Judith Sutton ABR CRS IDS PMN ASP IAHSP SRES GREEN
Judy@JudithSutton.com 908 803-0472
EXPECT MORE
HOME RENOVATIONS THAT LAST
Invited Guest Contributor M. Lerner
While not every homeowner or buyer has an unlimited budget, there are plenty of improvements that can be made at a lower cost
Here are some suggestions to consider when making improvements to your home:
The below-listed items are important in terms of sustainability and resilience to extreme weather along with saving money. In the long run, they will add value to your home.
EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE
Maintain the interior by maintaining the exterior. Clean your downspouts making sure they are free of debris and check that the building envelope is sealed. Make sure that your gutters empty the water flow far away from the house. This will minimize water damage.
PROPERLY GRADE YOUR LANDSCAPING
Sometimes when your neighbors change their landscaping, it can cause water to flow into your yard and home. Grading the foundation to slope away from the house is a lower-cost preventative measure that you should do to prevent damage.
TRIM BACK YOUR TREES
Roof damage is the number one most common insurance claim. Prune nearby branches and remove unhealthy trees too close to the house. This will allow more sun to reach the roof, allowing it to dry between rainstorms and avoiding mold issues.
INSTALL A RAIN GARDEN AND POROUS PAVERS
This will reduce the risk of flood and increase curb appeal to your home. Instead of using hard surfaces for patios and driveways, try using porous pavers which will allow water to sink into the ground instead of causing run-off.
ADD INSULATION
This will improve energy efficiency and resilience to extreme temperatures when added to the attic and basement.
REPLACING WINDOWS
Windows that let in air and moisture should be replaced with double or triple-paned ones for energy efficiency and strength in storms. The Fortified Home program provides guidance on windows and other strategies to improve resilience.
ELEVATE YOUR MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
Put some space between your indoor and outdoor air conditioning units, furnaces, water heaters, and heat pumps. This can save you money on costly repairs.
CHECK FOR CORROSION EVERYWHERE
Not only is corrosion unsightly, but it can be an electrical hazard. Things to check: Outdoor lighting fixtures, doorknobs, hinges, and outlets when they become corroded.
SPEND A HOUR WITH A PRO
Invite a Realtor over to check out your home. I will do this as a courtesy, but you will probably have to pay a consultation fee to a designer. A standard hourly fee for their services is normally less than $100, and in an hour they can give you lots of ideas for your needed improvements. Even small suggested improvements, such as paint colors or furniture placement, can go a long way toward improving the look and feel of your home. And of course, be more appealing to buyers.
Need more help or suggestions? Call me. I will be happy to help!
908 803-0472
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