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Tips for a Better Credit Score

Wednesday, April 14, 2021
by Scott Darling


When you realize that you are ready to afford a home of your own, the first and most important item to consider is your financial situation.  For a lender to see you as a good prospect, the first thing they look at is your credit score.  While there are very few perfect scores, you can (and should!) take the time to improve it before you start looking at prospective homes. 

 

  • - Begin by requesting a free credit report from all three reporting agencies.   Look for errors and report them to the credit bureau and company that posted them.  Legitimate collections that have been paid will not be removed from your credit history for seven years, although they will be marked as paid.
     

  • - Late payments hurt your credit score.  Stay current by creating a written budget with due dates for your bills or set up automatic drafts through your bank. 
     

  • - Pay off your credit cards!  This is particularly important, because the more outstanding debt you have, the lower your score.  Begin by paying off the smallest balance. Larger balances can be paid off sooner by increasing your payments or send equal payments twice per month if the creditor allows. 
     

  • - According to FICO™, it is better to pay off a credit card than canceling the account.  Use it as minimally as possible--simply charging a once-a-month take-out meal will keep it active. 
     

  • - Having just one credit account in good standing is better than none for those who have not started establishing credit history. Shop around for a credit card with a good interest rate and apply. 
     

  • - Avoid new credit accounts while you are trying to bring your score up. Pay cash for everything, and if you do not have the cash, unless it is an emergency, do not buy it. 
     

  • - When you cannot see a light at the end of the financial tunnel, contact a reputable credit repair agency that can assist you in getting your bills paid, manage your finances, and increase your chance of becoming a homeowner. 

 

Plan on spending up to a year to bring your credit score up to a number that will impress lenders, not to mention getting a better interest rate.  Much like taking up exercise and a new diet to get into shape, take it slow, increase your efforts every month, and you will soon be showing off the results--in your new home! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: student loan hero

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Protect Your Home's Plumbing

Tuesday, March 30, 2021
by Scott Darling


Our home’s plumbing is not necessarily something we consider when it comes to “caring” for our house.  There are many ways we abuse this necessary home system every day without realizing it! No one wants to go days without the convenience of plumbing, nor do we want to pay the bill that comes with plumbing repair. Keep the following in mind to keep your plumbing running smoothly: 

 

  • Know where your main water shut-off valve is located and know how to turn it off in case of burst pipes.  This can at least prevent flooding, though it will not solve the running water issue. 
     

  • Consider investing in a leak protection system that will sound an alarm when it detects leaks.  The cost to install such a tool can save big money in water damage repair costs. 
     

  • Just because there are drains in our sinks and tubs does not give free rein over what goes down those drains! Items that should not go down the drain include paint, medications, household chemicals, coffee grounds, and raw flour.  
     

  • There are products we use as part of our daily hygiene routine that are not good for plumbing, according to this article from Apartment Therapy. 
     

  • Garbage disposals are great tools but must be used properly. Grease or oil of any kind, eggshells, and bones are all on this list of what not to put into the disposal. 
     

  • Check washer hoses often and replace every them five years. 
     

  • If your water heater is more than ten years old, consider replacing it. They have an average lifespan of 8-12 years and using them longer than that can cause sediment to clog the hot water pipes. 
     

  • Items labeled “flushable” should just be thrown in the garbage can. These items do not break down quickly and clog drains, as well as septic and sewage systems. 
     

  • Using drain-clearing chemicals can do more harm than good, especially if you use them often as they corrode the pipes. If a plumber has been called, let them know that there are chemicals in the pipes so they can protect themselves from chemical burns. 

 

The plumbing in our home is one of those out-of-sight-out-of-mind things, so there is not much thought given to it until it breaks down. Taking care of the pipes to, from, and inside our house is the best way to avoid clogged or damaged lines, as well as adding longer life to this important home system. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: state farm

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Stop Renting & Become a Homeowner

Thursday, March 25, 2021
by Scott Darling


Rising rent prices and low interest rates make purchasing your first home sound like a great boost to your monthly budget!  There is much to consider: from down payments to paint, many factors of homeownership are different than when you are a tenant in someone else’s home, so you need to prepare now for a new home later.   

 

  • Begin practicing a budget now if you do not already.  There are more expenses involved with homeownership than there are as a tenant and you need to be able to manage your money properly. 
     

  • Check your credit score and correct any mistakes, if any, and do what is necessary to improve the numbers if your score is not going to be attractive to lenders. 
     

  • Learn about the different types of loans available to first-time home buyers. This will help you figure out how you will finance your mortgage as well as how much you need to save for a down payment. 
     

  • Once you go through the pre-approval process, you will know how much house you can afford, making house-hunting easier.  
     

  • Do you love your rental? If so, let your landlord know that you are interested in purchasing the property! They may not be interested, but once they become aware that you will be moving, the thought of preparing and looking for a new renter may encourage them to agree to a sale. All you can do is ask!  
     

  • Browse properties besides houses--many townhomes and condominiums are affordable and convenient and would make the perfect first home! 
     

  • Purchasing a newer house can save money in the long run, because of less up-front maintenance costs and newer houses are more energy efficient. 
     

  • Think about your community options--do you want to live in a managed community (HOA), a rural area, new construction in a planned community, or an older suburban neighborhood?  Each can affect how much you pay in fees, taxes, or maintenance costs. 
     

  • If you have renter’s insurance, and you should, you will note that a homeowner’s policy costs more, because it covers much more than just your belongings.  Most mortgages will include homeowner’s insurance in the monthly payment. If your current agent can find a cheaper rate, go for it! 

 

Think about the freedom to paint your living room firehouse red if you like or being able to have a noisy family dance party because there are no neighbor’s downstairs to disturb!  As soon as you are ready, your next step is contacting a Realtor® to be your guide during the whole home-buying process.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: ilookhome.com

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New Homeowners: Wait Before You Renovate!

Wednesday, March 10, 2021
by Scott Darling


Your new home charmed you as soon as you walked into the entryway, despite rooms with dark paneling, a pink tile bathroom, or a small galley kitchen. You knew you wanted to make some changes when you bought it, but is it worth the added stress, not to mention the stress on your new budget?  

 

  • - The home-buying process and moving are no small feats and undertaking a renovation can take another toll.  Give yourself a break before starting something new. 
     

  • - Getting used to living where you are could cause you to rethink your plans. For instance, you wanted a bay window to replace the two smaller windows in the dining area, but after feeling the hot afternoon sun shining in, you change your mind.  Little things like this are not noticeable from a few walkthroughs and virtual tours. 
     

  • - Many fixups are inexpensive and can tide you over until you make your final decision on whether to renovate or not: painting, fixing up the floors, or purchasing new furniture are all ways you can satisfy that itch and make the new house feel like your own. 
     

  • - Living in your home as it is for a while could show you that a major renovation is not needed at all! One room could simply need better lighting, or a closet you wanted to enlarge simply needs a few organizational pieces. 
     

  • - Continue the savings habits you adopted while saving for your down payment and other costs associated with your home purchase, and you can pay for your redo in cash, one step at a time! 
     

  • - Go ahead with your planned decorating! It is possible that you will find those renovations unnecessary once you have new furniture, draperies, and wall color. 
     

  • - Some renos cannot wait and are best completed before moving in structural work, full kitchen or bathroom re-do, large room addition, or changes to the layout.   

 

Patience is a virtue, and in today’s instant world, it is hard to wait for something you have looked forward to for months. Holding back on the revamping of your new home will not only teach patience, but it could save money and headaches for you! Architectural Digest covers other aspects of home renovation to consider.  

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: renosgroup

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The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist for Total Home Wellness

Friday, March 5, 2021
by Scott Darling


Whether you just bought your dream home or invested in a fixer upper, maintenance is a mandatory part of home ownership that’s not always completed properly. According to the national statistic on the Cash Value of Home Maintenance, every dollar spent on maintenance prevents up to $100 of repair costs. But still, even with this startling statistic, proper home maintenance can be overwhelming. A home is full of many moving parts that require consistent care and cleaning, both to operate properly and save you money.

To turn a daunting requirement into manageable pieces, we’ve broken down home maintenance tasks into monthly, quarterly, yearly and seasonal checklists. By being proactive rather than reactive, you can help make sure your home runs smoothly throughout the years and minimize the amount of repairs or claims you make over time. You can also check out books from home improvement experts to learn even more on how to care for your home. Keep reading to get a better grasp of what your home needs from you each month, and remember that when disaster does strike, Hippo has your back.

Monthly home maintenance tasks

While you may spend a few hours each Sunday dusting off surfaces and doing general cleaning, there are more unique items that require your attention over time. By taking the time for preventative care on life-saving items such as fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors, you can help prevent major accidents before they happen. And luckily, the payoff of these homecare tasks extend well beyond the amount of work required.

To keep your home running smoothly for the long haul, add these quick and preventative projects to your monthly cleaning checklist:

  • Clean dishwasher filter. Remove and clean the filter each month to keep your dishes sparkling clean, along with regular kitchen cleaning.
    • Time required: 15 minutes
    • Potential savings: $112/yr
  • Clean kitchen disposal. Throw some ice cubes and bleach into your disposal, and run until clear to sharpen blades and disinfect. Run again with orange peels for a fresher sink.
    • Time required: Five minutes
  • Clean dryer vent. Even with proper lint filter cleaning, lint can still build up in the vent over time. Remove the vent from the back of the dryer each month and vacuum out excess lint to prevent fires and boost your dryer’s efficiency.
    • Time required: 15 minutes
    • Potential savings: $1,669
  • Dust surfaces. Help prevent allergies and extend the life of your air filter by dusting off all surfaces in your home at least once a month, if not more.
    • Time required: 10 to 20 minutes
  • Inspect and locate fire extinguishers. Ensure fire extinguishers aren’t expired and are easy to access. If needed, go over how to use them with your family in case of an emergency.
    • Time required: Five minutes
  • Test smoke detectors. Check batteries in all your smoke detectors each month and replace if necessary, to give yourself peace of mind in case of a fire.
    • Time required: 10 minutes

"The average fire and lightning claim costs more than $68,000. Source: Insurance Information Institute"

  • Replace air filters. While it’s often recommended to replace your HVAC filter every month, it may not be needed as frequently depending on your dusting habits and pets. Make it a habit to check each month and replace when necessary.
    • Time required: Five minutes
    • Potential savings: $1,669
  • Test carbon monoxide detectors. Test your carbon monoxide detector to ensure it will alert your family in the event of a leak.
    • Time required: Two minutes

"Approximately 430 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning each year. Source: CDC"

  • Unclog drains. Drain buildup can sneak up on you and cause unsightly pooling of water. Use a snake or liquid drain cleaner to prevent buildup in all your sinks and shower drains.
    • Time required: 15 to 20 minutes

Quarterly home upkeep

As a homeowner, it’s important to keep in mind the more extensive tasks that need to be tended to every three months. While not as simple as the monthly chores, these quarterly cleanups are crucial to maintaining the indoor and outdoor function of your home. Many items in your home can get strained over time by constant use, so scheduling some time every few months to knock these tasks off your list can counteract some of that wear and tear. And when you see how long these items can last with a little TLC, you’ll be grateful you did.

  • Descale coffee machine. Follow manufacturer instructions to clean and descale your coffee machine to remove mineral build up and brew a better cup of coffee.
    • Time required: 30 minutes
  • Check water softener. Take a look at your brine tank to ensure salt levels are normal, and add more if necessary. This will help prevent hard water damage from occurring on your clothes and dishes.
    • Time required: 20 minutes
  • Clear out rain gutters. Remove leaves and other outdoor elements in your rain gutters to ensure proper drainage during the next storm.
    • Time required: 40 minutes to one hour

"The average claim amount for flooding is more than $42,000. Source: Insurance Information Institute"

  • Clean range hood vent. Remove and rinse off the vent above your stove top range to allow for better airflow when cooking.
    • Time required: 15 minutes
  • Run water in unused sinks and toilets. Flush rarely used toilets and run hot water through sinks and showers to prevent grime build up in your pipes, which will help prevent costly pipe repairs over time.
    • Time required: Five minutes
  • Wash windows and screens. Remove screens and wash them, as well as your windows, to get rid of dirt and bugs and keep your home looking new.
    • Time required: One hour

Seasonal home maintenance

In addition to the monthly and quarterly home maintenance chores, each season brings about it’s own challenges that need to be preemptively addressed for proper home wellness.

“As seasons change, our homes are exposed to different elements that can really affect the structure,” says Andrew Wynn, Director of Hippo Home Care. “Preparing for changing seasons in advance is a great way to save money and the stress of unexpected or unnecessary home repairs. You will prevent issues from happening in the first place and won't be competing, and paying higher prices, for tradespeople who come into high demand seasonally.”

From spring deep cleaning to protecting your home from summer hazards, keep the following lists handy throughout the year to help reduce strain on your home appliances and prevent big repairs down the line.

Spring

Spring is often associated with new birth and growth in nature, and it’s no surprise that the same changes tend to happen inside homes across the nation. Often a time for organization overhauls and deep cleaning of the corners of your home, homeowner care during spring will require some outdoor work as well. But it’s not all in vain. Rolling up your sleeves and getting to work with spring cleaning provides a major monetary payoff. Check off all the items on this list to ensure proper spring maintenance.

  • Check for mold. Areas with high humidity such as sink cabinets, bathroom tiles and sealant can be a breeding ground for mold. Make a point to routinely check for mold and clean any signs of growth, and hire a professional when necessary.
    • Time required: 30 minutes
    • Potential savings: $1,928
  • Complete lawn maintenance. Reseeding, fertilizing and regularly mowing your lawn helps boost the curb appeal of your home and give grass time to grow before the summer sun sets in.
    • Time required: Two to three hours
  • Trim trees. Cut back longer branches that extend over your home or other structures on your property. This will not only help maintain your tree health, but prevent any damages from fallen limbs during storms.
    • Time required: two to three hours
    • Potential savings: $7,750 in roof repairs
  • Paint over cracks. Check the internal and external walls for cracks or peeling paint. Give any nicks a fresh coat to prevent damage to the structure of your home.
    • Time required: One hour
  • Service HVAC units. Getting your AC system inspected by a professional each spring can help detect minor issues before they turn major, and ensure you’re comfortable in your home all year long.
    • Time required: One to two hours
    • Potential savings: $9,015
  • Power wash your home and deck. Cover doors and windows, then power wash the layer of dirt that has built up on your outside fixtures over the winter months.
    • Time required: Three hours

Summer

Summer maintenance is all about upkeep. While the warm weather may draw your attention to the outside portions of your home, it’s worth taking some time to inspect and repair indoor features as well. From DIY summer projects to money-saving preventative tasks, make sure to add all of the following to your summer to-do list.

"About one in 400 insured homes has a property damage claim due to theft each year. Source: Insurance Information Institute"

  • Check locks. According to alarms.org, burglary rates are the highest in the summer months. Take extra precaution against intruders by checking locks on doors and windows and replacing when needed. 
    • Time required: 30 minutes
  • Clean out the garage. Reorganize and sweep out dirt from your garage to allow for plenty of space should you need to protect your car from a sudden summer hail storm.
    • Time required: One to two hours
  • Check weatherstrips. Not only can this prevent pesky bugs from sneaking in under your door, but it can also help keep your home cooler and lower your energy bills. Make sure all weatherstrips are fully functional and don’t have any rips or holes.
    • Time required: 20 minutes
  • Wrap water heater. Place a water heater insulation jacket or blanket on your tank to lower utility costs up to 16% according to energy.gov.
    • Time required: 30 minutes
    • Potential savings: $1,118 in water heater replacement costs
  • Examine the sump pump. Malfunctioning sump pumps can lead to a water backup in your home and potential mold growth, so checking to ensure it’s properly pumping away water each summer can prevent damage to your home or basement.
    • Time required: 30 minutes
  • Spray for bugs. Summer is a breeding ground for bugs who are looking to escape the heat. Closing up any cracks in your walls and spraying insect repellent can help keep them away and prevent any future damage.
    • Time required: One hour
  • Install smart home tech. Devices such as motion detection lights, smart doorbells and cameras can help increase your home's safety and allow you to check in from anywhere.
    • Time required: One to two hours

"Smart home devices can protect your home from risks like fire, water damage and theft, and lower your insurance premiums."

Fall

Let preparation be your main focus throughout all of fall, as the extreme weather during upcoming winter months can cause severe damage to your home if not taken into account ahead of time. The steady temperatures of the season allow for ample time to finish up renovation projects and complete the few fall tasks required.

"About one in 50 insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing each year. Source: Insurance Information Institute"

  • Clean the chimney. If your home has a fireplace, hire a chimney sweep to clear out excess debris before making your first fire. This can help prevent potential damage to your fireplace and the inside of your home when using the fireplace.
    • Time required: One to two hours
  • Examine the fireplace. Another routine check of the fireplace itself before lighting your first fire can help prevent any smoke from entering your home as well as other potential hazards.
    • Time required: 20 minutes
  • Protect exterior plumbing. Insulation around all exterior plumbing fixtures can help prevent freezing or burst pipes once the temperature cools off.
    • Time required: 30 minutes
  • Inspect your radiator. Check the radiator and thermostat for proper function to help prevent cold nights waiting for a repair during the winter months.
    • Time required: 20 minutes
  • Winterize your AC. Towards the end of Fall, cover your AC with tarps to prevent water and snow from entering. This can help extend the life of your units.
    • Time required: 10 minutes

Winter

Taking care of your home after winter weather strikes and completing interior projects are the main categories of winter home maintenance. Cold temperatures and snow mean most outdoor projects that aren’t related to prevention are on hold, leaving plenty of time to play around with interior upgrades. To make sure your home can properly protect you throughout the season, complete the following chores each winter.

"About one in 40 insured homes has a property damage claim related to wind or hail each year. Source: Insurance Information Institute"

  • Check for ice dams or icicles. Use warm water or a de-icer spray to remove ice build up from your roof or sidings. This will help prevent damage to your home’s structure and damage to others should the ice melt suddenly.
    • Time required: One to two hours
  • Look for leaks. During warmer periods, check the basement or bottom floor baseboards for leaks and patch up holes before they lead to water damage.
    • Time required: 15 minutes
  • Inspect exterior for damage after storms. Checking and repairing damage as soon as it happens can keep the problem from getting worse over time.
    • Time required: One hour
  • Shovel snow. Keeping walkways and driveways clear of snow helps prevent accidents that your family (or others visiting your property) could sustain.
    • Time required: One to two hours
  • Stock up on supplies. On clearer days, make a trip to the grocery store to stock up on supplies in case a major snowstorm hits and travel isn’t possible for a while.
    • Time required: One to two hours

Upgrades for long-term home health

To take your home maintenance care to the next level, pencil in more unique chores and appointments on a yearly or five- to ten-year basis. Things like repainting, inspections and sealing driveway cracks don’t need to be addressed as often as the tasks above, but they can still make a major difference in the appearance and life of your home. Before diving into these tasks yourself, it’s best to take into consideration the time, potential dangers and cost. Hiring a professional can be helpful for bigger projects, especially those that require an expert eye.

Yearly

  • Check for infestations. Look for signs of termite or other bug infestations throughout your home, especially in less-frequented areas such as basements or attics. Bring in professional help to inspect and treat if needed.
    • Time required: One hour
  • Clean out heating/AC ducts. Hiring a professional service is your best move here, to ensure all dust, debris and moisture are removed from your ducts. This can help extend the life of your HVAC system and keep your home cleaner.
    • Time required: Two to five hours
    • Potential savings: $4,820–$9,350 in replacement costs
  • Vacuum refrigerator coils. The coils used to power your refrigerator can collect dust over time, reducing their utility. Vacuuming them (and the area behind your fridge) once a year can help reduce energy consumption.
    • Time required: 15 minutes

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Five- to ten-year upkeep

  • Seal driveway cracks. Cracks in your driveway are not only unsightly, but unsafe as well. You can repair minor cracks quickly with sealant and asphalt, though it’s important to note it takes time for these items to dry before they can be used.
    • Time required: One hour
    • Potential savings: $4,041
  • Get a full inspection. Home inspections aren’t just a step in the home buying process. Having a professional take a closer look at your home’s electrical wiring, foundation and structure every few years can help you understand how your home is holding up and what repairs might be coming.
    • Time required: Two to three hours
  • Recaulk. Check bathroom grout and sealant of windows and doors, recaulking as needed to prevent mold, save on energy and improve the appearance of your home.
    • Time required: 15 minutes
    • Potential savings: $80–125 in replacement costs
  • Paint the exterior. Over time, the paint on your home can start to wear from rain, wind and sun damage. Giving your house a new coat every few years can help keep it looking new for a long time.
    • Time required: Three to four days

Regular maintenance of your home can help prevent costly repairs over time, allowing for properly performing appliances and lower utility and energy bills. According to Wynn, it’s ultimately about being prepared. 

“Develop a home-specific, proactive maintenance routine and invest in the small things before they become costly, stressful repairs,” says Wynn. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!”

You invested a lot into your house, so make sure your insurance company takes care of your home like the priority that it is. Interested in switching coverage? Give Hippo a try and take advantage of our Home Care Maintenance service, with experts available to help you whenever you need.

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

By and photo credits: hippo.com

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Do I Need a Home Warranty?

Wednesday, February 24, 2021
by Scott Darling


Choosing to purchase a home warranty is something any homeowner, house hunter, and even seller should think about. While different companies offer home warranties, the purpose of a home warranty is generally the same. Let this guide help you decide if you need this service: 
 

  • A home warranty covers what homeowner’s insurance does not. When one of your home’s systems or major appliances breaks down or is damaged from normal wear and tear, a home warranty will help you with the costs. 
     

  • Homeowners pay a monthly fee, on average $300-$600 per year, according to Consumer Affairs. Most service calls through the company will require the homeowner to pay a set service fee to the technician when making a claim. 
     

  • A home warranty can be purchased at any time, which is great for someone who is selling their home.  Sellers can spend a good amount of money prepping the house for sale, and a warranty will help considerably if something breaks down during the selling process. Warranties can be transferred to the buyer, as well! 
     

  • A newer home may not necessarily need a home warranty, so stash an amount equal to a monthly warranty payment into your savings account!  You can build emergency savings and have the funds for unexpected repairs. 
     

  • Research home warranties for prices and coverage available. Your Realtor® will be able to direct you to companies they are familiar with, and you can trust you are working with a reputable home warranty company. 
     

  • Current homeowners who do not have a home warranty can find a company that is registered with the Service Contract Industry Council. Scroll to the “Home Service Contract Companies” for a complete contact list. 

 

There are so many different decisions to make when it comes to homeownership, it can feel overwhelming. Making good decisions depends on how much time you put into researching and asking questions.  Inform yourself by doing your research and having a discussion with your Realtor® and/or warranty agent to help make the best home warranty decision for your home and wallet. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: homewarrantyreviews

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Tax Benefits of Homeownership

Friday, November 6, 2020
by Scott Darling

When listing pros of owning a home in comparison to renting one, many think of things like lower monthly payments for the roof over their heads, the freedom to renovate or simply paint as they desire, or the opportunity to finally have a garden of their dreams. Tax benefits, however, are not something many consider; learn about some of the main tax-related advantages homeownership can bring: 
 

  • Tax deduction on mortgage interest:  when a homeowner’s mortgage is no greater than $750,000, the interest on that mortgage is tax-deductible. 

  • - In 2017, the IRS made changes to this deduction, reducing the mortgage limit. If your mortgage was taken out before December 2017 and is $1 million or less, this deduction applies to your situation as well. 

  • - Having a home equity line of credit (HELOC) that meets the above standards will receive the interest tax credit as well. 

  • - In case a homeowner has two mortgages that are each less than the $750,000 limit, but the total of those mortgages exceeds the limit, not all interest is deductible.  Learn more from the IRS Newsroom. 


  • When the home was purchased, were mortgage points used as part of the loan transaction? This may qualify for a tax credit. Use this handy worksheet from the IRS to determine eligibility. 
     

  • Many have used their homes for office space this past year, but not everyone qualifies for a home office tax credit.  Those who are independent contractors or self-employed are the only taxpayers allowed this credit. 
     

  • Your lender is required to include property taxes paid on the 1098 form they send at tax time.  Property taxes paid up to $10,000 are eligible for a tax deduction. 
     

  • If you are paying private mortgage insurance (PMI), the law to receive a tax credit for this has been reinstated as well as being retroactive. House Logic has more information about the changes and benefits. 
     

 

Do not miss out on these tax deductions!  Normally, hiring a professional tax preparer will get the most benefits for you if you give them all the necessary paperwork.  Keep in mind that using an online tax prep service will ask homeowner-related questions as you work through your return, and self-tax prep is generally less expensive, depending on the software company you choose.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: LA Property Solutions

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Fixing a Leaky Roof

Tuesday, October 13, 2020
by Scott Darling


Drip. Drip. Drip. It is pouring rain outside, and you hear that dreaded sound coming from somewhere inside your home. Grabbing the mop bucket to place under the leak will save you from a mess but drying the floor and putting the bucket close by for the next rainstorm is not where you need to stop. Leaving a leaking roof untouched can be detrimental to your health, home, and investment.   

 

  • - Sometimes you may not notice dripping water, but will see bubbling drywall or plaster, or simply a change in the color of the paint. 
     

  • - If you find a drip and have retrieved something to catch water, your next step should be to try and find where the leak is. Open the attic door, and with a flashlight, look around for the dripping water or wet areas. 
     

  • - Do not be tempted to place something to catch the water in the attic. The container can become too full and heavy, and come crashing through the ceiling. 
     

  • While a downpour or thunderstorm is not the time to go outside, once it is safe to do so, go outside and look up the roof’s slope from the area where the leaking was. 

  • -If it is not obvious, you may have to wait to create your own “rainstorm” with a water hose or call a pro to locate the problem. 
     

  • - If the leak is on a flat area of the roof, secure a tarp over the leak to stop more water from coming in.  Sometimes the leaks are around a vent or chimney, and those can be tricky, so you may not be able to make a temporary fix until the roofer arrives. 
     

  • Whether you DIY the roof repair or call a roofing contractor, the attic will need to be dried out.  

  • - Use a dehumidifier to absorb the moisture in the air coupled with a large fan to dry the area. 

  • - Inspect surrounding insulation and make certain it is completely dry before you put it back in place. If it has become compacted, it will need to be replaced with new insulation.
     

  • Leaving a leaky roof with a temporary patch, or worse, doing nothing at all can cause expensive and dangerous problems. 

  • - Mold and mildew can grow not only on the roof, but inside the attic, and possible down to the ceiling and walls. 

  • - Wood under the shingles and on the roof, joists can rot, causing an expensive replacement. 

  • - Drywall and plaster are not meant to be wet, and the moisture can cause them to become weak. No one wants collapsing ceilings or walls. 

  • - Water can get into the home’s wiring, causing copper wires to degrade, and in turn causing an electrical short or even a fire. 

 

As soon as a leak is discovered, repairing it yourself is fine if done correctly.  You may be pleasantly surprised at how easy it can be for a pro to stop a small leak, and the price of the repair will not be very high.  However, the cost of a professional making a repair to a leaking roof cannot compare with keeping your home’s largest and most important structure safe and sound as well as keeping your family safe and healthy. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: clear impact

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Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall 2020

Wednesday, October 7, 2020
by Scott Darling

Colder days will soon be here, so why not take care of a few maintenance jobs while the daylight hours are still long enough to get plenty accomplished?  Getting things ready for the Winter days ahead will be easy with these tips: 

Outdoors 

  • - Make it easier on yourself and rake or vacuum fallen leaves as they come down.  Mulch leaves for your compost pile or call your local waste management for curbside pickup.   

  • - Check trees for dead or diseased branches and trim them back.  As they go into their dormant phase, there is less chance for the diseases to spread after trimming. Call an arborist if the job is too daunting. 

  • - Many plant trees in the Springtime, but Fall is a better time. The tree’s roots do not have to compete with the heat, they get plenty of water from the Autumn rain, and can settle in and get established. 

  • - Dethatching the lawn is best done now before the grass goes into dormancy.  You will reap the benefits with a healthy lawn next Spring. 

  • - Before storing them in the garage for Winter, service and store the mower, string trimmer, and any other lawn tools you may use. 

  • - Inspect walkway and driveway surfaces, looking for cracks, and seal them with an approved sealant.  Snow and ice can cause the surfaces to bulge, causing a falling hazard. 

  • - Fall is a great time to paint the exterior of your home, thanks to moderate temperatures and lower humidity. 

 

Indoors 

  • - Have your heater serviced by a professional. Ask if they offer a yearly fee for a checkup on your unit at set times of the year; this could save you some money in the long run. 

  • - Check doors and windows for drafts, and seal with caulking or insulation strips.  Screens should be replaced with storm windows, if applicable. 

  • - See that your chimney is free of creosote to prevent fires.  A licensed chimney sweep would be the best for making sure your home and family are safe from chimney fires. 

  • - Now that it is not sweltering, venture into the attic and give it a good cleaning. Be on the lookout for any insulation issues, and replace or repair, if needed.  Be sure that pests cannot get inside and spend the winter in your attic! 

  • - Wash and/or air out heavy blankets and quilts to get them freshened up for use. 

 

Some of these jobs may seem cosmetic or unnecessary, but as a homeowner, it is more about being responsible.  Home maintenance--indoors as well as outdoors--is critical for protecting your home’s value, as well as for your comfort.   

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: insurancehub.com 

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Old House Elements Worth Saving During a Renovation

Thursday, September 10, 2020
by Scott Darling


Filled with wonderful character, old homes can have some characteristics that are not so loveable.  Many homebuyers purchase an old house with renovation in mind before they sign their contract. There are some elements in the aging structures, however, that should be left to restoration instead of demolition.   

 

  • Built-Ins  Unless there is serious damage to the pieces, leave the built-in shelving or window seating. Most built-ins are there to function in some way, and you will likely appreciate and use them once they have been restored. 
     

  • Molding and Doors Whether plaster or wooden, crown and window molding, ceiling beams, and baseboards should be revived in whatever way necessary to bring them to their former glory. Solid core doors are another item to keep and restore. 
     

  • Plaster Crumbling plaster looks awful and may be expensive to repair.  The folks at The Craftsman Blog point out the benefits of leaving and mending the plaster over installing new drywall. 
     

  • Original Windows  While energy-efficient windows are encouraged to most home remodelers, there are ways to save old wooden windows in a house and still save energy. Old House Online says getting an energy audit, insulating your attic, and weatherstripping, among other things, will make the old windows rival replacements. 
     

  • Fireplaces  Sometimes, homeowners rip out newer wall coverings and find a gleaming old fireplace hiding behind it. If you’re not interested in using it, have a professional close it in safely, and use it as a feature in the room. Otherwise, the same pro can likely bring the chimney up to code so the fireplace can be useful. 
     

  • Floors  Almost every old home has hardwood floors hiding beneath carpet, tile, or linoleum, and sometimes all three at once! They may look awful when peeling back the layers, but this type of old-growth wood cannot be found anywhere in modern times, and restoring them will be the best thing you can do for them.  

 

Other features you should consider keeping are wood siding, mosaic tile, exposed brick, porch columns, and lighting fixtures. If you see that you’d rather mix modern elements into the house, do your best to find someone who will remove the old items so they can be used by other old house renovation projects. Sell them outright, through a consignment shop, or donate to a Habitat for Humanity ReStore.  

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

Photo credit: clipart

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