Blog Archives
A Home Energy Audit Can Save You Money
A Home Energy Audit is the first step to finding out how much energy your home consumes. It also helps you evaluate what improvements you need to make to lower your energy bills and that can save you big money in the long run!
Not only will an energy audit save you money on your electric bills, but you will increase your own comfort and help your home’s marketability and value.
Typically an energy audit consists of:
- Visual inspection of the home and appliances/systems.
- Blower door test to determine airflow patterns and see where there are leaks that need to be fixed.
- Thermal imaging pictures to spot potential problem areas behind walls/ceilings and floors.
So if you are a homeowner with difficulty heating or cooling rooms, poor indoor air quality or excessive energy bills, then a home energy audit may be right for you!
Home Improvements on a Budget
Whether you are thinking about selling or just want to improve your home, here are some tips to increasing your home’s value on a budget.
PAINT, PAINT, PAINT
One of the simpliest and cost effective ways to increase your home’s value is to paint. Neutral colors will appeal to the most potential buyers.
INSPECT YOUR HOME
Hire a home inspector to do a full report on your home from foundation to roof. Finding hidden problems now can definitely save you money in the future. It will also help your home’s value by taking care of any issues that may arise when you try to sell.
LOW MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING
Not only will sprucing up your landscaping add curb appeal but will help your home’s value if you go to sell. Finding plants and trees that are native to your area will help you conserve water and ultimately save money on maintenance.
CLEAN YOUR HOME
You only get one chance to make a first impression, especially if you are thinking about selling. Hire a cleaning company to give your home a full scrubbing from top to bottom. Clear out any clutter to make your home feel more spacious.
UPDATE YOUR BATHROOMS
You don’t need to completely remodel your bathrooms, but updating on a small scale will help increase your home’s value. Replace outdated fixtures and wallpaper.
DIY Upgrades for Under $100
If you are on a budget but still want to spruce up your home or get it ready to sell, here are some Do-It-Yourself Upgrades that won’t break the bank.
1) Install a Ceiling Fan
Ceiling Fans are can be not only aesthetic, but can provide a great service in the summer or winter by simply reversing the blades spin.
2) Add Some Sparkle
Swap out old or plain knobs with new ones.
3) Change Out Your Old Mirror
Hang a decorative mirror for an elegant look in a bath, bedroom, or foyer.
4) Make a Sink Skirt
If you have a pedestal sink, consider adding a skirt around it to conceal toiletries.
5) Turn a Closet into an Office
Unhinge the doors and hanging rods to create space for a home office. Add a simple desk or install a countertop to complete the look.
6) Unclutter the Garage
Organize the garage by adding a simple pegboard rack.
7) Paint Your Front Door
For a new look, paint your front door for a welcoming entrance.
8) Install New House Numbers
Adding new house numbers can really dress up your front entrance, while making it easy for visitors to find you.
9) Fill in Paver Cracks
If you have trouble with weeds sprouting between your pavers, consider putting in low-growing English thyme between the cracks. You can purchase a 400-seed pack for about $2.
10) Install a Dimmer Switch
Set the mood while saving money with a dimmer switch in any room.
Home Inspections 101
So you’ve gone under contract on a home, what’s next? We highly suggest having a home inspection on the property, whether it is old or new. An inspection will provide a “check up” of the house and let you know of potential problems.
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), “the standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.”
Here’s a great article from RealtyTimes.com of the ins and outs of a Home Inspection.
Check out our preferred vendors page to locate a home inspector.
