One of the most important aspects of building a new home is choosing the right heating and air conditioning unit. If the right unit is selected, it can make a dramatic impact on your overall heating and air bill during the life of your home. In addition, you want to find a unit that will evenly heat and cool the home so the entire home is comfortable from one end to the other.
What Furnace is Best?
A high efficiency furnace is critical when it comes to picking the right unit to heat your home. Selecting a unit that offers at least 90% efficient is critical. Many builders opt for a cheaper heating unit that is less than 90% efficient to cut corners. However, this can negatively affect your home and heating bills for years to come.
A good builder will choose a 92% to 95% efficient furnace to give you the highest quality of furnace possible. How do you know if you have a high efficiency furnace? The PVC pipe will be sealed to prevent air leakage. This lends to the unit being as efficient as possible.
In addition, the return on the furnace should have properly taped seams. Without this important step, cool or warm air will escape and decrease the efficiency of the appliance.
Where Should the Furnace Be in My Home?
The furnace should also be strategically placed in the middle of the home. This prevents the unit from being forced to push air from one end of the house to the other. By having it in the middle, the air can be distributed evenly and not put undue stress on the appliance.
If you have a two story house, you have two options of how to ensure the heat and air are evenly distributed to your home. One choice is to put a complete unit on each floor. This will make sure each floor is properly heated.
Another option is to use an electronic damper system. This will put a thermostat in several rooms. Each thermostat will open or close vents in your furnace. This allows you to generate more heat or cold to whatever area of the home you choose.
A high efficiency heating and air unit is crucial to finding the right unit for your home. By selecting the right unit and strategically placing it in your home, you are well on your way to having an evenly warm or cool home with as minimal cost as possible.
As we continue in our series on the many steps involved in building a house, the importance of plumbing cannot be underestimated. Poor plumbing can mean major problems now and for many years to come. By taking the time to properly install your pipes with proper installation is the key. Considering what type of water softener your home will need is important, as well.
Properly Insulate Your Pipes
Once your pipes are three to four feet underground, they stay a consistent 65 degrees. If, however, there are some pipes that are exposed to an outside wall, you need make sure they are wrapped so they are properly insulated and able to withstand the low winter temperatures they will endure. This is particularly important on a wall that faces the north. In a case like that, double insulation might be worth considering and certainly worth the extra cost.
Improperly insulated pipes will bust and cause an incredible amount of damage to your home. Insulating your pipes is not a corner you want to cut. Properly insulated pipes are a fundamental part of good plumbing. In addition to the insulation you put around the pipes, you also want to make sure you plug up any openings to prevent any drafts that could also freeze the pipes, as well.
Water Softener
You need to decide early in the building process if you want to put a water softener in your new home. This type of system puts salt into your water to help create softer water. This process removes large amounts of minerals. It makes things like showering or even washing your clothes an easier, more effective process. With lots of minerals in your water, creating a cleansing lather with soap is difficult. The minerals can also be left on your body or in your clothes and cause ill effects.
On the other hand, when it comes to things like watering your lawn or your drinking water, a water softener is not a good thing. The salt in the softer water is not good to ingest for plants or animals, humans included. For that reason, it is important to have a system in place that allows for both regular water and a softer water option. This involves creating two routes of water: one for your drinking water and one for your yard.
Insulating your pipes is important to prevent damage down the road in your new home. Also, picking the right water softener is important. A water softener, however, is not appropriate for every household task. For this reason, there should be two lines that allow for softer water, and the more natural, harder water. Proper planning of your plumbing is an important step of building a home.
There are a multitude of decisions to be made when building a house. One important decision that can impact your home for years to come is the electrical components. While it might not be a subject you are extremely enthusiastic about, it is vital to the functionality and safety of your home.
Electrical Wiring
Do a walk-through of your new home during the building process and determine where you will put your plugs and switches. Also figure out where you want your overhead lights, if you want ceiling fans, and any other related electrical features. It is important to determine this now to save pain and frustration later.
All electrical wires run through a device called a “home run.” The wires go down into a junction box. The wires that are above the home run are called “spaghetti.” They get their name from the fact there are frequently a number of wires running through a home run. The resulting wiring above the home run actually looks a bit like spaghetti.
Make sure nail plates are in place. This is a metal piece that goes over the frame where the electrical work is threaded. This not only protects your electrical work, it also protects you if you would pound a nail through the dry wall and into the frame of your home where the electrical work is. Not all homes have this important safety feature, but make sure yours does so there are no tragedies down the road.
Insulation
While most people realize that traditional insulation, such as large sheets of fiberglass insulation, are important, there are also other areas that need plugged up during the building process. Anywhere small holes may be present, such as spots for electrical wiring or an electrical box, use expanded foam. This small amount of foam insulation prevents cold air from seeping into the home from small areas you might not expect.
Ceiling Fans & Lighting
While it is possible to install a ceiling fan after a home is built, it is even better to put the proper reinforcements in during the building process to have as secure of a ceiling fan as possible. Bolting the fan to the ceiling joist gives it a firm and secure fit. This prevents any wobbling or the fan from even falling on the home occupants. A great time to determine where you want your light to radiate into your home is when you build your home. The builder will place “cans” that give that particular area the structure and form that it needs for the proper lighting.
Breaker Box
Make sure you label what each breaker goes to in your breaker box as soon as possible. It makes fixing problem breakers much easier down the road. It cuts out the step of trying to determine exactly where the problem is and allows you to fix it as quickly as possible.
Also make sure you leave some blanks in your electrical box. This allows for future expansions in your home and gives you an appropriate spot to put new electrical lines in the future if you need to do so.
There are a number of areas in your new home that you need to consider when it comes to electrical wiring. A few quick and easy decisions early in the building process will do much for a smoother transition as your home progresses.
It is impossible to keep a home dry all the time. With the weather elements of rain, snow, and whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw at your home, keeping your home dry in key areas should be the focus. There are a few places: the foundation and the basement, which can be disastrous if they get wet and moisture gets trapped.
A shifting foundation and a moldy, musty basement are just a few problems moisture in these two key areas water can create. Check out a two all important steps in building a strong, moisture proof home that you don’t want to overlook, as we continue our series on building a home.
Flashing
The process of flashing your home keeps water out of foundation of the house. It also keeps water out of the basement. This flashing process prevents long term water damage from destroying your home. Not all home builders do it but it’s crucial for a well-built home.
Flashing is a thin layer of waterproof material that prevents water from seeping into places it does not belong. This is mainly for larger gaps outside of the home. Smaller gaps can be filled in with caulking. Flashing, when done correctly, should be installed so no seams face uphill. It also usually layered with other building materials.
If you wonder whether flashing has been installed the proper way, follow a drop of rain water as it moves down the side of your house. It should be carried from surface to surface all the way down and never encountering an open seam or an upturned lip that blocks its progress.
Tarring
While flashing is a critical element of keeping your home’s foundation and basement moisture free, tarring also adds this element. The process of tarring creates a water barrier that keeps water and dampness out of your home. This is frequently done early in the process of building a home, shortly after the foundation is laid. If tarring is neglected, however, it can spell disastrous results for the long term future of your home.
Want a waterproof foundations and basement? Spending the extra time required to do flashing and tarring to your home during the building process is crucial. If these steps are skipped, your home will not be set on the firm foundation it needs.
Nearly all roofs are framed using one of two methods: either the standard “stick” framing or newer “truss” framing style. Truss-framed roofs are built from triangular-shaped, pre-made truss units. The stick-framed roofs, on the other hand, use individual rafters that span from the top of exterior walls to the ridge.
Truss Roofs
The roof trusses are used to frame the roof. Trusses are pre-made, triangulated wooden structures used to support the roof. In many cases, the dimensions of the roof can be input into a computer and the computer program will dictate the sizes and spaces of the various parts of the roof should be, including the trusses. A truss is one contiguous double rafter and ceiling joist unit. Truss construction is just as strong as the stick frame method, but is lighter weight and uses smaller sizes of lumber. Gable and hip roofs are built primarily of trusses. Like wall studs and floor joists, rafters and trusses are spaced about 16 or 24 inches from center to center. Most roofs use 16-inch spacings for strength and rigidity. The rafters are usually positioned directly above the wall studs.
Since trusses are carefully engineered units that shouldn’t be cut, they are not a good choice for roofs that could be modified at a later date. Because they have several intermediate support members, they also don’t allow for the proper use of the attic space.
Stick Frame Roofs
Roofs with dormers or on houses with cathedral ceilings, attic rooms, or attic storage areas, are usually stick built. Stick framing creates a triangle between the rafters and ceiling joists. A collar beam adds strength in the middle. The builder will usually figure what the load must be, which determines the positioning and spacing of the beams.
Baffles are placed in the roof area when utilizing the stick building method to provide proper ventilation for the attic. This prevents the attic from becoming too hot and also prevents trapped moisture from causing rot and decay.
It is important to make sure that whatever style of roof you choose is installed properly so the house can be well-supported and ventilated. Proper installation will also prevent any problems with the dry wall being level once you install it. With the right planning and know how, building a roof that withstands the many demands that is placed on it is possible.
As we continue in our series of building a home from the ground up, we will talk about the importance of key points in the structure of the home that can literally make or break a house. While these things will go unseen once the home is completely built, their absence would surely be noted if they were not present. They are literally what the weight of the home is resting on.
Headers
When you have an opening, such as with a door or a window, you must have a header for support. It needs to be strong enough to carry the load above it. Headers take the weight of the materials and occupants above and transfer it via the trimmers down to the floors and foundations below. The longer the opening, the larger header it requires. Bearing walls (those that carry the weight of joists and trusses) require larger headers than nonbearing walls.
Posts and Beams
The posts and beams support the overall frame of the house. The beam runs horizontally and supports the weight of the house and must be strong. The post runs along the house vertically and is planted firmly in the foundation of the home for support.
Floor Joists and Cross Bracing
Floor joists are slightly smaller than beams and aid in supporting the structure of the home. They are horizontal and run from wall to wall, wall to beam, or beam to beam in support of a ceiling, roof, or floor. Floor joists alone frequently fail under a heavy load. To combat this problem, cross bracing is often used between the floor joists. Typically the cross bracing is done approximately every eight feet.
Cross bracing can be made of either wood or metal. They should be installed before installing the subfloor. This ensures the floor joists are properly spaced. It will also help with the subfloor installation. Some builders leave cross bracing out, yet it is an important element of a well-built home.
While these things might seem minor when you view a house being built, they are in fact an absolutely essential part of the structure of the home. If these areas are poorly built, the home will not be strong. Therefore, finding a builder that puts the appropriate emphasis on the headers, posts, beams, joists, and cross bracing is crucial.
A well-built home has many components that happen in places you may never see. The foundation is the core of the home and can make all the difference between a well-built home and a poorly constructed one. Building a secure home takes advance planning of things that your home might encounter, like high winds and cold temperatures.
Anchor Bolts – The First Step to a Firm Foundation
Once the foundation is laid, anchor bolts are put down to securely hold the foundation in place. Anchor bolts themselves are used to attach objects or structures to concrete. They are an essential component to a secure fit on the foundation.
The anchor bolts are firmly secured with a treated plate and usually put directly into the concrete slab while it is still wet. Once dried, these bolts will be solid into the foundation. Frequently, local building codes will determine exactly where these anchor bolts must be located.
Wind Braces Prepare Your Home for Any Type of Weather
Once the foundation is bolted down, a plate is put up and then the studs. The vertical studs hold the roof up and the second floor, if there is one. Then wind braces are put in to protect the home and the foundation for intense weather that might threaten the security of your home’s foundation.
Wind braces are diagonal braces used to tie the rafters of a roof together and prevent racking. Many builders leave this important step out to save time and money but it is an essential component of a well-built, secure home. The wind braces are structural members that stiffen the structure against the forces of the wind. They can be timber or metal, strut, or a tie.
The best way to build a wind brace is from wood. The process is to cut it into the vertical two by four studs and nailing the wind brace directly to the wall. The brace prevents racking or any other type of shifting the home might be prone to due to high winds or other unexpected weather.
Foam Boards – An Extra Layer Warmth in Your Home
Once the wind brace is in place, the builder can then put a foam board over the top of all the wood. It creates a thermal barrier. This barrier prevents the cold from coming through the ply wood, through the two by fours, then through the dry wall, and ultimately into your home. This provides a thermal break in your home. This foam board is not standard with many buyers but it is crucial to a well-built home.
There are many important components to a well-built home. A few that are crucial to the building process are put directly into the frame of the home. They protect from the home shifting and being impacted by unexpected weather.
You know those spine-tingling breath-taking make your heart melt fairy tale love stories? Well this house has one, only it really happened, and YOU can supply the happy ending if you are in the market to purchase a house, or know someone who is.
It’s a common belief that there is an enormous difference between ad “house” and a “home.” The story behind this property, located at 10438 Madison Street, was a spark that was bright enough to turn this house into a home, already full of love.
The story begins over 20 years ago when Leah, a child with Down syndrome, moved into the house with the rest of her family. Shortly thereafter, another child in the neighborhood, Mark, who also happened to have the same condition, befriended Leah. They were inseparable, until a few years later when Mark was forced to move to Texas due to his parents’ careers. Sadness and heartbreak ensued for both Leah and Mark.
During this most recent Christmas, Mark showed up at Leah’s doorstep – a Christmas miracle? Perhaps. Regardless, Mark shared the news that his parents were being transferred back to the Omaha area, and he wanted to stop by and visit Leah. At this moment it became apparent that Leah and Mark were destined for one another. Even after nearly 20 years, the two emanated a feeling of love that couldn’t be denied by anyone in the room.
Mark had been living in a community home specializing in the care of adults living with Down syndrome in Texas, called Down Home Ranch. Arrangements were made soon thereafter for Leah and Mark to be married, and live as a happy couple at Down Home Ranch. Then, it was all a matter of time before they were man and wife.
The story doesn’t end there. As an even larger gesture of love, Leah’s parents decided to pack up and move down to Texas and act as a local support system for the two newlyweds. Even after taking out an additional mortgage, contributing sweat and money into a second addition on the home, and maintaining perfectly good careers in Omaha, Leah’s parents, Mike and Cindy, sacrificed it all to show their love and support.
This isn’t some ploy to get a buyer to fall in love with the house – let’s be real, it may be a magical love story, but is it enough to sell a home? The answer is: it is just an even larger indicator that the home with bring good fortune, especially with a brand new addition, beautiful granite countertops, tons of space (four or five bedrooms) and a full rec room and media room… incredible!
This house probably doesn’t even need an amazing story of love and sacrifice to help get it sold, but it anyone who has a heart can see that Mike and Cindy are people who are willing to give up everything for people they love, and who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by good karma like that?
This story just goes to show that true love is never lost, and people are good at heart. Help this family out by taking a look at their amazing property. Furthermore, donations are always needed and welcome at both Down Home Ranch (http://www.downhomeranch.org/), as well as the Omaha Down Syndrome Parents Network (http://www.odspn.org/).
As always, if you have any question at all, or are interested in the home, feel free to contact me by phone (402.680.2500) and anytime by email at bill.black@cbshome.com.
Building a Home Part 3 - Preventing Water Damage Before Your Home is Built
Few things can ruin a home quick than unwanted water. It is important to build a strong defense against water seeping into your house when you lay the initial foundation of your home. There are a few fundamental things that are done while a home is being built to prevent water damage from causing harming your home in the coming years.
Water Prevention on the Ground
There are two ways water can get into your home: water coming from the outside (for example, through a rain storm or a water hose) or from the ground up. When water comes in through the ground up, it comes up through the floor. This is commonly seen in a basement.
The best way to control and prevent water from coming up into your home is to put in a drain tile system while building the house to prevent water from coming from the ground up. The drain tile system dumps into a pit area that was dug before pouring the foundation. Large four inch plastic drain pipes direct the water in the ground to the pit. Once in the pit, the water gets pumped back outside through the sump pump.
Water Prevention in the Walls
When waterproofing a home, the brick foundation is tarred to prevent any water from coming back into the home. The tar is actually sprayed onto the brick to waterproof it. Any place that will come into contact with dirt (and consequently water) should be tarred to prevent water from getting into the home.
Controlling Water Flow
When you have a basement dug out for your new home, the dirt should be redistributed as a backfill around the house. It is vital to make sure that the dirt slopes away from the home to prevent water from coming back into the home and pooling. It needs to drain off to the side and then off to the front or the back of the lot. If sloped incorrectly, your home will be a catch all for rainfall and it will create a tremendous problem for years to come.
There are a number of factors to take into consideration when it comes to preventing moisture and water problems when building a new home. What happens to the water in the ground, how well the water is kept out by the house’s walls, and ultimately controlling the water flow are all factors that should be considered when building a home. Keeping your home dry will preserve your home for years to come.
Building a house is a time intensive, detail oriented process that is often completely unknown to the future homeowner. In our last blog post, we discussed finding the perfect lot. Now, we will talk about what happens early in the process once you find that dream lot. These steps literally lay the foundation for the type of home you will have for years to come.
Dig a Little Deeper
Once you select your lot, the process of building your house usually starts rather quickly. First, your house will be staked. The staking of the house physically lays down the boundaries for the house for the next phases of the house building process.
Once staked, an excavator comes in and physically cuts out portions of the ground where your house will sit. This generally goes down a few feet into the ground. This allows your home to sit securely on a flat surface.
Building a Firm Foundation
Once dug, the footings for your new home will be put down. These have reinforcing rebar in it. Rebar used in reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry structures. It is usually formed from carbon steel, and is given ridges for better mechanical anchoring into the concrete.
Once the footings are in, the actual foundation will be built. At this time, the drain tile will be put in. Drain tile is one of your home’s most important defenses against water damage. Drain tile combined with your foundation's cement footer channels water away from your foundation to prevent seepage into the basement through cracks in the structure. Once the drain tile is in, the backside of the foundation will be tarred. The process of tarring creates a water barrier that keeps water and dampness out of your home.
Once a firm foundation is built, this sets the stage for a quality home to be built. The builder can set up the steel and framing for the house at this time. Not cutting corners in this early and seemingly simply step of building a great foundation is crucial. It can mean the difference between a great, secure home and one that never lives up to your expectations and gives you headaches for years to come.
As we discussed previously, it is vitally important that you find the right lot. Once you find the perfect lot for your new home, the excavation and foundation of the home is essential to creating the home that you want that not only looks great but is also well built.
Today we’re going to offer you some money-saving, frustration-preventing advice on selecting a lot for your new home, so let’s get started! Your first determination is location – where exactly are you going to build your home? The second is…what type of house are you going to build? In terms of lots, there’s a difference between building, say, a two-story and a ranch house.
Now, these determinations are critical for two simple reasons: One, the house has to fit on the lot. And, two, it has to meet the covenant requirements within the neighborhood.
For example, for setbacks, some neighborhoods require a five-foot side yard while others mandate a seven-foot one, etc. (You can find information about the covenants for particular neighborhoods online.)
Then, there are the things you simply never expect like encroachments, power lines, pedestals, or even fire hydrants located in the middle of your driveway!
That’s why you need to work with professional builders. They’re highly experienced at spotting such problems and helping you to avoid or overcome them before you waste precious money and time.
Now, you may be curious as to what types of lots are available in our area. Well, in general, there are three kinds, as described next.
The Flat Lot From the street, the lot rises slightly (3’ to 6’) to the house area. This type keeps the drainage going all the way around the house and to the street.
The Daylight Lot
From the street, this lot also rises slightly, but then drops off a bit more steeply (3’ to 6’ feet). The slightly steeper drop-off allows the bottom windows of your house to have a great view.
The Walkout Lot
From the street, this lot also rises slightly, but comes down more steeply in the rear (6’ +). In the rear, water will draw toward the back, while, in the front, water drains to the street. Plus, of course, you can “walk out” from the lower level, often beneath a deck, into your backyard.
Bottom line: Every lot is different, and there are a lot of factors to consider! That’s why it’s important to work with building professionals early in the process.
A special thanks to Kelly Foley of AmeriSpec for participating in this weeks video. He is an ASHI Certified Member and has been in the home business for a long time. Watch the video, you'll learn a lot and if you have any questions give him a call at 402.393.3696.
You Better Give Sherlock Holmes a Ring!
No, you don't need the fictional detective inspector. However, you do need a home inspector! Think of this as a "pre-emptive strike" to maintain or increase your home's value before you put it on the market. Here are the benefits an inspector provides you:
Benefit 1:The inspector can uncover any problems that need fixing, and you can correct them before any potential buyers enter your home. Such an inspection can prevent your sale from falling through!
Benefit 2:With an inspection, you can show prospective buyers receipts to prove the work has been done. Buyers love proof! In reality and in their eyes, it underpins the value of your home and the asking price.
Benefit 3:You may be able to factor the cost of the inspection into the asking price for your home!
Benefit 4:When you have a pre-sale home inspection completed, you're able to estimate if the discount the prospective buyer is asking is reasonable. In other words, you can refuse unreasonably low offers if you know the value of your house, including the degree of its defects.
So, How Do I Find a Qualified Home Inspector?
I can recommend a certified home inspector who will do a great job for you. However, if you decide you want to do it on your own, make sure he or she is qualified!
Con artists sometimes pose as home inspectors, taking your money and giving you nothing but grief in return. Here's how to know if an inspector is the real deal:
Ask your friends for referrals. If they've had a good experience, go with that home inspector. I’d recommend you interview a minimum of two or three inspectors before choosing one. Make sure they’re full-time professionals conducting several inspections a year.
If possible, select a home inspector who’s a member of The American Society of Home Inspectorsor the National Association of Home Inspectors. These association members follow a stated code of ethics. In addition, they’re prohibited from having a professional interest in the sale, repair or maintenance of a property they inspect. They’re also forbidden from using their inspection business as a way to find customers for a handyman service that they “happen” to own. You may want to go on the Internet and use ASHI’s “Find a Home Inspector” link to identify potential candidates in our locality.
As part of the interview process, ask for samples of comprehensive reports (about 20-50 pages in length). The samples should be painstakingly done and backed up with complete details, including photos and diagrams. If an "inspector" refuses to give you a report or provides only a sloppily written 2-to-5 page sample, run the other way!
What Does a Home Inspector Cost?
Frankly, the rates vary. On a national level, the rates fall in the range of $200 to $400. As part of the interview process, I recommend you ask several inspectors for their rates so you can get an idea of the price range. In the end, keep in mind that while the cost of an inspection may seem high, it can actually add several thousand dollars to the value of your home! So, don't think of it as a cost; think of it as an investment!
What Exactly Does a Home Inspector Evaluate?
In general, he or she will look at the following areas:
- Electrical System Wiring, Service Panel and Service Capacity
You bet! A typical inspection takes three hours or more, so I recommend that you be present for at least the first 30 minutes to make sure the job is being done thoroughly. At the end of the inspection, the home inspector should give you a point-by-point summary of what needs to be corrected in order to add value to your home!
Radon Inspection
From http://amerispecusa.com/services.html
The Midwest ranks as one of the highest areas in the Nation for average radon content. Nebraska is the fourth highest and Iowa is number one. Although Texas is not a "hot spot" for radon, elevated levels have been detected in a few areas. Often relocation companies will require radon testing as part of their program.
When a home has been mitigated for radon, it is a major plus when the system is installed properly to know the levels are being properly maintained. A home that has not been mitigated that previously tested low will likely have a radon level that will fluctuate with the seasons and with the weather conditions.
This inspection includes the placement of testing devices to measure the ongoing level of radon in the habitable areas of the home. These measurements evaluate the level of radon to determine if any form of improvement is required. The EPA document A Citizen's Guide To Radon (Third Edition) provides the basic information everyone should know about Radon. For more information on how to reduce your radon health risk, call your state radon office for copies of these guides:
-Other Indoor Air Quality-specific publications are located at: www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/
If you plan to make repairs yourself, be sure to contact your state radon office or visit our publications site for a current copy of EPA's technical guidance on radon mitigation, "Application of Radon Reduction Techniques for Detached Houses. " Hope you enjoyed this very useful information about home inspection! If you have more questions, please don't hesitate to contact us! You can reach me at 402.680.2500!
Everyone will most likely need the services of a notary at least once in their lives. By definition, a notary is someone legally empowered to witness signatures and certify a document's validity and to take depositions. In layman’s terms, a notary is basically a clerk licensed by the government to prepare legal documents.
Why Would I Need One?
Whether you are purchasing a commercial land, starting a business overseas, lease your property, adopting a child, or migrating to another country, you will need a notary. In more circumstantial situations, you might need notary services to witness the translation of some legal documents, for international business transactions, to prove your identity, and to verify third party cases. Notaries become particularly relevant to the housing market when it comes to signing transition and closing (or celebration) documents when buying a home.
Most companies often need a notary for many business transaction, so it's common for them to hire a notary to be on staff. The application process usually takes about four to six weeks, and requires fees around $50. Furthermore, a bond must be secured, usually averaging around $4000 depending on the state. This covers your years of commission.
Upon completion of one’s notary training and education, they purchase a notary stamp. There are several different types, ranging from acknowledgment, affidavit, to oath stamps. It’s wise to have several kinds to ensure you have some flexibility in your services as a notary.
I Have the Seal of Approval!
While there is traditionally a notary public designated in every state, individuals can also get licensed to perform similar duties. The application process isn’t too complex and there are a few requirements.
First, the applicant must be at least 19 years old. Secondly, he or she must be a resident of the state for which they are applying. The applicant must be able to read and write English, and must not have any felony convictions or other crimes involving fraud or dishonesty.
Let Me Help You Out
As a notary in the state of Nebraska, I have unlimited financial liability on every single document I sign – so I do not take my responsibility lightly as a notary. I am very familiar with the laws regarding a notary and I am extremely dependable.
If you or anyone you know is in need of a notary for any of the reasons listed above, please contact me! Here at CBS Home Real Estate we are here to help you out with even the smallest tasks! Remember my number is 402.680.2500, and you can always shoot me an email at bill.black@cbshome.com!
There is simply no reason to neglect your home repair. You lose value, quality and aesthetic appeal when you don’t engage in regular home improvements and cleaning.
Whether it’s a professional, a handyman or yourself, you can’t afford to skimp on home maintenance! You don’t want to end up waiting until something goes wrong, and then quickly scramble to get it fixed when you are unprepared.
Benefits, Benefits, Benefits
On top of keeping your home in good condition, keeping up with home repairs will ensure that the value of your property appreciates over time. In the long run, you will be thankful you did, and you will reap the benefits financially, especially if you know you will be selling in the future. Remodeling and renovations also help raise your home value, but may require more work. Overall, though it may be costly, home maintenance goes a long way in lowering the risk of future damage.
Safety First!
Many aspects of the home require checking more often than others due to safety issues. Appliances like smoke detectors, heating systems and other mechanisms that can prevent or create hazards should be checked monthly. Most people cannot see items that need repair by doing a simple walk through, so sometimes, closer examination is needed. Things like loose wires can be easily overlooked, but can result in energy overload or even a fire.
What am I Looking For?
Virtually nothing in your house is maintenance free, so it is wise to check everything – but you don’t have to do it all at once, and some areas require more attention than others. The first thing you need to decide is who will be doing the maintenance and checks. You may not have the eye, time or motivation, in which case it might be wise to hire a handyman. If you decide to take the responsibility on yourself, here are a few general things to look for in each area of the home:
Exterior – Chimneys, roofs and gutters should be regularly checked for any kind of blockage, cracks or loose parts. If you have brick siding, you should check for deterioration. For your doors and windows, be sure to check the caulking and weather stripping for quality, especially before the summer and winter to make sure you’re not losing money on heating and air. If you have a wooden garage or patio, be sure to check for termite infestation, which can weaken the strength and support. To avoid broken or falling limbs, be sure to trim all landscaping with overhanging or dead branches.
Interior – Inside your home, walls and ceilings should be monitored for cracks, and areas behind drapes and curtains should be especially checked for mildew or mold, as little airflow is received there. In the attic, look for water leakage from the roof and make sure rafters and insulation are in shape.
Electrical – Once a year, you should make certain you check the main electrical panel for water marks and rust. Also, if you smell anything out of the ordinary, like burning, you should call your electrician. Indoor and outdoor wiring shouldn’t be overlooked, either.
Pest Control – Earwigs, ants, cockroaches, termites and fleas can easily make it into your home undetected. Having pest control come spray your house twice a year is a good choice. Also, though they live only one year on average, mice can bare up to eight litters in their lifetime, so keep things clean! Being sanitary is a simple solution to avoid those creepy critters.
You Can’t Do it All
You might save money by repairing your home on your own, but there are five home repairs that you should never attempt to do on your own:
1. Plumbing: one small leak can result in thousands of dollars worth of damage – leave it to the pros!
2. Electrical Repairs: an electrical shock can be fatal, so don’t even risk it if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing
3. Gas Appliance Repair: Gas has a high chance of leaking, and could potentially lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. Roof Repairs: The hazard is obvious – it’s easy to fall off of a roof. It’s safer and more worthwhile to hire a roofer.
5. Asbestos Removal: Found mostly in older homes, asbestos is toxic and it’s recommended that you get it professionally removed.
All in all, many minor repairs and maintenance actions can be easily completed by you and shouldn’t be disregarded; but if you're unsure, do not hesitate to hire a professional to help out. Take caution where needed and look at everything closely. Remember that taking action now to maintain the quality of your home will benefit you greatly down the road.
For more tips and tricks about the importance of home care, or if you want to talk real estate, feel free to contact me at 402.680.2500 or email me at bill.black@cbshome.com.
May is a month that usually brings a sense of happiness and relief. Those dreary winter months are coming to an end, flowers are blooming all around and mothers are being celebrated! While May is a month of transition in weather, for many it’s also a month of transition in living. Many people are closing on homes this month, but we should rethink the phrase “closing.” Everything else is being celebrated this May, and closing is no exception!
First of all, let’s get a better idea of what’s really involved in closing on a house so we can better understand why it's worthy of a celebration!
The Process
Binding yourself to a home – verifying your homeowner’s insurance, committing to the terms of the mortgage and getting keys in your hand – can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be! It is exciting that you possess a new living space, and it’s easier to feel optimistic about closing when you are more familiar with the process. After your long search for the perfect home, you still have to negotiate, get the house inspected and apply for and commit to the mortgage. Then comes that dramatic moment where you sign the dotted line, and voila, the house is your home! All those tense and stressful months or house hunting are extinguished in the quick and painless process of closing.
Who and What is Involved?
Usually the process involves documents like loan papers, title insurance, contracts, a title and the down payment, to name a few. These items ensure that you will get everything just the way you’d like. Timing is very important to make sure the closing goes smoothly and successfully. Remember, you’re not in it alone! You can search around for a settlement agent to prepare the documents for your closing, or you can simply use a recommendation from your real estate agent or lender.
It’s Not a Closing, it’s an Opening!
While many people use the common phrase “closing,” it’s actually the complete opposite. Sure you may have closed down the house hunting process, but remember who got you to that point? Most likely it was with the help of your real estate agent. Agents, especially me, are dedicated and caring. We don’t like to drop clients by the wayside just because we have helped them close on a home. I take this process as an opportunity to grow with my client and help them in their transition. So let’s celebrate! Here are some fun ways to commemorate your newly owned house!
Get to Know the Neighborhood - Invite some of your neighbors over and take time to enjoy your new home. Celebrate with food and drinks to make everyone feel welcomed! Unpacking Party - Throw and “Unpacking Party” by inviting friends and family over to make the process easier and quicker! It’s always nice to make some kind of treat to show your appreciation.
Show that You Care - Take time to write personal thank you letters to everyone who aided you in your moving process. It shows people you care, and make you appreciate this transitional life event.
Stay in Touch with Your Agent - Again, please don’t think that your real estate agent is left behind in the moving process. We care and want to help you make the most of your new home through the end!
So with all the celebration going on in May, why shouldn’t closing on a home be included as well? This month emits a refreshing zest of life and it should be appreciated and embraced. Do not just be relieved you have finally “closed” on a house but rather let’s rejoice in new homes, lasting relationships and beautiful spring!
I’ll help you celebrate! And I can also answer your questions and provide real estate advice directly. E-mail me at bill.black@cbshome.com or call my cell at 402.680.2500!
Unfortunately, there comes a time when senior citizens can no longer live independently in their family homes. Whether it is physical impediments or mental health that beings to deteriorate, various factors can make a transition necessary.
Many questions arise in the process that can be difficult to answer: What kind of care will he or she receive? How close is it to family? Who’s going to pay for all of this? What to do I do with all of my loved one’s belongings? There are several tips and a lot of information available to make the move easier for both you and the senior citizen.
When is the Right Time?
You may come across many indications that it’s time to move senior citizens into a more accommodating living environment. Not being able to go to the bathroom without assistance, forgetfulness and disorientation are just a few of the possible signals that it may be time. No longer being able to care for oneself may be embarrassing for some, and sometimes the elderly will hesitate to tell others about this. Be sure to be observant, ask questions and let them know you care.
Timing is essential, not only because your loved one might need time to mentally and emotionally prepare, but also because the moving process takes a bit longer for elderly folks. Furthermore, you can ease the realization of moving for them by being approaching the subject delicately. Take time out and really discuss the need to move, get them involved in the process, and make sure they are comfortable. Do some research ahead of time so there are lots of options available.
What Do I Throw Out?
Usually, the elderly person will be downsizing in terms of living space, so not all of his or her belongings will be able to fit in the new place. The issue of packing becomes especially difficult when seniors must leave behind cherished goods. It is important to let them have a great deal of say in what they would like to keep. A good idea is to have some kind of organizational system that indicates the level of importance each item in the home has.
Take into account the new living facility, which might even require the purchase of smaller furniture or carpet. Allow lots of time to set aside items to sell, as well. There is sometimes a great profit to be made by selling older possessions, that can often times be valuable antique and vintage items. So before you toss something in the garbage, make sure you’re not throwing away an item of great value!
Get Familiar with the New Place
If you have the opportunity, take your elderly loved one to see the new living space as often as possible. This way, you can both imagine where certain furnishings will go, and the senior citizen can become more comfortable and accepting of the space. You may even bump into other residence, making the move-in process that much more exciting.
On move-in day, be sure to take your time. Make sure everything is placed in its desired position. Taking things slowly also helps your loved one not to feel abandoned or left alone in his or her new home.
You can always suggest support groups, recreational services and groups and other socially engaging clubs to make them feel connected to others. Moving a senior citizen is a big change and presents many frightening realizations; however, if executed in the correct fashion, it can turn into an exciting transition, and even presents opportunity to connect with your elderly loved one.
So, I want to help you possibly lower them – and maybe even find you some hidden treasure along the way (more on that later).
First, you need to call me! I can show you the ropes on how to contact the Douglas County Assessor’s Office and work with the nice folks there!
Basically, we’ll check on the current valuation of your property to see if you’re able to pay less in taxes.
It’s entirely possible because it’s a fact that many people end up paying too much in property taxes. Now, this isn’t the fault of the assessors! That’s because they’re asked to do a lot of work in a short amount of time and often with too few people.
Also, changes in property values have occurred rapidly within the last few years due to the nationwide “mortgage meltdown.” So, the assessors have scrambled to keep up.
Therefore – guess what? – they need our help! And I’m just the person to provide you with that help.
Call me today at (402) 680- 2500 or contact me at bill.black@cbshome.com, and we’ll get started!
Oh, did you think I’d forgotten about the hidden treasure? Not a chance! Where can you find it?
At the treasurer’s office of Nebraska! They have millions of dollars in unclaimed money and property there.
In fact, the site says that 1 in 8 Nebraskans have unclaimed property – and you could be that one!
So, go to the treasurer’s site to see if you’re owed any money or property. It’s simple and easy to find out.
I’m not only a businessman but a family man as well. It just tears me up to see families lose their homes due to layoffs, a bad economy, and, frankly, loose lending guidelines that allowed home owners to get in over their heads in terms of mortgage payments.
I have one couple that lost their home to foreclosure…is headed toward possible bankruptcy…and possibly divorce as well. I absolutely hate to see that – and want to prevent it.
I want to arm you with some knowledge on the causes of the mortgage market mess and how to deal with the current situation, so I have two links to great articles, and here they are: “How Did We Get Into this Mess”
Now, let’s go to the other side of the coin - short sales. If you’re not familiar with the concept, a “short sale” occurs when the debt on a home is greater than the amount for which the property can be sold.
Here’s a basic example:
Assume a homeowner has an unpaid loan balance of $250,000, but the property will sell for only $225,000. The lender agrees to sell the house for the $225,000 amount, which, of course, leaves it “short” of the full amount. Thus, the name “short sale!”
Naturally, as a buyer, you’d probably like to pick up one of these bargains.Well, due to the “Great Recession,” there are many short sale homes on the market today. But the bad news is - there are far too many of them! Realtors and loan officers are swamped. And that’s led to a problem – there’s a huge backlog of these homes, and realtors and loan providers can’t get to them quickly. Case in point: one of my clients has been waiting for six months on a short sale property and still hasn’t heard a word!I called up one lender to find out what was going on, and he said, “Bill, I’ve got boxes of applications for short sale homes going out the door of my office! We can’t keep up!”
Despite this, I still call loan officers four or five times a week – and sometimes don’t even get an answer because they’re as busy as can be!
So, my advice is this: if you’re seeking a bargain in the short sale market, give yourself a ton of time and have a lot of patience! Realtors, lenders – they’re all nice folks and want to work with you but they’re in a “catch up” situation and are doing the best they can.
Okay, here’s what I want you to do if you feel you might find yourself in a situation where your home could end up in a short sale situation or if you’re a buyer looking to find a short sale bargain – call me at 402-680-2500 or go to bill.black@cbshome.com so I can help you out with common sense advice.
You definitely want to head off the prospect of foreclosure and damage to your family’s well-being! If you are in need of financial counseling log onto.... www.daveramsey.com
