NEWSLETTER - NOVEMBER 10, 2006

CREIG SAYS...

Dear Friend:

It is hard to believe that the holidays are just around the corner. Thanksgiving is in less than two weeks, with Hannukah and Christmas not far behind. Why not celebrate the holidays in a new home? If you are considering buying a new home, there is not time like the present!

According to Michelle Mathews of Prosperity Mortgage, our In-House Mortgage Specialist, "Rates are still at historical lows. A 30-year fixed rate mortgage is just below 6.5% with no points. It is a great time to buy a home whether it is your first home, a vacation home, or an investment property. The great news is that most sellers are negotiating. From a financing perspective, buyers can ask for seller assistance towards closing costs and points. This will allow them to lower their monthly payment and/or total cash needed to close."

The Northrop Team has many wonderful homes listed in all price ranges. To view Northrop Team listings, click here. To view ALL available listings, click here. To register for FREE home updates, click here. Or, visit one of our Open Houses this weekend. We would love to meet you!

Best regards,
Creig Northrop

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THE NORTHROP TEAM IN THE COMMUNITY

We realize how important it is to give back to the communities in which we work and live. Each year, The Northrop Team supports a variety of local organizations and non-profits, in addition to hosting our own Team events.

Check out Northrop Team Community Events

INSIDER TIPS

ARE YOU READY FOR WINTER?
Take Steps Now to Prepare Your Home

As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it is time to prepare your home for the cold. Doing so will help you reduce your heating bills and avoid potentially expensive problems down the road. To help you get started, we have included a list of areas to check around your home.

THE EXTERIOR

The Roof
Look for cracked or missing shingles, bald spots on shingles, missing or damaged flashing, and other conditions that may let moisture or water into your home.

Gutters
If your gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, clean them yourself or call a specialist. When gutters become clogged, they will fill with rainwater and overflow. The added weight of the water can cause them to become loose.

Siding
Walk around your house and check the siding for cracks, damage, and separations. If the damage is minimal, you can seal it with clear caulking compound (or buy paintable caulk and touch it up with paint). If the repairs needed are serious, you may need to contact a contractor.

Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping prevents drafts and winter heat loss. If it is damaged, it is simple to repair. If damaged, it is more cost-effective to replace it instead of trying to repair it.

Windows & Doors
Screens can block out sunlight, thereby reducing the heat that the light brings into your home. Remove screens and store them in a safe place until warm weather returns. Check around windows and doors for drafts. Use caulk to seal the gaps.

Exterior Faucets
Drain exterior faucets and shut off the water for the winter. One of the most common problems in the winter is freezing pipes. If you have a hose outside, drain it of water and put it away for the winter.

THE INTERIOR

Heating System
Put a new air filter in your heating system. If you have baseboard heat, remove the cover and vacuum through the "fins" to improve air quality and efficiency.

Thermostat
Install a programmable thermostat. These are inexpensive and will save you money on your heating (and cooling) bills. To save money, experts suggest setting the temperature at 68º when you are home and 65º when you are not home.

Fireplace & Chimney
If you use your wood-burning fireplace regularly, experts suggest that you have your chimney(s) swept and cleaned once each year. Hire a professional chimney sweep to inspect for soot, dust, creosote, and dirt buildup. Also check to be sure that the damper closes tightly to keep cold air out when the fireplace is not in use.

Plumbing
If you have pipes located in unheated areas of the home such as attics, crawl spaces, or uninsulated outside walls, they can freeze and burst. It is best to insulate them with flexible heating cable.

OTHER HELPFUL HINTS:

• Scrub and seal your deck.
• Drain the gas from your lawnmover into a gas can and store in a safe location.
• If you have a swimming pool, drain and cover it.
• Cover your outdoor furniture and store it in a dry place.

For answers to other Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), click here.
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OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING...

"My house was for sale through other companies several times in the past few years and The Northrop Team were the only ones that got the job done! A smooth process from listing through settlement. Thank you."

~ William & Sheila Tempchin

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