Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time? How to Juggle These Two Transactions

There are few things that can be more stressful than buying or selling a home. When you are buying and selling a home at the same time, your stress level may understandably skyrocket through the roof. There may be financial aspects of both transactions that may be cause you stress, and you may be dealing with logistical issues or simply feel stressed by the stacks of documents piling up for both transactions. While this will inevitably be a challenging time in your life, you can more easily navigate through the transactions with success by following a few tips.

Consider the Timing of Both Transactions

One of the best things you can do when buying and selling a home at the same time is to plan ahead and consider the timing of both transactions. You may get lucky enough to get an offer on your home from a buyer who wants to close just a few days before you close on your new home. However, it is more likely that these two transactions may be finalized weeks or longer apart from each other. You may need to plan on finding an interim home or paying double mortgages for a period of time. You may consider which of these two options is more preferable to you based on your work situation, your family's needs and your budget.

Prepare a Budget Ahead of Time and Update It Periodically

Financial stress can mount during this period of time. You will need to make a good faith deposit and pay for third party reports and mortgage application fees for your new home purchase. You may also need to pay money to make repairs and to stage your current home before you list it. It is common to rent a storage unit and to pay for boxes and moving supplies as well. In addition, a buyer for your current home may request that you make repairs to your home before closing. It is important that you prepare a budget so that you can pay for all of these expenses as they arise, and you should consider leaving yourself ample funds for unexpected expenses. If you run into a cash crunch, consider completing the sale of your current home entirely before going under contract with your new home purchase.

Use the Same Real Estate Agent for Both Transactions

The knowledge and support of a real estate agent can be beneficial to you for both transactions, and you may consider using the services of the same agent for both. Dealing with one person who is familiar with your goals and needs can be truly beneficial to you throughout the entire process, and he or she may offer insight about the best steps to take to make the transition from one home to the other smoother for your family.

While buying and selling real estate can be stressful, you do not have to make the process more difficult than it needs to be. You can set up a time to meet with a real estate agent today to begin discussing your plans and to take the initial step. The realtor is trained in this situation and can see that it is a smooth transition for you and also knows how to protect you in the contract, as in not giving possession on your home for say 3-4 days after closing in order to get you a few days to move out of yours and into your new home before keys have to be given to new buyer. For more information about this type of transaction call me, Karen Rodriguez and I would be glad to sit down and go over all your options so you can make an informed decision on how you would like to proceed. 

 Message from Karen:

If you are thinking of selling, call me for a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling or both.  I give exclusive representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase or both.  I can supply you with a list of contractors. I would be honored and happy to help you. 

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Associate Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

Cell: 502-643-2255

Email: Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

Just Listed! 308 W. Main St., LaGrange, KY 40031 (MLS1415121)

Listed By:  Karen Rodriguez with Integrity Group Realtors, 502-643-2255

Just Listed this Spectacular, Renovated Victorian, 308 W. Main St. in La Grange which is on the National Historic Registry.  Own a piece of Elegant History and walk to shops and restaurants. 

Quick Details:

Address: 308 W. Main St., La Grange, KY  40031

Price:  $249,900.00

MLS 1415121

Sq.Ft. 1900

Bedrooms: 4

Baths: 2

2 Car detached garage

For more information or to schedule a private showing on this beauty, call or text me at 502-643-2255 or send me a quick email at soldbyk@gmail.com

 Welcome to this Spectacular, Renovated Victorian, 308 W. Main St. in LaGrange which is on the National Historic Registry. Own a piece of Elegant History. Remarkably restored, but full of modern day conveniences. From the moment you walk into the elegant entry, you are ''WOWED'' by the exquisite detail and character of this magnificent Victorian with its wrap around porch. Stunning foyer greets your guests with beautiful solid front door, transom and sidelights. Gorgeous stained woodwork & refinished Heartwood Pine Floors. Elegant Living Room or parlor, nonworking beautiful fireplace, floor to ceiling windows. Completely renovated Kitchen with an abundance of Hickory cabinets, fantastic appliances, onxy backsplash, lots of counter space. Oversize dining room with large

windows, beautiful fireplace, full length windows opens to the wrap around porch. Completing the first floor is a bedroom and stunning remodeled bath with cast iron claw foot tub with chrome feet. The second level continues with the beautiful stained woodwork and refinished Heartwood Pine Floors, 3 additional bedrooms including a master with a bonus room that could be a walk in closet, dressing area or personal office. Another exquisitely remodeled bath with travertine and marble. Laundry located on 2nd floor off rear exist with lots of windows and natural light. Newly built garage along with 1 1/2 year old Roof, Gutters and new privacy fence. This is the perfect historical gem to entertain in, with its charm, character and ambiance every guest will experience whether it is on the wrap around porch, interior charm or rear courtyard and patio. Walk to downtown restaurants and shops and don't forget the Award Winning Oldham County Schools. Call Today! Come fall in love.

Click here for Flyer:        

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

Cell: 502-643-2255

Email: Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

Click here to search                    Thinking of Selling?   

ALL available properties FOR SALE:                Click here to find your Homes Value.

Just Listed! 3633 Kings Church Road, Taylorsville, KY  40071 (MLS1411962)

                               Listed By:  Karen Rodriguez with Integrity Group Realtors

Just Listed in Willow Bend Subdivision in Taylorsville, Ky. Come experience the Fresh Air and Countryside!

Quick Details:

 Subdivision:  Willow Bend

Address:  3633 Kings Church Road, Taylorsville, KY  40071

Price:  $144,900.00

MLS:  1411962

Sq.Ft.

Bedrooms: 3

Baths: 1.5

For more information or to schedule a private showing, call me at 502-643-2255 or send a quick email at soldbyk@gmail.com.

Welcome to this serene country setting on .44/acre.  Beautiful 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath brick walkout ranch with stylish open floor plan,  great for entertaining.  Living room, dining area and kitchen open with huge island, great for gatherings or those special celebrations. Kitchen with oak cabinets, tile floor, island opening to dining area, perfect for those buffet style dinners.  Master suite offers large tray ceiling with his and hers closets and 1/2 bath.  Walkout lower level has HUGE family room with cozy creek stone wood burning insert and large laundry room with additional storage space.  Patio located outside lower level walkout.  2.5 car heated garage with electricity PLUS 2 car carport. This would make a great workshop area.  Large fenced rear yard.  Seller providing a 13 month Home Warranty.

Call Karen Rodriguez, Listing Agent, 502-643-2255, with Integrity Group Realtors, if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment to view or you are welcome to email her at soldbyk@gmail.com.

      Click here for Flyer.       

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

Cell:  502-643-2255

Email:  Soldbyk@gmail.com

Website:  Soldbyk.com

    Click Here!                      Click Here! 

  Just Listed! 10427 Edgewater Road, Louisville, KY  40223 in Plainview Place (MLS 1413352)

                               Listed By: Karen Rodriguez with Integrity Group Realtors

Just Listed in Plainview Place Subdivision. Absolutely elegant 2-Story with tons of Updates!

Quick Details:

Subdivision:  Plainview Place

Address:  10427 Edgewater Road, Louisville, KY  40223

Price:  $324,900.00

MLS:  1413352

Sq.Ft.:  2762 Sq.Ft. plus additional 1126 Sq.Ft. in lower level

Bedrooms: 4

Baths: 2.5

For more information or to schedule a private tour, call me at 502-643-2255 or send a quick email at soldbyk@gmail.com

Welcome! Pride of ownership awaits you the minute you open the front door.  Rare opportunity opens up to own this beauty as the owner is being transferred.  Updates include Champion Four Season Sun Room, 20x18 with custom blinds Zoneline heat/air conditioner, red oak laminate flooring and ceiling fan. Great place to entertain or curl up with a good book.

Updated kitchen with custom built top cabinet/drawer underneath of GE double oven (top convection over stand oven), custom built cabinet with drawer/roll out shelves underneath, Jenn Air electric control cooktop, Harvest & Quartz Hi-Macs acrylic solid Corian countertops with white 1/3-2/3 sink.  Moveable center island with oak raised panel wainscot, corian countertop, 2 outlets, Bosch dishwasher, GE microwave and an abundance of cabinetry.

Updated flooring throughout home. 1st, 2nd floor and basement.  Main floor with Guardian strip antique maple color hardwood and Colorado ceramic rose colored tile.  2nd floor has Natural Bamboo laminate & Topaz Cypress Tile.  Basement has new Shaw, stain and soil resistant Good Earth Carpet and pad.  

Replaced windows with Prestige Energy Star Climatech insulated glass windows.  

New Roof in 2009 with 30 year Oackridge Estate gray shingles, new felt, ice guard, drip edges, vents and flashing. Installed Montage steel ornamental fence on 2 sides with privacy fence on 3rd side. 

Front and Rear irrigation system with timer.

Tuff Shed 10x12 with work bench, window, skylight, shudders and flower bed.  Installed creative curb brick red concrete borders for flower beds, invisible electric dog fence for front and rear yard.

ADT security System

10" of Guardian fiberglass insulation in attic with baffles to rafter areas installed in 2011.

Basement (approx. 500 sq.ft of the 1126) has new carpet, 2 huge closets, painted concrete walls, only need drop ceiling, makes a nice entertainment room, exercise room with columns.

 This home has 2 units, one in the basement and one in the attic plus 1 in the All Season Room.

This owner is also offering a 13 month Home Warranty.  Is there anything this homeowner hasn't done? 

Call Karen Rodriguez, Listing Agent, 502-643-2255, with Integrity Group Realtors,  if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment to view or you are welcome to email her at soldbyk@gmail.com.

Click here for Flyer:   

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

 Soldbyk.com   Website

Three iPhone and Android Apps That Make Managing Your Mortgage Payments Quick and Easy

Your mortgage payment may be among the largest payments you make every month. While certainly an important part of your budget, this payment is also critical to helping you build equity in your home because it attributes to mortgage principal reduction. Managing your mortgage payments can be challenging, but there are some incredible apps available for use with Android or iPhone smartphones that can simplify your mortgage management tasks.

Mortgage Mentor

This app is available for both iPhones and Android devices, and is designed to be compatible with all types of mortgages. It can calculate PMI for adjustable rate and variable rate mortgages, and it can help you to determine the true cost of a mortgage. Through the use of this intelligent app, you can track your account information in real-time, or you can manipulate the numbers to help you to make more thoughtful and intelligent decisions about your finances.  This app is rated 4.5 stars and cost 1.99 in the app store.  It has Great reviews, check them out. 

Smart Loan Calculator Pro

This app is only currently available on iOS devices, but those with this operating system may want to download it today. It is compatible with Iphone, ipad and ipod touch.  It has some of the same capabilities as Mortgage Mentor, but it goes a step above and beyond by providing you with mortgage payment notification reminders. It also has a unique feature that allows you to set a final payoff date for your mortgage, and it will calculate how much money you need to pay per month toward your mortgage to accomplish this goal.  This app is rated full 5 starts, excellent rating and cost 2.99 in the app store.

Bill Payment Log

The Bill Payment Log app is a unique program that can entirely replace the outdated manual entry checkbook balancing task. It is suitable for use with iOS, Android and even Windows. You can use it to monitor and track payments for all credit accounts, including mortgages. While it does not have the analytical tools associated with some of the other mortgage apps, those who are looking for an all-in-one app that facilitates bill payment tasks for all accounts, this may be a great option to consider.

Making your mortgage payments on time is important, but you also may need to know if you need to pay extra each month and what the effects of that will be. You may also be concerned about "what if" scenarios for your adjustable rate mortgage. There are numerous apps available on the market today, choose one that best fits your needs and makes your life a little easier. 

Message from Karen:

 If you are thinking of selling, call me for a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling.  I give exclusive representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase. I can supply you with a list of contractors. If you were curious or wondering what your home is worth click on "What is my home worth?" and this will give you a range of value for your property. Thank you for following me and would love to be your go to person, for all your Real Estate needs. 

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

 Soldbyk.com   Website

Selling Your Home in 2015? Boost Your Resale Value with These Three Inexpensive Renovations

To get top dollar for your home, renovations may be necessary. However, some renovations can prove costly and they don’t always add value to your home. Here are three inexpensive renovations that are sure to improve the resale value of your home.

First Impressions Matter

Your home needs to have curb appeal. If the potential buyer doesn’t see that, it will be difficult to get the price you want. Spend money and time landscaping your yard. Pressure wash your driveway. Paint your front door. Make your porch look welcoming. If you do all of this yourself or with the help of family and friends, the costs will be reasonable.

After a prospective buyer is impressed by your nicely kept lawn, you will want to continue impressing him/her with your interior design. Buyers know what they want when it comes to the number of bedrooms and baths. You have something they want or they would not be looking at your home. Now, you need to keep their attention.

              

Freshening Up the Interior

Each room needs to be freshly painted in a neutral color. Old wallpaper and borders should be stripped and walls repainted. Make each room look larger by clearing any clutter. If possible, remove any unnecessary furniture and store it somewhere else. Have any carpets professionally cleaned, and be sure to polish any hardwood flooring. In the bedrooms, de-clutter your closets. Your kitchen and bathrooms should be sparkling. Clean and organize counters and cabinets. Again, most of these suggestions cost little but add great value to your home. The bottom line is the home has to be clean, clean, clean.

Upgrades

 When you think of upgrades, you many automatically assume major costs with little return. However, many upgrades may be within your budget. Consider making some of these affordable upgrades to your home. 

Living Areas/Family Rooms – If you’re going for a more elegant touch, add some crown molding. For a more rustic feel, add box beams. Improving the ceilings of main rooms will add value to your home.

Hardware and Fixtures – Painting and changing the hardware on your cabinet doors can change the look of a room dramatically. Add new fixtures such as lighting and doorknobs for a more updated look. 

Kitchen - Do you have a kitchen that needs updating or sprucing up or maybe that is why your are moving, you don't want to put the money into updating the kitchen.  Here are a few suggestions, try adding a nice backsplash, changing out the counter tops if you can, either paint the cabinets and change out the hardware or just change out the hardware, try putting a nice tall faucet as a focal point, you can also change out the kitchen light fixture will add character depending what you hang there. 

If you are unsure about just what to do to spend as little as possible before putting up on the market, please call me and I would be happy to walk through, no charge and help you determine if you need to do anything or just staging will help get it sold.  I will walk through and tell you what areas are very important to buyers and where, if anything, needs to be tweaked to spend the minimum to get the biggest return.  Also if you need anything done I can supply you with a list of handymen or contractors depending on what you  need.

If you are thinking of selling in 2015, March is the best time to be getting your home up on the market.  You want to position yourself to be the leading one in your neighborhood going up on the market, as the more homes in the immediate area start coming on the market, it drives more competition which will reflect in the price range you will receive.   If you have any questions at all, call me, Let's Talk!!

Message from Karen:

If you are thinking of selling, call me for a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling.  I give exclusive representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase. I can supply you with a list of contractors. 

This Blog was written by:

Karen Rodriguez, Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

 Soldbyk.com   Website

Buying a New Home in 2015? Three Tips on How to Get the Best Mortgage Rate

 Buying a new home is one of the biggest steps that a person can take. Prior to taking out a home loan, you want to ensure that you get the best interest rate for your mortgage. The lower your rate is, the less you'll pay over the long run. In today's blog post we'll share three key tips that will help you get the best possible mortgage rate.

Tip 1: Look For Special Programs

                                       

The Federal Housing Administration, better known as the FHA, offers a program designed for those looking at buying homes. This program lets applicants apply for loans and get access to better interest rates. The FHA guarantees that loan and agrees to pay off the funds if the borrower defaults.

The USDA can also help those interested in purchasing homes in rural areas. This can include farmland, ranches and homes located in smaller towns across the country. The USDA developed this program as a way to increase the population in certain areas.

Other programs are available through HUD, especially for those who never owned a home before. HUD is intended to help new homeowners buy homes in underdeveloped and up-and-coming areas. There are also special programs open for those who work as teachers, firefighters and in other positions that help the community at large.

Tip 2: Request Quotes

                                          

Not requesting quotes is one of the biggest mistakes that new shoppers make. Did you know that your interest rate can drop by a few percentage points or more just by comparison shopping? Lenders use different criteria when determining who can borrow money and the amount charged, and comparing those quotes ensures that you get the best price.

Many individuals think that applying for multiple loans will hurt their credit scores. Note that requesting quotes from top lenders is different than applying for loans and won't harm your credit or FICO score.

Tip 3: Improve Credit Before Applying

                                              

Speaking of credit, one of the biggest factors that determines your interest rate is your credit score. A higher credit score of 700 or higher will get you a better interest rate than if you had a score of 650 or less. Improving your score before applying is one of the best ways to get a good rate.  However with that being said, you can still purchase a home with a 580 credit score in certain scenarios. The lender has to look at your whole situation.  There is also a new loan out there that is a 580 credit score that if you are recovering from a foreclosure or short sale and meet a certain criteria they will lend with a slight higher interest rate, no prepayment penalty, so can refinance once good credit is established. If you would like to check this type loan out, text, email or message me and I will connect you up with that lender for more detailed information about that loan program. One of the lenders dropped that new program brochure, by my office, to help give folks a chance to get back into being a homeowner again. 

                  

Paying down your debt is an easy way to improve your score, but you can also pay your bills on time to get a better score.  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call me and I would be happy to connect you up with a lender to answer you questions, via phone, email etc.

Message from Karen:

With Spring just around the corner, if you are thinking of selling and purchasing a new home, I would be honored to help you make that happen. If you just want to see what is out there, click the red button below and you can search all the active properties for sale in Greater Louisville and ALL the surrounding counties.  

If you are thinking of selling, call me for a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling or investing.  I give exclusively representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase a home that needs to be tweaked. I can supply you with a list of contractors. Call me!

Karen Rodriguez, Broker

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

Soldbyk.com   Website

2015 and Kitchen Design: Three Trends That You Need to Be Aware of Before You Renovate

Renovating your kitchen is an excellent way to improve its look, increase the value of your home and appeal to a more diverse range of home buyers if you decide to sell. However, a kitchen remodel can easily cost $10,000 to $20,000 or more, which is why you want to make choices that you can live with. Learning more about some of hottest trends for 2015 can help you decide what you want and don't want in your kitchen.  These trends are everywhere and even in our Louisville Real Estate Market.

Traditional Is Back

Trends come and go, but the classics remain constant. One of the hottest renovation trends for 2015 is a more traditional look. Homeowners today are no longer attached to trendy colors and modern designs; they want homes that have a more traditional look and will retain that traditional look for years to come, another words a timeless design.  Home owners are electing to do the timeless look, with just a touch of whimsical or pop of color, that can be an easy change anytime in the future.

Check out 8 Kitchen Designs for 2015 from Decoratorswisdom.com, photo courtesy of site.

  

Experts predict that 2015 will bring a return to darker wood colors for cabinets, tables, counters and even floors. There are also some reports that homeowners will use oil rubbed bronze and darker pulls and handles on cabinets and drawers as opposed to flashy and contemporary chrome accents. Other trends include rustic farmhouse tables, double porcelain sinks and natural stone counters.

                                      

Going Green

It's hard to go anywhere today without seeing or hearing about green decorating trends, and those trends carry over into kitchens. Homeowners want products made from recycled materials and the chance to "go green" at home. Adding a recycling center is just one of the hottest trends for the kitchen.

Kitchens are the most energy hog of your home thanks to your refrigerator which is only second to your heating and air consumption. Then when you throw in all the other appliances, double ovens, dishwashers, trash compactors, microwaves and small appliances, you can see real quick where your kitchen can add a LOT to your energy bill.  First start by removing all those energy gobbling appliances. Then if you are thinking of remodeling, consider researching and complying with green building standards, such as EPA's Energy Star or Department of Energy's Building America which are between 30% to 70%  more efficient than the regular code.  This will certainly help keep more that your hard earned money in your pocket.                                                                                                                                                                          

 Check out U.S. Green's Building Council's, "Green Home Guide".  Remodeling your Kitchen, Why Go Green?

Designers also found that homeowners want counters and floors made from recycled or sustainable materials. Bamboo is a sustainable construction material that works well in flooring applications. Homeowners can also find counters made from old tires, soda bottles and other recycled goods.

Homeowners Want More Space

Ask anyone want they need in their homes, and the odds are good that many will say they need more space. Recessed lighting is one trendy accent that adds more space and reduces the number of fixtures and cords hanging down from the ceiling. Other ways to add more space include adding an island with storage to the center of the room and cutting down on the number of cabinets lining the walls.  Center islands are big for use of entertaining, storage and grabbing that snack. 

                                             

There are a number of trendy ways that you can renovate and change your kitchen. Going green, adding more space and bringing in traditional elements are just a few of those ways. Talk with a real estate agent about other changes you can make that will add value to your kitchen.

One of the biggest reason for some consumers to sell and purchase larger homes is more space. There is a lot more entertaining at home these days.  If you are not sure what to do and considering whether to remodel your kitchen or sell and purchase larger, ask your Realtor. They will be able to guide you through those difficult questions and have options either way.  If you don't have a Realtor, call me, Karen Rodriguez, Broker Associate with Integrity Group Realtors, I would be honored to help you come to the decision that is right for you and your needs. I have been in this industry for over 30 years including rehabbing properties myself.

 If you are thinking of selling, call me for a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs, buying or selling.  I give exclusively representation.  If you are not sure whether you want to sell for fear of not finding that perfect larger home, click on the Search All Area Listings properties below and start searching the areas and see what is out there. I do have a list of contractors whether you decide to remodel or purchase a home that needs to be tweaked. I can supply you with a list of contractors. Call me!

Karen Rodriguez, Broker Associate

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

Soldbyk.com   Website

Prevent Icy Drafts with Our Easy Three-step Guide to Weatherizing Your Windows

In the cold winter months, you'll probably want to be outside enjoying the snow when you get a chance – perhaps building a snowman or having a snowball fight with the kids. However, you'll get cold, and you'll want to come inside to your well-heated home. While you may have dealt with insulating your attic, walls and other areas of your home, if you've neglected your windows you may find that they become a source of very cold drafts.

In today's blog post we'll share a quick three-step guide to weatherizing your windows which will keep you warmer and help to prevent wasted energy and high heating bills.

Between Window Frames and Walls

The first step to weatherizing your windows is to check for spaces in between the window frames and the windows. You can often see any gaps clearly as they will allow you to see straight outside. If you're dealing with small gaps you can use caulking as a temporary solution. If you're dealing with larger gaps, you'll want to have professionals come in to repair or rebuild the wall.

Between Window Frames and Windows

If you have windows that can be open and closed, you're going to need to check these to ensure they seal tightly and that the weather-stripping hasn't worn away. Weather-stripping is typically sold in rolls, and most types have at least one adhesive side so that you can quickly apply it to your windows and frames. Note that there are different types of weather-stripping on the market, so be sure to purchase a type that will work with your windows.

                                                        

The Window Panes

The window panes themselves can be used to your advantage. On sunny winter days, you can open the windows and let the sunshine in to warm up your home. At night, close the curtains or blinds to help make a sort of insulation to keep out the cold. The thicker the curtains or drapes are, the more they will help insulate your home and prevent heat loss through your windows.

                                 

The benefits of weatherizing your windows will serve you well past this winter if done right. Don't forget that doing the opposite with curtains or blinds in the summer will help keep your home cool, and the value of a house goes up when these kinds of details are covered. When you're ready to sell your home, be sure to contact your real estate agent and they'll be happy to assist.  If you don't have a Realtor to work with, call me, Karen Rodriguez, Broker Associate with Integrity Group Realtors and I would be happy to help any way I can.

 If you are thinking of selling, call me for a FREE home evaluation in your neighborhood, from staging, pricing, housing values, interest rates, how appraisers are valuing properties, now that the guidelines have changed. I would love to sit down and talk with you. Just call me and let me know how I can help with your real estate needs.  Thanks!!! Karen

Search All Properties For Sale                                              What is the value of my home? 

Karen Rodriguez, Broker Associate

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

Soldbyk.com   Website

Tankless Water Heaters: The Pros and Cons of Going Tankless In Your Home.

 Large water heaters are unsightly appliances that home-sellers would rather hide. Although it's not always possible to banish these structures, it is possible to replace them with a version that is not as overbearing. Tankless water heaters have the potential to make one home stand out amongst the competition, but they do have some disadvantages along with the benefits.  So lets compare hot water heaters. What water heater should I buy?

                                                      
Pro: Tankless Water Heaters Use Less Energy

Traditional water heaters continuously heat water that is just sitting in the tank, and this requires energy. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, do not heat the water until someone needs it. Therefore, they are more energy-efficient and cost less to operate.

                                  

 Pro: Tankless Water Heaters Last Longer

Traditional water heaters will need to be replaced after about a decade, but tankless water heaters can last much longer. If someone is planning on purchasing a home with a new tankless water heater, he or she would not have to think about replacing it for about 20 years.

 Pro: Tankless Water Heaters Are More Space Efficient

The typical traditional water heater is 24 inches wide and 60 inches tall. Tankless heaters save a lot of space because they are generally only 20 inches wide and 28 inches tall. They open up a lot of space, and this impresses buyers greatly.

Con: There Is Less Available Hot Water with Tankless Heaters

Although a tankless heater can provide a home with hot water only when it is needed, the amount is limited to a few gallons at a time. This will mean that more than one occupant in the home cannot take a shower at the same time. They will definitely not be able to do this while they run the dishwasher or the washing machine.

 Con: Tankless Water Heaters Are Typically More Expensive    

Tankless water heaters cost around $1,000 while the traditional version only has a price tag equal to $300 or $400. While this higher up-front purchase cost is a con, if you consider that a tankless water heater should last longer than a traditional heater you may end up saving a bit over time. Hope this helps with your decision on which way to go.

If you are thinking about purchasing a home or are selling the one you currently own in 2015, contact your real estate agent for more information. If you don't have a real estate agent to represent you, I would be happy to help you achieve your goals.  If you are thinking about selling your home this year and you think it needs a little updating to appeal to that special buyer, please call and I would be happy to walk through your home and give you suggestions to get the biggest return on your investment.

To search all properties for sale, click here!       OR     If you are wondering what you home's value is, click here!

Karen Rodriguez, Broker Associate    

Notary, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-Pro, GRI, SFR

Years of Experience! Experience the Difference! 

(502-643-2255) Cell

soldbyk@gmail.com  Email

Soldbyk.com   Website