Essential Home Winterization Tips: Preparing for the Cold

Winterizing your home is like getting ready for a big storm. It’s making sure your place is snug and secure before the cold winds start to blow. When you prep your house for winter, you’re not just making it cozy; you’re also making sure that you won’t have to face any nasty surprises like frozen pipes or a cold draft sneaking in. To help you out, we’ve put together these home winterization tips. Benefits There are three big wins when you get your home ready for winter:  Overview of Key Areas to Address We’ll cover the must-dos for winter home prep, like keeping your house warm with good insulation, making sure your heating system is in top shape, and a bunch of other tips to keep your home safe and snug. Insulating Your Home Checking and Upgrading Insulation in Walls and Attics Think of insulation like a warm blanket for your house. It keeps the heat in and the cold out. You’ll want to check that your walls and attic have enough of this blanket. If not, replacing your insulation or adding more can make a big difference. The Role of Weather Stripping and Caulking Little cracks and gaps around doors and windows might not seem like much, but they let out a lot of your warm air. Using weather stripping and caulking to seal these up is like closing the door on the cold – literally. Insulating Pipes to Prevent Freezing Pipes can get really cold and freeze, then burst, and that’s a mess you don’t want. Wrapping them up with insulation is an easy way to keep the water flowing all winter. Heating System Maintenance Importance of an Annual Check-Up Your HVAC system is your best friend in the winter. You want to make sure it’s running smoothly by getting a pro to check it once a year. Think of it like a yearly check-up but for your house. Replacing Filters and Clearing Vents You’ve got to keep the air flowing through your heater just like you need to breathe. That means swapping out any dirty filters and making sure vents aren’t blocked by furniture or dust. Consideration for Upgrading to an Energy-Efficient System Old heaters can gobble up a lot of energy. If yours is getting on in years, think about switching to a newer, energy-efficient model. It’s like trading in a gas-guzzling car for a fuel-sipping one – it’s better for your wallet and the world. Fireplace and Chimney Care The Charm and Risks of a Winter Fireplace A fireplace can be the heart of the home in winter, giving you warmth and a nice spot to gather around. But it can be risky if you don’t look after it. A dirty chimney can start a fire where you don’t want one. Professional Chimney Cleaning: Removing Soot and Creosote Getting a pro to clean your chimney means they take out all the soot and creosote that’s built up. Creosote can catch fire, so it’s important to… Continue reading Essential Home Winterization Tips: Preparing for the Cold

In Safe Hands: Ensuring the Safety of Your Belongings with Professional Movers

Moving – it’s that rollercoaster ride we all want to get off, but life insists we stay on. The mere mention of it can send shivers down your spine, and for good reason. It’s a recipe for stress with a dash of chaos. But fear not, fellow adventurers in the land of moving! We’re here to talk about how to dodge the moving minefield and emerge victorious on the other side. Now, if you’re considering the path of the DIY mover, stop right there. Sure, the idea of being your own moving maestro sounds appealing. You might be thinking, “Why pay professionals when I can orchestrate this move like a maestro?” Well, folks, here’s a reality check: moving isn’t a symphony; it’s more like a roller derby. So, let’s lace up our skates and dive into the ups and downs of going DIY. The DIY Dilemma Ah, the DIY move – it lures you in with promises of cost savings and the illusion of being in control. You fancy yourself as the fearless leader, the commander of cardboard, the master of logistics. But hold on to your moving boxes because the DIY route is not for the faint of heart. It’s like navigating a labyrinth blindfolded, except the labyrinth is your home, and you really need to see where you’re going. Picture this: you’ve got your buddies, a rental truck, and a determination to rival a superhero. What could go wrong? Well, pretty much everything. From a sofa that refuses to fit through the door to an armoire that’s decided it’s the captain now, your DIY adventure could turn into a comedy of errors. So, fasten your seatbelts; we’re about to explore the treacherous terrain of DIY moving, complete with tales of mishaps and misadventures that will make you cringe and chuckle. The Myth of Cost Savings Now, let’s talk about the big myth that fuels the DIY moving dream: cost savings. You might think you’re about to embark on a financial adventure, keeping those hard-earned dollars safely tucked away in your wallet. But the truth? It’s more like a financial rollercoaster that ends with an empty wallet and a crumpled budget. The deceptively low upfront costs of DIY moving can lure you in, like a siren’s song. You see the price tag for a truck rental, and it seems like a steal. But remember, my friends, what you don’t see lurking beneath the surface are the hidden costs waiting to pounce. Fuel, packing materials, bubble wrap, tape, and snacks for your moving crew all add up quicker than you can say, “I should’ve hired professionals.” Now, let me regale you with tales of those who ventured down the DIY path, thinking they were saving a fortune. There was the tale of Tom, who underestimated the number of trips needed, resulting in a gasoline bill that could fund a small country. Then, there was Sally, who thought she could pack everything in a single weekend but ended up shelling out… Continue reading In Safe Hands: Ensuring the Safety of Your Belongings with Professional Movers

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Different Types of Real Estate Agents

When selling your home it’s important to choose the type of broker and agent that works best for you. Real estate is ever-changing, and it’s no different when it comes to agents. The days of a 3% commission brokerage being your only option are long gone. So what are the different types of real estate agents, and which one will work best for your unique situation? That’s what we’ll talk about here today. Full-price broker The type of brokerage most people are familiar with is the full-price commission model. It’s been around forever and is still in many ways the industry standard. Most of the major real estate brokerages that are probably running through your head right now are full-price ones. The way these agents and brokers make their money is by charging a percentage on the sale of your home. Seems simple enough, right? They price your home, list it on the MLS, handle advertising of the property, set up open houses and showings, and in some cases even take care of the staging. Of course they handle all the negotiations as well, and give assistance with paperwork, which can be a lot of legal stuff, so that’s very beneficial. For all the work they put in, they will typically charge 2.5%-3.0% commission on the sale price of your home. Keep in mind the sale price. It is not based on the profit you make, but what your home actually winds up selling for. Typically, this equates to thousands of dollars. One very important thing to remember is that their commission is not the only one you’re paying. You’ll also be paying the buyer’s agent, so another 2.5%-3.0%, typically. This adds up to anywhere from 5.0%-6.0% of, again, the sale price of the home. As an example, if your home were to sell for $250,000 and you were paying 5.0% split between your broker and the buyer’s, you’d pay $12,500 in commission. Not exactly a small amount.  Flat fee broker One type of broker that has become increasingly popular in recent years is the flat fee model. This type of broker works exactly like it sounds. They charge a flat fee to list your home, as opposed to charging a commission rate on the price of the home.  There can be some advantages to this model. Mostly, that you have the opportunity to save money. Usually a flat fee broker will charge $3,000-$5,000 to get your home listed. If we were to use the previous example that we used for the full-price broker, that’d be a savings of $3,250, bringing your total commission payout to $9,250. If you’re a little confused as to how I came up with that number, please keep in mind that using a discount broker on your end won’t reduce the amount you’re on the hook for that will go to the buyer’s agent. Another advantage is you’re able to budget better. Well, probably. If everything were to go smoothly and your house sold with… Continue reading Different Types of Real Estate Agents

6 Things to Do Before You List Your Home

When it comes to selling your house, timing is everything. Picking the wrong time to list your home could cost you in missed opportunities. But picking the right time can lead to a faster sale and a higher final price. There are many factors that go into deciding when is the best time to sell your house. Some of these factors are more objective than others, such as comparing the price of similar homes currently on the market. Other considerations are subjective and require more personal judgment. Like whether you’re ready to move or if there will be repairs needed before putting your house on the market. Here are six things you need to do before you list your home if you want to get the best price and fastest sale possible. Know your market Knowing your current real estate market is the first of things to do before your list your home. What are houses like in your area selling for now? How long are they staying on the market? Are properties are being bought as fixer-upper projects? How much are they going for after renovations? These are the types of questions you need to know the answer to before you put your house on the market. Choose the right Realtor This may be obvious to most people who are plan to list their home for sale, but choosing a good real estate broker is essential if you want to sell your home for the best price. The best way to approach this is to talk to two or three different real estate brokers and ask relevant questions. Examples of good questions to ask are “how many homes do you list each year” or “what is your marketing strategy for your clients’. Depending on their answers, you may have some follow up questions as well. The most important thing to remember is that your real estate agent will be your partner throughout the entire home selling process. They should be helpful and available when you need them. Decide on your listing price You probably already know that the final selling price for your house can be influenced by the price you set for it. However, the way this process works is often unknown to the average homeowner, so it’s important to understand how price determines final sale price. Of course, this is what your real estate broker is for. You’ve probably heard the saying, “Price it to sell it.” This means that you should price your house at the amount that you think it’s worth. Pricing the home too high may lead to a longer listing time. But pricing it too low means that you may be leaving money on the table. When comparing the asking price of your house to others on the market, you’ll want to consider a few things. First, are there comparable houses on the market? If so, what are they selling for? Second, what is your house’s condition compared to theirs? If your house… Continue reading 6 Things to Do Before You List Your Home

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Portland’s Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Portland realty market suffered the same fate during the pandemic. The “Shelter in Place” orders almost brought Portland’s real estate market to a halt less than two years ago. In just a few months, however, there are positive signs of activity, just like elsewhere in the country. Particularly, Portland’s housing market trends were the beneficiaries of continued buying and selling. Investors should be excited for 2022 and beyond, given the amount of activity that has been generated in recent years.  The most encouraging aspect of today’s market is the potential created by the Coronavirus disruption. Investors can capitalize on the new market landscape by finding the right exit strategies and knowing where to look. As many people are more comfortable moving to suburban areas, prices will likely rise. COVID-19, specifically, has made it possible for more people to work remotely, eliminating the necessity to live near an office. People will also be avoiding Coronavirus hotbeds within the city limits. This should encourage more people to search for suburban alternatives. People are already moving to suburban areas in response to national trends. The Portland housing market is no exception. Recent trends should be taken into consideration by the Portland real estate investment community. Even the most basic Portland housing market forecast predicts a migration from “suburbia” to city living. Prices may fall and vacancies could rise. People who want to benefit from the latest trends should consider suburban areas. For those who are in it for the long-term, prices may drop in the city. Apartments within the city may be available at a discounted price if they do. Portland is the second-largest Pacific Northwest city and is an ideal place to settle down and raise children. It boasts friendly neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and outdoor recreation. These are the five best Portland neighborhoods for families! Forest Park Hillsdale Irvington Sellwood-Moreland Southwest Hills Forest Park Home Price: $664,927 median purchase price; $900 median monthly rent Safety: More than 81% of Portland Neighborhoods are safer than the crime rate Forest Park is a great place to live in Portland if you have kids. Forest Park is located adjacent to this neighborhood. This means that you can find great condos as well as larger single-family homes in the area. You are also close to amazing outdoor activities. Forest Park is a great place to get a good education. Families have access to top schools such as Stoller Middle School and Cedar Mill Elementary. Things to do in Forest Park Forest Park offers more than 5,000 acres worth of trails, woodlands and green spaces for you to explore with your family. You can take your children birdwatching with you or find out more about the care Portland Audubon provides for injured or orphaned animals. Oregon Zoo has everything you need, from red pandas to giraffes. You can visit Pittock Mansion, Portland’s House on the Hill. Here you can tour the historic house and take in the views of the Cascade Mountains. Skyline Burger is a… Continue reading Portland’s Best Neighborhoods for Families

Sell Your Home With a Flat Fee Realtor

Sellers have many options to choose from as the trends in the real estate market change. It can be difficult to sort through all the options. There are advantages and disadvantages to some options. Flat fee realtors are your best choice if you want to trade for a lower price but still receive great listing and contract assistance. They can give you all the knowledge you need to get through the home selling process, including some tips for selling your house and up-to-date technology. This is why you should choose a flat fee realtor to help you sell your house. Definition of a Flat Fee Realtor Flat fee realtors are also known as discount real estate agents or brokers. They charge a flat fee regardless of the final sale price. They do not charge large commissions for your home’s sale but charge a fixed rate instead. They offer great returns and won’t cost you a lot. You can market and buy a home faster than a traditional realtor! How Does Flat Fee Real Estate Work? A flat fee realtor, instead of the traditional commission based on percentages, will help you list your home via MLS for a fixed fee. They only offer basic assistance, so you won’t receive end-to-end support. These may include closing, pricing, marketing, and closing. You can also request additional services beyond the ones they offer by paying an additional fee. They offer some help for multiple services such as the negotiation process, social media marketing, home inspections, home staging, open houses, professional photography, key lockboxes, and more! Why Should I Hire a Flat Fee Realtor to Sell My Home? Cut Your Expenses in Half The easiest and most popular option today is to hire a traditional real estate agent, but this means that you will have to spend a lot to get the job done. A full-time realtor may charge a commission of as much as 6% on the sale.  Although FSBO (For sale by owner) can reduce the commission fee, it is not a great deal if the multiple listing service (MLS) is excluded from the package. Without access to a high-quality MLS, it can be difficult to get buyers and agents to find properties for sale. Flat fee realtors are a cost-friendly option that allows for efficient listing and processing. Flat fee realtors can save you the 6% commission split, and allow you to do more work yourself. Instead of paying a thousand dollars in expenses and commissions, you only have to pay a few hundred! Less Commitment Required Flat fee real estate offers home sellers another reason to choose it because there is way less commitment involved. You must agree to several conditions when you use the traditional method. This type of brokerage can lead to you wasting time and money, as well as leaving you with unfulfilled expectations. You need to avoid getting caught up in the trap of allowing unimaginable factors to sabotage your selling experience. Flat fee brokerages allow you… Continue reading Sell Your Home With a Flat Fee Realtor

What You Should Know About Financing Your Property in Mexico

The majority of Mexican real estate deals have been settled in cash in the past. With the stabilization in the Mexican peso, and the increase in international property sales worldwide, it is possible to obtain mortgages for Mexican real estate purchases from both Mexican and international banks. It is extremely important to understand your financing options before owning property in Mexico. The first thing to consider when financing your Mexican property with a mortgage is whether to get a Peso-mortgage (i.e., a Mexican mortgage) or a foreign-currency-mortgage (i.e. A dollar-denominated mortgage from an international bank. There are many “cross-border” mortgages that allow you to take out a loan in another currency, and then secure it through Mexican property. This is due to increasing interest in Mexican properties. Mortgages Using Mexican Pesos An FM2 visa (migrant visa) is required by most Mexican banks to prove that you are a Mexican resident. Some banks will accept you even if you do not have an FM3 visa (non-migrant). This proves that you are financially stable enough to own a home or start real estate investing in Mexico. Although banks in Mexico are expanding their mortgage lending, it’s still difficult to get a mortgage. Even with excellent financial records, most banks won’t finance 100% of the property’s value. Most mortgage loans are only available for a maximum of 20 year terms. The interest rate on mortgages in foreign currencies is generally higher than that of fixed-interest mortgages.  Mortgages Using Foreign Currency International banks, often with Mexican subsidiaries, and specialised mortgage firms provide foreign currency mortgages for Mexican properties. These ‘cross-border loans” are primarily for US and Canadian citizens who want to purchase property in Mexico. However, there are some European mortgage providers that can be used for Mexican estate. For Mexican estate, foreign currency mortgages are available for 3 to 30 years and can be limited to 75% of the property’s value. Banks will often require a minimum loan amount of $100,000 US dollars in many cases. Different banks and mortgage providers have different interest rates and they can be linked with international benchmark rates which are generally lower than mortgages using Mexican pesos but higher than property mortgages in the US or Europe.  What You Need to Remember About Paperwork & Fees A mortgage can have a number of charges, including credit scoring fees, commissions, and charges for property insurance. There may be penalties for late payment on some mortgage products. This information should be checked in advance if you are considering early repayment of your mortgage. Banks will need proof of income, credit history, bank references, and statements from the most recent months, as well as your official identification and your immigration documents (if applicable). Mortgage approvals can take several weeks even if the bank tries to speed up the process. Even if your bank has technically given you a yes, it may still take some time before the final paperwork is completed and the loan can be released. This is something… Continue reading What You Should Know About Financing Your Property in Mexico

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Which Area of Los Cabos Should I Invest In?

Baja California Sur appeals to many of those who are interested in purchasing investment properties in a unique, bustling area. Each area in Los Cabos offers something different to those who are looking for a lifestyle that suits their needs. Cabo San Lucas Cabo San Lucas is a world-famous spot that offers many special features to attract droves of people to the area every year. It is recognized for its vibrant nightlife and clubs that appeal to tourists of all ages. However, Cabo is also well-known for its luxury developments that provide first-class luxury and stunning views of the ocean for the wealthy. These homes are a mix of modern and traditional architectural elements, many of which were built into the steep Pedregal Cliffs which rise high above the ocean. The marina and shopping area are bustling with tourists and locals who enjoy the abundant restaurants, upscale shopping centers, and ocean activities, such as jet-skiing and charter fishing. Cabo San Lucas is the ideal place for deep-sea fishermen due to the many tournaments and charity events hosted there. There are many boat tours available at the marina, including glass bottom boat tours and even submarine tours. You can even see the sea lions who have chosen to make the marina their home while walking on the dock. This is a great place to search for any type of investment property, such as luxury homes and Cabo San Lucas condos for sale. San Jose Del Cabo Although San Jose del Cabo is only 20 minutes away, it offers a completely different experience. San Jose del Cabo is more focused on familial living and has a downtown art district as well as other kid-friendly amenities. This is a more traditionally Mexican area with a less crowded nightlife. However, there’s a marina for boat owners, as well as several large developments that offer luxury villas overlooking the beautiful sea. San Jose is a treasure trove of charms, including its private art galleries, the lively town square, and traditional colonial architecture. In the high season, there are weekly art activities to indulge in, which is a great way for you to mingle while taking in the local atmosphere. The international airport is also located just north of the town. Although San Jose attracts its tourists to its higher-end hotels, it still gives the impression that this is a traditional Mexican town with plenty of options to choose from for investment properties. East Cape The East Cape is located to the northeast of San Jose. This area is ideal for people who want to live in quieter and more peaceful areas. It is a more remote area with less amenities, but it offers a chance to enjoy nature at its best. The East Cape is an ideal location for those who are looking for more private and unique real estate investing opportunities and for eco-conscious homeowners who want to live off the grid and in a more private setting. However, there are some newer upscale… Continue reading Which Area of Los Cabos Should I Invest In?

Mold Removal & Your Safety

Mold removal is something many homeowners face every year. Mold can come in many forms, including mildew and black mold. This problem should not be taken lightly because even though most molds are harmless, having too much of this kind of fungus can cause damage to a home and may even make it uninhabitable. The best way to deal with mold removal is by using natural solutions that will work quickly and safely in a wide variety of household situations. What is Mold & Why is Mold Removal Important? Mold removal is not just about aesthetics. It’s about safety as well, which is why it is very important for you to seek professional advice on the matter before you do any work on your home. Mold and mildew can affect many different parts of your life, and it isn’t something that you want to ignore or fail to take care of because you think it will take care of itself. Mold and mildew are a fungal infection that grows on damp, moist areas. Mold is part of our natural environment and performs an important role in nature by breaking-down dead organic matter including fallen leaves, trees, and dead flowers; inside, mold can take root in many different places, including in your walls, floors, and other places where moisture is plentiful. Why is Mold a Concern for Homeowners? Some of the main concerns homeowners have regarding a mold problem include having an unstable home, a noticeable lack of energy and health risks for family members. Mold or mildew, also sometimes called fungus, is an organic growth that grows on wet, damp objects. Mold is part of our environment and plays a vital role in nature; inside, mold loves moist decaying, unseasoned materials such as fallen trees and dead leaves; outdoors, mold grows wherever it has access to moisture and warmth. Those who are getting into real estate investing should make sure they get a home inspection done so that leaks or mold can be identified as soon as possible. While there are many different ways to handle a mold problem, one of the best options is to use an expert mold remediation company to test your house and determine the extent of the water damage. What Health Problems Can Arise From Mold in the Home? Mold and mildew growing in your home can trigger an assortment of health problems for you and your family. You may start to suffer from allergic reactions, nose and throat irritations, breathing difficulties, and even more serious health issues like asthma, chronic coughs, and wheezing. The best way to prevent this from happening is to take proper mold removal and indoor air quality control seriously. There are serious risks involved if you don’t. It’s imperative that you take steps to keep your home as mold-free as possible. If you suspect that there might be mold growing in your house, you must act quickly. What Can Be Done About Water Problems in the Home? A qualified professional… Continue reading Mold Removal & Your Safety

5 Best Vacation Spots in Mexico

Mexico is a fascinating country in North America. It is constantly bordered by the US; by the Pacific Ocean; and by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea. Mexico, in addition to being a very interesting landmass, is also rich in culture, as it has many cultures ranging from Spanish to Indian. Indeed, Mexico is much more than a vacation spot for travelers, but rather a complete travel experience. Cozumel Located along the southern part of Mexico along the Pacific Ocean, Cozumel is primarily known for its renowned scuba diving along its famous reefs. At Chichimeca State Park there is diving available around a major portion of the Mesoamerican Reef, which also includes the famous ‘Blue Hole’. Chankanaab is also an exclusive national park located around a large lagoon at the edge of Arrecife. There are a number of popular resorts on the island, as well as a large number of beautiful beaches and wonderful snorkeling experiences at the many marine life reserves found on the island. Chichimeca State Park features some great diving opportunities off its shallow and clear waters and includes beautiful coral formations such as sponges, hermit crabs and giant clams. The island’s marine life has led to the creation of several marine reserves around the island, such as the Marine Turtle Protection Area and the Marine Turtle Plazas. Chichimeca also boasts a beautiful beach resort, Le Bec de La Plata, with its own natural spa facility. Some of the other activities that you can enjoy on Cozumel include a visit to the dinosaur theme park Terra Mitica. Here, you’ll get to meet and have fun with all kinds of prehistoric animals including Triceratops, T-Rex, Velociraptors and more. Other exciting activities include snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, catamaraning, and much more. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Cozumel Mexico, then you might consider taking a trip to this amazing island! Merida Located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast just east of Tijuana, Merida offers a wide range of activities and tourist attractions for visitors to choose from. While many choose to visit the beach for their day out on the town, Merida also has much to offer those looking for historical attractions, as well as nature-based activities and tours. The beautiful town is a favorite among the local Mexican population, which is also home to several different ethnic groups and cultures. Merida is considered a melting pot of nationalities and influences, and is one of the best locations to experience Mexico’s history and culture at its most authentic. One of the activities you will enjoy is Chichen Itza which is the largest of all the historical ruins in the world. This location was used by the Aztecs as their capital and has been called the place where the Miracle of the Sun happened. While in Chichen Itza, you should take a day trip to Celestun which is one of the four famous spas in the world. The next stop after Chechen Itza is Celestin which has been called,… Continue reading 5 Best Vacation Spots in Mexico