Inexpensive Home Maintenance Tasks Can Prevent Big Expenses in the Future

by admin on July 28, 2011

For a few hours’ time and a small investment, you can do a lot to protect your property. Even renters can ensure comfortable surroundings with some of these tips.

Get energy efficient. If you have not yet installed a programmable thermostat, now is the time to do it. You can reduce your cooling costs by 10 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Thermostats cost $40 to $70.

Seal around the tub and shower. Cracked or poorly sealed caulking around tubs, showers, and sinks can lead to water damage to floors, walls, and the ceilings below, say experts writing in Money magazine. When you see cracks or gaps, buy a $5 tube of caulking and reapply.

Prevent fires. Check your fire extinguisher to see if it’s still charged. If you need a new one, buy an extinguisher that works on both kitchen and electrical fires. The National Fire Protection Agency recommends one that is labeled ABC. Cost is about $40.

Test the sump pump. Before a heavy rain floods your basement, test your sump pump to see if it works. Pour water into the well around it. Raising the water level should make it go on.

Prevent shocks. Electrical outlets near water in the kitchen and bathroom should have ground fault circuit interrupters that protect from a shock They have “test” and “reset” buttons. If you need one, the GFCI costs about $10, but you should hire an electrician to install it.

Service the garage door. Spray penetrating oil such as WD-40 into the hinges and rollers so the door will open and close more easily. Test the safety reverse mechanism by placing an object in the door’s path to see if it stops. WD-40 costs about $7.

Register for Your Down Payment

by admin on July 19, 2011

Many newlywed couples face a daunting down payment soon after marriage. This has gotten only more difficult as larger down payments are required since the reemergence of conservative underwriting standards.

A recent article in the Scotsman Guide discussed a new trend at weddings that can ease the financial burden: down payment registries.

“Homebuyers hoping to avoid the typical barrage of plates, glasses and cutlery now have a choice,” explained the article. Couples can learn about down payment registries from their loan officers and using that money as a gift fund for their new home.

Websites allowing secure payments for wedding guests to contribute is the common method, as down payment registries online can allow guests to see the homes a couple likes and feel more involved in the process, as opposed to just sending cash.

For more information about these registries, read the full Scotsman Guide article here and talk to your mortgage professional about it.

Biggest First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Avoid

by admin on July 10, 2011

Looking for your first home can be an exciting experience, but it can easily get overwhelming. There are some mistakes that are pretty easy to make if you aren’t familiar with real estate.

Looking Without Knowing Your Price Range

This is a waste of time for you and your real estate agent. It can give you the wrong idea of a realistic fit for your financial situation. The first thing you should do is sit down and figure out what you can afford. Once you’ve done that, your Realtor can show you houses that fit your price range.

Discounting a Great Home Because of Decor
Just because you can’t afford to replace the hideous wallpaper right now doesn’t mean you won’t be able to soon. Getting too picky over small details that can be changed could keep you from ending up in your dream home. Use your imagination and visualize what the house could be like after you’ve put your touch on it.

Shopping Without A Mortgage Pre-Approval
What you have determined you can afford and what banks are willing to lend might not be the same thing. If you go into contract on a home and can’t get the loan you need, you will have wasted a lot of people’s time and gotten your hopes up. Contact a mortgage professional in order to get qualified for a loan before you do any serious house-hunting.