Survey Reveals Rising Prices, Strong Demand

RE/MAX Agent Survey Reveals Rising Prices, Strong Demand

Thinking of Selling your Home? Avoid these top mistakes homeowners make. . .

Inspection worries?

Subject:

Avoid regrets-Get a home inspection before you sign!

The home buying process is a lengthy one, and many buyers rush through or even forgo the home inspection. It’s important that you don’t make the same mistake! Professional home inspections can save you time and money, or even prevent you from making a disastrous deal. In case you’re not convinced, I’ve compiled a quick list of some serious home defects that can be found during a home inspection: Defect #1: Bad Foundation Unless you can negotiate a price reduction to cover cost, be prepared to walk away. Defect #2: Worn Roof Most likely it will need to be replaced. If the seller will not do so, negotiate a lower price. Defect #3: Termite Infestation The house is probably in need of expensive structural repairs. Unless the seller is willing to help pay, it’s probably not a good investment. Defect #4: Outdated Wiring This can be expensive to correct, and is a dangerous problem. Negotiate with the seller after getting an estimate from an electrician. Defect #5: Damaged Shower Pan Get an estimate from a contractor if you find water under the shower, and negotiate with the seller to cover costs. Protecting your investment, especially one as special as a new home, is crucial. An expert home inspection is often the most important step in securing that protection. More tips on home buying are available on my website. If you’d like to talk more about home inspections or any of your real estate questions, please call. I’d love to hear from you.

Is your home ready for winter?

As the weather outside continues to remind us, summer is in the past. You may be considering some repairs around the house to prepare it for the cold months of winter. On that note, I’ve compiled a list of fall maintenance ideas to help you get started!

Gutters and downspouts

Check to make sure they are working properly.

Fireplace and flue

Repair cracks, and crumbling mortar. Check and replace gasket on woodstove if necessary.

Siding

Inspect exterior caulking, and repair if necessary.

Storm windows and doors

Check for any cracked or broken glass. Tighten or repair loose or damaged frames and repaint if necessary. Replace broken, worn, or missing hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers, and check for broken or missing glazing.

Weather-stripping

Inspect and repair stripping around windows and doors.

Hot-water heating system

Lubricate pump and motor; bleed air from radiators or convectors.

Forced warm-air heating system

Vacuum heat exchanger surfaces; clean and lubricate blower blades and motor; check fan belt tension and adjust if necessary.

Gas burner

Clean burners and ports.

Oil burner

Lubricate fan and motor bearings.

Thermostat

Clean heat sensor, contact points, and contacts; check accuracy and replace if necessary.

Garage Doors

Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks; tighten screws.

Foundation

Check grading for proper slope away from foundation wall.

Trees

Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from roof.

Heating

For steam heating, check shut-off valve for leaks and drain lower water cut-off per manufacturer's instructions.

Roof

Inspect roof surface, flashing, and eaves; repair if necessary.

I hope you’ve found this list helpful. If you’re doing any repairs or preventative maintenance that requires the help of professionals, I’d be happy to give you some referrals. I’m also available to answer any of your real estate or home owning questions. You can also find more tips for homeowners on my website! Call if I can be of help to you.