Articles Tagged "Home Maintenance"

You're ready to sell your home, so you've been weighing just how much you should put into repairs and upgrades so you can get a good price. Perhaps you're unsure which kinds of upgrades are likely to pay off when you're bargaining with a potential buyer. Here's where knowing something about ROI, or return on investment, can help boost the sale price of Beavercreek homes for sale, including yours.

Read on for some good advice from our REALTORS®.

What Does ROI Mean?

You've likely heard about ROI. You know it's got to do with how much you invest in a renovation and how much you can ask for it when you're selling your home. But does investing in a renovation mean you can recoup the outlay when you're ready to sell? Mmm, not necessarily.

Here's the formula. The contractor charges you between $1500 and $3500 for the installation of insulation in a 2000-sq. ft. attic. This is, by the way, one of the best improvements you can make for selling your home, but we'll get to why in a moment. Anyway, the price will depend on whether you are leaving old insulation in place or yanking it all out before you install the new. It also depends on how accessible your attic is, and other factors. Let's say your cost is $3000. Your real estate agent says you can increase the selling price by $3500, with $500 as your investment gain.

Subtract the cost from gains. Then divide that $500 gain by the original cost. That/s $500 divided by $3500, which equals a 14 percent return on investment. Hey, congratulations. You made money.

Well, maybe. Unfortunately, the money we put into renovations doesn't necessarily come back in full when we sell our home. Here's a bummer of a stat: homeowners generally recoup only 64 percent of their outlay for a renovation. So says Remodeling Magazine.

The fact is, renovation ROIs can be great or not so much. So the key is knowing which ones are best to invest in. In general, lower-cost renovations tend to pay off better. Here's a list of ROI recommendations:

1. Bigger isn't better. Forget about adding that master bedroom at $250k. It won't pay off; you can expect to recoup only 57.2 percent of the costs.
   
   
2. Lower-cost projects rule, giving better returns. Remodeling Magazine lists four projects costing less than $5000 that are among the top five when a house is sold. The top-returning renovation: attic insulation.
   
   
3. Energy-efficient renovations shore up ROI. And one of the top energy-efficient renovations is new fiberglass attic insulation.
   
   
4. Safety pays off. Another top renovation is safety features, such as a steel entry door, or new garage doors.
   
   
5. Small kitchen projects help sell a home. It doesn't have to be big improvements; even small jobs like replacing cabinet hardware can help you sell. Or, if you want to do a minor kitchen remodel, it could return about 83 percent of its cost.

Here are some additional projects that will help you sell your home.

1. Landscaping: Can return on average 100 percent of your investment.
2. Minor bathroom remodel: Could return an average of 102 percent.
3. Deck/Patio/Porch addition: Can return an average of 90.3 percent. 
4. Major bathroom remodel: Could return an average of 93.2 percent.
5. Replace windows: Returns an average of 89.6 percent.

Got questions on ROI you'd like to discuss? Contact Wright-Patt Realty today.

Have you thought about transforming your outdoor space into a living space? No need to add on another room; extend where you live and enjoy eating, drinking, and just being in the outdoor area of your property.

If you've already done so, maybe it's time for an upgrade, as our long Ohio winters can take a toll on our home's exterior areas. It may be high time for a redo of your patio or outdoor dining area/kitchen. What's more, if you're thinking of listing your home among Beavercreek homes for sale, an upgrade will help boost your home's value.

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Spring is the time of renewal in nature, so why not take on some renewing home improvement projects with the change of season? Maybe you've just moved into the home you chose from Beavercreek homes for sale, or you've been in your home a while, and are thinking about what to do to attract buyers when you list it. Whatever the reason, make the most of our nice spring weather and get going on some easy home improvement projects.

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Ready for a remodel but don't know where to start? We feel your pain. In fact, our real estate staff works with home shoppers and sellers to improve their properties among Beavercreek homes for sale, and we are often asked for advice on the topic. So read on and let our REALTORS® share some of their suggestions for getting a handle on home improvement projects.

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Did you recently move into your dream home among Beavercreek homes for sale? If you're like other homeowners in the neighborhood, you're probably looking forward to spring. What better way to say hello to spring than with a little spring cleaning? 

Spring cleaning is a great way to feel lighter as you unburden your home of things you really don't need anymore. But getting rid of things is not the only way to launch into spring cleaning. Read on for some tips to help you enjoy your home this spring and all the seasons to come.

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A fireplace can bring comfort and warmth into your home. It can also bring tragedy and devastation if you are not careful with this fabulous feature. Our REALTORS® wish you and your family many memorable gatherings and happy holidays around the hearth which is why we strongly recommend adhering to these six fireplace safety tips.

1. Professionally Clean & Service the Fireplace
   Chimney fires are a leading cause of home loss. Professional chimney sweeps will remove the creosote that causes chimney fires. This byproduct of combustion sticks to the chimney walls and requires special tools and training to remove effectively. Further, make sure that the fireplace is well-maintained. Promptly repair any damaged flues, doors, or other components that could pose a hazard to the home.

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Wouldn't it be nice to keep the temperature of your home more comfortable this winter and save money on your heating bill in the process? Whether through home improvement projects or simple, smart tips for saving energy around the house, there are plenty of ways to save money on heating during the coldest months. As a bonus, some of the best tips for reducing your heating bill will also help you eliminate drafts and make it easier to keep your home at just the right temperature. Our REALTORS® are here to help you get started with five tips for reducing your heating bill.

1. Have Your Furnace Serviced Every Year
   Besides the fact that you definitely want your furnace to be working at its best when the cold weather comes, having your furnace serviced annually helps save on heating bills. An experienced pro can check for any issues with your heating system, make sure it's working at maximum efficiency, and help ensure that you have a cozy, comfortable winter. After your furnace is serviced, don't forget to replace the filter every month or as often as is recommended by the manufacturer.

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When you've made the decision to sell your home, our REALTORS® can help you get it ready for the market and will no doubt provide suggestions on any repairs, improvements, etc. that need to be made. One of the most important tasks will be ensuring your appliances are in great working condition. An old or faulty HVAC system can grind the sales process to a screeching halt, so you want to make sure that it is in optimal condition and ready for your home's sale.

Here are signs that your home's air conditioning system needs maintenance, repair, or replacement.

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Pools are a great way to keep kids entertained during the summer, and hot weather has already made an initial appearance in the area. You may be tempted to either have a pool installed, or to purchase a home with a pool. While our REALTORS® know a pool can provide hours of fun for the whole family, it's not a decision you want to dive into without considering all the costs, responsibilities, and liabilities that a pool creates.

• The first consideration is cost.
  If you plan to install a pool, you can expect to spend an average of $35,000 for a decent pool. That's a lot of tickets to the local pool, and if you plan on paying with cash, it means less money for other things. If you plan on financing the cost through a HELOC or other loan product, your overall cost could be as high as twice the installation cost.

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With longer days on the horizon and more time at home lately, it's time to get your home in shape and ready for the onslaught of summer heat. Summer is a time for relaxing, which can make it difficult to motivate yourself to complete those projects you've been putting off for months. That's why our REALTORS® have created this list of tasks you can complete in the spring.

• Prep Your Kitchen and Bathrooms
  As the new season approaches, it's time to give your kitchen and bathroom a fresh start. Keeping an eye on tile surrounds and sinks can help prevent costly water damage and repairs. Clean appliances, unclog your drains and replace any leaky faucets.

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As you're preparing your home for sale, you'll need to make sure it's in good condition for potential buyers. Your roof will be inspected before the sale, so if it has problems, it's easier to detect them in advance and decide what to do about them. In some cases, repairs won't be effective enough and your roof might need replacing this summer. This could make your home much more attractive to potential home buyers, since they're unlikely to want to buy a home with roofing issues compared to other Beavercreek homes for sale.
 
Our REALTORS® suggest looking for these five signs your roof might need replacing this summer before you put your home on the market:

1. Your roof is near the end of its lifespan.
   With proper installation, care, and maintenance, a roof can last for decades. However, even under the best of circumstances, it can't last forever. Your roof's longevity depends partially on the material that it's made from. Asphalt shingles, for example, last about 20 to 25 years if it's the only layer of roofing material. If it was installed over an existing layer of shingles, it should be replaced at least every 20 years.

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Some homeowners relish house cleaning. It can be invigorating and a good way to clear your head. Other homeowners prefer to ignore the dust bunnies and pretend the oven is self-cleaning. But every homeowner could use a system to determine what areas need cleaning and how often they need care. Washing dishes or vacuuming seem fairly easy, but there are some cleaning chores that should be done regularly, if not as often. If your home is to stand out among the Beavercreek homes for sale, open your calendar and find a spot for the following chores on your schedule soon. 

1. Launder your living room. If your throw pillows have removable covers, remove and clean them according to the directions on the label. Remove the couch cushions and vacuum up any dust or crumbs that may have fallen between the cushions. Inspect all upholstery for stains. The University of Missouri Extension office has a guide to stain removal for all washable fabrics. Spot clean rugs and carpets. You may also wish to rent a carpet cleaner.

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After closing day on Beavercreek homes for sale, new homeowners have lots of choices to make. Whether to get a home warranty is probably low on the list – but it's one of the first things you'll have to think about.

Our REALTORS® have heard from many satisfied customers that before the month was over, they ended up with half a dozen home warranty offers. Yes, the right one can save you money, but it's vital to make an informed decision.

So, in honor of Home Warranty Day on February 10, we're here to answer all your questions.

What is a Home Warranty, Anyway?

If you've never heard of a home warranty, you're not alone. Although they're easily confused with homeowners insurance, they're not the same thing.

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It isn't only the color of the leaves that changes when fall's chilly fingers spread across the region. If you plan to promote your property as the best of the best among Beavercreek homes for sale this autumn, you'll need to change your maintenance plan to match the season. As the weather cools down and the leaves start to fall, the following are steps that will help your property stand out:

• Take Summer Photos
  Add summer photos to the listing to show prospective buyers how the landscape looks when grass, flowers, and trees are at their best and brightest.

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Our REALTORS® know today's buyers want a move-in ready home. That means major repairs or updates can be a deal-breaker or cause your home to sell for less than it should. If your home is in need of updates to any of these things, before you sell is the time to do it.

1. Roof. An aging or failing roof will strike fear in the hearts of buyers. Everyone knows that water damage can cause big headaches and thousands of dollars of damage. It can even mean that there is water damage, mold, or rot that can't be easily seen or detected. Replacing a roof is considered home maintenance so neglecting it can have an effect on how buyers perceive your home.

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Beavercreek homes for sale are consistently some of the most sought-after in Ohio. A fast-moving real estate market creates a lot of opportunities for home sellers. Still, sellers must find ways to differentiate their property if they want to get the best price during their sale. Our REALTORS® can help you use real estate trends to your advantage to make more money when you sell. Our knowledge of the area will equip you to stand out from the start.

In Beavercreek and beyond, more buyers are looking for one thing: energy efficiency. The benefits of energy efficiency are especially appealing to first-time homeowners. Many first-time buyers are especially sensitive to the costs of homeownership. They recognize that if they can save a few hundred dollars per year on energy costs, it will boost their budget.

Likewise, more people are taking an interest in reducing their carbon footprint and helping the environment. After all, the natural world is just as important here in Ohio as it is anywhere else! The big question for sellers is this: What's the best way to increase efficiency? Just like any other home renovation, you don't want to break the bank—but you do want to make a difference.

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Spring cleaning rises to an entirely new level when you're preparing to sell your home. You will need to do more than wash the windows, clean the carpets, and sweep out the garage to attract bids from buyers perusing the listings of Beavercreek homes for sale. There's plenty of work to do and there is no time to waste. If you want your home to appeal to buyers, then the following are some things you need to take care of.

Interior Spaces

You'll want to fix any leaky faucets, repair any damaged appliances, and clean the furnace. You should also replace batteries in smoke detectors, inspect/replace fire extinguishers, and repair any damaged or malfunctioning electrical outlets. While some sellers choose to replace old appliances and upgrade dated lighting fixtures before listing, a better option is to leave these on the table as negotiating chips. Doing so allows prospective buyers to choose the appliances and fixtures that match their vision for the home.    

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The foliage of autumn has faded, and summer greens are long gone. That doesn't mean that you have to settle for drab and dreary this winter when it comes to your home's curb appeal, especially if you are trying to sell your house. Our REALTORS® know that a potential buyer's first impression of a home is crucial and can make a difference in their perception of the house as a whole. Investing a little time and effort with these simple tips can yield impressive results in how your home looks to the outside world 

Start With the Basics

• Safe and Clean Walkways and Steps: Keep your walkways, steps and entryway clear of snow, ice and debris such as leaves and limbs to make guests and buyers feel welcome and safe when approaching your home.
  
  

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Our REALTORS® love showing off amazing Beavercreek homes for sale any time of year.

However, if you come from a place where winter snow is a novelty – or a myth – then you might find yourself concerned about Ohio snowstorms that visit us from time to time.

Remember: Every year, millions of people weather the storm without any injuries or property damage. That said, it's a good idea to go into the situation prepared and know what to expect. After you get through a snowstorm or two, you'll be an old hand at the process.

To keep your family and your home safe, remember these valuable tips:

1. Start With a Winter Emergency Kit
The most intimidating possibility in winter is finding that you can't get out to get the supplies you need. Roads may become impassable due to snow or for other reasons. With that in mind, get a kit together to meet all of your needs.

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If the prospect of updating your home feels a little scary, don't worry you're not alone. Some home improvement projects can make even the bravest buyers cringe. However, with a bit of creativity and a few minor upgrades, you can makeover your home relatively quickly and inexpensively. Our REALTORS® understand how frustrating renovation can be, so we've put together a few ideas that can take your home from oh-so-dreary to warm and inviting. 

1. Lighten Up!
   One of the simplest ways to add flair to your home is to update your lighting. New fixtures can make a world of difference, and they're available in a huge variety of styles and finishes and at prices for nearly any budget. Consider adding light fixtures or lamps in areas of your home that don't get enough natural light, and to highlight art and decor.

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Clients often ask our REALTORS® if an inspection is really necessary when buying a new home. The answer is simple: absolutely. A thorough home inspection can potentially uncover hidden defects and save you from sinking hundreds of thousands of dollars into an unsound home. It's absolutely essential that you get one, especially if you're buying an older house. 

That being said, some home inspectors have some pretty surprising blind spots. Here's what a basic home inspection might miss – and what you can do about it.

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Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal at These Garden Centers

Whether you're preparing to sell or simply want to love the landscape that you come home to every day, the Spring season is the time to get your garden ready in the Beavercreek area. Understanding which plants thrive in our area is the first step, and knowing where to find the best garden centers in Fairborn, Ohio will help you find what you need to add some outstanding curb appeal to your home this year. Our REALTORS® have the details on what grows well in our area, and where to find the best garden centers.

Our Area Is Part of Planting Zone 6A

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Tips to Sell Your Beavercreek Home 

If you're gearing up to sell your home, you're probably facing that big question: Should you renovate first, or try to sell it as is? On one hand, many Beavercreek homes do sell better if they've had some work done, but not all home improvements necessarily translate to a higher price point.

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After a long winter, spring officially arrives on Tuesday, March 20.  With the bright sun and warm winds comes the realization that winter has been torturing our homes' exteriors.  After a quick perusal, many homeowners find cracked sidewalks, leaf-filled gutters, and dead plants all around. Before you even start planning your gardens, checking these items off your spring maintenance checklist will ensure you have time to go outside and enjoy the outdoors. Our REALTORS® recommend these five tips to get your Beavercreek home ready for spring.  

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Keep Your Beavercreek Home Warm This Winter

Ohio can get pretty chilly this time of year. Icy winds and sub-zero temperatures can easily foil your plans to tour Beavercreek homes for sale. You'd probably rather go home and stay out of the winter weather. That's a great idea. And if your home needs a little work to make it a bit more warm and cozy, there are plenty of projects to keep you busy. Most of them don't require you to go outside.

Our REALTORS® live and work in the Beavercreek area. We love Ohio, but we also appreciate the warmth of home. If you want to keep busy and stay warm, check out our 5 Home Improvement Projects to Warm Up Your Ohio Home.

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Snow storms are simply a fact of life in an Ohio winter, and it's important to be ready for them!  Even if you aren't in one of the major snow zones around Ohio, it's always a good idea to be ready in advance for whatever the season might throw at you. The sooner you get prepared, the easier it'll be to adapt if a big storm seems to roll up out of nowhere.

Let's look at some of the best ways to "winterize" your home for a storm:

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Keeping Gutters Clean Is Essential to Protect Your Home

Cleaning your gutters is one of the small but critical tasks on your endless list of homeownership responsibilities. Gutters require year-round attention to prevent damage to your home. As homes in Beavercreek take on the weight of autumn's falling leaves, the resultant debris can cause clogs, water backups, and drainage problems.

Proper gutter maintenance is worth the time and effort. Your home is your biggest investment and timely gutter cleaning can help you preserve its value. Our real estate agents offer these tips to help you through the process.

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