December 2004

A chimney has two important functions. It brings fresh air to the fire in the fireplace and it provides an escape for smoke and harmful gases. Learn how your chimney works, the maintenance you need to keep your chimney working properly and how to avoid chimney fires.

 

November 2004

More than 80 percent of all houses sold are sold through a real estate professional and the number is growing. Why? Research shows that more than half the homebuyers find out about a house through their Realtor and not through an advertisement. Another reason is that homes sold through a Realtor put more money in the pocket of the seller.
 

October 2004

While most home-maintenance projects will save you money over time, few will produce an immediate effect of measurable return. Maintaining your home's 'energy envelope' is one. Floors, walls, ceilings and exterior doors and windows make up the energy envelope of your home. Properly maintained, this envelope will increase your comfort level.
 

September 2004

Closing is a complex process, so appoint yourself manager of the close. Organize yourself by setting up a file, or a filing system. If you don't already have a daily organizer, use a small notebook to keep track of daily to-do lists. Start a log and record every contact regarding the home. If a notice arrives in the mail, jot it down. If you send out a document, make a note.
 

August 2004

Your new home is the single largest and most important investment you will probably make in your lifetime. You'll enjoy pride in ownership as well as the very real benefits of ownership at tax time. Once you've unpacked and settled in, you'll want to establish a maintenance schedule for routine upkeep. Your home will thank you for it.
 

July 2004

Sometimes, even the most severe personal budget cuts don't help build your cash reserves as quickly as you'd like, and the savings process is discouraging. While it is important to be mindful of your daily expenses, there are other ways you can increase your funds for a down payment.

 

June 2004

One of the most damaging elements to your home is water. Water that pours from your roof and stands around the foundation can quickly impact its condition.


 

May 2004

Most homebuyers who already own a home have enough equity in the property for a down payment on the new one. It works out best if the first home sells before the purchase of the second one. In the event this doesn't happen, a 'bridge loan' or 'bridge financing' is used.

 

April 2004

Just about every home seller in the U. S. must provide potential buyers with a Disclosure of Property Condition Form. Owners who are selling houses built prior to 1978 are required to produce a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form as well.

 

March 2004

The Insurance Information Institute reports that many American home owners do not know what criteria were used to establish the coverage in their policies. In fact, many not only lack financial protection for the equity in their homes, but for personal property as well.

 

February 2004

Home improvement is something you should not ignore. By continuously updating and repairing, you prevent the big unpleasant surprises and you get to live in a nicer home. When it's time to sell, you'll be way ahead of the game.

 

January 2004

Your home is your sanctuary - a safe haven. But accidents can happen to even the most careful homeowner. Fire extinguishers can and do save lives. Are you prepared with appropriate fire extinguishers and do you know how to use them properly?