Posts for Syndication

If you’re a first time homeowner – or it’s been years since you bought a home – it’s good to know what those crucial first tasks should be. In the excitement of closing, packing up and moving, you may easily forget to check important items off your to-do list when you first arrive. To help you, we’ve composed this list of all the tasks you should do when moving into your new home.

Do a final check

Did you have an agreement with the seller to include some items with the purchase of the home? The first thing you should do when you get the keys is to double check that all those items remain. This could include the washer/dryer, kitchen appliances or even curtains.

Change the locks

Now that you’ve got the final check squared away, your top priority should be to change the locks. Think about all the people who have been coming and going while your new house was on the market. Do you want any of them to still have unlimited access? Probably not. So be sure get those locks changed, and make spare sets of keys while you’re at it.

Clean

Even if the seller cleaned before packing up and moving out, you’ll want to do another pass before moving in all your belongings. Now is the best time to do a deep clean, since your house will never be this empty again. Steam clean the carpets and replace filters in the heating and air conditioning units, above the stove and in the kitchen and bathroom faucets. Wash the windows and buff and seal hardwood floors. Yes, it’s a lot of work. But think of how nice it will be to get settled into a home that is sparkling!

Test the alarms

If you home came with an alarm system already installed, have the account transferred to you and test all the alarms. Since you’re just getting to know your new neighborhood, it’s comforting to have that extra layer of protection in place. You should also go through the entire home and test the smoke alarms. Replace the batteries and any units that aren’t functioning properly.

Figure out your electrical panel

Locate the breaker box in your house, and when you have someone like an electrician to help you, figure out what each breaker goes to. It’s easier as a team so that one person can go from room to room while the other stands by the box and flips each switch. Write in marker next to each switch what area it corresponds to. And don’t forget to turn off the electricity when you’re changing out any broken lighting fixtures. To do a thorough inspection of your electrical system, you may hire a professional electrician penrith. A professional electrician can also provide other electrical services like electrical systems maintenance, rewiring, etc.

Find the main water valve

The last thing you want to think about when moving in is what you’ll do if you have a plumbing emergency. But wouldn’t you rather be prepared before it happens? Know where the main water valve is located and how to shut it off, should the need arise. In addition, contact an emergency plumbing specialist if you have plumbing emergencies.

Say hi to the neighbors

Lastly, take your first step toward becoming a member of the community by introducing yourself to your new neighbors. It will help make you feel settled sooner, and it’s always nice to see a familiar face or two around town.

Compliments of Virtual Results

There’s no denying that there is a certain appeal to being the very first owner of a new house. You get to make all the decisions and build a home that suits your specific needs. You also don’t have to deal with the problems that older homes can have, such as outdated wiring or leaky roofs.

If you’re in the market for a new construction home, there are some things you should be aware of before you sign on the dotted line. Being prepared from the beginning can help save you frustration down the line when things don’t go as planned. Here’s what you should ask when buying new construction as per the expert contractors from house inspections harrington park.

Can I see some of the other homes from this builder?

Find out the locations of other homes from this builder, and drive through the communities. Ask the builder if you can speak to a previous client, and see if those homeowners are satisfied with the finished product.

Who do I approach when I have questions during the build?

No building project goes exactly as planned, so know who to contact when the need arises. Usually there will be someone overseeing the daily operations for the builder who will field all your questions. Know when and how to contact them.

What are the long-term plans for the neighborhood?

If you’re one of the first owners to move into the neighborhood, you may have to deal with construction noise for quite awhile. You should also find out how many more houses are planned for construction. There’s always a chance that a builder can lose funding and hand over operations to another builder, which could affect your property values over time.

Are there any financial incentives?

Some builders provide financial incentives, such as offering a lower interest rate if you use their preferred lender or title company. Others may be willing to negotiate for certain upgrades, or offer an extended rate lock should construction take longer than planned.

Which features are standard, and which are upgrades?

If you’ve toured the model home, you’re seeing a home that has been outfitted with available upgrades. Find out which features are standard and which are upgrades, which should be detailed in a specifications sheet. Your builders should also use lifting gear products to make their jobs easier.

Can I make changes once building has started?

Does your builder allow changes once construction has started? Some do not allow changes, and if you’re prone to changing your mind it might be beneficial to use a builder who is more flexible.

What are the HOA rules and regulations?

Find out right away what types of guidelines the Homeowner’s Association has outlined, and be aware of when you’re required to begin paying HOA dues.

Does the home come with a warranty?

Most builders will provide warranties for the work they do, as well as warranties for appliances like the washer and dryer. Make sure you know what these are, so you know what is and isn’t covered and how long the coverage lasts.

How long does it take to build the home?

Finally, ask the builder how long it will take to build your home, and what they do if that deadline is not met. Of course, you’ll need to be flexible to allow for delays caused by things like the weather. But knowing your builder has a reputation for completing projects on time is great for your peace of mind.

Compliments of Virtual Results

There’s no two ways around it – a bathroom can make or break a house sale. It doesn’t matter how great the rest of your house looks, if the bathroom is ugly, outdated or dirty, it can really turn-off a would-be buyer.

If you’re getting ready to sell your home, get help from an expert for your bathroom renovation act to make a good impression.

Clean, clean, clean

It may not be a fun job, but now is the time to clean the bathroom from top to bottom. And don’t skip all the nooks and crannies where mold can camp out. Get out your bleach and toothbrush and get to work until that bathroom shines. This includes removing soap scum and residue from showerheads and doors.

Remove all cleaning products

Now that the bathroom is sparkling, remove all evidence of the cleaning that was involved. Store any cleaning products under the sink or in another room like the kitchen or laundry room. This includes the toilet brush and plunger. While you’re at it, take out the bath mat and the trashcan. You want your bathroom to have a clean and pristine appearance.

Stash the personal stuff

Buyers do not want to see evidence of your personal life in what could be their new bathroom. One of the first things you should do when staging your bathroom is to hide all of your personal belongings. This includes toothbrushes, toiletries, cosmetics, and products in your shower. You should also remove the bathroom scale – nobody needs a reminder of a failed diet when looking at your home.

Make needed repairs

Has that bathroom faucet been leaking? You may have gotten used to it, but that’s something a buyer will notice. Your residential plumbing must be in good condition when you show your home to potential buyers. Read this article to know how many faucets to leave dripping. Be sure to repair or replace all leaking faucets, and call drain cleaning services if necessary. If you’re having issues with the septic or sewer systems, contact a sewer lateral replacement service. If you have peeling paint or the walls are looking tired, repaint in a bright, neutral color. You should also replace light bulbs with 100-watt bulbs to make the bathroom appear bigger and brighter.

Try to periodically clean the pipes and vanity, to prevent leaks or mold cause by the same, San Diego Plumbers can do an inspection and check what is necessary.

Invest in luxurious upgrades

Buyers will pay more for a bathroom that feels new and luxurious. So think about recreating a spa experience in your home. Buy new, fluffy towels in a neutral color. Replace cabinet hardware and towel bars with something more contemporary. Get a new shower curtain, preferably in white. Consider adding an orchid or houseplant in a simple vase to the counter. If you have the money, it also makes sense to swap out your vanity for something more modern. Go with a cabinet made of quality materials and keep it simple.

Create a relaxing ambience

Although you don’t want to display too many items in your bathroom, as it will make it appear smaller, a few tasteful additions can be helpful. Think about rolling towels and placing them in a basket, or arranging a stack of beautiful scented soaps next to the sink. Hang a fluffy white robe on the back of the door. Hang a picture or two of relaxing, tranquil environments like the beach or a mountain stream. At Bracknell bath showroom you can gather a lot of ideas for your own bathroom.

The bottom line is, you don’t need to spend a ton of money on a total bathroom overhaul when you’re selling. Simply invest the time in cleaning and make smart choices about staging, and your bathroom will make a good impression on buyers.

Compliments of Virtual Results

Does your home have a leaky roof and requires a roof repair service? Are the bathrooms outdated? Is it time to replace the furnace? If your home has issues, and you’re getting ready to sell, you may be dreading the repairs you have to make before putting it on the market. But what if you were to sell it as is? Meaning – what if you decide to simply put your home up for sale in its current condition, problems and all? If this sounds intriguing, read on to find out what to expect.

Understand the trade-offs

Maybe you don’t have the time or money to put into a long and costly renovation. It’s understandable. But you do need to know what the trade offs will be. If you would need to put several thousand dollars – or more – into fixing the roof or renovating a bathroom, you should expect to knock the equivalent off the price of the home.

In addition, some lenders require that homes meet minimum requirements for health and safety standards. If your home does not meet them, than anyone needing a mortgage will not be a prospective buyer. You’ll be limiting the pool of buyers to only those who can pay cash.

Make the required disclosures

When selling a home as is, you need to be upfront about all the known problems with your home. In fact, you are legally required to make those disclosures, which will vary from state to state. The problems will be discovered when the buyer completes a house inspection, so be sure that all contracts clearly state the property is being sold in as is condition.

Know how to handle low offers or requests for repairs

Since an as is property is most likely going to appeal to investors looking to renovate and flip or rent the home, be prepared to get some lowball offers. Remember – investors will want to make a profit from their efforts. Don’t take it personally. Know what your lowest price is and be prepared to counter.

Also, if a house inspection uncovers issues that were not initially disclosed, a buyer may make requests for repairs or compensation. If you do not agree to them, they are allowed to walk away and have their deposit returned. You’ll then be required to disclose those additional issues discovered during the inspection to any new buyers that make an offer.

Keep the house clean

While you may not want to pour money into professionally staging your as is home, you should at the very least keep it clean and neat. This includes maintaining the yard and keeping the home ready for viewings. It will make a better overall impression and increase your chances of getting an offer you feel comfortable accepting.

While selling an as is home is not a piece of cake, it isn’t an insurmountable challenge. By knowing what to expect before you begin the process, you can sell your home for a price that both you and the buyer can be happy about.

Compliments of Virtual Results

Unless you’re planning to pay all cash, if you’re shopping for a home then it means you’re also shopping for a mortgage. Depending on your personal situation, some mortgages could be a better fit for you than others. By checking a trusted site like https://sunnyloansuk.co.uk/ to know which loan is the best choice, will lead you to save money down the line, so it’s important to be knowledgeable about what’s available. With that in mind, let’s take a look at four of the most common types of home loans.

Conventional Loan

As you can probably tell by its name, a conventional loan is the most common type of home loan. A conventional loan generally offers the best rates and terms and the lowest monthly payments. This type of mortgage has fewer requirements because it is not part of a government program, like the other loans on this list. Since it represents a greater risk, lenders usually require that borrowers make a sizeable down payment, have a steady income and a good credit score. Conventional loans are further explained here.

Who it’s for:

Conventional loans are a great choice for those looking for investment property loans, as they would have saved up the money for the down payment and met the other requirements outlined by the lender. If you find you’re in this position, be sure to shop around for your loan, as rates and fees can vary widely by lender.

FHA Loan

FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration, which is managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These types of loans are insured by the government should a buyer default on the mortgage. The down payment for an FHA loan is 3.5 percent, and borrowers with less-than-perfect credit may still qualify. However, you will be required to purchase mortgage insurance, which will increase the overall cost of the home.

Who it’s for:

FHA loans aren’t just for first time homebuyers. Anyone can take advantage of this loan program, and it’s great for those who don’t have a sizeable down payment saved or who have lower credit scores.

USDA Loan

USDA loans are available for buyers who live in rural areas. These loans are financed entirely by the government, which means no down payment is required. USDA loans also offer lower interest rates, but buyers will be required to purchase mortgage insurance, like with an FHA loan.

Who it’s for:

USDA loans are for properties in eligible rural areas, and borrowers must meet certain guidelines for their household income.

VA Loan

Finally, Veterans Affairs (VA) loans are available for those who have served in the military. Borrowers can secure these loans with no down payment and unlike FHA and USDA loans no mortgage insurance is required. There are strict guidelines about the type of home that can be purchased, and it must be your primary residence.

Who it’s for:

Veterans must meet minimum requirements for length of service in order to qualify for a VA loan. Spouses of those who died during service may also qualify. A certificate of eligibility will be required, although in some cases the lender can secure it for you.

If you’d like to get further information, check the Home Equity Line of Credit | HELOC Rates | Atlantic Union Bank.

Compliments of Virtual Results

If you’ve got a big move ahead of you, there are certain obvious expenses that you know to expect. These include hiring a moving company, renting a truck and purchasing packing supplies. Unfortunately, many people who move end up paying more in the end because of costs they didn’t anticipate. Here’s a look at some of the unexpected expenses you may incur during your big move.

Short-term storage and housing

Sometimes moves take longer than expected. For example, your closing date could be delayed. If this happens, you may need to put your belongings into short-term storage. Not only will you incur the cost of the storage unit, you may also ending paying again for a moving truck, if you are moving your items yourself.  Delays could also mean staying in a hotel room for a few days or a few weeks.

Replacement items

Most people end up throwing out or donating items that can be difficult to move – especially perishables like food and spices. While it may seem like a no-brainer to just re-purchase an item that only costs a few dollars, that money can add up if you are replacing dozens of items. Be smart about what you keep and what you throw away.

Increased insurance prices

If you’re moving more than a neighborhood or two away, you could see an increase in your auto insurance. Rates are based on data specific to the area where you live which could increase your costs by up to 50 percent. And if you move to another state, the minimum requirements for coverage could drive up the cost of your premium.

Your health insurance costs could also increase, particularly if moving to another state. If it looks like your premiums will increase substantially, it would be wise to do some comparison-shopping once you’ve settled in.

Contract penalties

Do you belong to a gym or have some other kind of annual membership? You should look closely at your contract before you cancel. Some memberships impose fees should you cancel early – although there may be loopholes for events like moving. Be sure to check before absorbing those fines, and be prepared to show documentation of your move, like the purchase agreement.

Unreturned security deposits

Are you moving into a house from a rental? Then don’t forget about your security deposit. Be sure to provide a forwarding address to your landlord, and be clear about what you can be charged for. Landlords are generally not allowed to subtract costs for normal wear and tear, and must return your deposit within a certain time frame, usually by 60 days.

Additional moving fees

Finally, be clear about any other expenses that might be associated with your move. This could include fees the moving company charges for bulky items like pianos or pools tables. You may also be charged extra if the movers have to travel more than 75 feet from the truck to your front door, or move boxes and furniture up or down more than one flight of stairs. Be sure to read the fine print and understand everything you may be charged for.

While it’s impossible to anticipate every expense you’ll incur with your move, you can soften the blow by knowing what some of the more common unexpected expenses are.  If you’re prepared, you may even find yourself with enough spare change to splurge on a nice meal out during those first chaotic days in your new home.

Compliments of Virtual Results

Whether you’re looking for a new home or selling your current one, it’s good to know whether or not the neighborhood is dog friendly. If you’re buying, you’ll want the peace of mind knowing there are amenities that cater to your best friend. If you’re selling, you can tout all the ways your community is great for buyers with pets. Ask yourself these questions to determine whether or not your neighborhood is up to snuff.

Are there sidewalks?

It might not occur to you at first, but sidewalks are a great benefit to dog owners. Think about it – if you walk your dog in the morning and evening, isn’t it better to walk on the sidewalk than in the street? Many newer subdivisions don’t have sidewalks, making it more difficult and possibly even dangerous to walk a dog regularly.

Is there a dog park nearby?

Obviously, having a dog park nearby signals that your neighborhood is open to residents with dogs. But take a closer look. How do the dogs at the park behave? Are the owners engaged with them, or letting them run unsupervised? Do the dogs that are there seem well socialized? Are fights breaking out, or do the dogs play together well?

How many vets, groomers or pet stores are in the neighborhood?

If your neighborhood is one that cares about its pets, it’s going to have services nearby. How many vets are in the community? What kind of reviews have they received online? Are there pet stores nearby? If so, what kind? Are they all big-box retailers, or are there some smaller, mom-and-pop shops, too? Will you have easy access to a local groomer? Is the groomer well liked by local dog owners?

Are there pet waste stations for dog walkers?

Here’s another good indicator that your neighborhood is dog friendly – common walkways are equipped with pet waste stations. These stations will include a supply of small plastic bags, making it easy for walkers to curb their dogs. Dog waste is considered an environmental pollutant. The presence of these stations shows that not only do the neighbors care about their pets; they also care about each other’s property and keeping it clean.

Are local restaurants and stores welcoming?

Nothing beats an evening out for a delicious local dinner – unless you can bring your dog along, too. How many restaurants in the neighborhood welcome dogs to their patios or outdoor seating areas? Do they offer water or snacks for your dog? Are the local stores welcoming to leashed dogs and their owners?

Does the city offer low cost spay and neuter programs?

Finally, take a look to see if the city offers low cost or subsidized spay and neuter programs for low income residents. This shows a dedication to the health and safety of the entire city’s pet population, no matter their owner’s ability to pay for what may be costly procedures.

When buying or selling, it’s a great idea to think about just how dog friendly your neighborhood is. Because in the end, most people consider their dogs to be members of the family, and who wouldn’t want to make choices that are in their best interest?

Compliments of Virtual Results

If you’re preparing to sell, or you’ve recently purchased a new home, you may find yourself with a list of repairs you need to make. Chances are, some of those repairs will require expert skills that you just don’t have. When that happens, it’s time to hire a contractor. But how do you find the best one for the job?

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while you’re searching for a professional who will get the job done right.

Get referrals from friends and family

The best place to start when you need to hire a contractor is with referrals from friends and family. If anyone you know has recently completed renovations on their home, then find out which contractor they hired and how they felt about the process and finished product.

Research the contractor

Once you’ve made a list of a few potential contractors, it’s time to do some research. Find out how long they’ve been in business and whether or not they are licensed and insured. Check online sites like Houzz and Yelp for reviews from previous customers. Are most of their reviews positive? You can also contact the Better Business Bureau and the local building inspector’s office for any complaints that have been lodged against them. Finally, you may consider using the services of companies like https://checkr.com/background-check to conduct a background check on your chosen contractor.

Interview each candidate

Once you’ve narrowed your choices, you should make calls to each potential contractor and interview them. Good questions to ask contractors include:

• How many projects like this have you completed recently?
• Will I need a permit?
• Can you supply me with a list of references?
• Do you have the proper insurance?
• Do you use subcontractors for any of the work? Who are they?
• How many other projects will you have going on at the same time?
• How long does a project like mine usually take to complete?

As you chat with the contractors, you’ll see how well you can communicate and how comfortable you feel with them.

Get estimates

It’s now time to get estimates for your project from each contractor. Although they will likely want to just offer a bottom line price, ask for an itemized bid so you can see exactly what they will be charging you for. This will make it easier to compare each bid. It will also help should the details or scope of the project change down the line.

When it comes to choosing the bid, keep in mind that the cheapest one is not necessarily the best. You may end up spending more money later to fix work that was not done properly the first time. Also find out what type of payment schedule they require. Be wary of anyone who asks for the full amount up front, as they may be having financial difficulties or are worried you’ll refuse to pay once you see the work they do.

Get everything in writing

Once you’ve chosen a contractor based on the information above, you should get everything in writing before the work commences. Make sure the contractor offers construction surety bonds. This includes how long the work should take, the total cost, the payment schedule and how additional costs will be handled.

Compliments of Virtual Results

Sure, touting that recent kitchen or bathroom renovation will surely attract the attention of potential buyers. But are there other qualities about your home that might entice someone to take a closer look? Here are some selling points that many sellers frequently forget to mention. Don’t be one of them!

Energy efficiency

Purchasing a home is a huge expense. Many buyers will be attracted to homes that feature energy efficient upgrades that will save them money on their utility costs over time. If you have energy efficient appliances, dual pane widows, new insulation or LED lights in your home, be sure to use that information in your listing.

Green features

In addition to energy efficiency, some buyers will be looking for homes that have environmentally friendly features. These could include recycled or sustainable building materials, an organic garden or a backyard composting station.

Chemical-free home maintenance

Buyers with children or pets may have a heightened sense of awareness about what types of cleaning products they use in their home. Many people today prefer to use organic or chemical-free cleaning solutions on floors and countertops, and if you’ve adopted the same methods, you should let buyers know. This also includes touting any hypoallergenic HVAC or air filtration systems you have in place. In addition, make sure to have regular air conditioning repair and maintenance with the help of professional air conditioning services.

Recent upgrades

While upgrades to the kitchen and bathroom can make a deal, there are other upgrades you shouldn’t fail to mention. Have you recently repaved the driveway or installed a new residential garage door? Has the roof been repaired or replaced? Have you thought about artificial turf maintenance? Did you turn the attic into a usable living space? Have you put in new carpet or flooring? These all deserve to be mentioned in your marketing materials.

Storage space

While it could be argued that Americans have too much stuff, you can be sure most people won’t be letting it go anytime soon. Most buyers place a premium on ample storage space, so you should emphasize it. This includes walk-in closets, a pantry in the kitchen, a storage system in the garage or any built-in shelves or cabinets around the house.

Senior features

Buying a home is a huge undertaking, and some buyers know that they would rather not have to do it again. If there are features that would appeal to buyers looking for a home for the rest of their lives, you should let them know. This could include a lack of stairs, extra-wide hallways, a front door level with the sidewalk, low-maintenance landscaping or even a mother-in-law unit that could double as a space for a caretaker.

Nearby amenities

Lastly, is your home located near amenities like a supermarket, restaurants, or even a state or national park?  Is there a gym that is within walking distance? A popular performance venue just down the road? A commercial district that features every big-box store anyone would ever want to visit? These are all selling points that could appeal to the future tenant of your home.

The bottom line is – if you’re getting ready to sell, don’t overlook some of the smaller details of your home. It could be just the thing that attracts the perfect buyer.

Compliments of Virtual Results

You did it! You packed up all your belongings, loaded them onto a truck, and unloaded them into your new house. That is no easy feat. But the work isn’t quite over yet.

If you’re staring at piles of boxes and just can’t imagine how you will ever get organized and settled in, follow these strategies for unpacking. You’ll be feeling right at home in no time!

Start with the essentials

If you were smart, you packed up a couple of boxes of essentials and loaded them on the truck last, or took them with you in the car or on the plane. This includes all the basics you’ll need in the first few days, such as toiletries, the coffee maker and bedding. These items will get you through those first couple of nights, where chaos seems to reign. Your essentials will make sure that you are fed, clothed, clean and rested. Which is good considering how much focus and energy you’ll need to tackle the rest of the house.

Set up the beds

Once you’ve gotten your essentials unpacked, set up the beds for each family member. You’re going to need a place to sleep right away, and having a comfortable and familiar bed to slip into after a long day will help keep you and your family in good spirits. It will also help kids to become adjusted to their new home, and they can begin settling into their new rooms while you unpack the rest of the house.

Create a sanctuary

Next, focus on one space or room that you can quickly get set up and make functional. Depending on your needs this could be a living room, dining room or office space. Paint, organize the furniture and do a little decorating. Display a family photo or two. Get the television or stereo set up. By creating a sanctuary, you give yourself a tiny space to retreat from the chaos. Watch a movie, listen to some music or take a nap.

Take it room by room

You’ve now gotten to the point where you can focus on unpacking the rest of the house. Instead of doing a little bit in each room, focus on one room before moving to the next. Consider unpacking in this order:

• Kitchen – Get all the essentials out and in order. Nothing beats being able to cook at home after a long moving process. The kitchen is also a great place for the family to congregate while the rest of the house is in progress.
• Bathrooms – Get at least one bathroom up and running. Clean and unpack all your toiletries.
• Living room, dining room, bedrooms, and office – Once the kitchen and bathrooms are ready, you can begin unpacking all your other rooms. By this point you should be feeling a little less stressed and can continue moving in and getting settled at a more leisurely pace.

Get to know the neighborhood

The best way to start feeling at home is to connect with the community. Get out and explore! Take walks, visit the local park, check out your new grocery store and introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Welcome home!

Compliments of Virtual Results