Happy February 29th

How nice of our calendar to compensate for its seasonality every four years and give us the extra day to put in a little more work, perhaps play hooky, or maybe, just celebrate another day with family and friends! Whatever the choice for you, enjoy!

And speaking of a little extra time, make sure you plan on taking some this First Friday at the Gallery at Harmon's & Barton's in order to fully take in the stunning work of our March exhibitor, landscape artist Neil Wyrick(www.freewebs.com/neilwyrickart/)! Neil has been painting his fingers to the bone creating several series of countryscapes, harborscapes and cityscapes for this show; and the Gallery walls are on fire with earthy hues, dramatic shadows and brilliant colors of the Greater Portland landscape. Neil has been painting for over 20 years, has exhibited throughout the Northwest and here in Maine where he makes his home in Falmouth. His oils are heavily influenced by the works of Edward Hopper and have a sense of energy and activity giving them a life of their own. Neil's favorite time of day to capture is around sunset, he enjoys trying different color combinations right on the canvas, and he loves watching his paintings evolve from the abstract to the realist painting with the last strokes on the canvas. Join Neil and all of us here at the Gallery this Friday evening for fine art, lovely flowers (the spring ones have arrived!) and warm conversation - it's an exhibit and sale you won't want to miss!!

Just a reminder as well to mark your calendars for the Portland Flower Show "Celebration!" March 7 - 11 at the Portland Company campus on Fore Street. Tickets may be purchased at Harmon's & Barton's Portland, Sawyer & Company, Minott's Flowers or on-line at www.portlandcompany.com . It's a time-honored annual event celebrating spring, gardening and landcaping in Maine, and the talented local vendors who create amazing exhibits with rock and blooms.
 
 

 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

7 Ways to Say Thanks

It's hard to go through the day without hearing the words "thank you" or "thanks." However, much of the time, people say those words quickly and without much meaning. Sure, a quick "thanks" is appropriate when someone holds a door for you or hands you something.

But when it comes to saying thank you to a client, partner, or friend for a more significant gesture, it's important to go the extra mile. This is even more crucial in today's business environment when success is so dependent on personal connections.

So how do demonstrate your appreciation? Here are 7 ways to say thank you…to strengthen your relationships…and to stand out in the mind of the person you're thanking.

1. Classic and Classy. Mailing thank you notes has dwindled in today's email business environment. That means you can really stand out and demonstrate your sincere appreciation by hand writing a brief thank you note and mailing it. Not sure what to write? No problem. Check out this simple advice for writing a thank you note.

2. A Little Surprise. Little surprises can be a fun way to thank a client, colleague, or friend. You may want to write a thank you note, but then slip it into a file that you hand the person. Or you could consider getting the person's jacket for them when they get ready to leave a meeting…and then slip the note into a pocket just before you hand it to him or her.

3. See You in the Papers. If you have a newsletter, social media page or blog, thank people publicly. A short "shout out" can go a long way.

4. Phone a Friend. There's something about hearing a person's voice…and it's even better when they call just to say thank you rather than to ask for something.

5. Face-to-Face. Dropping by to say thank you goes a long way to demonstrating your sincerity and to strengthening your relationships.

6. Time Is On Your Side. People seem busier than ever. That's why making time for someone means so much. One way to thank a person is simply to schedule some time for coffee or to chat. Then, turn off your cell phone and give him or her your undivided attention.

7. A Good Cause. Sometimes it's not appropriate to give money or a gift. That's ok. You may find that a unique and sincere gesture is to make a donation to a worthy cause that the person cares about. Then, let the person know about your donation as a way of saying thanks.
 
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Western Promenade Neighborhood Association Meeting

Just a reminder of our General Neighborhood meeting, open to all residents of the neighborhood, next Monday, 3/5 at 7:00 at Sills Hall at Waynflete. Sills Hall can be accessed from the entrance to the Performing Arts Center, just off Storer Street.


The focus of the meeting will be the proposed rezoning of the Williston West Church. We will provide a summary of existing zoning, terms of the proposed rezoning, and identify issues arising from the proposal.

The Board of Western Promenade Neighborhood Association has not yet taken a position on the proposal and looks forward your input - reactions, concerns, ideas.

Please come and let your neighbors know about the meeting, in case they are not on the email list...

For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/wpromneighassn?hl=en.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

4 Tips for a Cozy Décor

4 Tips for a Cozy Décor


Love the cozy feeling holiday decorations bring to your home? Here are four great tips for creating that ambiance any time of year:

Family photos. Groupings of family photos should be first on your list. Find shelf space or side tables that could use a personal touch, and then add a few family photos. The frames don't have to match, but they should coordinate...and they should have the same design as the mood you're trying to create. If it's coziness you seek, try adding rich wood frames and classic designs to your décor.

Heirlooms and antiques. You'd be surprised what an antique camera can add to a display of family photos. Or how an antique vase can set the tone for an entire room. These items are inexpensive to purchase at an antique store, but if you have a family heirloom with a story it's even better.

Personal or seasonal touches. Remember, your family and your community are unique and should be celebrated. So, for example, if your family took a unique vacation to a sandy beach last year, you can fill a decorative jar with the sand and surround it with a photo or two. Or, you can simply bring natural elements–such as pinecones or autumn leaves–inside and place them in a large bowl or dish with photos or candles.

Warm the senses. Don't forget to fill the air with a fresh fragrance that fits the mood you're creating. Often, those fresh scents are the first things that visitors notice. So consider lighting scented candles, purchasing plug-in air fresheners with seasonal scents, or just baking homemade cookies before company arrives.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

MINI HERB FRITTATAS

MINI HERB FRITTATAS


Yields 12 mini frittatas

8 eggs
8 tablespoons heavy cream
1 cup finely grated Parmesan
2 packed tablespoons finely chopped dill
2 packed tablespoons chopped chives
zest of 1 lemon
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Garnish:
5 very thin slices prosciutto, torn into 3-inch-long strips

½ cup arugula

Heat oven to 300 degrees F. Beat the eggs in a medium bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and whisk to combine. Pour the mixture into greased mini muffin tins, just shy of the top. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes; the eggs should start to look set. Turn on the broiler and cook until the frittatas are puffed and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Top each frittata with a small strip of prosciutto and 1 to 2 arugula leaves and serve warm or at room temperature.

http://article.homebydesign.com/pages/article/HBD_FEB_12_04/1148/index.html


John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

January Existing Home Sales

The housing data released last week continued to be encouraging. January Existing Home Sales rose 4% from December to the highest level since May 2010. The inventory of listed existing homes declined 1% to the lowest level since March 2005. January New Home Sales again exceeded expectations.

John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Paper Trail

 Improving efficiency in the office means greater productivity
“Look at your office as a bull’s-eye,” she says. “You are the center of that bull’s-eye. The things you use more frequently should be close to the center; things used less frequently should be moved farther toward the outer circles.” For example, paperwork addressed on a daily basis must be kept in a place within easy reach. 
Finish reading the tips here:
http://article.yourhomeandlifestyle.com/pages/article/YHL_FEB_12_02/18979/index.html

John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Portland Water District: Sebago Lake Report

Sebago Lake supplies water for more than 200,000 people in Southern Maine. This annual water quality report explains where your water comes from & more. You can read the full report here:

http://www.pwd.org/pdf/water_resources/SOTL_2012.pdf

John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday is the first day of the Christian season of Lent and a sign of penitence. During Lent, Christians must fast and give up things they like. The Lenten season lasts for 46 days.

On Ash Wednesday, Christians go to mass and receive ashes on their foreheads in the sign of the cross. It is a reminder of from "Ashes to Ashes and Dust to Dust". It means that we came from dust and we shall return to dust, referring to our earthly bodies, not our souls.

Did you Know? The ashes you receive are from the prior years palms.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Mardi Gras - Fat Tuesday!

It's time to party it up, and ....eat!!
Fat Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday. It is also known as Mardi Gras Day or Shrove Day. It is a day when people eat all they want of everything and anything they want as the following day is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of a long fasting period for Christians. In addition to fasting, christians also give up something special that they enjoy. So, Fat Tuesday is a celebration and the opportunity to enjoy that favorite food or snack that you give up for the long lenten season.

Nowhere on the planet is Fat Tuesday celebrated more than on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The day is celebrated with festivities and parades and of course much food and drink. While in New Orleans, a big tradition is in wearing Mardi Gras beads and giving them to others. And tradition requires that if a guy gives a girl some beads, she has to do something for him.....this can be just loads of fun.........

Did You Know? On Bourbon street in New Orleans, store owners coat poles and columns with vaseline to keep wild and rowdy revelers from climbing them (and perhaps falling).
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

POTATO CRUST QUICHE

POTATO CRUST QUICHE


Servings: 6 to 8

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 60 to 75 minutes

Crust:
3 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
1 egg

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix ingredients together and press into a greased quiche pan. Bake 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Remove crust from oven and reduce heat to 350 degrees.

Filling:
6 eggs
1½ cups milk
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup assorted vegetables, steamed or sautéed,
diced or cut into bite-size pieces
½ pound Italian sausage, browned, crumbled, and drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Whisk eggs and milk together. Add salt and pepper. Fold in other ingredients. Pour into prepared crust. Bake 40-50 minutes, until middle is firm. Recipe by Laura Swayne.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

7 Tips for Buyers

2012 is off to a promising start. Mortgage rates continue to drop and have remained under 4% for nearly two months. Home sales are strengthening and pending home sales, a measure to gauge future sales, are at their highest levels since March 2010.


Job growth has been increasing for most of 2011, with unemployment dropping to 8.4%. As more people are getting jobs, consumer confidence has also been increasing. However, underemployment continues to be a problem for a stronger recovery. The underemployment rate is 18.1%, and there are still a significant number of people working part time, who would like to have full-time work.

Even with substantial national improvements, this continues to be a "one neighborhood at a time" recovery. Payroll jobs were up in 25 states, but down in 24, demonstrating the delicate state of the U.S. economy. Global factors such as the European debt crisis are also complicating a more robust recovery. Strong guidance is needed from local and global leaders to continue this growth, as well as allow for business to maintain momentum toward building and expanding upon the opportunities that exist.

Interest rates at favorable levels and a good selection of homes provide an opportunity for buyers. Here are a few things to for buyers to keep in mind:


7 Tips for Buyers

1. Know what you can afford before you fall in love with your dream home.

2. Consider additional expenses that come with owning a home like property tax, insurance, and repairs.

3. Be flexible on the little things. It would be wonderful to find a home with everything you want, but those are hard to come by – distinguish nice-to-haves and must-haves early.

4. Have imagination and look beyond paint colors, wallpaper, or other easy and affordable things you can change.
5. Don't compromise on the big things, such as enough bedrooms to accommodate additions to the family or space for an office if you work from home.
6. Always inspect even if the surface looks great; it's important to know if anything major is wrong and what it will cost to fix.

7. Think about the future in regard to the neighborhoods, surroundings, schools, and developments.
 
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Association of Realtors
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Roman-style Chicken

Roman-style Chicken


Courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis and Food Network

Ingredients:

4 skinless chicken breast halves, with ribs
2 skinless chicken thighs, with bones
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus 1 teaspoon
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus 1 teaspoon
1/4 cup olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
3 ounces prosciutto, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup white wine
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon fresh oregano leaves
1/2 cup chicken stock
2 tablespoons capers
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

Directions:

Season the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. In a heavy, large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, cook the chicken until browned on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Keeping the same pan over medium heat, add the peppers and prosciutto and cook until the peppers have browned and the prosciutto is crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, wine, and herbs. Using a wooden spoon, scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Return the chicken to the pan, add the stock, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the chicken is cooked through, about 20 to 30 minutes.

If serving immediately, add the capers and the parsley. Stir to combine and serve. If making ahead of time, transfer the chicken and sauce to a storage container, cool, and refrigerate. The next day, reheat the chicken to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the capers and the parsley and serve.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Tips to Prepare Your Auto for Winter Travel

Tips to Prepare Your Auto for Winter Travel


(ARA) - The cold snap has arrived and the stormy winter days and dark evenings are here. It is time to prepare your car for the winter months to minimize the risk of a breakdown. Such breakdowns could be avoided by carrying out regular checks, so motorists are advised to follow these steps to minimize the risk.
"There's nothing worse than breaking down on a cold winter night, stranded on the side of the road," says Jim Fults, auto insurance leader at Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. "A few basic and regular checks can dramatically reduce the risk of getting stuck on the road.

"We urge motorists to set aside some time to carry out a series of simple checks," says Fults. "Some may seem like common sense, but you'll be surprised at how many drivers forget after the summer. For example, it is crucial to ensure all your lights are clean and working properly. Always replace any broken bulbs immediately. If you don't, you will not only find it difficult to see the road clearly, you run the risk of not being seen by other drivers."

Make sure you minimize the risk of breakdown this winter by following some tips from Fireman's Fund:
Fireman's Fund winter auto safety tips:

* Get your car checked: A professional check is worth it, for added peace of mind.
* Check your tires: Rain, snow and ice can make roads lethal. Check your tire tread and make sure the air pressure is okay.
* Light the way: Keep lights clean and make sure they are working.
* Get charged up: A dead battery is the main cause of breakdowns, so get it checked and replaced if necessary.
* Cooling system: Ensure this is checked and that the anti-freeze content meets the manufacturer requirements.
* Wipers: Check windscreen wipers and replace if they fail to clear the screen correctly.
* Fuel: Ensure you have more than enough for your journey.

Be prepared and take the following items with you:

* A fully charged cell phone
* Shovel in case of snow
* De-icer and a scraper for windows
* Blanket and warm clothing in case the worst happens
* Sturdy shoes or rubber boots
* Some snacks, such as energy bars
* Extra fuel

In addition, it is a good idea to put together an emergency winter survival kit so that you are prepared should you breakdown. Remember to include a flashlight, blanket, ice scraper and a first aid kit.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Happy Singles Awareness Day

Singles Awareness Day

When : Always February 15th

Singles Awareness Day is for those who are unattached and without a significant other. It is celebrated the day after Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day, celebrates love and romance for those currently in a relationship. However, if you are in between relationships, or without a significant other, you may feel left out. Valentine's Day can be a depressing day. So, the day after Valentine's Day is your day.

On Singles Awareness day:

Singles get together. It's a chance to meet.
Singles give each other gifts,
You can celebrate and enjoy the fact that you are unattached.

John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Happy Valentine's Day!

May love and happiness fill every corner of your home. Wishing you and your family a Happy Valentine's day. 

 Valentine's Day is a celebration of love and lovers. The roots of Valentine's Day goes back to ancient times, when people paid honor to the Roman God of Fertility. This was known as the Feast of Lupercalia, and was celebrated even then on February 14th.

It is a romantic event for lovers and a fun event for kids and family. Many a couple become engaged or wed on this day. For others it is a day to fall in love.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Fannie Mae: Outlook for Home Prices Rises Again

Fannie Mae: Outlook for Home Prices Rises Again


The consumer outlook for U.S. home prices improved again in January, extending a recent upward trend in housing market sentiment, according to mortgage market firm Fannie Mae. The survey is based upon a monthly poll of roughly 1,000 adults.
http://blogs.wsj.com/developments/2012/02/07/fannie-mae-outlook-for-home-prices-rises-again/
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

A world class oceanfront residence, "First Light"

First Light ~ Scarborough, Maine


A world class oceanfront residence, "First Light" offers unprecedented, panoramic Atlantic Ocean views and private access to seven miles of white, sandy beach. This spacious, year round retreat contrasts innovative design and interior warmth in profound harmony with its command of the cerulean sea and sky of the Saco Bay. Six expansive decks and floor to ceiling glass windows capture varying sunlight and ocean breezes, while five stone fireplaces and cherry flooring offer compelling interior comfort.

Seascaped with masterful perennial gardens laden with over 500 King Alfred daffodils, vintage wisteria, peonies, daylilies, black bamboo and Rosa rugs, "First Light" is conveniently located less than 15 minutes to Portland, ME and the International Jetport, and less than a 2 hour drive or train ride to Boston.

Tastefully understated energy and imagination pervade this uniquely elegant 7500 square foot, five bedroom, five and a half bath, four level living environment which is joined by a dramatic, naturally illuminated mahogany staircase.

Main Level:

The spacious entry foyer welcomes you with a charmingly petite stone fireplace, built in cloak nook, reception gallery, half bath and office area with custom cherry desk and shelving. The artfully decorated, open concept living room offers multiple seating areas that simultaneously enjoy the splendor of unobstructed ocean views and the alluring warmth of the floor to ceiling stone fireplace.

The gourmet cook's kitchen with slate countertops, is an epicenter for casual seaside living. It is equipped with top of the line appliances, spectacular custom tile flooring, uniquely orchestrated cabinetry and a center island wet bar and seating area. Inviting dining options prevail from the spacious fire placed dining room to the outdoor summer kitchen and grilling area on the westerly side of the kitchen. The expansive mahogany ocean side deck is irresistible! Designed to capture spectacular sunrises and sunsets and peaceful sea breezes; the open deck, covered soft seating and dining area offer an extraordinary setting for memorable gatherings with family and friends.

Upper Level

The open concept library and media room are well appointed with extensive built in cherry bookcases, a quiet computer alcove, and customized three quarter bath. Equally situated off the spacious center hallway with laundry tucked behind massive cherry pocket doors, the guest room with magnificent ocean views, enjoys direct access to the southerly oriented deck. Directly facing the ocean, also with deck access, the second bedroom boasts a private, artfully designed bath.

The Master Suite is sumptuous. Spanned by floor to ceiling glass and a private seaside deck, the sleeping quarters serenely blend panoramic ocean views with the romance of the floor to ceiling stone fireplace. The spa-like Master Bath is spectacular. Sea glass tiles offer the ultimate setting for the double pedestal sink and illuminated, soft form soaking tub. The semicircular, tile and polymer walk- in shower is a work of art offering the ultimate combination of comfort and peaceful vistas. Adjacent to the bath, the walk-in dressing room is appointed with floor to ceiling built in bureaus and extensive cherry shelving to complement the large his and her cherry closets in the sleeping area.

Beach Level

As you walk in from the private beach path, and cross the expansive beach level deck, the warmth of the oceanfront family room's stone fireplace beckons. There are two suites on either side of the warming room. Each suite is air conditioned and designed with a bedroom, office area, walk-in closet and artfully designed, private bath. Through the fieldstone arch and French garden door, the 5000 bottle, climate controlled, wine cellar offers yet another retreat. The adjacent laundry with beach access, and 4 car attached garage with radiant heat offer comfortable access to the residence.
 
John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Winterization - better late than never!

Here are 10 "must do's" to have a warm, cozy and safe winter.


1. Check attic insulation. A foot of blown-in or batt insulation (R-38) in the attic reduces heat transfer from heated interior space to the great outdoors. This is a do-it-yourself job. If your attic is not insulated, blow in or roll out 12 inches of loose or batt insulation. If the amount of insulation is less than 12 inches, simply roll out unfaced fiberglass batts over the existing insulation to create a heavier thermal blanket. This is a case where more is better. Make sure to leave soffit vents unobstructed.

2. Install or replace weatherstripping, if necessary. Check the rubber threshold gasket at the bottom of exterior doors and replace if worn or torn. Next, make sure the top and sides of the door are weatherstripped and fit tightly. If there are gaps, replace the weatherstripping.

3. Check exterior doors and windows for gaps. Modern windows are probably OK, but older windows may need some help. To reduce air leakage, casement windows might need some weatherstripping at the joint where fixed and movable panes meet. Old double-hung wood windows are notorious air leakers. Place pieces of narrow self-adhesive rubber weatherstripping on the bottom sides and at the joint where the top and bottom panes meet.

4. Check the outside of doors and windows for voids, and caulk any gaps you see.

5. Change the filter in the heater. In older furnaces, filters should be changed monthly. Change or service newer, more efficient filters according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Replace your old thermostat with a new programmable model. This allows you to regulate the heater to warm the house when you're there and to reduce the temperature when you are at work or asleep.

7. Have your heater inspected by a licensed heating and air conditioning contractor. An inspection ensures that the heater is operating safely and efficiently. In many cases an inspection can alert you as to whether the unit is at the end of its life. It's nice to have the option to replace an old heater before it quits and becomes an emergency on a cold January day.

8. Check the carbon monoxide (CO) detector. If you don't have one, get one. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that kills. An operating CO detector can prevent a tragedy. While you're at it, check the smoke detectors to ensure they're operable.

9. Clean gutters and downspouts so fallen leaves won't clog them. Make sure that downspouts discharge away from the foundation and that soil is graded away from the foundation and at least 6 inches below the siding.

10. Clean the fireplace of ashes; visually check the chimney for loose or missing mortar. Consider having the chimney professionally inspected and swept by a licensed and bonded chimney sweep.




John Hatcher
Keller Williams Realty - The Hatcher Group
6 Deering Street | Portland, Maine 04101
207-775-2121 Office | 207-775-2122 Fax
http://JohnHatcher.us
John@JohnHatcher.us

Please join us for the First Friday Artwalk Feb 3rd

John@JohnHatcher.us