Marine Plumbing & Ventilation The plumbing and ventilation systems are two of the most important aspects of your boat. It is very important that any toilet facilities work properly, and you also need to ensure that there is adequate ventilation for the engine and to remove any fumes that can build up in passenger compartments or similar areas. With our marine plumbing and ventilation parts and accessories, you have what you need all in one place, right at your fingertips. From air conditioning & refrigeration supplies to bilge pumps, fans, and hot water heaters, we have it all under one roof.   We carry several brands and can offer Livewell pumps and transfer pumps, along with several marine sanitation options. Portable toilets are an excellent choice for boats that are large enough to accommodate them, but the comfort of your passengers is not the only thing to be aware of. You also need to make sure you have adequate engine cooling pumps, and that any washdown / pressure pumps work correctly. With a WaterMaker pump, quality fittings, and the right blowers & heaters for your boat, you can ensure that your boat will operate correctly and your passengers will have the comfort and convenience they need.

MTMS Marine Thermal Monitoring System - Formally called AX8 Gain an entirely new view of your vessel's mechanical system with the FLIR AX8 thermal monitoring camera. Combining thermal and visible cameras in a small, affordable package, the AX8 integrates with Raymarine multifunction displays (MFDs) and sends audible and visual alerts when the temperature of machine parts rise above preset thresholds. Keep a watchful eye on such critical equipment as engines, exhaust manifolds, and shaft bearings and spot problems before they leave you stranded on the water. And FLIR's exclusive MSXr imaging blends visible and thermal images for more detailed imagery that is easier to understand. Spot Potential Problems Before They Happen State-of-the-art thermal monitoring of engines and onboard machinery. Powered by Lepton, FLIR's most advanced micro thermal camera. Exclusive Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging (MSX®) for easy-to-understand thermal imagery. On Board Thermal Alarming & Visual Analysis Stream live thermal video of exhaust manifolds, propeller shafts, electrical panels, and other machinery. Program specific areas to generate automated spot alarms when temperatures exceed pre-set thresholds. Evaluate ongoing temperature trends. Help avoid costly repairs and unwanted breakdowns. Raymarine Integration View thermal, visible, and MSX video imagery on Raymarine LightHouse IIT MFDs. Continuous thermal monitoring with audible and visual alarms across the Raymarine network. Connect up to eight AX8 cameras using Ethernet View and record thermal video and snapshots from any Raymarine display on the network. Easy setup and alarm programming with a PC and web browser.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System - 4 Sensor & Repeater Package Monitor the air pressure and temperature of up to 22 tires in real-time with the iN•Command® Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The waterproof sensors use Bluetooth technology to communicate important safety information right to your smart device with the iN•Command TPMS App.  The repeater extends the Bluetooth signal for longer vehicle (up to 100 Meters or 300+ Feet) applications when mounted between the smartphone and rear tires.   Just open the Apple or Android App to assign a sensor to each tire by scanning the QR code with your device's camera to receive audible alerts and notifications. Features: Works with RVs, Trailers, Passenger Vehicles, and More Each Tire can be Monitored Individually for Pressure and Temperature (F° or C°) Ability to Monitor up to 22 Tires at Once w/ the iN-Command app Lets you Access Tire Pressure and Temperature History Free App is Available on Android and Apple Smartphones Pressure monitoring range: 0 to 185 PSI In the Box: Four (4) Bluetooth-Enabled Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors w/ Locking Anti-Theft Bolts Four (4) 3V - CR1632 Batteries Bluetooth Repeater Installation Wrench Instruction Manual *Sold as an Individual

Tire Pressure Monitoring System - 2 Sensor Package Monitor the air pressure and temperature of up to 22 tires in real-time with the iN•Command® Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The waterproof sensors use Bluetooth technology to communicate important safety information right to your smart device with the iN•Command TPMS App.  Just open the Apple or Android App to assign a sensor to each tire by scanning the QR code with your device's camera to receive audible alerts. Features: Works with RVs, Trailers, Passenger Vehicles, and More Each Tire can be Monitored Individually for Pressure and Temperature (F° or C°)  Ability to Monitor up to 22 Tires at Once w/ the iN-Command app Lets you Access Tire Pressure and Temperature History Free App is Available on Android and Apple Smartphones Pressure monitoring range: 0 to 185 PSI In the Box: Two (2) Bluetooth-Enabled Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors w/ Locking Anti-Theft Bolts Two (2) 3V - CR1632 Batteries  Installation Wrench Instruction Manual *Sold as an Individual 

TankAssure Tank Monitoring System with Control Panel and Sensor Introducing the Raritan TankAssure - a game-changing tank monitoring system that raises standards for marine vessels. Its easy-to-read display allows you to keep track of up to four tanks in one place making it an ultra reliable option. With its user-friendly interface and streamlined design this is truly next-level technology. Make sure a vessel has what it needs with the Raritan TankAssures unparalleled performance! TankAssure is a versatile solution that works with any polyethylene, fiberglass, or metal tank. Its submersible set-and-forget sensor makes installation easy while eliminating wire management issues. The low profile wall indicator ensures there are no protruding switches for an unobtrusive look on a vessel. TankAssures integrated Blocked Vent Detector technology guarantees efficient diagnosis of tanks along with effective odor control measures. With the Raritan App, you can monitor tank capacity remotely from anywhere aboard giving accurate readouts of its current level at all times. This feature allows users to stay informed about their vessel's fuel levels without having to physically check them manually. Features: Reliable electronic design perfected for any marine environment Compatible with any polyethylene, fiberglass, or metal tank Use it to monitor sewage, greywater, and freshwater Integrated Blocked Vent Detector technology helps in quickly diagnosing holding tank venting problems Seamless connection to the Raritan App, allowing you to monitor tank capacity from anywhere on a vessel Get an exact percentage readout for each tank capacity using the Raritan App N2K compatible with the 156300 NMEA2000 Adapter (sold separately) Up to 4 tanks can be monitored with 1 control panel (15610 Sensor Kit with 1-inch fitting, required for each additional tank) Installation Ease The submersible set-and-forget sensor is designed to be dropped into either the top or side of the tanks; there is no need for external sensors or adhesives. This feature makes it incredibly convenient and easy to use. Say goodbye to complicated installation processes! The low-profile wall indicator boasts a sleek surface that eliminates any unsightly protruding switches. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize style and functionality in their home decor. Simplify installation and wire management with minimal wiring. This feature makes it easy to set up a system without worrying about complicated cables or messy tangles. Say goodbye to cluttered spaces and hello to a clean, organized setup! Ease of Use The electronic design is reliable and tailored to any marine environment. Its perfection ensures that it will function seamlessly in all conditions. Raritan's product is designed to work seamlessly with any polyethylene, fiberglass, or metal tank. Raritan made sure that compatibility isn't an issue, so users can focus on what matters most - getting the job done right! The versatility of this tool allows it to be used for monitoring sewage, gray water, fresh water, diesel, and gasoline. This makes it an essential asset in various industries where these substances are present. The integrated Blocked Vent Detector technology simplifies odor control and tank diagnosis. This innovative feature streamlines the process for improved efficiency. With this cutting-edge tool at disposal, users can rest assured that any issues with the tanks will be quickly identified and addressed. The Raritan App provides a seamless connection that enables users to keep track of tank capacity from any location on the vessel. This feature ensures that users are always informed about the status of the tanks and can make decisions accordingly. With this technology at hand, managing resources has never been easier! The Raritan App provides an exact percentage readout for each tank's capacity. This feature is particularly useful when managing multiple storage facilities or tracking inventory levels in real-time. With this tool available, users can stay informed about tank capacities and make data-driven decisions with confidence. Low power usage Available in 12 or 24V DC configurations 12v ONLY with the NMEA2000 Adaptor Monitoring tank capacity has never been easier thanks to TankAssures' innovative dual monitoring system. With its intuitive control panel and wireless Raritan App integration, users can keep tabs on the vessel tanks with ease. By utilizing these two methods together, one can quickly identify any issues, such as full or empty tanks or blocked vents, while also receiving precise readouts of current capacities. Stay ahead of the game by choosing TankAssure for all your vessel management needs! WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Bilge Boat Monitor System - 12/24V A complete monitoring system that provides you with real time data to your smartphone or your computer such as bilge water level alarm, battery status, positioning/tracking alarms if your boat is being moved and more! Easy to install, suitable for virtually any floating vessel with 12/24 V DC power onboard. Features: SIM card that works with all international GSM communication standards with outstanding connectivity; optional use your own SIM card. Latest technology and designed for marine use, robust and very compact. Built-in battery allows the device to continue to send information over a period of time if the power is cut. IPX6 water protected and withstands rough movements at sea. Approved by international insurance companies. CE and FCC certified *Reduce your insurance costs up to 20% by having an approved high-water alarm and positioning system installed onboard

Boat Monitor System - 12/24V A boat positioning system that provides you with real time data to your smartphone or your computer such as battery status and positioning/tracking alarms if your boat is being moved. Easy to install, suitable for virtually any floating vessel with 12/24 V DC power onboard. Features: SIM card that works with all international GSM communication standards with outstanding connectivity; optional use your own SIM card.  Latest technology and designed for marine use, robust and very compact. Built-in battery allows the device to continue to send information over a period of time if the power is cut. IPX6 water protected and withstands rough movements at sea. Approved by international insurance companies. CE and FCC certified *Save on insurance cost by having an approved positioning system installed onboard

Monitoring System

N2KView® Vessel Monitoring and Control Software Whether you are interested in monitoring your vessel's systems while underway or remotely from your home or office, Maretron's N2KView® software displays the information you need including engines, generators, tanks, rudders, navigation instruments, local weather, and much, much more. N2KView® is completely user-configurable and you are free to create different screens for your exact needs while easily switching from screen to screen for monitoring all your systems. Digital displays, analog gauges, graphic displays, warning lights, and bar graphs, all can be configured exactly how you want them to be. You can even set the operating limits and color bands for analog gauges so you know when things are within limits and when they are not. N2KView® is a comprehensive vessel monitoring and control software that goes beyond simple monitoring. With N2KView® you get additional functionality including alerts, video, control, and fuel management. The alerts functionality allows you to setup as many warnings and alarms as you need so you can be forewarned of potential problems. With alerts, you can relax knowing that the system is watching for smoke, CO, high bilge water, or anything else you deem important. N2KView® video capability allows you to add cameras as part of the monitoring system - for example a camera in the engine room - or the cameras can be used as part of the security system. The control functionality gives you the ability to manage your electrical system; for example, you can turn lights or pumps on or off directly from N2KView® and even tell if the lights or pumps are burned out and not working. Lastly, the fuel management function uses information from the fuel flow monitor, tank monitors, and GPS to provide advanced information like distance and time to empty as well as fuel rate and fuel economy. N2KView® software can run on your vessel's computer or on standalone products like the Maretron's TSM800C and TSM1330C displays, or the Maretron Black Box (MBB200C) vessel monitoring system. If you want to run N2KView® software on your vessel's computer, you will need either a Maretron USB100 or an IPG100, which are necessary to get sensor information from the NMEA 2000® network to the computer. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including NICKEL (METALLIC) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

BM100 Battery Monitoring Solution The BM100 is a complete system comprising SmartShunt and the veKonvert NMEA 2000 interface. It is part of Digital Yacht’s iSeaSense range of NMEA 2000 boat instruments. With this solution, your multi-function display becomes a sophisticated battery and energy management system. Features Digital Yacht’s BM100 battery monitoring system allows highly accurate DC voltage, current, and capacity measurements, enabling reliable monitoring of your boat’s battery and electrical system. Core to the system is the SmartShunt. It measures battery voltage and current. Based on these measurements, it intelligently calculates the battery’s state of charge and the time to depletion for the remaining charge. It also keeps track of historical data, such as the deepest discharge and average discharge current, as well as the number of charge and discharge cycles. The smart shunt can also monitor the voltage of a 2nd battery, typically dedicated to engine starting. The product is a collaboration between Victron Energy and Digital Yacht. The system utilizes Victron’s proprietary VE.Direct data connectivity as a source for the NMEA 2000 data. The BM100 is part of a wider group of products now introduced by Digital Yacht that bring NMEA 2000 connectivity to Victron systems using the VE.Direct interface. Victron solar panel controllers (MPPTs) and battery monitors can now also interconnect to NMEA 2000 via the veKonvert interface. Monitoring the battery with the BM100 will give important feedback to the user so that remedial measures can be taken when necessary. Doing this will extend battery life. There’s also an optional battery temperature sensor available. The BM100 can also integrate with Digital Yacht’s other NMEA 2000 and wireless instruments, which offer hybrid NMEA 2000 and wireless display options. NMEA 2000 Interface The system features an NMEA 2000 interface, so your navigation multi-function display or plotter can display all key parameters. Modern MFDs from leading manufacturers such as Garmin, Raymarine, Furuno, and Navico allow electrical battery data to be displayed via their NMEA 2000 interface. Alarms and alerts for low capacity and voltage can also be enabled. Bluetooth Interface The BM100 also has a standalone wireless Bluetooth interface, so your mobile phone or iPad can connect and display current, voltage, capacity, additional historical data, state of charge information, and time to go based on remaining battery capacity. Specifications: BM100 solution comes as a complete package with SmartShunt and the veKonvert NMEA 2000 interface Bluetooth interface for setup and detailed analysis, including charge/discharge cycles, state of charge, remaining capacity, and historical data Use your phone/tablet and your NMEA 2000 devices for battery monitoring and management 500A SmartShunt included for the main battery system Monitor the voltage of a separate (eg starter) battery Universal NMEA 2000 gateway for Victron’s popular range of smart battery monitors/SmartShunt using the VE.Direct interface (see compatibility list in the FAQ tab) Enables electrical and battery monitoring and management on compatible multi-function displays (Raymarine, Garmin, Navico, Furuno, etc) Provides battery voltage, charge/discharge current, state of charge, and time to depletion based on a sophisticated algorithm Easy installation, plug ‘n play connectivity, and self-powering from the NMEA 2000 bus Supports alerts generated by the SmartShunt Supports multiple SmartShunts for multi-battery systems Also compatible with other VE.Direct products such as solar MPPT controllers Vekonvert Is Compatible with the Following Victron Products: BMV -700, BMV -702, BMV -700H, BMV-712 Smart, BMV-710H Smart, BMV-712 Smart Rev2, SmartShunt 500A/50mV, SmartShunt 1000A/50mV, SmartShunt 2000A/50mV, and All MPPT Charge Controllers NOTE: veKonvert is not compatible with Victron Chargers and Inverters. It should also not be plugged into the VE.Direct interfaces of any Victron "Consumers" such as Multiplus, Quattro, Cerbo, etc.

TankAssure Tank Monitoring Sensor Kit (Sensor Kit Only) Introducing the Raritan TankAssure - a game-changing tank monitoring system that raises standards for marine vessels. Its easy-to-read display allows you to keep track of up to four tanks in one place making it an ultra reliable option. With its user-friendly interface and streamlined design this is truly next-level technology. Make sure a vessel has what it needs with the Raritan TankAssures unparalleled performance! TankAssure is a versatile solution that works with any polyethylene, fiberglass, or metal tank. Its submersible set-and-forget sensor makes installation easy while eliminating wire management issues. The low profile wall indicator ensures there are no protruding switches for an unobtrusive look on a vessel. TankAssures integrated Blocked Vent Detector technology guarantees efficient diagnosis of tanks along with effective odor control measures. With the Raritan App, you can monitor tank capacity remotely from anywhere aboard giving accurate readouts of its current level at all times. This feature allows users to stay informed about their vessel's fuel levels without having to physically check them manually. Features: THIS KIT IS THE SENSOR KIT ONLY Reliable electronic design perfected for any marine environment Compatible with any polyethylene, fiberglass, or metal tank Use it to monitor sewage, greywater, and freshwater Integrated Blocked Vent Detector technology helps in quickly diagnosing holding tank venting problems Seamless connection to the Raritan App, allowing you to monitor tank capacity from anywhere on a vessel Get an exact percentage readout for each tank capacity using the Raritan App N2K compatible with the 156300 NMEA2000 Adapter (sold separately) Up to 4 tanks can be monitored with 1 control panel (This 15610 Sensor Kit with 1 inch fitting, is required for each additional tank) Easy Installation The submersible set-and-forget sensor is designed to be dropped into either the top or side of the tanks; there is no need for external sensors or adhesives. This feature makes it incredibly convenient and easy to use. Say goodbye to complicated installation processes! The low-profile wall indicator boasts a sleek surface that eliminates any unsightly protruding switches. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize style and functionality in their home decor. Simplify installation and wire management with minimal wiring. This feature makes it easy to set up a system without worrying about complicated cables or messy tangles. Say goodbye to cluttered spaces and hello to a clean, organized setup! Ease of Use The electronic design is built to withstand any marine environment. Its flawless execution guarantees that it will operate smoothly no matter what conditions arise. Raritan's product is designed to work seamlessly with any polyethylene, fiberglass, or metal tank. Raritan made sure that compatibility wasn't an issue, so users could focus on what matters most: getting the job done right! This tool has proven itself to be a valuable asset in various industries where sewage, gray water, fresh water, diesel, and gasoline are present. Its versatility allows it to monitor all of these substances effectively, making it an essential part of any operations that require their presence. With its wide range of capabilities, this tool is truly indispensable for those who rely on accurate readings when dealing with such materials. The Blocked Vent Detector technology is a game changer for odor control and tank diagnosis. Its streamlined approach makes it easier than ever before to identify potential issues with the tanks quickly and efficiently. With this cutting-edge tool at hand, users can rest easy knowing that any problems will be swiftly addressed by experts who know what they're doing. The Raritan App offers a seamless connection that allows users to monitor tank capacity from any location on a vessel. This feature ensures constant awareness of the status of tanks and enables informed decision-making. With this technology at hand, managing resources has become effortless! Managing multiple storage facilities or tracking inventory levels can be a daunting task. But with the Raritan App, users have access to precise tank capacity readouts that make decision-making easier than ever before. This feature allows for real-time monitoring of capacities so that informed choices are always within reach. With this tool at hand, managers and analysts alike will find themselves empowered by data-driven insights they never had before. Don't let uncertainty cloud a judgment; rely instead on accurate information provided through the Raritan App! Low Power Consumption 12 or 24V DC Options Available NMEA2000 Adaptor - 12v Only Monitoring tank capacity has become more streamlined than ever before with TankAssure's cutting-edge dual monitoring system. With its user-friendly control panel and seamless integration into the Raritan App users can easily keep track of a vessel's tanks without any hassle whatsoever. This combination ensures that users receive accurate readouts on current capacities while also detecting potential issues such as full or empty tanks quickly, thus staying ahead in managing vessel operations effectively! So why wait? Choose TankAssure today for all the needs related to vessel management! WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

LCD-5 Monitor Full Color 5" Touchscreen GROCO's E-Valve LCD-5 is a touchscreen LCD monitor that allows wireless, helm-based remote control of GROCO E-Valve motorized seacocks. Use this customizable touchscreen display to monitor and control seacocks as well as the GROCO SSA flow monitor system. Seacock control functions are color-coded and include Exercise All, Close All, Open All, Lock, and Automatic. Monitor may be flush or bracket mounted (bracket is included). Features: Customize the vessel view screen with your boat and its component locations Exercise All function (shows moving valve handles) lets you operate all seacocks to prevent marine-growth build-up; orange icon indicates a valve operating improperly Close All function (red) closes all open E-valves Open All function (green) opens all E-valves that are not locked or are not marked Automatic Lock function (blue) can lock E-valves in either the open or closed position, both mechanically and electrically Automatic function (yellow) opens a specific E-valve when the connected equipment is turned on, and closes it when the connected equipment is turned off Dimensions: 4-3/8" H x 4-1/2"

The new year is in full swing meaning the boat show season began the week of January 9th. The big three across the USA are the Annapolis, Chicago, and Miami boat shows, all touting the latest and greatest in gadgets, trends, and equipment. The shows draw water sports enthusiasts from fishing, kiteboarding, diving, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, surfing, wakeboarding, and more. Engines and engine technology, water safety, and equipment seminars are great learning experiences for any boater.   During the third week of January, Dusseldorf, Germany, hosts the world's largest boat and water sports show, with more than 250,000 visitors attending from 70 countries. The nine-day event showcases equipment and seminars from 2,000 exhibitors.   The International Boat Builders' Exhibition and Conference, IBEX, held in Tampa each October, is the largest marine equipment trade show in North America. This conference is not open to the public.   More knowledge about boating is the universal focus of all conferences and exhibitions, and safety and security are the front row focus now more than ever. Two of the hottest trends for boating, smart lighting and remote monitoring are at the core foundation of peace of mind when it comes to safety and security.   Smart Lighting   Most boaters already know about trendy lighting such as mood lighting, (because you are always in a mood). Underwater lighting (old school); and lit up drink holders, so you can always find your drink, have some new gadgetry as well.   For 2020, Smart Lighting is operated from a multi-function display, or better yet, your Smart Phone. You can choose the right color hue from a color pallet that creates hundreds of color combinations. You can program the on/off displays, so your boat is fully lit as you walk down the dock.  Keep a toggle light switch on board in the event that remote systems have a problem. Battery powered lanterns and flashlights should always be on board.   Remote Monitoring   Whether out at sea or sitting in your easy chair at home, boaters want to be connected. New cloud-based remote monitoring systems let you keep a watchful eye on your boat from a monitor at home or an app on your phone. How fantastic is it to check your boat battery levels from the comfort of your home, or see if the bilge pump is doing its job?   Setting up a boat security system in the form of a geofence and camera system would alert you if an unwanted visitor decides to take your boat for a ride. For skippers with added luxuries and amenities such as air-conditioning (my dad is rolling over in his grave on this one) or refrigeration, you can turn on both as you are driving to the harbor.   Soft Decking   The flooring with soft decking is a hot item this year for the added comfort of our feet, knees, and almost all body parts. Consider that while comfortable boating shoes should be the norm, lots of visitors to your boat will be barefoot, wearing flip-flops, sandals, or shoes never meant for a slippery deck. In my sailing experience, I had one woman show up in spiked high heels, and another brought her daughter along who was sporting an ankle plaster cast. Both were not invited back on board.   Good quality soft decking can add to the life of your boat, and help prevent added injury when there is a fall. Soft-touch foam is a more comfortable alternative to carpeting or nonskid material. It is softer on bare feet and still provides nonskid. The foam also stays cool and dries more quickly. Foammaker Non-Slip Boat Flooring Decking Pad and 6mm Thickness EVA Foam Faux Teak Marine Mat are just a few of the decking items causing a lot of buzz at the boat shows.   Whether you are setting sail for the first time, or you are an old salt who could circumnavigate while blindfolded, visit one of the many boat shows happening during the first quarter of 2020. Think about the added knowledge you'll gain for fun on the water, fair winds, and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/   ____________________________________________________________________________   Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com  

Date: March 1, 2011 Field Notice Number:  311-C11 Models or Product Affected: Cruisair & Marine Air Systems   Immediate Action Is Required In Order To Avoid Damage To Your Vessel   Please see these two PDF's   311-C11_POE-Oil-With-CPVC-Plumbing   301-F10_Antifreeze Mandatory For Chillers

Image via Pixabay   As a veteran looking to buy a home, you may not realize all your options or the steps you should take. Just like any hopeful homeowner, it’s crucial that you devise a plan and educate yourself on the home-buying process. Courtesy of CLR Marine LLC, here's a guide to help you along the way so you make all the right moves.   Focus on Your Financial House No matter a person's veteran status, those looking to own a home must check their credit score and report to understand where their financial health currently stands. Look for areas of improvement, such as minimizing credit inquiries and keeping old accounts open rather than closing them to make your credit history work to your advantage. Consider looking into securing loan pre-approval, so you know how much house you can afford.   Explore Mortgage Options for Veterans Do you know which unique loan options you qualify for as a veteran? With a VA Purchase Loan, you can buy an existing or new home, condo or duplex without offering a down payment. The VA Energy Efficient Mortgage makes it easier to make energy-efficient upgrades to a residential property you wish to buy. Specifically, the loan option provides you with an extra $6,000 for upgrades such as solar heating and cooling systems, thermal or storm windows and heat pumps.   Another mortgage option available for hopeful veterans is a VA 30-year fixed mortgage loan, which locks in your interest rate and regular monthly payment over the entire life of your loan. You don’t have to pay any money down, but the loan does require a middle credit score of 680. No matter the loan you choose, familiarize yourself with estimated payments, APR, loan terms and the interest rate.   A particularly helpful resource for veterans interested in obtaining a mortgage is Veterans United Home Loans. In addition to offering home loans, the company’s specialists will also assign you a local Realtor as well as a client concierge. The team they build for you will help you with moving and all the little details that you may not think about, making your home buying and moving experiences as smooth as possible. From personal experience CLR Marine highly recommends Veterans United.   Search for Your Ideal Property If you already know the area where you want to live, look into homes currently available. Make a list of features and amenities your dream home must have and those you care little about. Besides the home itself, research the neighborhood where your desired property is located. This prevents you from moving into the home of your dreams only to live in the neighborhood of your nightmares. You should also understand the most opportune season for homebuyers so you time your purchase to your advantage.   Learn How to Close on a Home Do not wait until you're ready to close on a home before understanding what's involved in the closing process. For instance, do you know how to make a great offer a seller can't refuse? What if you have to negotiate? Get the rundown on closing costs, which may inflate the final purchase price more than you realize. Talk things over with an experienced home loan professional, preferably one familiar with helping veterans.   Prepare for Life as a Homeowner Regardless if a mortgage option requires a down payment from veteran applicants, consider setting aside money for standard home maintenance. You know you'll eventually need HVAC maintenance, and you may have problems with your roofing, plumbing or electrical systems. If you start saving up now before you move into your home, you don't have to scramble to find the funds to cover an emergency repair. Talk to friends and relatives who own a home to get an idea of typical home maintenance costs you should anticipate.   As someone who served in the military, you deserve to enjoy life in your own home. Hopefully, the above tips help you succeed in that mission. By Kelli Brewer info@deploycare.org