Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Why Now? Why Not?


I know people are still concerned about the economy and what’s going to happen next. The economy has been beaten up, for sure. But all indicators (even from the news media!!!) have been that we are on our way to not only an improving but to a booming economy once again. If you have been considering a remodeling or renovation project on your home, this news is GREAT for you!! And it is why now is the best time ever to jump off that fence you’re sitting on and move forward with your project!!

Why NOW???

1. Consider this: That remodeling project that you have been dreaming of can cost you up to 20% less today than it would have a year ago. It might seem wise to wait for the economy to turn around before beginning a renovation, but when it does turn around – and indications are that it’s already started to happen - waiting too long will mean that today's discounts will no longer be available.

2. You can make your home more energy efficient now and save money for decades to come. And you can even reduce your monthly expenses immediately.

With The Federal Tax credits, which are only good in 2009, you can save an extra $1,500 on qualifying new windows, doors, skylights, HVAC systems, roofs, insulation and/or water heater.
AND there is a 30% Federal and 15% State Tax credit on a new Solar Hot Water System.*

3. We’ve been there for you and your home for the last 50 years, and with your help we’re looking forward to being here for you as long as your house is!

We’ve told you to watch out of the low-price scam, the one-man guy in truck - and now you know why. When the home-improvement business was going gangbusters, anyone with a pickup truck and a metal clipboard could call himself a general contractor. He didn't need experience, skill, or good working relationships with subcontractors to find business. Times are tougher, and it's these marginal guys who have gone under - nowhere to be found in case of a problem.

4. Almar is looking to fill our schedule and keep our team working. Instead of waiting months, we can get you project started quicker – and we’ll deliver for you with the best customer service in years. We don’t want to add to that unemployment rate, so we’ve been offering some of the best prices you’ll see for a long time to come.

5. With the fall - off in demand, construction materials are readily available, and many have come down in price. BUT we are starting to get word from our suppliers that prices are starting to creep up already. So we are encouraging people to take action now, before the increases come.

6. If you have three things— A good credit rating, at least 20 percent equity in your home, and proof of income—lenders are more eager than ever to extend fat lines of credit.

According to Joel Sugarman, Mortgage Broker for locally owned Rockland Trust bank; “Facts indicate now may be much better than later to obtain financing for renovation because rates are at historic lows; the availability of equity in one's home, an often used source of funds, is declining with property values; and lending guidelines in the areas of credit, loan to value, and debt to income continue to tighten."

7. Utilizing your home for your “staycation” is very popular this summer. A staycation (or stay-cation, or stacation) is when your family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions. Staycations are a great opportunity to utilize your renovated space, finished basement, home theatre, new kitchen or new deck!!! This new view on making your home an Oasis have achieved high popularity in the current hard times.

8. Let’s be honest - it’s going to take a while for Real Estate sales to get back to where they once were. Many of our customers ate coming to us saying that they have decided to stay put and make their current home their dream home. And that means you can truly enjoy the improvements you make. We are hearing people say that they really want to enjoy being at home, and staying at home.

9. If and when you do put your house on the market, shoppers will appreciate the upgrades you've made. Making improvements now will best position you to make your move as soon as the market picks up, and will allow you to get more for your house when you do sell. While everyone else is calling contractors for those get-set-to-sell projects, you won't be scrambling. Your house will be ready. And you will have had the enjoyment of the improvements and cost savings in the meantime!!

You’ve been waiting and waiting to get something started. It’s time to stop waiting and start moving, take advantage of the current situation and get your project done while the deals are still available.

If you’d like more information about getting your project started call Craig at 781-826-2577.



*check federal tax credit website & with your tax advisor for specific details.

Monday, May 18, 2009

FREE Hot Water with a Solar System

Almar is pleased to announce that we are now carrying Solar Hot Water Systems from GroSolar, a New England Company.

Solar Hot Water systems will help our clients reduce their monthly bills by utilizing the sun rather than non renewable resources like oil or electricity. And since the sun will be around for something like 5 Billion more years you don't have to worry about running out of hot water.


Our "groSolar systems offer clean, sustainable energy solutions which help reduce your impact on the environment while saving you money. Reliable solar hot water (SHW) systems reduce your energy use, providing independence from traditional heating sources. Domestic hot water is the second highest energy cost in a typical household.

A solar hot water production system can provide enough energy to meet 70% of your hot water needs, even in cold climates. In addition to saving money, groSolar’s solar solutions also reduce your reliance on imported fossil fuels and electricity, therefore helping to beat global warming.

SHW systems are:
Reliable: they are designed to provide hot water using the clean and safe power of the sun first and other fuel sources as backup.

Simple: Everything you need is one phone call away: expert installation, premium equipment and expert engineering.

Renewable: The sun rises every day and provides the cleanest and greenest energy available. Remember - renewable energy has a fixed cost; the sun may rise but the price of its rays do not!
Affordable: Tax credits and state incentives reduce your cost, making SHW affordable everywhere.

Aesthetically Pleasing: These solutions look fabulous on every home. Businesses may also integrate onto any type of roof. "*


For more information about your Solar Hot Water options call Terry at 781-826-2577; almar@almarbuilding.com


*Courtesy of the GroSolar website.
** Photo courtesy of GroSolar website