5 Features to Include When You're Building a New Home

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Building a new house comes with many decisions, but the most significant benefit is deciding which features to add. When building a new home, some things to factor in are functionality, practicality, and aesthetics. When you consider all these things, you are likely to end up with a beautiful home. Below are examples of home features to consider when building.

Flexible Spaces

Most homeowners want to have rooms they can use in various ways depending on their current and future family needs. A space that can be used as a home office and a guest room or a basement that can be used as a crafts room is a big advantage to most people. Even when building townhomes, it is good to incorporate flexibility, especially if you plan to rent out the apartment in the future. According to the housing market research group Metrostudy, there has been a 20% increase in new townhome construction over the past year. Where builders started with just about 1,800 townhouses, more are about to come up this year, especially from homebuilding giants like David Weekley and other local developers. One common thing in all this is how builders want to ensure people can enjoy flexible spaces. It is an attractive factor and likely to incentivize people looking to buy townhouses.

Kitchen Finishes

Anyone in the homebuilding industry for many years understands how vital a kitchen space is to a client. This is because a kitchen is considered the heart of every home. Most people have many uses for the kitchen, like hosting guests, having family dinners, and, most importantly, cooking. Depending on your needs, some of the things you might want to add to the kitchen include under-cabinet lighting, an oversized island, walk-in pantry, open shelving on the upper cabinetry, integrated appliances, and a breakfast bar. You can pick two or three features based on your preferences and add them.

Low Maintenance Exteriors

Most homeowners look for sidings, windows, roofs, and other external features that will not require frequent maintenance. For instance, when it comes to siding, most people favor aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass compared to wood products. This is because one does not want to keep incurring repair and maintenance costs down the road. When it comes to roofs, metallic roofs are also among the preferred roofing materials. Metal roofs are durable, with a 40-70 year lifespan, depending on the material. On top of that, due to modern innovations, it is available in multiple designs and colors, giving people a wide variety to choose from.

Indoor Air Quality Systems

Most people often get surprised when they learn that the air they breathe inside their home could be more polluted than the outside air. Most homes are closed off from the world due to various reasons like bad weather, extreme heat, and allergens. This can cause the allergens and pollutants inside the house to build up. An indoor air quality system helps clean the air as it cycles. You can implement it with your HVAC system or have it separately. For instance, you may want to consider smart C02 and smoke detectors that monitor the air quality in your home. They are affordable and help you stay healthy and breathe with ease.

Open Floor Plans

This design continues to gain popularity among people building homes. Open concept floor plans integrate the living room, dining, and kitchen into one space. When combined with large windows, excellent paint color, and the right flooring, the result is a beautiful home. Large windows help bring enough light into the room, and since there are no partitions, the light flows naturally in that space. When it comes to flooring material, consider natural stone as it lasts longer than artificial stone. In addition, natural stone comes in various shades, allowing you to pick something that matches your home.

When building, there are many features to consider for a new home, so that everyone is likely to get what they want. If you are unsure, consult with a professional builder or go through home magazines for ideas.

How to Decide What to Renovate Before Moving into a New House

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There's nothing quite like the thrill of moving into a new home. But sometimes, your new home may require a little bit of TLC before you move all of your stuff in. If you've just bought your dream home, you can make it feel every bit the part if you do some renovations before moving day arrives.

So what should you get to work on? That's really up to you. It's best to take a look at the house and take inventory of what might need fixing or replacing. But there are many easy renovations you can make before you move in too. An added bonus of putting the time in before you move is that you can start and complete projects without the hassle of having to watch out for furniture or belongings.

Start Painting

It seems that every new homeowner decides to undertake a painting project at some point, whether it's repainting the kitchen or you're prepping a nursery for a newborn. By picking colors out and painting, you can really make a new home feel like your own. You can use low VOC paints to keep the air in your house clean too. You'll find it's a lot easier to paint before furniture and appliances have been moved in and it can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want to make it.

In 2016, it was estimated that more than 85% of renovations were paid for in cash or with savings. So if you've been keeping a rainy day fund for moving, you can head to your local home improvement store and pick up all that you need. If you're on a budget, you can choose an inexpensive paint or you can choose a high-end paint if you want to go that route.

Install Air Conditioning

It's estimated that more than 84% of American homes have some kind of air conditioning system. If your new home needs air conditioning, putting in the units is a good idea before you move everything else. That way you can have a nice, cool house, especially if you're moving in the summertime. On the flip side, you might also consider looking into a central air unit before you move into your home. This will eliminate the need for air conditioning units in every room and allow you to toggle between heat and air depending on the time of year.

Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone for visitors and future buyers. Enhancing your home's curb appeal before moving in can make a significant difference. According to home flipping experts, simple upgrades like repainting the front door, power-washing the driveway, adding outdoor lighting, or updating landscaping with fresh plants and mulch can significantly boost a property's value. Even small changes, such as installing stylish house numbers or a new mailbox, can elevate the look of your home and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Go Green

Another option you have before you move into your home is making your home more energy-efficient. After all, it seems most companies these days are encouraging folks to go green and do things more efficiently. If you want to go big, you can certainly do that. Consider installing something like a new energy-efficient water heater. It may cost a lot up front, but it should save you money in the long run, considering water accounts for about 18% of a home's energy use. But realistically, you don't have to go that big. You can do small, but effective things like changing out light bulbs for energy-efficient ones. You can also add weather stripping around your windows to make them less drafty, or you could install low-flow showerheads to lower your water use. Even taking little steps can make a big difference.

Endless Possibilities

Being a new homeowner can be thrilling, but it can be even more thrilling doing renovations and really putting your stamp on your homestead before you move in. There are any number of renovations and projects you can undertake before you move, and it will make a big difference in the long run.

Why Your Family Should Vacation at a Timeshare

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Is your family looking for a great place to stay on vacation, and you aren't sure exactly where you want to go? If so, you need to consider high-quality timeshares seriously. This option has become more and more popular in recent years due to the unique benefits that this option provides. Understanding why your family should own one will make it easier to identify an opportunity you enjoy. It’s also important to check reviews of timeshare cancellation companies.

Timeshares are Very Comfortable

While hotels can be pretty relaxing, a timeshare is more like a home away from home. They have separate rooms, great beds, comfortable seating areas, and much more. These benefits are enormous if you want to have a fantastic vacation with your loved ones that help everyone relax.

For families looking to explore the latest in timeshare offerings, understanding what is HGV Max can provide insights into innovative vacation options that combine luxury and convenience.

Perhaps that's why over 9.9 million families in the country own timeshares in various vacation spots. Whatever your needs, you should find a comfortable and enjoyable option that works for your loved ones and makes your vacations more enjoyable and exciting for your needs.

Timeshares Have Fewer Restrictions

While timeshare options do have restrictions, they are much fewer. And the benefits that you get (such as easy access to a pool or exercise room) help make this benefit huge for those who want to go on a vacation every year. Although, holiday goers prefer to venture out a little more and don't necessarily want to be restricted to one place, so you will find that they look for best timeshare exit companies to help assist with leaving the timeshare, but this all depends on what kind of holiday your prefer. Timeshares are certainly a popular option for those who aren't looking for as many restrictions during their holiday!

While timeshare options do have restrictions, they are much fewer. And the benefits that you get (such as easy access to a pool or exercise room) help make this benefit huge for those who want to go on a vacation every year.

Timeshares Save You Money

While you might end up paying more for a timeshare initially, you'll save yourself a lot of money in the long term. Rather than renting overpriced hotel rooms, you can go to a great and relatively inexpensive timeshare, allowing you to focus more money on different elements of your life instead.

As a result, you can rent a car that will make it easier to get around during your vacation. We strongly suggest getting a car with window tint, as it can block 99% of harmful UV light and keep your loved ones safe from sunburns or even the risk of problematic melanoma dangers.

Timeshares Create Easier Accessibility

One of the most frustrating things about going on vacation is finding a place to stay the night when you get to where you want to go. However, if you book a timeshare in advance and work around its schedule, you will have a great place to stay that is immediately accessible.

Even better, you can walk into your timeshare and feel like you're at home right away. Unlike hotels, a timeshare is usually quite large, allowing you to relax in comfort and enjoy yourself. This benefit is critical for those who want to minimize their issues with finding a place to live.

Timeshares Can Be Insured

Lastly, you can ensure a timeshare in ways you can't if you rent a hotel room. This benefit is critical because it can make sure that your items are protected. And it will also help to give you the ability to protect the timeshare, as well. So in a sense, it works a lot like renters insurance.

When buying insurance, your cost will vary based on the property and the type of protection you want. Typically, you'll end up paying about 0.5% of the purchase price for the timeshare. So keep this factor in mind when you decide to buy a timeshare and use one for your vacation needs.

By now, you should know if a timeshare is right for your family or not or if the timeshare if you have is a timeshare sales scams. You might be surprised at just how many unique options are available and how well they work with most rental needs. With timeshare as a family vacation option, your memories will reflect the words in the best family adventure quotes.


How to Stock Your New Home for Back-to-School Sickness Season

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Whether you rent or own, it's important to get your home into shape from the back-to-school sickness season. Roughly 50% of all cold cases occur during the fall and spring, making them more likely to be picked up at school. Although we wish we could avoid it, it's, unfortunately, a very common occurrence. To help you prepare, here is what you need to know.

1. Stock Up On the Necessities

There are a few things that you need to keep in your home for when sickness rolls around. A thermometer, for instance, will be essential for helping to pinpoint a fever -- which usually ranges between 100.4 F and 104 F. You'll also want to keep lots of easy to digest soups on hand, electrolyte filled drinks for hydration, and disinfectants to help prevent the illness from spreading around the house.

2. Stock Up On Immune Boosting Foods

Although it's good to keep things on hand for when sickness occurs, it's also important to stock up on things to prevent it. Antioxidant-rich foods like the maqui berry have an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of 19,850 per every 100 mg. Similarly, fresh blueberries have a slightly higher ORAC value of 21,080 per every 100 mg. Adding foods like this to your kid's lunches or using them as a snack when they come home, can help boost their immune systems and keep them from catching anything during the school year.

3. Stock Up On Medicine

You don't want to wait until someone is sick to run out and get medicine, so it's important to keep some key OTC medications on hand at all times. Some of the most important include:

  • Aspirin

  • Acetaminophen

  • Ibuprofen

  • Decongestants

  • Antihistamines

  • Cough syrup

  • Tums

All of these are important to keep on hand so that you're prepared to tackle a whole range of problems, no matter when they occur. However, it should be noted that if a problem doesn't get better in a couple of days, you should always speak to your doctor to see if a prescription is needed.

4. Masks

Depending on where you live, some schools may require students to wear masks during classes. You can stock up on reusable masks so that your kids have a clean one for every school day. These masks can also be used in the home if someone gets sick, and they can wear them when they leave their rooms, or if someone needs to check on them. This can further help to keep the illness from spreading around your home and putting everyone under the weather.

5. Buy a Sanitizing Laundry Detergent

To help ensure that clothes, sheets, and towels get as clean as possible -- especially if someone's been sick -- you should keep a disinfecting laundry detergent on hand. These laundry detergents can help kill additional bacteria and keep illness from spreading. There are many different sanitizing detergents available in stores, and some are designed to be added alongside your usual detergent. This means you won't have to give up your preferred brand, but can still benefit from the added cleaning power of the disinfectant.

Staying Healthy All School-Year Long

Although it can be difficult -- if not seemingly impossible -- to keep your kids healthy the whole school year, with some preparation you can help increase their chances of staying healthy. However, it's always good to keep a stock of medicine and necessities just in case they do fall ill. Keep these five tips in mind, and you can help make your home as ready as possible for the coming school year.

Tips for Buying Your First House with a Partner

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Couples in long-term relationships have different obstacles to overcome to make their lives better. The rising costs of rent and economic uncertainties are among the obstacles they must overcome to meet their objectives. These factors push couples to look for the best and practical ways to make their lives easier. Buying a house remains one of the practical ways that unmarried couples opt for. While this is a good idea, it is still important to consider the following tips for buying a house with a partner.

Evaluate Your Relationship and Finances

Buying a house with a partner is a big step in any relationship. An unmarried couple should be sure of the direction they are taking before making such a decision. It will serve their interest to evaluate the relationship before taking further steps in buying a house. It is important to ascertain that your partner can handle hardships and the related obstacles to owning a house. Most couples date for five years, on average, before settling down and deciding on getting married. Within this period, chances of a couple breaking up due to conflicting interests are higher. Finances are among the major causes of breakups. So, before buying your first house with your partner, ensure that you evaluate the relationship to make the right decisions.

Create Separate Must-Have Lists

Couples can disagree on even the smallest of issues. For the relationship to be productive, a couple needs to have many things they can agree on to lower the chances of conflicts. Create a must-have list and compare the things you feel the house should have before engaging in the house buying process. You will find it easier to streamline the process when selecting the right house. The location, the number of rooms, the size of the backyard, and the type of roofing materials are among the many things that should be on the must-have list. You should note that in North America, roof shingles are the commonly used material. This is on about 75% of all houses present. As a couple, you should have a must-have list to create a level ground for the things needed in the house.

Decide Who Is Applying for the Mortgage

You and your partner need to compare mortgage options and determine who is applying for the home loan before the search. This is crucial because buying a house is a commitment that needs everyone on board. You should understand that applying for a mortgage is like separate individuals for unmarried couples. This also means that you should evaluate your financial standing and agree on the best person to apply for the mortgage. You should be keen on personal needs such as rent costs that you are currently handling as they influence your financial preparation.

Decide How You Will Split Costs

If you reached a cohabitation property agreement on the house buying process, you still need to clarify the pending costs within the house. You need to furnish the house and make it hospitable and comfortable. It is important to decide on how you will split the costs and settle the additional house expenses. You should decide if buying a carpet is the right choice and how you will maintain it. On average, a carpet should last up to 15 years. This is after proper care and maintenance efforts. These additional expenses can be costly, and as a couple, you should decide how to split the costs.

Look for a Realtor to Mediate the Process

You need to have a professional who will listen to your dispute as a couple and help find effective ways to bridge the gap. There are also legal requirements that you should meet as an unmarried couple that calls for professional guidance. The experience and intimate knowledge of the market are what you need to streamline the house buying process. Working with a realtor makes it easier to find and buy and your first house with a partner.

Many stressful situations are present in life, and buying your first house with a partner is among the major ones. While you might find it easier to rent and cohabit with a partner, buying a house calls for proper information, guidance, and sane decision-making. Consider the above discussion and employ the highlighted tips to achieve your objectives.

3 Things You Need to Grow an Awesome Vegetable Garden

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Nothing is more exciting than picking home-grown vegetables from your very own garden when the harvest season arrives. Of course, before you can pick your veggies, you need to grow them first. The good news is that, if you're growing a vegetable garden from scratch, getting started isn't as hard as it looks. Here are three essential things you need to get your vegetable garden started so you can happily reap what you sow.

A Small Patch of Yard

While 75% of homeowners will set aside money for a home improvement project, it's still a good idea to start off with a small patch of your yard before you invest a lot of time, money, and energy into a massive garden. It's typically recommended to start off with a spot that's 6x6 feet. 

Starting off small isn't just a good way to save money but also helps you determine whether you've chosen the right spot for your garden. For instance, the spot you choose might seem ideal with lots of sun, but sometimes too much direct sunlight can cook your plants. See how your plants grow in the spot where you plant them and if it all goes according to plan, spread out your garden by another few feet.

Quality Gardening Tools

You don't need to spend an arm and a leg on gardening equipment to get your vegetable garden started, but you do want to have a few high-quality tools at your disposal to make life easier. The main tools you want include a garden knife, garden fork, hand and garden spades, shovel, garden shears, a leaf rake, and secateurs.

Do some research online to find the right gardening equipment for you. Approximately 90% of users haven't made up their minds about a specific brand before they begin an online search, and many users rely on reviews before making a purchase. Amazon, which has a peak traffic volume of 2.3 Tbps, is a common source for gardening equipment, but you can also shop locally at a garden center or buy quality garden equipment used on eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.

Vegetables You Love

When you're just starting out growing a vegetable garden, it can be tempting to reach for seed packets for vegetables that are aesthetically pleasing or easy to grow. Additionally, exploring options like mushroom grow kits can add variety and excitement to your gardening experience. But it's best to grow vegetables that you actually love to eat. The reason for this is because you'll be more likely to be invested in caring for vegetables that you love. It's also because, when the time comes to reap the benefits of owning a vegetable garden, you might be surprised by the sheer number of veggies your garden gives you. If you're stuck eating veggies you don't care for in an effort not to let them go to waste, you won't be too happy.

Growing a vegetable garden can be an amazing experience and it definitely gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment when everything goes well. If you're interested in starting a garden of your own this summer, be sure to follow the tips above to start off on the right foot.


10 Home Improvements to Make Before Moving Into a New Place

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These upgrades can be done at any time, although everything is easier to reach in an empty room. Consider adding extra electrical outlets or renovating existing ones if you're moving into an older home, especially one built before the mid-1990s. Many older homes lack the electrical capacity to accommodate a large number of electronics. An electrical repair in Orlando, FL takes care of outlet repair and replacement. Additional outlets in your rooms can help you arrange furnishings, such as computers, speakers, and gaming systems, as well as provide space for everyone to charge their phones. Consider adding programmable thermostats and light fixtures to your electrical renovations.So you've discovered the perfect home or apartment, and it's understandable that you'd like to move in as soon as possible. However, before calling the moving company, let your imagination run wild and consider making the following home improvements.

Get Rid Of Popcorn Ceiling

Your home may feature textured walls and ceilings if it was built before the 1990s. Although the popcorn style was once very fashionable, it has since become obsolete. These walls and ceilings may contain asbestos, in addition to being an eyesore. Removing the texturing is a simple yet messy procedure. So, save yourself the trouble and take care of this before you move in. Popcorn ceilings are fairly easy to take down. Spraying water over the texture to soften it makes scraping it off with a putty knife much easier. Even though it is a technological operation, it is best done when no humans or furniture are present.

Install a New Roof

Any large leak might cause significant harm to your house over time. To minimize mold, mildew, and rotting wood, you should repair any gaps in your roof as soon as possible or consider installing a new one. About 75% of all houses in North America are outfitted with roof shingles. In order to prevent damage to the existing building structure, the roof structure or roof insulation must be rebuilt immediately. This can be especially important if the damage has occurred due to a storm or natural disaster. Heavy damages due to storms can pose a significant threat to the residents of the home, which is why it is crucial to look for a storm damage roof repair company if this is the case for you.

Redo The Floors Or Install Carpet

Even while you can do it after you move in, it is far quicker to refinish floors, pull up and replace existing flooring, or install carpet before the furniture is put in. While your property is still empty, you can have the flooring contractors repair any additional damaged subflooring areas or replace the baseboard trim.

Update the Landscaping

It's important to think about the impact landscaping can have when moving into your new home. While most basic landscaping work may be done after you've moved in, home renovations like tree removal and tree planting are better to start and accomplish before you've moved in completely. Since 90% of Americans desire to live in homes surrounded by grass lawns, you may like to consider installing a lawn, or just make sure the one already there is well taken care of.

Selecting the perfect grass is the most important part, and drought-resistant TifTuf Bermuda grass stands out as an ideal option for every homeowner. It flourishes in hot, dry summers and is extremely cold-hardy, ensuring your lawn stays lush and green with minimal upkeep.

Make Childproofing a Priority

Never put off taking the essential precautions to protect your children from household risks until after you've moved in. Before the little ones arrive through the door, make whatever childproofing improvements you need to make, such as covering outlets, locking cabinets, or putting corner and edge bumpers. If the previous owners installed childproofing, make careful to double-check each safety fixture to ensure it is in good working order.

Paint

Consider the hassle of removing all of the furniture from a room before painting it. Thankfully, you can prevent a potential problem, since it's easier to paint an empty room than it is to paint a full space, whether you're doing it yourself or hiring a professional. There will be no need to safeguard or be concerned about damage to your furniture, drapery, clothing, mirrors, or other prized possessions. If you're having trouble deciding on a color scheme for your new house, start with a neutral and clean white, pastel, or beige and build from there as you gain a sense of the space.

Change The Locks

You can't put your family's safety at risk just because the prior homeowner appeared trustworthy or polite. Furthermore, you have no idea how many other people have a copy of this key. Before you move in, have a locksmith replace all of the locks to eliminate any security issues. The only way to restrict who has access to your home is to do so. Remember to secure the back door and garage door, as well as any sheds or other structures on your property, when installing the locks.

Make Electrical Upgrades

These upgrades can be done at any time, although everything is easier to reach in an empty room. Consider adding extra electrical outlets or renovating existing ones if you're moving into an older home, especially one built before the mid-1990s. Many older homes lack the electrical capacity to accommodate a large number of electronics. Additional outlets in your rooms can help you arrange furnishings, such as computers, speakers, and gaming systems, as well as provide space for everyone to charge their phones. Consider adding programmable thermostats and light fixtures to your electrical renovations.

Renovate Your Bathroom

One of the most inconvenient aspects of a renovation is the lack of a bathroom. It isn't a big deal if you have a second bathroom that has already been updated. However, if there is just one bathroom in the house or both bathrooms are in need of a makeover, it is preferable to do these tasks before everyone moves in. Bathrooms, like kitchens, are a popular remodeling project for homes. To extend your bathroom, you may choose to replace a bathtub with a walk-in shower, incorporate some current bathroom design trends, or even borrow space from another room or closet. If you want to make changes to the bathrooms in your new house, you should get them done before you move in. This way, you can start using your lovely new bathroom right away.

Upgrade Your Closet

Your closets would most likely be the first thing to become messy in your new home. Closets tend to become cluttered before the move is complete. It's more difficult to see how to maximize storage after it's completely full. Install extra shelving and other closet fixtures before these spaces are filled to make the room more functional and appealing.

Moving is difficult, especially if there is work to be done before you can settle in completely. Each year, falling trees inflict over $1 billion in property damage, according to the National Storm Damage Center. Prioritizing these home improvements, like landscaping, can help you settle safely without unnecessary costs in the future after moving into your new home.

How to Find an Eco-Friendly Home When You're House Hunting

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When you're looking for a place to live, eco-friendliness often comes to the top of your must-have list. Here's how you can find an eco-friendly apartment to call a home.

Why Find An Eco-Friendly Home?

It is true that most houses and apartments were not built with the goal of preserving the environment in mind. Just because things are like this doesn't mean you have to follow the crowd, though. Caring about the planet is the right thing to do. After all, it is our home. The North American continent is at the forefront of absorbing the need to protect the environment. For instance, each year more than 80 million tons of steel is recycled, and that is almost 69 percent of all steel! Individual calls to be eco-friendly also relate to house hunting an eco-friendly apartment. Here's how you can get started.

Work With Your Real Estate Agent

With the average American having moved six times by the age of 30, real estate agents have risen to accommodate the everyday house hunter. Real estate agents know houses. It's their job, after all. While some prefer to save money by looking for houses themselves, real estate agents know the kind of houses in their respective areas. Your real estate agent is one of your greatest resources when looking for an eco-friendly home.

Do Your Personal Research

Thanks to technology, information is now right under your nose with the Internet and everything. The days of visiting libraries and rubbing the thick dust off the library shelves to look for books are behind us. Due to the popularity of environmental campaigns, websites dedicated to disseminating eco-friendly information have been created. Here you can find information about available eco-friendly apartments. Using this research to help your real estate agent select homes that fit your lifestyle and meet your desires can be incredibly handy.

Examine Your Lifestyle

It is habitual for house hunters to look for a house that they can afford, and that satisfies their lifestyle. Would you consider your lifestyle eco-friendly? If so, you need to find an apartment that maintains your eco-friendly peculiarities. Of course, it's possible that the eco-friendly homes you tour won't meet all of your desires. But that's okay because you can always do a little home improvement. Considering that solar power contributed only 2% towards the generation of electricity in the United States in 2017, your action contributes to more homes powered by renewable energy sources.

Consider The Location

House hunting for an eco-friendly place also involves what you use yourself in your everyday business. If you use plastic bottles to store water, that's a great way of recycling them. However, plastic is prone to fire. A burnt plastic bottle has outlived its purpose, it's thrown away. In contrast, steel containers are durable and they last longer. No wonder they have been used for more than 150 years to collect and transport water. You could move into an apartment in the vicinity of a steel product company to get easier access to steel containers. In searching for an eco-friendly place, location is key.

Finding an eco-friendly apartment is easy when you know what to look for. You just need to communicate with your real estate agent about your eco-friendly preferences that are backed by research and self scrutiny.

Key Features to Look for While House Hunting

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Buying a home can be stressful at any time. But an understanding of the key steps can help you reach your goal and make your dream a reality. The first thing you need to determine is how much you want to spend, the location of your new home, and what amenities you would like. Here's what you need to know.

Ask Yourself Some Preliminary Questions

Before you purchase a home, or even start looking, it's important to ask yourself some preliminary questions. Here are a few of the most important questions you need to ask yourself.

  • Am I going to have a mortgage?

  • Do I have a down payment?

  • Can I afford my desired location?

  • Are property values increasing or decreasing in the neighborhood?

  • Will there be a lengthy commute?

  • Is the school district desirable?

  • Is it within walking distance to activities and amenities?

Once you have the answers to these questions, you can start your home search.

Things to Consider When Touring Homes

When you begin visiting homes, be sure to consider the home's overall "health" so you'll be aware of any potential expenses or challenges you may face if you decide to submit an offer. Ultimately, the inspection will give you an official report of the home's condition and quality, but be aware of the following:

  • Structural cracking and defects

  • Water pressure and plumbing

  • Electrical issues

  • Doors and windows

  • Roof and exterior quality

  • HVAC system

When you're performing these cursory checks, make sure you check to see if the filters on the furnace and air conditioner have been replaced. You can reduce energy consumption by 5% to 15% with proper maintenance.

Remember to Look at Storage Space

Make sure you allow yourself enough time to take a thorough inventory of all your possessions. One of the most important things in any home is the amount of storage space. If you currently do not have enough, make sure your new home has plenty for all your things or downsize.

If you trim down the amount of "stuff" you have, you can possibly consider a smaller home. But if you find you cannot part with your things, consider storage. There are many storage facilities around every town, so there will probably be one near your new home. Prices are down considerably at storage facilities. Small storage spaces are down nearly 46%, medium spaces by 42%, and large spaces by 31%. It is a perfect solution for those having a problem parting with their property.

HOAs

Many single-family residential communities have a homeowner's association (HOA) structure to maintain a clean and cohesive atmosphere in the neighborhood. Also, when you buy a condominium, apartment, or townhouse within a planned development, you will also encounter the HOA structure.

As many Americans have a 25% chance of buying a home that's a part of an HOA, you must consider if you're willing to pay or can afford to pay the monthly association dues. The HOAs generally cover common areas such as neighborhood parks, green spaces, sidewalks, swimming pools, and trash removal. In a single-family residential HOA structure, homeowners are responsible for their own home and yard maintenance.

While home buying can be a challenging experience, it can also be fun and exciting. If you do your homework ahead of time, prepare to be organized, and know going forward what you want in your new property, you will enjoy the experience.

Which Home Renovations Will Help Improve Your Family's Health?

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Research shows 50% of houses available on the market are at least 40 years old, which increases the likelihood of health problems. But regardless of how old your home is, some renovation projects are worth prioritizing, considering you likely want to keep your family healthy. Here are a few home renovation projects that can improve your family's health.

Paint Jobs for Healthy Living

There's a particular way homes should be repainted. Of course, you'll need primer and perhaps sandpaper, but homes built before 1978 may contain lead. Lead poisoning is bad news and can happen if sandpaper is used before applying nontoxic paint. Therefore, the paint you use should contain low-volatile organic compounds (VOC).

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, VOC consists of a variety of harmful chemicals that may affect indoor air quality. Without these chemicals, your family may not experience headaches and other adverse health effects. Some low or non-VOC paint brands include:

  • Benjamin Moore Natura

  • Go Green World Products

  • Shermin-Williams Harmony

  • Clare

  • Bioshield Healthy Living Paints

Bathroom Renovation

Many homeowners use cleaning products with harsh chemicals that can linger after living in the same bathroom setup. But installing a new shower or retiling floors can eliminate mold and mildew which comes from condensation the naked eye might not notice. Because of the moisture in your bathroom, this particular renovation should be prioritized.

Roof Repair

From replacing shingles to adding flashing and underlayment, roof repair and replacement can go a long way in keeping your family safe. Without a secure roof, your family will be prone to leakage and the resulting water damage and mold. In the event of outdoor air pollution, roof repair can also protect your family from being exposed to more pollutants than usual.

Clean Water for Your Family's Health

What about a whole-house water filtration system? Well, if there's one strenuous job that requires hydration, it's moving from one home to another. Research shows more than half of all moves take place during the summer, between the beginning of May and Labor Day. That's heat and dehydration which can be remedied only with fresh, cool, drinkable water. A whole-house water filter system can cleanse your water of chlorine and harmful bacteria so you can take a nice shower or enjoy a glass of cold water.

Health and Home Offices

Homeowners may not always think of mental health when renovating their homes. But adding or renovating a home office separates work from leisure, resulting in decreased anxiety and stress. Simply think of how good it feels to unwind after a long day of work and relax on the couch. That's harder to do when you're working at your kitchen table instead of your home office.

  • Remodeling can free up space for deep cleaning

  • Drywall repair rids the home of toxins and chemicals buried deep within the home

  • Restructuring can completely eliminate clutter, lower anxiety, and improve air quality

Window Installation and Ventilation Improvements

Unclean indoor air triggers asthma symptoms and other lung illnesses. All health problems are scary, but unlike many health risks, the effects of indoor air pollution can sneak up on unsuspecting families, causing illnesses and worse. According to the U. S. Department of Energy, air leaks around your windows and doors can add 10% to your heating bills. However, exterior shading such as overhangs and exterior blinds can improve efficiency.

From applying a fresh coat of paint to making sure your roof is in tip-top shape, the right renovations can keep your family healthy for years to come. If you're ever in doubt, trust that the research shows that indoor air pollution, mold, and unsanitary water can hurt your family without you noticing. So going forward, consider these renovations to make your home feel as good as it looks.

What to Look for When House Hunting in a New Neighborhood

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Moving out of your apartment and into a home is a significant life change. Not only do you have the opportunity to live in a new space, but a new home also gives you the chance to build wealth. Buying a home is exciting but also permanent. You should, therefore, choose a neighborhood that satisfies your lifestyle for many years.

What should you look for when house hunting in a new neighborhood? Read on to find out.

Home Prices

Rising home values are a sign of a good neighborhood. You may want to consider a community where home values are climbing at rates higher than the national average.

The median price of single-family homes is about $232,000, according to the National Association of Realtors. It is ideal for you to pick a home in a neighborhood that is growing at least 10% faster than the national average.

One way to ensure that you are moving into a community that values rising home prices is by taking a look at the condition of the houses on the block. The life expectancy of a TPO roof is about 20 years, whereas an EPDM roof may only last 15 years. A PVC roof can last up to 30 years.

You should be mindful when the homes in the community you are considering have roofs in need of replacing. Such could be a sign of neglect, which could lead to lower home values overall.

Income And Jobs

Employment is another factor you should take into account when thinking of where to purchase your new home. High unemployment rates and low incomes are signs of a community headed in a downward spiral. Homeowners are not able to make major renovations if they barely earn enough to cover the mortgage.

You should consider neighborhoods in which the median income is well above the national average. It may also be beneficial to look for homes in communities where major corporations are building work hubs nearby. Not only do such offices add to home values in the neighborhood, but new job opportunities also create more earning potential overall.

If you are in search of a home, Precondo has the perfect neighborhood that is spacious and luxurious at Woodbridge. The community offers a variety of shopping, food, and scenic views that is bustling with economic activity

Schools And Safety

Schools are important even if you have no plans of rearing children in the near future. Realtor.com recently conducted a survey in which 91% of prospective homebuyers expressed the importance of nearby schools in their search for the right residence. Schools that excel academically are especially instrumental in raising home values, which adds to your overall wealth.

Of course, in addition to good education, there is also the matter of safety. There were nearly 750,000 hit-and-run accidents in 2015. Such a rate accounted for 11.7% of all recorded accidents that year.

You do not want to move into a community with a high probability of you being rear-ended when backing out of your driveway. It is best to find a home in a community in which the residents take pride in obeying traffic rules. Such an honor for the law could lead to lower auto insurance rates.

New Home Construction

Shutters grew in popularity by 15% in 2019. Wouldn't it be great to see these types of blinds in the windows of newly constructed homes on your block?

Some prospective homebuyers shy away from new construction for fear of being priced out of their homes in the future. Newly built homes in the community, however, are a sign of an evolving neighborhood, which is what you want as a new homeowner.

The new construction adds to your home's value. Your mortgage, meanwhile, can remain at a reasonable rate as long as you purchase before the new community is established.

Buying a new home is an exciting time in your life. You should, however, not run to the community that offers the cheapest real estate unless there are clear benefits for such a financial move. Ideally, you want to purchase your new home in a community with rising home values, a growing job market, and excellent schools. These factors will ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

Replacing My Furnace In NYC

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If you own a home in NYC, then you know first-hand how brutal winters in New York City can be. You also know how cold it can get at night during fall and spring. Undoubtedly, you cannot survive in NYC without a dependable furnace. Therefore, you must know when it's time to replace your furnace to keep your home reliably heated throughout the cold seasons.

The following signs will tell you that it's time to replace your furnace.

Your Furnace Is More Than a Decade Old

Typically, most furnaces are designed to have a service life of between 15 and 20 years. When your furnace repeatedly fails to heat your home even after several repairs, it may be a sign of wear and tear. Particularly if your furnace has served you for more than ten years, it's a good sign that you need to replace it. The lifespan of your furnace can be longer or shorter depending on the quality of installation and how well you maintain it.

You Are Experiencing Humidity Problems in Your Home

If you observe that the air in your home is excessively dry in the winter and too humid during summer, your furnace may be to blame. Having humidity problems in your home is a health hazard. Frequent exposure to dry air can trigger respiratory ailments. In extreme cases, you or other family members living in your NYC home can get asthma, bronchitis, or catch a common cold.

To avoid jeopardizing your health, you should replace your furnace immediately you start having humidity problems in your home. A functional furnace improves indoor air quality. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the typical American spends 93% of their life indoors.

This means that quality air in your home will enhance your health and increase your life expectancy. As it stands, the average service life of an American is 78 years. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, a child born in 2015 has an expected lifespan of 78.8 years. For a female child, life expectancy is 81.2 years, while that of a male child is 76.5 years. Significant differences also correlate with regions of the U.S., income, and other factors that include the capacity to retain quality indoor air in a home in all seasons. That's why it's of the utmost importance to replace your furnace whenever you have humidity problems in your home.

Your Furnace Keeps Leaking Even After Multiple Repairs

Sometimes water may leak from your furnace because of excess condensation, blocked drainage, wrong flue size on your standard-efficiency furnace, or when the whole-house humidifier leaks into the furnace. This causes puddles to form under the furnace and spread to the floor over time, exposing you to fall accidents. It's estimated that 22% of slip accidents cause people to miss work for more than 31 days.

While a leaking furnace may still heat your home, it will eventually break down if you don't have it fixed by a professional HVAC technician. However, if the problem persists after multiple repairs, it's a sign that you should replace your furnace right away.

You Hear Loud Unusual Noises From the Furnace

Unusual loud noises from your furnace may mean that there are some loose parts in the unit, or cracks and leaks have developed in your furnace. Mostly, these problems are triggered by wear and tear or poor maintenance. If the noises persist even after one or two repairs, you should consider replacing your furnace.

You want to keep your NYC home sufficiently heated in all seasons. This means that you must keep your furnace operating optimally. If your furnace is more than ten years old and doesn't heat your home well, you should consider installing a new unit. It's more cost-effective to replace an old and problematic furnace than to have it repaired.