by James Speer | Jan 7, 2019 | Approved Professional Builder, Blog, Bridge Awards
You just made an offer on a home and you are probably wondering what the next step is. As soon as the offer is made, you should consider scheduling a home inspection.
Although not required by law, a home inspection is still a good idea that many mortgage lenders require. A home inspection will help you learn about your new home and identify potential issues, particularly in older homes.
When going through the home inspection process, here are just a few tips to keep in mind.
Schedule your Inspection as soon as possible
It is your responsibility as the buyer to schedule and pay for the inspection. You should schedule it as soon as your offer has been accepted so that you and the current owner have adequate time to address any repairs you may request, or to cancel the contract if the inspector discovers a deal-breaker. Your Realtor will help you select a home inspector.
What a Home Inspection will show
In short, a home inspection will tell you the current condition of a house, such as the systems that may need to be repaired or replaced. Most home inspections will not address cosmetic issues that do not affect the working condition of the home. You should keep in mind that no home is perfect but the inspection report should help determine if it is the perfect home for you.
Be there on Inspection Day
It is important for you to be at the home for the inspection. That is your opportunity to ask questions and learn about your new home.
Inspections for New Construction Homes
The process for a newly-constructed home is slightly different than for an existing one. You and your builder should have been meeting together throughout the construction process, but before closing, you and your builder will walk-through your new home and conduct a final inspection. During the walk-through, make a list of everything that needs attention, ensure you and your builder agree on a timetable to address your list and most importantly, be thorough to avoid any possible disagreements.
by James Speer | Jan 4, 2019 | Approved Professional Builder, Blog, Upstate Parade of Homes
Family gatherings and festive celebrations are hallmarks of the holiday season, but home safety concerns are also very characteristic of this time of year. Holiday lights and decorations brighten our homes as the days get darker, but they can also pose fire hazards.
Since travel, holiday events and shopping take us away from home more than normal, here is a quick safety checklist to help keep your home and family safe during the holidays.
Home Security
- If you have a lot of packages delivered while you away, consider installing a doorbell security camera.
- Inside your home, keep your gifts in a safe place that is not easily visible from the outside, so it is not an easy target for burglars.
- If you plan to spend the holidays away, ask a friend or neighbor to watch your home and request the post office to hold your mail.
- When you are away from home overnight, consider putting your lights on timers set to your normal living pattern.
Lights and Other Decorations
- Inspect the wiring on all holiday lights. If they are worn or frayed, throw them away to avoid any potential fire hazards.
- Use no more than three light sets on any one extension cord, don’t run electrical cords under rugs and turn decorative lights off before going to bed or leaving the house.
- Candles are a top cause of fires during the holidays. Place candles and other open flames away from decorations, never leave burning candles unattended and always supervise children and pets around candles. Better yet, use battery-operated candles instead.
Christmas Trees
- Place trees a safe distance from radiators, vents, fireplaces and any other heat source that may dry the tree. It is also important to inspect and water your tree daily.
- Do not block doors or hallways with your larger decorations.
Keep a fire extinguisher near your tree and make sure your family has a fire emergency escape plan.
by ShoesOptional | Jun 30, 2014 | Uncategorized
One of your HBA Members is offering a free home. The home is a 2 bedroom 1 bath home and needs to be moved off a property scheduled for development. While the home is free there is a cost to move the home off the property.
The move date has been scheduled so if you are interested in this home please contact the HBA office at 864-254-0133 for more information.
