Looking for a new home can be exciting and frustrating. You can help alleviate the frustration by paying close attention to five key areas of the homes you're considering buying; it may save you money in the long run.
Don Walker is an inspector and owner of Ace Home Inspections. He says there are five areas in homes that he frequently reports problems with. They are electrical, foundation, plumbing, the attic, and landscaping.
Electrical
Walker says sometimes homeowners assume with newer homes that all will work just fine but that's often not the case. "I inspected a brand new house—four years old but the electrical was all done incorrectly," says Walker.
Having a complete home inspection will help to rule out any problems and point out any areas of concern. However, even as you're browsing homes, buyers can start to make note of the key areas that Walker mentioned, such as the foundation.
Foundation
Walker says a four-year-old home he inspected recently was already showing trouble signs which could result in a costly repair project. "It was a model home. What the homeowners did was plant trees for shade to make it look really nice, but they planted the wrong trees and they're going to crack the foundation and it's going to cut the property value down by $50,000," says Walker.
Walker says in the case of that home, the trees were causing micro-fractures in the tile in various locations of the home. "As you walk through the house, 21 feet in and 30 feet deep, there's just too much root invasion and it's going to ruin their tile," explains Walker.
He says some tell-tale signs with this home were the minor cracks in the foundation that were causing a lifting and separation of the foundation. Also, the windows were not opening and closing properly, "which means the foundation is moving."
However, just because you see cracks doesn't mean there is a foundation problem. "Most people don't understand that there are natural cracks in a house. That's why when we do an inspection report we have to look at it and say 'Okay, this is a typical crack and this one is an untypical crack,'" says Walker. He says some cracks may lead to other problems while others won't.
Plumbing
Walker says another big area of concern is the plumbing. It's an area that you can't always spot as easily but it can create expensive repairs if plumbing issues go either undetected or are not properly fixed. "Mold forms underneath sinks when people have a leak and they fix the pipe but they don't take care of the mold," says Walker.
He says things like caulking the sink can help prevent mold. "That's my number one thing I always find—bad sinks," says Walker.
He says that when you look at the sink, look behind it and most of the time you will discover a little crack. "What happens is, when you wash dishes or you wash your hands in the bathroom or the kitchen, the water gets in that crack and seeps down. Once the water gets behind the cabinet it's in a perfect position to create mold," says Walker. The dampness, humidity, and lack of light can turn that area beneath the sink into a mold-breeding ground.
Attic
"You can tell everything about the house by the attic," says Walker. He says other areas of the home can be covered up if a repair had occurred. For instance, if there was a leak and it damaged a wall, with the right contractors and repairs it can be made to look like new and, hopefully, function like new. But Walker says the attic is sort of the eyes to the soul of the home. "In the attic you can tell where all the damage has been," says Walker.
"If you're in a 20-year-old house and you see that the insulation is brand new, you know that there was a water leak because it had to be replaced," says Walker. He adds, "You can tell if the roof is good because you can look right at the wood."
Landscaping
"There should not be moisture or plants next to your house," says Walker. He says there should be a 12 inch barrier between the landscape and the house. Walker says otherwise you run the risk of having the foundation crack and affect the home. What happens is, as the landscape that is too close to the home is watered, the foundation and soil expand. Then, when no watering occurs, the foundation dries up and shrinks and this can cause it to crack.
Remember, knowledge is power, so learning about the home before you close the deal on it will keep you from making a mistake that may cost you extra out-of-pocket money later.
This article was published in Realty Times
Written by: Carla Davis
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 800-666-4718
Or Visit our Website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Monday, May 3, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
Are You Looking For Property In Lake Tahoe?
Great News for Buyers! If you are looking for property in Lake Tahoe...We have the perfect solution for you!
This beautifully maintained condo offers one bedroom, two full baths and an alcove area off the living room. The living room features a wood burning stone fireplace and opens onto a nice covered deck where you can relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Features include a master bath with spa tub, utility closet with a stack washer and dryer and a convenient underground parking garage with elevator access to the condo. This darling Tahoe retreat is just minutes away from Diamond Peak Ski Area and all recreational amenities!
Call Us For Details!
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 800-666-4718
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Spring Cleaning Tips
It's time to climb out from under that mess! Yes, there's no hiding from; it's time for Spring cleaning.
And there has never been a better time. As buyers are coming out of recession hibernation, this is the time have your home shine.
One way to have your home shine, literally, is to let in the light. To do that, let's wash those windows and screens. Ideally, you should complete this task twice a year.
To get streak free windows, there is a great time saving option available. Use a high quality squeegee in horizontal strokes. (If you're a real expert, try making an "s" pattern.) These great little tools can help you clean in just a fraction of the time that it takes with other methods, such as paper towels and windex.
You can even use simple dishsoap in a bucket of water as your cleaning solution. After a couple strokes of the squeegee, be sure to wipe off the blade with a work rag. This will help to avoid streaking.
For tough stains, consider using a very fine steel wool. What about the window screens? You can scrub them down outside in your yard with a regular scrub brush and some soapy water. Rinse with a simple garden hose. If you don't have outdoor space to work in, you can always just give those screens a good old fashioned bath in your tub.
For sellers looking to add even more light, consider changing out your curtains during showings, using simple sheers instead of heavy drapes.
Inside your home, a great way to lighten up the appearance is touching up the walls. If you have kids or animals, you may have grubby hand and paw prints. This is exactly why you should always keep an extra gallon of paint whenever you makeover a room. Use it for years to come to cover stains, holes, and blemishes.
Our next cleaning tip can also have a positive effect on your health. Allergens live deep down in your carpet, and vacuuming may not be enough. There are steam cleaners for purchase at most home stores, or industrial ones for rent. Steam cleaners can deep clean away allergens and improve the appearance of your carpet.
Or contact your local professional. Ask, though, if your carpet cleaning professional has green cleaning options you can choose from.
And the final tip: Clean that fridge. Believe it or not, prospective buyers ... and sometimes just guests ... will have a look in your fridge. Remove everything and wash the shelves in a sink. Wipe down the inside of the fridge with your daily household cleaner. And then to retain the fresh smell, place an opened box of baking soda in the fridge.
Use these tips and you're on your way to a Spring clean home!
Published in Realty Times
Written by Carla L. Davis
April 20, 2010
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 877-651-7810
Or visit our website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
And there has never been a better time. As buyers are coming out of recession hibernation, this is the time have your home shine.
One way to have your home shine, literally, is to let in the light. To do that, let's wash those windows and screens. Ideally, you should complete this task twice a year.
To get streak free windows, there is a great time saving option available. Use a high quality squeegee in horizontal strokes. (If you're a real expert, try making an "s" pattern.) These great little tools can help you clean in just a fraction of the time that it takes with other methods, such as paper towels and windex.
You can even use simple dishsoap in a bucket of water as your cleaning solution. After a couple strokes of the squeegee, be sure to wipe off the blade with a work rag. This will help to avoid streaking.
For tough stains, consider using a very fine steel wool. What about the window screens? You can scrub them down outside in your yard with a regular scrub brush and some soapy water. Rinse with a simple garden hose. If you don't have outdoor space to work in, you can always just give those screens a good old fashioned bath in your tub.
For sellers looking to add even more light, consider changing out your curtains during showings, using simple sheers instead of heavy drapes.
Inside your home, a great way to lighten up the appearance is touching up the walls. If you have kids or animals, you may have grubby hand and paw prints. This is exactly why you should always keep an extra gallon of paint whenever you makeover a room. Use it for years to come to cover stains, holes, and blemishes.
Our next cleaning tip can also have a positive effect on your health. Allergens live deep down in your carpet, and vacuuming may not be enough. There are steam cleaners for purchase at most home stores, or industrial ones for rent. Steam cleaners can deep clean away allergens and improve the appearance of your carpet.
Or contact your local professional. Ask, though, if your carpet cleaning professional has green cleaning options you can choose from.
And the final tip: Clean that fridge. Believe it or not, prospective buyers ... and sometimes just guests ... will have a look in your fridge. Remove everything and wash the shelves in a sink. Wipe down the inside of the fridge with your daily household cleaner. And then to retain the fresh smell, place an opened box of baking soda in the fridge.
Use these tips and you're on your way to a Spring clean home!
Published in Realty Times
Written by Carla L. Davis
April 20, 2010
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 877-651-7810
Or visit our website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Monday, April 26, 2010
2010 Outdoor Living Trends
Spring has sprung and while snow still lingers on lawns, patios and backyards, thoughts are turning to the great outdoors -- around the home.
However, those thoughts of leaving in-house hibernation behind are edged with economic concerns as homeowners take a less lavish look at how to move indoor living outside.
Buzzwords are "low" and "less" as low-maintenance landscaping, low-frill entertaining, even less technology are common in outside home improvement plans homeowners will undertake this year, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).
"Homeowners want to create a sense of place for their family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy outside, but an uncertain economy means many will dial back some of the extra features we've seen in past years," said Nancy Somerville, executive vice percent and CEO of ASLA.
From Jan. 25 to Feb. 12, when the ASLA surveyed 182 residential landscape architects about the popularity of various design elements for 2010 they found homeowners were avoiding more expensive, elaborate items in favor of more essential ones.
Given most outdoor living spaces are an extension of the kitchen, ASLA, not surprisingly, found the most popular kitchen features was an outdoor grill (94.4 percent) and counter space (73.5 percent).
More elaborate outdoor refrigerators (52.8 percent) and sinks (50 percent) were much less popular.
For entertainment purposes, instead of stereo systems (57.2 percent), wireless/Internet connectivity (44.1 percent), outdoor heaters (43.9 percent) and TVs (35.5 percent), there was much greater interest in more utilitarian seating/dining areas (95.6 percent), installed seating like benches and seat walls (90.6 percent) or weatherized outdoor furniture (77.1 percent). However, the fire pit/fireplace (94 percent) remained popular.
This year homeowners are also looking to go 'green' outside to save time and money on upkeep.
Popular landscaping elements include low-maintenance landscapes (94 percent); drip/water-efficient irrigation (85.2 percent); native/adapted drought tolerant plants (85.2 percent); and less sprawling lawn (73.9 percent).
Other popular features include fountains/water features (87.8 percent) and, taking a cue from the First Lady, Michelle Obama, food/vegetable gardens (78.5 percent).
Among the more expensive outdoor architectural features that remain popular were spas (hot tub, Jacuzzi, whirlpool, indoor/outdoor sauna; 79.1 percent); decks (83 percent), porches (76.4 percent) and swimming pools (72.4 percent).
Among the least popular items were sleeping spaces (5.6 percent); geothermal-heated pools (28.2 percent); outdoor cooling systems (36.5 percent); outdoor heaters (43.8 percent); solar-powered lights (49.4 percent); and sports/recreational spaces (tennis courts, bocce ball, etc.; 47 percent).
This artice was published in Realty Times
Written by: Broderick Perkins
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 800-666-4718
Or Visit our Website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
However, those thoughts of leaving in-house hibernation behind are edged with economic concerns as homeowners take a less lavish look at how to move indoor living outside.
Buzzwords are "low" and "less" as low-maintenance landscaping, low-frill entertaining, even less technology are common in outside home improvement plans homeowners will undertake this year, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).
"Homeowners want to create a sense of place for their family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy outside, but an uncertain economy means many will dial back some of the extra features we've seen in past years," said Nancy Somerville, executive vice percent and CEO of ASLA.
From Jan. 25 to Feb. 12, when the ASLA surveyed 182 residential landscape architects about the popularity of various design elements for 2010 they found homeowners were avoiding more expensive, elaborate items in favor of more essential ones.
Given most outdoor living spaces are an extension of the kitchen, ASLA, not surprisingly, found the most popular kitchen features was an outdoor grill (94.4 percent) and counter space (73.5 percent).
More elaborate outdoor refrigerators (52.8 percent) and sinks (50 percent) were much less popular.
For entertainment purposes, instead of stereo systems (57.2 percent), wireless/Internet connectivity (44.1 percent), outdoor heaters (43.9 percent) and TVs (35.5 percent), there was much greater interest in more utilitarian seating/dining areas (95.6 percent), installed seating like benches and seat walls (90.6 percent) or weatherized outdoor furniture (77.1 percent). However, the fire pit/fireplace (94 percent) remained popular.
This year homeowners are also looking to go 'green' outside to save time and money on upkeep.
Popular landscaping elements include low-maintenance landscapes (94 percent); drip/water-efficient irrigation (85.2 percent); native/adapted drought tolerant plants (85.2 percent); and less sprawling lawn (73.9 percent).
Other popular features include fountains/water features (87.8 percent) and, taking a cue from the First Lady, Michelle Obama, food/vegetable gardens (78.5 percent).
Among the more expensive outdoor architectural features that remain popular were spas (hot tub, Jacuzzi, whirlpool, indoor/outdoor sauna; 79.1 percent); decks (83 percent), porches (76.4 percent) and swimming pools (72.4 percent).
Among the least popular items were sleeping spaces (5.6 percent); geothermal-heated pools (28.2 percent); outdoor cooling systems (36.5 percent); outdoor heaters (43.8 percent); solar-powered lights (49.4 percent); and sports/recreational spaces (tennis courts, bocce ball, etc.; 47 percent).
This artice was published in Realty Times
Written by: Broderick Perkins
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 800-666-4718
Or Visit our Website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Friday, April 23, 2010
Are You Looking For Property In Lake Tahoe?
Great News for Buyers!If you are looking for a STEAL OF A DEAL in Lake Tahoe...We have the perfect property for you!
This spacious end unit is unlike any other on the market! The unit features three separate livable areas. From the lower level, the large two car garage leads into a non-conforming studio featuring tile floors, a kitchenette, and its own private entrance. Both the upper and middle levels feature identical floor plans with two bedrooms, one bathroom, a deck off of the living room, a nice kitchen with a large pantry, and great natural lighting.
Call Us For Details!
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 800-666-4718
Or Visit our Website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Top 10 Home Buying Mistakes
Buying a home is perhaps the most arduous, expensive and, ultimately, valuable acquisition you'll ever complete
Just one mistake could mean disaster -- perhaps the worst mistake you'll ever make.
In order to avoid titanic trip ups during such a trying transaction, RealEstate.com suggests buyers get to know the most common home buying blunders. To know them is to avoid them.
Going solo Buying a house is a complex transaction. It should be a team effort. You'll need a real estate agent, lender, inspector, insurer, perhaps a lawyer and other team members to help you through each step of the way. Team build before you start the search.
Love at first sight If you believe in fairy tales you probably shouldn't be buying a home. You won't live happily ever after if you emote your way through the home buying process. Your home should fit your real needs, not your yen for drama. Buy a home that fits your budget and your lifestyle. Be sure the home is in a community and neighborhood you desire. Visit neighborhoods several times before you buy to check out schools, noise and traffic patterns.
'Loanless' shopping Being pre-qualified gives you a general idea of how much you can afford to borrow. It's better to be pre-approved for a given loan. Sellers will take you more seriously. You'll stay on budget.
Overbuying Home buyers buying more than they could truly afford, in part, led to the collapse of the housing market. Buy more than you can afford and your dream home will become the same nightmare. Analyze all your monthly costs including debts, food, transportation, entertainment, and savings. Your total monthly debts, including your mortgage, should not exceed 36 percent of your income before taxes. Don't forget to budget closing costs (often two to five percent of the home's purchase price), plus moving, redecorating and maintenance. Look ahead and allow for increases in ongoing expenses such as utilities and taxes.
Misplaced trust You are engaged in what's likely your most valuable acquisition ever. It's a business transaction. Ask family, friends, co-workers, professionals and others you trust for referrals, but don't take their word for it. Vet your team members.
Accepting oral agreements Get it in writing. The rate lock, the home inspection, disclosures, the contract. Always. Should a dispute arise, you've got the details documented.
Skipping the fine print Understand what's really in any document before picking up a pen. Get documents in advance, take time to read them and ask questions. Get copies of your mortgage and closing papers a few days ahead of closing.
Forgetting or betting on resale Avoid buying a home that costs 50 percent more than neighboring homes. Reconsider buying the most expensive home on the block. Neighbors' lower home values will weaken yours. Buy intending to flip your investment only to have the market fail means when it's time to sell your price may not cover your costs.
Making an unconditional offer Protect yourself with these contingencies:
• Mortgage financing. You may be preapproved but is the house? A formal appraisal confirms -- or not -- that there is sufficient value in the home to warrant the loan. If the house appraises lower than the sales price, the loan may be declined.
• Inspection. Never buy an existing or new home without a thorough home inspection. Walk through the home with the inspector to learn more about the house and any concerns he or she may have.
• Insurance. Confirm you can get adequate insurance coverage. In some areas, or following certain disasters, it can be difficult to get types of hazard insurance.
Article Published on Realty Times
Written by Broderick Perkins
April 8, 2010
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 877-651-7810
Or visit our website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Just one mistake could mean disaster -- perhaps the worst mistake you'll ever make.
In order to avoid titanic trip ups during such a trying transaction, RealEstate.com suggests buyers get to know the most common home buying blunders. To know them is to avoid them.
Going solo Buying a house is a complex transaction. It should be a team effort. You'll need a real estate agent, lender, inspector, insurer, perhaps a lawyer and other team members to help you through each step of the way. Team build before you start the search.
Love at first sight If you believe in fairy tales you probably shouldn't be buying a home. You won't live happily ever after if you emote your way through the home buying process. Your home should fit your real needs, not your yen for drama. Buy a home that fits your budget and your lifestyle. Be sure the home is in a community and neighborhood you desire. Visit neighborhoods several times before you buy to check out schools, noise and traffic patterns.
'Loanless' shopping Being pre-qualified gives you a general idea of how much you can afford to borrow. It's better to be pre-approved for a given loan. Sellers will take you more seriously. You'll stay on budget.
Overbuying Home buyers buying more than they could truly afford, in part, led to the collapse of the housing market. Buy more than you can afford and your dream home will become the same nightmare. Analyze all your monthly costs including debts, food, transportation, entertainment, and savings. Your total monthly debts, including your mortgage, should not exceed 36 percent of your income before taxes. Don't forget to budget closing costs (often two to five percent of the home's purchase price), plus moving, redecorating and maintenance. Look ahead and allow for increases in ongoing expenses such as utilities and taxes.
Misplaced trust You are engaged in what's likely your most valuable acquisition ever. It's a business transaction. Ask family, friends, co-workers, professionals and others you trust for referrals, but don't take their word for it. Vet your team members.
Accepting oral agreements Get it in writing. The rate lock, the home inspection, disclosures, the contract. Always. Should a dispute arise, you've got the details documented.
Skipping the fine print Understand what's really in any document before picking up a pen. Get documents in advance, take time to read them and ask questions. Get copies of your mortgage and closing papers a few days ahead of closing.
Forgetting or betting on resale Avoid buying a home that costs 50 percent more than neighboring homes. Reconsider buying the most expensive home on the block. Neighbors' lower home values will weaken yours. Buy intending to flip your investment only to have the market fail means when it's time to sell your price may not cover your costs.
Making an unconditional offer Protect yourself with these contingencies:
• Mortgage financing. You may be preapproved but is the house? A formal appraisal confirms -- or not -- that there is sufficient value in the home to warrant the loan. If the house appraises lower than the sales price, the loan may be declined.
• Inspection. Never buy an existing or new home without a thorough home inspection. Walk through the home with the inspector to learn more about the house and any concerns he or she may have.
• Insurance. Confirm you can get adequate insurance coverage. In some areas, or following certain disasters, it can be difficult to get types of hazard insurance.
Article Published on Realty Times
Written by Broderick Perkins
April 8, 2010
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 877-651-7810
Or visit our website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
Monday, April 19, 2010
Are You Looking For A Lake View Property In Lake Tahoe?
Great News for Buyers!If you are looking for a Lake view property in Lake Tahoe...We have the perfect condo for you!
This beautiful three bedroom, two and a half bath condo will amaze you with its SPECTACULAR Lake views and ski slope views of Diamond Peak Ski Resort! Upgrades include slate flooring in the entry and half bath, Corian countertops in the kitchen and baths. Cathedral beamed ceilings grace the living area, giving it a nice open feeling. The living room features a wood burning stone fireplace and dual sliding glass doors that open onto the deck where you can enjoy the incredible views. The master bedroom suite features a comfortable sitting area, large walk-in closet and dual sliding glass doors that open onto a private deck with a lake view! Its ideal location is just minutes away from Diamond Peak Ski Resort and all recreational amenities, making it the perfect mountain residence or retreat.
Call Us For Details!
Thinking about Buying or Selling?
Call Alvin's Team Today! 800-666-4718
Or Visit our Website: www.LivingLakeTahoe.com
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