Tag Archives: Home Maintenance

Don’t Ignore Adjustable Rate Mortgages

ARM“After everything that happened in the Market a few years ago, most people decided that ARMs (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) were just plain bad.  That isn’t always the case.  Don’t write them off until you’ve talked to a lender about all the options available to you.  Depending on your situation it might just make sense.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

94% of purchasers last year opted for a fixed-rate mortgage at some of the lowest rates in home buying history. Yet, some of them will pay more in interest than necessary based on the time they’ll own the home.

If a person only plans to be in the home a few years, the adjustable-rate can offer significant savings.

Not only is the interest rate on the adjustable-rate lower than the fixed in the initial period, amortization on a lower interest rate amortizes faster than a higher interest rate.

In the example shown below, a $200,000 mortgage for 30 years is compared using a 4.25% fixed-rate to a 3.25% 5/1 FHA adjustable rate. The first five years of the ARM generates a $113.47 a month savings which accumulates to $6,808.20. In addition, due to faster amortization on lower interest rate loans, the unpaid balance at the end of five years will be $3,001 lower on the ARM for a total savings of $9,801.

Assuming the adjustable-rate mortgage was to escalate the maximum allowed at each period, the breakeven would occur in 8 years and 6 months. If a person were to sell the home prior to this point, the ARM would provide a lower cost of housing for the homeowner.

For some people, the uncertainty of how the interest rate may change is not acceptable. On the other hand, for the risk tolerant individual who may be more confident in financial matters or who may know when they’ll be moving next, the ARM can be a smart choice.

To make projections using your individual numbers, see the Adjustable Rate Comparison.

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8 Spring Maintenance Projects To Save Money

“Now that the weather is finally starting to turn to Spring, it’s time to take a look around and see what might need to be done around your home.  Most of the time we think about Spring Cleaning, but equally important is Spring Maintenance.  Now is the perfect time to look for those things that went unnoticed because we were cocooning all Winter.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

When we talk about money-saving home maintenance projects, we often focus on winter. After all, heating a home is expensive, and we’ll do whatever we can to reduce the winter costs.

But many projects better suited for warmer weather can save you money, too. Here are eight projects to tackle this spring:

1. Clean the refrigerator and air conditioner coils. Your fridge and air conditioner work in nearly the same way – by exchanging heat through a system of coils. When those coils are dirty and dusty, they can’t exchange heat as efficiently, so the system has to run harder and longer to have the same cooling effect.

Luckily, cleaning these coils is simple. Just take a vacuum hose to the coils on the back of your fridge. For an outside air conditioner unit, you’ll need to disassemble the casing (making sure the power to the unit is off first), and clean using canned air and/or a stiff brush and spray bottle.

2. Schedule routine heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance. Yes, it costs money to get an HVAC professional to look over your system. But routine maintenance costs much less than major fixes down the road. So call and schedule your HVAC maintenance now. To save even more, check websites such as Groupon, Amazon Local and Angie’s List for deals with local HVAC companies.

3. Inspect and repair your roof. Spring is the time to get out on the roof to check for ice, hail or water damage from winter. Repairing minor damage can be a quick do-it-yourself fix, and staying on top of your roof’s condition (no pun intended) can save you money by avoiding water damage later on.

4. Clean gutters. This can be a Saturday-long spring chore for many, but it’s important, especially if you live in an area with April showers.

Water doesn’t properly pass through clogged gutters. And that means more water gets near the foundation of your home. This may not cause immediate problems, but over time, too much water near the foundation can cause damage and weakening, which are expensive problems to fix later.

5. Clean the dryer vent. Just like your refrigerator doesn’t work properly with dusty coils, your dryer is less efficient with a lint-filled vent. Even if you clean the lint trap before every load of laundry, you’ll still get some lint in the vent hose, which builds up over time.

To clean the vent, just remove the vent hose from the back of the dryer and vacuum it well. Then, remove the vent cover on the outside of your home, and vacuum it from that side, too.

6. Check the washing machine hoses. Over time, washing machine hoses can crack, which can cause leaks. Sometimes, these inconspicuous leaks go on for weeks or months unnoticed, usually because the washer is pushed back into a corner. This can cause mold problems, water damage and more.

So while you’ve got the dryer pulled out to clean the vent, pull out the washer, too. Check that the hoses are still flexible, and they show no signs of cracking. If they do look worn or cracked, just replace them. It’s an easy fix!

7. Re-caulk windows and doors. You might have caulked your doors and windows before the winter chill set in. Unfortunately, even the best caulk can harden, crack and shrink when it’s cold outside.

So check your windows and doors, and replace as needed. Keeping the hot air out during the summer is just as important as keeping it in during the winter.

8. Plant trees in strategic locations. As you think about landscaping this spring, consider planting a new tree or two. Mother Nature will certainly thank you, and your heating and cooling bills might, too.

If your house gets hit with a lot of sun during the day – which causes the inside to heat up – plant a fast-growing deciduous tree or two on the west, east or northwest side of your home for cooling shade.

And if you noticed wind whistling through the cracks of your home over the winter, an evergreen windbreak on the windiest side of your home might do the trick and block the wind.

Before you plant, make sure you understand how large a tree will grow when it reaches maturity, so you avoid potential costly issues from a tree planted too close to your home.

By Abby Hayes, 

Originally published in US News & World Report – Money

Top 10 Kitchen Trends of 2014

d7076940-b474-11e3-bdba-19c81b89fedf_1-KBIS_Thermador-Freedom-Kitchen“Kitchen remodels are some of the best investments that you can make in any home. Each year there are new ideas that appear around technology and materials.  Las Vegas, Nevada is home to the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry show, and here are some notes from a regular contributor of BobVila.com that we think you will find very interesting.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

This year is definitely the year for your kitchen! Over the past few years the trend of modernizing your kitchen to fit your lifestyle has been apparent with technology-driven appliances and innovative surfaces and materials. I traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada in February for the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry show (KBIS). Here are 10 wonderful highlights of the show and how your kitchen still rules the home.

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1. Modern kitchen innovation that gives a hint of the past:

There has been a re-emergence in kitchen design to bring back old world finishes and blend them with modern innovation. Modern countertops in granite, marble and solid surfacing can take on a vintage appeal with beveled edges and details that went away with handcrafted cabinetry years ago. Kitchen faucets that resemble ‘hand-forged sentiments of early 20th century metalworkers, Artesso™kitchen faucets blend traditional design with industrial chic inspiration’ was gorgeous to see from Brizo faucets. It was also nice to see that kitchen manufacturers haven’t forgotten that historic details in the kitchen still have a place in our homes.

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2. Commercial-quality kitchen amenities in your humble abode:

While we all love the comfort of quaint homes, do you sometimes prefer the industrial feel of a commercial kitchen? At KBIS, you could see a definite trend of kitchen manufacturers appealing to both aesthetics. Blanco sinks features their Quatrus R15 stainless steel sink that offers a revolutionary sleek appeal while still enabling homeowners to wash it easily. Turn your kitchen into that commercial kitchen you always wanted with amenities that show off your inner culinary chef .

3. Kitchen accessories aren’t just for show anymore:

Years ago, kitchen accessories played a minor role in function and were instead meant to compliment the sink, faucet or cabinetry of the kitchen. Today, kitchen brands are realizing that homeowners want form, function, and beauty all wrapped up into one. Accessories such as colanders and cutting boards can now fit seamlessly into the sink to help you drain or cut your favorite vegetables. There is no longer a reason to wonder, “What does that do?” in your modern kitchen.

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4. Organize your kitchen drawers like never before:

Drawers are commonly used to separate items like spices and utensils. But did you know you can also use your drawers to store bread in their very own customized bread boxes? There was a big representation of brands such as Poggenpohl’s drawer accessories that included cutlery trays, spice racks, knife blocks, bread drawers and aluminum foil holders, among other things. Instead of organizing just a few items in your kitchen, organize your kitchen drawers around the way you and your family use the kitchen.

5. Lighting your kitchen in eco-friendly ways:

Just like the evolution of your home, lighting plays an integral role in ensuring your kitchen experience is safe, enjoyable, and helpful for all your kitchen activities. While traditional lighting fixtures such as pendants and under cabinet lights aren’t new – the use of eco-friendly LED lighting inside of cabinets, drawers, and below the base cabinets is proving to be more helpful to the culinary enthusiast. Whether you have your hands full and don’t have time to reach a light, or you’re looking to add more illumination to your kitchen’s darkest nooks, LED lit cabinetry and drawers may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Decorative Tile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. Decorative tile becomes the showstopper over the appliances:

There used to be a time when you walked into a kitchen and all eyes went to the appliances. While appliances are still a major opportunity to wow guests, decorative tile is the perfect crowning glory to a dynamic kitchen. This year, tile manufacturers are holding nothing back and Walker Zanger has always been known for their innovative and iconic tile design styles. This Chelsea Art Glass backsplash is the “Epitome of glass craftsmanship, offering a collection of stunning Tiffany-inspired mosaics created from sheets of colorful, marbleized glass. The glass sheets are hand-cut and blended to create 12 unique shades”. If you’re looking for a way to add pizazz to your kitchen, look to decorative tile to add a glamorous personality to the heart of your home.

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7. Saving money in the kitchen is easier than ever

While we all enjoy splurging on our home improvements, saving money on your kitchen renovation is essential. While there was an enormous representation of high-end remodeling ideas at KBIS, there was also a nice contrast of kitchen brands that understood that homeowners like to save money too. I interviewed fixture manufacturer Danze, whose high-quality kitchen faucets are designed save consumers money. They think, “…Your kitchen faucet should do more than just wash vegetables. It should nourish your eye for great design, too. We offer an appetizing array of unique kitchen faucets, bar and convenience faucets and pot fillers. With plenty of smart styles to reflect your personal taste.”

8. Filtered water for your family, delivered in a gorgeous way

Over the years water filtration has become more important as water becomes a more precious resource. Kitchen plumbing manufacturers are finding a way to eliminate the clunky add-on water filter on the outside of your faucet, or under your sink. Brands like ROHL’s Perrin & Rowe are using, “… Filtration featuring Triflow® Technology. This innovative faucet series provides beauty and functionality in one space-saving design. Filtration happens right in the faucet and eliminates the need for an under- the-counter system. Enjoy hot, cold and filtered water while saving money and protecting the environment’”.

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9. Affordable countertop surfaces that give the look of luxury

Countertops can be a very expensive portion of your kitchen entourage. Lucky for you there are several kitchen countertop manufacturers that understand homeowners want the look of granite, stone, and marble without the hefty price tag.  Formica Corporation has created the 180fx® laminate countertop surface. “A revolution in surfacing with true-to-scale granite patterns that offer visual drama unmatched by any other laminate. New sophisticated patterns focus on a neutral palette – versatile enough to pair with any interior design concept.” So don’t think the kitchen remodel you want is out of reach. It may be possible thanks to these new patterns!

10. Creating connections between your lifestyle and cooking

We live in a wonderful design age where kitchen manufacturers are realizing the importance of connecting how we all live in our homes, the way we interact with our appliances, the way we prepare food, and the way appliances, fixtures, and finishes should interplay with our senses. KBIS is a wonderful example of how the best minds come together to show you what is available today and what they are working on for your future. It’s still true: The kitchen rules our homes and rightfully so. It’s the soul of our home and the way we come together with family and friends!

By Freshome for BobVila.com as published on Yahoo Homes

Home Improvements that Pay Off!

Which_Home_Improvements_Actually_Pay-a1cba2cdd2f82e9613e30166ddafd7a7“Quite often, as our clients are contemplating a Home Improvement project they will consult us to make sure they are going to get their money back.  This is especially true for those who are thinking of Selling, but realize that they have not done any upgrades since they bought the house 10, 15 or more years ago.  Here are some very revealing numbers to consider before you start that next big project.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

Even the most valuable remodeling projects don’t completely recoup the cost, according to Remodeling Magazine’s annual cost vs. value report. The project with the highest return on investment — installing a steel door — only recoups 97 percent of its cost. That wasn’t always the case. In 2009, steel doors had an ROI of 125 percent. But in 2011, it fell to 73 percent.

These huge swings are due to fluctuations in home prices — and when home prices dropped, so did ROI on remodeling projects. But now that home prices are rising and construction costs are relatively stable, homeowners can expect to see these projects pay off. Here’s what you can expect to pay — and recoup — from some of the most common remodeling projects, from a minor kitchen redo to a two-story addition.

Minor Kitchen Remodel

 

Businesswoman-getting-glass-off-shelf_web

 

Average national cost: $18,856
ROI: 82.7 percent

While any kitchen remodel will add some value to your home, less is more when it comes to ROI. If you’re remodeling on a budget, focus on a few key areas: Replace dated appliances with more modern, stainless steel models; replace aging countertops with sturdier materials that you can afford; replace cabinet hardware (but leave the boxes in place); and apply a fresh coat of paint or add a new backsplash.

Major Kitchen Remodel

 

Interior-kitchen_web

 

Average national cost: $54,909
ROI: 74.2 percent

Any real estate agent will tell you to invest your time and money in the kitchen if you want to add value to your home. Why? Because kitchens make a big impression — and home buyers want them to be modern, functional and well-maintained. The average cost of a major kitchen remodel is high, but includes a complete gutting — from cabinets to appliances to flooring and replacing them with modern mid-range materials.

Be careful not to go too far with kitchen remodels. Unless you’re living in a high-end, luxury home, you shouldn’t have high-end, luxury appliances (like a top-of-the-line Sub-Zero fridge, for example) or personalized gadgets — they won’t matter to your targeted buyer or add value to your home.

Bathroom Remodel

 

Contemporary-bathroom_web

 

Average national cost: $16,128
ROI: 72.5 percent

Second to the kitchen, a modern bathroom is high on many home buyers’ wish lists. The average cost of a bathroom remodel includes replacing a porcelain-on-steel tub, shower head, toilet, sink, vanity, as well as floor and wall tiles. But you don’t have to do all that to boost your home’s value. To get the biggest bang for your buck, keep the tub, toilet and sink and focus on replacing the vanity surface with solid material (think: granite, quartz, marble), installing better faucets and a shower head and updating tiles around the shower. These surface additions are more visible and reflect taste prospective buyers will appreciate.

Basement Remodel

 

Finished-white-basement-in-house_web

 

Average national cost: $62,834
ROI: 77.6 percent

There’s a reason you see “finished basement” advertised in so many home listings — it’s an attractive feature. To get the full value out of your remodel, you want the basement to provide space for entertaining your family or guests. It should be big (and finished) enough to be a truly useful space. The average cost of a basement remodel includes adding a bathroom with a glass shower, a 20×30 foot entertaining area with a wet bar, insulated walls and laminate flooring. However, keep in mind that below-grade rooms like basements don’t add as much value as above-grade rooms, like an attic conversion.

Attic Conversion

 

Modern-and-warm-attic-bedroom_web

 

Average national cost: $49,438
ROI: 84.3 percent

Converting your attic into a livable space accomplishes two things that add value: It adds square footage and a bedroom without increasing the footprint of the home. By adding that extra space, particularly a bedroom, you’ve moved your home into a new category — a four bedroom instead of a three bedroom, for example — and that’s guaranteed added value. Remodeling Magazine’s average cost includes a bathroom, which does add value, but can be cost-prohibitive in some attics.

Two-Story Addition

 

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Average national cost: $155,365
ROI: 71.8 percent

Adding on space — specifically a family room, bedroom and bathroom — will always add value to your house, but it’s hard to completely recoup such a high cost. However, when adding onto a home, you’re probably thinking more about creating more space for yourself than the next owner, which to many people may be worth the money.

Deck

 

Beautiful-wooden-back-deck_web

 

Average national cost: $9,539 for wood, $15,437 for composite
ROI: 87.4 percent for wood, 74.3 percent for composite

Outdoor living spaces are becoming more popular, and that means buyers are willing to shell out more money for homes that have these outdoor entertainment spaces. While wood decks add more value and cost less, they typically come with more maintenance costs (like staining) over time to maintain the wood.

Ilyce Glink is an award-winning author, columnist, radio talk show host and blogger who specializes in real estate and personal finance. Her articles appear on Yahoo, AOL, CBS News, and numerous blogs. Find her online at ThinkGlink.com.

12 Decorating Do’s and Don’ts

Decorating Tips“Tired of living with white walls and the same decor that you’ve had for years?  Want to spruce things up a bit, but not sure how, or where to start?  Read these great tips from some of the best in the business.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson 

 

No rules – but timeless, unforgettable advice. Twelve designers share their favorite words of wisdom.

Don’t: Use White Decor If You Have Kids or Pets
“If you have pets or children, white rugs and upholstery are just not in the cards. People love the way they look but never realize that you have to hermetically seal your household to keep them clean.” –Markham Roberts

Do: Find Inspiration in Your Travels
“Travel as much as you can, and stay on the alert for inspiration wherever you go – you could find a great floor plan in a museum’s period room, or a color in a painting. And don’t just rely on your camera. If you draw something, you’ll really absorb the detail.” –DD Allen

Don’t: Forget About Seating
“Today everyone likes rooms sparse, but for a living room, you need the sorts of chairs people can pull up together, so that they want to come into the room and sit down and chat.” –Paula Perlini

Do: Use Dramatic Color in a Small Space
“Color is best used in small spaces that you pass through. A dramatic color in a room where you’re going to be spending a lot of time might feel too heavy or dark, but if you use it in a foyer or pantry, it makes the whole house feel colorful. It also makes the house feel bigger, because it turns a space you might not notice into one that catches your attention.” –John Barman

Don’t: Be Afraid to Splurge on Great Pieces
“Invest in one great-quality piece. It sometimes hurts in the beginning, but you end up having that piece forever, and it can really carry a room, or even an entire house.” –David Kaihoi

Do: Test Paint Colors in a Big Way
“When you test paint colors in a room, make big patches so that you can really see if you need to go darker or lighter. I make mine 3 feet by 3 feet.” –Mary Douglas Drysdale

Don’t: Ignore Architectural Details
“Respect the architecture of a space. That’s not to say you can’t be surprising – I might use period furniture in a modern room, but I’ll make sure the lines and silhouettes are appropriate. The whole room has to hang together.” –Mariette Himes Gomez

Do: Trust Your Instincts
“The late, great Antony Childs once said to me, ‘Be true to yourself, and trust your instincts.’ We all have different points of view – that’s what makes each of us special – and our rooms should be a reflection of that.” –David Mitchell

Don’t: Make a Room Too Formulaic
“Start a room with a classic furniture layout that’s functional, then add in funky pieces to loosen it up, relax it, and keep it from feeling too formulaic.” –Thom Filicia

Do: Draw the Eye With an Interesting Piece
“A photographer I worked with taught me the importance of the axial view. When you’re looking down a corridor, you want a wonderful object at the end of it to draw you forward – a sculpture, a chandelier, anything to define the space and pull you in.” –Nancy Braithwaite

Don’t: Go Overboard
“One of my mentors always said, ‘Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.’ Great projects are the ones that show a little restraint.” –Heather Hilliard

Do: Pay Attention to Doors and Entrances
“Spend the money to make openings between rooms as high as possible – anything to get away from the standard, squat 7-foot-tall door. It really creates a sense of openness, lightness, and grandeur in a space.” –Suzanne Lovell

Originally published on Yahoo! Shine 

15 Painting Mistakes to Avoid in Your Home

Painting Tips“There is not a cheaper way to transform a room, and give it a different feeling than changing the paint color.  When done right, everyone notices the difference.  The only problem is that when done wrong, everyone notices as well.  Following these simple tips and tricks, your new painting project will be noticed for the ‘Right’ reasons.”

 

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

Taking on your next painting project? For a flawless finish, avoid these painting mistakes.


1. Skipping the Tape
Do you have the skills to get straight lines around the woodwork, windowsills and doorframes? Grab the painter’s tape and get the nice, clean edges you want.

2. Painting Without Primer
Primer gives paint a good surface to adhere to and brings out the true color of the shade you’ve chosen. Going without it can lead to poor results.

3. Impatience
You took the time to fix every imperfection with patching compound. Wait. Make sure it’s completely dry before you sand and prime. Otherwise, all that patching was a waste of time.

4. Paint Buildup on Pad Edge
When using edge pads around ceiling edges and corners, make sure to wipe off excess paint frequently to avoid marking the surface.

5. Brushing When You Should be Rolling
For a large interior area, a roller will do a better job in less time. Select the right nap roller for your sheen of paint and try to avoid pushing the roller into the wall when you paint.

6. Underestimating How Much Paint Needed
The pros say you need one gallon for every 400 square feet. Plan ahead and you can avoid running back and forth to the store with a paint swatch in your hand.

7. Assuming Walls are Clean
Paint looks much better when it has a good, clean surface to stick to. Wash your walls before painting and get professional results you can be proud of.

8. Painting When the Humidity is High
When the air is full of moisture, water-based paint takes longer to dry. If the weather winds up more humid than expected, take the day off and wait for a dry day.

9. Skipping the Surface Prep
Your new paint won’t stick to glossy, dirty walls that are in bad condition. Take the time to prep, or you’re bound to have problems down the road.

10. Paintbrush Abuse
When using latex paint, wet your brush bristles with water and shake the brush dry before you dip it in the paint. The brush will hold more paint and deliver better results.

11. Buying Any Paintbrush
When you’re choosing paintbrushes to use with latex-based paint, nylon/polyester blends produce the best results. Turns out polyester is good for something besides sport shirts.

12. Painting with Furniture in the Room
Getting paint off your furniture is a lot of work. If you can’t move it out of the room, at least make sure it’s completely covered with a drop cloth.

13. Failure to Protect the Floor
Paint has the amazing ability to go all the places you’d least expect it to. Before you pop the can open, make sure you have a drop cloth over everything and the edges are taped.

14. Polka-Dot Doorknobs
Unless you like the look of splattered paint, we recommend that you slip plastic bags over your doorknobs and tape the edge to avoid unsightly paint splatter.

15. Painting the Wall Plates
Want professional-looking results? Take five minutes to remove the wall plates and tape around your light switches and electrical outlets.

-From DIYNetwork.com

Making Room in Your Rooms

“Look around your home.  How much ‘stuff’ do you have?  You can simplify your life, and reduce the effort it takes to maintain your home, just by taking stock of what you have from time to time.  This becomes even more important if you are considering selling your home in the near future.  Having less ‘stuff’ in your home will allow it to show better and make it easier for you to pack when you are ready to move.  The following article provides some basic points on how to get started and what to do on a regular basis to help manage the clutter.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

The more things you have, the more you have to take care of. And in this case, the more that you have to store that gets in the way of finding the things that you actually use. Periodically, you need to go through every closet, drawer, cabinet and storage area to get rid of the things that are just taking up space in your home and your life.

Every item requires the decision to retain or remove. Consider these questions as you examine each item:

• When was the last time you used it?
• Do you believe you’ll use it again?
• Is there a sentimental reason to keep it?

You have four options for the things that you’re not going to keep.

1) If you know someone who needs it or will appreciate it, you can give it to them.

2) You can sell it in a garage sale or on Craig’s List

3) You can donate it to a charity and receive a tax deduction

4) You can discard it to the trash.

Start with your closet. If you haven’t worn something in five years, get rid of it. Then, go through the things again and if you haven’t worn it in two years, ask yourself the real probability that you’ll wear it again.

Another way to do it is to move it from your active closet to another closet. If a year goes by in the other closet, the next time you go through this exercise, those clothes are on their way out.

You can follow the same process in linen closets, cabinets and the garage.

If the items taking up space are financial records and receipts, the solution may be to scan them and store them in the cloud. There are plenty of sites that will offer you several gigabytes of free space and it may cost as little as $10 a month for 100 GB at Dropbox to get the additional space you need. It will certainly be cheaper than the mini-storage building.

General Home Maintenance Checklist

“You’ve just made the largest purchase in your life…it was an investment in your future as well.  Now you need to make sure you protect it and take care of it.  Be sure to read the following article to have a better understanding and appreciation of how to take care of your home.”

DC Metro Realty Team, Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

Your home is like your body. If you don’t take care of it, you can run into problems.

Take plumbing, for instance. It can clog up, just like your arteries.

By regularly checking your home’s inner and outer workings, you can avoid major problems down the road. But if you’re a new homeowner, what should you be doing? And when?

Steve Hessil, owner of Dr. Plumber, a plumbing firm in Franklin, said work should start as soon as you buy a house (having a home inspection first is a good idea). You’ll want to have an electrician and a plumber come in to make sure everything’s in order and up to code. If you need help with the basics, they can help you figure out how to shut off your gas and make sure your water shut-off valve works properly.

There are some areas of the home that should be inspected roughly once a year; others more often. Some home features should be checked at specific times of the year; others are less urgent and can wait until you have time.

Experts agree that furnaces and AC units are among the most important things to check in a home.

Wayne Abendschein, a comfort specialist at 1st Choice Heating and Cooling in Waukesha, said he’s seeing furnace problems now — in some cases due to neglect.

“For people who haven’t had their furnaces tuned up or looked at…they’re breaking down at this time of year because of the long run cycles we’re having with the weather conditions.”

How often a furnace needs servicing depends on its age, said Kurt Dodge, owner, D & M Heating, Milwaukee.

“Furnaces are like people,” Dodge said. “When you’re young and in good shape, you can get by a little longer before seeing a doctor. A furnace is kind of the same. For the first 10 years, (maintenance) every couple of years is good. As it gets older, things can deteriorate quickly, just like us.” Then they should be checked yearly.

Randy Miller, owner of Allrite Home and Remodeling and S & E Insulation, Milwaukee, said these systems, as well as insulation, should be checked well before you need them.

“Contractors have a tendency to get busy (at certain times of the year) because everyone thinks about these things at the last minute,” he said.

David Pekel, owner of Pekel Construction & Remodeling Inc., Wauwatosa, said that in some cases homeowners can make repairs themselves, but that common sense should prevail.

For electrical issues, “contact a master electrician,” said Pekel, the 2014 president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). “There’s very little homeowners can or should do relative to electricity.”

With furnaces, there’s a bit more leeway. “Just like changing the oil on your car, changing your furnace filter is relatively easy to do,” Pekel said. “Beyond that, rely on a professional.”

He added that homeowners should know their limitations in terms of ability and equipment. While they may be able to tell when their gutters are clogged, that doesn’t mean they have the right equipment and ability to unclog them.

Here’s a checklist of some home maintenance tips from our pros. If a specific timetable isn’t noted, maintenance can be checked any time of the year. Staff at the NARI website,www.milwaukeenari.org, contributed to the list.

Air conditioning: In spring, or when temperatures reach at least 70 degrees, have it tuned up. This can be done every one to two years depending on the unit’s age. Also, clean off the outdoor condenser by spraying it at a 30-degree angle with your garden hose. Clean again in fall.

In summer, clear away shrubbery, grass or debris so you have at least 18 inches of clearance around the unit and 2 feet above it for good air flow. Check and replace air filters throughout the summer and look for ice forming on the refrigerant lines. That indicates a problem.

Caulking and grout: Regularly inspect caulking and grout around tubs, showers and sinks and reapply as needed.

Chimney and fireplace: In summer, have them both checked for soot and creosote buildup. Also check the cap on your chimney, the brickwork and the flashing about every three years.

Exhaust fans: Periodically clean the grill and fan blades.

Fire extinguishers: Once a year, check to make sure they’re fully charged, and recharge or replace them if necessary. Put one on every floor and one very near your kitchen.

Furnace: In spring, summer or early fall, have it tuned up and have a safety inspection. This can be done yearly or every two years, depending on its age. It should also be vacuumed out yearly, and filters in forced air systems should be changed monthly to yearly depending on the system. For boiler heat, bleed radiators in late summer or early fall.

In winter, for high-efficiency furnaces, be sure there’s no snow or ice buildup around the exhaust pipe outside. A blocked pipe could cause your furnace to fail or result in carbon monoxide in your home.

Garbage disposal: Flush with hot water and baking soda.

Gutters: In fall, check to see if they’re clogged. Do this two to three times a year if you have a lot of trees nearby. Put a hose in the gutters and run water to be sure it’s pitched properly for drainage and that downspouts aren’t clogged. Also, make sure downspouts and extensions are in good shape.

Humidity: A few times a year, check moisture with a gauge. Levels should be down, especially in winter when houses sealed up tight.

Insulation: In fall, check your basement for areas with lots of cobwebs. This indicates insects are getting in through gaps that should be filled. Also inspect the top of your interior walls for dark streaks that run horizontally near the ceiling. This can indicate a problem with your insulation or ventilation.

In winter, look at your roof after it snows to see if the snow melts faster than on other homes. Check for ice damming in your gutters and excessive icicles on the outer edge of your roof; they can indicate insulation problems. Also look for excessive condensation on interior windows. Open blinds to help eliminate the problem. If windows get very frosty, it may be time for new ones.

Mold: If you have had any water damage, check for mold. In most cases, you’ll need a pro to resolve this problem.

Home exterior: In spring, look for siding panels that are lose, cracked or worn. Also check your foundation for moisture and cracks that are expanding. Check sidewalks for cracks and lifting, and steps that need repair.

Plumbing: In fall, turn off the valve in your basement for the outside faucet. Then open the faucet outside and and let the water drain out. If it doesn’t stop draining, you need a new valve in the basement.

In winter, check pipes in colder areas of your home to be sure they’re well insulated. Also check pipes on exterior walls in very cold weather. Open cabinet doors if possible to keep them warmer, so they don’t freeze.

Once a year, fill sinks to the top, then let the water run out to see how fast it drains. If you have a two-sided sink and one side fills up when the other drains, you have a partially plugged sink. Have it checked before it gets completely plugged. Once a month, run hot water in your kitchen sink for a few minutes to help keep it from clogging.

Regularly check for running toilets, corroded or leaking pipes, dripping faucets and water pressure. If a faucet runs slow, you may have a problem that could get worse over time. Also check ceilings below bathrooms for drywall damage.

Roof: In spring or summer, look for loose or missing shingles, shingles that are curling and granule loss. If you can easily lift the outer edge of a shingle this time of year, that means the sealant is no longer holding and your roof may need attention. Also look for signs of leaks around vents, skylights and chimneys. If you can, check your roof from the second floor of your neighbor’s home for the best view.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Check them in spring and fall when you change your clocks.They should be on each floor of your home, and also near gas furnaces, water heaters and dryers.

Sump pumps: In spring, test your sump pump to be sure it’s working. If it’s noisy, it might need to be replaced.

Water heaters: If it’s more than 12 years old, consider replacing it, because they often fail at this age. Also drain it yearly until the water runs clear, then refill.

Windows and doors: In spring, summer or fall, caulk and clean windows. Make sure insulation isn’t popping out around your windows and that you have tight seals.

Between spring and fall, check your attic access door to be sure there’s insulation above it. Also check locks, lubricate hinges and other moving parts, and install rubber or felt strips at the bottom of doors if needed.

Appliances: Occasionally inspect humidifiers and dehumidifiers for water leakage. Regularly vacuum lint from your clothes dryer, check for obstructed dryer vents, vacuum refrigerator condenser coils and give your oven a thorough cleaning at least once a year.

Winter Maintenance Tips

“Here in the Mid Atlantic Region we see all types of weather.  Generally, our winters aren’t too bitter, however you still need to prepare for the cold days that will inevitably be here.  Even when you live in warm climates, some of these things are important to check periodically.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

Preparing for the change of seasons can make your home more comfortable and protect your investment. Regular maintenance extends the various components of a home and can generate savings in operating costs while avoiding expensive replacements.

  • Weather strips around doors and windows should be checked for possible air leaks.
  • Caulking around windows and doors should seal out moisture and air leaks.
  • HVAC should be inspected and serviced by a professional annually.
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested regularly.
  • Ductwork and supply lines from water heaters should be insulated.
  • Fireplace chimneys should be cleaned regularly and fireplaces should be inspected for cracks in mortar and to see if the damper closes properly.
  • Gutters should be free of leaves and debris to prevent rainwater build-up.
  • Tree branches touching or hanging over your roof should be trimmed.

Please contact us if you need a service provider recommendation.

Denise.Buck@DCMetroRealtyTeam.com

Ed.Johnson@DCMetroRealtyTeam.com

Can You See the Savings? – Use LED Light bulbs

“Using LED light bulbs can save you far more than you realize.  Once you read this article you will be amazed at the potential savings.”

DC Metro Realty Team – Denise Buck & Ed Johnson

If you’ve considered changing your light bulbs to energy-saving LED bulbs but decided not to make the investment because the prices were too high, you might want to investigate again. The prices have come down considerably.

An initial investment now will generate immediate returns through energy costs and because they last longer, you won’t need to replace them for years.

The life of LED bulbs is projected to be from 35,000 to 50,000 hours compared to an incandescent bulb at 750 to 2,000 hours. For normal home use, a LED bulb could last more than 20 years.

80-90% of the energy used by fluorescent and incandescent bulbs is wasted by the heat generated. In contrast, cool LED bulbs converts 80% of the electrical energy to light energy.

• The color of LED lights is bright white, more like daylight, instead of the warm yellow of incandescent or the greenish tint of fluorescent bulbs.

• LEDs light up instantly instead of building to their intensity like some of the fluorescent bulbs.

• LEDs are more durable because they don’t have filaments or thin-glass bulbs like incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.

Shop around to find the best price on LEDs. If the LED only lasted 20,000 hours, you might have to purchase 20 incandescent bulbs during that same period of time. Using the chart below, you can see that the LED uses about 10% of the wattage without compromising on the brightness.

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