Greening Your Home can Earn You a Tax Credit
(ARA) - Spring is here, summer's just around the corner and it's time to break out of that winter funk. With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. Americans spent $170.8 billion on home improvement projects in fourth quarter 2008, exceeding new home investment, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Today's savvy homeowners often opt for remodeling projects to improve the enjoyment and usability of their living spaces. As household budgets tighten, consumers are cutting back on going out in favor of entertaining at home. And that means renovations like kitchen and bath makeovers or finishing basements to add living space are priorities on many "to do" lists. From enjoying more home-cooked meals to movie nights and "staycations," the family room may be the most popular hangout this year.
When it comes to remodeling, the desire to add more natural light and cutting the time and cost of maintaining a home remain high priorities. Although some consumers have less "green" to spend today, green remodeling is growing in popularity and is less taxing thanks to a growing number of environmentally-friendly options.
Just in time for home improvement projects, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act includes qualifying tax credits for energy-saving home improvements like high-efficiency windows and doors, heating and cooling systems, water heaters and insulation.
Under the economic stimulus plan, American homeowners can claim a tax credit up to 30 percent of the cost of qualifying energy-efficient replacement windows and doors, not exceeding $1,500 for units installed in 2009 or 2010.
So where do you start? Pella Designer Series windows and patio doors which feature triple-pane glass are rated No. 1 for energy efficiency among top national brands. New, energy-efficient ENERGY STAR-qualified windows like wood or vinyl options from Pella keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter to help cut utility costs while adding style and comfort.
Now's the time to tackle a home improvement project to add to the enjoyment of your home. Window replacement helps save energy and creates a better view of your world. Visit your local Pella Window & Door Showroom for ideas, log on to www.pella.com to schedule an in-home consultation or call (888) 84-PELLA (888-847-3552) for details on how to get started.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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