2023 Central Georgia's Real Estate Connection

eal estate 

CENTRAL GEORGIA’S 

FACTORS 

TO CONSIDER 

BEFORE INVESTING 

IN REAL ESTATE 

THE BENEFITS 

OF ENERGY 

EFFICIENT HOMES 

HOME INSPECTIONS 

101 

CONNECTION 

2023 

A Special of the 

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2023 

real estate 

CONNECTION 

Table of 

Contents 

Factors to Consider 

Before Investing 

in Real Estate............................8 

Home 

Inspections 101.......................16 

Affordable ways to Make 

Homes More Appealing 

to Modern Buyers................18-19 

The Benefits of Energy 

Efficient Homes.................22-23 

Signs of Septic System 

Malfunction..............................24 

7 Things to Know 

Before Replacing 

Windows.........................26-28 

How to Pick Paint 

For Home Interiors...........30-31 

Signs of Electrical 

Problems in a Home.............32 

Lawn Watering and 

Fertilizing Techniques.........36 

Short Sale Versus 

Foreclosure...............................38 

Published By 

A D D C H P C 

1210 Washington Street 

P.O. Box 1910 

Perry, GA 31069 

478-987-1823 

www.hhjonline.com 

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR / SALES 

Lori Kovarovic 

lorik@hhjnews.com 

ADVERTISING SALES 

Nathan Mathis 

nmathis@hhjnews.com 

GRAPHIC DESIGN 

Kayley Trischan 

Page 4 Central Georgia’s Real Estate Connection 2023

Jillinda Falen 

Lifetime Multi-Million Producer 

Estate Liquidation Specialist 

Winner in the Best Real 

Estate Agent Category in 

Winner 

In 

Best Realty 

Company 

C: 478-396-4802 

O: 478-224-9980 

jillindafalen.com 

Central Georgia’s Real Estate Connection 2023 Page 7

Factors to Consider Before 

Investing in Real Estate 

The appreciation of real 

estate over time has long 

made owning a home or 

an investment property 

a sound financial strategy. 

Prospective home buyers spend 

considerable time looking for 

a property they’re hoping to 

call home. Various factors, 

including property taxes and the 

reputation of local schools, may 

be considered as homeowners 

decide where to look for a new 

home. That vetting process is 

equally important, albeit slightly 

different, when buyers are 

consider investing in properties 

they don’t intend to live in. 

Real estate can be a great way to 

diversify an investment portfolio 

and earn extra income. Before 

shopping for an investment 

property, novice investors may 

want to consider certain factors 

to determine if real estate is the 

best investment vehicle for them. 

RENTAL POTENTIAL 

AND THE LOCAL LABOR 

FORCE 

Location is a significant factor to 

consider when investing in real 

estate, but recent shifts in how 

and where people work could 

change the real estate investment 

landscape. A 2020 Gartner, 

Inc., survey of more than 300 

financial executives and leaders 

in the finance industry found 

that roughly 25 percent will 

move at least one out of every 

five of their on-site workers to 

permanently remote positions in 

the years ahead. Economists note 

that this shift to remote working 

could be among the more lasting 

trends to emerge from the 

pandemic. Before investing in 

real estate, prospective investors 

should examine local trends to 

see if more and more locals are 

working remotely, and whether 

or not that’s affecting the market 

for rentals. 

TO FLIP OR NOT TO FLIP 

Flipping properties gained 

popularity in the second decade 

of this century, but figures from 

the property database curator 

ATTOM Data Solutions indicates 

that returns on investments in 

flipped properties declined for 

the third straight year in 2020. 

Though flipping can still yield 

a strong return, investors may 

not realize the returns on flipped 

properties that they might 

have realized as recently as five 

years ago. Potential investors 

should conduct some research 

regarding real estate market 

trends, including flipping data 

where available, to make the 

most informed decision possible. 

CONDITION OF THE 

PROPERTY 

Product shortages were another 

trend to emerge during the 

pandemic, and disruptions 

to the supply chain will not 

necessarily go away anytime 

soon. In addition, the cost of 

various products associated with 

home improvements, including 

lumber, skyrocketed during 

the pandemic. The National 

Association of Home Builders 

noted that while lumber prices 

declined in 2021, the price of 

lumber packages quoted to 

builders remained high. That 

means real estate investors who 

invest in properties that will 

need work could be forced to 

pay a lot to fix these properties. 

And ongoing supply chain issues 

could extend the time it takes to 

renovate a property. Investors 

must be able to bear these costs 

and lag times to make the most 

off their real estate investments. 

Investment properties can be a 

great way to diversify a portfolio. 

Potential investors must consider 

a host of factors to determine if 

real estate is an investment they 

want to make. 


APRIL 2023 HOUSING MARKET 

Seller’s 

Market 

Housing Market Conditions 

Neutral 

Market 

Buyer’s 

Market 

Houston County, GA is a BALANCED 

MARKET in April 2023, which means 

that the supply and demand of homes 

are about the same 

How Much Do Homes in 

Houston County, GA Cost? 

Houston County is a county in 

Georgia and consists of 8 cities. 

There are 1,195 homes for sale, 

ranging from $7.5K to $5.8M. 

Median Sold Price 

$255K 

Per Square Feet 

$140 

Homes in Houston County, GA 

sold for approximately the asking 

price on average in April 2023. 

HOUSTON COUNTY, GA HOUSING MARKET 

In April 2023, the median listing home price in Houston County, GA was 

$272K, trending up 11.3% year-over-year. The median listing home price 

per square foot was $140. The median home sold price was $255K. 

HOMES FOR SALE IN HOUSTON COUNTY, GA 

There are 1,195 homes for sale in Houston County, GA, 130 of which were 

newly listed within the last week. Additionally, there are 160 rentals, with a range 

of $600 to $2.8K per month. Houston County has newer homes. Discover more 

Houston County listings for open houses, price reduced, foreclosures, recently 

sold, new home communities, and new home construction. 

AMENITIES NEAR HOUSTON COUNTY, GA 

You can fi nd dozens of grocery stores, and hundreds of cafes and 

restaurants in Houston County, GA. We will soon provide other points, such 

as parks and gyms. 

Information obtained from www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Houston-County_GA/overview 


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Whether you are looking to update the flooring in your home, renovate a 

bathroom, or paint your interior, our team of designers can help you with it 

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Wellston Decorating Center offers a variety of products and professional 

insight, and we are always there to meet our clients’ needs. We carry in stock 

a wide variety of painting and construction supplies, as well as samples of all 

of our flooring and tile options. Call and schedule and appointment to have 

one of our talented designers come to your home, give their creative insight, 

and help you lay out your space. 

Our interior designers Tara Gilpin and Megan Crosier can help you design 

every room of your home. People come from far and wide for Ken’s expertise 

in color matching paint and stain. Our dedicated and hardworking team of 

contractors and installers will work to update any part of your home. 

From adding style to your existing space with anything from pulls to lighting, 

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WHERE 

STYLE 

IS 

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Home 

Inspections 

101 

The process of buying 

a home can be unlike 

any experience 

prospective buyers have ever 

had. After finding a home 

they like and coming to an 

agreement on a sale price 

with the seller, buyers can 

expect to add many items to 

their to-do list. One of the 

first things to jot down on 

that list is scheduling a home 

inspection. 

potentially nerve-wracking 

time in their lives. 

WHAT IS A HOME 

INSPECTION? 

The American Society of 

Home Inspectors defines 

a home inspection as an 

objective visual examination 

of the physical structure 

and systems of a house. 

Inspectors will conduct 

visual examinations from the 

roof to the foundation of the 

home. Additional structures 

on the property, such as 

sheds or detached outdoor 

living areas, are not typically 

included in the examination. 

WHAT DO 

INSPECTORS 

EXAMINE? 

The ASHI notes that 

inspectors will examine the 

condition of various parts of 

the home. The heating system, 

central air conditioning 

unit, interior plumbing 

and electrical systems, roof 

(though inspectors will 

not climb onto the roof), 

attic and insulation will be 

examined. Inspectors also 

will examine walls, ceilings, 

floors, windows, doors, the 

foundation of the home, 

basement (or crawl space), 

and structural components. 

CAN A HOME FAIL 

INSPECTION? 

Homes cannot fail home 

inspections, which are just 

assessments of a home’s 

existing condition. Municipal 

inspections are separate 

inspections conducted by 

government agencies to 

verify that a property is in 

compliance with local codes. 

Home inspectors will provide 

detailed reports describing 

the condition of a home and 

indicate if any repairs are in 

order. 

Home inspections are a vital 

part of the home buying 

process. Such inspections can 

protect buyers as they’re on 

the cusp of making what will 

likely be the most significant 

investment of their lives. 

Understanding the home 

inspection process can help 

buyers during an exciting yet 

Page 14 16 Central Central Georgia’s Georgia’s Real Estate Real Estate Connection Connection 2023 2023 

DO I REALLY 

NEED A HOME 

INSPECTION? 

A home inspection is a 

vital component that can

help buyers make the most 

informed decision possible. 

Forgoing an inspection can 

leave buyers vulnerable to 

potentially costly repairs and 

issues with a home that might 

have been detected with a 

proper home inspection. 

In addition, some lenders 

insist that buyers have home 

inspections conducted 

before they will allow them to 

borrow money. 

Home inspections can protect 

home buyers as they prepare 

to make the most significant 

financial investment of their 

lives. More information about 

inspections can be found at 

www.homeinspector.org. 

Central Georgia’s Real Estate Connection 2023 Page 17 

15

Affordable ways to Make 

Homes More Appealing to 

Modern Buyers 

Home trends come and go. 

Today’s must-have items 

tend to become tomorrow’s 

outdated features in the blink of an 

eye. 

Homeowners who plan to stay in 

their current homes for years to come 

needn’t prioritize modern trends 

over personal preferences. However, 

homeowners looking to sell their 

homes can consider these favored 

features to increase their properties’ 

appeal to modern buyers. 

• Separate laundry room: 

According to the National 

Association of Home Builders’ 2021 

What Home Buyers Really Want 

report, a separate room dedicated to 

laundry was the most desired feature 

among prospective home buyers. 

Though it might not inspire the awe 

of an outdoor living room or floorto-ceiling 

windows overlooking a 

wooded backyard, a laundry room 

fills a direct and universal need. 

Perhaps that’s why 87 percent of 

buyers want a room dedicated to 

laundry in a home. 

• Exterior lighting: 

Drive through a modern suburban 

neighborhood at night and it won’t 

take long before you realize the 

popularity of exterior lighting. 

And that’s no coincidence, as 

homeowners everywhere appear 

to embrace exterior lighting. The 

NAHB report indicates that exterior 

lighting is the most sought-after 

outdoor feature. The good news for 

prospective sellers is that exterior 

lighting is an inexpensive and instant 

way to transform a property at night. 

Some solar-powered lighting along 

walkways and outside the front door 

can make a home feel more safe, 

while some uplighting of large trees 

in the backyard can produce a sight 

to behold once the sun goes down. 

• 

u 

I 

c 

o 

e 

S 

s 

p 

l 

w 

i 


• Energy-efficient 

upgrades: 

Inflation has driven up the 

cost of just about everything 

over the last year-plus, and 

energy is no exception. 

So it should come as no 

surprise that 83 percent of 

prospective home buyers are 

looking for energy-efficient 

windows and appliances 

in a home. These features 

save money and benefit the 

planet, making them a winwin 

among buyers. 

• Patio: 

Patio spaces have long been 

popular, but that popularity 

reached new heights during 

the pandemic. When forced to 

stay at home for long periods of 

time, millions of people longed 

for ways to spend more time 

outdoors without breaking 

lockdown rules. Patios provide 

outdoor living spaces, and 82 

percent of buyers indicated they 

wanted a patio with their next 

property. 

• Side-by-side sink: 

A double or side-by-side 

sink is among the more 

affordable features buyers 

are looking for. At less than 

$1,000 on average, a side-bysink 

is an affordable way to 

make a home more appealing 

to modern buyers. 

Modern buyers want a lot out 

of their homes, and sellers 

can do their best to meet 

those desires while getting 

the most money for their 

properties. 

SunMark Mortage | 311 Margie Dr, Warner Robins | 478-953-4490 

Central Georgia’s Real Estate Connection 2023 Page 19 

17

The Benefits 

of Energy- 

Efficient 

Homes 

Consumer efforts to be 

more eco-conscious 

are more and more 

noticeable. For proof of that, 

one need look no further 

than the increase in vehicle 

charging stations. Such 

stations are more accessible 

than ever and illustrate that 

consumer preference is 

increasingly leaning toward 

products that leave as small a 

carbon footprint as possible. 

Another indicator of a 

growing interest in ecofriendly 

products is the 

popularity in energy-efficient 

homes. In fact, a recent 

survey from the National 

Association of Home 

Builders found that energyefficient 

features are among 

the most sought-after “musthaves” 

among homebuyers. 

Among those surveyed, 83 

percent desired Energy Starrated 

windows, 81 percent 

wanted Energy Star-rated 

appliances and 80 percent 

preferred energy-efficient 

lighting. 

Though eco-conscious 

sensibilities compel millions 

of homeowners to make their 

homes more energy-efficient, 

that’s not the only reason 

to upgrade your home. The 

following are a handful of 

the many benefits of energyefficient 

homes. 

• Save money: Inflation was 

one of the biggest stories of 

2022, as the cost of living 

rose dramatically in the wake 

of world events. According 

to data from the U.S. Bureau 

of Labor Statistics, inflation 

led to an overall 6.5 percent 

increase in prices. But 

that increase was dwarfed 

by the cost of electricity, 

which increased by 14.3 

percent in 2022. Energyefficient 

appliances can help 

homeowners overcome that 

spike, as the U.S. Department 

of Energy indicates 

upgrading to such products 

can help homeowners reduce 

their energy costs by as much 

as 30 percent. 

• Improve resale value: As 

the NAHB survey indicates, 

modern homebuyers want 

energy-efficient homes. They’re 

also willing to pay more for 

such homes. Research from 

the mortgage lender Freddie 

Mac found that homes with 

energy-efficient ratings sold 

for nearly 3 percent more on 

average than homes without 

such ratings. 

• Live healthier: The benefits 

of energy-efficient homes 

aren’t just economic, though 

health-related benefits certainly 

produce an economic incentive 

as well. 

According to the American 

Council for an Energy- 

Page 22

Efficient Economy, insulation 

and air sealing protect 

individuals from heat waves 

and other ripple effects of 

climate change. The ACEEE 

notes that weatherization 

can improve indoor air 

quality and comfort, a 

notable benefit for asthma 

sufferers and seniors. In fact, 

the ACEEE estimates that 

integrating energy efficiency 

programs in homes could 

reduce seniors’ risk for falls 

in their homes, potentially 

saving $2 billion in fallrelated 

health care costs 

over the next decade, and 

improve asthma outcomes, 

which could reduce health 

care costs by as much as half 

a billion dollars. 

Energy-efficient products 

and practices pay numerous 

dividends, making them a 

worthy expenditure for any 

homeowners looking to 

upgrade their homes. 


SIGNS OF SEPTIC SYSTEM MALFUNCTION 

Homeowners recognize 

that their work is never 

done. Homes require 

maintenance that runs the gamut 

from daily tasks like cleaning 

kitchen countertops to more 

significant undertakings like 

replacing roofs. For many 

homeowners, keeping their 

homes running smoothly 

involves tending to septic 

systems. 

Estimates from various 

sources indicate that roughly 

one in five homes in the 

United States has a septic 

system. Homeowners who 

live in areas with regional 

sewage systems may not 

give much thought to the 

operation and maintenance 

of their wastewater and 

disposal system. But that 

responsibility typically rests 

squarely on the shoulders 

of homeowners whose 

homes have septic systems. 

Learning to maintain septic 

systems so they operate safely 

and efficiently is essential. 

Homeowners should know 

that recognizing signs of 

septic system malfunction is 

vital to avoiding potentially 

costly, messy accidents that 

can put the health of humans 

and local wildlife in jeopardy. 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN 

A SEPTIC SYSTEM 

MALFUNCTIONS? 

The Washington State 

Department of Health 

notes that a malfunctioning 

septic system is a threat to 

the health of both humans 

and animals as well as the 

environment. When a septic 

system is malfunctioning, 

untreated sewage can be 

released and end up in places 

where it shouldn’t be, such as 

groundwater, surface water 

and marine water. That’s 

true even if it’s not visible to 

the naked eye. Humans and 

animals are in danger when 

septic systems malfunction 

because untreated sewage 

contains pathogens and other 

contaminants that can make 

them sick. 

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A 

MALFUNCTIONING SEPTIC 

SYSTEM? 

The DOH of Washington 

State notes that properly 

maintained septic systems 

should provide reliable 

service for many years. 

Part of that maintenance is 

keeping an eye out for these 

signs that suggest a system is 

malfunctioning or failing: 

• Water and sewage from 

toilets, drains and sinks is 

backing up into the home 

• Bathtubs, showers, and 

sinks drain very slowly 

• Gurgling sounds are coming 

from the plumbing system 

• Standing water or damp 

spots near the septic tank or 

drain field 

• Bad odors around the septic 

tank or drain field 

Page 24 Central Georgia’s Real Estate Connection 2023 

• Bright green, spongy lush 

grass over the septic tank or 

drain field, even during dry 

weather 

• Algal blooms in nearby 

ponds or lakes 

• High levels of nitrates or 

coliform bacteria in water 

wells 

Homeowners with septic 

systems should make tending 

to those systems part of their 

routine home maintenance.

KEEPING UP 

LOCAL 

WITH YOUR 

COMMUNITY 

NEWS SPORTS 

EVENTS 

ENTERTAINMENT 

MAGAZINES 

HHJONLINE.COM 

ROBINS 

AIR FORCE 

BASE 

HOUSTON HOME JOURNAL WEDNESDAY, JAN. 25, 2023 ◆ 1B 

Arts & Entertainment 

Beasts on wheels 

hit the fairgrounds 

By WILL OLIVER 

HHJ Managing Editor 

woliver@hhjnews.com 

PERRY, Ga. — The 

Monsters are coming down 

to Perry for a day of destruction 

this weekend and their 

third-ever showing at the 

fairgrounds — and you don’t 

want to miss it. 

Come and take a gander 

at Monster Truck Wars, 

“America’s Wildest Monster 

Truck Show,” this Saturday 

at the Georgia National 

Fairgrounds’ Reaves Arena. 

If you and the family can’t 

make it to the 1-3 p.m. 

showing, head to Perry that 

night for another show from 

7-9 p.m. 

Racing. 

As far as bringing a show By BRIEANNA ROMERO this idea forward, and I 

like this to the city of Perry, 

said, ‘this sounds like a lot 

Brown said there’s been a bromero@hhjnews.com of fun,’ so we started it, and 

it has been a lot of fun,” 

demand for it. 

WARNER ROBINS, Ga. Harmon said. “We’ve really 

“We have had fan requests — Looking for something to enjoyed doing it.” 

for this over the years,” do during the week? Rigby’s And the community 

has enjoyed it as well. 

Brown added. “People had Entertainment Complex 

asked for something like may have the event you’re Promising an atmosphere 

this, and we linked up 

looking for on Jan. 25, and of enjoyment, Harmon said 

it combines decades of popular 

music with a classic 

with [Monster Truck Wars] 

the event is family-friendly 

and caters to everybody 

at one of our fair conventions. 

… We managed to 

who is looking to have fun 

game of luck. 

It’s an event Rigby’s 

meet different shows and 

during the week. Over the 

calls “Music Bingo,” and past months, the event has 

people like that out there, the premise is simple: for drawn out a crowd. 

and [Monster Truck Wars] three rounds, you’ll receive “We get repeat groups, we 

came highly recommended a bingo card with multiple get family groups, people 

from other fairgrounds and popular songs written on going out to have a good 

facilities as well.” 

them. As songs are played, time,” Harmon said. 

Monster trucks, while if you have it on your card, And while it’s certainly 

enjoyable to watch, can 

you get to mark it, with the “not your grandma’s bingo,” 

hopes of getting a “bingo.” 

be very loud. Brown said 

she will have a good time 

According to Amy 

spectators are welcome to 

as well. 

Harmon, marketing and 

bring their own earplugs 

“It’s not what grandma 

special events manager for 

and muffs, and according 

does in the basement of the 

Rigby’s, the crowd’s energy 

turns it into something ly different. … Invite your 

Catholic Church, it’s total- 

to the Monster Truck Wars 

website, there will be hearing 

protection for sale at the “It becomes a big sing-a- 

fun,” Harmon said. 

more. 

grandma, too. She’ll have 

event. 

long, because it’s popular Music Bingo isn’t the only 

The Journal caught up Brown said. 

Advance VIP tickets cost music,” Harmon explained. event Rigby’s is planning 

with Ashley Brown, commercial 

sales director with of the Titans” showdown to a special reserved seat- 

See a grudge match “Clash $30, and they include access “People know most of the for Wednesdays. They also 

music that is played.” have plans for “Trivioke,” 

the fairgrounds, for some 

Each card is also themed, 

between El Oso Loco and ing section, free access to 

a combination of trivia and 

with Harmon listing 

more details on the “topnotch, 

top-quality” monster Transformer and Reptar Kids Fun Zone. The Pit 

are playing will sing their 

Outlaw. Galactron Monster the pre-show Pit Party and 

karaoke, where those who 

decades, Disney and cartoons 

as examples. While 

truck show. 

will be battling it out in a Party will include a chance 

answers. 

you’re playing, the restaurant 

is in full swing and the February, and take place on 

“They do monster truck 

Trivioke will start in 

special feature competition. to meet the drivers and 

races, the freestyle competition,” 

Brown said. “Other part of the show, bring a pictures and even see the eat dinner or have a drink if month. Their first event is 

If your child wants to be get their autographs, take bar is open, so you can also the first Wednesday of every 

events will take place Powerwheel and reserve trucks being prepared for you would like. 

set for Feb. 1. 

during the show as well, your spot on the website. the show. 

As a midweek event, the If you can’t make Music 

such as funny cars, some Children ages 3-9 are Advance adult tickets are game only takes a few hours Bingo this week, it is a 

motocross and things like allowed to take part. $20, advance child tickets 

to play, and there are prizes 

for those who win their 

biweekly staple for Rigby’s. 

that.” 

Take a ride in an authentic 

monster truck, Sergeant 2 and under are admitted 

on the second and fourth 

are $10 and children ages 

Music Bingo will take place 

rounds. The event has been 

Some national household 

in full swing since last summer, 

stemming from an idea 

names in the monster truck Smash, for a $10 fee. Along free. Pay a $5 fee for admission 

to the Pit Party and 

Wednesday of each month 

realm will be present at the with the shows mentioned 

from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at the 

by “That Trivia Guy Steve,” 

shows, including Outlaw, 

Patio at Rigby’s, located at 

already, there will also Kid’s Fun Zone. 

who runs the event. 2001 Karl Drive in Warner 

Sheriff, Carolina Crusher, be a side act performing: Find out more by visiting “He started doing trivia Robins. 

Bear Foot and others, Quad Wars and Spring Cars monstertrucks.fun. 

with us and then he brought 

Perry Players presents: 

‘Run for your Wife’ 

LER MEISTER again. Several of the cast family, but both sides will 

members who acted under be used throughout the performance. 

trandburg’s direction have 

e stage once Finally, though the performance 

is set in the ’70s, 

the costumes chare 

sim- 

SOCIALS 

Not your 

grandma’s bingo: 

Midweek Music Bingo 

draws a crowd, continues 

through the year 

HHJ Sta f Writer 

LIVE MUSIC 

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 25 

WARNER ROBINS 

• Darin Curtis & Chin Lee: 

Barberitos - 6-9pm 

n Mic/Jam session 

MACON 

• Mark Johnson: 

Northside Cheers - 

7-10pm 

• RJ & The Starlight Band: 

VFW Post 658 - 8-11pm 

WARNER ROBINS 

• A2Z: Pub 96 - 9:30pm 

MACON 

• Matthew & Tripp: 

Parish on Cherry St. - 

12-3pm 

• All That Jazz: 

City Auditorium 

SUBSCRIPTION RATES 

6 Months (Houston County)- $52.00 

12 Months (Houston County)- $88.00 

12 Months (Houston County) Seniors- $78.00 

12 Months (Out of County or State)- $98.00 

ADD ONLINE FOR ONLY $ 10!!! 

CALL 478-987-1823 

TO SUBSCRIBE TODAY!


7 Things 

to Know 

Before Replacing 

Windows 

The decision to replace windows often comes down 

to aesthetics and necessity. Drafty windows can 

reduce energy efficiency in a home, requiring HVAC 

systems to work harder to keep interiors comfortable. The 

harder the HVAC must work, the more homeowners will 

pay in energy costs. 

Old windows also may be points of entry for water and 

insects. Despite the importance of windows, Money 

magazine advises that new windows make up only a fraction 

of the home’s total exterior “envelope,” resulting in only 

about 5 to 15 percent of total energy savings. 

But there are still plenty of reasons to invest in new windows. 

1. Vinyl or aluminum may be best. Lumber is farmed 

rather quickly today and solid wood products may not 

stand up to elements as well as wood used a half-century 

ago. To avoid rot, vinyl windows often are an affordable and 

durable choice. Homeowners also have the option of wood 

windows with aluminum cladding, which are long-lasting. 

2. Moisture problems indicate windows need to be replaced. 

Condensation that shows up as fogging between doublepane 

windows or on the inside of windows indicates that 

the windows are starting to fail. If installing a vapor barrier 

in the basement or crawl space, ventilating properly when 

showering or cooking, or using a dehumidifier indoors 

does not remedy the situation, it might be time to replace 

windows. 

3. Windows add curb appeal. Beyond functionality, 

replacement windows immediately update the look 

of the home and can improve curb appeal since they 

are one of the most prominent features on the exterior of a 

home. If a house needs an update, replacing windows and 

can be a quick and affordable update. 


4. Consider other 

energy-efficient 

upgrades. Sometimes 

older windows can be 

salvaged, especially if they 

are not damaged and only 

moderately drafty. Replacing 

panes, sash cords, weather 

stripping, and even glazing 

may be less expensive than 

replacing a window. Plus, 

older homes with attractive 

windows complement one 

another. To keep energy bills 

down, think about adding 

insulation to the attic and 

basement — which is a good 

idea even if you are replacing 

windows. 

It’s important to match the 

look of the original windows, 

including window material 

and the divided light pattern 

(the number of panes in each 

window) with the original 

windows. 

6. Think about 

soundproofing, too. 

When upgrading 

windows, also think about 

how certain windows can 

cancel out noises and make 

homes more soundproof. 

Some windows can help 

reduce outdoor distractions 

like leaf blowers or lawn 

mowers. 

contractors to find the best 

professionals for the job. 

5. The wrong windows 7. Proper installation 

can adversely affect is key to longevity. 

home value. The Replacement windows 

National Association of are only as good as their 

Realtors says homeowners installation in many cases. 

get about 73 percent of Poor installation and orders 

their replacement window of standard rather than 

investment back when they 

custom sized windows 

could result in poor fitting 

resell a home. But choosing 

and seals. Homeowners 

the wrong windows might should carefully vet and 

lower the value of the home. review window replacement 


HOW TO PICK PAINT 

Many components combine to define a home’s interior. Some homeowners may be partial 

to certain styles, such as ultra modern or farmhouse, while others may opt for a more 

traditional look that cannot necessarily be categorized as one style or another. Though 

many homeowners may spend considerable time and devote a lot of energy to making their 

home embody a certain style, those who aren’t willing to commit to a particular look can lean 

on one component to make a stylish statement all their own: paint. 

Color can be a part of every homeowner’s design arsenal. Bold colors can be used to create 

a stunning accent wall, while homes with open concepts often utilize color to define rooms. 

Homeowners who want to revitalize their home interiors can do so with paint, and this approach 

doesn’t require homeowners to commit to a whole new design style. 

Though paint may seem simple to novices, homeowners who have painted home interiors in 

the past recognize how complicated the process of picking paint can be. Paint retailers have a 

seemingly endless swatch of paint colors to choose from, and before long homeowners heads may 

be spinning as they try to narrow down their options. The following tips can help homeowners 

pick the perfect paint for their home interiors. 

TAKE STOCK, AND PHOTOGRAPHS, OF YOUR CURRENT FURNISHINGS. 

Many interior designers rely on a simple technique when recommending color schemes to their clients. Choose a standout 

color from existing furnishings, such as the dominant color from a patterned decorative pillow or piece of furniture, and then 

look for the same shade to paint the walls. A photograph of the item can be handy when visiting the paint store. 

LIGHTEN COLORS AS YOU GO UP. 

The home renovation and design experts at HGTV recommend picking darker color values for the floor, medium color values 

for the walls and light values for the ceiling. This approach mimics the look of the great outdoors, where the ground tends to 

be darker than the trees, and the trees are darker than the blue sky. 


FOR HOME INTERIORS 

UTILIZE PAINT TO CREATE THE VIBE YOU WANT. 

The home renovation experts at This Old House note that colors evoke an emotional response. Cool colors like blue and green 

give off a relaxing vibe, which makes them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. Red is an intense color that can up the energy 

ante in any room, which can make it an option for homeowners who want to spark debate around their dinner tables. 

GIVE PERSONAL PREFERENCE ITS PLACE AT THE TABLE. 

Though interior designers may have years of experience picking paint colors for a home and researchers may have determined 

how certain colors can be utilized to create a desired ambiance in a given room, ultimately homeowners are the ones who will 

be living in the home. So it’s important that homeowners pick colors they like for their home interiors. 

Paint is an inexpensive way to transform a room. Homeowners can rely on a combination of color strategies and their personal 

preferences as they try to decide which colors they want on their interior walls. 


Signs of Electrical Problems in a Home 

Homeowners know 

that all sorts of issues 

can affect a home. 

Issues can run the gamut 

from the merely annoying to 

the unsafe. Electrical issues 

fall into the latter category, 

posing a significant safety 

hazard if left unchecked. 

According to the home safety 

experts at UL (formerly 

known as Underwriters 

Laboratories), learning to 

recognize warning signs 

of electrical wiring issues 

can greatly lower the risk of 

house fires. House fires pose 

a significant threat, as the 

Electrical Safety Foundation 

International notes that 

electrical malfunctions cause 

more than 50,000 house fires 

each year. UL indicates that 

the majority of those house 

fires can be prevented, and 

learning to recognize signs 

of a electrical problems in a 

home is a key component of 

home fire prevention. 

• Dimming or flickering 

lights: The UL notes that 

light fixtures do not typically 

draw a substantial amount 

of power, so dimming or 

flickering lights is not often 

indicative of an issue with a 

fixture. Dimming or flickering 

lights could indicate that the 

circuit the lights are on is 

overburdened, most likely 

by large appliances sharing 

the circuit with the lights. If 

dimming and flickering lights 

are a problem, homeowners 

can speak to an electrician 

about moving the fixtures to 

another circuit or installing 

a new line specifically for 

major appliances. 

• Odors: Odor emanating 

from an outlet, fuse box or 

breaker panel should be 

reported to an electrician 

immediately. The odor, which 

some homeowners indicate 

smells like fish, could be 

a result of an overheated 

circuit. Odor coming from 

an outlet, fuse box or breaker 

panel could indicate a 

significant electrical issue, 

so homeowners should 

not hesitate to report this 

problem to an electrician. 

Odors can sometimes travel 

through HVAC systems 

as well, so homeowners 

should take note and call 

an electrician even if their 

outlets do not smell. 

• Hot outlets/switch 

plates: Outlets and/or 

switch plates that are hot 

to the touch are another 

indicator of an electrical 

issue. UL notes that outlets 

that become hot even when 

nothing is plugged into them 

could be wired incorrectly. In 

such instances, an electrician 

will need to fix the issue, and 

in the meantime it may be 

best for homeowners to flip 

the breaker or remove the 

fuse for the outlet. 

• Frequently blown fuses 

or tripped breakers: 

According to UL, circuit 

breakers and fuses have 

a built-in fail-safe that 

is designed to prevent 

overloading. Sometimes a 

tripped breaker is a result 

of an aging appliance. One 

way to detect that is to plug 

in the product to more than 

one outlet in the house. If 

each breaker trips, then the 

appliance is likely to blame. 

However, if using the same 

outlet continues to trip the 

breaker regardless of what’s 

plugged into it, then the 

circuit requires the attention 

of an electrician. 

Electrical issues increase 

the risk for home fires. 

Fortunately, such issues are 

generally preventable and 

often easily remedied by a 

qualified electrician.

Active Adult Resort Community in Perry 

(Houston County) 

Contact an agent at 

nuttjr@sowega.net 

229-322-8741 

Or visit our web page at 

www.SouthernDynamicRealty.com 

Jane McCullough, Broker 

Cara Cooper, Agent 

Looking for a reliable real estate agency in Central, Georgia? Look no further than Southern Dynamic Realty! Our team of experienced agents 

provides exceptional service and finding the perfect property for our clients. Whether you are buying or selling a home, we have the expertise 

and local knowledge to guide you through the process with ease. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you achieve 

your real estate goals! 

Insuring your 

home helps 

protect your 

future. 

SERVING ALL OF CENTRAL GEORGIA! 

CALL ME TODAY! 478-333-3377 

I’ll show you how homeowners policy protect you. 

“Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.” 

Kevin Barry 


First, we make the best. Then, we make it better. Hustler® Turf 

introduced the world’s first zero-turn mower in 1964. Since then, 

Hustler® has become one of the leading turf care brands in the world, 

fueled by innovation. Across the globe, the Hustler® brand signifies 

quality, strength, performance, and high innovative standards. That’s 

how it began more than 50 years ago, and is still the Hustler® way. 

629 General Courtney Hodges Blvd, 

Perry, GA 

478-224-8665 • arrowheadtec.com 


629 General Courtney Hodges Blvd, Perry • 478-224-8665 • arrowheadtec.com 

Seven Steps to Get Your Mower Ready for Spring 

When springtime arrives and those fi rst blades of grass appear, we know 

it’s tempting to head outside, fi re up your lawn mower and cut them down, 

but you’ll need to do a little prep work fi rst. A mower that’s been sitting in 

storage all winter requires some much-needed attention before getting 

back on the turf. Follow our seven-step checklist below to get your mower 

properly maintained and ready for the season. 

you didn’t drain the oil before storing your mower, drain and replace it 

now. Start with fresh oil and stay current on regular oil-change intervals. 

If you’re not sure how often it should be changed, refer to your owner’s 

manual for guidance. 

Check the Filter Trifecta – Air, Oil, and Fuel Filters 

If you own a Hustler Turf zero-turn lawn mower, you’ll appreciate our fl ipup 

seat pan, removable fl oor pan, and toolless removable pulley covers 

that make quick work of cleaning and pre-season maintenance. 

Do a Walk-Around 

Like a pilot getting ready to take off into the blue skies, you need to walk 

around your mower and check the condition. Depending on how long it 

sat idle, you want to make sure there are no cracks, leaks, or corrosion 

on battery terminals. And don’t forget to check wires for critter-bites. 

Clean It Up 

Grab the air hose and blow off any dirt, dust, or debris that may have 

taken up residence on your mower in the off-season. If it’s caked on, you 

may need to use a scraper and a little elbow grease but it’s worth it. This 

is especially important under the mower deck where grass clippings can 

get stuck causing rust and blockage of the discharge chute. 

Change the Spark Plug 

Treating your mower to a new spark plug each year is an economical way 

to ensure your mower will start up quickly each mowing season. 

Check the Oil 

The engine of your mower is a critical component that requires 

maintenance before the season begins and monitoring throughout. If 

Filters are made to do one thing – keep debris and foreign particles out 

of your critical mower components including the engine and carburetor. 

Check each of these items and replace if necessary. Again, if you didn’t 

do it before you stored your machine for the winter, change the fi lter now 

and set yourself up for lawncare success. 

Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades 

If you want to get an even cut and have the straightest stripes on the 

block, it all starts with the shape of your blades. Inspect mower blades 

before the new season begins. If you see bent blades, chips, dents, or 

other imperfections that would cause uneven cutting, it’s time to replace. 

Not sure where to buy mower blades for your zero-turn mower - call your 

local Hustler Turf dealer. 

Add Fresh Fuel 

Gasoline can go bad in as little as 30 days and running a lawn mower 

with old gas can cause sputtering, hesitation, and stalling. If gas has been 

sitting in your mower all winter - drain, dispose of it properly, and fi ll up 

with a fresh tank. 

When In Doubt – Call A Dealer 

If you’re not comfortable handling your own maintenance or just don’t 

have the time, you can always reach out to your nearest outdoor power 

equipment dealer.They’ll have the knowledge and expertise to get your 

mower ready for the long hot season ahead. 


Lawn watering and 

fertilizing techniques 

Alush, green lawn is 

a sight to behold. 

Many variables are 

involved in growing and 

maintaining grass, and water 

and fertilizer are among the 

most important components. 

Knowing how much water 

and fertilizer to apply and 

when to apply it can make 

a big difference in the 

appearance and health of a 

lawn. That’s because a wellfed 

and watered lawn will 

develop a better root system, 

which makes the lawn less 

vulnerable to stressors like 

drought, mowing, foot traffic, 

and heat, according to the 

Scotts® company. 

FERTILIZE 

There is no magic formula 

governing when to fertilize 

a lawn. The type of grass and 

how well-established a lawn is 

must be considered. Experts 

suggest having the soil tested 

to determine its pH levels and 

if any nutrients are lacking. A 

fertilizing schedule can then 

be developed after testing. 

Keep in mind that 

overfeeding a lawn will not 

make it grow any better and 

actually can damage the turf. 

Several small applications of 

fertilizer during the lawn’s 

most active growing period 

may be helpful, advises the 

home improvement resource 

Tools Around the House. 

An annual application (late 

spring for warm-season grass 

or fall for cool-season grass) 

may be all that’s needed. 

Certain fertilizers need to 

be applied and watered in. 

Others may be combined 

with weed-control products 

and must be set on top of 

damp grass. Read packaging 

to determine the right 

application. 

WATER 

The right watering schedule 

and techniques can help 

a lawn thrive. Scotts® says 

adjusting for climate and 

nature can help grass to grow 

strongly. A lawn that has a 

grayish cast or appears dull 

green is telling an owner 

that it needs water. Another 

test is to step on the lawn. If 

footprints disappear quickly, 

the grass blades have enough 

moisture to spring back. 

Water the lawn in the 

morning before 10 a.m. when 

it’s cooler and the winds tend 

to be calm so that the water 

can soak in. For those who 

must water at night, do so 

in early evening so that the 

water can dry before nightfall 

and will not contribute to 

disease. 

Scotts® says to water an 

established lawn until the top 

six to eight inches of soil is 

wet. Most lawns need one to 

1.5 inches of water per week 

from rain or a hose to soak 

the soil that deeply. 

Newly established lawns may 

require more water to keep 

the soil moist but not soggy. 

Visit a lawn care center 

for more information on 

watering the type of lawn for 

your area or visit www.scotts. 

com for additional tips. 


LOCALLY OWNED 

HARDWARE | NURSERY 

GARDEN CENTER | ANIMALS 

602 GA-247, Bonaire, GA | 478-923-9707 

At Houston Hardware & Garden Center LLC, we provide that 

charming “small town” feel when you’re looking for quick 

hardware items. No need to bother with any big retailers. 

We’re conveniently located right on Hwy 247 South in 

Bonaire, GA. We have been happily serving the Bonaire and 

surrounding community for over 30 years. Our store has been 

family owned and operated since 1982. We offer a “price 

match promise,” as we’ll gladly match anyone’s prices for the 

same items. We believe in supporting local small businesses. 

We’re here to help and serve you! 


Short Sale Versus Foreclosure 

Shopping for real 

estate may require 

prospective buyers 

to learn a whole new 

language. Buyers may come 

across certain terms they 

don’t understand. Among 

the more common terms that 

first-time buyers may not 

fully understand are “short 

sale” and “foreclosure.” 

According to Realtor.com, 

short sales and foreclosure 

auctions are situations that 

occur when homeowners 

fall behind on payments 

and can no longer afford to 

live in a home. A short sale 

happens when a homeowner 

owes more on the mortgage 

balance than the market 

value of the property when 

the owner needs to sell. The 

homeowner can ask the 

mortgage lender to accept a 

lesser amount than the total 

mortgage owed — making 

the homeowner/seller “short” 

on paying the lender back. 

foreclosures are not without 

challenges. 

The real estate experts at 

Zillow say that foreclosures 

and short sales involve 

more layers than traditional 

transactions. Zillow offers 

that bank lenders historically 

can be slow at giving approval 

for mortgages to purchase 

short sale properties or even 

agreeing on an amount for 

the sale. As a result, buyers 

may miss out on other 

opportunities while waiting 

for short sales to move along. 

Foreclosures carry their 

own hurdles. Buyers may 

not get a chance to even 

see a foreclosure property, 

nor be eligible to have it 

inspected, as foreclosed 

homes are typically sold 

“as-is” and at auction. The 

real estate agency Re/Max 

says buying a foreclosure 

typically is faster than buying 

a short sale, and an investor 

can buy a foreclosed home 

for below market value. 

But foreclosures cannot be 

contingent on the sale of 

another home, so a buyer 

must have funds in place and 

be ready to move quickly. 

Short sales are often initiated 

by homeowners looking to 

avoid foreclosure. As a result, 

short sale properties may 

be in decent condition. This 

may not be the case with a 

foreclosure. The American 

Society of Home Inspectors 

says foreclosed homes may 

have been neglected by 

having utilities turned off 

and no maintenance done 

on the home. Other homes 

may have been purposefully 

vandalized by the former 

owner or by squatters. 

Short sales and foreclosure 

properties are options for 

buyers who want to get the 

best price possible on a home 

and are willing to take some 

risks in their pursuits. 

A foreclosure is a legal process 

that occurs when a borrower 

cannot make mortgage loan 

payments for a significant 

period of time. If the debt is 

not recouped, lenders will 

step in and take ownership of 

the property, putting it up for 

sale in a foreclosure auction. 

While these situations can 

be troublesome for the 

homeowner facing financial 

peril, distressed properties 

can be advantageous for 

buyers who oftentimes can 

buy homes at steep discounts. 

However, short sales and

LIST YOUR HOME AND PROPERTY 

FOR SALE WITH US 

44 Years of Middle Georgia Real Estate 

Transaction Experience 

We get top dollar for your 

property and our agents are the 

absolute Best in the Business. 

Call us for completely free 

answers to your questions... 

We are easy to deal with and 

we will always protect your 

best interest. 

478-954-5665 

BILL WALDORF 

Senior Broker, Realtor 

billwaldorf3@yahoo.com 

RPI 

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

2023 Central Georgia's Real Estate Connection

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