Tips and Advice for Maintaining a Home
One of the most important parts of owning a home is taking the time to maintain it, so it lasts longer and looks fantastic. Many have fallen behind on the art of home maintenance, but it’s never too late to start! If you follow these simple small tips, you can keep major problems from happening down the line. Check Pavers and Concrete This step is easy to do when following through with other lawn work or outside chores. Simply look at the ground pavers, sidewalk, and driveway on your property and make sure it’s in good condition. If you see any cracks, it’s vital that you get these repaired as soon as possible. When winter sets in, moisture can gather in these cracks and then expand as it freezes and crack further. The average winter season goes through countless thaw and freeze cycles, so a tiny crack could break an entire paver in half by the time spring arrives. Clean Showerheads and Taps This step is easy to do and should be done once every month to two months, depending on how much use the faucets and showerheads are getting. To do this, mix baking soda and water and apply this paste directly to the shower head and tap. Let the paste sit for around thirty minutes, and then wash it off by turning on the tap and wiping it with a clean cloth. If you want to take it further on taps, you can remove the filter to make sure there’s no build-up, but this isn’t as necessary. Ensure Features Are in Great Condition The features on the exterior of your home are important because they’re often the first part of your property that anyone sees. Check areas like your mailbox, patio, and lawn to make sure whatever features you have are well-maintained. From replacing a cracked birdbath to looking at new mailboxes because yours is old and rusted, it’s easy to make a small change that will freshen up your lawn and keep your property value high. Help Your HVAC System Run Smoothly Your HVAC system is the main thing that keeps your property comfortable through every season. Although it can be an added expense if you don’t already do this, it’s a good idea to take care of it and take steps like swapping out the filters every month or so. Beyond that, consider putting in a radiant heating thermostat so you can better control the temperature of your home. If your home has two floors, you may want to consider putting in a second unit to control the top floor separately. Heat rises, and if you try to heat your entire home evenly, you could be facing a lot of problems. Check Security Features Often Security features can make a huge difference in how safe you feel at home. This means going through and checking if your window locks, garage door, and external door lock all function correctly. If you have a doorbell camera, make sure the batteries on that stay charged and that it’s able to do its job without interruption. Install Attractive and Durable Updates When you’re updating your property, look for both quality and attractive features. This could mean manufactured stone panels that will last for years and look fresh, or it could mean updating to triple-paned windows to block out the weather and harsh conditions. If you’re unsure about a brand, don’t be shy to shop around and look at reviews. You want what’s best for your property, so it’s worth the extra legwork. Ensure Windows and Doors Don’t Leak One of the most devastating blows to any property is if there’s an air leak. This can ruin your electricity bill, allows extra moisture into your home, and can even invite insect life into your property. The best way to check if your windows and doors are leaking is to take a lit candle and carefully carry it near doors and windows while they’re closed. If you see the flame pull strongly one way or another when near an opening, that door or window needs a better seal. If all of your windows or doors are leaking, it might be time to replace them fully, depending on your budget. Keep Your Gutters and Roof Clear How often do you clean your gutters and roof? If you don’t currently have gutter guards, it’s a good idea to consider them since the average homeowner needs to have their gutters cleaned two to three times a year, depending on tree coverage and species. This can be dangerous for the homeowner to take on and expensive to have professionals complete. Your Home Can Run Smoothly When Well Maintained By taking the time to create a plan for yourself and keep up with maintenance, you can help your property last longer and look amazing while it does. Follow some of these tips if you want your property to thrive! – Sam Willis Sam Willis is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on real estate. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching real estate trends in his free time. Sam’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a new construction industry resource launching in Fall 2022.
Your Home Renovation Starter’s Guide
Home renovations can be a very daunting task. There are many things to consider, from the initial design stages to the finished product. Homeowners need to be well-informed about the process to make the best decisions for their families and homes. Here we outline a few things to keep in mind when planning a home renovation. Should You Add An Addition to Your Home? One popular home renovation is to add an addition. This can be a great way to create additional living space, but Fixr.com notes that it’s essential to consider the costs and the impact on your home’s resale value. If you’re planning on selling your home soon, an addition may not be the best option. You’ll need to hire a contractor with experience in major home renovations. Remember that this renovation can disrupt your daily life, so plan accordingly for the construction noise and mess. As with the other types of renovations listed here, you can expect your contractors to use various software like estimating apps and construction management software, such as with this solution. Contractors can use construction software with a built-in customer relationship management (CRM) system so they can easily communicate with customers in one place while tracking responses and follow-ups. This is good news for you, as you can expect correspondence with your contractors to be efficient and timely. Add a Home Office A common reason for wanting an addition is to add an extra room or two, such as a home office. This can be a great way to create a dedicated workspace, but it’s essential to look at the noise level and lack of privacy if your office is near a high-traffic area of your home. When reviewing locations, consider an area with lots of natural light. If that’s not possible, adding skylights or extra windows is an excellent way to brighten the space. Basement Renovations Another popular home renovation is to finish or remodel your basement. This can be a great way to add extra living space, but it’s essential to consider the costs and the impact on your home’s resale value. Many homeowners finish their basements for enjoyment, but it’s still necessary to factor in the prices of materials and labor. If you’re planning on selling your home soon, a basement renovation may not be the best option. HVAC and Roofing Two essential elements of any home renovation are the HVAC system and the roof. These are two of the most expensive and complex systems in your home, so it’s essential to consult with a professional before making any changes. Many homeowners choose to upgrade their HVAC system when they renovate, which, as Pendley Heating & Air Conditioning points out, can save money on energy bills. The roof is another essential element to consider. A solid roof is necessary to protect your home from the cold and snow. If your roof is over twenty years old, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a professional and complete any necessary repairs. New Windows and Doors Another critical aspect of any home renovation is the windows and doors. The weather this time of year can be brutal, so it’s essential to have good quality windows and doors to protect your home. If your home is over twenty years old, the windows and doors are likely outdated and may be in need of replacement. Many homeowners choose to upgrade their windows and doors to energy-efficient models, which can save money on energy bills. Home Renovations Are An Investment Home renovations are a significant investment, both in time and money. If you’d prefer to buy a new home with a stellar home office, contact Franklin Investment Realty for help finding the perfect location. Philadelphia-based Franklin Investment Realty provides clients with a range of experience whether it’s a purchase of a home to occupy or a property to buy within your self-directed IRA. Contact us today for more info! (215) 382-7368 – Shirley Martin
How Adding a New Deck Can Increase a Home’s Value
Your home’s exterior can make a huge difference in the number of people interested in your home: and how much it’s worth. If you’re interested in boosting the price of your property and aren’t afraid to put in a little extra work, here’s how adding a deck can increase your home’s value! Add Visual Appeal Visual appeal is one of the biggest reasons to add a new deck! Not only does a new deck look fantastic, but you can paint or stain it any color you want. This allows for a custom and gorgeous look that will set your lawn apart from anyone else’s. This type of addition is especially valuable if your lawn is otherwise unremarkable or has low spots that gather water near your home. The deck will give you a dry and comfortable place to sit and a way to hide drainage as you guide this water away from your property. Increase Usable Outdoor Space Since 2020 there’s been a large emphasis on usable exterior spaces that allow homeowners to get the most out of their homes. Instead of letting your home be uninspiring outside, you can enjoy a new and usable outdoor space that looks fantastic. This will ensure you get more benefits like vitamin D and can enjoy the fresh air. Over time this is proven to improve mental and physical health and can be awesome for everyone within your home. Affordable Materials Mean High ROI How much of a return you get on your investment depends on how much you paid for your lawn or rooftop deck and whether the market will be able to add that value to your home. Most decks add around 80% of the price of the build back into the property. Although this may not seem like a lot, if you built your deck five to ten years ago, that means you get to enjoy using it for that period of time and then enjoy selling your home for more money. Don’t cut corners, though! Get materials that are high value and able to last for as long as the future owners will need them. Can Add Square Footage to Property How large is your home? If your deck is large enough, you can often add its space to the square footage of your property. This is an incredible chance for anyone with a smaller house to spread out the area a little and possibly boost the value of their home without having to build an entirely brand-new bedroom onto the home. This can vary from state to state, so look into local laws and guidance, and work with a professional realtor before you decide to follow this update. Makes Home More Interesting to Families If you’re planning on selling your property any time soon, a deck will add a lot of valuable interest to your home. Buyers will love the idea of spending time outside with their loved ones and will instantly picture what their life will be like if they bought your home. Keeping up to date with the best polyurethane for decks you can find, and ensuring it always looks fresh and new, regardless of how old your patio is, is important as well. Nobody wants to buy a property with a rotting or old deck that they’ll have to replace or take down in a matter of years. Safer Area in Backyard In many areas, there are tons of risks within a backyard, from puppy poop to fire ants and even scorpions if you’re in a place like Arizona. Adding simple cedar deck boards and creating a gorgeous deck will give you a chance to pull up and away from your lawn. You can still enjoy it and get the most out of the outdoors without having to worry about where you’re stepping. Adding materials like hog wire deck railing makes it even safer, ensuring nobody falls or trips when they’re on your deck. Great Entertainment Space Entertainment is a must! We all love having friends and family over, so creating a space that’s not only a focal point but also attractive for your friends and family to visit will make a huge difference. You can take this even further by adding a grilling and outdoor kitchen area on your deck. Over time awesome memories will be created here, and it’ll feel like the main space of your home. It’s vital that if you do this, you ensure your wood is treated often and that your property is able to handle anything that’s thrown at it. This is especially true if you have more than ten people in any gathering on your deck. A New Deck Can Change Everything Whether you’re eager to sell soon or you’re trying to create a property that will be a great nest egg eventually- your deck matters. Add value by building this great entertainment space soon. Sam Willis is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on real estate. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching real estate trends in his free time. Sam’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisors, a new construction industry resource launching in Fall 2022. – Sam Willis
How the Right Kind of Lighting Can Transform Your Home
The right lighting can totally change the aesthetics of any room. In fact, the right kind can liven up a room, making it exciting and extremely eye-pleasing. It is important that you use reliable and good-quality electrical wires and cables while installing the lights. Let us learn more about lighting and how it can change the appearance of any room. Photo: TillyDesign.com Key Lighting Design Factors Area and size of the room Your preferences Height and shape of the ceiling Color of the walls, furniture and accessories Shadows and reflections in the room Daylight integrations Energy efficiency Level of illumination (lux) Electrical codes, documentation, and specifications 3 Types of Lighting General or Ambient Lighting This type of lighting is simply used to make an interior space visible. Ambient lighting is soft and allows you to function without a harsh glare. Use the right type of home wiring while installing these lights. Task Lighting Task lighting is concentrated, smaller lighting. It is meant to help you see clearly when you do activities like reading or sewing. It works well only when it is used as a contrasting light. Accent Lighting The primary objection of accent lighting is to draw the eye to its focal point. You can use it to add style and even drama to a room. Ensure house wiring is of high quality while installing these lights. How to Light Different Rooms of a House Entryways The entryways should be well-lit. One of the best lighting options for entryways is ceiling fixtures. Avoid downlights as they can create high contrast shadows. You can also use track lighting if you want to create a wall wash. Make sure the electrical cables are not visible when you fix the lights in the entryway. Stairs and Hallways There should be enough lighting in stairs and hallways to provide a safe passage for those using them. Install a light fixture every 4 – 6 feet. If you use the right type of lighting, you can make the area seem more spacious. You can use different light sources like wash lights or wall fixtures. Utility Rooms and Garages In these areas, you need plenty of ambient and recessed lighting. Utility rooms like the laundry area would require task lighting. Do not place the lights directly over the vehicles in the garage. Installing moisture-proof fluorescent lighting would be ideal. Go over the house electrical wiring to determine which would be the best spots to install lights. Living Rooms A living room is where you spend most of your waking hours. This is where you would gather with your family, host guests, watch television, read, or work. Multiple light layers, along with dimmable lights would look great. You can also use a combination of accent lighting and ambient lighting. Kitchens This is undoubtedly one of the most functional areas of the house. You don’t just cook in the kitchen, but also eat, hang out or even work. This means you need plenty of ambient light along with task lighting in the kitchen. Under-cabinet lighting can provide task lighting for the counters. Consider using energy-efficient lighting since you would use this space a lot. Dining Room Install beautiful light fixtures like chandeliers or pendant lighting above the dining table. You can also use track lighting and dimmers to create a more relaxed or romantic ambience. If you want to use recessed lighting, then aim the light toward the walls as it will create ambient light. Ensure that the home electrical wiring supports the installation of these lights. Bedroom Bedrooms should be relaxing and help you wind down after a long and tiring day. Moreover, the lighting should help you fall asleep. Ambient lighting, along with dimmer controls, will help you achieve that. Accent lighting will give the room a more decorative look. Don’t install any light directly above the bed. Bathrooms Bathrooms are all about function, safety, and aesthetics. You must have bright, even light that is shadow-free. Use recessed lighting as it would help free up space and offer a glare-free look. Choose a neutral light that is directed toward your face when you look at the mirror. To Conclude Remember that you must pay attention to the home electrical wiring system when you install the lights of your choice. Choose the right type of lighting, and you will see your home transform into a relaxing, comfortable and stunning place. – Jesson Pitt
What to Evaluate When Considering a Detached Garage
Garages are getting a new, fresh consideration by homeowners these days. Once, garages served one purpose: to house and shelter your car. Today, a garage can serve many purposes, including storage, a playroom for the kids (or a game room for adults), and even a guest room that can be rented out to generate income. If you already have a garage for one purpose, you may be considering a second garage for additional reasons. Great idea, but it takes some serious consideration and planning. Here are just a few things to keep in mind when planning a detached garage: Start with your best reasons for building: Extra storage space Renting the space in order to generate income To house additional vehicles To create some solitude (or a mancave) Build a plan: How large will the garage be? Will it shelter vehicles? More than one? What kind of doors and windows will you include? What type of roof? Will this construction require contractors (and subcontractors)? Know the rules: Does your community require permits or inspections before building begins? Who is liable in case of an accident during and after the construction phase? Check your homeowners insurance. Determine if you are going to need a contractor to help you: Plan to request at least three quotes. Don’t automatically consider the lowest quote. Instead, consider reputations and recommendations. Try not to cut corners. Make sure to check if your contractor is listed with the Better Business Bureau. Trust your gut: does this contractor inspire confidence? Sign a contract so that there are no gray areas or miscommunication about what is needed to be done and when. Consider building materials (and any related building codes): If using a contractor, request a bill of materials (BOM). This is a list of all the materials required for the project. What type of framing (lumber) will you need? What type of foundation materials will you need (most common: cement)? Will your garage be heated or air conditioned? You then need to consider HVAC services and equipment. What type of materials will you need for your roof? What type of door and window materials will you need? Do any of your materials need to comply with your local building codes? Should you consider a prefab detached garage kit? They’re often designed to accommodate one car (but there are exceptions). Some offer additional space for tools and storage. Consider a kit that may also create a guest room or additional housing unit (ADU). How much will this garage cost you? Of course, it all depends on what type of garage you are building and where you are located. $16,766-$38,954, according to Home Advisor $35-$60 per square foot/$19,600-$28,200 average total cost, according to Home Guide. Average cost for a two-car, single story, finished interior, 576 square foot, asphalt shingles, vinyl siding: $52,830, according to Fixr. Bottom line: It’s undeniable: we all need more space. A detached garage on your property may be able to solve logistical problems or help serve a new purpose. However, don’t move forward until you have all of your ducks in a row, knowing what you’re up against, how much the project will cost, and that you are building legally. – Karl Kennedy
Things to Look For in Your Next Home
As you start the home buying process, you will have to consider many important factors, above and beyond your own personal budget and buying power. While this can be a stressful process, there are things you can do to make the process simple and as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a current homeowner, you can begin to prepare for the homebuying process by spending some time thinking about the things that are most important to you. At Franklin Investment Realty, we are here to not only help you purchase your next home, but help you truly think through exactly what you want – and need – in your next home. Welcoming Neighborhood One of the most important things to consider, relative to your own personal budget and buying power, is where you want to purchase your new home. Are you looking for a quiet neighborhood with a larger yard (Bucks County)? Or, maybe you’re looking for a new home in a more walkable neighborhood (Old City)? Perhaps you’re shopping close to work, or you’re looking to purchase a home in a specific school district? These are all really important things to consider as you start researching new homes and each answer will be specific to you and your family. With our many years of experience in the greater Philadelphia area, we are confident we can help you explore new neighborhoods and exciting pockets of the city, like Brewerytown and many other booming neighborhoods, and find the area that’s just perfect for you. Cozy Living Spaces and Amenities Another critically important decision you will need to make is determine exactly how much space you need – and how you want that space to be allocated throughout your home. Maybe you’re a chef and an impressive kitchen with ample storage is important to you; or maybe you would prefer a bonus media room for your children or a spare home office. Either way, determining exactly how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need in your next house is an important decision to make as you tour potential new homes. Another important decision you will need to make is to consider if you want your home to be move-in ready, or if you want to be afforded the opportunity to make your home your own with small – or large – renovations. In this housing market, and with our knowledge of the area, Franklin Investment Realty can help you consider the pros and cons of purchasing a move-in-ready home, or a charming fixer-upper that you can customize to be your own. Once you’re settled in your beautiful home, you can stay cozy and warm with an indoor movie night. Make your perfect night-in all the better with a home theater projector and stream your favorite holiday movies or shows anywhere in the house, maybe even outside if the weather allows, or stay indoors cozied up on the couch. To make the season even more special, you can build a hot chocolate bar complete with marshmallows, candies and peppermints. – Karl Kennedy
Exterior Home Projects that Increase Your Home’s Value
Spring will be here before you know it so now is a great time to start planning some exterior renovation projects that will be perfect for the warmer weather and boost your home’s value. The exterior of a home offers plenty of room for upgrades, so let’s go over some of the best projects you can undertake that will not only boost your home’s value but provide you some personal benefit as well. A New Roof The roof of your home has a huge impact on its value. By installing some fresh shingles or other types of roofing, you can achieve a fresh, crisp look up top that will be reflected in your home’s value. You can’t go wrong with new asphalt shingles, but you might also opt for synthetic cedar shakes, rubber slate roof tiles, or natural wood shakes. For an added bump in value, consider attaching some solar panels to your roof as well. Landscaping Another big-ticket upgrade that stands out upon first viewing of a home is a landscaping project. This can take the form of a beautiful, winding stone pathway, a pergola, gazebo, hedges, a garden, or anything else you can come up with. Having some sort of prominent, unique feature in your yard differentiates you from your neighbors and adds value to your home. Improve Your Facade Your facade generally refers to the front of your home. This includes everything from your siding to your front door. Improve it all in one fell swoop for maximum value. You can replace your front door with a newer version or style, or you could simply add a fancy knocker or some window panels. For siding, consider swapping out traditional vinyl for something with more value like fiber cement, stone veneer, or vertical metal siding which are some of the best house siding options on the market today. New Windows Windows play as big of a role in determining the value of your home as many other large features. They can let in natural light and improve the aesthetic tremendously if you pick the right kind. Adding a skylight or two as well as swapping out old windows for newer ones is another highly effective way to add value. Replace your old single-hung windows with more creative styles like a bay window, sliding windows, or even garden windows that allow you to grow flowers or vegetables indoors. Weatherproofing Leaks One easy and super cheap way to add value to your home is by weatherproofing windows and doors. Adding some weatherstripping, an AirDam, or both can eliminate those pesky air leaks and raise the energy efficiency level of your home, adding significant value to it. A New Garage Door Especially if your garage door is facing the street as most garage doors do, you need yours in tip-top shape. Try replacing your old door with a new one for a fresh look. There are plenty of styles and colors to choose from and nothing helps add to a home makeover than a brand new garage door. Upgrading from a manually opened garage door to an electronic one is highly advisable if you haven’t already. If you want to further improve your garage’s curb appeal consider adding a garage trim to it such as a curbed trim. A Pergola for the Backyard Shade is a hot commodity in these times, so give yourself some extra shade by building a pergola in your backyard. A pergola can be like a little oasis of shade, especially if you don’t have many trees in your backyard. There are even companies that offer kits and a full set of instructions for how to build your own pergola. Permeable Driveway If your home deals with driveway flooding at all, this can lower its worth. Raise your home value and remake your driveway by installing a permeable driveway with a built-in driveway drainage system. One of many driveway paving ideas is filling it with beautiful limestone which is even more durable than an asphalt or gravel driveway. Permeable paver driveways provide both style and functional drainage, lowering maintenance costs, and adding value to your property overall. Add a Water Feature A water feature is an excellent way to add some value to your home. By installing a fountain, duck pond, or even a small in-ground pool, you can add some serious character and depth to your backyard and thus achieve a higher asking price on the market. The types of materials to choose from when adding a water feature range from inexpensive to high-class and very expensive, so you have a lot of freedom to take this one as far as you want to. Upgrade your Home Exterior for a Big Boost in Property Value There are plenty of ways you can invest in your home’s exterior to raise its value. From smaller projects like weatherproofing your windows and doors or building a pergola, to slightly larger ones like adding a water feature, building a permeable paver driveway, or swapping out your old garage door for a new one, there’s no shortage of ways to raise your home’s value with some exterior remodeling projects in 2021. Contact Matt Scannapieco for a home value estimate and forecast for these exterior improvements. Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value. – Matt Lee