Monday, 6 July 2009

The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Solar Power House

Solar power is a renewable source of electricity, which is available in any bit of the planet. Learning the advantages and disadvantages of having a solar power house can help you in making an educated call as to whether to switch to solar or stay with utility-purchased electricity.

Since the physics behind solar electricity can be confusing to many people, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of solar power house can offer you a more clear perception on how a system works to keep power and water bills low, preserve natural energy and save the earth from pollution.

Financial And Environmental Advantages Of Solar Power House

When you choose to build a solar power house, the first investment could be an enormous quantity of money. However, since many companies and regimes offer incentives and refunds by spreading the expenses of your solar electricity system, then you save money in the future because energy production from the sun is totally without costs.

Since solar electricity does not require any fuel, you will not be affected by the demands and possible rate rises of gas. As a result, you can instantly save cash for both utility-based and fuel-based costs.

Although many people weigh the advantages and disadvantages of solar electricity before opting to get a system, some customers immediately find the eco-friendly benefits of solar electricity to be advantageous. Because solar electricity is clean, sustainable and renewable, you are helping to save the environment by preventing air pollution from nitrogen oxide, carbon-dioxide, mercury or sulphur dioxide - the common elements found in standard energy resources.

The Downside Of Solar Power

While some sources target the advantages that a solar energy system can offer you, it's important to realise both advantages and disadvantages of solar energy to make sure that you are ready to face monetary responsibilities, legalities and other issues associated with mounting a solar panel on your rooftop.

The major disadvantage of solar power house is the initial cost of installing the system. Since the materials employed in building a solar electricity system are quality and high-cost components, one solar electricity system can be identical to paying a few years of electricity bills. While monetary options are available, not everybody can afford to substitute a higher finance with their standard utility-purchased power.

Another obstacle of solar energy power is that you aren't certain to receive constant power. After the sun sets, your energy source is totally gone till the sun rises again the next day. However this problem can be solved by installing a storage device or building a wind energy system, so that you will have sufficient power for home.

Now that you know the advantages and downsides of a solar power house you can now make an informed decision as to whether your private circumstances, location and wants can be met by a solar power system.

About The Author:
If you've enjoyed all the exciting information you read here about Solar Power House, you'll love everything else you find at Solar Power House.

Blythewood Real Estate - Community Neighborhood Information

Blythewood SC Real Estate

Blythewood, South Carolina, is a suburb of Columbia and is conveniently located about 20 miles Northeast of the City of Columbia. Blythewood has served as a “last stop” before the 75 mile drive to Charlotte, NC on Interstate 77, as it did in the mid 1800’s for the railroad. Locals pride themselves on the towns quaint setting and charming neighborhoods. Just recently the Town of Blythewood created a new master plan to construct a multi million-dollar community park to service residents and maintain the country-like reputation that Blythewood is known for.

New developments are becoming popular in Blythewood and offer a variety of amenities and unique characteristics that keep this small town consistent to its original landscape. Many business parks and commercial real estate developments, such as Montgomery Ridge, have maintained the beauty of large estates while incorporating the ongoing changes within the community. Residential real estate developments in Blythewood have also tried to maintain low-density country living. Much of the Real Estate for sale in Blythewood consists of large parcels, equestrian farms, waterfront properties and golf course lots. In relation to homes for sale in Columbia, Blythewood has many differences that Columbia Neighborhoods may not offer. Here are a few that are popular and well known:

Longcreek Plantation

Neighborhoods like Longcreek Plantation offer 1-4 acre homesites with resort style amenities such as golf, swimming, horseback riding, fishing and tennis within the community. Although Longcreek is broken into several neighborhoods, it began as one development in the mid 1970’s. The focal point of Longcreek Plantation is Lake Columbia. This is the lake that splits Windemere Golf Course and the Columbia Country Club. Longtown Road, which is the outer band of Longcreek Plantation, consists of a mix of older and newer homes with restrictive covenants prohibiting lot sizes to be split into less than 2 acres. Many of the traditional and contemporary homes in this section contain 4-10 acres and are now in high demand. With the proximity to Northeast Columbia and Fort Jackson, it is no wonder that this is a popular destination for visitors and locals. Neighborhoods that fall within Longcreek Plantation neighborhood include Windemere, Runnymede, Fox Meadow, Westlake Farms, Westlake Woods, Club Colony, Club Cottages, Crescent Lake and The Greens. Home prices have a broad range and homes listed today average just under $400,000.

Cobblestone Park

Originally called The University Club, Cobblestone Park has become a new sensation for Blythewood. Located in the heart of Blythewood, this 700-acre + development offers a plush living environment. The main difference between Longcreek Plantation and Cobblestone Park is that it is filled with new construction of custom homes and small lot sizes. The golf course is the main attraction of this area spanning across the entire improved development and once was home to “Monday after the Masters”. There is still an abundant supply of lots for sale on the golf course with some interior lots that have fallen as low as $20,000. Today the average lot price is around $80,000(of the 75 listed on the MLS today) and of the 23 MLS home listings, the average is just above $400,000. In addition to foreclosed lots, there are also a few high-end custom foreclosed homes in this golf community.

Crickentree
Crickentree is another Blythewood neighborhood that is a diamond in the rough. Initially developed as Blythewood Plantation in the 1980’s, Crickentree has undergone several exchanges of ownership. It is now officially named The Golf Club of South Carolina at Crickentree and is owned by the same company that owns The Country Club of SC in Florence, SC. In Crickentree you will find custom homes from about $375,000 to nearly $2M in this ongoing development. The challenging 18-hole course also offers some golf front property for sale. Amenities fall slightly short of other developments in the area, but with the new YMCA and the residential development of Lake Carolina neighboring Crickentree, you’ll likely find anything that you need minutes from the entrance gates of Crickentree. Crickentree offers more of a traditional neighborhood setting with the benefits of golf.

Ashley Oaks
Ashley Oaks is quite different from the other neighborhoods because it is not geared toward the golf community. I would say that it is a highly desired community with modest homes. Mike Shelly, who is a well-known local developer, created this neighborhood in a similar fashion that his other developments are known for. Shelly’s image of a suburban Blythewood may be one of the contributing factors of Blythewood’s popularity. He incorporates quality and affordability for buyers of a median income. Ashley Oaks is filled with a handful of local builders that have gained Shelly’s respect throughout the years. The lot sizes here are probably more comparable to that of neighborhoods in Columbia, SC. The design of the neighborhood and the minimal, yet logical, greenspace makes for an inviting environment. Homes for sale in Ashley Oaks today are listed on the MLS starting around $250,000 and up to $545,000. Many of the homes top 3500 SF and are constructed of brick with a crawl space foundation. The neighborhood is located off of Fulmer Road and is truly one of the hidden treasures in the community.

This is just a few of the neighborhoods that are in Blythewood, SC. There are plenty of other small neighborhoods in this area that most buyers are not aware of. I have lived in the Blythewood community since 1985 and know the history and reputation for most of the Blythewood and Columbia, SC area. As a real estate agent I provide a service to the public to help them in real estate transaction as a buyer or sellers agent.

This opinion/article was written on June 15, 2009 and the information of market data reflects this date.



About The Author:
Brian Hunt is a licensed SC Real Estate Agent that specializes in Land and Homes in Blythewood and the Columbia SC Real Estate market.

What You Should Know About Miami Beach Condos

Miami Beach is one of the biggest destination spots in the United States. The tourist, fashion, and entertainment is what has made the city famous. Many people decide that they want to move to Miami Beach because it has so much to offer. Those that may move to the city in the future will want to see what the city has to offer in terms of condos. Miami Beach condos are just as elegant as the houses and are less expensive.

The southern beach area of the city is the most famous area for purchasing Miami Beach condos. Part of this is due to the area being the historical district and the original vacation area back in the day. Fifth Street offers several high rise condos that are home to many tourists. These Miami Beach condos are well known for their luxurious lifestyle and have much to offer visitors. The South Beach district also houses various forms of entertainment, shopping, and places to eat.

Miami Beach has become a hot spot for condos recently. The market for condos has increased by 33 percent. In reality, condos are now responsible for 13 percent of the housing market. Many owners of apartments have decided to join the condo market by renovating their apartments into condos. You may wonder why the increase of condos is so great. Part of it is due to the fact that investors keep investing into Miami. Many investors are focusing on investing in Miami Beach condos.

Investors are investing in the region due to several different factors. The biggest factor is the climate. With it being warm all year there are many people that want to live here. Thus the market is always expanding as people keep moving to the area. Miami Beach condos offer highly desired ocean views and easy access to the beach. Also because of the climate, this region of the state is the most populated. It is easy to see why investors would want to invest in Miami Beach.

Miami Beach condos come at a high price. The average condo price for Miami Beach is about $500,000. If you are looking to sell a condo in Miami Beach then you can expect it to take about 150 days.

Many Miami Beach condos are owned by people who live out of the country or out of state. Having a second home is a great way for people to getaway when they want a vacation. During the summer months there are many condos rented out because out of state buyers only stay there during the winter months. These buyers want to be close to their families but like to be away from the cold weather. In the past the area has thrived solely on tourism but this is no longer the case. There is still a lot of tourism, however the city also has a vast real estate market. The Miami Beach condos real estate market shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.


About The Author:
Genaro Jennings is a real estate investor and realtor that specializes in Miami Beach Condos as well as the Greater Miami area.