12 Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

1. Get at least 3 written estimates.

2. Check references. If possible, view earlier jobs the contractor completed.

3. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau for complaints.

4. Be sure the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled.

5. Make as small of a down payment as possible so you won't lose a lot if the contractor fails to complete the job.

6. Be sure that the contractor has the necessary permits, licenses, and insurance.

7. Check that the contract states when the work will be completed and what recourse you have if it isn't. Also, remember that in many instances you can cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.

8. Ask if the contractor's workers will do the entire job or whether subcontractors will be involved too.

9. Get the contractor to indemnify you if work does not meet any local building codes or regulations.

10. Be sure that the contract specifies the contractor will clean up after the job and be responsible for any damage. In addition, make sure any potential demo work is also included.

11. Guarantee that the materials that will be used meet your specifications.

12. NEVER make the final payment until you're satisfied with the work, it's completely finished, and every little detail is wrapped up.

336 Navigator Drive: A Highland Horizon Masterpiece

336 Navigator Dr. Austin, TX 78717

Absolutely gorgeous STUNNER in MEGA-Desirable Highland Horizon! This is the pinnacle of luxury! SPACIOUS 4,477 sqft!! 3 car garage! TOP NOTCH UPGRADES incl pro-garden with gate & arbor entrance, INSANE COOL, MODERN DECK w/ PERGOLA/BENCH SURROUND & built in lighting, & plantation shutters! GOURMET KITCHEN W/ THREE ovens, 36" GE Monogram Stove, HUGE island, & beautiful rich, dark wood cabinetry! Mother-in-law plan w/full bath. 2 beds down 3 up! GAME ROOM & MEDIA ROOM! Wood, Enlarged Tile, Soaring Ceilings! NEW, DESIRABLE Elsa England Elementary School! Great schools all-around! Why be 1 of 2,000 in Ranch at Brushy Creek and Avery Ranch? Be exclusive in Highland Horizon! Don't spend every day in traffic on Parmer, get direct access home on 45 toll road to Highland Horizon!! YOU CANNOT BUILD THIS HOME FOR A LOWER PRICE IN HIGHLAND HORIZON!
WWW.336Navigator.COM

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$136,950 Amazing stunner in Hutto for a value price! Wood laminate throughout, no carpet! Never vacuum stairs again! Expansive patios! Upgraded Appliances! Granite sink! Zero Down USDA Loan Eligible! Click for more Info!

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10 Tips to Keep Your Utility Bills Low in the Summer!

1. Keep your thermostat as high as you comfortably can. The smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the less energy you are using.

2. Do not set your thermostat lower than normal when turning it on; it will not cool your house any faster, but it will run up your cooling bill.

3. Make good use of ceiling fans; they allow you to raise the thermostat up to 4 degrees while maintaining the same cool comfort.

4. Keep lamps and TVs away from your AC thermostat. The heat created by these appliances will mislead thermostat sensors and force your cooling system to run longer than necessary.

5. Be sure that registers are cleared of dust regularly. Any buildup can cause it to run inefficiently.

6. Avoid using your oven as much as possible during the summer months - grill outdoors or use the stove and microwave as alternatives.

7. Efficient lighting will keep your house cooler. Up to 90% of the electricity that powers incandescent lights is turned into unwanted heat in your home.

8. Make sure your water heater is set to warm (120 degrees) instead of hot. This will avoid scalding and save on energy bills.

9. During times of the day when the sun is hottest, pull window treatments closed to block out warm rays and your AC unit won't have to work as hard.

10. Have a professional come out to inspect your AC unit before you need it, and maintain it by replacing intake filters every month and pouring a 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of bleach mixture down the condensate line to keep it flowing smooth.