Friday, October 28, 2011
Thumbtack.com
Thumbtack is one of best providers of reputable services for everyone. They provide a one stop place for all your needs. From finding what you want to booking the service professionals the moment you find them.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Affordable Home Inspections: Air handler Flow
Affordable Home Inspections: Air handler Flow: The return air is questionable and should be explained how the first and second floor is divided and how much return should be from ea...
Air handler Flow
As installed the first floor and second floor has 16x20 returns. One is in the first floor ceiling and one is above the door at the air handler. The first floor return is reduced to a 12" x 12" box installed at the floor of the air handler (why reduced) while the second floor above the door stays the same.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Amid the Gloom, Consumers' View of Buying Conditions for Homes Improves
Consumer confidence fell back sharply in March amid concerns of rising gas and food prices. Consumer Sentiment retreated 12.9% in March to 67.5, according to the University of Michigan consumer survey. This reversed the gains recorded in the prior four months.
The losses were concentrated in the Expectations Index, which fell 19.1% to 57.9. Consumers are concerned about the prospects for the economy over the next 12 months, with “… the proportion of consumers who expected the economy to improve during the year ahead drop(ping) to 21% in March from 40% in February …”, as well as their own financial position, with “… just one-in-four consumers expecting their financial position to improve during the year ahead …” In addition, consumers no longer anticipate further declines in the unemployment rate over the next six months.
While consumers are concerned about the pace of economic growth and their financial position in the year ahead, their view of their present situation is better, with the Current Conditions Index slipping only 5.1% to 82.5.
Despite their gloomy economic outlook, consumers intend to keep spending, with no decline in their buying attitudes towards a range of consumer durables, including motor vehicles. The index of buying conditions for homes rose to 159, with 78% of respondents identifying that they believe home buying conditions were good—the highest level since May 2009. Low prices (63%) and low interest rates (41%) were cited as the main reasons. Following weak demand for both new and existing homes in February, the positive attitude towards housing suggests demand is likely to improve as we begin the Spring selling season.
The losses were concentrated in the Expectations Index, which fell 19.1% to 57.9. Consumers are concerned about the prospects for the economy over the next 12 months, with “… the proportion of consumers who expected the economy to improve during the year ahead drop(ping) to 21% in March from 40% in February …”, as well as their own financial position, with “… just one-in-four consumers expecting their financial position to improve during the year ahead …” In addition, consumers no longer anticipate further declines in the unemployment rate over the next six months.
While consumers are concerned about the pace of economic growth and their financial position in the year ahead, their view of their present situation is better, with the Current Conditions Index slipping only 5.1% to 82.5.
Despite their gloomy economic outlook, consumers intend to keep spending, with no decline in their buying attitudes towards a range of consumer durables, including motor vehicles. The index of buying conditions for homes rose to 159, with 78% of respondents identifying that they believe home buying conditions were good—the highest level since May 2009. Low prices (63%) and low interest rates (41%) were cited as the main reasons. Following weak demand for both new and existing homes in February, the positive attitude towards housing suggests demand is likely to improve as we begin the Spring selling season.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Why Wise Buyers Get a Home Inspection
The list of things that can be wrong with a new home is endless, so don't sign on the dotted line until a reputable home inspector gives you the all clear.
The cost of an inspection is nothing compared to your purchase price. It's also nothing compared to what you will pay for unexpected repairs if you don't have a home inspection.
Most houses have defects or need repairs, and many problems can be serious. A home inspection will point out any safety hazards and alert you to major repairs that will be necessary.
A home inspector is a jack-of-all-trades who is familiar with everything from structures and electrical and plumbing systems to insulation, heating and cooling systems, and roofs.
During an inspection, the inspector will make an intensive visual examination of your home, concentrating on areas such as the foundation; exterior walls and roof; attic, basement and garage; electrical, plumbing and heating systems; and the home's interior.
The inspector should then present a written report that details findings and suggests repairs. It's always advisable that you attend the inspection, which may take two to three hours. But don't expect the home inspector to provide cost estimates. Your best bet is to contact two or three contractors.
When looking for a qualified home inspector, don't overlook recommendations from friends or your real estate agent, but be aware that there are other resources to help you.
The NC Licensed Home Inspector Association. (HCLHIA) provides standards of practice and a code of ethics, as well as training courses for potential members. Some states now license home inspectors, but many do not. In states that don't, it's important to establish that the inspector is qualified and is a member in good standing of an organization such as NCLHIA. The Better Business Bureau can also help you.
Remember that the inspection report won't guarantee you're set forever once the suggested repairs are completed. Houses still need regular maintenance and repair, and as the homeowner, that's your job.
The cost of an inspection is nothing compared to your purchase price. It's also nothing compared to what you will pay for unexpected repairs if you don't have a home inspection.
Most houses have defects or need repairs, and many problems can be serious. A home inspection will point out any safety hazards and alert you to major repairs that will be necessary.
A home inspector is a jack-of-all-trades who is familiar with everything from structures and electrical and plumbing systems to insulation, heating and cooling systems, and roofs.
During an inspection, the inspector will make an intensive visual examination of your home, concentrating on areas such as the foundation; exterior walls and roof; attic, basement and garage; electrical, plumbing and heating systems; and the home's interior.
The inspector should then present a written report that details findings and suggests repairs. It's always advisable that you attend the inspection, which may take two to three hours. But don't expect the home inspector to provide cost estimates. Your best bet is to contact two or three contractors.
When looking for a qualified home inspector, don't overlook recommendations from friends or your real estate agent, but be aware that there are other resources to help you.
The NC Licensed Home Inspector Association. (HCLHIA) provides standards of practice and a code of ethics, as well as training courses for potential members. Some states now license home inspectors, but many do not. In states that don't, it's important to establish that the inspector is qualified and is a member in good standing of an organization such as NCLHIA. The Better Business Bureau can also help you.
Remember that the inspection report won't guarantee you're set forever once the suggested repairs are completed. Houses still need regular maintenance and repair, and as the homeowner, that's your job.
Friday, November 12, 2010
How to Sell Your Home Fast in a Troubled Economy
Whether you are relocating, purchasing a new property or simply needing to move ahead, it's sometimes necessary to sell a home fast. Unfortunately, that is easier said than done during a buyer's market.
During the height of the real estate boom homes were selling in weeks, but today much of that has changed. Don't despair, though. There are several steps that you can take to help move your property in troubled times.
Work with an Experienced Agent: A surprising number of people try to sell a home on their own. Most turn to a professional agent after a few months, but the damage is already done. When time matters, go with a pro right from the start. Remember, the agent is acting like a publicity manager for the property.
Tackle Those Tough Jobs: Clear out the clutter and yard debris and then ask your agent for an honest appraisal of the property. Be sure to complete the "honey do" list to avoid competing against foreclosures and other homes with deferred maintenance. Not only will the home show better, but photographs, virtual tours and open house events will generate more interest when the home looks its best.
Invest in an Inspection: For approximately $300 to $500, an inspection might be one of the best investments you make. It demonstrates the condition of the home to prospective buyers and helps ease their minds. If you have access to a recent survey and appraisal, be sure to include those in the information package given to prospective buyers. Affordable Home Inspections can help answer any of your concerns. Contact us today! www.houseinspections.com
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