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Valley should embrace GM battery factory

The automotive world is on the cusp of sweeping changes in technology not seen in more than a century. Gas and diesel engines are going by the wayside, and decisions are being made right now on where the factories of the future will be located. Currently we have several companies considering significant electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing investments right here in the Mahoning Valley. General Motors told United Auto Workers negotiators that the company wants to open its first battery-cell manufacturing facility here. This could plant the seed and bring other leaders in the future of ...

Commercial and residential real estate sales are different

Ohio law does not differentiate between commercial and residential Realtors. They carry the exact same license, but that is where the similarities end. Like Venus and Mars, black and white, fast and slow, there are stark differences in the skill sets needed to successfully represent clients in either arena. While some people possess both sets of skills, because of the vast differences, most Realtors only choose one path. Here is why. Residential real estate works around the emotion of buying. Preferences about how the neighborhood feels, how the house looks, and the number of ...

Despite hope, GM Lordstown not reopening

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown said during a recent stop in Youngstown he’s “still holding out” hope General Motors will place its own electric vehicle at the idled Lordstown facility. State Rep. Gil Blair, D-Weathersfield, said, “My preference is to bring back a GM product. The possibility of it happening is better than people think.” While Brown, Blair and others are seeking what amounts to a miracle, GM CEO Mary Barra has made it clear the company doesn’t have plans for a new GM product at the local plant. GM officials say they are negotiating with the Lordstown Motors Corp. ...

Price only one factor to consider in real estate sales

Special to the Tribune Chronicle Buying and selling a home is a transaction that may easily take money, but the results of that purchase will have a lasting effect for many years. The problem with most negotiations comes from focusing on the obvious the price. There are so many facets to the transaction that sometimes price can be far less important than most people think. Let’s start with the loan. What is the difference in payments on a $100,000 home financed 30 years for 4.75 percent, and a $103,000 home at 4.5 percent? Nothing. The monthly payments over 30 years is ...

Seven repairs to make before selling a house

As a smart seller, you’ll want your home in tip-top shape, but you don’t want to eat into your profits by overspending on home improvements. You won’t be around to enjoy them anyway. The key is to focus on the most important repairs to make before selling a house to ensure every dollar you spend supports a higher asking price. But how do you know what things to do before putting your house on the market? According to House-Logic, the National Association of Realtors consumer website, prioritize these updates and consider letting the rest go. 1. Fix damaged flooring. ...

The best time of year to buy items for homes

Just bought a new home and looking for some new furnishings? Want to know when to look for sales on mattresses, appliances, tools and other items? Then read on. According to House-Logic, the National Association of Realtors consumer website, buying can be stressful. Cheap out, and you could regret it. Overspend, and you’ll cut into your budget. Knowing the best time of year to buy appliances and other household items can lessen the anxiety. • Furniture: January and July. You could save 30 to 60 percent buying furniture in January and July, as stores try to clear out inventory ...