Top 5 Things to Look For When Renovating an Older Home

Older homes are usually places that have served families and residents well for many years. However, age does catch up with them. Fortunately, the right renovations can breathe new life into them, preserving their charm and character. Knowing the top things to look for when renovating an older home simplifies the process for you.

Your Budget

How much you can spend on your renovations is up to you and your financial circumstances. If you're doing renovations to improve the property value, you might get a lot of the money back, but only if you have enough to spend in the first place.

HOA Bylaws

Homeowner's association bylaws typically matter more about the landscaping and exterior of a home than the interior, so inside renovations may not matter too much. However, there might be stipulations about noise, clutter, work zones, and the like that impact how and when you do renovations.

HVAC Service

Older homes usually haven't had their HVAC system updated for quite a while, possibly even decades. At the very least, you need a professional HVAC contractor to come out and look over the system for trouble spots, maintenance, and cleaning. They can tell you what needs to be fixed and what your upgrade possibilities are.

Code Issues

The older a home is, the less likely it is to comply with modern codes. Sometimes, the issues are just grandfathered in and allowed. Other times, doing any renovations would mean being legally required to bring the home up to code. Find out what the rules are, and start with a home inspection that lets you know where your home is currently at.

Homeowner's Insurance Rules

Your homeowner's insurance carrier is probably going to be very happy that you're doing renovations to possibly make a home safer and increase its longevity. Then again, they might also have rules that you need to know about in regards to the renovations they will cover, regulations that apply during the work, and the stipulations about the final results.

One Last Thing

If you intend to sell your older home anytime in the near future, then consider what modern buyers are looking for when doing your renovations. Improving the quality of life and function within an older home is always a great thing to do, but catering to contemporary demands can bring a lot of increased property value when you make the sale.

5 Things To Consider Before Buying a Washing Machine

A washing machine can be a sizeable investment and should last you for years and years. As a result, you can’t afford to buy a model that doesn’t meet your needs. You’ll need to examine various criteria to find the right one. Here are five things to consider before buying a washing machine that can help you make your decision.

Which Type You Prefer

Washing machines are available in two main varieties: top-loading and front-loading. Many people prefer to invest in top-loading washing machines because they’re easy to maintain and care for.

You don’t have to switch clothing between tubs in a top-loading washing machine since it has a single tube for washing and rinsing. The device also controls when to take and stop the water during cycles.

You load a front-loading washing machine from the front side since its drum sits horizontally. It boasts sophisticated technology compared to a front-loading machine, but it comes at a premium and requires more maintenance.

Size of the Machine and Space

Take measurements of the available area in your residence where you will install the appliance, then compare them to the dimensions of washing machines in your price range. Washing machines come in assorted sizes, so you can pick one that fits your requirements.

Energy Efficiency

Washing machines require different amounts of energy depending on the type. Despite being easier to use, top-loading washers use more energy than front-loading washers. Therefore, a front-load washer may appeal to you if you want to lower your monthly energy bills. Keep in mind, however, that they have a higher initial investment.

Noise Level

Although washing machines are not the loudest appliances in the house, they produce a lot of noise. As a result, compare the noise levels of several washing machines and select one that performs the most quietly if this is a significant factor for you. You measure noise in decibels (dB), and the higher the dB, the louder the machine.

Machine Design

While this is mainly a matter of personal preference, there is no harm in selecting a visually appealing washer. Many washing machines are now available in various colors and finishes instead of the typical white.

When you apply the five things to consider when buying a washing machine for your purchase, you’re more likely to get the right appliance for your needs. You can thus feel much more confident about your choice.

3 of the Easiest Home Upgrades To Increase Market Value

Whether you want to enhance your home’s current aesthetic or sell the house in the near future, now’s the time to think about its current market value. The real estate market is a tough challenge for some people because they fail to make the necessary changes to improve their current home values. If you’re one of these people, here are three of the easiest home upgrades to increase market value. Whether it’s with a kitchen or bathroom remodel, a finished basement, or landscaping, these improvements will increase buyer demand and asking prices.

Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel

One of the easiest ways to improve any home value is with a kitchen or bathroom remodel. These are two home improvement projects with the highest returns on investment (ROI). Many people recoup about two-thirds of their initial investment.

With a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you want to start small. Replace fixtures, appliances, lighting, cabinets, and hardware first before moving on to floors, countertops, and cabinetry. The more you put into these projects, the higher ROI you can expect.

Finished Basement

Another great home improvement project is a finished basement. This looks better on market listings, and you’ll also have an additional living space in your home. A finished basement can serve many purposes—whether you plan to add a home gym, family room, or bedroom, you can do so and still expect a nice recoup.

If you currently use your basement for storage, now’s the time to declutter and get rid of unwanted junk. You can still use parts of a finished basement for storage, too. The possibilities are endless.

Landscaping and Decking

Landscaping and decking upgrades remain some of the easiest home upgrades to increase market value. No one wants to buy a dull or dreary-looking home. That’s why many real estate agents stress the importance of curb appeal. Lighting, landscaping, and decking are all important facets of prized curb appeal because they accentuate your home’s exterior. For example, consider the possibilities of a plastic fence over traditional wood. It retains the same aesthetic, but the low maintenance and natural moisture and insect resistance make it a cost-efficient alternative to traditional timber. Additionally, prune shrubs, trees, and flower beds to give a greener finish.

How to Decide if It's Time to Replace Your Roof This Spring

Spring is just around the corner, and many homeowners are already thinking about preparing their homes for warmer weather. One of the most common tasks that need to be done during this time of year is replacing your roof. Many people don't think about doing this until they start noticing problems with leaks or other damage caused by the winter season's harsh conditions, but it's important to know when it might be time to replace your roof before you get into a situation where you need emergency help! Here are some reasons why it is time to replace your roof this spring.

The Roof Has Outlived Its Lifespan

If you've had the same roof on your home for over twenty years, it might be time to think about replacing it. Most roofs these days are expected to last twenty years at the very most, but if yours has lasted this long without showing any signs of damage, it may still be in decent condition. Of course, just because a roof is still in good condition doesn't mean that you can continue to neglect it. Eventually, you will need to get the roof replaced.

You Are Experiencing Frequent Leaks or Other Damage

If you've noticed any signs of problems with your roof, such as leaks during rainstorms, serious damage caused by falling tree branches, or even the appearance of mold or mildew, then you should definitely consider replacing it. It is possible that you can institute roofing repair, but this won't always hold true - especially if the damage has been caused by weather. You shouldn't wait to schedule a replacement until it's too late because having a professional come out to fix the problem can be significantly more expensive than getting a new roof installed.

If a Roof Inspection Finds Repairs Insufficient

One of the best ways to determine if it is time for a roof replacement or just a quick repair is through an inspection by an experienced third party. Your insurance company may also recommend that you get your roof inspected to determine whether or not it needs to be fully replaced, and these inspectors can often give you options for what they think would be the best choice for your specific roof. If you are unsure whether an inspection is right for you or want to ensure that the inspector you choose is qualified, then it's time to call a local roofing company.

In conclusion, it is never a good idea to ignore any problems with your roof. As soon as you notice something wrong, you should schedule an appointment with a reputable company to find out if the problem can be fixed or if the roof needs to be replaced.