It’s sometimes better to buy an older home in a great neighborhood. You can always make improvements to your home over the years! Great neighborhoods with A+ school districts will help your home retain and even increase in value. Make sure to look at crime statistics and the walkability of a neighborhood when considering a home!
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
We are thankful for our clients! Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving from our team at Pacific Home Brokers.
Here’s a tip when looking at homes: Ensure you make time for breaks when you’re going through the home buying roller coaster. Try not to get emotionally invested in a home that you don’t own yet! Keep the faith that you will find the right home for you when the time is right.
We’ll lighten the load for you and make the process as stress free as possible.
Keep calm and let us find you your dream home.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Home selling is part art, part science, part marketing, and part negotiation.
We’ll mix the right colors and ingredients and prepare them for the negotiation to make sure you get the right price.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Most buyers need to finance their home purchase, and a consultation with a mortgage lender is a crucial step in the process.
Find out how much you can afford before you begin your home search.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Look beyond paint and light-fixtures. These are cosmetic things that can easily be changed.
Besides the purchase price, think of additional costs: insurance, homeowner association fees and real estate taxes.
Budget for closing costs!
Consider the location – Spend time getting to know the area. Research the local school districts, even if you don’t have kids, school districts will influence the value of your home.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing, and negotiating, don’t get stuck in the property labyrinth.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Start saving early! As a first-time home buyer, we recommend you save as much as possible. You will need enough for a 3% down payment and funds for moving into your new home. Learn how to manage your cash flows now to buy the home of your dreams in the future.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
It is a possibility to opt for lower down payments. However, choosing low down payments means less equity, higher monthly payments, and more interest over the life of the loan.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Buying your first house should not be a chore. Our Pacific Home Brokers™ agents are knowledgeable about areas you’re interested in buying, whether it’s within your community or thousands of miles away. Our experts can offer you valuable consultation to help you choose and close your first home with ease.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Our Pacific Home Brokers agents are your go-to professionals for finding a home that matches your needs and budgetary requirements. Our agents will attend viewings, educate you about the priorities of being a homeowner, and submit an offer on your behalf.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Millions of people still find themselves confronting financial hardship and uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For those finding it challenging to keep up with timely rental payments, resources and relief options are available including financial counseling, help communicating with landlords, state and local tenant protections, and even emergency rental assistance.
In addition to resources for renters, property owners with a building financed by Fannie Mae may be eligible for forbearance, which temporarily suspends or reduces their mortgage payment until the hardship is over. By taking advantage of this option, the property owner agrees to provide payment flexibility to their renters who may be experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19.
The multifamily COVID-19 forbearance program requires property owners with a forbearance plan related to the pandemic to suspend all evictions for renters unable to pay rent during the forbearance period. A property owner participating in the program also must allow tenants flexibility to repay back rent over time and not in a lump sum; and not charge late fees or penalties for non-payment of rent.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Historically, many home buyers were encouraged to wait until they had 20% saved before they put a down payment on a home but those days are behind us. Here at Pacific Home Brokers, we can help you begin your home buying journey with as little as 3% down.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
It’s easy to get caught up in the lot or home size when viewing a property, but don’t overlook these 3 things!
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
See a home you like but you’re not sure where to start? Here’s a short guide to walk you through the home buying process!
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
With everyone and their brother buying a house, you may be wondering if you’re missing out on the action. But don’t let FOMO let you make a choice that may not be right for you.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Consider your financial goals, future plans, and how much you spend before purchasing a home!
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – There’s nothing quite like owning a home. There’s the pride of achieving a financial goal. There’s the comfort of having a sanctuary and space of your own in which to build a lifetime of memories.
Occasionally, as many homeowners can attest to, there’s also the element of surprise when things suddenly break, such as appliances, the furnace or water heater, and need to be fixed or replaced. Water damage is the most common and unwanted surprise for homeowners. According to Mercury Insurance, water related damages accounted for more than 45% of its homeowners insurance claims in 2020, resulting in $160 million in property damage.
1. The Bathroom:
Periodically check the pipes underneath the bathroom sink for cracks or leaks. A leaky pipe can be a sign of a larger issue that might eventually cause your pipes to burst, like high water pressure or corrosion. Regardless of the cause, consult with a professional to have them assess and fix it.
The seal created by the caulk around your sink, tub and shower helps prevent water from seeping into spaces where it doesn’t belong, but it won’t last forever. Ensure the caulk isn’t worn or cracked, and apply a new layer if needed.
If water leaks from the base of your toilet, or it wobbles when you sit, it’s time to replace the wax ring. Wax rings help form a watertight seal between the bottom of a toilet and the sewer pipe. The ring usually lasts the life of the toilet, but it’s possible for it to dry out and fail so pay attention to malfunction signs.
2. The Kitchen:
Just like in the bathroom, the pipes beneath the kitchen sink need to be checked regularly for leaks and cracks.
Kitchen appliances with hoses that connect to your water supply – refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers, and dishwashers – are another potential source for leaks. Rubber hoses can wear out, blister or crack, and will need to be replaced over time. Consider replacing this type of hose with a steel-braided version as these are less likely to fail.
Your washing machine probably isn’t in your kitchen, but be sure to inspect its hose as well. The hose connection can loosen during wash cycle vibrations, so check to ensure it’s tight.
3. The home’s exterior and roof:
Be sure to keep rain gutters and downspouts free of debris to prevent clogs, and position downspouts to direct water away from the house.
Holes, cracks and gaps can be entry points for unwelcome water, which can cause rot or structural damage. Walk the perimeter of your home to look for imperfections in its facade. Inspect the condition of the weather stripping on your windows and doors to ensure they are properly sealed to keep out the elements. Also, look for damaged, missing or loose roof shingles, which can be seen from proper vantage points on the ground.
If you note any damage to your home’s exterior walls or your roof, consult with a professional to determine next steps to fix the spots where water can potentially enter your home.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Over the last year, life has been synonymous with ongoing changes, and chances are your home has had to adapt to these changes too. Your kitchen table might now be your office, the living room now serves as a classroom and your kitchen island is now a space for virtual social hours with friends. Are you longing for more functional and flexible spaces that work for your evolving needs? You’re not alone.
While some people are remodeling their homes to accommodate the new normal, others are selling and taking advantage of historically low interest rates in order to build their own home to perfectly fit their needs. No matter which category you fall into here are some top trends in home design so you can elevate your home to prioritize agility, functionality, comfort and style.
Design rooms for dual purpose
Gone are the days of single purpose, defined spaces like “living,” “dining” or “bed” rooms. With the need for home offices and virtual learning spaces, families need more room to complete the tasks within their homes. But imagine the functionality your home would have if creative solutions allowed one room to flex for multiple purposes, embracing the practical needs of your home today with flexibility for tomorrow.
Designer tips:
· Carve out space in larger-than-necessary rooms for different purposes. For instance, an open area in the owner suite or extra walk-in closet makes room for a nursery. Or the seating area in a home office may better serve as a home gym.
· Clean out the hall linen closet and add a small desk with playful artwork to serve as a child’s learning space. It will be less distracting than a playroom or bedroom and creates a space all their own.
· Add a built-in or console for office organization in a dining room or clean out old and unused dishware from the china cabinet to make room for office and school supplies. Both solutions offer a beautiful focal point in the home while being utilized for more practical everyday needs.
Usher in light in the new year
Rooms are often not designed with proper lighting. Objective layers of lighting and correct temperatures of that lighting play a key role in not only how your space looks and feels, but also how it functions. A single layer of lighting often leads a room to be too dark or one dimensional, while many layers of different temperatures can make a room feel “off.”
Designer tips:
· Ensure each room has the four layers of fundamental lights as needed. Each room should have a main source of lighting like recessed can lights. Then add task lighting like a reading lamp or under cabinet lighting in the kitchen. Accent lighting such as small track lighting should be used to illuminate a focal point. And finally, add a decorative light such as a chandelier or sconce to complete the room.
· First, determine if you want your room to feel warm or cool, and then ensure those layers of light all work towards the same color temperature. When you purchase lightbulbs, the packaging will include this little detail.
Create a space for what’s most important
Functional spaces are made for the way you live while offering opportunities for connection and trends are following suit. According to the Design Studios for Ashton Woods, homeowners are adopting a “new traditional” style that is both comfortable and contemporary, making way for natural spaces where memories can be made. This means family rooms are designed with group gatherings in mind with furniture and flow that encourages conversation and interactions.
Designer tip: Make sure there is a room or at least a “zone” in your home that is absent of technology. Turn off and cover the TV to create more room for those games, puzzles and good conversation without distractions. Think back to that “traditional” formal living room and design spaces intended for connection and visiting with friends that are a more approachable and comfortable look for everyday living.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Purchasing a home is arguably one of the biggest financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. As you start your hunt, don’t forget there will be other costs associated with your purchase then the price of the home. Here are 5 fees to keep in mind as you begin to budget.
Home inspection. This is a crucial step in the home buying process. The findings that come from the inspection can help you negotiate price and repairs. Generally, you can expect to pay between $300 to $500 depending on the home and the location.
Title services. Title services encompass the transfer of the title from the seller and a thorough search of the property’s records to ensure to no one will pop up with a claim to the property. Additionally, you may need to buy title insurance which will protect the lender or your investment in the home.
Appraisal fee. Before getting a loan, you will likely be required to get an appraisal of the home to determine its estimated value. This will be conducted by a third-party company and the cost can land anywhere between $300 and $1,000, depending on the size of the home.
HOA fees. Many communities have a homeowners’ association that enforces monthly fees. This money is used for general maintenance and updates to areas like pools, parks, and more. Typical HOA fees are around $200 per month.
Taxes. The taxes each buyer pays at the closing table differ, but it is not uncommon for it to be up to two months’ worth of county and city property taxes. Additionally, there may be taxes for the transfer of the home title.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Staging your home is all about putting the best foot forward for potential buyers. By highlighting its most desirable features, you can draw more interest for your home and leave a lasting impression that is sure to help you sell it more quickly. Here’s what you should keep in mind as you prepare for your next open house or viewing!
Help them visualize it as their own. Make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves making your house their home by removing personal memorabilia, knick-knacks, and photos. Instead replace them with simple décors, such as paintings, nature images, and plants.
Think sleek instead of comfy. Modern-day buyers are leaning toward modern, crisp, clean interiors over comfy, homey looks. When staging your home, keep a minimalist mindset, and incorporate bright colors and metal accents.
Deep clean the small spaces. It’s obvious to say you should clean your home before viewing, but don’t forget to cover your bases by deep cleaning the small spots. Take time to scrub porous areas like grout that may hold on to stains and baseboards where small pet hairs and dust love to cling.
Spruce up your landscaping. The first impression your home gives to potential buyers is its exterior. Ensure you have a freshly mowed lawn, neat hedges and shrubbery, bright flowers, and a clean driveway.
Set the mood. A home is so much more than just the way it looks, so you need to appeal to the other senses. Prior to having potential buyers over, set the mood by burning delicious smelling candles and selecting an upbeat, happy soundtrack to play in the background.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
You’ve found your dream home and now it’s time to cross all your T’s and dot all your I’s before it’s all your own. And one of the first items on your closing checklist the home appraisal. So, what exactly is that?
The home appraisal is essentially a value assessment of the home and property. It is conducted by a certified third party and is used to determine whether the home is priced appropriately.
During a home appraisal, the appraiser conducts a complete visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the home. He or she factors in a variety of things, including the home’s floor plan functionality, condition, location, school district, fixtures, lot size, and more. An upward adjustment is generally made if the home has a deck, a view, or a large yard. The appraiser will also compare the home to several similar homes that were sold within the last six months in the area.
The final report must include a street map showing the property and the ones’ compared, photographs of the interior and exterior, an explanation on how the square footage was calculated, market sales data, public land records, and more.
After it is complete, the lender uses the information found to ensure that the property is worth the amount they are investing. This is a safe-guard for the lender as the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. If the buyer defaults on the mortgage and goes into foreclosure, the lender generally sells the home to recover the money borrowed.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Outdated kitchen. Overrun backyard. Unusable basement space. If you have a home renovation project on the mind, the first thing you have to consider is how you are going to finance it. Here are the most common options to make your dreams become a reality.
Cash. Paying in cash is the most straightforward financing option, just save until you have enough money to cover the expenses. This will help eliminate spending outside your budget; however, it can also extend your timeline.
Mortgage Refinance. If you’ve been making payments on your home for a few years and your interest rate is higher than current market rates, you may be eligible for a mortgage refinance, reducing your payments and freeing up some money.
Cash-Out Refinance. You can tap into your home equity and borrow up to 80 percent of your home’s value to pay off your current mortgage plus take out more cash to cover the renovations. This option is encouraged only when you’re making improvements that will increase the value of your home, as it can add a lot of interest and fees.
Home Equity. Getting a home equity line of credit allows you to borrow money against the value of your home. You receive usually up to 80 percent of your home’s value, minus the amount of your loan.
Retirement Funds. Homeowners can consider pulling money from a 401K or IRA account, even though they aren’t specifically meant to cover a home renovation. This option might incur additional penalties or tax payments, but may be worth it when making improvements that will benefit them financially in the long run.
Before you start shopping for a home, make sure you know your budget.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Before you start shopping for a home, make sure you know your budget.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
When you put your home up for sale, one of the best ways to determine the asking price is to look at comparable sales. There’s rarely a perfect apples-to-apples comparison, so a pricing decision often relies on comparisons to several recent sales in the area. Here are five criteria to look for in a sales comparison.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
You’ve most likely heard the rule: Save for a 20-percent down payment before you buy a home. The logic behind saving 20 percent is solid, as it shows that you have the financial discipline and stability to save for a long-term goal. It also helps you get favorable rates from lenders.
But there can actually be financial benefits to putting down a small down payment—as low as 3.5 percent—rather than parting with so much cash up front, even if you have the money available.
THE DOWNSIDE
The downsides of a small down payment are pretty well known. You’ll have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance for years, and the lower your down payment, the more you’ll pay. You’ll also be offered a lesser loan amount than borrowers who have a 20-percent down payment, which will eliminate some homes from your search.
THE UPSIDE
The national average for home appreciation is about five percent. The appreciation is independent from your home payment, so whether you put down 20 percent or 3.5 percent, the increase in equity is the same. If you’re looking at your home as an investment, putting down a smaller amount can lead to a higher return on investment, while also leaving more of your savings free for home repairs, upgrades, or other investment opportunities.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Natural disasters cost Americans $91 billion in damages in 2018, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
With parts of California in the midst of peak wildfire and flooding seasons, experts emphasize the importance of safeguarding key assets, especially those irreplaceable personal and financial documents.
Safeguard your irreplaceable belongings. Whether you’re waiting out a storm or must quickly vacate your home, your most important papers, records, photos, valuables and heirlooms will be more secure when stored in a fire- and water-protected safe, such as the durable SentrySafe Combination Fire/Water Safe or portable SentrySafe Fire/Water Chest.
Maintain digital copies. Plan ahead for contingencies by storing copies of your most essential documents safely in the cloud, as well as portable flash drives. Free apps for Android and iOS phones make it easy to scan documents for that purpose.
Consider moving expensive artwork, antiques, wine, cars and/or other possessions to a temperature-controlled, generator-protected storage facility built for that purpose.
Secure your yard and home. Make sure your trees are properly trimmed and ensure your yard is clear of lawn furniture, landscaping equipment and other loose items. Strong winds can also open doors to storage areas and sheds if not properly locked.
Close interior doors. Taking that step may preserve your roof in high winds, since it compartmentalizes the pressure inside the home into smaller areas, according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.
Prepare for insurance claims. Inventory and photograph your belongings as they’re purchased, attaching receipts and including appraisals when applicable.
Establish a lock box. You never know when you could be trapped inside your home and/or need someone else to check on it during a disaster.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
When you’re getting ready to list your home, it’s of the upmost importance to ensure you are showing it in the best light. Taking time to highlight its strengths and fix up some of its possible weaknesses can make a big difference in how fast it sells. Here are our top five recommended repairs to make before selling your home.
Repaint walls.
Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce it up, and generally, it can be a do-it-yourself project. Make sure cover any walls with scratches and chips and consider updating any accent walls with a more neutral coat.
Repair floors.
Hardwood floors are a very desirable feature in a home, so you want to ensure they look their best by fixing scratches or dull areas. If your carpet is worn or stained, consider replacing them. And don’t forget the tile in your kitchen or bathrooms. Re-grouting can go a long way in making dingy tile work look brand new!
Refresh the landscaping.
Show buyers your home is the full package by dressing up the outside as well as the in. Clean walkways and driveways, plant seasonal flowers and plants, trim hedges and trees, install outdoor décor pieces and fill in mulch and gravel.
Fix your fixtures.
Leaky faucet? Rusted drains? Loose drawer handle? Making these small fixes can make a big difference to potential buyers with detailed-orientated minds. Improve your kitchen. An outdated kitchen can be a real eyesore in a home. Updating cabinetry, repairing or replacing countertops, and installing new faucets and sinks may be worth the investment
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Our homes don’t always grow with us. What may have initially worked fine for a single person, a young couple’s starter home, or a family with a newborn can quickly become too small as families expand and multiple generations live under one roof.
Remodeling and adding to your home is one option for creating more space, but it can be costly, and the size of your property may be prohibitive. That’s when moving to a bigger home becomes the best solution.
WHERE DO YOU NEED MORE SPACE?
The first thought when upsizing your home is to simply consider square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms. But it’s important to take a more critical approach to how your space will actually be used. If you have younger children (or possibly more on the way), then focusing on bedrooms and bathrooms makes sense. But if your children are closer to heading off to college or starting their own families, it may be better to prioritize group spaces like the kitchen, dining room, living room, and outdoor space—it’ll pay off during the holidays or summer vacations, when everyone is coming to visit for big gatherings.
MOVING OUTWARD
If you need more space, but don’t necessarily want a more expensive home, you can probably get a lot more house for your money if you move a little further from a city center. While the walkability and short commutes of a dense neighborhood or condo are hard to leave beyond, your lifestyle—and preferences for hosting Thanksgiving, barbecues, and birthdays—might mean that a spacious home in the suburbs makes the most sense. It’s your best option for upsizing while avoiding a heftier price tag.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
For most of us, our bedroom is little more than a place to sleep and relax. However, just because it’s always been that way doesn’t mean that we have to settle for drab and dreary.
One trend that’s gaining steam these days is converting your current bedroom into a luxury suite (or something comparable). If you want to live like you’re renting a room at the Ritz, then you want to follow these tips.
Compartmentalize Your Activities
Making your bedroom more functional is going to make it more luxurious. Add a gorgeous desk for working and a TV area for entertainment, and you’ll be living it up in no time.
Make it Chic
Choose a color palette that is both luxurious and classy. Silver and gold can seem tacky, so choose muted shades that compliment each other.
Also, a brilliant and commanding headboard can instantly upgrade the look of your room without any other changes.
Light it Properly
Finally, make sure that you have the right light to show off your designs. If it’s too washed out or yellow, then it will look drab and run down. Switch to brilliant LEDs and see the difference.
Choose Your Accents Wisely
We already mentioned a headboard, but some elegant drapes can also make your room feel more royal. Being strategic with your furniture accessories is going to both keep you under budget and avoid doing too much with the space.
Are you ready to lux your bedroom? You’ll be impressed by the results, and the feeling of decadence will make you more confident in your surroundings.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Property Loans’ Loan Officer or Pacific Home Brokers’ Agent to learn more.
Refinancing your mortgage is something most homeowners consider at least once throughout the lifespan of their home loan. It allows you to pay off your previous loan by applying for a new one that has better financial advantages. While there are many good reasons to refinance, here are five common ones.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer or Agent to learn more.
As unfortunate as it can be when homeowners fall behind on mortgage payments and must face the possibility of losing their homes, short sales and foreclosures provide them options for moving on financially. The terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different, with varying timelines and financial impact on the homeowner. Here’s a brief overview.
A short sale comes into play when a homeowner needs to sell their home but the home is worth less than the remaining balance that they owe. The lender can allow the homeowner to sell the home for less than the amount owed, freeing the homeowner from the financial predicament.
On the buyer side, short sales typically take three to four months to complete and many of the closing and repair costs are shifted from the seller to the lender.
On the other hand, a foreclosure occurs when a homeowner can no longer make payments on their home so the bank begins the process of repossessing it. A foreclosure usually moves much faster than a short sale and is more financially damaging to the homeowner.
After foreclosure the bank can sell the home in a foreclosure auction. For buyers, foreclosures are riskier than short sales, because homes are often bought sight unseen, with no inspection or warranty.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
An evacuation plan is a necessity for every home, especially if you live in an area where fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, and other disasters are a possibility. Many homeowners create evacuation plans for their homes and practice them with their kids, but far fewer have considered one for their pets. Take these steps to add your pets to your evacuation plan.
Assign pet evacuation to an adult. Everyone should know how to act during an evacuation, and that includes assigning one parent or adult to the pets. This allows the other parent and the children to focus on their part of the evacuation plan, so there’s no confusion during a high-stress moment when time is of the essence.
Keep evacuation maps and pet carriers readily accessible. If you need to evacuate, you should know exactly where every important item is. If you pets require carriers, keep them in a place that you can access easily.
Practice your plan. Include your pets in your home evacuation drills. It’ll help you see how they will respond and make changes to your plan if necessary. Getting your dog out of a window may not be as simple as you think!
Be prepared in case you get separated from your pets. No matter how much you drill your evacuation plan, it’s possible that a dog or cat will run off while you’re focusing on keeping your family safe. A microchip or a GPS-compatible tag can help you find your pets once it’s safe to return to the area.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Negotiation is a subtle art in real estate, but skilled negotiators can usually find some common ground that satisfies all parties. On the other hand, using the wrong negotiation tactics can sink a deal pretty quickly. Here are some negotiation tactics buyers and real estate professionals should avoid:
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Now that the temperatures have warmed, families are emerging from weather-imposed hibernation to delight once again in outdoor living. For some homeowners, however, the spring season can be fraught with embarrassment as they covet their neighbor’s lush lawn and seek help from Mother Nature (and her helpers) to fix all that ails within their own backyards.
Let’s face it. We all want a beautiful carpet of green to create the backdrop for entertaining, playing and relaxing. However, what you may not realize is the benefits of a beautiful lawn go well beyond its aesthetics.
Environmental benefits
Well-maintained lawns support healthy community environments. For instance, grass captures dust, smoke particles and other pollutants to help keep air cleaner. Plus, grasses absorb carbon dioxide and break it down into oxygen and carbon.
Healthy lawns also protect important water resources. A thriving lawn can help absorb unhealthy runoff that would otherwise reach water sources used by communities. An average, healthy lawn can absorb more than 6,000 gallons of water from a single rainfall, according to the Journal of Environmental Quality.
Additionally, lawns are natural coolants. Lawns can be 31 degrees cooler than asphalt and 20 degrees cooler than bare soil. Just consider: If you don’t have to turn on the air conditioner, you save energy and reduce your electric bill.
Community benefits
Communities that house healthy lawns, parks and commercially landscaped spaces just look nicer and feel more welcoming. Properly managed green spaces also help minimize the growth of weeds that can cause allergies, making it difficult for residents to enjoy time outdoors. Additionally, studies show that public green spaces can reduce stress, lower health care costs and improve quality of life.
Noise reduction is another big benefit for communities with healthy landscapes, particularly important in urban settings. Studies show that lawns and landscapes can reduce noise levels by 20 to 30 percent over hard surfaces like concrete and pavement. More than just providing a quiet, calm space, healthy landscapes make communities safer, too. Neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and larger yards have reduced crime rates, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Take action
The benefits of a healthy lawn are limitless – environmentally, emotionally and financially. Take the first step in creating a beautiful – and healthy- lawn by consulting a lawn care professional. Find one near you using the National Association of Landscape Professionals’ directory at www.loveyourlandscape.org/find-a-pro.
Get a head start on smart lawn care with these fast tips from the experts at NALP:
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer or Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – When you think of your bathroom, what comes to mind? A place you’re in and out of quickly while getting ready for the day or winding down for the night? Your bathroom can be more than just a utilitarian space. Features like these cam also increase the desirability of your home.
By adding certain bathroom amenities, you can transform your bathroom into a calming oasis that serves as a retreat from everyday stressors. Consider these five ideas that provide a spa-inspired experience in the comfort of your own home:
1. Tantalizing tub features provide a peaceful paradise. Water has many therapeutic benefits, and with the right tub, you can enjoy any time you’d like. Relieve sore muscles and calm the mind with an air bath, a soothing bathtub option that uses thousands of tiny air bubbles to melt away the day. For instance, one product like the DXV Aqua Moment Drop-In Airbath with Waterfall provides a gentle shoulder massage that helps release tension, while the waterfall transports the mind to a peaceful paradise. Activate the chromatherapy to complete the ambiance; for example, choose purple to reduce anxiety or orange to boost energy.
2. Create coziness using heated elements. Warmth brings relaxation, so make sure your bathroom has all the features to keep you toasty. Consider adding heated elements underneath your flooring. Just imagine being able to adjust the temperature on a knob and warming the floor to your preferred level of comfort. A heated towel rack is a must-have and easy accessory to add. Flip the switch at the start of your shower or bath and by the time you get out, your towel will be warm as if you just pulled it out of the dryer.
3. Delight the senses with a distinctive shower experience. A shower can be much more than an opportunity to get clean. Modern shower heads offer an experience to delight the senses. For example, the Spectra eTouch shower head from American Standard allows you to choose from four distinct spray patterns with the simple tap of a finger on the wall-mounted remote. Select your spray pattern to jump-start your morning and another to relax at night after a busy day.
4. Enjoy a luxurious, clean feeling. It is important to pause and take time for yourself, you’ve earned it. Choose bathroom products designed to offer you superior cleansing and improve your well-being. You can add fixtures with self cleaning nozzles and toilets with heated seats.
5. Complete the experience with pampering accessories Add the extras you need to your bathroom to make it feel like a true spa retreat. Invest in a plush robe and slippers to make you feel relaxed. New loofahs and sponges, along with scented bath products, can make the experience extra calming and luxurious. Don’t forget to pick up some new, lavish towels that will wrap you in softness.After a long day at work, there’s nothing better for your body and mind than the ability to experience your own “five-star” spa treatment. Even better, you don’t even have to pack a bag or hop in the car now that you have a calming oasis right at home.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer or Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Segmental retaining wall (SRW) units are one of the most versatile landscaping tools in the homeowner’s and professional landscaper’s toolbox. Retaining wall units have evolved from just being used to retain soil, transition slopes and prevent erosion. Today’s SRWs can do all that plus serve as multipurpose building blocks for a variety of outdoor-living features, including stairs, columns, freestanding walls, tiered walls, curved walls, seating and more.
Creative designs
While SRWs still beautifully accomplish their original intent, professionals and homeowners alike can easily create hardscape features that make outdoor-living spaces more useful and enjoyable. “Our landscape designers are very inventive in their use of segmental retaining wall units, and our customers really appreciate all the features that can be created with SRWs,” says Scott Arnold, manager of Villa Landscapes in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Products such as the VERSA-LOK retaining wall system can be creatively adapted by homeowners and professionals to accommodate curves, corners, columns and tiers – without any special pieces. For example, one popular application is a retaining wall that employs a convex curve set into a small slope. Additional courses can be stacked against the lower courses of the wall to create a “couch” or seating area to surround a circular paver patio and fire pit installed at ground level.
Freestanding walls
Freestanding walls are common applications for retaining wall units. Sometimes called garden or seat walls, freestanding walls are designed to surround the perimeter of a patio and can serve as space for seating or potted plants. They also add a measure of privacy around an outdoor-living space, and when designed with inset columns, can be a support for fencing.
Tiered walls
Tiered walls are a common solution for grade changes and erosion control. The benefit of tiered walls is that they look great, and the space in between the walls can be used for a patio or for perennials, shrubs, vegetables or herbs. Tiered walls add visual depth and texture to a hardscape design and can be more aesthetically pleasing than a single wall. Stairs incorporated into a tiered wall design give safe access to a home on a slope or hill. A tiered design also creates a low-maintenance landscape, eliminating the need to mow a difficult slope.
Stepping up
Retaining wall units can serve as risers for steps. Stair treads can be finished with special precast stair tread units or bullnose (round-edged) paving stones. When installed in a contrasting shade or color, stair treads add interest to a hardscape design. Stairs created from retaining wall units can be placed within a tiered wall design, in a single wall or with wing walls on each side. Raised patios, built with a foundation created by SRWs, are another popular feature that is often used to replace high-maintenance decks.
Can-do columns
Columns created with SRWs are a versatile, beautiful and functional feature within a hardscape design. They can support a pergola, lighting or other landscape features such as statuary, and are used to finish off the ends of a freestanding or seat wall. They can also be installed at intervals within a wall design, and columns create an attractive way to frame and support fencing.
The use of SRWs is limited only by the imagination for outdoor-living features. With a variety of colors, textures and configurations, one system is the VERSA-LOK retaining wall. It can be used for landscape walls designed with curves, columns, corners and steps, and professionally engineered, soil-reinforced retaining walls. This system, enables homeowners and professionals to create multi-angle corners, curves, stairs, columns and freestanding walls with just one type of unit, and no voids to fill or special pieces to purchase.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – The spring home-buying season is just around the corner and that means people are busy making improvements to get their homes ready to sell. These days, home upgrades are increasingly focused on one key feature: connectivity. In 2019, buyers want smart homes they can easily control from anywhere. From smart HVAC and sprinkler systems to connected garage door openers, it’s all about creating convenience and comfort.
Security gets connected
Security systems are nothing new, but the technology used to arm those systems is changing rapidly. More and more home security companies now offer fully connected systems that allow users to protect and monitor their homes from any smart device. Whether it’s a live video feed, the ability to lock and unlock doors remotely or just checking that all sensors are working properly, integrated security systems offer peace of mind. Having the infrastructure in place can be a selling point for buyers who want to make sure their new home is as safe as possible, given they’ll only have to set up the monitoring subscription upon move-in.
Updated garages add value
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2019 Cost vs. Value survey, a garage door replacement is the number one home improvement project in terms of return on investment. But these days, more homeowners are taking it a step further and installing new technology to make the garage more user friendly. For example, the SilentMax Connect garage door opener from The Genie Company comes with Aladdin Connect technology built-in to improve convenience and functionality. Not only is the opener super quiet – ideal for attached garages – but the connectivity features allow you to check whether your garage door is open or closed, grant individual access with virtual keys, instantly know when someone is operating your garage door (authorized or not), and provide a log of when each opener was used – all from your phone or smart device. Thanks to this technology, you can open the garage door remotely for delivery people, a housekeeper or for your child coming home from school. Considering your garage is one of the most accessed points in your home, this functionality is a great security feature and proves that garages offer more than just storage space. With the right connectivity tools and features, they can provide convenience that will be attractive to future owners.
Save energy, increase comfort
As home improvement trends go, increased connectivity is rivaled only by the desire for more energy-efficient homes. Smart thermostats accomplish both these aims and can increase the value of your home in the process. Smart thermostats let you easily control the temperature in your home from any connected device. You can set a daily schedule for your heater, adjust the temperature in individual rooms or let the system program itself based on your usage history. For energy-conscious buyers, this kind of technology provides a way of living that’s as aspirational as it is attainable.
Lighting the way
Smart lighting has turned from a novelty to a practical tool as products have gotten more advanced. Programmable lighting allows you to schedule when your lights will come on, turn on and off lights remotely or change the lighting to improve aesthetics. With a smart lighting system, you’ll never have to get out of bed to turn the lights off downstairs, and you can always come home to a fully lit house, boosting your sense of security. With these kinds of applications, your home’s lighting can go from a ‘given’ to a must-have, attracting buyers like a moth to a flame.
New, smart products are hitting the market every day. For homeowners savvy enough to incorporate this new technology into their homes, they’ll not only be more connected, but they’ll likely see more offers rolling in when it comes time to sell.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – If your new home is among the one million or so being built in the U.S. this year, congratulations! You’ll have the chance to customize it to your dream home preferences.
One feature that should be at the top of your priority list is the best possible fire protection for yourself and your loved ones: home fire sprinklers. While choosing household systems may not be as fun as picking paint colors and carpeting, it’s even more important. And asking for fire sprinklers could literally save your life.
That’s because home fires today are hotter and faster than fires of the past. Homes with unprotected lightweight building material and flooring burn faster, failing quicker (often collapsing in a fire). Common synthetic furnishings and belongings burn hot and fast and produce toxic smoke. Larger, more open layouts enable faster flashover. That means they can become deadly to people and pets in as little as two minutes.
The tragic facts are that seven people die in U.S. home fires each day, while another 12,300 are injured. The residents aren’t the only ones in harm’s way; firefighters are constantly in danger of injury or death. Studies show they’re being diagnosed with cancer as a result of their occupation.
Home fire sprinklers are dependable. They not only save lives; they protect property and possessions reducing fire damage by as much as 81 percent. Most insurers offer sprinkler discounts that lower your homeowners’ premiums.
“New homeowners have a great opportunity to ensure their houses are optimized for fire protection,” notes Lorraine Carli, HFSC president and vice president of outreach and advocacy for the National Fire Protection Association. “Start with working smoke alarms on every level, and prepare and practice a home escape plan. Create a complete system of fire safety by asking for home fire sprinklers.
Here are the basics:
Your family’s fire safety is in your hands! Ask your builder for home fire sprinklers. The best time to install fire sprinklers is when the home is being built, while walls and ceilings are open and accessible.
Learn the facts about home fire sprinklers from the nonprofit Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, a non-commercial educational organization that offers free information and resources. Follow HFSC on Facebook and Twitter.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer or Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Smart home products made major strides in 2018. More people than ever now use connected devices in their homes, and smart home hubs are constantly adding new integration and capabilities. Research from Statista predicts that by the end of 2018, more than 45 million smart home devices will be installed in U.S. homes, fueling an exciting new phase for the smart home industry, offering consumers new and improved smart technologies and giving rise to a totally interconnected, easy-to-control environment termed the “smart home.”
This innovation looks to continue in the new year with increasingly intuitive products that make life more enjoyable and interconnected. Here are the new smart home products ready to change the way we live in the new year, coming out of the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
Laundry made easy
The calendar might have changed, but your laundry needs haven’t gone anywhere. Smart home technology is making the chore a little easier with such technology as the LG Ultimate Laundry Room suite of products which can be started, stopped or monitored from anywhere using LG’s SmartThinQ(R) app. Users will receive notifications when a cycle has finished, or they can download new cycles, check energy usage and quickly troubleshoot minor issues using Smart Diagnosis. For added convenience, these home solutions can also be controlled with simple voice commands using the Google Assistant.
Smarter home with smart displays
Laundry is just one example of how smart home technology is making life easier. By adding other connected appliances and devices, you can develop a true smart home ecosystem in which seamless integration produce valuable efficiency. One of the best ways to anchor your ecosystem is with a smart display. The advanced smart display builds on the capabilities of a Google Assistant speaker with the added convenience of a touchscreen display and delivers high-fidelity sound, precise vocal definition and accurate bass, despite its compact size.
Stay connected on-the-go
As innovation continues, smart home technology is branching outside of the home itself. With new products, you can receive notifications regarding your home from anywhere, making sure you never lose touch with the most important things in your life. With mobile connectivity, your life becomes easier no matter where you are.
Smart home technology is all about making our lives easier and more comfortable. Whether you’re just doing laundry, looking to power your whole home, or even taking that control on the road, new smart home products provide a level of convenience that’s changing the way we live.
Smart home technology is all about making our lives easier and more comfortable. Whether you’re just doing laundry, looking to power your whole home, or even taking that control on the road, new smart home products provide a level of convenience that’s changing the way we live.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer or Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – From healthy lifestyle changes to productive habits, there are plenty of New Year’s resolutions that can start your 2019 off on the right foot. Homeowners can extend those resolutions to include keeping the house in tiptop shape – and keeping out unwanted visitors.
Inspect your home
As you start the new year, it’s a good time to check if your home is fully sealed from more than just the elements. Even an opening as small as a dime is big enough for a mouse to squeeze through. Take a walk around your entire house exterior, looking for any cracks or holes, and be sure to seal any gaps you find.
Eliminate standing water
While a water feature makes for a perfect landscaping piece, be sure to be diligent about changing out water and reducing other sources of standing water. Refresh the water in bird baths, fountains and other water features at least once a week, and dump out any other unnecessary water on your property.
Be mindful when away from home
Unfortunately, places like hotel rooms can be bed bug hot spots, and these pests can be tough to guard against and easy to bring home. Be sure to do a thorough sweep of hotel rooms – along mattresses, furniture and headboards – checking for signs of an infestation such as blood spots or shed skins.
Keep firewood at a safe distance
Before you light those cozy winter fires, be sure you’re storing firewood piles away from your home. The wood could be an inviting home for termites and can provide an easy bridge to your home’s foundation if you don’t properly guard against these pests.
Call in the professionals
If you’re dealing with a pest problem too big to handle alone, know when it’s time to call in the professionals. For example, Terminix is a company that has trained technicians that can help you protect your home from winter pests, leaving you free to focus your sights on other goals. Our agent’s can help you prepare your home for sale and address any pest issues.
Our agent’s can help you prepare your home for sale and address any pest issues.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Social media can be a great way to showcase listings, build relationships, and connect with clients and potential clients. But to maximize its benefits, you need a solid social media strategy. You also need a social media safety plan, so your posts don’t land you in court.
Avoiding a real estate lawsuit related to social media starts by knowing the risks. Let’s look at three things you can do to avoid social media errors that could lead to legal issues.
With digital images, it’s easy to edit out unwanted visuals from pictures, but in most cases you shouldn’t.
In addition, make sure your words are always accurate. Just as with mistakes on MLS listings, you are responsible for identifying and correcting mistakes on social media posts and marketing as well. Avoiding statements like “perfect condition,” is also a wise practice, as those kinds of phrases can be easily disputed. A better choice is to give clear, accurate descriptions of the property, without vague labels that might be misunderstood or argued.
Since even old posts can get you into trouble, you should also go back and edit or correct information you know is wrong. Social media posts are often short and informal, which means it’s easy to get a little lax. Take time to get it right.
You want to share success stories, so you snap a photo of your clients in front of their home and post it to Facebook. Is that a problem? It depends. Do you have authorization to post photos of your clients on social media?
Make it a practice to get authorization to use client names and likenesses in photographs and videos. ALWAYS get authorization if the photos or videos include children. You must have permission to use the photos and videos in social media, on your website, and in any other marketing materials.
Additional information to convey in the release is that clients will not be compensated in any way for the use of images or other materials, and they can choose to revoke authorization in the future by stating their intent in writing, though they cannot undo any sharing done while the authorization was in place.
If you have clients who choose not to sign the authorization, make it very clear in the client’s file that authorization has not been given.
It’s so easy to grab pictures from another website to share on your blog or your social accounts. Or maybe you’re creating a virtual walk through, so you grab your favorite song off YouTube to use in the background. Both of these actions are problematic.
If you want music for a video or ad, look for music that you can license for use. There are a number of sites that feature free or low cost music for use in videos or podcasts.
If you want to use pictures, you have choices:
When posting pictures, leave any details from the photographer in the details about the photograph and give credit according to any use agreements. You don’t want to get into a situation where a client or image owner gets into a negative discussion on your very public page about the use of their materials. Such a situation creates a poor perception of your business, which can harm prospective relationships. It could also create a snowball effect with people digging through past posts to see what else you’ve shared that you didn’t have rights to.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
This article is a reprint originally published at https://www.cresinsurance.com/3-ways-avoid-real-estate-lawsuit-using-social-media/ . Copyright © held by CRES Insurance Services.
(BPT) – The holidays, the big game, New Year’s and everything in between: At this time of year there are plenty of reasons to invite family and friends to your home to entertain. In addition, there are also plenty of times, particularly on cold winter nights, when you just want to have a place you can go to get cozy, play a video game or watch a movie in peace.
Either can be an appealing option, but do you have an entertaining space that fits the bill? One where you want to spend your free time?
If the thought of your entertaining space has you sadly shaking your head no, the good news is there’s no reason you have to settle for a less-than-ideal solution. Like the events you use it for, your space can change as needed. To help you make the most of your space for all of the group and individual events you have planned, follow these tips.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
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(BPT) – The gift-giving season is upon us once again! Whether you’re buying your loved ones a new pet, some fancy jewelry or the latest mobile phone for the holidays, one thing is for sure, these gifts come with costs and complications that can add headaches in the long run. For instance, new pets will inevitably need visits to the vet, electronic devices are often accidentally damaged, and valuables such as jewelry, art or cameras can get stolen or misplaced frequently. Here in California, the threat of fire and loss of valuables also exists. Take the time to protect what you value in your home.
This holiday season, invest in pet insurance, device insurance and valuable personal property insurance, so that the “little” things in life do not turn into big problems when things don’t go quite as planned. Here are a few reasons why you should consider purchasing insurance this holiday season:
1. Pet insurance: Coverage is flexible and nondiscriminatory.
A major bonus of pet insurance is the flexibility associated with it. For example, unlike health insurance policies for humans that often require you to use a specific group of providers, pet insurance policies allow you to choose the veterinarian you prefer. Likewise, pet insurance does not favor certain ages of pets. You can choose to begin insuring your pet at any time, whether that is at the time of adoption/purchase or many years later when your pet reaches maturity. Perhaps most compelling is the fact that many pet insurance policies reimburse owners at least 3/4 of costs after deductibles. This is a significant chunk of change, especially when a seemingly small procedure, such as having a foreign object removed from a pet’s stomach, can cost nearly $800.
2. Device insurance: Accidental electronic device damage is all too common.
Approximately one-third of all users damage their cell phone within the first year of owning it, and as we all know, repairing or replacing these devices can be quite pricey. While a phone warranty typically does not cover loss or theft, many insurance providers offer protection plans that do and save you money to boot such as USAA who has partnered with ProtectCELL to offer a smartphone protection plan.
3. Valuable personal property insurance: Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance do not always cover valuables.
Many homeowner’s coverage policies have a certain limit for valuable items categories. For example, a typical homeowner’s policy may have a limit of $1,500 in coverage for jewelry. A valuable personal property policy provides coverage for higher-ticket items such as jewelry, silverware, fine art, stamps and coins, instruments, etc. that may not be adequately accounted for in other property policies. This type of policy also provides coverage for damage or loss, which is a major distinction from a homeowner’s or renter’s policy.
It is the smart and financially savvy decision to protect your purchases for loved ones this holiday season, especially when it comes to meaningful and valuable gifts such as pets, electronic devices and personal property, such as jewelry or art. After you purchase your new home, protect what you place in your home.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
We appreciate your business and hope all of you are enjoying your family this year at home!
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent this Holiday Season!
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(BPT) – Thinking of adding a deck? How about replacing the tired, worn siding on your house? Now that the weather is colder, it’s the perfect time to curl up with a hot beverage and start planning your 2019 home projects so you can nail the budget and settle on the look you’re after.
Think “cool neutrals” for the color story
When someone suggests a neutral tone for your exterior, do you think boring beige and tepid taupe? When it comes to vinyl siding, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover there’s a broad range of color and style choices to meet your taste and design preferences, including soft grays, bolder mid-tone blues and warm earth-toned terra cottas.
Bring the inside out
If you’ve decided this year is the year to add a deck or a patio, don’t settle for an uninspired open-air platform. Today’s designers are remaking the deck concept altogether by bringing traditionally “indoor” amenities outside. Rugs, arbors and high-design furniture will turn your deck into an outdoor living room. By adding a fire pit, portable furnace or heater, you and your family can spend time on the deck year-round. For a finishing touch, a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door not only brings in more sunlight and natural views, it creates a seamless transition between inside and outside.
But a great deck starts with high-quality materials, because the last thing you want is to spend excessive time and money on routine maintenance. Instead of using natural wood, opt for a premium composite decking, such as Zuri Premium Decking at zuri.royalbuildingproducts.com, that combines the natural beauty of exotic hardwood with the unsurpassed and exceptionally low-maintenance requirements of composite materials. If you’re interested in learning more, visit.
Make relaxation a top priority
Home is where the heart is, right? So it makes perfect sense to make it into a space where self-care is a priority. That’s why wellness and mindfulness have become huge influences in interior and exterior spaces. To turn your backyard into a retreat space, consider amenities like water features, zen gardens or even a shaded reading nook.
Reframe the possibilities of your shed
Garages and sheds can be more than a storage space for your lawnmower and tools. These four walls hold many other possibilities, and homeowners have come up with creative, free-time-oriented uses for these simple backyard structures. The options are only limited by your imagination: backyard bar, outdoor shower, or the classic she-shed or man cave. You can even make it into a home office for those telecommuting days. To dress up a plain shed, add siding with complementary trim, windows and flower boxes, finished with a sleek glass door.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Few sights make homeowners more furious than an attractive landscape destroyed virtually overnight by hungry deer. Rose bushes and ornamentals? Nipped off every bud. Expensive shrubs? Browsed within an inch of their lives. Trees? Damaged, disfigured and sometimes dead.
Deer – and their wilder relatives, moose and elk – usually leave a path of destruction in their wake, and even winter can’t calm the carnage. In fact, as cold weather descends, deer shift their sights to your most expensive and difficult-to-replace trees, evergreens and shrubbery.
However, you can strike a blow against deer’s voracious appetites by maintaining a year-round program of defense such as Bobbex Deer Repellent foliar spray. The product is an environmentally friendly, nontoxic and long-lasting deer deterrent that’s safe for people, pets, wildlife and aquatic life. Ingredients include putrescent eggs, fishmeal, fish oil, garlic and other natural ingredients – all materials that offend a deer’s sensitive sense of smell and taste. Additional ingredients such as urea and Epsom contain natural fertilizer components which are beneficial for all plantings.
The product mimics predator scents, which deer have an aversion to, and is classified a fear repellent, but it also tastes terrible to deer, adding another layer of protection for plants. Because it contains effective sticking agents, the repellent won’t wash off even in harsh winter weather. And it’s been 3rd party tested against 10 other like-repellents and is rated #1 for protection against deer browse.
Fall
Fall is a particularly active time for deer as the mating season begins, and bucks and does seek each other out. In addition, bucks begin to repeatedly scrape their antlers against trees to remove summer’s “velvet” growth from their antlers. They can kill a tree quickly with this repetitive motion, even girdling a trunk in a single night. Keep destructive deer away from your prized plantings by regularly spraying deterrent on deciduous trees, evergreens, shrubbery and perennials throughout the fall.
Winter
Although you might imagine winter brings a break from deer destruction, you would be dead wrong – and expensively so. When some food sources die off and deep snow covers preferred food, deer reach up, often nibbling up to a half-bushel worth of twigs or other tree material per day. This can quickly deform or even kill landscape plantings.
Even though we’re approaching winter weather’s doorstep, you’ll need to factor spring and summer into your year-round application process so you don’t interrupt protection.
Spring
Since food is not as readily available for deer in the winter, their appetites are strong in spring.
Tender shoots of new, green growth entice bucks, does and fawns, all ravenous after the ravages of winter. Because deer will return to areas where they found tempting fodder again and again, keep them on the move by applying the deterrent on all stem, flower, leaf and bud growth in your yard and garden. During this peak growing season, spray repellent about every two weeks or when one to two inches of new growth appears.
Summer
Unlike during the winter, it’s atypical for deer to start gnawing the bark off trees during the summer months, since available, natural food choices are easier to find. Although deer will find food in fields and forests, your yard is not out of the woods. When hot, dry summertime weather becomes the norm and natural vegetation turns brown and dies off, deer will venture out of the woods and into your yard, in search of the green, healthy plants that you’ve watered and kept thriving. Once deer find your foliage and flowers, they’ll keep coming back unless you continue to protect your plants and teach them to stay away.
Persuading hungry deer that your yard and garden is not their personal produce bar takes vigilance. With a year-round deterrent spray program, deer will soon learn to take their hungry habits elsewhere.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – When additive manufacturing technology – better known as 3D printing – was first invented more than 30 years ago it was intended to make the product design and manufacturing process more efficient. At that time, 3D printing was used primarily as a way to create prototypes to validate and perfect product design, but the inventor, Chuck Hull, had no idea how it would change the way we live.
Today, 3D printing has evolved beyond product prototypes only used by industrial designers and engineers. Manufacturers all over the world now rely on additive manufacturing to produce final parts and products that are purchased and experienced by mainstream consumers across the marketplace. This includes parts in automobiles and appliances, medical and dental implants, custom prosthetic limbs and food, and has also become an important component in interior design, reinventing what you think is possible.
One example is when Kallista, a division of Kohler, sought to execute its new Grid Sink Faucet design, the company quickly realized the idea could not be executed via traditional manufacturing methods. Rather than sacrifice the design, the team turned to 3D printing. The result was a faucet that delivers on its design without compromising functionality.
Additional benefits of 3D printing
While 3D printing solutions are inspiring designers everywhere, giving them the opportunity to expand their creativity, 3D printing also offers several other benefits to companies and consumers, including:
* A single source of efficiency and strength. “Some assembly required” is a catchphrase synonymous with traditional manufacturing and it is that assembly that also exposes the end product to errors in the pieces, poor construction and added time to fabricate the object. However, because 3D printed objects are made in one solid piece, they solve many of these issues. They are structurally stronger, free of connection weaknesses and expertly assembled to specifications.
* Environmental consciousness. While traditional manufacturing takes raw materials and trims them down to the finished product, 3D printing builds the desired piece by adding material as the process goes along. This means it essentially utilizes only the amount of material necessary to create the object. The result is less waste and a reduced environmental impact.
* Faster results, favorable returns. The 3D printing process offers a new level of accuracy and rapid part production with the ability to reduce – and in many cases, eliminate – material waste, which also favorably impacts a project’s overall bottom line.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Creating an outdoor living space will give you an extra “room” to enjoy in all types of weather, even as the temperatures drop. You can start small with an inexpensive patio set and charcoal grill on a new deck, go all out with a fully installed kitchen, fireplace and living room, or something in between. It depends on your budget and how you plan to use the space.
Here are some ideas for must-have elements in your perfect outdoor living space that will allow you to enjoy your back yard in style with family and friends all year long.
* Deck
It’s the foundation of your outdoor space. Using real wood for your deck is the key to creating a natural, beautiful outdoor living space. One great option is Western Red Cedar. It’s resistant to rot, decay and insects so it lasts a long time with minimum maintenance. It’s also durable, yet surprisingly lightweight, which is one of the reasons DIYers and building professionals find it so easy to work with. It’s also a green choice. Woods such as cedar leave the smallest carbon footprint compared to any other building material.
* Fire
There’s nothing cozier on a crisp night than curling up in front of the fire. Adding a fire element to your outdoor room creates the same sort of ambiance. Imagine gazing up at the sky on a dark, starry night while sitting in front of the fire and you’ve got the idea. You’ll find a wide variety to choose from, including decorative metal fire pits or bowls; chimeneas, which are earthenware or stone outdoor fireplaces; or full-blown, permanent fireplaces like you might find inside the house. Whatever you choose, the crackling fire will draw people and create a focal point for conversation and reflection. Added bonus: It will provide a heat source for chilly nights.
* Outdoor kitchen
You can go big, creating a second full kitchen alfresco with a high-end gas grill, a wood-burning pizza oven, a fridge, a sink, storage for dishes and utensils, and a countertop for prep, or you can go small, with a simple grill. Either way, it’s essential to be able to cook outside so you won’t be stuck in your home’s kitchen preparing dinner while your family and friends chat on the deck.
* Furniture
A patio table and comfortable chairs are a must, as are some Adirondack or other sturdy, comfy chairs positioned around your fire source. But beyond that, think about how you’ll use the space. Does a chaise or two for lounging with a book and a cold beverage make sense? What about an outdoor sofa and chairs to create more of a living room-type feel? Whatever you choose, comfort, durability in all types of weather, and the size (not too big or too small) are prime considerations.
* Shelter
In addition to the standard umbrella for your patio table, creating shelter for your outdoor space lets you enjoy it in all types of weather. The sky is the limit on your choices: a simple wood and fabric canopy to shade your seating area, a more structured gazebo complete with mosquito netting, a decorative wooden pergola, or an outdoor sunroom or solarium that attaches to your home’s exterior wall. Get some ideas for great DIY projects, be it a pergola, a Tiki bar, a cover to protect your grill (and the grillmaster) from the elements, or for less experienced DIYers, a dining table, benches and chairs, by downloading free DIY project plans at http://www.realcedar.com.
* Landscaping
The final touch is the yard beyond your deck. Extend your outdoor space with a patio, create a walking path with stone pavers, or add shrubs, plants and flowers that will cycle and change with the seasons, giving your space a fresh look as the months go by.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Winter will be here before you know it. The season has a way of sneaking up on you and before you realize you’re not ready, the first chilling breezes have already arrived.
Begin with winterizing your home now to ensure you’re prepared for the season. Apply the following tips and your home will be winter ready in no time.
* Prime your plumbing. If you live in an area where freezing pipes are a threat, this is one area you’ll want to correct immediately. A frozen pipe that bursts can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on damage. Shut off any water lines tied to outdoor spigots and your sprinkler system if you have one. Indoor pipes running along the exterior walls of your home are also potential freezing risks, so cover them with a towel or wrap to insulate them through the season.
* Be sure your heating system is ready for the season. The importance of your home’s heating system during the winter cannot be understated. If it isn’t up to the test, replace it now before winter arrives. A good unit is The York(R) Affinity(TM) Series YZT two-stage heat pump which offers a two-stage compressor to deliver higher energy efficiency and quieter operation. A smart home integration is easy with the Touch-Screen Thermostat. Control your home’s temperature by voice command or by using your smartphone when you’re away from home. Program auto-alerts to stay aware of necessary maintenance and replace the filter each month to ensure your home heating system performs at its best all season long.
* Have your home audited. A home energy audit can help you make sure your home will be energy efficient and comfortable throughout the winter. Your energy audit will show you where energy is being wasted and provide suggestions on how to correct them. You may discover opportunities to add insulation in drafty areas or replace appliances that are no longer operating efficiently.
* Seal the leaks. Even the smallest draft could end up costing you big time over the course of a winter and repairing this problem is easy. Inspect each of your home’s windows – replace the broken ones – and use caulk to seal any cracks you find around the window frames. You can also apply weather stripping where appropriate and when winter begins, don’t be afraid to keep the curtains closed to block cold air from coming into your home through the glass.
* Protect yourself from CO concerns. Colder temperatures cause many of us to seek alternative heating sources, but this can often be dangerous. Never use a generator, camp stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning device inside your home or garage. These devices, combined with closed windows, can result in carbon monoxide poisoning. If your home does not have a carbon monoxide detector, buy one immediately and if you do have a detector, make sure to test and replace the batteries regularly. A C02 detector is a vital component in keeping those in your home safe throughout the winter and beyond.
Don’t let winter freeze you out
Winter’s frigid temperatures haven’t struck yet, but the season will be here before you know it. Apply the tips above in your home today and you’ll stay nice and warm inside no matter what the outside weather conditions may bring.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Buying a home is an exciting process, but for many people it can also seem out of reach. While many renters would like to buy, there are several factors that may lead potential homebuyers to believe they may not be ready. These include credit score requirements, income and debt levels, and the common myth that a 20 percent down payment is needed. Here is some good news: Qualifying for a mortgage may not be so far out of reach.
While it is true that borrowers with stronger credit profiles – FICO scores of 720 and higher, low debt-to-income (DTI) ratios, and cash reserves – generally receive better mortgage terms, there are products in the market that can enable access to affordable, prudently underwritten mortgage financing.
Down payment is routinely cited by prospective home buyers as the largest hurdle to home ownership, but low down payment mortgages are widely available in today’s market. These include conventional loans with private mortgage insurance (MI) and government-backed loans like those insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
Many borrowers incorrectly believe that they need a 20 percent down payment to buy a home, but with private MI a borrower can qualify for a conventional home loan with as little as 3 percent down. In addition to the competitive pricing of mortgages backed by private MI, private MI can be canceled when a borrower reaches 20 percent equity in his or her home. This added perk often makes private MI a more affordable option over other home loan programs, such as FHA backed home loans, which require mortgage insurance premiums for the vast majority of borrowers for the entire term of the mortgage, which is often 15 or 30 years.
For more than 60 years, more than 30 million homeowners have used private MI to successfully buy homes and build the long-term wealth associated with home equity. In 2017 alone, private MI helped more than one million borrowers nationwide purchase or refinance a mortgage. According to a study by U.S. Mortgage Insurers, 56 percent of those borrowers who received purchase loans were first-time home buyers and more than 40 percent had incomes below $75,000.
For decades, millions of homeowners and prospective home buyers have relied on private MI to help them affordably and responsibly buy a home. Based on median home prices, it can take an average of 20 years to save for a 20 percent down payment. And with home prices dramatically on the rise, this wait time will only increase. Luckily, private MI can help you get into the home of your dreams sooner.
When making home buying decisions, it is important to take a second look to make sure you are aware of all your options. More information can be found on lowdownpaymentfacts.org.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
| Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer to learn more. |
(BPT) – Changing residences can call for the coordination of a lot of details. It is especially true if you’re a do-it-yourselfer who’s renting a truck rather than hiring a moving company.
Though the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the average American changes homes 11.4 times in his lifetime, many of us never take time to think about the potential safety hazards involved. Usually we’re way more focused on the challenges of figuring out all the logistics, packing up our possessions in logical fashion and starting the psychological adjustment of having a new place of residence.
Still, it’s important to take a moment to think about best practices for the safety of you and your family as you plan your move. Consider taking the following steps toward a safe and organized moving process.
1. Assign roles. Organize your packing and loading crew so everyone knows his role. Your work will be much more efficient – and you won’t get in each other’s way – if your friends and family members are each assigned a task according to their physical capabilities. As a side note, you may wish to keep small children completely off-site so the adults can focus on the often-physical work at hand.
2. Choose a reputable rental company. Secure your moving truck from a reputable dealer, then follow its specific instructions for safely packing and driving the vehicle. Trusted longtime vendor Penske Truck Rental offers a clean, reliable, well-maintained vehicle every time, with a range of available packing and moving tools and the peace of mind that comes with 24-hour roadside assistance.
3. Optimize tools. Use dollies, hand trucks, harnesses and/or multiple people to lift boxes that weigh more than 50 pounds. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer you may take pride in being able to handle any chore yourself, but you need to remember you’ll be self-sufficient no longer if you sustain an injury from trying to be superhuman.
4. Lift correctly. When picking up anything even moderately heavy, avoid back injuries by keeping your back vertical and your chest forward. Draw the item as close to your body as possible while bending at the knees and lifting with your legs, avoiding bending horizontally as you straighten.
5. Be aware of obstacles. When moving items out of your house and into your vehicle, watch for items that could trip you or get in your way, such as low-hanging obstacles, ground protrusions or surfaces that are wet, slick or uneven. Wear close-fitting clothing that can’t be snagged and choose durable footwear that offers both support and traction.
The DIY moving process need not be difficult or risky as long as you plan ahead and take a few precautions.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
| Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Loan Officer to learn more. |
A home’s curb appeal leaves a powerful first impression. Yet, according to the recent poll conducted by Ply Gem Building Products, only half of homeowners say their home’s exterior reflects their personality. This is an especially surprising statistic since 81 percent of Americans say the exterior of a home shapes their view of the homeowner.
With countless material options and accents like shutters and trim, there are several ways to add color to your home. Replacing old siding with vinyl siding tends to be a popular approach because it can improve the look of an entire home exterior, while also being low maintenance and durable. Before replacing your home’s siding, you may be interested to learn what your color choices say about your personality. The following profiles will provide some insight and inspiration for making big decisions about your home exterior:
* Calm, cool, collected = Blue: More than half the population (55 percent) believes the color blue has the most positive impact on their mood, which explains why blue skies are synonymous with peace and happiness. Along these lines, blue siding coordinates easily with a variety of accent colors whether it be white and gray or red and orange.
* Safe, certain, dependable = Neutral: Neutrals are the norm when it comes to exterior color preferences. Fifty-three percent of Americans would choose neutral colors such as beige, white or gray for the exterior of their home. In fact, if you want the latest on-trend curb appeal, consider shades of gray, which have grown in popularity by about 5 percent over the past four years. Gray is very versatile – it can easily be mixed and matched with just about any accent color and trim selection.
* Brave, confident = Bold: If you want to stand out and make a statement, dramatic siding colors are the way to go. Fifty-five percent of Americans say homes with bold colors belong to people with bold personalities. Recent advances in vinyl siding technology, such as the SolarDefense reflective technology from Ply Gem Mastic, have made it possible to choose daring colors such as deep reds, greens and browns.
Colors are important, but don’t forget maintenance
While colors can send a message, that statement can be undermined by a lack of upkeep. Seventy-eight percent of Americans say the maintenance of a home also impacts their first impression of a homeowner. Consider low-maintenance products like vinyl siding, which come in endless color options, but do not require upkeep such as painting or staining.
Is it time to make a change?
Thirty-seven percent of homeowners say they did not get to choose the exterior siding on their home. If you’re part of that group, what better time than the present to update the look of your house (before the holiday season kicks in)? Doing so could also add significant value to your home. According to the latest cost versus value survey by Remodeling Magazine, upgrading to vinyl siding recoups 76 percent of the project cost on average.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – It’s easy to appreciate the sights and smells afforded by lawns and landscapes, but when it comes to your yard there is much more to consider besides pleasing aesthetics and aromas. Many would even be surprised to learn that the benefits of a lush lawn and stunning landscape design extend well beyond a yard’s perimeter.
That’s right, well-managed landscapes offer tremendous benefits for the community and environment. Here are just a few:
* Scrubs the air: Beautiful greenery, including grass, catch dust, smoke particles and other pollutants to make the air you breathe fresher and cleaner.
* Protects waterways: Well-maintained yards and lawns help prevent soil erosion and unwanted runoff into nearby lakes, streams and rivers.
* Adds oxygen: A 50-by-50-foot lawn produces enough oxygen to supply a family of four.
* Boosts home values: The yard is the first thing a potential buyer sees, and it sets the first impression. If you plan to sell your home in the next few years, investing in your landscaping now can pay dividends later. A recent study by the National Association of REALTORS and National Association of Landscape Professionals found that investing in landscape maintenance recovers 100 percent of the cost at the time of sale!
* Makes you feel good: Having a nice yard with lush turf and well-tended landscapes delivers some mood-enhancing properties as well. Looking at plants and trees, even through a window, has been found to lower stress and blood pressure, while walking among plants and trees improves attention and memory.
Ideas to enhance your yard’s natural benefits
Now that you know the benefits of your lawn and landscapes, you may be inspired to try some of these simple improvements to make it look and feel even better. Some of these can even save you time and effort, so you have more hours to spend outdoors.
* Mow properly: Raising the deck height of your lawn mower is one simple thing you can do right now to improve your green space. When mowing, the blade should remove no more than a 1/3 inch from the blade of grass.
* Mow at the right time: Professionals recommend to not mow right after it rains. Mowing wet grass will cause clumping and ruts. This also leaves the lawn more susceptible to certain diseases.
* Let the clippings drop: “Grass cycling” your clippings allows nitrogen and other nutrients to return to the soil. Even better, it eliminates the step of hauling around heavy bags of yard waste.
* Invest in smarter watering tools: An irrigation system saves time on watering chores, but one that uses smart technology and weather-based data will apply water only when your lawn and garden need it.
* Consider natural landscaping: The next time you choose flowers, shrubs or trees, opt for species native to your region. These plants have adapted to the climate, so they’re more resilient to your region’s weather patterns, and require less watering than exotic species.
With these tips, you have plenty to get started on creating a beautiful lawn and landscape that looks and feels even better. If you’re seeking fresh ideas to amp up your landscaping or want to maximize its full environmental and enjoyment benefits, consider turning to the expertise of a lawn care or landscape professional. You can find a professional to help you with your landscaping in your area at LoveYourLandscape.org. With help from a professional, you can have the outdoor oasis of your dreams.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent or Loan Officer to learn more.
Click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent or Loan Officer to learn more.
(BPT) – Home improvement projects are popular this time of year and you’ve certainly tackled your share of DIY to-dos in the past. But not this year. This year you realize it’s time to go big, to go bold, to set aside those traditional home improvement projects for another year and do something even bigger.
Yes, this year, it’s time to renovate.
Whether your plans include renovating one room, a floor or your entire home, there’s no denying that a renovation project greatly increases the scope of the work to be done – and the expense. And because of that, it’s incredibly important to have your entire plan laid out before you begin. After all, the last thing you want to do is renovate your latest renovation.
To be sure you’re ready for the renovation project of your dreams this season, apply the tips below.
* Finalize your goals. The largest projects are more successful when they are planned down to the finest details and that includes getting very specific about your goals. Don’t settle for a goal of simply improving your home. Decide if you’re trying to up the resale value, add more space, create a hobby area or finally build the bathroom you deserve. Any or all of these could qualify as improving your home, but when you get specific about your goal, you’ll better recognize what needs to be done to attain it.
* Determine if you need to update/replace core systems. Your air conditioning unit, water softener and furnace are all vital components in your home and it’s easy to take the work they do every day for granted. However, these systems eventually need replacement as well, and your home renovation could be the perfect time to tackle this task. For example, take your air conditioning unit, , and replace your old, inefficient unit with a new two-stage unit like the Luxaire Acclimate Air Conditioner. It uses a two-stage compressor to meet your comfort needs and its SilentDrive system ensures a peaceful, enjoyable experience.
* Set your budget. Many homeowners have no idea what a renovation project will cost and even if they do, unexpected expenses can appear very quickly. If you are working with a contractor, they should be able to give you a fairly accurate estimation of how much your project will cost. However, it’s still a good idea to determine what your absolute spending ceiling is for the project and not go above it. This means making sure you budget in some extra space below this mark to allot for unexpected expenses.
* Organize your calendar. Delays during a renovation project will cost you time and money, so it pays to eliminate them when possible. Do you plan to remain in your home during the project? Are there any seasonal plans – like a family vacation – that could interfere with the progress? Understand these potential hazards early and you can plan for ways to minimize them.
* Know what you can do and, more importantly, what you can’t. When you move from a home improvement project to a renovation, you’re also probably moving from DIY to hiring an expert. Tackle what you can yourself – including buying materials for the project, which will save you the contractor’s mark-up – but leave the things you don’t know how to do in the hands of the professionals. Doing so will make sure that you’re happier with the result and that you don’t have to pay someone to fix your mistakes.
Start your project today
No matter your motivation for starting a home renovation, it’s easy to be excited about the result. Take your time, plan your process using the tips above, and be ready for any hurdles that come your way, and that result will be all the more satisfying.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Are summer’s sizzling temperatures causing you to retreat from your favorite outdoor spaces? Garages, patios, sheds, gardens and other outdoor areas should be enjoyed throughout the year. Unfortunately, heat and humidity can quickly make being outside intolerable during the dog days of summer.
The good news is keeping outdoor spaces comfortable doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right tools and some thoughtful planning, you can stay cool and continue your favorite hobbies, no matter how high the temperatures rise. Whether it’s wrenching on a car, in the garage tackling a DIY project, tending to your patio container garden or simply kicking back on the deck, the following steps can help you stay cool and safe.
Step 1: Shade
Direct sun on decks and patios can make it nearly impossible to enjoy hot days. Strategically install shade features like umbrellas and awnings to add instant protection and ambiance. An alternative is vine-covered trellises that block sunlight and align well with the natural elements outdoors. For covered areas like garages and sheds, direct sunlight isn’t a concern, but those rays can raise the temperatures in those spaces fast. That’s why it’s important to take additional steps to cool the air within.
Step 2: Portable cooling
Fans alone simply circulate stagnant, hot air throughout outdoor living spaces. Instead consider an evaporative cooler. Portacool portable evaporative coolers drop temperatures through the naturally occurring process of evaporation using water and the surrounding air, without creating mist. Open backyard spaces, patios and garages can be more comfortably cool on the hottest days by rolling this cooler wherever it’s needed.
Step 3: Insulation
For covered spaces like garages and sheds, adding insulation can help regulate temperatures. Batt insulation is inexpensive and an easy weekend DIY project to install if drywall isn’t present. Add to walls and ceiling spaces where applicable and then cover with drywall. If you already have drywall, you can look into blown-in insulation options. By insulating these spaces, you’ll help keep sweltering heat out and cool air in for more enjoyable summer days.
Step 4: Color
Keep color in mind when evaluating outdoor spaces. Light colors reflect the sun and dark colors absorb it, causing temperatures to rise. For decks and patios, opt for rugs and furniture in light colors to stay cool and comfortable. For garages and sheds, consider the color of the exterior. If you find the afternoon sun beats mercilessly down upon it, consider painting the exterior a lighter shade of paint, and when it’s time to replace the roof, choose a new color in a lighter hue.
Summer heat doesn’t have to force you indoors. Enjoy favorite outdoor spaces with these simple steps to stay cool and comfortable.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – 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.
* 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 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.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
(BPT) – Whether it’s a baby or pet, a new addition to the family calls for new, unexpected responsibilities, and is bound to come with adjustments for every member of the family. While it would be silly to guarantee zero stress for the new family environment, below are tips for a transition with more playtime and fewer headaches to help you get started.
Here’s what you need to know:
Get ready in style
Prep the space with all the necessities needed to make your new addition’s life as happy as possible. Based on the needs of your new child or pet, this could mean turning your home office or game room into a nursery, or finding the perfect doggy door to install in the back entrance. After checking big-ticket items off your list, consider how moments such as bath time will change in the new dynamic. Choose a product that is stylish and functional, like the Peerless SideKick Shower System, which has interchangeable attachments for parents, pet and baby. Versatile shower additions create a one-stop shop for everyone in the family, limiting mess and making bath time more efficient and cost-effective!.
Proof! Proof!
When you walk through your front door, you are greeted with the comfort and security of being in a space made just for you. With a new baby or pet, that could all change! It is important to take a careful look at your home and proof for all possible dangers and accidents. Move chemicals and cleaning products onto high shelves, tape electrical cords to baseboards, find ways to secure cabinets and doors that you would prefer not to have curious hands, mouths and noses digging around in, and make sure anything that can induce choking is stored in a safe place, far away from the curious new family member.
Budget for two
A new addition to the family means one more mouth to feed and nurture. It is important to prepare for unexpected expenses. Babies and pets are more prone to illness, injury and accidents because they are constantly exploring their environment. Remember to plan ahead by setting up a monthly savings plan to make room for miscellaneous expenses in your monthly budget. Go the extra mile and save more money by buying clothes and accessories from thrift or consignment stores, using family or friends for backup daycare, and asking relatives to babysit or puppy sit. Remember that planning is key. You’ve got this!
Playtime
Ensure a stress- and mess-free playtime by designating an area for play in your home. If possible, create a gated space to give yourself a sense of control over playtime activities. This will offer peace of mind and allow your new addition to have fun and express themselves without any inhibitions. Bonus: There is less cleanup time as well.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Broker’s Agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact an agent or loan officer to learn more.
(BPT) – Once reserved for the urban elite, rooftop decks are popping up all over the country as an attractive option that offers a mixture of space savings and an unrivaled view. Rooftop decks take what was formerly unused space – the top of a building or the flat roof over part of a home – and reclaim it for a unique entertaining area or family gathering spot.
1. Define the use
Defining how the deck will be used most of the time is the top way to make sure the space fits the homeowners’ needs. Questions like, “Will the deck host weekly family dinner?” and “Will you use it daily for drinks and lounging?” help determine whether a kitchen/dining area is needed and how much seating should be included. Plan for how many people you expect to fit on the deck.
2. Stay true to your style
Most people have a style or color scheme they are already drawn to. A good designer will pay attention to the rest of a homeowner’s space and incorporate that theme into the rooftop deck to create a cohesive style from interior to exterior.
3. Focus on materials
Materials have a significant impact on the final look of the deck, whether it’s sleek tile, decorative concrete or luxury composite lumber. James said his rooftop decks are primarily Envision composite lumber by TAMKO, because of the wide variety of styles the boards can accommodate, taking on everything from the look of exotic hardwoods to distressed reclaimed barn wood.
4. Add a covering
Regardless of how the deck will be used, it’s nice to have a covered area to escape the heat of the sun or the rain. Depending on the homeowners’ needs and budget, the covering can be anything from a grouping of large umbrellas to a covered structure with glass walls.
5. Include a fire element
If adding a covering helps extend deck season through the extreme heat of summer and the rain of spring, including a fire element extends the deck’s use through the fall and winter. This could be something as simple as a fire pit or as elaborate as a built-in fireplace.
6. Work with the views
Consider the natural views when deciding where to add a covering and how to position furniture on a rooftop deck. One area of the deck may offer superior views, either of nature or of a cityscape. Position furniture to open up to the best view and construct deck coverings and any needed walls to obstruct undesirable views.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers agent to learn more.
(BPT) – The backyard barbecue is a staple of the American summer. Long days filled with sun, fun, family and friends are what make lifelong memories. Now is the perfect time to start planning for your next barbecue, so you, too, can create memories you won’t soon forget.
However, before you fire up the grill, you will want to ensure your backyard is prepped and ready to host your friends and family.
Here are three tips to help you create the perfect setting for your patio party:
1. Lay the groundwork
The first step to setting any stage is to lay the groundwork. Unfortunately, many deck or patio surfaces become uncomfortably hot in the direct sun. The problem affects dark-colored deck boards, especially, which absorb heat throughout the day, as well as some composite boards that hold heat. As a result, what should be a comfortable stroll across your deck might end up feeling more like a crash course in the ancient art of fire walking. An overly hot deck is especially problematic for young children and pets, whose feet are more heat sensitive.
“Many people tell us they love the beauty and durability of their composite deck, but not the heat,” said Brent Gwatney, vice president of MoistureShield Decking. His company has developed a solution they call CoolDeck technology. The boards are engineered to absorb up to 35 percent less heat than other composites in similar colors, for a noticeably lower surface temperature on hot summer days.
2. Create shade
Once you have protected your feet from the heat, you’ll want to shield the rest of your body from the summer sun with a pergola or gazebo. These stylish coverings provide a refreshing shady area for friends and family to relax and enjoy themselves. Turn this area into the ultimate relaxation zone by adding hammocks or hanging chairs, along with climbing vines for added beauty and extra protection from the sun.
If you are a weekend do-it-yourself type, look for gazebo and pergola plans on popular social media sites. For the less handy, many deck builders will complete the project for you without breaking the bank.
3. Light up the night
Once the sun sets and the temperature drops, you might find yourself missing the light and warmth of the day. While tiki torches offer a temporary aesthetic solution, a more permanent outdoor fireplace can provide heat, light and ambiance to keep your guests happy long into the night. There are many style options, from wood-burning designs to more modern styles that burn gas or propane.
The pricing varies greatly depending on whether you decide on a custom build, or choose to purchase a prefab or portable unit from a home improvement store. With a custom-built fireplace you can even include an outdoor pizza oven and give your guests an alternative to the typical burgers and hot dogs menu. A custom-built fireplace will cost more, and will require a stonemason, but will allow for more personalized features. For more budget-friendly options, you can always pick up a simple wood-burning fire pit from your local home improvement store, starting as low as $200.
Whether you are designing a completely new backyard or just giving your existing one a face-lift, these three tips will help you to create a stylish space that will keep you and your guests comfortable and happy during all of your summer events.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers agent to learn more.
(BPT) – It’s National Wildfire Awareness Week. So, if you live in a wildfire-prone area, make sure you’re taking the right steps to stave off potential damage long before flames rage toward your doorstep.
And one of the best ways to do that is to take a look at the home itself.
“It’s a combination of the house materials, the house design and then everything around it within 100 feet that makes the difference between a safer home and one that has a greater risk of damage from wildfire,” says Michele Steinberg, manager of the Wildfire Operations Division for the National Fire Protection Association.
“All of our recommendations are really for well before the fire ever starts.”
Steinberg recommends paying special attention to these five spots around your house:
* The roof. Ensure yours is rated Class A, which means the covering and underlayment provide the most effective resistance to fire. It’s a big-ticket item for homeowners, but the most critical design item when it comes time to replace an aging roof.
* The gutters. Keep them free of debris such as leaves and pine needles, which can be ignited by swirling embers. “A wildfire doesn’t even need to be close to your house to cause a problem,” Steinberg says. “A blizzard of embers can pile up on roofs, porches and in gutters.”
* The foundation. It’s best that decks, porches and fences be made of non-flammable materials. Keeping their surface areas clear also is critical. Screening porches and decks with fine, metal mesh can help prevent embers from sweeping in to ignite leaves and other debris.
* The windows and vents. Double-paned or tempered glass better withstands approaching heat. “I’ve seen cases where the outside window breaks but the inside pane stays intact, so you have that extra level of protection,” Steinberg said. And, if possible, build in under-eave and side-roof vents to make it more difficult for the wind to blow in embers.
* The landscaping. Keep organic flammable materials such as trees, shrubbery and even mulch from contact with your house. They can lead fire right to the siding. Store firewood at least 30 feet from the house because of the intense heat and large flames it creates when ignited.
Find out more about how the Wildfire Response Program can provide you with extra wildfire protection when you need it.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers agent to learn more.
(BPT) – The backyard. It’s your oasis. Your happy place. Your second living room. It’s the place to go not only for “me” time – but quality time with friends and family.
This National Barbecue Month, the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association wants to help you make your backyard the best backyard it can be.
Think sheds. No, not your grandparents’ tattered shed filled with a dusty mower and 30-year-old paint brushes. We’re talking highly personalized sheds. Intimate covered spaces that keep the sun’s rays out but bring the summer in.
Outdoor sheds come in all shapes and sizes and can be personalized to fit within all types of lifestyles. From fun-filled tapsheds where friends gather for a margarita and grilled salmon to an intimate she shed stocked with wine and cheese or even a hobby shed for the family to play board games while munching on braised ribs and root beer, sheds can do it all.
Building a personalized shed can be a daunting task. Consider these five tips to help you create your ideal outdoor oasis just in time for summer:
1. Have a plan: Are you starting from scratch or cleaning out an existing old shed? What’s the theme? What’s the budget? What’s the goal? How much room do you have to work with? Before you start building your shed, make sure you have a plan in place. You may be eager to jump right in but it’s much easier to follow a well-laid plan than to make decisions on the fly.
2. Stick to a theme: A craft shed, a relaxation shed, a party shed – there are so many options when it comes to creating your perfect shed. Choose one theme and tailor all decisions around your theme of choice. For example, if you decide to go with a relaxation shed, choose calming colors and peaceful decorations.
3. Utilize your resources: Your shed is a part of your outdoor space and you should utilize all the free beauty that nature has to offer when it comes to decorating your shed. Build your shed under your favorite tree to offer natural shade or decorate your shed with dried flowers or vines.
4. Less is more: When designing an outdoor shed, it is easy to go overboard. Remember to keep it simple and that you want to have enough room to entertain guests and to hang out in your shed. Keeping things minimal will also ensure you stay within your budget.
5. Remember the exterior: One easy way to customize your shed is with a coat of paint. Choose a paint color that goes with your theme. Then invite friends and family over for a day of painting fun in the sun.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers agent to learn more.
(BPT) – The value of homeowners insurance is often thrust into the national spotlight when natural disasters happen. The devastation and financial loss they can cause reinforces the importance of making sure you have adequate insurance coverage to rebuild if disaster strikes your home. In 2017 alone, the U.S. was struck by 16 separate billion-dollar disaster events, resulting in a record-breaking $300 billion in damage, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Thankfully, most Americans don’t experience large-scale natural catastrophes, but millions of homeowners do experience some kind of property loss each year and need to make an insurance claim. The most commonly reported homeowners insurance claims are actually the result of events that can occur at any time, so it’s important for homeowners to be prepared for these potential risks.
Water damage claims are most common
“Water claims are the ones we see most often,” says Christopher O’Rourke, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “While certain perils are seasonal, water damage can occur any time of year. It’s important for homeowners to conduct routine maintenance of appliance hoses and water pipes to make sure there aren’t cracks or leaks and, if any are detected, have them repaired or replaced immediately.
Smart home technology also delivers an extra layer of protection for homeowners by providing 24/7 monitoring to help detect water pipe leaks. Professionally installed water pressure sensors, for example, work with most smartphones and can, among other things, automatically shut off the home’s main water supply if a leak or burst pipe is detected.
Fire damage is a concern for homeowners
While water claims are the most common, fire damage is another possible concern for homeowners and can be caused in several ways. The National Fire Protection Association reports nearly half a million structure fires occurred in 2016, resulting in $7.5 billion in property damage, and wildfires ravaged California in 2017, leading to one of the year’s billion-dollar disaster events.
“Most home fires happen when people are inattentive or negligent. These fires are preventable if people don’t leave things like lit stoves, fireplaces, candles or portable heat sources unattended. You should also refrain from overloading electrical outlets and using appliances with frayed electrical cords,” he says. “These things seem like common sense, but it’s amazing how many claims we see that result from simply not paying attention.
Theft can be costly
Theft doesn’t necessarily pose a threat to the physical structure of a home, but it too can be costly and it often leaves homeowners feeling scared and violated. The FBI’s Universal Crime Report estimates 1.5 million burglaries occurred in 2016 – with residential properties accounting for 69.5 percent of these offenses.
Homeowners can help safeguard against theft by taking simple, but often overlooked precautions like ensuring doors and windows are locked, and not leaving spare keys in easy-to-find locations. Several smart home devices can also aid in deterring potential thieves by allowing homeowners to adjust lights, monitor security cameras and activate security systems from their smartphones even when they’re away from home.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers agent to learn more.
(BPT) – 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 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.
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.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers agent to learn more.
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(BPT) – With spring having officially begun, many eager homeowners and landscape professionals across the country will roll up their sleeves and reach for their shovels to start projects that require digging this season.
During the transition into “digging season,” Common Ground Alliance (CGA), the organization dedicated to protecting underground utility lines, people who dig near them, and their communities, reminds homeowners and professional diggers that calling 811 is the first step toward protecting you and your community from the risk of unintentionally damaging an underground line.
Every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants a free call to 811. Installing a mailbox or fence, building a deck and landscaping are all examples of digging projects that should only begin a few days after making a call to 811. Calling this number connects you to your local one-call utility notification center.
According to data collected by CGA in a phone survey in February, millions of American homeowners will likely do DIY projects involving digging this year, but 36 percent of them do not plan to make a free call to 811 before digging. Extrapolated to the full population of U.S. homeowners, approximately 48.3 million people will dig this year without first calling 811.
A utility line is damaged every nine minutes in America because someone decided to dig without making a call to 811 to learn the approximate location of buried utilities in their area. Unintentionally striking one of these lines can result in inconvenient outages for entire neighborhoods, serious harm to yourself or your neighbors, and significant repair costs.
As a result, CGA offers the following tips to make sure you complete your project safely and without any utility service interruptions, so you don’t become a statistic.
Here’s how the 811 process works:
1. One free, simple phone call to 811 makes it easy for your local one-call center to notify appropriate utility companies of your intent to dig. Call a few days prior to digging to ensure enough time for the approximate location of utility lines to be marked with flags or paint.
2. When you call 811, a representative from your local one-call center will ask for the location and description of your digging project.
3. Your local one-call center will notify affected utility companies, which will then send professional locators to the proposed dig site to mark the approximate location of your lines.
4. Only once all lines have been accurately marked, carefully dig around the marked areas.
There are nearly 20 million miles of underground utility lines in the United States, which equates to more than a football field’s length of utilities for every person in the U.S. Your family depends on this buried infrastructure for your everyday needs including electric, natural gas, water and sewer, cable TV, high-speed Internet and landline telephone. With that much critical infrastructure underground, it’s important to know what’s below and call 811 before digging.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
(
BPT) – Spring is officially here, bringing flowers, greenery and increased pest activity. Because termite evidence is more noticeable in warmer months, it is important to check for any warning signs every spring. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce the likelihood of a termite infestation in the first place.
Keep shrubs trimmed
Well-maintained shrubbery looks nice, but it also serves an important purpose: Trimming shrubs reduces the likelihood termites and pests will enter your home. Stray branches that touch a house’s exterior provide pests with direct access to potential entry points. By properly maintaining landscaping, you can make access more difficult for these unwelcome house guests.
Modify your landscape
It’s important to make smart decisions when adding landscaping, because termites are more attracted to some materials than others. Instead of traditional mulch, opt for synthetic mulch or pea gravel. These alternatives are less attractive to termites than wood-based mulch.
Maintain home exteriors
Termites need water to survive. Controlling excess moisture can help reduce the risk of an infestation. Regularly maintaining home exteriors, such as wooden siding and windows, can help you detect and repair leaks early.
Monitor interior moisture
Many homeowners forget to think about moisture inside their homes, particularly in basements and crawlspaces. Properly ventilating these areas helps minimize the amount of moisture around floor joists and sub flooring. Reducing moisture in interior spaces can help reduce the likelihood that termites will take up residence in your home.
If you suspect you may have a termite problem, the best solution is to call a pest professional such as Terminix. Termite warning signs include blisters in wood flooring, hollowed or damaged wood, and evidence of swarms such as discarded wings, mud tubes and droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. Early detection can prevent a small termite problem from becoming a widespread infestation.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
Pacific Home Broker’s agents can help you find your dream home. With a little luck and our experience, we can guide you through the process of home ownership.
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(BPT) – With spring officially arriving, home improvement season is swinging into full gear. Fair warning to homeowners looking to hire a professional, 2018 is predicted to be a record-breaker.
A recent study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University projects home improvement spending will approach $340 billion this year – the strongest gain for remodeling in more than a decade. Among the costliest of projects is roofing, a large expense with serious implications if put off or improperly done.
When you add 2018’s remodeling demand with the much-talked-about skilled labor shortage, on top of the recovery from last year’s hurricane season, homeowners could be tempted to jump right into major home work, all without doing their homework first. As this could prove costly, consider the following before anyone sets foot on your roof:
1. Check contractor qualifications
Choose a local, reputable contractor. These contractors should have the best knowledge of local building codes, state codes and required certifications and licenses. Ask the contractor to see their certificate of insurance before stepping onto the roof. Consider going the extra mile and choosing a contractor certified by the manufacturer of the shingle the contractor installs. Improper installation is considered one of the major reasons roofs fail prematurely, so finding a contractor with knowledge and experience in the correct application of a particular product is of the utmost importance.
2. Determine layover or tear off
Many times, contractors will push for a removal of all existing shingles, or a tear off, over adding another layer of shingles on top of an existing roof, a layover. Although a complete tear off is more expensive due to increased labor costs, there are some advantages.
“When you tear off, you get a chance to look at the roof deck and repair any deteriorating wood or substrate,” said Rick Taylor, longtime roofing contractor and a trainer for shingle manufacturer TAMKO Building Products Inc.
Typically, doing a layover is more economical, although homeowners need to discuss relevant factors with their contractor, including local building code requirements and implications for the manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Research the warranty
It is important to understand the warranty specific to the roof product you have installed. Educate yourself on requirements for installation, including whether a shingle layover is applicable, as mentioned above.
Other warranty concerns to consider include proper installation, the required steps to register your roof after installation and the time period allowed for transferring that warranty to future owners of the home.
4. Assess ventilation needs
Inadequate roof ventilation is another major culprit behind premature roof aging. There are a variety of options for roof ventilation; however, it is generally recommended to incorporate proper ventilation into the original re-roof, rather than add it later. The recommended ventilation depends on the size and architecture of the home, but when done correctly, the air inside the attic should be near the same temperature as the ambient temperature of the air outside it.
5. Check the weather
It may seem obvious, but a simple check of the weather before starting a roofing project could prevent a big headache later. Avoid starting a project with wet plywood or underlayment, or when the forecast indicates a strong chance of rain. Also, many manufacturers of asphalt shingles, the most popular form of roofing in the U.S., do not recommend installation in below-freezing temperatures or in excessively high temperatures.
Careful consideration of these steps during your next home exterior project could save you from costly and lengthy rework years later.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
(BPT) – House hunting can feel like an adventurous new chapter in your life. If you’re lucky enough to find the property that checks off all the must have boxes such as appearance, size, price, and location, it’s easy to fall in love.
Not so fast. Before making an offer on any property, it’s smart to take a deeper look at the overall structure and its systems, just to make sure warning signs of major and costly problems are not hiding in plain sight. If the house holds more issues than your budget and drive to renovate can handle, it might be best to walk away.
Of course, once the offer is accepted, it’s always a smart idea to hire a third-party home inspector to take an in-depth look at the property. In the meantime, one last pass-through with this checklist in hand can give you peace of mind about taking the next step.
Exterior: Walk around all four sides of the house, scanning it from ground to rooftop. Note the condition of the doors and window frames, and look for cracked or peeling paint or signs of loose siding. Higher up, eye the chimney, making sure it appears straight and is in good condition, while the gutters and drainpipes should be in place and functional.
Roof: Ideally, the roof would be 10 years old or less, so scan the roof for the classic warning signs of aging and neglect. Things like curled and missing shingles, dark stains, moss growth and signs of sagging can signal serious issues. A home inspector can confirm if full replacement is needed, or if a few simple repairs would stabilize things for another decade.
Yard: Take note of the landscaping. Is there a slope angled away from the house, or is there a potential for a flooded basement after a major rainfall? Mature trees provide lots of shade, but watch for overhanging branches, as these can break off in a storm and do major damage to the roof. Finally, take note of the condition of the driveway and sidewalks.
Foundation: The sight of a few hairline cracks in the cement is no cause for panic. Do look for telltale signs of serious issues, such as widening cracks, water stains and bulges. It doesn’t hurt to bring a level to make sure the walls are straight.
Plumbing: In addition to checking basement and under-sink pipes for signs of leaks, scan the ceilings for water stains. Open all the faucets to check the water pressure as well as the time it takes for hot water to reach the tap.
HVAC system: Know the age of the heating and cooling systems, and check these for tags and other signs of routine maintenance. If the system is older than a decade, that can spell costly repairs and a replacement in a brief time frame. When it comes to older systems, energy efficiency is another consideration. For example, Coleman’s Echelon products are rated up to 20 SEER, which stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Compare these to the 10 SEER systems of 25 years ago, and that can give you an idea of what to expect in potential energy costs.
Appliances: Note the age and condition of things like the refrigerator, oven and range, washer and dryer, and hot water heater. As with the HVAC, older appliances tend to consume more energy and you’ll face a shorter timeline for needed repairs and replacements.
Buying a house is a big decision, but knowing what you’re buying can go a long way in assuring you that you’ve found the right place!
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Pacific Home Brokers’ agents understand that a happy home life is paramount to true success. Our experienced agents will help guide you to the home you desire so you can create a happy home.
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(BPT) – Outdoor living spaces rank first among special function rooms desired by consumers, according to the American Institute for Architects, and so homeowners are expected to be going all-in for the outdoors in 2018.
Year-round enjoyment
Among the biggest trends is a shift away from seasonality as consumers adopt more of a year-round mindset, no longer restricting outdoor living to spring and summer. Thanks to new high-performance materials and innovative design approaches, homeowners everywhere are transforming their outdoor spaces into multi-seasonal extensions of their homes. For example, Trex contractors have reported an uptick in requests for its RainEscape deck drainage system by clients looking to add multi-seasonal living space underneath an elevated deck.
Minimal maintenance, maximum enjoyment
Just because people are spending more time outdoors doesn’t mean they’re willing to put in extra hours for upkeep. In fact, high-maintenance materials like wood are seeing a decrease in demand as people are opting for offerings that deliver better performance and sustainability.
Unlike wood, high-performance composites resist fading, staining, scratching and mold – and won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter. No sanding, staining or painting is required, and food and drink spills wash off easily with just soap and water.
Comfy cozy
Among the hottest design influences right now is “hygge” (pronounced hoo-gah) – the Scandinavian term for a feeling of coziness and comfort. This year, outdoor spaces will beckon homeowners and their guests to relax and rejuvenate with hygge-inspired accents, from plush cushions and throws to protective pergolas, cozy warming features and outdoor lighting.
Residential goes commercial
While railing matched to the decking remains popular, an increasing number of homeowners are taking advantage of the complementary decking and railing pairings afforded by new railing materials in modern, metal finishes, as well as sleek designs inspired by commercial architecture. More homeowners are inspired by outdoor spaces they find in commercial settings, such as hotels and urban rooftops, and want to replicate those looks in their homes. A prime example of this commercial-to-residential trend is the growing popularity of horizontal railings such as rod rail – a sleek, industrial look that’s ideal for optimizing a panoramic view.
Hide and chic
With the increased usage of outdoor living spaces comes higher demand for chic decor and privacy. An easy design trick that adds personal style and functionality, lattice panels are perfect for enhancing privacy and concealing storage areas or unsightly views. With styles ranging from romantic to deco, lattice panels can be integrated into any outdoor area and applied to structures such as arbors, trellises and gazebos, or used as decorative wainscoting or deck skirting.
Fun and games
Kids are not the only ones who enjoy playing outside. Outdoor play spaces for all ages are on the rise, including everything from swimming pools and embedded sandboxes to regulation cornhole courts, horseshoe pits and dedicated spaces for volleyball, badminton and bocce ball.
Beyond yard games, electronics manufacturers now offer televisions and entertainment systems specifically designed for the outdoors, taking into consideration differences in lighting and outdoor acoustics. Meanwhile, new storage options include durable wall-mounted television and entertainment centers that beautifully protect pricey electronics from the elements, while concealing all of the unsightly – and potentially unsafe – cords and cables.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
Home appreciation can offset paying more monthly to buy a home. In many cases your rental payment is the same cost as a monthly mortgage payment. Buying a home while rates are this low is a sound decision.
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(BPT) – The artificial intelligence that’s already taking the world by storm is ramping up even more in 2018, enabling a number of innovative new smart home tools that can make your life easier, more comfortable or just more fun.
Throughout the year, consumers worldwide are expected to spend $102 billion on hardware, services and installation related to smart home systems, an amount expected to ramp up to $157 billion by 2022. The number of connected things installed in smart cities by next year? Nearly 1.1 billion, predicts Statista. Increasingly, people will enjoy the convenience of being able to monitor and control their surroundings with a simple touch or a few words of direction. In fact, a 2017 study found 24 percent of consumers already own a voice-controlled device and another 20 percent plan to purchase one in the next year.
“Pretty much anything can be made smart these days,” notes Bernard Marr in Forbes. “For our homes, there are obvious smart products like TVs and less obvious ones, like yoga mats that track your Downward Dog. We can carry out a whole range of tasks on the move simply by touching a screen.”
Some of the hottest smart home products that have recently debuted:
* LG’s entire line of OLED TVs is now AI enabled. They also let you speak right into the remote control so with one word, you can check weather reports, search for content from over-the-air or streaming sources (including Netflix, Amazon, Hulu or YouTube), order items through Google or even control other IoT devices within your network. Even better, LG Electronics has invented a next-generation OLED TV that combines the most powerful A9 Intelligent Processor created with Atmos audio technology. The result? The LG SIGNATURE OLED TV W8 offers stunningly clear and detailed pictures, cinema-quality sound and ultra-fast response times.
* Seeking the smartest refrigerator on the market? The Wi-Fi-enabled LG ThinQ InstaView is the first to offer built-in Amazon Alexa that responds to your spoken directions by creating to-do lists and grocery lists, ordering the groceries themselves, controlling your refrigerator settings, playing the music of your choice and otherwise stepping up to make your life easier. A convenient touchscreen panel lets you instantaneously peruse the weather, recipes, shopping sites or the contents of your fridge – without losing energy by opening the door.
* Hands-free speakers with voice-activated assistants such as Google Home and Amazon Echo are helping tens of millions of people worldwide efficiently manage their lives by interacting on command with everything from home appliances to entertainment systems to information sources to online shopping venues.
* What’s for dinner? Recipe apps like SideChef and Innit already deliver fast and intelligent answers to that age-old question, giving everything needed to plan and prepare the next meal. Voice-controlled AI takes this to the next level. Innit is now connected to some models of smart ovens, and for SideChef that feature is coming online in 2018. What does that mean for home chefs? When they speak to the oven to start heating, it will already know those roasted veggies need 25 minutes in a 425-degree oven.
* In its latest version, the Bluetooth music headset that may already be a staple of your life allows you to access the Google Assistant by voice so you can instantly access a range of functions beyond just music. The LG TONE PLATINUM SE lets you request and receive notifications and answers to questions, send text or audio messages and more while you’re on the go.
Thanks to the continual evolution of technology, we can start the new year with fun new products aimed at making our lives more efficient, organized and enjoyable. And that pattern should only continue into the future.
“Already, many of us wake up in our ‘smart beds’ to a Bluetooth-connected alarm clock that communicates with our WiFi-enabled speakers,” notes marketing consultant A.J. Agrawal in Entrepreneur. “Soon, all our devices – microwaves, washing machines and even bird feeders – will be connected to the web. With geospatial data from all of our devices, tech-savvy companies will be able to optimize and automate systems, eradicating inefficiencies caused by human error.”
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ to learn more.
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
(BPT) – As winter approaches, many cities in the U.S. have already started to experience the winter chill with temperatures below freezing and snow fall. But cold weather isn’t exclusively a northern phenomenon as the majority of the country experiences extreme temperatures at some point during the winter months. Remember in January 2014 when all 50 states logged below-freezing temperatures on the same day?
Cold weather can wreak havoc on your home and your comfort if you are not well prepared. That’s why it’s important to prepare your home for winter and take extra precautions for when the temperatures drop, no matter where you live.
Here are some tips that can help protect your house and comfort this winter:
* Install a smart thermostat. You may not always be home when you learn of a coming cold snap or hear that temperatures have plummeted. Using an app on your smartphone, a smart thermostat can allow you to make adjustments to your home’s temperature from anywhere, which means you can always come home to a toasty warm house.
* Seal windows and doors. Check weather stripping around windows and doors. If you find worn, cracked or inadequate sealing, replace it. Sealing around windows and doors helps prevent heat loss in the winter.
* Prep your pipes. Below freezing temperatures can cause water pipes to crack or burst. Insulate any water pipes that are exposed, winterize outdoor faucets and turn off the water to your home if you plan to be away for a prolonged period of time.
* Make sure your heat source measures up. Older, traditional HVAC systems can struggle to keep your home comfortable when temperatures dip below freezing. Consider installing LGRED-enabled HVAC technology to your home. LG’s Reliable to Extreme Degrees (RED) heating and cooling systems can be installed in a wide variety of climates, including places that experience extremely low temperatures. They provide 100 percent heating capacity down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit, and continue to heat reliably even when the outside temperature is as low as -13 degrees.
* Take care of your roof. Inspect your roof and repair any damaged shingles before winter storms arrive. Be sure gutters are clean to help prevent an ice dam and trim any tree branches that could fall on your home if they break under heavy snow and ice.
* Add insulation. The Insulation Institute estimates 90 percent of American homes have less than the minimum recommended insulation. Check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s home insulation guidelines to see if you need to add more in your home. Having adequate insulation ensures your home efficiently retains heat and keeps the cold out.
* Gather emergency supplies. Extreme weather could leave you without power or unable to leave your home to get supplies or help. Keep a well-stocked emergency kit, complete with bottled water, non-perishable food, extra blankets, a battery-operated or hand-crank radio (for weather report updates), a battery or solar light source, and a solar charging device that can be used to power your smartphone. If you have a wood-burning fireplace for supplemental heat, be sure to have a supply of dry firewood on hand in case of a power outage.
Extreme weather can happen anywhere; in 2014, even Hawaii recorded a below-freezing temperature of 21 degrees. When it comes to home comfort and keeping your family warm during the winter, it’s a good idea to prepare for what is to come!
Please click here to contact a Pacific Home Brokers™ agent to learn more.
