April Issue

Important Questions To Ask Your Home Inspector

When purchasing a home, home inspections often put the buyer’s mind at ease and may allow for renegotiation. An inspection also gives buyers an opportunity to opt out of the sale if major problems are discovered. Here are some important questions that buyers should ask their home inspector.

1. Are you a member in good standing of a professional inspectors organization, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI)? (Some states require a license).
2. What is your specialty? If the inspector only has training in one area and has no other expertise, the inspection may not be comprehensive.
3. Do you have references? How long have you been in business and how many inspections have you performed?
4. What advanced technology do you use? (i.e.-infrared camera, ultrasound machine).
5. What exactly does the inspection cover? (i.e.-plumbing, heat, electric, structure, alarms, sewer, foundation).
6. Can we accompany you on the inspection?
7. Do you carry all necessary insurance, including professional liability, general liability, and errors and omissions insurance?
8. Does the report include estimates of repair costs?
9. Do you offer a written guarantee on the inspection?
10. What type of report will I receive, and when will I receive it?

If there is a specific area of concern, hiring a professional who specializes in that area may beneficial. Also, be aware that there may be a conflict of interest if the home inspector also offers to perform repairs.

Contact contact Nancy Orlando if you have any questions about home inspection.

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Spring Cleaning Tips

Spring cleaning is a seasonal tradition that can give your home a boost as you gear up for summer. It is also a good time to replace the batteries and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Here are some tried-and-true items that may need your care this spring.

1. Organize your seasonal storage, whether it is a shed, garage, attic or basement. Display the outdoor furniture and stow away winter items like holiday decorations, salt, snow shovels, sleds or pool cover.
2. Store winter clothing and have your warm weather attire easily accessible. Donate any articles that you do not wear.
3. Power wash or paint summer outdoor furniture that may appear dingy.
4. You may want to hire professionals to clean indoor carpets and upholstery for a thorough job.
5. Clean your windows inside and out.
6. Change the door mats for the season. They are your last line of defense against dirt and are an inexpensive way to spruce up entryways.
7. Dust blinds, light fixtures, and under beds and furniture.
8. Steam, dry clean or vacuum your curtains.
9. Wash and wax floors to protect them against wear and tear.

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MSN Lists What To Do With Your Tax Refund

1. Pay down debt on high-interest credit
2. Create an emergency fund to sustain you for three months
3. Save on car insurance by paying the premium in full
4. Make home improvements to qualify for tax refunds next year
5. Invest in a retirement account

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