After this past weekend's temperature dropping under 10°,  I think it's safe to say that most people's heat was blasting. Unfortunately, with the warm comfort comes higher heating costs. Check out these tips and tricks to help lower these costs:

1. Weather Stripping

Worn weather stripping can be very detrimental in the cold weather. If you notice worn or torn weather stripping around your windows or doors, it may be a good idea to begin repairing it, or even replacing it if necessary. A home's heat loss occurs mostly around doors and windows, prompting homeowners to pump up the heat. Damage to the weather stripping can allow cool air, drafts, to flow freely into your home. This can also mean that your warm air is slipping out, making your furnace work harder causing it to use up even more energy to keep your house warm.

2. Lock Doors and Windows

This may seem like an odd thing to do when you're thinking about heating costs, but believe it or not this can help to lock in the warmth. When you lock your doors and windows you'll notice that they become tighter and move closer to the weather stripping, allowing the heat to stay in and keeping the cold air out.

3. Keep Things Clean and Clear

Double check that nothing is blocking the registers. When these heating ducts are covered it can block the flow of heat and keep it hidden under furniture, keeping it from circulating throughout the room.

4. Furnace Filters

If you notice your furnace having a hard time keeping the room warm, check the furnace filters. Make sure to clean or replace these as necessary. Dirty filters can restrict the air flow and will increase the use of energy within your home.

5. BLANKETS!!

One really simple way to reduce heating costs would be to use more blankets, especially at night. Add more blankets to your bed and lower the heat!

According to the Consumer Energy Center, for every  degree you lower your heat in the 60° to 70° range, you can save up to 5% on overall heating costs. For more information on how to save winter time cost and energy, click here.

Every renter usually has something different that's at the top of their "want" list for their future home. Here is a list of general things most renters are commonly looking for:

Safety

One of the number one things people look for in a new place to live is safety. Everyone wants to feel safe in their home and know that the area in which they are living is an overall safe place.

Location

There are many different things that tie into location, safety being one of those things. But other location needs could consist of good schools, public transportation systems, restaurants, grocery stores, etc.

Amenities

This could be anything including, but not limited to, ceiling fans, dishwashers, washer and dryers in the unit or on the property.

Quiet

No one wants to deal with loud neighbors, especially in an apartment complex or condo association. This is especially important for those who have to be up early for work, school, or anything else.

Cleanliness

Cleanliness is up there with safety when it comes to important things renters are looking for. No one is asking for the property to be perfect, but make sure that the property is well maintained and not littered with trash or bugs. Keep the property how you would want it if you lived there.

Okay, you’ve made the decision to rent out your property…but now what? Whether it’s an apartment or a house, there are multiple things you need to do before the tenant moves in. Here are 9 tips and tricks to help guide you through this process:

1. Change your locks

Changing your locks is important for both your safety and your tenant’s safety. If you had previous tenants, you don’t want them to have access to the newly rented property.

2. Inspect your home

Inspect and repair major problems that you see around your property. Address problem areas including roof leaks, clogged gutters, driveway cracks, faucet leaks, electrical issues, etc.

3. Ensure safety!

Make sure everything is up to code. Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors – replace batteries with new ones.

Supply fire extinguishers and let the tenants know where they are located.

4. Keep things clean

Have the apartment or house the way you expect the tenants to leave it at the end of their lease. Make sure the bathroom(s) and kitchen are scrubbed and all cabinets are empty. Check all closets to make sure nothing has been left behind.

If there are carpets, hire a carpet cleaner (or rent one and do it yourself). If you have hardwood floors, make sure there are no damages that can impact the tenant.

Dust! No one likes coming into a new home with cobwebs everywhere!

5. If your property is furnished…

Evaluate your furnishings. Check the condition they are in prior to your tenant’s arrival (let them know what your expectations are when it comes to keeping your furnishings in good condition).

6. Contact information

Make a list with all of your contact information (phone numbers and email) and what hours you can be reached. This way if anything comes up or there is an emergency your tenant can easily contact you. Make sure to get your tenants contact information as well.

7. Meet your tenant

A face-to-face meeting with your tenant is very important. It helps to create a trusting relationship – after all you trust them to live in your home.

During this meeting, go over what you expect of them during their tenancy and allow them to explain to you what their expectations are.

8. That being said, who is responsible for what?

Another important thing to discuss is responsibilities. Make sure you layout the guidelines on who will be responsible for things including lawn care and regular maintenance.

9. And finally, ask yourself when your property was built

This may seem silly but the truth of the matter is, it’s important. Properties that were built before 1978 may contain lead paint. Determine whether your property does or not. If so, this must be disclosed to the prospective tenants BEFORE they move in. Lead from paint, dust, and soil can be hazardous if not managed properly. For more information on this you can visit: http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/library/enforcement/pyf_eng.pdf

Over the years we can't help but collect things. Whether it is furniture, clothes, accessories, or knick-knacks. It is because of our natural habit of collection that moving can become a hassle. This is the best time to start downsizing. The only problem, we never know what it is that we should get rid of! Here are a few tips to help:

1. Measure

Measure your new space. See how much you have to work with. This is especially important when you're trying to figure out what furniture you do and do not need. Picture the new layout in your head. Is there room for everything? If not, consider selling the piece. Even better, consider donating the piece.

2. Prioritize

While looking through all of your belongings the best thing that you can do is prioritize. See what it is that you really need versus the things that you THINK you need. If you have two couches but don't have use for one of them, decide which one is really worth taking.

3. Think

When it comes time to attacking your closet--make sure you're mentally ready--take time into consideration. Ask yourself, "When was the last time I wore this?". If you can't remember it's probably safe to say that this is another thing that can be sold or donated. Most likely there are a lot of clothes, or shoes, or pieces of costume jewelry that you don't wear and, no matter how hard you try and convince yourself, won't ever wear.