Kara's Blog

I was quite surprised to see a truck delivering windows next door the other day.   I just can't get over how fast things happen.

Here's a look after most of the windows were installed:

It's really coming along.    'pre-construction' pricing won't last much longer -  call me today to take advantage of these great prices!

Park Place residential units - perfectly located in beautiful downtown Aiken.

Pre-construction prices won't last!!

2 Bedroom/2 Bath:  $429,000

3 Bedroom/2 Bath:  $489,000

You couldn't ask for a better location than this!  Perfectly Downtown :)        If you are thinking about a 'Southern get-away' ----  this would be ideal!     A place to get away to --   a place for family and friends to get-away to.....     You could even make a few bucks and rent it out for Master's week (next year... (if you weren't coming down for the tourny)

Give  a call!      Be sure to let me know you saw my blog :)       Jane Page and I are looking forward to helping you.

Summer is officially here :)   Woo hoo!!   For me, that means beach trips.....and that football season is just around the corner!  :)     

Save money this summer on your power bill - and treat yourself to an NFL or College ball game this fall!

Here's how:

1.  Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or above.   Each degree lower than that can significantly increase your cooling costs, especially in our historic (and older) homes with less thermal efficiency.  

2. Install a programmable thermostat.   Programmable thermostats allow you to conveniently maintain the comfort of your home when you're there and reduce energy costs when you're not.  Be sure to install a thermostat compatible with your HVAC system.  (If you rent, you will need to check with your landlord first)

3.  Maintain your HVAC.  Have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year to make sure it's operating at peak efficiency. (If you rent, be sure to ask your landlord if it has been done)

4.  Used fans in place of or as a suppplement to air conditioning.  This will allow you to increase the thermostat setting and still be comforable.  Turn fans off when you leave a room.

5.  Close window coverings.  Keep window covering closed to keep the heat out.  (this will also protect your carpets and upholstery from sun fading)

6.  Protect your home from cooling loss.   Caulk, seal and weather-strip around all seams,cracks, and openings.  Pay special attention around windows and exterior doors. 

7.  Set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.  Also consider adding a water heater tank insulation wrap.  (If you rent, have your landlord turn it down - and ask about the insulation wrap. Offer to pay for it, of course ! )

Some of these tips help to save money in the winter season as well.   Don't forget to change your air filters once a month :)    Oh - and those new squiggly 'energy saver' lightbulbs really DO SAVE ENERGY, which in turns SAVES YOU MONEY!!

Let's save some money this summer and have fun with it!!

Give us a call if we can help with your Aiken area real estate needs.   Ask for Jane Page or Kara - The Carolina Real Estate Company - 333 Park Avenue, Aiken SC.  803-648-8660.   Toll Free:  800-880-0108

They say this is an annual event - but how can it be that I have never heard about it before???!!!    We do have some great festivals here in downtown Aiken :)

Check it out:

What:  Annual Tomato Festival

Where:  Aiken County Farmers Market

Location:  897 Richland Ave, E  - Downtown Aiken

When:   Saturday, July 11.

More Info:  803.642-7761

  This annual event offers an opportunity to sample a huge variety of locally grown farm fresh tomatoes and items prepared from them.  

Locally grown fruits, vegetable & flowers, as well as fresh eggs, milk, baked goods and crafts will also be available.  

Stop by the farmers market to get some fresh 'in season' fruits and veggies :)