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Are you looking for easy ways to cut energy costs without the headache, hassle or feeling of deprivation? Following are five ways to dramatically reduce your energy costs without increasing inconvenience.

Time Out: One simple solution is to set the thermostat, water heater and other appliances on a timer. Schedule each to power on at least 30 minutes prior to your arrival or use and then automatically power down when done.

Fan-tastic: Ceiling fans, room fans and even whole house attic fans are a fantastic way to save money without scrimping. Use an attic fan to eliminate heat from the attic before turning on the air, and then combine with a ceiling fan to reduce thermostat settings.

Light Up Your Life: New energy-efficient LED lights are beginning to come down in price. They are cool to the touch and don’t heat up the house like standard bulbs, resulting in even more energy efficiency.

Hang Out More: Summer fun in the sun makes it easy to save money simply by hanging out. Hang out the laundry to cut energy costs by 10% or more. For those who prefer to cut costs without the chores, just hang out with friends over a great barbecue and keep the house cool.

Bite Back: Vampire appliances beware. Consumers are now armed with the means to bite back against constant streams of energy expenditures, thanks to a host of new technology. From basic plug-ins to elaborate breaker-box surge protection and energy-expenditure meters, there is something for every budget.

It all started with a phone call from a luxury agent from Miami, FL. A sports agent contacted her to represent two rookies coming into two of our Florida professional football teams. She referred one rookie to me and it was then that I knew this was a clientele for which I am well suited.

Because professional athletes relocate a lot due to draft, trade or other reasons, it’s not uncommon for many professional athletes to move to a new state several times within their careers. It is my job to relieve the burden of worrying about finding a new home while retaining a total sense of privacy throughout the process. As a Certified Luxury Homes Marketing Specialist, I am well aware of the importance of maintaining confidentiality for my clients.

I want players and their financial advisors to rely on me, Michele Herndon, to help them find the perfect Florida home with as little inconvenience as possible and a huge emphasis on protecting their privacy. I may be a huge fan, but I can assure you that when we work together, its no-nonsense business.

Because of the nature of the business, it’s inevitable that many players can be traded again. That’s why it’s very important that they buy a home that’s not only right for them, but also a good investment. I realize that at a moment’s notice a player may have to sell his home. So buying it at the right price and selling it for the best price is at the top of the list, as resale-ability is very important under these circumstances.

Who Has Time to Go House Hunting?
It is understood that professional athletes have busy schedules, so not only do I time-block for my player/clients around their schedules, but I also work extensively with spouses and or significant others to do the initial leg work. I generally communicate via email, and send pictures and videos of prospective homes if a purchase is involved.

I handle all the details along with the athlete’s financial advisors and keep it simple for the players. All details of contract paperwork will be handled in a method of communication that suits my clients best, wherever they might be playing, even if they are on the road. Whatever it takes, I get the job done quickly, professionally, and discreetly. I cannot reiterate enough my understanding of the need to be discreet and my willingness to respect and protect the privacy of my clients as they buy or sell their home in the Tampa Bay area.

Searching for easy ways to spruce up your abode? Following are some ways to transform your home for less than $10.

Turn Your TV Into Art: Newer television sets can easily display family portraits, vacation photos or your favorite scenery with the touch of a button. Just upload to the gallery, add music if desired and enjoy.

Paint It Up: Add a splash of color to a boring old chair or bring new life to a table with bold bright colors.

Sign Your Name: Decorations don’t need to be expensive. Use a template or vinyl letters to showcase your favorite quote. Simply select a blank spot on the wall or furniture to instantly apply a thoughtful expression to your daily life.

Stop to Smell the Roses: Bring a little of the outdoors inside with the creative use of flowers, grasses, leaves, pinecones or even rocks. They add interest and color to any décor.

Cover Up: Use old wrapping paper, string and ribbons to transform plain cardboard boxes into ultra-colorful organizers.

Soft Spots: Create soft spots with the help of a semitransparent scarf draped over a lamp, table or armchair. Use different colors to create ambiance.

Create Interest: Repurpose old jewelry, buttons and other knickknacks by adding interest to throw pillows, pull strings or other ordinary items around the home. Sew on or thread together using ribbons and lace.