OG&E Positive Energy Home Benefits
- Is the home I’m building really energy–efficient?
Then look at a Positive Energy® Home – OG&E’s energy efficient home certification program.
Making the right decisions up front is crucial. And while state and local building codes set minimum
requirements, OG&E’s Positive Energy® Home offers a higher standard in efficiency – saving
energy, money and more.
These homes employ advanced materials and innovative design to:
- Increase energy efficiency and reduce utility costs
- Deliver a higher level of comfort in every season
- Provide a higher standard of construction value and overall quality
- Meet or exceed all specifications of a 2010 Energy Star® home
Home Investments, Future Gains
When building a new home, take the time to explore forward-thinking investments. We’re ready to
help with proven, professional recommendations such as:
- Increased insulation
- High-performance windows
- Tight construction and tight ducts
- Heating and cooling systems such as:
- Total Electric: No fumes to vent, ultra-clean and whisper quiet
- Efficiency: A 14-SEER A/C paired with a 90% AFUE furnace
- Geothermal System: An underground system that uses the earth to heat and cool the home
For a look at the brochure, visit: http://ht.ly/pHmxr
Builders: Don’t forget Realtors brought you to the dance!
The housing recovery has picked up steam and new-home sales are returning to historical levels!
Sales of new single-family homes are up 28.9 percent from January 2012, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 437,000, according to a recent U.S. Census Bureau report. That’s the best January since 2008, and there’s plenty more room to run — new-home sales exceeded 1 million a year during the last boom. "It is safe to assume that new homes construction will continue to move forward, if not surge," said David Crowe, chief economist for the National Association of Home Builders.
It is also safe to assume that a growing number of homebuilders — but not most — will forget the Realtors who brought them to the dance. Studies by the National Association of Realtors say that 63 percent of all new homes sold to prospects were introduced to the homebuilders by Realtors.
According to Builder Homesite Inc., a consortium of 32 of the largest production homebuilder in the United States, 84 percent of all home shoppers contact a Realtor. Thus, many production homebuilders face an important business decision that affects their sales and relationships with the very Realtors they have worked so hard to nurture.
It appears that 2013 is the year that new homes have become a high-demand inventory choice, especially as resale inventory remains tight. So homebuilders, who have been profit-starved for years, must either accept the fact that it’s worth offering a consistent commission and co-broker policy to Realtors who introduce ready, willing and able prospects to new homes, or not.
If they are going to cut out real estate brokers, "a builder must assume that his product is so magnificent they no longer need access to the 90 percent of all buyers that typically engage Realtors during their search process," said Tim Wilcox, president of Irvine, Calif.-based Home Builder Media Group.
While history may repeat itself, this time there is no history to repeat. This is the first housing recovery in the history of the world that comes with a marketing booster rocket: the Internet.
The counterargument is that the builder can now attract more walk-ins and thus "save" on commissions paid to brokers. But a large proportion of "walk-in" buyers also have homes to sell and are already working with a Realtor — an issue homebuilders have no solution for. Homebuilders will also be the first to tell you that a large percentage of their walk-in traffic is not financially qualified, or is not actually in the market. In the old days, street signs drove a large portion of the traffic. Today, there is much less impulse traffic.
Homebuyers have seen the home, the floor plan, prices, features, an aerial of the location, on the Internet, long before they visit the community. "Tire kickers" tend not to want to get involved with a Realtor, and that’s a good thing. Realtors deal with this market every day. Homebuilders have had a long time to get to know Realtors and evaluate the impact they have on sales. Marketing commitments to the Realtor community are much deeper than any time in history. It is not a simple thing to dismantle Realtor marketing machines that are generating "first responder" prospects that are converting to buyers. Production builders are now using their "Internet advisers" to set appointments for Realtor prospects — an unheard-of concept before the Internet. They focus on the prospect, not the Realtor.
Homebuilders are accepting the fact that Realtors control the homebuyers, and are making it easier and faster for Realtors to get their ever-improving on-site teams in front of the Realtor’s prospect. The fact is Realtors need the inventory. Homebuilders need qualified prospects to assure continued momentum.
Realtors, sharpen your new homes showing skills.
Homebuilders, don’t leave your Realtor networks at the dance.
After all, they stood by you in the recent past when you couldn’t get a date!
Younger Buyers More Optimistic, Confident About Homeownership
According to a recent National Association of Realtors® study that evaluated the generational differences of recent home buyers and sellers, 85 percent of buyers under age 32 believe their home purchase was a good financial investment. That is compared to just 50 percent of buyers ages 88 and older.
“The oldest of the Millennial generation are starting to buy their first home,” said Keith Taggart, President of The Oklahoma Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (OKCMAR). “They understand that homeownership is one way to accumulate wealth, especially for younger families in today’s world. Currently, they might be facing an uncertain job market, mounting debt, and tighter mortgage lending rules, yet homeownership still matters to them, and they still aspire to one day become homeowners.”
The study found that 79 percent of Millennials were first-time home buyers and 65 percent of them previously rented a home. Half of respondents said the reason for buying a home was their desire to own a home of their own. Twenty-two percent said the affordability of homes made them want to purchase. The Millennial generation is also the second largest group of recent buyers, accounting for 28 percent of recent purchases. They follow Generation X, those born between 1965 and 1979, who made up 31 percent of recent purchases.
“The Millennial generation is the largest in history after the baby boomers and they are expected to give the housing market a boost,” said Taggart. “However, there are some significant challenges that might hinder their ability to purchase homes. Buyers with student loan debt may find it difficult to access mortgage credit, as well as save for a down payment.”
The impact of student loan debt is a concern for future generations and their ability to become home owners, since those burdened with growing monthly debt payments will have restricted access to mortgage credit and could find it harder to save for a down payment.
Taggart agrees today’s young home buyers are facing challenges, yet those hurdles aren’t changing younger buyers’ attitudes about homeownership. “There is still tremendous affordability in the market and interest rates are still low,” said Taggart. “Today’s market presents opportunities for young buyers to own a home and they recognize that. Realtors® are committed to making sure those who are willing and able to own a home have the opportunity to do so. Everyone should have the ability to pursue the dream of homeownership.”
Courtesy of OKCMAR Mocha Newsletter
Real Estate Corner…
How Should I Go About The Process?
On the other hand, a home equity line of credit allows you to draw upon a pre-approved loan only when you need the money. Then, you only make payments when there is an outstanding balance. You can often access this line of credit using either a check from that account or a special credit card.
One of the downfalls of the line of credit is that it may have a set amount of time you are allowed to draw upon the available funds. If your home improvements exceed the time limit, you will need to be sure you can either get an extension or another line of credit. Some of these plans also have a deadline when all of the money must be repaid in full. Both of these aspects limit the time flexibility for your home improvements to be completed.
If you need advice regarding what type of home equity loan to get, or to get pre-approved for a home loan, go to http://www.firstoklahomabank.com/prslend.html.
How to Use Comparable Sales to Price Your Home
Before you put your home up for sale, use the right comparable sales to find the perfect price. Read
Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.
Copyright 2012 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Real Estate Corner…
Q. How Much Can I Afford To Pay For A New Home?
A. When you’re interested in purchasing a home, the mortgage company or your REALTOR® will usually determine the amount you can afford by using one of two formulas.
The Payment to Income Ratio is a fairly simple formula. It adds your future mortgage payment, property taxes and insurance together to get what is called a “PITI” payment. This amount is divided by your total household income to produce a percentage. Most loan companies consider anything under 28 percent an acceptable ratio and the loan is granted.
The Debt to Income Ratio is not as simple. It not only adds the PITI payment, but all monthly payments. This includes auto loans, credit card payments, investment payments, and other fixed monthly bills. The acceptable percentage using this method is usually higher than the standard 28 percent, but varies by lender.
The easiest way to figure out what you can afford is to figure out your Payment to Income Ratio using a monthly payment that produces a final percentage slightly under 28 percent of your income. Then using a loan amortization chart, which can be obtained from your REALTOR®, you can identify the appropriate price range for your future home. Of course, the overall price range is also affected by the amount of your down payment, current interest rates, and the term of the loan.
Most REALTORS® work with mortgage companies and offer professional consultation to help you determine how much you are qualified to purchase.
If you are considering buying a home in the near future,
are looking for competent and caring representation,
please call me at 405-820-1740.
Email: rhonda@rhondasrealestate.com
Clutter
Pack up personal photo frames, trophies, knick-knacks, books and your personal decorations like children’s artwork and team posters. The goal is to strike a balance of inviting and uncluttered. If you wouldn’t find it in a model home, go ahead and pack it up.
Remember, less is more. Get rid of extra magazines, candies, refrigerator magnets, blankets thrown over the couch, and any other items that are temporary decorations.
If you want to clear away the clutter and get honest, reliable advice on today’s housing market, call me. I specialize in marketing & staging homes and I welcome the opportunity to handle all your real estate needs.
Email: rhonda@rhondasrealestate.com
Web: www:RhondasRealEstate.com
Cell: 405-820-1740
Real Estate Corner…
Q. We Are Considering Purchasing A Home And Are Uneasy About The Negotiation Process. Can You Help?
A. The goal of a positive real estate negotiation is to result in a win-win agreement. This is an agreement where both the seller and buyer feel they have received an equitable deal.
Here are a few simple tips to help ensure that you negotiate fairly.
- First, make sure that you offer a fair price. Nothing turns a seller off faster than a “low-ball” offer. Likewise, don’t get into negotiations on a grossly overpriced home. This can leave you feeling taken advantage of and exhausted. Both the asking price and your offer should be based on current and factual comparable sales in the area.
- Second, always respect the priorities of your counterpart. Try to identify the other side’s motivations. Then, examine your own. If some items prove to be a sticking point in negotiations, offer to meet half way. This may require you to pay half of some expenses or modify your closing date, but in the end you will feel as if you have fairly compromised. If you have addendums to your main agreement, it may be helpful to solidify the purchase agreement and then deal with the addendums later.
- Finally, using a third party on your behalf will keep you focused and emotionally disconnected—resulting in a much better outcome. Look for a CNE ~ Certified Negotiation Expert. I’ve made the art of successful negotiation the cornerstone of my business. I work hard to understand the needs of both the seller and the buyer in the transaction, and can put these years of experience to work for you.
If you are thinking of selling or buying soon,
be sure to interview your Real Estate Professional...
how do they overcome objections,
how do they negotiate.
If I can assist you further, please call me at 405-820-1740.
Important Tips For Buying Disability Insurance
Are you insured in the event you become disabled? Many Americans don’t have disability coverage because they don’t feel that they need the insurance. Ask yourself if you could afford to support yourself and loved ones if you were out of work for a long period due to illness or injury. Strangely enough, many of us carry life insurance policies to protect our families in case of death, but decline disability coverage. For younger workers, it’s more likely you will be injured than it is that you will die. It also is more likely that you will be hurt away from your job than on the job and that you will become disabled due to disease than to an injury.
When considering long-term disability insurance there are several things you should keep in mind. The first item is that most automatic disability coverage given by the majority of employers is not enough to sustain you during an injury. You will probably need to purchase additional coverage. If you carry only your company’s insurance, you may lose your right to appeal a denied claim. This is because the insurance company works for your employer, not for you. So your individual rights may be limited. You also need to find out if the benefits you receive will be taxable income. Most company policy benefits are taxable, but some individual policies are exempt.
When shopping for a policy, use a licensed agent who is approved to work with several insurance agencies. This will provide you with a broader range of options. Individual policies that are not regulated by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) give you greater flexibility and safeguards to protect yourself.
If you can afford it, be sure that your policy is based on your overall ability to do your specific job. Avoid policies that provide benefits only if you become totally disabled. And, be sure that your policy is not written such that if you can perform even a portion of your job, your benefits will be reduced. Your best bet is to purchase a total disability policy.
Look for a policy that covers both physical and psychological disabilities. Also, make sure your policy waives your premium during any period of disability. Most policies have only a short waiting period to get started and the benefits should be applicable for your entire lifetime. If they do not last for your entire lifetime, aim for an age when you know that you will be getting another income such as Social Security or a pension. Be sure that your coverage is guaranteed as long as you pay your premiums. If possible ask for a cost of living increase to be written into the policy. It will be worth it if you find yourself disabled.
Purchasing a long-term disability policy is a good idea for most working adults. Disability insurance not only offers you peace of mind, it’ll go a long way to support you and your family if the unforeseen strikes.
Real Estate Corner…
Q. We want to purchase a home but fear that our poor credit will prevent us from getting financing. How can we repair our credit?
A. Initially, you need to obtain a copy of your credit report and contact your creditors. You will need to explain your current situation and offer to pay a percentage of your outstanding bill.
Often creditors will settle for 30-40 percent of the total bill. Once you have made your partial settlement payment, get them to issue you a signed settlement letter. Copies of these letters will need to be sent to all of the credit bureaus (Equifax, Trans Union, and Experian/TRW). In the eyes of a lender, this is a better method of rectifying your credit than setting up a payment plan though a consumer counseling service. By resolving your own credit problems using the partial payment approach, it demonstrates to lenders your ability to be a responsible credit user. In addition to avoiding the consumer counseling services, you should also avoid filing bankruptcy if at all possible. This act will stay on your credit for a period of 10 years. One of the only ways to redeem yourself in the eyes of a lender after filing bankruptcy is to get secured credit cards. These are prepaid credit accounts that allow you to demonstrate your ability to spend wisely.
When looking for a mortgage after credit problems, look to mortgage brokers. They are often able to offer you greater options than mainstream lenders. Just because you have credit issues, don’t expect that you will be stuck with higher interest rates. Some lenders can offer you great options. Once you have begun to repair your credit history, it is imperative that you make payments on time. Lenders who give you a second chance will not be a lenient with borrowers who have a history of credit problems. It becomes your responsibility to prove to the lenders that you are capable of controlling your credit future.
If you are thinking of selling or buying soon, and require competent and caring representation,
feel free to call me at 405-820-1740 or email me at: rhonda@rhondasrealestate.com.
Don't Sell Me...
I get calls...and emails all the time from someone trying to sell me on some new marketing, whether online or paper material. Those on the hard sell that don't listen to me...I've been known to hang up on when they talk over me.
So...knowing I don't want to be sold...and a line I've used many times...I want to share how I believe people want to be approached:
1. Don't sell me...Help Me!
If you need someone to sell you...go to a salesman who talks you into something because that's not me...I'm here to help you so you make decisions for yourself.
2. Don't close me...Advise Me!
If you need someone to quote you a good script to close you on something...you again want to speak with a salesman...I'm here to advise you, inform you, and help you form your own opinion.
3. Don't push me...Encourage Me!
If you need someone to push you because you struggle making decisions...I'm not the one for you either...I'm here to encourage you to gain knowledge and understanding so you can create your future.
So...knowing I don't want to be sold...and a line I've used many times...I want to share how I believe people want to be approached:
1. Don't sell me...Help Me!
If you need someone to sell you...go to a salesman who talks you into something because that's not me...I'm here to help you so you make decisions for yourself.
2. Don't close me...Advise Me!
If you need someone to quote you a good script to close you on something...you again want to speak with a salesman...I'm here to advise you, inform you, and help you form your own opinion.
3. Don't push me...Encourage Me!
If you need someone to push you because you struggle making decisions...I'm not the one for you either...I'm here to encourage you to gain knowledge and understanding so you can create your future.
Here's to your future!
To find out more: www.rhondasrealestate.com
Contact me: rhonda@rhondasrealestate.com
Rhonda's 2012 Blessings...
....no, make that 11!
· Blessed are the confident for they shall have an unshakable belief in themselves based on a realistic understanding of their circumstances; a trait that most people admire in others and strive to acquire themselves.
· Blessed are the curious for they shall be eager to know, learn, and grow; always showing interest and giving special attention to the less obvious; always being the person who says “I want to know more about…”
· Blessed are those who are decisive, for they shall arrive at a final conclusion or make a choice and take action; making decisions with determination even when they don’t have all the information they think they need.
· Blessed are those who are empathetic, for they shall demonstrate care and understanding of someone else’s situation, feelings, and motives; always thinking about what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes.
· Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be bent out of shape, nor be rigid and unable to change with life; responding positively to change; being pliable, adaptable, and able to deal with ambiguity.
· Blessed are those who love humor, for they shall not take themselves or life too seriously; viewing themselves and the world with enjoyment; being amused, and at times, even comical!
· Blessed are the intelligent, for they shall think and work smarter and cleverly; being sharp in their dealings; “not reinventing the wheel”: planning before acting; working efficiently and focusing on quality over quantity.
· Blessed are the optimistic, for they shall expect the best possible outcome; dwelling on the most hopeful or positive aspects of a situation; believing that the glass is half full rather than half empty.
· Blessed are those who display perseverance, for they shall have passion, energy, focus and the desire to get results; always staying motivated, persistent in their hard work.
· Blessed are the respectful, for they shall remember that it is just as easy to be nice; protecting another person's self-esteem; treating others in a considerate and courteous manner.
· Blessed are the self-aware, for they shall display a sophisticated form of consciousness that enables them to regulate themselves by monitoring, observing, and changing their thought processes and behaviors.
5 tips to stay on top of home maintenance
Where to find reliable contractors
By Dian Hymer
Inman News®
Share This
Many buyers don't understand that home maintenance goes with homeownership. When you rent, someone else usually pays for repairs. As a homeowner, you're responsible for keeping your home in good condition.
Unless you're handy at home repairs, it can be costly to maintain a home properly. But there is a benefit at the end of the line. Buyers pay more for homes that are well-maintained and show a pride of ownership.
It can be a hassle to properly maintain your home unless you organize and prioritize the projects that need to be done. You also need to set a schedule and stick to it.
Most home maintenance can be done annually: roof maintenance (including gutters and downspouts); sealing exterior cracks; weatherproofing; a furnace and air conditioning inspection; and inspecting and cleaning the drainage system.
Mark these events on your calendar so that they can be scheduled for about a month before you'd like to have the work done. If you wait until just before the rainy season to start your annual maintenance, you could have trouble finding good contractors to help you.
Don't wait until your roof is leaking to repair or replace it. There will be collateral damage to the interior of the house. Your homeowners insurance company might pay to repair the interior damage, less the amount of your deductible, but it won't pay to replace the roof. Too many claims could be grounds for not renewing your policy.
HOUSE HUNTING TIP: Assemble a crew of contractors and tradespeople who can help you with your home maintenance. It's not always easy to find reliable people who do good work. You'll end up frustrated and having to do more oversight if you work with people who don't show up or do the job right.
Ask your real estate agent or acquaintances who own homes in the area to recommend tradespeople to you. If the seller is happy with people who have worked on the property, ask for a list of names and contact information when you close the sale.
Homeowners who haven't the time or expertise to determine what needs to be done to keep their home in good shape could ask the home inspector that inspected the house for them to do a reinspection periodically to point out areas that need attention.
One of the keys to good home maintenance is to take care of critical items as soon as they become apparent. For instance, don't postpone repairing a plumbing pipe leak. Have it repaired as soon as you notice it.
Don't assume that because your house is new that you won't have any maintenance issues. If the gutters back up on any house, even a new house, water can leak into the house or down the inside of the walls. This, left unchecked, can lead to a major repair to the framing. If repaired right away, you may just need to seal and touch up the paint.
Likewise, even though you just had the exterior painted, you still may have areas that will need touch up every year or so, especially if they receive intense sun exposure.
THE CLOSING: Don't go for the cheapest contractor or building materials just to save money. If an inferior-quality job has to be redone sooner than anticipated, your savings will dwindle.
Dian Hymer, a real estate broker with more than 30 years' experience, is a nationally syndicated real estate columnist and author of "House Hunting: The Take-Along Workbook for Home Buyers" and "Starting Out, The Complete Home Buyer's Guide."
On Time or Early...or Always Late
Do you know the one reason people arrive late? They leave late. What I mean is; it is not the traffic, it is not the directions, it is not the last minute phone call, it is simply that they left late. In my experience most people arrive for business appointments late.
Being late tells me a few things about people:
They don't respect my time;
They are disorganized;
They are not someone I can rely on to keep a commitment.
Perfect example:
Several years ago a client of mine, who I won't name names, Doc, showed up 15 minutes early. He was sitting on the porch of the home we were about to view. I had to look at my watch to make sure I was on time because this had not happened to me. I was really put off since I thought the seller would have been offended by someone sitting on their porch...fortunately that was not the case.
As not to be "late" again...and as the joke would have it between us later...I showed up at our next time to view homes 30 minutes early! Oh the shock and joy on his face knowing I would not be outdone!
I have always been one to be on time or early since it upsets my whole day. How do you come across? Are you always late? Giving the impression that no one is important enough or you are more important than they? If so, let it be the "you" of the past.
Are you disorganized? Never able to find things when you need them? If so, let it be the "you" of the past.
Are you someone who doesn't make commitments because you know you will not be able to live up to them? If so, let it be the "you" of the past.
Let this be the New Year that you make the commitment to show others that you value their time. Let this be the year you are able to stick with a resolution that means something to others, respect for others...as well as yourself...your time...your organization...your commitments!
~HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!~
Color is a Powerful Thing - Set the Right Tone
Like death and taxes, there is no escaping color. It is ubiquitous. Yet what does it all mean?
Why are people more relaxed in green rooms? Why do weightlifters do their best in blue gyms?
Blue
The color of the sky and the ocean, blue is one of the most popular colors. It causes the opposite reaction as red. Peaceful, tranquil blue causes the body to produce calming chemicals, so it is often used in bedrooms. Blue can also be cold and depressing. People are more productive in blue rooms. Blue is often the chosen color by conservative people. Blue is so soothing that is a good choice for pajamas. Dark blue is the color of truth and moderation.Fashion consultants recommend wearing the midnight hues to job interviews because it symbolizes loyalty, while wearing the serene lighter shades soothes the person wearing it making the people around them feel at ease and party guests feeling comfortable in your presence. Studies even show weightlifters are able to handle heavier weights in blue gyms!
Red
The most emotionally intense color, red stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing. It gets noticed but makes the wearer appear heavier. (Still my favorite color...who cares if it makes one appear heavier!) It is also the color of love. Since it is such an extreme color, red clothing might not help people in negotiations or confrontations. Red is the color most chosen by extroverts and one of the top picks of males. Men are attracted to women wearing the ruby hue. On the negative side red can mean temper or anger.In decorating, red is usually used as an accent, but makes a great wall color as well...for those daring enough to do it...and do it right! Decorators say that red furniture should be perfect since it draws attention.
Purple
Purple is the color of good judgment. It is the color of people seeking spiritual fulfillment. It is said if you surround yourself with purple you will have peace of mind. Purple is a good color to use in meditation.The color of royalty, creativity...a feeling of inspiration. Purple connotes luxury, wealth, and sophistication. It is also feminine and romantic. Because it is one of those colors people either love or hate, wearing it sends the message that you're a self-assured free thinker. However, because it is rare in nature, purple can appear artificial. Most children love the color purple. Purple is the color most favored by artists.
Black
Black is the most misunderstood color. It is the color of authority and power. It is also stylish and timeless. It's a color not often used on walls, but as accents. Black is not a color, strictly speaking. It is the absence of all color. When people speak of opposites, it is usually in terms of black and white.Black also implies submission. Priests wear black to signify submission to God. Some fashion experts say a woman wearing black implies submission to men. To take the edge off, choose something with a bit of embellishment, like lace or ruffles. It is popular in fashion because it makes people appear thinner. Black outfits can also be overpowering, or make the wearer seem aloof or evil. A black tie dinner is very formal and elegant. Women can wear that "must have little black dress" to the black tie dinner.
Orange
Orange is fun! Orange is a power color. It is said to increase the craving for food. Orange means vitality with endurance. This exuberant shade isn't the best choice for a serious business meeting or jury duty. Because it is enthusiastic and inviting, you should wear it when you want to appear social, friendly, or approachable. People who like orange are usually thoughtful and sincere. If an orange outfit isn't at the top of your list, try a belt or a pair of shoes.
Curiosity is a driving characteristic of orange, and with it comes exploration of new things. If a change of any kind is needed in life, just burn an orange candle for 7 nights.
Green
Currently the most popular decorating color, green symbolizes nature, fertility, life. Grass green is the most restful color. It is the easiest color on the eye and can improve vision. It is a calming, refreshing color.
It instantly brings about feelings of peace, happiness, and contentment. Geen symbolizes self-respect and well being. Green is the color of balance. It also means learning, growth and harmony. Green is a safe color, if you don't know what color to use anywhere use green.
People waiting to appear on TV sit in "green rooms" to relax. Hospitals often use green because it relaxes patients. Dark green is masculine, conservative, and implies wealth. Green contains the powerful energies of nature, growth, desire to expand or increase. Balance and a sense of order are found in the color green. Change and transformation is necessary for growth, and so this ability to sustain changes is also a part of the energy of green.
White
White means kindness. Brides wear white to symbolize innocence and purity. White reflects light and is considered a summer color. White is popular in decorating and in fashion because it is light, neutral, and goes with everything. However, white shows dirt and is therefore more difficult to keep clean than other colors.Strictly speaking, white is not a color, but the manifestation of the presence of all color - the complete energy of light. It stands for wholeness and completion. In many cultures it represents openness and truth. White has a cold quality. It can provide clarity as its energy is complete.
Yellow
Cheerful sunny yellow is an attention getter. While it is considered an optimistic color, people lose their tempers more often in yellow rooms, and babies will cry more. It is the most difficult color for the eye to take in, so it can be overpowering if overused. Yellow enhances concentration, hence its use for legal pads. It also speeds metabolism.Pure, bright and sunny yellow is the easiest color to see. People who are blind to other colors can usually see yellow. Yellow is full of creative and intellectual energy. Yellow symbolizes wisdom. Yellow means joy and happiness. People of high intellect favor yellow.
Brown
People who prefer brown are often conventional and orderly. The negative meaning of brown can be a repressed personality or a lazy person. Brown is the color of the earth and is associated with the material side of life.Solid, reliable brown is the color of earth and is abundant in nature. Light brown implies genuineness while dark brown is similar to wood or leather. Brown can also be sad and wistful.
Men are more apt to say brown is one of their favorite colors. Brown is a warm neutral color that can stimulate the appetite. Brown represents wholesomeness and earthiness. While it might be considered a little on the dull side, it also represents steadfastness, simplicity, friendliness, dependability, and health.
When considering color, whether inside or outside your home, choose with meaning in mind. Your favorite color purple or pink is not the best choice for the exterior of your home, but done correctly inside a room, it can be powerful!
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