Necessary Improvements First Time Homeowners Shouldn’t Forget:
With the tight housing market most buyers have experienced in the past 6 months, many buyers have been purchasing homes that requires updates to structural and mechanical systems. Many new homebuyers focus their repair budget on aesthetics such as updating a kitchen or bathroom, while placing a lower priority on systems updates. However, paying attention to the homes needed updates is critical to protecting their investment. Here are some key areas to address:
1. Clear gutters keep water away from the foundation, minimizing basement leaks. Downspouts should extend 5’ from the house.
2. Poorly insulated homes waste huge amounts of money both in Winter and Summer. Spending a few thousand dollars bringing a home up to modern insulation standards can save in the long run. Foam insulation is becoming more standard.
3. Foundation cracks need attention to prevent a problem from getting worse. Repairing cracks will help eliminate water into the basement.
4. Damaged roof shingles can often be repaired without replacing the entire roof. Even so, older roofs need to be monitored to determine when a replacement is necessary. Ignoring this can lead to costly interior repairs.
5. Upgrade older incandescent or CFL lights to LED bulbs throughout the house. LED’s use almost half the electricity as equivalent CFL’s and have become more affordable.
6. Upgrade air conditioning from window units to either central air or mini-split system. Air conditioning will improve the home value and reduce excess moisture. A mini-split system, although more expensive, can cost less to operate, cooling rooms only when needed.
7. Electrical outages can be eliminated by installing battery backup system to a house with solar panels or a whole house generator to a house without. Federal tax credits still exist for some solar systems.
8. Exterior wood needs to be maintained. Water can rot wood trim, deck boards and railings if not properly protected. Mold should be removed, and wood sealed with paint or wood sealers.
9. Tree maintenance should not be overlooked. Limbs overhanging or close the house should be pruned and diseased trees should be removed to prevent spread.
10. Chimney maintenance need to be addressed in order to prevent further damage and keep the chimney operating safely. Repair damaged mortar and bricks. Install a cap to keep out moisture and install a new liner if necessary.
