The Onsite Wastewater Systems Assistance Program (OSWAP) offers low-interest loans through participating lenders to rural Iowans for replacement of inadequate or failing septic systems. The program was created to help replace outdated septic systems that still dump untreated wastewater from household septic tanks to open ditches or underground tile lines that flow directly to streams, [...]

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By Jeanne Huber, Houselogic.com Even if you live in an older home, there’s no reason you need to shiver through the winter or roast in the summer. If your house doesn’t have enough insulation—common in homes built before 1980, when energy awareness began to take hold—bringing it up to current standards will make it more [...]

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By Jane Hodges – Houselogic.com With roughly 34 million telecommuting adults in America—a number slated to double by 2016, according to Forrester Research—adjustments to your home office power consumption, lighting, and heating and cooling can impact the environment and your wallet—up to about $200 per year in energy costs. Down-shift your power consumption Home office [...]

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Many people have questions regarding the federal health care reform bill and how it pertains to home sales and taxation.  Check these 17 FAQs on the New Medicare Tax on “Unearned” Net Investment Income, developed by the National Association of REALTORS®. New Medicare Tax on “Unearned” Net Investment Income   Q-1: Who will be subject [...]

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Iowa’s time of transfer septic system inspection law (SF261) was passed by the Iowa legislature in April of 2008 and took effect July 1, 2009. The new law requires that most homes/buildings served by a septic system have that septic system inspected prior to the sale or deed transfer for the home/building. If you are [...]

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As we find ourselves in the midst of severe weather season here in Iowa, it’s a good time for homeowners to develop and /or review their emergency plans with their families. It’s important to involve all members of the family in the discussion and development of your family’s emergency plan. Adjust your plan as needed [...]

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By Gwen Moran, Houselogic.com Damage caused by driving rain is usually covered under standard homeowners insurance policies. Once the precipitation hits the ground, however, all bets may be off. Homeowners insurance typically excludes damage resulting from “seeping water, snow melt, rising bodies of water like lakes or rivers, and any type of rising ground water,” [...]

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By Dave Toht, Houselogic.com Substantial snowmelt and heavy spring rains signal the onset of summer’s heat and humidity in the Midwest—extreme conditions that put stress on the exterior of a house and other features, such as driveways and fences. Routine outdoor maintenance helps ensure that your property withstands nature’s challenges while preserving the value of [...]

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April is Fair Housing Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the landmark Fair Housing Act, which was created in 1968 and amended in 1988. April 2010 is the 42nd anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, which declared a national policy of fair housing throughout the United States. The law prohibits housing discrimination on the [...]

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As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market, Congress has passed new legislation that: Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until Apr. 30, 2010. Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November [...]

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