Contributed by Doug Watson, CEO of Frontier Title What is Title Insurance?Title insurance protects real estate owners and lenders from property loss or damage they could experience from liens or defects in the property’s title. Unlike other insurance options that require monthly premiums, title i
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09/10/2015
I am working with an investor client who is interested in low cost condo and townhome properties. We are, of course, considering location to public transportation, changing neighborhood demographics, etc. A new component of the due diligence for these properties is checking the Bed Bug Reg
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09/21/2010
This weekend I attended a two day workshop in Pittsboro on solar power. We discussed the pros and cons of grid tied systems (about 95% of systems), hybrid grid tied systems (more complicated but useful in areas that have frequent power outages) and off grid systems. Other topics and exercises
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09/20/2010
The holiday season is fast approaching. If fighting the crowds, the long lines and the parking lot at the Carrboro Post Office hold no appeal to you, drive on down 54 west to Harry's Market. The have a contract post office with friendly staff and rarely a wait. In addition, you can shop for gi
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09/17/2010
Planning to make improvements to your home? You can include them in the cost basis of your house and thus reduce your capital gains tax if you ever sell ( be sure to keep the receipts). If you're making repairs, however, there is no tax benefit. What's the difference? According to the IRS, an im
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09/16/2010
When things break, they always break at the worst time. You know, on the weekend, during a party, etc. When our well pump stopped working it was in mid shower on the weekend. After a tirade of colorful language, my husband did the smart thing. He turned off the well pump. We had enough hot wa
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09/15/2010
Many lenders no longer require a survey. While most Realtors and closing attorneys recommend them, cash strapped buyers often opt not to purchase a survey. Here is another reason to get a survey: The title insurance you buy will cover only the lender and excempt the buyer. In other words....if
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09/15/2010
Bike to Weaver St. Market in Hillsborough! This home has two and half baths, the master on the main and two additional bedrooms upstairs. The marble surround fireplace is the focal point in open concept living space downstairs. The charming wood fenced backyard provides entertaining and f
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09/09/2010
At a recent Green Builders meeting the following stats were relayed: Most newer homes lose up to 10% of the heat in the duct work. Homes 15 years and older lose about 40% in the duct work. THAT got my attention. And energy prices are expected to increase by 50% in the next 7 years. Now. while
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09/08/2010
Fall is the perfect time for planting shrubs and trees. Planting shrubs and trees is the perfect time to accidentally cut the underground power lines. To prevent meeting your neighbors in this manner, call The One Call Center at 1.800.632.4949 a few days before you plan on planting. The
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09/08/2010