I love my idea, I don’t let it go.

Where do you find your best creative inspiration or energy? From running in my neighborhood—not any neighborhood or trail. Running is combination of my familiar surroundings and my body igniting me—my brain is dancing while my body is doing all the physical work. Whatever is on my mind—whether my family, trying to save some aspect of the environment, imagining being dead, imagining my comfort place on this earth, a work issue, coming up with recipes, etc.—it’s done with abandon while I’m running. Within 10 minutes, I lose myself in imagining, pondering…and daydreaming about my past in relation to today.

What’s one piece of creative advice or a tip you wish you’d known as a young person? Find a solo activity during which you feel abandon and…yes, lose yourself in reverie! I run. All those times when I was crying or stressed about my home life or school life, if I had gone out running and released that stress energy, the weight would have lightened and so many windows would have opened. Doesn’t have to be a physical activity—it can be knitting or drawing.

Who (living or dead) would you most enjoy hearing speak at CreativeMornings? George Eliot or Graca Machel. Intellectually attuned and gracefully passionate, brave women. Middlemarch is still relevant as a compelling storyline and observation on humanity’s social concoctions. Women and children’s rights activist Graca Machel was the First Lady of Mozambique at an important and crucial time. Her husband (the President) was assassinated via a plane crash. Later, she became the First Lady of South Africa, as wife of Nelson Mandela.

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done? Fly to Vancouver from Washington D.C. to meet a guy I was talking on the phone with for a month (back in 1994) and, after spending 5 days with him, deciding to marry him asap. I left my hometown, friends and career in human rights and economic development to move to Vancouver. It resulted in a new and completed unexpected career, two beautiful children and 17 years of marriage. I don’t know how, but I grabbed the confidence in love before it escaped in the form of common sense.

If you could open a door and go anywhere, where would that be? My partner is a dry suit (meaning he dives in cold waters) scuba diver and travels to all waters of the world to dive, take photos. His “comfort place” in this world is the silence and being solo under water—complete opposite from mine. He lies there with his camera, watches and waits for creatures to swim, fully in zen mode. This level of silence and alone-ness intimidates and fascinates me. I would LOVE to turn myself into an invisible and weightless being, and be on his shoulder while he does this. I would not want to disturb his zen. For me, this would be like magically living in a dream.

What are you proudest of in your life? Giving motherhood my all, by which I don’t mean just love. The most important moment of my life so far is when I first looked down at my newborn and felt/saw the look in her wide eyes, settling on her mom’s face. I call this “Newborn Eyes”. Newborn Eyes are the energy of my personal life. I’m proud of fully and honestly engaging with my two daughters as humans and not as my extensions. I’m proud of calling them out on their shit and not worrying if they like me or not, or if they’ll rebel. I’m proud that I never stopped being me for the sake of being a mother.

If you could do anything now, what would you do? Have each human above the age of, say 6, in this world watch the animated documentary film “Flee” for its subject matter and b/c its engrossing storytelling. I want all of us watching at the exact same time so we are aware of sharing this experience together, as one. So, a bit of magic or super sci-fi high tech required here. Some of the bravest and most loving people in this world are “refugees” and “migrants”. These are labels for some, but for me they are my mom and dad.

What books made a difference in your life and why? The Employees by Olga Ravn. This book is potentially our real future with real humans co-existing with AI types of humans. It’s beautifully written. It’s a very short book and I read it twice in a row.

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[molsons112000]

So we have to watch out in major leagues before impairing the vision of the fielders. Remember, the cubs center field had no seating in the lower half and had a color green because they didn't want it to interfere with the batter's ability to pick up the baseball from the pitcher. I've been watching the pitcher with all the advertising behind the plate and i've been losing the baseball in the advertising so I would assume the fielders our having a more difficult time recognizing the baseball off the bat and the ball is coming faster than ever off the bat and it's just increasing... oh I worry about this with hockey and other sports too. They put all this advertising on the panels, and it interferes with their ability to play the game. As god said, be very careful on what you asked for because what you think is a blessing could be a burden...

How fast does a baseball come off a Major League bat?

If you're looking to learn more about bat speed, check out our post outlining our Bat Speed Training program. Nelson Cruz & Giancarlo Stanton lead MLB with an average of 94mph per hit ball. And the average MLB exit speed is around 89mph.

https://thehittingvault.com › exit-sp...

Understanding Exit Speed - The Hitting Vault

At Wrigley Field, the lower center field seats are typically kept empty to ensure a clear line of sight for batters by preventing a large mass of people from obstructing their view of the baseball, particularly when trying to track a pitch against the bright outfield wall; this is achieved by not selling those seats to fans, effectively creating a "batter's eye" area in the center field. 

 



Key points about this practice: 

 



Clear vision is crucial:

A batter needs a clear view of the ball as it travels towards the plate, and a large crowd in the lower center field could hinder this ability.

"Batter's eye" concept:

Most stadiums have a designated area in the center field, usually with a specific design or color, to help hitters track the ball; at Wrigley, the empty lower center field seats serve this function.

Not just Wrigley:

While Wrigley Field is well-known for this practice, many other stadiums also have a section of lower center field seats that are not sold to fans for the same reason. 

Reviews mention:

“…Cub won! Went into extra innings and came out on top despite the rain. Seats were in the bleachers, which was fun! The crowd was just as fun as the game itself.”

Aug 21, 2022

Oh, they have to work on recognition of picking up the white area of the baseball and the red seams, and also working out recognition of picking up round objects, moving through the atmosphere....

The OT Toolbox

https://www.theottoolbox.com › ...

Visual Tracking Tips and Tools for Treatment

Skills Related to Visual Tracking · Have your child close one eye and place a colored crafting pom pom onto a matching bottle cap. · After the child

People also ask

Can you improve visual tracking?

Visual tracking can be singularly developed by observing a ball go around the screen. Because the brain is asked to accomplish only one thing at a time, this approach focuses directly on the problem. These vision functions can eventually become automatic, allowing them to be performed subconsciously.

https://prasadnetralaya.com › ...

9 Tips on How to Improve Visual Tracking at Home

https://www.google.com/search?ie=UTF-8&client=ms-android-comcast-us-rvc3&source=android-browser&q=Ways+to+improve+vision+to+track+small%2C+white+objects

So sports have to be very careful, including Olympic sports to make sure that the advertising is not interfering with the athletes to build them to do their job. If it does, then it will put them in jeopardy!!!!

Hello, I'm watching the major league baseball game in the playoffs between Detroit and Houston. In the American League.... but I always think of Houston as a National League team. So I'm still trying to adjust to this American league Houston...

[chariotenergy]

Factors that influence savings

Thinking about harnessing the sun's power to slash your electricity bill and go green? Smart move! But how much you save depends on a few key factors. Let's dive into the data and see what sunshine translates to in terms of savings:

Sun Exposure: A study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that a typical 6 kW solar system in sunny Phoenix, Arizona could generate over 12,000 kWh per year, while the same system in Seattle, Washington might only generate 6,500 kWh due to fewer sunlight hours. ([Source 1] NREL)

System Size: A 6 kW system generally offsets more electricity use compared to a smaller 3 kW system, potentially saving you more money. However, the 6 kW system will also have a higher upfront cost.

Energy Usage: According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average residential customer uses 893 kWh of electricity per month in 2023. ([Source 2] EIA) A high-energy user consuming 1500 kWh per month could see significantly greater savings from solar power compared to a low-energy user consuming 500 kWh per month.

Net Metering: A 2022 report by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) found that 44 states and the District of Columbia have net metering policies in place. These policies allow you to sell excess solar energy back to the grid, potentially reducing your electricity bill by hundreds of dollars per year depending on the buyback rate offered by your utility company. ([Source 3] SEIA)

Government Incentives: The federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) currently stands at 26% in 2023, significantly reducing the upfront cost of solar panels. This can translate to thousands of dollars in savings. Additionally, many states and local governments offer additional rebates and incentives. ([Source 4] SEIA)

Efficiency: Solar Energy Industries Association reports that high-efficiency solar panels can convert 22-23% of sunlight into electricity, while less efficient panels might only convert 15-17%. This difference in efficiency can impact your overall energy production and potential savings. ([Source 5] SEIA)

The more sunshine you get, the bigger the system you can use, and the more energy you use, the more you might save with solar panels. Check with your state for deals and see how much power you use at home to figure out if solar power can shine a light on your wallet.

For more energy-saving tips, visit us at https://chariotenergy.com/

[alysongills]

Audiobooks' Impact on Self-Publishing: A New Era

The global ebook market is expected to hit $32.19 billion by 2032. By 2023, ebooks make up 56% of all e-publishing income. But, audiobooks are really taking off. Audiobook downloads have grown by 2.7% since 2020 in the US. Worldwide, they're the fastest-growing book format. Despite more digital content, less than 20% of book sales are in physical stores. Young people still prefer physical books over digital ones. Almost 10% of reading worldwide happens on digital devices. This number is getting bigger every year. Quick Recommendation: Click here to Boost Your Self-Publishing Success with Book Bolt! This is an awesome tool for creating and selling low content books. The puzzle generation component alone is worth the price of a pro subscription. Key Takeaways - The global ebook market is estimated to be valued at $32.19 billion by 2032, with ebooks representing 56% of all e-publishing income. - Audiobook downloads have grown in popularity by 2.7% since 2020 in the US consumer trade book sales, and globally, audiobooks are the fastest-growing book publishing format. - Sales of books in physical stores still represent less than 20% of total sales, despite the proliferation of digital content. - 9 out of 10 young people still prefer to read physical books compared to digital versions. - Almost 10% of reading around the world is performed on digital devices, a number that is constantly growing.

The Rapid Growth of Audiobooks

The audiobook market is growing fast, now in its second decade of growth. The Audio Publishers Association (APA) reports a 10% increase in revenue last year. This shows how popular audiobooks are becoming in the U.S. The APA's 2023 survey shows more people are listening to audiobooks than ever. Now, 53% of people aged 18 and up have listened to an audiobook in the past year. This is up from 45% the year before. It shows how audiobooks are winning over more listeners. Audiobook Sales and Revenue Surge Audiobook sales and revenue are going up fast. By 2030, they're expected to hit $35.05 billion, growing by 26.4% each year from 2022. This shows how the industry is growing and changing to meet reader needs. With more people listening and sales going up, the audiobook market is booming. Publishers, authors, and producers are working together to make audiobooks better. This could lead to even more growth for the industry. Smart speakers and personalized listening have helped audiobooks grow. As technology gets better, audiobooks could reach even more people. The future looks bright for audiobooks, offering new ways to enjoy stories and information.

Technology Transforming the Audiobook Industry

The audiobook industry is changing fast, thanks to new tech and trends. These changes have made audiobooks more popular than ever. Publishers and creators are now using new tech to reach more people. More people want to listen to audiobooks now. Thanks to tech, you can listen to them on phones, tablets, and smart speakers. This has made audiobooks easy to get and listen to anywhere, anytime. Now, more people can enjoy audiobooks, no matter their age or background. This has opened up the market to a wider audience. Publishers are also changing with the times. They're trying out new ways to make audiobooks, like using many narrators. They're even making new stories just for audio and making old books available in audio too. Audiobooks are great for many people, like teachers and kids who find reading hard. They help make reading fun and easy for everyone. This has made audiobooks more popular in schools and homes. Experts think the future of audiobooks will be even more exciting. They see more personalized stories and ways to make listening more fun. This will make audiobooks even more engaging for listeners. Online platforms and social media have also changed the game. They let audiobook fans connect, share tips, and join virtual book clubs. This has made audiobooks even more popular and connected. In short, the audiobook world is changing fast, thanks to new tech and trends. These changes have made audiobooks more accessible and popular. They've also led to new ways to enjoy stories and a stronger audiobook community.

Audiobooks Empower Independent Authors

Self-publishing has become a big deal in the publishing world. It gives independent authors a way to share their stories with readers. In the last five years, the number of self-published books has jumped by 264%. This growth is thanks to platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), which make it easier for authors to publish their work. Self-Publishing Platforms Offer Audiobook Creation Self-publishing has opened doors for authors to make self-publishing audiobook opportunities. Platforms like Findaway Voices and Spines help authors turn their stories into audiobooks. These platforms make it easier for authors to share their work. Findaway Voices offers a way for authors to make money, with narrator fees between $150 and over $400 per hour. Spines can turn a manuscript into an audiobook in less than 30 days. They use AI to match the book's tone and characters, making it a cost-effective choice for independent authors audiobooks. These platforms have made making audiobooks easier and helped authors reach more people. As audiobook sales grow, self-publishing authors can benefit from this trend. They can connect with listeners on a deeper level. The first Amazon Kindle in 2007 changed the game for self-publishing. Now, platforms like Smashwords, Lulu, and Wattpad let authors sell their work and keep more of the profit. Social media has also helped authors promote their books and build a fan base. The COVID-19 pandemic made more authors turn to self-publishing. It let them share their unique stories and genres. Self-publishing gives authors full control over their books, from editing to marketing. The future looks bright for independent authors audiobooks and self-publishing audiobook opportunities. By using self-publishing and the growing demand for audiobooks, authors can reach more readers and succeed in the changing book world.

How the Rise of Audiobooks is Influencing Self-Publishing

Audiobooks are changing the game in self-publishing. More readers love the ease and reach of audiobooks. This shift is helping indie authors find new fans and grow their creative reach. Audiobooks are opening new doors for authors by adding to their income. With earnings hitting $2 billion in 2023, self-published authors can now explore this booming market. Plus, more people are tuning in, with 38% having listened to an audiobook, up from 35% before. In genres like Romance and fantasy, audiobooks are huge. Romance saw an 11% jump, making it a top genre for audiobook fans. This is a big chance for self-published authors to make audiobook versions of their books. The growth of audiobooks matches the rise of platforms that help authors make their books into audiobooks. These platforms let indie authors easily create top-notch audiobooks. This helps them reach more people. With more titles being listened to, self-published authors can stand out in the market. MetricValueAudiobook revenue in 2023$2 billionIncrease in audiobook revenue from previous year9%Percentage of individuals who have listened to at least one audiobook38%Increase in the percentage of individuals who have listened to at least one audiobook3 percentage pointsIncrease in the number of audiobook titles read by readers0.8 percentage pointsIncrease in the popularity of the romance genre in audiobooks11% The growth of audiobooks is changing self-publishing for the better. Indie authors who jump on this trend can earn more and reach more readers. This helps them succeed in the ever-changing publishing world. Quick Recommendation: Click here to Boost Your Self-Publishing Success with Book Bolt! This is an awesome tool for creating and selling low content books. The puzzle generation component alone is worth the price of a pro subscription.

The Changing Landscape of Book Publishing

The book publishing world is changing fast, thanks to new publishing technology and what readers want. Now, both physical and e-books share the stage, each with its own benefits and challenges. E-books are becoming more popular. In the US, they made $2.7 billion in 2020, up from $2.2 billion the year before. This means e-books now make up 23% of all book sales, up from 18% the year before. This trend is happening not just in the US but also in places like the UK, Germany, and Japan. The digital revolution has changed how books are made and sold. Self-publishing sites like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and Smashwords let authors skip traditional publishers. This has made publishing more open, giving authors more control and higher earnings. Because of this, self-publishing is a big deal now. Indie authors make up 30-34% of e-book sales in big English-speaking markets. In 2016, self-published books made almost $1.25 billion in the US, and Amazon paid over $250 million to indie authors in 2019. The book publishing industry is going through big changes. Publishers need to keep up with what readers want, invest in digital, and work with self-publishing. The future of book publishing is exciting and full of possibilities. StatisticValueE-book sales in the US in 2020$2.7 billionE-book sales in the US in 2019$2.2 billionE-book sales as a percentage of total book sales in 202023%E-book sales as a percentage of total book sales in 201918%Indie authors' share of e-book sales in largest English-language markets30-34%Self-published units sold in the US in 2016Almost 300 millionSelf-published sales in the US in 2016$1.25 billionAmazon Kindle Unlimited payouts to indie authors in 2019Over $250 million

Impact of Technology on Publishing Formats

Physical Books and Ebooks The publishing world has changed a lot in recent years, thanks to new technology. Even though physical books are still big in the market, ebooks have become more popular because of digital changes. In the US, less than 20% of book sales happen in physical stores now. Amazon is a big player in the print book market, with over 40% of sales. Yet, young readers still love physical books, with 9 out of 10 choosing them over ebooks. Worldwide, the ebook market is expected to hit $32.19 billion by 2032, growing at 4.9% a year. Ebooks are easy to get and read on devices, which is why they're so popular. In the US, 75% of ebooks are sold through Amazon, and ebook sales have almost tripled since 2010. The growth of ebooks and the competition between physical and digital formats have changed the publishing world. Traditional publishers and bookstores are facing new challenges as more people choose digital options. At the same time, self-publishing and independent authors are becoming more important in the market. MetricValuePhysical Book Sales TrendsLess than 20% of overall book sales in the USAmazon's Print Book Market Share in the USOver 40%Preference for Physical Books Among Young Readers9 out of 10 young people still prefer physical booksProjected Ebook Market Size by 2032$32.19 billionEbook Market Growth Rate4.9% annuallyEbook Sales Share Through Amazon in the US75%Increase in Ebooks Sold per Year (2010-2020)Almost tripled Technology has brought both challenges and chances for authors, publishers, and readers. As things keep changing, it's important for everyone to adapt and move forward. This will help the publishing world stay strong and grow.

The Role of Social Media in Book Publishing

Social media has changed the way books are published. Sites like Goodreads, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube have changed how books reach readers. Goodreads, with over 120 million members, is now a key place for finding and talking about books. On TikTok, the #BookTok hashtag got over 42 billion views in 2022, showing how big social media is for promoting books. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people turned to Instagram to find new books and connect with other readers. YouTube book vloggers worked with publishers to make new books more popular. These facts show how important social media is for finding and marketing books. Social media does more than just help people find and talk about books. On Twitter, authors can talk directly with readers, building a community. This can lead to more book sales and readers who care more about the books. Social media also lets authors build their own brands and reach more people. The role of social media in publishing will keep growing. Publishers and authors need to use these platforms well to find readers, market books, and connect with readers. By using social media, the publishing world can reach more people than ever before. Social Media PlatformImpact on Book PublishingGoodreadsOver 120 million members globally, serving as a hub for book discovery and discussionTikTok#BookTok hashtag has garnered over 42 billion views, driving book discovery and trendsInstagram31% increase in book-related content during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating book discoveryYouTubePopular book vloggers collaborate with publishers to generate publicity for new releasesTwitterAllows authors to directly engage with their readers, fostering a sense of community and loyalty

Environmental Impact of Digital Publishing

The publishing world has changed a lot with digital tech. Now, ebooks and audiobooks are big, and how we make, send, and read books affects the planet. This change is big. One good thing about digital books is they're better for the planet. A Kindle makes about 168 kg of CO2 in its life, which is less than buying three paper books a month for four years. Also, printing books only when needed cuts down on waste. Ebooks and audiobooks are making publishing greener. A survey found more people want eco-friendly books, leading to more sales. Plus, an e-reader can save the carbon from making 40 to 50 paper books. But it's not just about making and sending books. Self-publishing online lets authors share their work worldwide without needing big print runs. This makes publishing more eco-friendly. Even so, we must think about the big picture. Back then, books cut down over 125 million trees a year. Now, thanks to better practices, that number is lower. Big publishers like Penguin Random House use only FSC-certified paper, which helps the planet. As books change, looking after the planet will matter more. Ebooks, audiobooks, and printing only what's needed are leading us to a greener future. They help lessen the digital book world's impact on the environment.

Challenges and Opportunities for Authors

Marketing and Discoverability Self-publishing is changing fast, bringing new challenges for authors. They must market their books and get them noticed without a traditional publisher's help. But, this means authors can be more creative in promoting their work. Understanding your target market is a big step for self-published authors. Know your genre, find your audience, and highlight what makes your book stand out. Use social media, create a great website, and join online groups to connect with readers. Getting readers to leave reviews is key for marketing. Reviews help people decide what to buy. Having many positive reviews can make your book more visible and trusted. Set your book's price right and use targeted ads to reach more readers. Self-publishing has its challenges, but authors have many chances to market their work and connect with readers. By using new strategies and digital tools, authors can beat the odds and build a loyal following. Audiobooks have opened new doors for self-published authors. With more people listening to audiobooks and tools to make them, authors can reach more readers. This can help them make more money and grow their audience. In short, self-published authors face big challenges in marketing and getting noticed. But, there are many chances to connect with readers and grow their audience. By staying up-to-date, using digital tools, and being creative in promoting their books, authors can succeed in the changing publishing world.

The Future of Audiobooks and Self-Publishing

As more people use digital devices, reading habits are changing. Self-publishing platforms like Amazon KDP are getting ready to take advantage of these changes. They will use new tech like AI and machine learning to make publishing easier. AI tools might soon help with editing and formatting, making it easier for authors. The growth of audiobooks and interactive ebooks also means new ways for authors to connect with readers. The rise of self-publishing shows how the book world is changing. Now, authors and small businesses have more control over publishing. This is thanks to the popularity of digital formats and easy access to self-publishing tools. Audiobooks are getting more popular, with sales reaching $2 billion in 2023. More people are listening to audiobooks, and many are reading more of them. This trend is great news for self-published authors. In self-publishing, some genres are growing faster than others. Romance is one of them, seeing an 11% increase. This shows how important it is for authors to find their niche to make more money. MetricValueAudiobook revenue in 2023$2 billionIncrease in audiobook listeners35% to 38%Increase in audiobook readers4% to 4.8%Increase in romance audiobook genre11% The self-publishing world is always changing. Authors need to keep up with new trends and tech. By using new tools and focusing on specific markets, self-published authors can succeed in the future.

Conclusion

Audiobooks have changed the self-publishing world a lot. They give authors new chances and challenges. Now, self-publishing platforms let independent authors make audiobooks and share them worldwide. This has changed how people read books today. Social media has also changed how we find and talk about books. It helps authors connect directly with readers and build a community. As the book industry keeps changing, audiobooks and self-publishing are set to grow even more. We can expect more new ideas and growth in this area. The self-publishing world is booming, growing 17% each year. This is thanks to audiobooks, which are getting more popular in the US by 16%. Read the full article

[thelensofyashunews]

NEMZZZ DOESN’T STOP DROPPING NEW SINGLE ‘WYA’ AHEAD OF WIRELESS PERFORMANCE THIS JULY

Manchester’s Nemzzz doesn’t stop, marking his return on Thursday 20th June with fiery new single ‘WYA’. Nemzzz’s ascent is truly unmatched, appearing earlier this month at Nicki Minaj’s sold-out record-breaking show at Manchester’s Co-op Live, following his debut mixtape drop in March that landed to critical acclaim and a spot at #17 in the UK album charts.

Continuing a release schedule that will give you whiplash, ‘WYA’ matches sharp, tongue-in-cheek wordplay and self-assured bars with producer Zel’s rolling, relaxed beat laced with bouncy vocal chops. The single arrives today with a video shot by Nemzzz’s go-to production powerhouse DonProd chronicling summer in Manchester; splicing footage of Nemzzz playing ‘ball with relaxed home studio sessions, FIFA with mates and late-night Chinese takeaway runs.

‘WYA’ follows the cinematic mixtape-chaser ‘ATM’, a cut brimming with icy industrial production and playful adlibs. The single landed in May to acclaim from The Face, NME, Complex UK, TRENCH + more. Nemzzz wrapped his sell-out second headline tour last month, hitting stages in Dublin, Glasgow, London (with a surprise drop in from K-Trap) and a homecoming show featuring Central Cee at Manchester Academy - Nemzzz’s biggest show to date in the city. Nemzzz will be returning to Wireless Festival this summer and has a sold-out EU tour set for this October and will embark on his first tour of AUS+NZ later this year - dates below.

Nemzzz’s debut mixtape DO NOT DISTURB landed in March to critical acclaim from the NME, The Observer, Fader, CRACK and HYPEBEAST alongside a slew of support from the likes of Spotify, Soundcloud, Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube Music. Over the course of the campaign the mixtape was spun across BBC Radio 1 with multiple singles topping the A List at 1Xtra, since launch the tape has racked up over 160M+ streams and has maintained a spot in the top 200 official albums chart. The 11-track tape is Nemzzz’s most expansive drop to date, an exploration of how the young artist is shaped by his upbringing and his fame. Marrying bars laced with Nemzzz’s wicked sense of humour, earworm hooks and a raw soulful-drill production - DO NOT DISTURB cemented Nemzzz’s status as the new titan of UK Rap. Nemzzz surprised fans the week after release, unveiling the Deluxe version featuring collaborations with rap heavyweights Lil Yachty, Headie One and K-Trap. 

Nemzzz is one of the most exciting breakout rap talents of recent years. Since bursting onto the scene at the tender age of 14, Nemzzz has relentlessly chipped away at his craft – building steady buzz amongst the industry, media and fans alike. An old head on young shoulders, Nemzzz helps his young fans navigate their way through growing pains. The rapper is shaped by his tough upbringing in Gorton, using his music to reflect on his experiences including heartbreak, fake friends, financial literacy, finding your own path, and managing mental health amid social media addiction.

2023 was a massive year for the young star with a consistent slate of releases including his debut EP Nemzzz Type Beat (which was pulled together in just 17 days in a flex of his innate talents) alongside a string of singles including ‘Therapy’ and ‘8AM IN MANNY’ which landed to props from some of the biggest rappers in the world - Drake and Lil Yachty. Last year saw Nemzzz deliver his first sold-out headline tour alongside performances at festivals including Glastonbury, Ibiza Rocks and more. With over 180M combined streams in 2023, 9 Million TikTok views, tips including BBC Radio 1xtra's Hot For 2023, Amazon Music x Hunger Magazine Ones To Watch, No Signal Class of ’23, Best Newcomer Nominee MOBO Awards 2022, plaudits from Pitchfork, The Face, DAZED, The Guardian, HYPEBEAST, CLASH, Complex UK and NME - Nemzzz is making serious moves.

[zenasflower]

Flowers in Liverpool

Flowers in Liverpool are coming up roses with a new local florist becoming a member of the Good Florist Guide. This is the gold standard in the industry and only the finest florists make it on to the list.

The Dutch Flower Shop in Wavertee is a flower lovers dream. Not only do they sell a fantastic range of gift bouquets, they also run a flower arranging school.

Booker Flowers and Gifts

Booker Flowers in Liverpool is a popular flower shop in Liverpool with excellent customer service. Their flowers are always fresh and delivered on time. They also have a wide selection of gifts and can help you find just the right one for your loved ones. Their prices are reasonable and they accept a variety of payment methods.

This florist is a member of the Good Florist Guide, which means they have passed a

thorough 50-point inspection covering local reviews, history, business standards, satisfaction, trust and price. Their flowers are sourced from sustainable sources and they offer free delivery within the local area.

Their services include wedding flowers, funeral tributes, and gifts for all occasions. They also offer same day and three-hour deliveries. They also deliver nationwide and internationally via Interflora. They’re rated ‘Best Liverpool Florist’ by Three Best Rated and were North West Regional Winners at the English Wedding Awards 2022. They can also create bespoke wedding flowers that reflect your unique vision.

The Dutch Flower Shop

The Dutch Flower Shop is a family-run independent florist that has been in business for over 30 years. They offer a wide variety of flowers and gifts for all occasions. Their services include delivering bouquets and plants to local postcodes, as well as setting up floral arrangements for weddings and special events. They also have a range of unique gifts, such as hat boxes and vases.

The flower arranging workshops offered by the shop are a great way to learn how to create your own flowers at home. The courses are led by experienced professionals and include insider tips. They can also be customized to suit your skill level and preferences.

The team at Go Dutch Florists in Liverpool are known for their high-quality arrangements and excellent customer service. Their florists are always ready to help, even at short notice. They have a wide selection of floral bouquets and casket sprays to choose from, and they are sure to exceed your expectations.

Wavetree

The village of Wavertree is a thriving suburb south of Liverpool city centre. It’s home to a lively high street and a large technology park. It also has a number of pubs, including the Smithdown Ten, which was once part of the famous ‘Smithdown Ten’ pub crawl.

In the 18th century, Wavertree became more and more a place for the merchant class to escape from the dirty, noisy city, and as a result, changed its landscape and economy. The octagonal village lock-up, also known as the Roundhouse (despite being a rounded structure) is a reminder of this. Wavertree lays claim to the last slip of common land in the area, on which stands the lock-up; stones engraved with the word ‘S’ once marked out the boundary between this and the village green.

Its character was cemented by the building of a town hall in 1872, whose motto is sub umbra floresco, or “I flourish in the shade.” Another landmark is Wavertree Playground, which was given to the city by an anonymous donor.

The Florist

The Florist is a heavily styled restaurant with a botany-inspired menu and Flowers for funerals in Liverpool. It's located between the Knowledge and Georgian quarters in what was once the Old Blind School pub. The whitewashed space is punctuated with pops of floral colour – there are two full bloom trees in the grand entrance hall and a floral photo wall as you head up the stairs to the main bar area.

Talene and her team are very friendly and professional and will go above and beyond to make sure you are happy with your order. I will definitely be using them again and recommending them to others.

The menu is extensive with options including brunch lunch and dinner. The Florist also offers a bottomless drink offer on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. They serve up great cocktails and wine as well as gin and beer. They also have a range of nibbles to go with the drinks such as bang bang cauliflower and salt and pepper chicken wings.

[renewenergy123]

Unveiling Solar Incentives in Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide to Solar Panel Incentives

In recent years, Virginia has seen a surge in interest in solar energy as homeowners seek sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional electricity sources. With abundant sunshine and a growing focus on renewable energy, the Commonwealth offers various incentives to encourage the adoption of solar panels. In this guide, we'll explore the range of solar incentives available in Virginia and how homeowners can benefit from them to make the switch to solar power.

Understanding Solar Incentives in Virginia

Solar incentives in Virginia are designed to make solar energy more affordable and accessible to homeowners, thereby promoting the transition to clean, renewable energy sources. These incentives come in various forms, including tax credits, rebates, and performance-based incentives. By taking advantage of these incentives, homeowners can significantly reduce the upfront cost of solar panel installation and enjoy long-term savings on their electricity bills.

Key Solar Panel Incentives in Virginia

1. Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): The federal solar investment tax credit allows homeowners in Virginia to deduct a percentage of the cost of solar panel installation from their federal income taxes. As of 2022, the federal ITC provides a tax credit equal to 26% of the cost of solar panel systems installed before the end of 2022. This tax credit is scheduled to decrease in subsequent years, making now an optimal time for homeowners to invest in solar energy.

2. Net Metering: Virginia's net metering program allows homeowners with solar panels to receive credit for the excess electricity they generate and feed back into the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity drawn from the grid during times when solar production is low, effectively reducing electricity bills. Net metering provides homeowners with a financial incentive to generate their electricity from solar energy and promotes grid stability by balancing supply and demand.

3. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs): SRECs represent the environmental attributes of solar energy generation and can be sold to utilities or other entities to meet renewable energy requirements. In Virginia, homeowners with solar panels can generate SRECs based on the amount of solar electricity produced by their systems. By selling these credits, homeowners can earn additional income and offset the cost of solar panel installation.

4. Local Utility Incentives: Many utility companies in Virginia offer incentives and rebates for solar panel installation to their customers. These incentives vary by utility company and may include cash rebates, performance-based incentives, and special financing options. By taking advantage of these incentives, homeowners can further reduce the cost of solar panel installation and accelerate their return on investment.

Navigating Solar Panel Incentives in Virginia

For homeowners in Virginia, navigating the various solar incentives available can seem overwhelming. However, with the right information and guidance, homeowners can make informed decisions and maximize their savings on solar panel installation. Here are some tips for navigating solar panel incentives in Virginia:

1. Research Available Incentives: Take the time to research the various solar incentives available in Virginia, including federal, state, and local incentives. Understand the eligibility requirements, application process, and potential savings associated with each incentive.

2. Consult with Solar Providers: Reach out to local solar providers to discuss your options and get personalized recommendations based on your energy needs, budget, and location. Experienced solar providers can help you navigate the complexities of solar incentives and find the best solution for your home.

3. Maximize Your Savings: Take advantage of all available incentives to maximize your savings on solar panel installation. Combine federal tax credits, state rebates, utility incentives, and financing options to lower the upfront cost of solar panels and achieve a faster return on investment.

4. Plan for the Future: Consider the long-term benefits of solar energy when making your decision. Solar panels not only provide immediate savings on electricity bills but also increase the value of your home and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for Virginia.

Conclusion

Solar incentives in Virginia offer homeowners a unique opportunity to embrace clean, renewable energy and take control of their electricity bills. By understanding the various incentives available and working with experienced solar providers, homeowners can make the transition to solar energy with confidence and enjoy the numerous benefits that solar power has to offer.

In summary, with abundant sunshine and a commitment to sustainability, Virginia is paving the way towards a cleaner, greener future powered by solar energy. By taking advantage of solar incentives, homeowners can unlock affordable solar energy solutions and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient energy grid for generations to come.

[custombuildershouston]

Budget-Friendly House Renovation Hacks for Houston Homeowners in Houston

Interior designing trends evolve every couple of years, and even when we aren’t talking about trends, keeping a home well-maintained and looking as good as new is no cakewalk. Although homes might need renovation in every two to five years, homeowners avoid house renovations because they think redoing a home comes with a hefty price tag. Whether it’s about upgrading the bathroom, adding a skylight to the bedroom, repairing the original Victorian hall tiles, or ripping off walls to create a more cohesive open layout, there are always cost-effective renovation ideas that can transform your vision of a dream home into reality.

Wondering where to start house renovation in Houston when you are on a budget? Well, here are some tips to inspire your home makeover project.

#1 Begin by Repainting

Nothing screams home makeover better than a fresh coat of paint. If you want to save your hard-earned money on house remodeling, but still want to make your home feel new, one of the easiest and cheapest things you can do is paint. Painting your interiors can be an excellent way to eliminate dirt, stains, or marks from your walls and give them a fresh feel and appeal. In addition, you can also hire professionals to repaint your exteriors and it can help improve the value of your home. 

#2 Update Cabinets

Let’s face it: new cabinets can cost you several thousands of dollars. You just don’t have to pay for the demolition, but you also have to pay for the cabinets as well as the installation costs. However, if you hire professionals, they can help you dismantle your current cabinets carefully, so you can make up for some of the money by selling them online or in a garage sale. 

If that’s also out of your budget, you can also work with seasoned contractors to alter your existing cabinets instead of replacing them entirely. It can surprise you how something as simple as switching the cabinet hardware can modernize your entire kitchen in a fraction of second. 

#3 Give Your Front Door a Makeover

You can give your front door a makeover to create a long-lasting impression. Anyone who visits your home sees the front door at first, and if your goal is to improve the curb appeal and impress your house guests at the very first instance, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders for transforming an existing door and reviving it according to the latest décor trends. 

#4 Make Space

In 2020, the construction of single-family homes in the Houston MSA reached its zenith at 36,700 units, surpassing the previous year's record. This marked the highest level since 2007, when 37,568 units were erected. Additionally, single-family home sales for 2020 outpaced the previous year by 11.5 percent, totaling 96,151 units sold.

Source: https://www.houston.org/houston-data/houston-housing-starts

In the crowd of homes, if you have bagged a small unit and in case your home feels too cramped, the best way to create some space is to switch to an open layout by knocking down the walls. You can also add mirrors to small spaces and add more windows to let in natural light and create the illusion of a bigger space. 

Conclusion

Did you know according to a Houzz study, the median amount spent by Americans on home renovations in 2022 was $22,000?

Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/home-renovations-repair-average-cost-price/#:~:text=The%20median%20amount%20Americans%20spent,spend%20was%20$140%2C000%20or%20more.

Many people feel home renovation is synonymous with cost-intensive tasks. However, revamping your space doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Just ensure to work with the right Houston renovation contractors who lay a detailed budget framework before the house renovation starts, and follow creative ideas perfect for redos or upgrades on a budget. Searching for professional renovation contractors in Houston to get your home makeover started? Contact the general contractors at Marwood Construction today for an exact estimate! 

[cheaphousespending]

How to Navigate a Cooler Housing Market

Let’s talk home selling tips. While significantly higher mortgage rates will undoubtedly make prospective home buyers feel a bit poorer, there’s still plenty of hope for home sellers in 2024! Sure, the lofty asking prices of 2022 and early 2023 have perhaps come down, but if you pan out a bit, property values remain well above pre-pandemic levels. So while you may have missed your chance to sell…

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Have you heard about the Boxing Day boom?

It’s believed Boxing Day is so named because it originated as a day to give gifts to the poor. Today, it’s synonymous with Boxing Day sales. But it may interest you to know that the property market is not immune to this buying fever. On Boxing Day, 2022, the number of sellers who put their property up for sale increased by 46% on Rightmove, and the number of views of homes for sale jumped by 20% between the week of Christmas and Boxing Day.*

A nice time to look Many of us spend more time with our homes at Christmas. It’s perfect for catching up with loved ones, eating, relaxing, and, let's face it, buying. Even if you are not in the market right now, it’s always nice to have a look. Thousands of homes present themselves, and you can feast on idyllic settings, awe-inspiring designs, perfect fireplaces, and outdoor spaces that take your breath away.

Selling up? With so many people putting their homes on the market and so many people viewing, the first week of January is rather busy for agents. Many report that the week of Christmas is the busiest time of the year. Making a fresh start as a new year appears is a very appealing idea. It’s also quite practical, as a vibrant market creates more opportunities to find your home or investment property. It’s exciting, saving you a bit of time, and with a big focus on pricing, you could gain by getting a good price for your current home while paying the right price for your new property.

Top tips for the big sale:

Kerb appeal - If your home looks good at first glance, it will have a vastly better chance of finding its new owners. A splash of paint or a little weeding can freshen up your home drastically.

Your garden - A good garden is a massive part of buying a home for more and more buyers. Make it look good to attract your buyer and get the true value of your home.

Pay attention to the price - Pricing your home correctly is invaluable in today's market. And with so many variables to consider, such as your home's unique selling points, market knowledge, and activity, the skills of a good agent are vital.

Get your valuation from a good agent - There are so many ways to get in touch with your agent. You can begin your move by getting an instant valuation and arranging face-to-face valuations, which will find any hidden value in your home.

Press the right buttons - As you peruse beautiful properties, it’s vital that you press the right buttons! Agent’s sites will give you options to begin your moving process immediately. Often, by booking a viewing, just follow the links.

Make the most of your agent - Prepare your rooms well. Your agent will be an expert in dressing your home. Utilising the latest technology to take high-quality pictures and possibly three-dimensional tours of your home at its best. Your agent will happily guide you in all aspects.

Remember, your agent is connected - Agents will be busy in early January, and their databases will be bustling with buyers and sellers who are eagerly waiting to move. You will be able to move quickly and link with more mortgage options.

Are you looking to get your home on the market in time for the boxing day boom? Book a property valuation with one of our local experts today.

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Big Projects

Hello, 2024 and thanks for being so good to me 2023.

I had some big projects this year, ones that made me sit back and finally feel a bit of relief from all of the hustle because they made my year more stable, and more interesting and gave me the juice to carry on.

I began this year with a contract at La Movida sewing and design creating images for their website so they can sell fabric and notions online. I had a sweet little setup and got to work with friends which was a huge bonus. Laurie is a powerhouse and a great inspiration to work with, always creating and laughing. This gig was a perfect start to 2023.

You know those projects that bring you joy, the ones that bring you the cool people to work with, the ones that set your creative heart ablaze with hope and love. I had a few and I am beyond grateful for them. So much so that I haven’t been able to go back and look at the images like I usually do because I don’t want to break the seal. I just want the memory to stay as it was and not worry about adding the images to my website or social platforms.

I got to work with some really cool new clients like Denu and Home Team Models. Denim and diverse models are two things that I really look for and I found both in these clients.

I got to work for an entire semester creating marking and social media content at LaSalle College and I look forward to joining them again this year to make more magic.

I got to work with a wonderful stylist and create content for The Ecologyst where we received some amazing SWAG after the shoot.

I spent so much time in the studio working with wonderful models doing digitals, doing creatives and capturing my own denim collection. Alex Waber runs Doris and I was lucky enough to rent there for a year and a half. He is supported by Monika an amazing model and stylist who I got to work with creatively and commercially. We also celebrated the new year together in 2022/23 with some crazy karaoke.

I made some amazing new friends in this industry and was able to let my restaurant gigs go. I did pick up a part-time gig at The Only on Davie. It’s a brand new location and a sister store to their fabulous location on Commercial Drive. I love vintage and I have found a wonderful new home there with some great staff and amazing finds.

2023 was a challenging year for all of us and as we continue into this next chapter I know we are holding our noses as we are about to jump into what feels like the deep end. I just wanted to give a whole heap of gratitude for what I was lucky enough to experience because I also could not have done any of this without the amazing friends and clients I have. To you, I tip my hat and I can’t wait to create and collaborate our way through this next year too.

I will leave you with one of my favourite images from last year. I am still sorting through the mound that I have to choose from to update my websites, for now, 1 new one will have to do.