Your First Homeowner Roadmap - Simplifying the Complex
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the essential steps for first-time homeowners. They cover the importance of understanding how to operate and maintain a home, the significance of regular maintenance, and how to prioritize home projects based on inspections. The conversation also delves into budgeting for homeownership, including the total cost of ownership and the balance between DIY projects and hiring professionals. The hosts emphasize the need for preparation and awareness to navigate the complexities of...
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First-Time Homebuyers: The 4 Phases to Get it Right
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their personal experiences as first-time homeowners and provide valuable insights into the home buying process. They discuss the importance of financial readiness, the significance of choosing the right location, and the criteria for selecting a home. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper planning and preparation to navigate the complexities of buying a home, including understanding financing options and the negotiation process with real estate agents. Takeaways Home buying...
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What Every Homeowner Should Know About Shutoffs and Safety
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner Podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss essential knowledge every homeowner should have regarding their home's utilities. They emphasize the importance of understanding how to manage water, electricity, and gas systems to prevent damage and ensure safety. The conversation covers practical tips on locating shutoff valves, the significance of sump pumps, and the necessity of documenting procedures for emergencies. The hosts aim to empower homeowners with the knowledge to protect their homes and minimize risks...
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Homeowner Survival Guide: Claims, Contractors & Chaos
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode, Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their harrowing experience with a water damage emergency in their home. They recount the chaotic moments when they were awakened by screaming smoke detectors, leading to the discovery of water pouring from their light fixtures. The couple discusses the immediate actions they took, including shutting off the water, documenting the damage, and navigating the insurance claims process. They emphasize the importance of preparation, teamwork, and understanding the intricacies of home insurance and repair processes. Throughout...
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From Honey-Do to Honey-Done - Smarter Home Maintenance
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss essential home maintenance tasks that homeowners often overlook. They emphasize the importance of understanding different categories of maintenance, including preventative and inspection-oriented tasks. The conversation covers various inspection tasks, such as checking roofs and foundations, and highlights the significance of using technology for home inspections. The hosts also share practical maintenance tips for appliances, cleaning routines, and safety considerations, ultimately...
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Navigating Home Complexity with HomeZada
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the complexities of homeownership and how HomeZada serves as a comprehensive platform to manage various aspects of home management. They explore the interconnectedness of home inventory, maintenance, financial insights, and the limitations of using separate apps. The conversation also highlights the role of AI in providing tailored advice for homeowners and the concept of a digital twin for better home management. Takeaways The house is a complex entity made up of various...
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The Smart Way to Inventory Your Home—Photos, Videos & AI
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the importance of taking a home inventory and provide practical tips on how to get started. They emphasize the significance of documenting valuable items through photographs and videos, and how using tools like HomeZada can streamline the process. The conversation covers various strategies for inventorying items, including focusing on high-value possessions, exploring hidden areas of the home, and utilizing AI technology for efficient documentation. The hosts also share real-life...
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How to Be a Smarter Multi-Homeowner
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the complexities of managing multiple homes, including rental properties, vacation homes, and family residences. They emphasize the importance of home maintenance, inventory management, and understanding the financial implications of owning multiple properties. The conversation also highlights the impact of weather on home maintenance and the necessity of having a clear system in place for effective management. Takeaways Multiple homeowners can include rental, vacation, and family...
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The Seasonal Guide to Home Maintenance
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic delve into the essential topic of home maintenance. They discuss what constitutes home maintenance, the importance of seasonal upkeep, and the necessity of having a maintenance schedule. The conversation also touches on the choice between DIY tasks and hiring professionals, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's home and its unique needs. The hosts provide practical insights and tips for homeowners to ensure their properties remain in optimal condition throughout the year. Takeaways...
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Unlocking Homeowner AI: Your Financial Ally
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the importance of financial visibility for homeowners through the use of Homeowner AI. They explore how homeowners can track their home value, equity, and expenses, emphasizing the need for ongoing financial awareness. The conversation includes a demonstration of the Homeowner AI platform, showcasing its features that help users make informed financial decisions regarding their homes. The hosts stress the significance of understanding both the emotional and financial aspects of...
info_outlineThe COVID-19 pandemic has forever changed the face of America’s workplace. In fact, an increasing number of folks might find their “new office” feels a lot like home – because it is literally their home.
Our post-pandemic “return to the office” may look different with hybrid or fully remote work models rapidly rising in popularity. Studies from Accenture support this trend with 83% of workers believing a hybrid model would be optimal going forward. Further, 87% of managers believe working from home is the future, according to Remote-How research.
While the new dynamic promises an improved work-life balance, it will also cause energy use and utility bills to skyrocket with technologies, appliances, and systems running over time – making optimal, energy-efficient home climate control a greater challenge.
The good news is that families can prevent a utility bill blitz by following a few simple tips. With home heating and cooling accounting for nearly half of home energy use, small steps can go a long way. Today, Beth and John are talking with Dennis Stinson, VP of Sales for Fujitsu General America. Dennis is here to offer expert advice for homeowners and discuss these questions:
- What is a “hybrid” home?
- How has this new workplace dynamic impacted America’s homeowners and their energy bills?
- What are the latest and most energy-efficient HVAC systems that can help offset increased utility bills as employees spend more time working from home?
- Are there any easy tips and tricks for practical fixes around the house that can help enhance energy efficiency?
IN THIS EPISODE:
- [02:33] What is the hybrid home and industry research
- [04:41] How hybrid homes impact homeowners’ energy bills
- [05:45] Assessing current HVAC centers
- [08:33] Leveraging smart home HVAC offerings
- [10:19] Adding additional units or splitting units
- [12:35] Consumer experience and mobile technologies
- [15:32] Energy incentives and rebates
- [17:30] Recap and action steps
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Action Step: Evaluate how well your HVAC system is working, or if you have had changes to how often you are home. Is the HVAC working properly?
- As a homeowner, you should have a relationship with a variety of different contractors. Try to find one before your system breaks. Get on a regular annual maintenance program to have your system maintained and cleaned.
- There are rebate and incentive programs available to promote higher energy efficiency in your home. Be sure to take advantage of these!
BIO:
Dennis Stinson is the Vice President of Sales for Fujitsu General America, a national manufacturer with distributors in local communities across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean and brings over 30 years of industry experience.
Dennis leads a team of sales professionals, selling well over $300M of Fujitsu products. At Fujitsu, Dennis has held the responsibilities of Regional Sales Manager in the Mid-Atlantic and The Director of National Accounts. Prior to joining Fujitsu, Dennis spent his career as a Manufacturer’s Representative representing various Manufacturers in the HVAC industry throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Dennis earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Millersville University of Pennsylvania.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-p-stinson-a49ab95a/
Website: www.constantcomfort.com