Current and future homeowners looking for information and money saving tips on homeownership programs, home maintenance and green living need only visit one site, planohomesmart.org. The site is the Plano HomeSmart Knowledgebase, developed by the Plano Planning Department. It is a collection of Web links from local, state and federal organizations, leading to resources and tools covering three areas: Funding Sources, Energy Efficiency, and Recycling and Sustainability.

In the area of Funding Sources, residents will find information to help get the most for their dollar before they search for that perfect home. It will also aid in planning future remodeling projects, while revealing some interesting tax credits and incentives that might be overlooked otherwise.

Saving money over the long haul is the advantage of approaching a home with Energy Efficiency. This section will include tips on reducing high gas or electric bills. Little improvements can make a huge difference to the long-term financial enjoyment of a home.

Finally Recycling and Sustainability offer long-term savings for both the pocketbook and the environment. Recycling reduces the need for future landfills, saving taxpayers some burden. Learning to plant water-conserving landscapes allows everyone to have a healthy supply of drinking water and beautiful yard while saving money on the water bill.

Tips on green living and information on other ways to save our natural resources are in this section of the site.

“By collecting the research in one location, we help our residents stretch their time and dollar to create a home they can be proud of for their family, said Neighborhood Planner Monique Coleman.