Using Technology In Home Buying

couple with laptop and cellphone | On Target Home Inspection | home buying Orland Park Orland Park Home Inspection: 4 ways to use technology to simplify your home buying process

 

While spring is typically the busiest period in real estate, particularly for families looking to get into a new home before the school year starts. The fall months have become increasingly active for those who have more flexibility or are looking for a good deal.

 

 

With increased competition in many cities around the country, finding ways to simplify the home buying process while saving money is top of mind for potential home buyers. Many consumers are seeking real estate brokerages that make the home buying process less stressful by providing access to tech-based tools, data and the guidance of smart, local agents.

 

 

“Buying a home is typically the most expensive purchase most people will make, and people are choosing brokerages that offer the right tools and data to help inform their decisions and make the process more efficient,” said Dario Cardile, Vice President, Growth Marketing at Owners.com. “Savvy home buyers are utilizing technology and data to inform their home search, but are also demonstrating that they value working with an expert local agent who can offer on-the-ground expertise and help them get the best deal.”

 

 

Cardile offers these tips for ways potential home buyers can utilize technology to simplify the real estate process.

 

* Ensure that your finances are in order.

To purchase the home of your dreams you’ll need the right loan. So before you begin your search, request a free annual copy of your credit report from the government-authorized AnnualCreditReport.com. Pay attention to the scores in your report. The better your scores, the more likely you are to receive favorable terms and interest rates on your loan.

 

 

* Narrow your housing search.

Searching for homes on the internet is easy, but finding the one that is just right for you can be more difficult. Fortunately, Owners.com can help, as it leverages data and technology to connect you to homes matching your personal preferences and ranks those homes based on the features you highlight as being most important. The platform also notifies you of regular updates on the properties of your interest. Also, suggests similar properties based on your preferences. You will have access to local listings from the Multiple Listing Service and for-sale-by-owner properties, so you don’t miss out on a potential home.

 

 

* Explore the area before you get there.

Whether it’s a local dog park, fun shops to visit on the weekend or a quaint bistro for a night out, your neighborhood needs extend beyond the walls of your home. Fortunately, hyper-localized data such as walk scores, neighborhood and school information and modern mapping solutions can give you insights into the entire community before you even start your search. And don’t be afraid to look up area attractions on social media and read some reviews. It’s a great way to learn what everyone is saying about your potential neighborhood.

 

 

* Find the right agent.

A great real estate agent can help you save time and money in the real estate process. While many consumers are self-informing their search with online data, a recent survey from Owners.com of more than 1,000 recent home buyers nationwide found that the majority (83 percent) worked with an agent to purchase their home. The full-service website and mobile app make it easy to find a local agent that’s right for you. They provide you with the digital tools to make the process less stressful. An expert local agent can provide inside knowledge of the property and community, on-the-ground expertise. They will help you strike the best deal to get into your dream home.

 

 

*Finding the best home for you.

The fall real estate market won’t wait for you. So start your planning now and begin your housing search with the power of technology at your fingertips. With you, your agent and technology working hand in hand, your dream house is there for the taking.

 

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Floor Cleaning 101

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Home Inspection Orland Park: Floor Cleaning 101

 

Flooring trends change through the years as homeowners acquire new tastes and technology allows for a larger variety of flooring designs. Deep ebony and driftwood finishes peaked in 2017, while 2018 trends are pushing toward wider planks, gray tones and even durable porcelain tiles designed to mirror wood grains.

 

As today’s flooring choices evolve, the importance of maintaining a clean floor remains constant, especially if you have kids and pets. But, clean floors don’t need to translate to hour-long scrubbing sessions on your knees. Instead, it should take minimal work to get the job done and it shouldn’t matter what type of floor you have. Here are some tricks and tips on the best ways to get your floors looking new and spotless in no time:

 

 

Laminate floors

Even though your laminate floors might look like hardwood or tile, you still need to care for them a certain way. It’s important that you keep water from getting under the planks, so it’s recommended that you regularly dry mop or vacuum the floors. A multi-surface spray mop like the Rejuvenate Click n Clean will allow you to quickly pick up dust and food particles with its microfiber dusting pad. For a deeper clean, simply click the appropriate cleaning solution for your floor type into the mop and attach the reusable microfiber cleaning pad and swivel away for a beautiful, professional clean. You never want to polish laminate floors and, if a plank looks damaged, it is best that you just replace it with a new one.

 

 

Linoleum floors

These type of floors are easily susceptible to water damage, so you need to clean them with caution. Vacuum them to prevent scratches and wipe up any spills as soon as they happen. You can spray a linoleum floor in sections and then wipe with a damp cloth as you go. If sticky messes find their way onto linoleum floors, use a soft, scrubbing pad to clean it up.

 

 

Hardwood floors

Most hardwood floors have either a wax or polyurethane finish. Waxed hardwood floors can be damaged with even small amounts of water, so keep damp mops away from this type of floor and just dust mop and vacuum it daily. Depending on the amount of traffic or abuse the floor takes, consider a floor cleaner with a safe, non-toxic neutral pH-balanced formula as it will not leave behind film, residue or streaks, just a clean fresh scent.

 

 

Tile and grout flooring

If you have stubborn stains or dirt embedded in grout lines, you can opt for a deep grout cleaner. Simply spray it on the floor, let it sit for a few minutes and then scrub it with the Click n Clean grout brush. Without the use of harsh, acidic chemicals, dingy grout will become brighter, lighter and stay clean long after you are done.

For more floor care tips, visit www.RejuvenateProducts.com. (BPT)

 

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Dream Bathroom Sanctuary

elegant white bathroom | On Target Home Inspection | Dream Bathroom Orland Park

Home Inspection Orland Park: 3 Elements To Create A Dream Bathroom Sanctuary

 

 

Bathrooms reign supreme, overtaking kitchens as the most popular remodeling project, according to a new survey by the National Association of Home Builders. In the study, remodelers reported on the most common projects in 2017 and 81 percent performed bathroom remodeling.

 

 

Whether you’re hiring the project out or taking the DIY route, fashioning the bathroom of your dreams can enhance your home’s value and add enjoyment to your daily routine. A leading trend in bathroom design is to create a space that is not only functional but is a true sanctuary. To craft a spa-like bath setting that you’ll love for years to come, consider these elements.

 

 

1. Sinks and vanities

Clutter causes chaos that can add to daily stress. To establish a peaceful retreat without the disorder that commonly overtakes bathrooms, it’s important to keep an organization in mind when selecting a sink and vanity combination. The key is to find a balance between style and functionality.

 

 

Consider the DXV Modulus collection, which creates simple yet dramatic spaces with a selection of trending materials and finishes for optimum style. Its modular concept, highlighted with minimalistic bathroom sinks and coordinating vanities, allows for maximum flexibility in installation and organization. It brings high design to any project, including master bathrooms and powder rooms, where space may be at a premium.

 

 

2. Freestanding tubs

When you select the right tub for your new bathroom, you’re giving yourself a way to unwind every day, as well as provide a stunning focal point to anchor the space. Deep soak freestanding tubs are a top trend for the ultimate in bathing relaxation. Immersing yourself in the warm water of a soaking tub can help ease muscle tension, making you feel like you’re at the spa while bathing in the comfort of your own home.

 

 

Soothing, romantic and indulgent, DXV soaking tubs create the perfect personal sanctuary. This must-have showstopper adds style, repose and a touch of luxury that elevates any bathroom setting.

 

 

3. Shower systems

Forget boring single showerheads. Today’s complete shower systems go beyond the basic clean to provide a comprehensive bathing experience. Design the space to fit your preferences with different sprays and various angles for massage, invigoration or total relaxation. You can adjust the flow and temperature to your liking. It’s customization on demand.

 

 

To further enhance the shower experience, add in spa-like elements, like your choice of adjustable lighting and music to match your mood. Go ahead and close your eyes, feel the water, and escape while getting lost in your favorite tunes.

 

 

With the right elements and well-thought-out design, you can craft your own personal oasis. Adding to your home’s value while relishing in its pleasure – now that’s a dream come true. (BPT)

 

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5 Kitchen Safety Tips

a man grilling | On Target Home Inspection | Kitchen Safety Tips Orland Park

Watch what you heat: Orland Park Home Inspection 5 kitchen safety tips

 

Cooking equipment is the top cause of home fires, and the second leading cause of home fire deaths, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

 

“Considered to be one of the more preventable types of fires, kitchen fires can be avoided by following a few common-sense guidelines,” says Tarsila Wey, director of marketing at First Alert. “Home safety experts recommend having at least one fire extinguishing product conveniently located in the kitchen, as well as on every level of the home and in the garage.”

 

Be prepared to fight the small flames by following the below tips to stay safe in the kitchen.

Properly equip your home.

Keep your family and house safe by ensuring that functioning smoke alarms are installed throughout your home. The NFPA recommends one alarm on every floor, including the basement, and inside every bedroom. In addition, install smoke alarms at least 10 feet from cooking appliances to minimize false alarms. All alarms should be tested monthly, and for alarms without 10-year batteries, replace the batteries every six months.

 

 

Keep an eye on your food.

Staying in the kitchen while cooking is key to preventing oven or stovetop fires. Whether you’re simmering, baking, boiling or roasting, check on your food regularly. If you need a reminder that the oven or stove is on, just set a timer. Be aware that fires can happen fast, so if you must leave the kitchen – even for a short period of time – turn off the stove.

 

 

Clean your appliances.

Keep all your appliances clean of grease and food debris that could potentially cause a fire. Clear the toaster of crumbs and wipe down the stovetop as needed. Ovens should be cleaned at least every three to six months.

 

 

Clear off kitchen countertops.

Keep your countertops clean and clear of flammable objects. Move items such as pot holders, wooden utensils, plastic bags, food packaging and paper towels away from the stove, oven or any other kitchen device that generates heat.

 

Be prepared when disaster strikes.

Over 70 percent of fire extinguisher owners say that they would not feel very comfortable actually operating one. Providing homeowners with a user-friendly, affordable solution, the First Alert Tundra Fire Extinguishing Spray features a lightweight spray-can design that has no pins or levers – making it easy to use. It can put out common household fires, including cooking oil, fabric, paper, wood and electrical fires. Tundra sprays four times longer than an average fire extinguisher and fits perfectly in your kitchen cabinet. Plus, it won’t damage your stove or countertop; simply wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.

 

 

Having the necessary fire safety tools and knowledge, and talking with your family members about these safety precautions, can help prevent potentially fatal kitchen fires. To learn more tips and tricks, visit www.FirstAlert.com. (BPT)

 

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Home Improvement Projects

a woman inside the simple house | On Target Home Inspection | home improvement projects Orland Park

Orland Park Home Inspection’s Quick DIY Home Improvement Projects

 

The words home improvement usually conjure up images of major undertakings like tiling your bathroom or kitchen or tearing down a wall, taking hours or even days to complete. The fact is there are some meaningful home improvements you can finish in under two hours.

 

1) Need more daylight?

Have you ever wished your home had more daylight? Maybe you want to bring light to a small place like a closet or laundry room. Or maybe you have a room with a window but still not enough light. One solution is a daylighting system from Solatube. This product can be installed in under two hours and floods the interior with natural light.

 

 

2) Concerned about security?

Installing a video doorbell takes just a few minutes and you can monitor visitors at your front door on your smartphone through an app. This is a way to add some security to your home. You can be anywhere with your phone but answer your front door and see who’s there. They have no idea where you are, home or otherwise.

 

 

3) Dealing with poor indoor air quality?

The upstairs can often be hotter than the downstairs. Air can be humid and wet. House odors from cooking, pets, etc., can hang around. A Whole House Fan is quiet (with a light white noise) and can be installed without reframing. When you open the windows with the whole house fan on, it strips out the heat from the home as well as the unwelcome smells. In summer months it keeps the house cooler and it eliminates stale air in the winter.

 

 

4) Considering a new bathroom fan?

Another product that installs quickly is an upgraded bathroom fan. It comes with a variety of options such as heaters and lights. An upgraded bathroom fan can dramatically reduce bathroom humidity and odors and run more quietly.

white bathroom | On Target Home Inspection | Home Improvement projects Orland Park

5) Still using outdated light bulbs?

An easy home improvement project is to swap out light bulbs for LEDs. Even CFL bulbs can’t hold a candle to LED bulbs, which, while more expensive, last up to 20 years or more.

 

This gives you an idea of some ways to spruce up your home in under two hours. But the changes will be long-lasting!

 

For more easy home improvement ideas, visit www.solatube.com/residential.

 

 

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4 Unusual Homeowners Claims

A black bear in the living room | On Target Home Inspection | Home Owners Claims Orland ParkYou’re covered: Orland Park Home Inspection 4 unusual homeowners claims you didn’t think would ever happen

 

Homeowners insurance is a practical investment to help protect you, your family and your property in the event of unforeseen and unexpected losses. Traditionally, it’s associated with fire damage, burst or leaking pipes, or stolen property, but occasionally it covers unusual events that make for sensational news stories and viral videos.

 

 

Here are four claims homeowners never thought would happen to them.

 

1. Bear B&B

Bears are notoriously curious and intelligent creatures that also have an acute sense of smell.

 

People who live in areas with bears for neighbors must not entice them with the aromas of food. Keep doors and windows on ground floors closed and locked while cooking or if you leave the house. A bear can easily get through the screen of an open window or manipulate a lever-like door handle to enter your home and cause significant damage.

 

“Encountering a bear inside your home would be a very frightening experience,” says Christopher O’Rourke, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Safety should be your first priority, so call your local police or animal control station to have them help you with the situation. You can worry about any potential damages after the animal leaves the residence because your homeowner’s policy will most likely cover any damage to your home (though not your personal property) unless of course, the bear is a family pet.”

 

2. The sky is falling

China’s Tiangong-1 space station plummeted back to Earth and made its re-entry into the atmosphere earlier this year, breaking apart over the southern Pacific Ocean. The odds of debris from the space station hitting you were less than one in 1 trillion, according to the Aerospace Corporation. If it had hit your home, though, homeowners insurance would’ve covered it.

 

3. Your house is stolen

Yes, you read that correctly. Your homeowners’ insurance will cover the entire house, not just the contents inside if it is stolen.

 

O’Rourke explains, “We had an insured who was away on vacation and when he returned the foundation of his home was all that remained.

 

“A house moving company had mixed up the address with another house down the street that was scheduled to be moved. The movers came in, transported the house to another location and thought their job was done – wrong!

 

“You can only imagine his surprise at the mistake. While homeowners insurance covered the cost of getting things restored back to normal, I would suspect this was one of the strangest situations any insurer has ever encountered,” says O’Rourke.

 

4. Fore!

Golf is a leisurely pastime enjoyed by millions in the U.S. It involves strolling across greens and riding in golf carts, so its slow pace may seem low-risk, but it can actually be quite dangerous. According to an article in Golf Digest magazine, nearly 40,000 golfers are admitted to emergency rooms annually after being injured while playing, most by errant golf balls and flying club heads.

 

Recreational golfers can also cause a lot of damage to personal property. If you live on a golf course, your house has probably been hit many times by errant shots – breaking windows, damaging roofs and leaving divots in exterior walls.

 

So, who’s responsible for these injuries and damage?

 

“Simply put, the golfer who hit the shot is responsible,” says O’Rourke. “There is good news, however, because recreational golfers would be covered by homeowners, condo owners or renters insurance policy for damage or injuries that result from the wayward shot.”

 

Mercury recommends reviewing your homeowners’ insurance policy annually with your local insurance agent to ensure that you’re adequately covered for any unforeseen losses, both unusual and ordinary. (BPT)

 

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Paint Like A Pro

Contractor painting the ceiling | On Target Home Inspection | paint like a pro Orland ParkPaint like a pro with Orland Park Home Inspection 5 easy steps

Nothing transforms a home quite like a fresh coat of paint. In fact, painting your own house is one of the smartest and easiest DIY upgrades a homeowner can accomplish on their own.

 

“Summer is the ideal time to tackle a painting project, as the warmer temperatures lead to faster drying times, and you can comfortably leave the windows open for better ventilation,” said Megan Youngs, Product Manager at DAP. “Just remember, a little bit of preparation goes a long way toward creating a professional look that will last for years to come.”

Before reaching for a paintbrush, follow these paint preparation tips from the experts at DAP.

 

  • Clean Up Your Act 

Paint adheres better to a smooth, clean surface. While living room walls may only need a dry dusting, kitchens, and bathrooms, where dirt, grease, oil or mildew can build up, need extra attention. Wash surfaces with soap and water, rinse well and allow them to fully dry. For bathrooms, remove mildew by applying a solution of one part bleach to three parts water and allow the solution to sit for 20 minutes. Then scrub the mildew with a soft-bristle brush, rinse the surface and allow it to dry. Be sure to wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when working with this bleach-and-water solution.

 

  • Scrape and Sand

Now that the surface is dry, smooth down the surface with a bit of fine-grit sandpaper. This is particularly important if painting over a glossy finish, as paint applies more evenly to dull surfaces. In addition, going over the area with sandpaper will help uncover any cracks, holes or dents that could diminish the final look of your project. Another pro tip is to shine a bright light at a low angle across the surface to spot any problem areas. After you have sanded or scraped the area, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or residue.

 

  • Don’t Forget the Details 

Anyone can paint over a wide, smooth surface, but it’s the attention to detail around windows and doors that truly separates a mediocre job from the pros. Use painter’s tape to protect windowsills, molding, baseboards, door hinges and the ceiling perimeter, taking your time to ensure that every corner is properly protected. These areas are also prone to gaps and cracks. Remove any loose or cracked caulking from windows, doors, and trim, and apply a fresh bead of sealant for a smooth, sealed surface. Alex Flex Premium Molding & Trim Sealant is specifically formulated for use on molding and trim applications. The sealant is paintable in just 30 minutes with latex or oil-based paints, saving time and resulting in a seamless, more professional finish.

 

  • Fill It Up 

Now it’s time to tackle the main surface. Cracks, holes, and dents will mar the finished project, so apply spackle to fill in these areas. Open a container of the pre-mixed spackling compound and scoop up a small amount with a putty knife. There’s no need to pile it on. Instead, start with a small amount, and with a shallow knife strike, spread the compound over the hole or crack in a smooth, downward motion. Repeat until the hole is completely filled in. Want to get rid of those stubborn recurring cracks? Reach for Alex Flex Flexible Spackling, which provides maximum flexibility and moves with the repaired surface as problem areas expand and contract with changes in weather and humidity. It’s also easy to sand to a smooth, feathered-edge finish and is paintable for a seamless repair.

 

  • Paint with Precision 

Make the job go easier and faster by having a variety of brushes and rollers on hand. Rollers are great for covering large, wide surfaces, but for a professional look around edges and corners, you’ll need smaller brushes for the right amount of detailed work. Moisten rollers and brushes in water beforehand, as this will help the paint glide more smoothly onto the surface. Allow the first coat of paint to completely dry, and then apply a second coat to ensure smooth, even coverage. Once the second coat is dry, carefully pull up any painter’s tape and voila! Your space is transformed!

 

For more information on DAP products for your next DIY project, visit DAP.com. (BPT)

 

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Top 4 Factors That Affect The Cost Of A New Roof

Orland Park Home Inspection Explains The Cost Of A New Roof

top view of the house roofNo one wants to pay more for something that they have to, especially when it comes to a large home improvement purchase. So, why can there be thousands of dollars difference between contractor bids for neighboring homes? And how can homeowners get an idea of what a new roof will cost?

In general, labor for a new roof should make up 60-65 percent of the cost and most of the remaining cost, 30-35 percent, should be the cost for materials, according to Rick Taylor, a longtime roofing contractor now working as a training manager for TAMKO Building Products, Inc. After labor and materials, the remaining costs, approximately 5-10 percent of the total, should consist of disposal for any building materials that need to be removed and any additional fees like paying to have the shingles craned up to the roof or renting scaffolding for the job.

As for the specific dollar figure, there are many factors that go into a roofing bid. Here are the top four factors that can affect the cost of a new roof.

  • Size

The larger the house, the larger the roof, and the more shingles needed to cover it. According to industry standards, one square of shingles is the amount needed to cover 100 square feet of roof, and as a rule of thumb for most three-tab and laminated shingles, there are three shingle bundles in each square. To estimate the number of squares needed, divide the total square feet by 100.

When calculating how much roofing you need, be sure to take into account any additional, detached buildings that would benefit from having a matching roof to the main house — for example, a detached garage, sheds or gazebos.

  • Pitch

The pitch, or angle, of your roof, can also affect the cost of re-roofing. A roof with a steep pitch can increase the final roof bid as contractors may build in additional costs for more safety equipment and a longer timetable to complete.

“Typically, a single-story house is considered ‘walkable’ and is going to be easier to roof, but steep-roofed houses and anything two-story is going to be considered ‘non-walkable’ and will cost more to re-roof,” Taylor said.

  • Roofing material

The type of roofing chosen will also affect the final cost. Three-tab asphalt shingles are some of the most economical options but tend to have shorter warranties than the more popular laminated architectural shingles. And not all laminated shingles are created equal. Unique or specialty styles, like the added dimension of Heritage(R) Vintage(R) shingles or the extra-wide cut of Heritage Woodgate(R), can also affect the final cost, and may also come with a longer warranty than standard cuts.

Metal shingles carry a higher price tag as well, but also feature longer warranties and potential energy savings. Natural materials like wood shake and stone slate will raise the cost of the roof even more.

  • Type

Whether the roof is a “complete tear-off,” or a “layover” will also affect the final bid. If a contractor has to remove all existing shingles before installing new shingles, the labor and disposal costs will increase. Doing a layover is more economical, although homeowners need to discuss with their contractor what local building codes require and implications for the manufacturer’s warranty. Taylor said TAMKO is one of few manufacturers that will provide a limited warranty and arbitration agreement regarding their laminated shingles when applied over one layer of three-tab shingles.

Consider these four factors and you’ll have a much better handle on how the type of project and options are chosen will affect your new roof’s cost. – (BPT)

 

How Much Does It Cost For A New Roof?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NTnDL23q0A

 

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Products To Improve Your Home In 2 Hours Or Less

Products To Improve Your Home With Orland Park Home Inspection’s Help

a woman finding ways to improve her homeThe words home improvement usually conjure up images of major undertakings like tiling your bathroom or kitchen or tearing down a wall, taking hours and hours to complete the project. The fact is there are some meaningful home improvements you can do that can be accomplished in under two hours.

First, have you ever wished your home had more daylight? Maybe you want to bring in daylight to a small place like a closet or laundry room. Or maybe you have a room with a window but still not enough light. One solution is a daylighting system from Solatube. This product can be installed in under two hours and floods the interior with natural light. For more information, visit www.solatube.com/residential.

Concerned about security? Installing a Ring doorbell takes just a few minutes and you can monitor visitors at your front door on your smartphone through an app. This is a way to add some security to your home. You can be anywhere with your phone but answer your front door and see who’s there. They have no idea where you are, home or otherwise. For information, visit https://ring.com/.

Indoor air quality can be poor. The upstairs can often be hotter than the downstairs. Air can be humid and wet. House odors from cooking, pets, etc., can hang around. A Whole House Fan is quiet (with a light white noise) and can be installed without reframing. When you open the windows with the whole house fan on, it strips out the heat from the home as well as the unwelcome smells. In summer months it keeps the house cooler and eliminates stale air in the winter. For information, visit http://www.solatube.com/whole-house-fans.

Another product that installs quickly is an upgraded bathroom fan. It comes with a variety of options such as heaters and lights. An upgraded bathroom fan can dramatically reduce bathroom humidity and odors and run more quietly. For information, visit https://na.panasonic.com/us/home-living-solutions/ventilation-indoor-air-quality.

An easy home improvement project is to swap out light bulbs for LEDs. Even CFL bulbs can’t hold a candle to LED bulbs, which, while more expensive, last up to 20 years or more. One source for LED bulbs is 1000 Bulbs, www.1000bulbs.com.

This gives you an idea of some ways to spruce up your home in under two hours. But the changes will be long-lasting! – (BPT)

 

Simple DIY Hacks To Help You Improve Your Home

 

 

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5 Home-buying Tips For First-timers And Old-timers

Orland Park Home Inspection Give Tips On Home Buying

A happy family in front of their new homeWhether you are buying a home for the first time or you are just looking for an upgrade, it is never a bad idea to arm yourself with tips that can make your search go from overwhelming to enjoyable. Rather than learning the hard way about hidden expenses and difficult neighbors, there are things you can do to feel more confident as you begin your search.

With a seller’s market in many parts of the country, these tips are even more important as you battle other buyers for the home of your dreams. The more efficient and straightforward you are in your search, the better chance you’ll have to hear “offer accepted.”

  • Consider all the costs

When starting the home-buying journey, the first thing to consider is the cost and expenses. When pre-approved for a mortgage of a certain amount, keep in mind that number is not a target — it is a maximum. While a seller’s market often means little wiggle room on price, your best bet is to find a property below that number so you have a financial cushion when negotiations happen.

It is important to remember the mortgage is not the total cost of your home. It usually only covers principal, interest, property taxes and homeowner’s insurance premiums. Homeownership involves many other expenses like closing costs, home repairs and potential yearly increases in property taxes.

Last, and something few people think about, if you have a life insurance policy, be sure to review it to make sure your coverage takes into account the mortgage debt on your new home. This ensures that if something happens to you, your family is financially secure.

  • Be flexible but firm

Finding the right home requires a delicate balance of flexibility and finesse. At the same time, you want to stand firm when it comes to your non-negotiables in your new home (price, school district, a second bathroom).

This is where having a real estate agent can be of enormous benefit. Agents have the expertise and time to devote to your search that allows you to flex when an opportunity arises and get a home that doesn’t break your budget. Finding the right agent is a lot like finding the right home — you need to do your research. Get referrals for accredited agents and have meetings with two or three of them before deciding who to hire. Make sure they have experience working with homes in your price point and are familiar with the areas you are looking to buy in. Lastly, do not sign an exclusive broker agreement unless you are certain you have found the right agent for you. There are many resources available to help you find an agent that understands your individual needs, such as USAA’s Real Estate Rewards Network.

  • Meet the neighbors

While the location is important, many factors feed into a great neighborhood. From disputes over pets and parking to personality clashes, neighbors can have a big impact on your happiness as a homeowner. Before committing to a neighborhood, take time to walk the street and gauge compatibility with the neighbors you meet. Talking with the neighbors may also reveal hidden quirks about the home you would not have known otherwise, such as a basement that constantly floods or an ongoing dispute about a property line.

  • More house is more work

Television shows have glamorized home renovation. Before deciding on a “fixer upper,” make sure you have a full understanding of what it will take — and how much it will cost — to make the house match your vision. Construction projects often take longer than anticipated and can reveal other problems that end up costing more money. If your home is a complete renovation you also won’t be able to live there during construction, so you need to ask yourself, can you afford to pay for two homes for several months?

Similarly, a larger house means more time and money spent on upkeep. A house with a big yard may have great curb appeal but will you truly use all that space? Be realistic, because the money for maintenance on a bigger house is money in your pocket at a smaller house that has many of the features you want.

Lastly, remember that no home improvement project will change your commute or how noisy the nearby traffic is.

  • Use your head, not your heart

One final piece of advice — do not let your emotions take over the process. Choosing a home can be stressful and overwhelming. It is important to keep a level head. No decision this big should be made on an impulse, so take your time and think through every aspect of the process.

To learn more tips and tricks to buying a home or to find a trusted agent near you, visit USAA’s Home Learning Center. – (BPT)

 

First Time Home Buyers Guide – Tips and Advice

 

 

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Improvements To Help Your Home Sell Faster

Home improvements to help your home sell faster and for more money with Orland Park Home Inspection

house painting | On Target Home Inspection Home sell faster Orland Park, IL

 

The real estate market is heating up, and if you’re planning to sell your home in the future, you want it to sell quickly and for as high of a price as possible. By taking proactive action now, you can make a few strategic home improvements that can help you achieve both your goals.

 

To boost your home sale and reduce time on the market, consider these top home improvement ideas to catch buyers’ eyes.

 

Garage door

When potential buyers visit your property, you want to make the best first impression before they even come inside. That’s why it’s wise to replace your garage door. It takes up a significant amount of exterior visual real estate and helps define the home’s aesthetic. What’s more, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2018 Cost vs. Value report, a garage door replacement recoups an astonishing 98.3 percent of cost upon resale.

 

Bathroom addition

More bathrooms typically mean you can charge more for your home. Think you’re limited based on existing construction? Think again. With Saniflo, you can add a complete bathroom where no drainage existed before thanks to above-floor plumbing features like a macerating toilet and drain pumps. The Saniaccess3 is a smart choice for full baths, and the Saniaccess2 is ideal for powder rooms.

 

kitchen | On Target Home Inspection Orland Park IL

Kitchen upgrade

A complete kitchen remodel is costly, but a few smart upgrades can make the heart of the home shine. Consider replacing worn laminate countertops and updating hardware for a fresh look. For extra ‘wow factor,’ add an island and use Saniflo Sanivite technology to add a sink to the space for additional functionality. Learn more at go.saniflo.com.

 

Fresh flooring

You don’t have to replace all your flooring, but focal areas like the kitchen or family room, as well as areas that tend to experience higher wear, such as the entryway, can benefit from a new floor. Forget expensive tile or hardwood replacements. Vinyl wood flooring looks incredibly similar to real wood, and modern luxury vinyl tile mimics the gorgeous look of stone or ceramic tile but is more durable and affordable. You may be able to simply add new flooring on top of old, making it a much easier DIY project.

 

Neutral paint

Don’t ever underestimate the value of a fresh coat of paint throughout your home. Walls get dingy and colors get dated. Repaint rooms with modern, neutral tones. As much as you love plum, buyers may not, so stick with whites, creams and grays whenever possible. Visit your local paint store and you’ll see there are many neutral options to add excitement to interior spaces. Don’t forget the ceiling, too! A fresh coat of white can do wonders.

 

These five projects will enhance your listing so you get more attention and book more showings. You may even start a bidding war with enough interest, and that can really drive up the price. Take action now and these home improvement efforts are sure to make an impact. (BPT)

 

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Pest Prevention Tips

girl playing soccer ball | On Target Home Inspection | Pest Prevention Orland Park Il

Take the sting out of summer with these Orland Park Home Inspection pest prevention tips

 

If you’re like many people, the warm months of summer are when you are most active outdoors. You’re not alone. The same is also true for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. New findings show these pests are more than just an annoyance, they can pose a health risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, illnesses caused by these pests are on the rise, and in recent years, nine new germs spread by ticks and mosquitoes have been identified or introduced into the U.S.

 

Now more than ever, it’s important to be proactive by putting a plan in place to protect your home and outdoor space from these pests, and any of the other 200 insect types that could inhabit your lawn and enter your home. Start with these five tips:

 

Narrow down your summer guest list

Different pests are drawn to different things. Mosquitoes can breed and thrive in even the smallest amount of water, and yellow jackets enjoy spending time around trash. Many stinging insects are also drawn to the bright bulbs of certain flowers. Remove these appealing targets from your space to keep these unwanted guests away from your family.

 

Protect your home inside and out

When creating your indoor and outdoor pest control strategy, a few preventative measures go a long way. Apply Ortho(R) Home Defense Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter early in the season to protect your home from ants, roaches, and spiders and create a long-lasting barrier around your home to keep bugs out. To protect your yard and keep pests at a minimum, apply Ortho(R) Home Defense Insect Killer for Lawns Granules to your grass. A 10-pound bag treats up to 10,000 square feet and provides three-month protection against listed insects before they can ruin your fun. As always, follow the label directions for any products you apply.

 

Keep your yard clean

Insects love dark, moist areas, many of which can be found in your yard if you don’t keep it tidy. Mow the grass at least once a week so insects have less room to hide and remove debris or clutter as soon as it accumulates, particularly in areas like your wood pile. If you put off these tasks, unwanted visitors may have already moved in.

 

Check your screens

With the windows shut all winter, it’s easy to forget about the condition of your screens when you open them once again. However, even the smallest hole in one of your screens can be all an insect needs to get inside. Check each of your screens — no matter how high the window is off the ground — to be sure it still works, and don’t delay if a replacement must be made.

 

Be proactive about an infestation

When you’re outside, take a moment to look for signs of insect infestation on your property. For example, wasps tend to build their nests in the crooks of your roof and carpenter ants will set up shop in old wood if left to their own devices. Clear these infestations yourself or contact a pest control expert to prevent the problem from growing worse. Don’t assume they’ll go away on their own, or you’ll be dealing with these pests all season long.

 

 

The summer months can be some of the best times of the year, and you should be able to enjoy your summer on your terms. Apply the tips above and you and your family will have a home and yard to enjoy all season. (BPT)

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