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Should You Tint Your Home's Windows?

Wednesday, June 9, 2021
by Scott Darling


Window tinting, or filming, can be a budget-friendly way to take your home’s windows to a higher level of energy efficiency, especially if it is not in the budget to upgrade all the windows in your home.  Learn more about this alternative to new window installation: 

 

  • - Window film comes in three types: decorative, privacy, and solar. 

  • - Decorative films are just that--for aesthetics. They are not necessarily energy efficient. 

  • - Film in the privacy/security category is made of a thicker material than decorative, and its purpose is to keep prying eyes out of your home, as well as help keep glass together in case of breakage. 

  • - Solar film is made in different ways, but the sole reason homeowners have it installed is to reflect or absorb UV rays. Some more costly films will work both ways--reflecting and absorbing UV rays--so your home and energy bills benefit from the changing temperature needs of your home.
     

  • - Other varieties include removable/reusable film, semi-permanent, and permanent. Your window’s film/tint depends on the type of window and needs you may have. Learn more with a free e-book from the International Window Film Association. 
     

  • - Many electric companies offer a rebate when a homeowner installs energy-saving window film. There is also a federal tax credit for making your home more energy efficient! 
     

  • - Added benefits to using window film in your home’s windows are protecting furniture, carpets, draperies, and even wood flooring from the damaging long-term effects of UV exposure. 
     

  • - In case you have newly installed windows, check your paperwork, or call the manufacturer, as adding window film to the glass can void the warranty. 
     

  • - Window film is available at home stores and online, and there are many DIY instructions online, so it can be done yourself. Application does require some patience; if done in a hurry, you can leave unsightly bubbles throughout the film or uneven trim around the window glass. When hiring a pro for this job, you may receive added protection from some film manufacturers with an offer of a lifetime warranty on their product when it is professionally installed. 
     

  • - When purchasing the type of film, you want to apply to your windows, make certain the product is certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council.   

 

Protecting your belongings and energy consumption from the effects of the sun’s rays coming into your home can be taken care of with window film, but again, make sure the correct type is installed. Whatever your reason for applying film to your windows, rest assured it is a less expensive process than installing all new windows and can even be more cost effective when it comes to making your HVAC system use less energy. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Green Valley Window Tinting 

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Seller's Guide to a Smooth Showing

Friday, June 4, 2021
by Scott Darling


Your home has been spruced up inside and out with fresh paint on the walls and mulch on the flowerbeds, and you and your family have worked hard to declutter and deep clean to show off all the great features to house hunters. The job is not done, however!  When your RealtorⓇ calls to alert you to a showing there are still some important things you should do: 

 

  • The typical amount of time before a showing is 24 hours, so take advantage of that time to make certain everything is spotless and neat. Cleaning and keeping the house clutter-free should be part of your daily routine, so a quick-clean should not take long. 
     

  • Making your house smell great can easily be overdone.  Appeal to the masses with light citrus or herbal scents. The more natural, the better. 
     

  • All valuables should be in a secure location:  lockbox, safe, or locked file cabinet.  Include personal mail, medications, and anything else you do not want prying eyes to see.  Some potential buyers look at everything, and you do not want your privacy compromised. 
     

  • Spot sweep obvious dirt on hard floor surfaces, and quick-vacuum carpeted rooms, working from the farthest point of the room to the door, and do not walk on the carpet after you have finished.
     

  • Make sure the temperature in the house is comfortable.  Your family may like a cool home, but 70° is perfect for most people. 
     

  • If you are leaving just before the showing, turn lights on in each room, and open the blinds.  This not only keeps your agent from having to do it, but it shows the buyers each space in its best light. 


  • Will you be at work when the showing is scheduled? Go over everything the night before and plan on taking twenty to thirty minutes the next morning to make sure everything is perfect before you walk out the door. 

 

Remember to be flexible during this time of your life.  Be prepared for many weekend showings, so have plans in place to make the best of your own weekend time.  You want to sell your home, so be its best advocate; the brief inconveniences outweigh the result! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: WSJ

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Summertime Water-Saving Tips

Thursday, May 27, 2021
by Scott Darling


Now that the weather is warming up, thoughts of lounging by the pool are on the horizon, and it is time to wash winter grime off the car, and clean winter linens and clothing for storage. While all of those are important things to do, conserving water is important this time of year, and there are lots of ways to save! 

 

  • When the car needs cleaning, take the bucket and sponge to a car wash instead of washing it at home. This could save one hundred gallons of water per wash. 
     

  • If you have a sprinkler system, set the timer for morning or evening. Pay close attention to the weather and turn off the timer whenever a good chance of rain is predicted. 
     

  • Use a drip irrigation system instead of sprinklers or hand-watering with the hose for your veggie garden and landscaping. This allows water to soak directly in near the roots. 
     

  • Growing native plants and grasses will help cut down on water usage, as they are adapted to your local climate.  Contact your local cooperative extension agent to find out how to plant a native plant garden. 
     

  • Trees and large shrubs can be hydrated efficiently by placing a five-gallon bucket with small holes drilled in the bottom nearby and filling the bucket with water. The holes will allow the water to trickle slowly, soaking the ground and roots--not the leaves. 
     

  • Use a pool cover on the pool to help keep the water from evaporating. There are plenty of ways you can conserve while enjoying your pool. 
     

  • Shortening your shower time by just two minutes per day saves 150 gallons of water per month! 
     

  • Bathe fresh veggies in a bowl filled with water instead of under running water.  Once they are clean, use the leftover water for houseplants or potted plants outside. 
     

  • Keep a pitcher filled with water inside the fridge for a thirst quencher instead of running water from the faucet and waiting for it to get cool.  

 

Not only will your bank account appreciate some water conservation, the environment benefits as well. If you are interested in learning more about using less water year-round, check out the Water Calculator website to get an idea of your water footprint, and learn how to use it more efficiently. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Solar Fire 

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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for April 2021

Tuesday, May 18, 2021
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for April 2021

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales increase by 218.5% in April 2021 when compared to April 2020. 561 homes sold in April with a median sales price of $409,381.  The average days on the market fell by 24 days. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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Home Improvements: What Adds Value

Tuesday, May 11, 2021
by Scott Darling


Most homeowners have some DIY projects or simple upgrades on their to-do list, from installing new gutters to sprucing up the landscaping.  Something that does not always come to mind while getting those items done is adding to the home’s value. Not every home improvement increases the value of a property, whether they are a necessity or not.  

 

  • Landscaping Keeping your yard trim and weed-free does not decrease or increase your home’s value, but when it is time to sell a home, neat landscaping is a must. The one outdoor project that could increase the resale value of the home is constructing a deck. 
     

  • Flooring This is a personal choice, but if the homeowner knows that they will sell in the future, the cost of refinishing or adding hardwood flooring will come back to them in the sale.  Installing the floors could be a long-range DIY job but hiring a pro for a refinishing job is the wisest thing to do. Think of it as an investment, not an expense. 
     

  • Roofing Keeping the roof in sound condition is considered regular maintenance, so putting on new shingles because the homeowner would like a new color will not add value.  Installing a metal roof, on the other hand, could add value to the house, depending on the location. 
     

  • Home Systems Installing new plumbing or HVAC, or upgrading electrical are all considered maintenance, and no matter the cost, will not add to the value of the house. 
     

  • Remodeling Kitchen and bathroom remodels are your best choice for a project that will pay you back upon the sale of your home. 
     

  • Swimming Pool Putting in a pool is simply a personal choice.  Rarely does an added pool or spa put money in your pocket in case the house is sold. 
     

  • Additions Adding a sunroom, garage or home office will not necessarily give a good return on investment. An extra bedroom, however, is a good choice, but must be built to certain specifications to qualify as a bedroom in real estate terms. A reputable builder knows the requirements necessary for the extra space to be considered a bedroom, so choose wisely. 

 

Nolo.com has some excellent information on projects that are worth the cost in home value, as well as other home improvement tips.  When in doubt, do some research, and give your RealtorⓇ a call, as they know exactly what you need to do--or not to do--to get the most out of your house. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: Boston Herald 

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Home Repairs and Maintenance for New Homeowners

Friday, May 7, 2021
by Scott Darling


Calling the landlord or apartment superintendent when something needed repair was the norm as a renting tenant, but now that you are a homeowner, there are simple skill sets that do not require a call to your local handyperson! All you need are a few tools and the willingness to learn something new!   

 

Basic tools needed: claw hammer, screwdriver set, adjustable wrench, plunger, drain snake, tape measure, stud finder, plier set, putty knife, and a handsaw.  These tools will help you in making simple repairs. 

 

Plumbing Finding your water main shut-off is one of the first things a homeowner should get familiar with. Other water-related things that can be done easily: replacing an O-ring in a leaking faucet, unclogging drains, installing a new showerhead, and repairing a running toilet. The Family Handyman covers other simple jobs that do not need an expensive call to a plumber. 

 

Electricity  While an electrician is best for complete rewiring, many homeowners switch out old light fixtures or change them to ceiling fans on their own! Probably the most important thing to know about your new home’s electricity, however, is getting familiar with the circuit breaker box, and knowing how to turn them off or reset them. 

 

Wall Repair  Most homes have drywall, and accidents happen, so DIY repairs are a must. Plaster walls can be a bit trickier, but for minor problems, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/walls/21016734/how-to-fix-damaged-plaster 

 

Painting DIY television shows make painting a room look simple, and while that may be, there are more steps to achieving a well-done paint job than using a good quality paint roller. 

 

Home Safety It is imperative to know how to safely use a fire extinguisher as well as how to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 

 

Cleaning the HVAC Unit This simple job can make a big difference in how well your unit runs and it saves money because you are doing it yourself.   

 

Yard Care After years of apartment living, many new homeowners simply do not know how to keep their grass trim or maintain a lawnmower! Bob Vila offers some great mowing tips for a great-looking lawn. 

 

So many small fixes can be handled by you and your family as you learn to take care of your new home! Sure, you are protecting your investment, but knowing you can tackle some of the “small” stuff gives great satisfaction, knowing you are taking care of your family and your home. 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: HouseLogic 

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Items Every Chester County PA Homeowner Should Have

Tuesday, April 27, 2021
by Scott Darling


Becoming a homeowner usually means becoming a do-it-yourselfer, even if there are no plans to take on a major renovation. There is almost always a small job to do or an emergency that can be taken care of by having the right things standing by. What basic tools and other items does a homeowner need? 

 

  • Fire extinguisher Visit the USFA to see what type of extinguisher is needed for the kitchen, workshop, or multipurpose fires. 
     

  • Portable safe Secure important papers, valuables, and other important items in a portable safe. This could be quite an investment when upgrading to fireproof materials or digital passcodes, but valuables and irreplaceable items need to be protected. 
     

  • Cleaning items This seems obvious, but a good broom and dustpan, bucket, microfiber cleaning cloths, “shop rags,” and a flat mop are all that is needed to keep a home sparkling. 
     

  • Simple tools: A hammer, heavy-duty scissors, screwdrivers, hex key tool, measuring tape, handsaw, and more; all of these things will make a homeowner’s life much easier when they need them. 
     

  • Emergency kit FEMA offers a build-your-own kit list with everything necessary for an emergency. 
     

  • Heavy-duty extension cord Do not use an indoor-rated cord outdoors. A cord that can handle a large capacity of electricity and bad weather conditions is best. 
     

  • Wet-dry vacuum Having one of these handy can save clean up time from a dishwasher leak, or spilled nails on the floor.  
     

  • Ladder A sturdy stepladder or six-foot A-frame is best for smaller jobs. Find out what ladder is best for the job. 
     

  • Lawn and garden tools Besides a garden hose, mower, and string trimmer, every homeowner with a yard needs a leaf rake, shovel, pruning shears, and a wheelbarrow. 

 

Not only do homeowners need physical items for upkeep, learning how to do different jobs in the home saves money and builds confidence to handle regular maintenance, which could lead to bigger things! With the right tools on hand and a little know-how, being able to care for a new home is a great satisfaction without a price tag! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: SafeAuto

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Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for March 2021

Wednesday, April 21, 2021
by Scott Darling

Chester County PA Real Estate Market Trends for March 2021

Chester County PA single-family homes saw pending sales increase by 36.4% in March 2021 when compared to March 2020. 556 homes sold in March with a median sales price of $415,000.  The average days on the market fell by 29 days. 

If you are thinking about selling your home get a free instant home evaluation Learn More. 

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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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Tips for New Construction Buyers

Friday, April 9, 2021
by Scott Darling


If you are searching for a turnkey home with the latest smart technology, energy efficiency, and modern floor plan and materials, you will want to investigate new construction.  Of course, buying a brand-new house has some differences than the purchase of an older home.  New construction has all the things on your wish list, but there are a few things new house hunters need to be aware of. 
 

  • - You will need a buyer agent to represent you. The builder’s agent will be looking out for their client--not you. 
     

  • - Go through the pre-approval process but shop around for the loan that fits your needs.  If the builder’s lender has incentives and discounts, take advantage of them if it will benefit you in the end. 

 

Ask the builder: 

  • - How many lots and homes have been sold, how large each lot is, and how much space is between houses? 

  • - What is the length of the home’s warranty, and what does it cover? 

  • - How much input does the buyer have in choosing paint colors and materials for flooring, kitchen, and bathrooms? What is the policy if the builder runs short on chosen materials? 

  • - Is smart technology wiring included in the basic home package, and is wiring to all bedrooms an extra expense? 

  • - What appliances are included in the basic price? 

 

  • - Keep in mind that the model home you are shown has all the bells and whistles! Never assume you are getting everything in your home that the model shows. Ask about these features and write everything down as you get answers. 
     

  • - Talk to residents who are already living in the community, and ask them about any concerns they have, and what they love about their new home. 
     

  • - Do not skip the home inspection just because it is new construction. Be sure your purchase contract allows you to hire an inspector outside the building company. 
     

  • - If the model home is one of the last homes left in the neighborhood, ask about buying it! You may not get every finish just as you would like, but you can paint a room or change the flooring! 

 

Be aware that the builder makes their main profit on upgrades and will do their best to convince you that you need that “free” entertainment package or other “gifts” they may offer. If you are a DIY-buyer, leave the custom closets and finished storage areas for later. Saving money on the purchase price of your new home is your most important goal, but you must do some “home” work first! 

 

Courtesy of Chester County PA Realtor Scott Darling.

 

Photo credit: moving.com

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