13 things to consider when buying a house

Buying a house is an emotional decision because you choose a place that will become special and contain all the emotions and moments of your life.

But your decision must also take into account your rational needs. A house must guarantee reliability and safety over time. Especially if you take out a mortgage to buy the property as it becomes a long-term commitment.

Naturally, we wonder what to look for in a property when looking to buy. Here are 13 essential things you need to take into account.

1. The average cost of houses in the area

Before buying a house, analyze the trends in the local real estate market:

• Find out the average square footage of the apartments in your areas of interest.

• Discover the average price of properties per square foot.

• Monitor the local market performance to check if it’s a favorable moment to buy a house in this location.

This information will allow you to evaluate all available proposals realistically, understanding if they align with your personal needs or if it’s better to focus on researching a different area.

2. House condition

If you’re already interested in a property, organize a thorough inspection that will give you insights into its condition. Get help from competent professionals who can provide you with technical answers regarding different aspects of the house, such as:

• The electrical system may be old and have lost its insulation capacity, and you may have to redo it. Rely on a technician for the appropriate checks.

• Plumbing system: check externally and internally if there are leaks in the pipes and ducts and if the pressure and color of the tap water seem fine.

• Stability of the house: check if it has large cracks that could compromise the safety of the home.

• The general condition of the structure: check the state of the floors, doors, windows, fixtures, and tiles. Any damage may result in extra costs that you can report when negotiating the final price.

• Air and light: if the air can circulate well in the house, there won’t be problems with humidity, mold, and pests. Also, visit the house during the day, checking how much natural light comes in and how bright it is.

  3. Necessary documents

Check that all the property documentation is in order. Some crucial papers to consider include:

• Property title – a document that certifies ownership and traces changes in ownership over the years. Ensure that the last owner stated in the paper is the seller.

• Seller's identity documents. Verify the identity of the seller and their right to sell the property. 

• Building permits that guarantee that any changes to the property are legal. When you purchase a property, you also take over the responsibility for unpermitted modifications.

• Purchase agreement – the contract between the buyer and the seller.

• Home inspection report, which describes the condition of the house in detail.

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) certifies the house's energy efficiency. This document contains information on the property's typical energy costs and advises on reducing energy consumption to make the property more efficient and eco-friendly.

  4. Renovation

If a house fits your needs but needs updates, repairs and improvements, make sure you have the time and budget for a renovation.

Additionally, building codes may have changed over the years, so the house may need some changes to adapt to the new regulations. A real estate agent can help you get this information.

5. Appliances

Evaluate the current appliances in the house and if they need replacements.

These can be expensive to replace, but upgraded appliances can be more functional and sustainable, consuming less energy.

This is a fundamental step to reducing the environmental impact of your home.

6. Homeowner's Association Details

A knowledgeable real estate agent can also help you determine if a Homeowner's Association (HOA) or other similar associations exist in your area. If so, read their requirements.

HOAs can impose many rules or monthly fees.

For example, if you want to change something in your future house, you should first check with the local HOA if it is allowed.

7. Garage or parking space

A garage adds value to a property. It keeps the car safe and adds additional square footage that you can use to build a home gym or as storage. Alternatively, a private parking spot also provides comfort in easily parking your car.

If your house does not have a garage or a parking spot, look around the area to understand if it is difficult to park there. Looking for a place to park can be stressful and time-consuming every time you return home.

8. Location and neighborhood

The location of the house is crucial, and so is the neighborhood. You should check whether the setting is family-friendly and quiet day and night.

As you walk around the neighborhood, try to meet some neighbors to ask for more information about the facilities and people in the area.

Look for a home with friendly neighbors and a good residential atmosphere.

9. Infrastructure

Consider the neighborhood transportation network and how easy it is to get there by road or public transport. 

You must also check for reliable phone and internet coverage, sufficient water supply, street lighting, etc.

The more accessible your neighborhood, the more comfortable it is to live there.

10. Parks and green areas

Parks and green areas are vital assets to every neighborhood. They bring enormous benefits to everyday life, such as purifying the air and lowering the temperature inside cities. They also help us stay in contact with nature, and in urban areas, parks may be the only option for residents to enjoy nature and stay active.

A case in point is the Kitsilano Community Center, located within Connaught Park in Vancouver, which offers many services to residents. The Center contributes to the community's identity and provides active and passive recreational opportunities for all ages.

It offers various programs, from health and fitness to arts and culture, in single classes or day camps. Participants of all ages can build connections within their community while pursuing personal development and enjoying their leisure time.

11. Schools and Colleges

Parents or couples looking to have a family should also confirm whether there is a good school in the neighborhood. This will make travel easier and faster, simplify everyday life, and ensure quality education for children.

The schools' presence also facilitates communication between families in the same community, creating relationships of trust and support.

In addition, some high schools nowadays offer services that improve residents' health and well-being by creating community centers.

12. Facilities in the neighborhood

A functional neighborhood must have certain shops and services.

These facilities include grocery stores, pharmacies, a bakery, a bookstore, and gyms

Other convenient facilities to have nearby are restaurants, bars, clothing stores or shopping malls, a car mechanic, and a laundry

Having these services close by will limit travel outside of the neighborhood.

13. Crime

One aspect that should not be underestimated is the crime rate. Make sure the house you want to buy is in a quiet, clean, and well-maintained neighborhood where you don't need to install a burglar alarm immediately.

You can check the crime rate in the neighborhood online. Taking a tour around the area can help you get an idea of ​​what to expect.

Final thoughts

Now you know the main things to consider when buying a new home. You have the information to find the right fit in a neighborhood that covers all your needs.

If you need help, you can contact a real estate agent and communicate your requirements.

Enjoy your research!

Author bio

Alice Ibba has graduated in Architecture and is working as a freelancer, combining her passions for interior design, holistic wellness, sustainability, psychology, and graphic design. She defines herself as a multipotentialite. You can get in touch with her on LinkedIn.

Tips on What to Do When Your HVAC System Needs Maintenance

It's the winter season again, and your HVAC system could be on the verge of a breakdown. Understanding what to do when your HVAC system needs maintenance is imperative to ensure that you avoid a hefty repair bill later on. This article will teach you when it's time for maintenance and how to complete it safely.

1. Why Do I Need Maintenance?

Before rushing out to buy a new system, remember that there are a lot of benefits to getting the old one serviced. For one, if it breaks down mid-winter, you'll need a service provider to fix it immediately. If your unit is under warranty, it will take less time for a professional to diagnose and fix the problem, saving you money on new equipment.

Additionally, regular HVAC maintenance helps save energy use over time – which could make all the difference in the cost of your HVAC system. According to a U.S. Department of Energy report, most equipment breaks down because of poor maintenance – not just because the unit has reached its end of life. Regular maintenance can help eliminate this problem by ensuring your system is always working efficiently.

2. How Do I Know When Maintenance is needed?

The best way to tell if your HVAC unit needs maintenance is to look for signs of poor performance in your system. These signs can include:

•The system running is a sign that there's something wrong with the system and that your unit could need maintenance.

•Loud noises or unusual smells are coming from your system – this could indicate a problem with the unit. The noises may be the sound of something not working properly – for example, an air handler clattering against each other when it should be quiet. The smells could be from a leaking part or corroded elements.

3. How Do I Complete Maintenance Properly?

There are many ways that you can complete your maintenance requirements. Since it's best to have a professional with experience with HVAC systems complete the work, many people trust their local HVAC Company to do this.

Preventative maintenance is one of the most important parts of maintaining your HVAC system. Preventative maintenance often involves replacing filters, checking ducts, and performing tune-ups on electrical components of the system. If you want to keep your system running efficiently and safely, you should set up a schedule for preventative maintenance. Call an HVAC technician each season, especially if your system is older and you haven't had any major issues with it in the past. Doing this will ensure that the entire unit is running at optimal performance.

It would help if you also had regular tune-ups performed by an HVAC technician. Tune-ups include cleaning out the condenser, checking all of the capacitors and moving parts of the unit, and performing a leak test on all of the gas components of the system. This can be performed annually or every other year, depending on your location, but experts recommend doing it at least once every other year for optimal performance.

Part of taking care of your system includes keeping it lubricated. If you notice that the system is running louder than usual or is less efficient, you can have it serviced. This will protect your unit from damage and help extend certain components' life. An HVAC technician will carry a can of lubricant with them and apply it to the various moving parts of the system during a tune-up. If you've been having noise issues for a long time, you may need to have this done more than once before the source is found and resolved.

It would help if you always were looking for leaks in your HVAC system. Use a flashlight to check your pipes and electric components for spots of moisture or condensation. If you find any, you may need to call an HVAC technician. Depending on the leak's source, you may also need to call a plumber. These leaks can result in mold or other damage that is hard to fix without professional help.

Conclusion

Your HVAC system is an important investment in your home's comfort. It's important to keep it running properly for your and your family's safety. Performing preventative maintenance is a great way to keep it running properly and protect it from damage. If any of your unit's components start malfunctioning, or if you notice that something has changed about the way the unit is functioning, you should call an HVAC technician right away. They can help you diagnose problems and suggest ways to improve your home's performance to save money while maintaining comfort.

Guest Contributor: Hannah Boothe

7 Subtle Signs That Your Sewer Line is in Need of Replacement

Sewer lines are one of those things you hope never go bad, as the results can be catastrophic when it does. A broken sewer line can damage foundation, contaminate drinking water, and backing up sewage are some of its possible effects.

The good news is that a few warning signs can let you know it is time for sewer line installation before it becomes a major problem. Read this article to know the signs to look out for.

Calling a professional to examine your sewage line and provide a replacement cost estimate is necessary if you see any of these signs. A new sewage line installation is a small price to pay for peace of mind, so don't wait until it's too late!

#1. The slow draining of water

Every home has a main water line that supplies fresh, clean water and a sewer line that removes wastewater to the septic tank or main sewer line outside. When you start noticing that the water is not coming out with as much pressure as it should in your shower, it is a sign that you have a main water line issue.

On the other hand, if you notice that the water drains more slowly than usual, you may have a sewage line issue that is still draining. Get a plunger to unclog your drain. If the wastewater is still draining slowly, there is a possibility that you have blockage down the sewer line. Again, it is a problem that a plumber should handle. Never attempt to do it yourself.

#2. Visible signs of mold growth

Another telltale sign of a major sewer line problem is mold growth along the walls of your home. If you see this, along with water trail marks on the ceiling and walls, it could signify seepage somewhere in your home. But, again, you should call a professional plumber to help you with this issue before it becomes a serious problem.

Molds thrive in a moist environment, and they can spread rather quickly. It also posed a dangerous threat to your health. Immediately addressing this issue will prevent any further damage.

#3. An awful sulfuric smell

Don't be alarmed because there is no evil spirit in your house. However, if you frequently smell something like sulfur in your house, it may come from the sewer line since the septic tank is supposed to be airtight. A smell emanating from it means that there is a leak somewhere. You don't have to worry about calling an exorcist. Instead, call a company that is an expert in sewer line installation.

#4. Bubbling toilet water

When you notice that the waste kind of bubbles back in the bowl instead of going down the drain every time you flush, it is a sign that your sewer line is clogged. If you see this problem, you could be dealing with a serious issue. It could be caused by something as simple as toilet paper buildup obstructing the sewage system.

#5.A soaked yard

A soggy lawn is one of the less visible indicators of a broken sewage line. The reason for your soaked yard could be a damaged sewage line next to a tree root instead of the sprinkler. The filth absorbs the extra water from the sinks, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures.

Usually, the yard would gradually become saturated, making the issue difficult to see. But, on the other hand, you could one day discover the grass to be abnormally wet and perhaps have puddles close to the underground pipes in your yard. In either scenario, you must contact a plumber right away.

#6.Unusual gurgling sounds

Your sewer system could be problematic if your sinks or toilets produce strange noises like gurgling. Since noises might appear for various reasons, this is one of the more inconspicuous indications of a collapsed sewage line. But because there is a problem, it makes sense to call a plumber.

Not only your toilet, but other fixtures may produce odd noises. Your bathtubs, sinks, and faucets may also make unsettling noises that trigger warning alerts to your common sense.

#7. Pest infestation

The emergence of critters inside your home is one more warning sign to look out for whenever there is a problem with your sewer line. These are pests like flies, scorpions, cockroaches, and ants. Rats, snails, worms, lizards, and even snakes are included. If you find these animals and are certain that other possible points of entry are sealed, they may have entered through your sewage line. There could be a break somewhere wide enough for animals to squeeze through.

Conclusion

You could also consider other indicators, such as lush grass areas in your yard. Don't hesitate to ask a professional for assistance if you discover any issues with your sewage line other than the above. You can create a strategy to fix your sewer line with their advice before it develops into a bigger issue. In some cases, a sewage line installation is also necessary.

About the Author:

Merrie is a Marketing Manager for the Rooter Ranger brand. Her focus is on results driven strategic marketing efforts that deliver sales and profit growth. In her spare time she enjoys the outdoors and traveling the world.

Bed Bug DIY Mistakes You Should Never Do at Home

Bed bugs have always been a looming problem in both residential and industrial areas. While both business owners and homeowners have been shown bed bug removal methods they can do by themselves, doing the wrong thing could lead to mishaps.

DIY isn’t entirely wrong, but it should be well-informed and done right so as to avoid hazardous issues. But just to be on the safe side and avoid further mishaps, the best option for treating bed bugs is to contact a professional that can do bed bug heat treatments in Sacramento, CA.

Here is a rundown of some bed bug DIY mistakes that should never be done at home.

Using the wrong pesticides

Of course, pesticides are highly toxic and hazardous. Even the ones that are registered by the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) have been linked to multiple health problems such as acute poisoning, certain types of cancer, hormone disruption, asthma, neurotoxicity, organ damage, and more. The use of these pesticides are more dangerous than their benefits.

That’s why it’s important to check with a professional exterminator. After assessing the infestation, they will come up with a proper treatment plan to deal with the bed bugs in your area. They also have the right tools and equipment to carry out these treatments.

Not buying a vapor steam cleaner

Nowadays in the cleaning industry, steam cleaners are one of the fastest growing technologies. We’d even go as far as saying that these are a heaven-sent item for anyone that’s wary about bedbugs. Vapor steam cleaners look similar to a vacuum, but they are much more powerful. Steam cleaners use water and electricity to clean, disinfect, and deodorize any surface. These are safe for use in homes since they don’t need any kind of chemicals. 

Vapor steam cleaners are great for maintaining a bed bug-free environment because they generate  a tremendous amount of heat, eliminating pests from clothes, furniture, and beddings. The steam vapor can also reach nooks and crannies, just where bed bugs like to hide most. If you’re trying to steer clear of bed bugs, vapor steam cleaners are worth an investment.

Not using a bed bug monitor

Bed bug monitors/interceptors have been one of the most useful devices ever invented for bed bug monitoring and management. These devices are usually shaped like a plastic dish with an outer shallow part designed to catch and contain bed bugs. They function on the assumption that bed bugs do not have the ability to climb slippery, vertical surfaces. So with these things, you can breathe easy for a bit knowing bed bugs won’t reach your pillows.

Other uses for a bed bug monitor and interceptor include the following:

●      Keeps bed occupants from bed bugs

●      Sees and counts bed bugs present

●      Assess the effectiveness of certain bed bug treatments

●      Serves as an early detection system for bed bugs in hotels, apartments, houses

●      Used as part of a DIY bed bug management practice

Not prepping the rooms prior to treatment

Most, if not all, pest control companies will require homeowners to do significant preparations prior to the start of a treatment. These requirements may differ based on the type of treatment as well as the type of residence. Unfortunately, some clients don’t think this is necessary, leading to a myriad of problems that pest control companies are all too familiar with.

The actions they require Below is a sample checklist for clients to complete before their bed bug service begins.

Below is a list of the preparations homeowners should take note of before having exterminators begin their treatment:

●      Lift mattresses and box springs out of the bed frame

●      Empty all closets, dressers, drawers

●      Wash and dry all clothing within the room on high heat

●      Bag all personal items that cannot be laundered

●      Empty all luggage and travel bags into untied bags

●      Remove all sofa, chair, and other upholstered furniture cushions and accessories

●      Remove all sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and other bed coverings from the mattress and box spring and dry for at least 50 minutes on high heat

●      Thoroughly vacuum your mattress, box spring, inside of dresser drawers, all carpeting throughout your entire home, floors, area rugs, sofas, futons, recliners, upholstered furniture, and physical bugs you may see

●      Remove and dry all curtains and window dressings on high heat

●      Inspect items that cannot be washed such as books, electronics, picture frames, and plastic toys

●      Place them into plastic bags only if you do not find bed bugs on these items

●      Reduce clutter under your bed and around the room

●      Encase your mattress using specialized mattress encasements

Unless homeowners do these themselves, technicians will leave the room just as it is. This results in a lot of mishandling in materials that could spread bed bugs throughout your home, or even destroy your beddings and belongings. Neglecting proper preparation could prolong the whole treatment process.

Bed bugs are tough, but you have to be even tougher

Dealing with bed bugs takes so much time and energy, but that’s why there are pest control companies that can help. These companies have exterminators that are properly trained and equipped with the right tools for carrying out bed bug heat treatments in Sacramento, CA. DIY methods may be cheaper, but these may not be as effective and some mistakes can even cost you more money instead.

Awesome Home Improvement Ideas for Dog Owners

Our dogs are our family members, and every family member deserves to feel comfortable, safe and welcome in their own house. So if you’re planning to conduct some home improvements in the future, don’t forget to surprise your pup with some improvements for their own comfort. If you need dog-friendly renovation ideas, you’ll find plenty here:

Install dog-friendly flooring

Let’s start your renovation from the bottom up by installing new flooring. If you have an indoor pup, choose the flooring that’s easy to clean and resistant to slips. For dogs, concrete, tile and hardwood floors are the best choices that can’t be damaged by your dog’s claws and accidents. And consider installing heating under the floor—this will feel so good on your senior dog’s joints and bones.

Built-in doggy doors

Suppose you don’t like the open space concept, then you know how annoying it can be to constantly go around the house, opening the doors for your pup. Well, you can make your life much easier with built-in doggy doors. There are costly but super-practical sliding doggy doors that are built into the walls, but those that install on your regular doors are a great option too.

Build a mud room

If you regularly walk your dog or let them into your yard (as you should), you know how much dirt your furry friends can drag inside. This can be solved with a practical mud room. This small room is usually built near the entrance of the house and can be used to leave dirty clothing and shoes, as well as wipe your dog’s paws and store their personal items. If you have space to work with, you can also install a small dog shower in your mud room and have a practical grooming station in a safe and easy-to-clean place.

Build a doggy sanctuary

Dogs usually love to be surrounded by people, but sometimes even they need some peace and quiet. When there’s a lot of noise and chaos in your home, or when you have visitors over, your dog will love to retreat to their sanctuary and avoid over-stimulation. You can easily designate a corner under the stairs or in your catch-all closet to make a cozy dog nook. Make this place soundproof, and boost the comfort with a cozy dog bed for sweet dreams and relaxation. The best bed options are doggy cots which are lightweight, easy to move and wash. Providing your dog with a safe space will create a calm and secure dog without stress and anxiety.

Create a designated dog feeding area

If you want to additionally boost comfort for both you and your dog, then build a designated feeding area. This doggy dining room will ensure they get all the privacy they need while eating without taking away any space in their kitchen or living room. A practical solution for a feeding station is a pull-out drawer with bowls for feeding. Next to it, you can build a cabinet with kibble bins for easy access. Since these cabinets and drawers close after use, they prevent the spreading of any dog food odors and allow you to avoid spillage.

Stylish gates

We usually allow our dog access to all the parts of the house, but sometimes, we just need to limit their access to certain rooms, either for their safety or for the safety of other people. What most people resort to are baby gates, but these can be very ugly and short. A better solution is a sliding half-door with a metal railing resistant to scratching and biting. These are easy to build between the kitchen peninsula and the wall, on top of the staircase or between rooms.

Include easy access for senior dogs

Some dogs are very susceptible to joint and spine issues, especially in their senior years. To make your pup easier to navigate their home, you can consider building ramps to your entrance, couch or first floor. This can often be a very cheap improvement that will mean a lot to your pup.

Surprise your dog with a view

Don’t worry, you’re not a bad dog parent if you sometimes leave your dog alone at home—this is a sad necessity for many of us. However, you can also expect your dog to get bored while you’re not there. One thing that can give them something to do is look outside the window. Build a practical window seating for your pup so they can get a nice view outside, keep an eye on the intruders and watch squirrels play around outside—it’s like a blockbuster for dogs!

Like any family member, your dog deserves to have their needs met at home. With these practical home improvement ideas, you’ll not only make your dog’s life better, but also make your house easier to clean, maintain and keep beautiful and stylish. You’ll get to spend less time stressing over your house and more time cuddling with your dog!

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

How To Self-Install Your New Internet Service

Have you ever wondered how to self-install your new internet service? You can usually achieve this by following the instructions given to you by your service provider. 

It's often a simple process that involves plugging in the modem and router to a central location of the home and signing onto the network using a default password before updating it to a password of your choosing.

While it might seem overwhelming to take on such a technical task, we've done it before and have helped many others complete their own internet self-installation, so you can do it, too.

Below, we share how to self-install your new internet service with step-by-step instructions. While details may vary depending on your service provider, these instructions should help you get up and running.

Make Sure You're Eligible

Before you begin the process of self-installing your new internet service, it's crucial to check that you're eligible to do so. Your eligibility is typically indicated by whether or not you were given (or offered) a self-installation kit when you signed up for the service.

If you don't have a self-installation kit, that usually means you're not eligible to self-install and will need to wait for a technician to do it for you. Waiting for a technician can take days or even weeks. If you're eager to get online, self-installing is your fastest option.

Some addresses may not be eligible for self-installation if there has never been internet provided at that address by the provider before. You can find out if you're eligible by entering your street address as you order your internet online. Another option is utilizing chat or their customer service phone number to check.

Other providers may not offer a self-installation option. Some popular providers that do offer this option include:

• At&T

• Century Link

• Google Fiber

• Cox Communications

• Spectrum

• Verizon

• Xfinity

If you're eligible for self-installation but still prefer to have someone do it for you, that's possible, too. However, you'll need to wait longer for an available technician.

Also, if you have a provider like Verizon, your self-installation might be a bit harder. Here is an extra resource on this. 

Order a Self-Installation Kit

If you're eligible to self-install your new internet service, you should have received (or been offered) a self-installation kit. Your kit will include everything you need to get online, including the:

• Modem

• Router

• Coaxial cables

• Ethernet cables

• Printed instructions or a link to access online instructions

If you didn't receive a self-installation kit, don't worry. You can try ordering one from your internet service provider's website or customer service line. They may even send one to you overnight so you can get started as soon as possible.

You may need to return your old equipment before they ship you a new self-installation kit if you're upgrading your internet speed and need a new modem that's compatible with the higher speeds.

Follow Instructions as Provided

Once you have your self-installation kit, it's time to get started. The first thing you'll want to do is read through the instructions provided. Either read the printed material that came with your kit or follow the link to online instructions.

It's crucial to follow the instructions since they are specific to your service and equipment. Don't try to shortcut the process, as it could result in problems later.

If you have questions about the instructions, don't hesitate to contact your internet service provider's customer service department for help.

Find a Central Location To Install

One of the first things you'll need to do is find a central location to install your modem and router. A good location should be somewhere near an outlet and close to where your main computer or TV is located. 

You don't want to place it on either end of the house, as the WiFi signal may not reach the other side. Try to find a place that's in the middle of your home so it can reach every room. It's also important that the location has enough ventilation to help keep your equipment cool.

If you're not sure where the best place to install your modem and router is, take a walk around your home and look for potential locations. Once you've begun the installation process, you can try doing a test WiFi connection from that location to double-check the strength of your signal from various spots in the house.

Install the Modem

Once you've found the best location for installation, it's time to set up your modem. Start by plugging the power cord into an outlet and then connecting it to the back of the modem.

To do this, take the modem out of the box and use the cord to plug it into the wall. You may be plugging it into a:

• Phone jack

• Coaxial jack

• Optical or Ethernet jack

The specifics will vary for different providers, so refer to your specific provider's instructions.

Connect Modem and Router

Now, plug your modem into your router to connect the two using an Ethernet cable.

Plugin Router

Plug your router in so that both devices are plugged into the wall and connected to each other.

Wait for a Light Indicator

After about 30 seconds to 1 minute, check the light status on your modem and router. They should be blinking or solid, depending on your provider's instructions.

Locate Network Default Password

Check the back of the router or the box it came in for a network default password. You'll use it to sign on to your WiFi for the first time.

Connect To WiFi From Your Devices

Using your default password, connect to your WiFi network. Once you're connected, you should be able to follow the instructions given to you by your provider to change the password to something you'd prefer.

Wrapping Up

By following these simple instructions, you should know how to self-install your new internet service without any problems. 

If you have any trouble along the way or run into issues, don't hesitate to reach out to your provider's customer service department for help. They'll be more than happy to assist you.

Guest Contributor: Andreas Grant

Home Improvement Checklist

When doing a home improvement project, there are things to consider first before having to spend some money or have something in your house be replaced. First, identify what you want to change in your home’s current design. For example, living room setup, kitchen equipment, bathroom shower, and many more. Next, after you identify the areas you want to improve, you would want to list down what are the things you want to change or upgrade in that area. Another example is if you want to change the design of your sofa.

There are two categories that need to be considered which are functional and aesthetic. But for home improvements, both of these factors are needed. Here are some checklists for Home Improvement projects.

1. REPLACE BROKEN UTILITY

Functionality of the house is very important. It should be the top priority of every home. Every homeowner should have maintenance to their plumbing system, electrical wiring, water supply, etc. The aesthetic of your house is also important. There are several ways to add aesthetics to your utility tools such as having more modern showers, modern faucets, and even light switch plates that can now be decorated. Although the light switch cover doesn’t get much attention, it is actually great to have designs even in the smallest details.

 2. REARRANGGING FURNITURE AND APPLIANCES

To have more creativity and uniqueness in your home, consider having rearrangements in your home. To avoid having a boring and somehow repetitive layout in your house, try changing the things in your house from time to time to add a new perspective.

3. PAINTS

Paint jobs are also one of the factors to add to the checklist for home improvements. If there are signs of paint chips, faded colors, cracked, peeling, or when you no longer like the color of your paint. Consider having your house repainted so your walls will be protected. Having a new paint job can also have your house look elegant instantly. When choosing the right color of paint, choose the color that you really like to match your personality.

4. NEW MATTRESS

If you are no longer comfortable in your bedroom, consider buying a new mattress. When choosing  a mattress, it should be made from a high-end material that gives comfort and coziness. Choose a mattress that gives both durability and comfort at the same time. Since you will be using your new mattress for a really long time.

5. NEW TOOLS

Tools can also have an expiration date, if you are using a microwave for a really long time, it might not work perfectly as it was before. Buying out new tools for your home can also avoid you from getting infections and bacteria. For example, if you still use the same kitchenware for years, some of its properties might peel off and be included in your food. So it’s best to change it from time to time. Another examples are knives, when it becomes dull, it is time to change it. Appliances are also included in this list since it becomes a tool that you use every day. Having functional home results in an elegant home.

6. EXTERIORS

Exterior walls also need to repaint, pathway and walkways also need cleaning maintenance from to time, and windows needs to be treated. The roof also needs to be checked from time to time, especially if there is bad weather. It's better to spend some money on repairs rather than getting wet from leakage when it's raining.

In conclusion, for every household, there will be a different checklist for home improvement. The lists that were mentioned earlier are just an example. Home improvements vary for each individual. So to have the right checklist, always identify the things that you wanted to improve first from your house and create a list on what you want to do after figuring out what are the areas in your home that needs improvements.

How to Pimp Your Living Room Without Spending Too Much

Living Room is one of the most noticeable areas in a house. Homeowners usually spend a lot of their time in the living room. Since entertainment is usually found in the living room and this is the first room a person goes to when entering a house. If there are visitors to a house, they are also more likely to spend their time in the living room. There are times that you might feel insecure about the design of your living room. However, it is perfectly normal.

 Improving the setup of your living room can be difficult if you are on a tight budget for decorations. Fortunately, there are several ways that your living room can have a high-end appearance without having to damage your budget a lot. Here are some ideas for homeowners that want to upgrade their living room setup without spending a lot of money.

1. Affordable Furniture

Most homeowners feel that the need to spend for a piece of new furniture is not a great choice and they tend to buy cheap once instead but regret it later on. In reality, when buying cheap furniture you are spending a lot of money instead. Low-cost furniture is also low quality since they are poorly built. On the other hand, furniture speaks for its price it is expensive because the process of building it is high quality. But furniture is still expensive to buy, that is why if there’s a sale in malls, discount stores, or secondhand stores, grab the opportunity to buy your new furniture as it will have a lower price but you can ensure that the quality is high and it will last for a long period of time.

2. Appliances

If you want to have a big flat screen television, PlayStation, surround sound, a working heater, or an air conditioner but are afraid to spend your money, worry not. There are several ways to have new appliances in your living room. Just like buying a piece of furniture, seek opportunities if there is a sale in stores or you can buy online for a lower cost. Since there must be entertainment in the living room, it is great to have new appliances.

3. Centrepiece

In a living room, usually has a center table that you can decorate with for example a flower vase. One of the most inexpensive ways to decorate your living room is having a centerpiece in the middle of the living room. You can get a plant or a flower, or put some books and magazines to add more texture to your living room.

4. Pillows

Adding a pillow to your sofa is a great way of tidying up your living room. It provides a cozy and friendly vibe in it. It can also serve a purpose. As an example, if your house does not have a guest room, your guests can sleep on the couch instead. Using a pillow in your living room gives your guests extra comfort. And, pillows add more elegance to the room and make it look more aesthetic.

5. Ventilation

Make sure that your living room is well ventilated so it will be relaxing to stay there even for a long period of time. Just like humans, a house also needs to breathe and proper ventilation will keep the air fresh and easier to breathe.

6. Adding more plants

Plants and flowers give an aesthetic of which room you’ve put it into. Having plants also give the room fresh air to breathe. It also balances the appliances’ radiation so even if you spent a lot of time watching television, the plants will decrease the radiation in the room.

7. Adding tiny details

Accessories to your living room like small cabinets, wallpapers, posters, and one of the least common decorations that a homeowner can do is to change the switch plates. Though it is just for utilities, having this least popular part of the house has a decoration that can really pimp up your living room. To make it look more expensive, there are brushed copper switch plate covers that look really elegant but it comes at an affordable price. So having these tiny details that don’t get noticed much can surely add more texture to your living room.

8. Windows

For windows, you would want to change see-through materials if you are using it. If you don’t have yet a budget for a tinted window, you can use rack curtains as a cover. It is highly recommended to have privacy in your living room. If you want a more modern approach, you can also use blinds that are made of bamboo or wood.

9. Rearranging the positions of your furniture

When rearranging furniture, gives you more creativity as you can experiment with what position is the best for your furniture and appliances. It is also a great exercise to do as it helps your mind relax while rearranging your living room. By also doing it from time to time, you can avoid having boring and repetitive arrangements in your living room.

10. Cleanliness

The last step is totally free and every homeowner will be able to do it. Avoid hoarding a lot of unnecessary things in your living room. If it can no longer be used, throw it in the trash or donate to someone else. Freeing up some space in your living room can make it more spacious and if you are into minimalistic designs, it's best to clean up your living room.

The best way to pimp up a living room is to have the best comfort that it can offer. Expensive things aren’t primarily needed when you want to improve your home. You can just start simply by cleaning up your living room and rearranging the positions of your furniture to make it look new. As long as it gives you satisfaction, expensive stuff is not necessary for home beautification.

What are 5 of the Most Commonly Noted Home Inspection Items?

The process of purchasing a new home can be both exciting and stressful. Numerous issues with your new home will need to be addressed throughout this process, including potential issues with the appliances, fixtures, foundation, construction, electricity, plumbing, etc. Fortunately, there is home inspection, an easy and practical approach to make sure your new house isn't a disaster.

Significance of Home Inspections

A home inspection is considered a crucial step in the purchasing process. It is comparable to taking your new home for a trial run or test drive, wherein your home gets to be thoroughly assessed and examined so that any problem or defect within the property is spotted.  However, to have a new house undergo a home inspection, the prospective owner has first to engage the services of an expert who is trained and experienced for the position. You can find a licensed and competent inspector via the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), a long-standing non-profit organization for inspectors in America. ASHI sets the bar for quality home inspections.

The inspector will perform a comprehensive inspection of the home, pointing out any faults that the buyer would want to discuss with the seller in order to have the issues fixed as well as any serious problems that might cause them to reconsider making the purchase. If you want to be referred to a truly capable home inspector in Philadelphia, you can contact ASHI or go straight up to Eagle Inspections, one of the finest home inspections in Philadelphia.

Checklist of Home Inspection Items

Following the inspection, a home inspector will provide a report that lists down the home's key characteristics, provides an overview of each main living area, and details any issues. Of course, the home buyer is an essential component of the inspection process; therefore, he or she must familiarize himself/herself with the process. By reading through the list of the items that every house inspection checklist should have, homebuyers may become comfortable with the procedure. So, here five of the most commonly noted home inspection items:

1.    Ground and Exterior

A home inspector should start by assessing the property's general state and the outside parts of the home during an inspection. Damages to the garage, deck, stairs, patio, or driveway, presence of leaks and standing water, grading and drainage, stability of siding and foundation, and health of exterior house paint and landscaping are the things to look out for.

2.    Doors, Windows, and Roof

A home inspector should thoroughly assess the quality and anticipated lifespan of the roof, doors, and windows components because repair and replacement of these items are among the most expensive. He will look for defects such as poor caulking, cracks, faulty installation, rot and decay, and other issues when evaluating windows and doors. When inspecting the roof and attic, the inspector will probably pay particular attention to gutters, shingles, soffits, exterior vents, chimneys, and flashing among others.

3.    Interior Rooms

Interior areas can expose serious structural problems, so you need to be concerned about them. Internal doors, windows, walls, ceilings, floors, outlets, insulation, lighting and switches, temperature control, paint and trim, and fireplaces should all be included on the inspection checklist.

4.    Attic and Basement

Many potential homebuyers frequently disregard the attic. In the attic, the inspector will make sure he doesn't discover insulation install flaws, inadequate ventilation, damages to structure, or nearby plumbing issues. In the basement, the things the inspector will search for include signs of pest infestation, moisture, faulty insulation, structural damages, and foundational problems.

5.    Plumbing, electrical, and major systems

The plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems must all be thoroughly inspected as part of any house inspection, but first, the inspector should determine and note how old these components already are and how long they will last. He will then make sure the water heater and pump are operating properly and check the plumbing system for issues like leaky or damaged pipes. Presence of dangerous gasses, ventilation, airflow, flue quality, filters, and ductwork are all included in the HVAC system inspection, while for the electrical systems, the inspector will look at cables, wiring, fuses, main service panels, and breakers.

Home Inspections Philadelphia

Surprise expenses from unexpected repairs can easily overshadow the thrill of moving into a new house. In Philadelphia, you can reduce the likelihood of future repairs by hiring a certified home inspector. Doing so will help you acquire the knowledge you need to make the best choice for your future. Keeping this checklist close at hand can also help you be ready for the home inspection.

References:

https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/home-inspection-checklist

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/home-inspection-checklist/

Home Inspection Checklist 2022

It can take months to buy a home and it can be challenging to know what to look for when thinking about potential future repairs. That is why, prior to moving in, you have to hire someone trained to conduct a home inspection. A house inspection can help you make sure you have made the right choice  and give you an indication of the kind of maintenance you can anticipate for your new home. You can avail of full home inspections in Philadelphia.

What Home Inspection is Like

When a house undergoes home inspection, everything in and around it, including the foundation and roof, is thoroughly assessed by a strained inspector to assure the prospective homeowner that the abode is livable and that all its systems are operating properly. The home inspection is conducted following the seller’s approval of the buyer’s offer and before closing on the property.

In order to prevent consumers from unintentionally purchasing a house that will only bring potentially danger to residents, home inspectors help make known the weaknesses in the structures or systems. Thus, homebuyers can ultimately save money since, if any issues are discovered, they can discuss with the seller about the repairs and then bargain for a reduced sale price. Additionally, after knowing the flaws or weak points of the property , the buyer can decide not to proceed.

Long List of the Items to Inspect

Arie van Tuijl of Home Inspector Secrets provides a detailed list of all items that home inspectors examine during house inspection.

A. Exterior

1. Roof

   1. Shingles

   2. Flashing

   3. Gutters

   4. Soffit Vents

   5. Structural

2. Exterior Walls

   1. Caulking

   2. Wood Trim

   3. Siding

   4. Stone/Brick

3. Deck, Exterior Doors, Windows

 B.  Grounds

1. Driveway and Walkways

2. Lot

3. Trees and Shrubs

C. Electrical System

D. Home Interior

1. Bathrooms

   1. Sink

   2. Toilet

   3. Exhaust Fan

   4. Drywall

2. Plumbing System

   1. Pipes

   2. Main water line

   3. Water Pressure

3. Interior Doors

4. Windows

5. Electrical System

   1. Panel Box

   2. Outlets

6. Bedrooms

   1. Wall

   2. Light Fixtures

   3. Closet

7. Kitchen

8. Garage

9. Attic

10. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide

11. HVAC System

12. Basement/Crawl Space

Home Inspectors Philadelphia PA

The cost of a home inspection is an additional expense, but it almost always pays off. By identifying issues early on, when they are still at the expense  of the seller, you can avoid having to pay for expensive repairs. You will also become aware of expected maintenance through an inspection. Although you can’t expect inspectors to catch everything, taking this extra step will give you peace of mind and the assurance that you move into a home that won't cost you a lot in maintenance and repairs up front. That being said, we recommend Eagle Inspections for your full home inspections in Philadelphia. Eagle Inspections provides Philadelphia homeowners and buyers with the best inspections available by utilizing the most recent technology and training. We evaluate the status of your house using the most up-to-date tools (i.e. digital moisture meters and radon detectors). Our skilled home inspectors in Philadelphia, PA can locate and identify any problems with your house using these equipment.

References:

https://homeinspectorsecrets.com/home-inspections/home-inspection-checklist/

https://www.consumeraffairs.com/finance/home-inspection-checklist.html

https://learnandserve.org/home-inspection-checklist/