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Tag Archive for: open house

10 Issues Commonly Found During Home Inspections

October 12, 2022/in Education /by Cara Chatellier

In 2020, home inspections started to be waived frequently to make buyers’ offers look enticing. The market is still hot, but home inspections are becoming more common during the fall 2022 market. There is a lot that goes into the process of buying and selling a home. Although not required, a home inspection is one of the most transparent ways to unearth your potential new home before you sign on the dotted line for the final time. 

Here are some of the most common issues found during the home inspection process. 

But first, what is a home inspection?

In simplest terms, a home inspection is a thorough examination of the current condition and safety of a home. It is conducted by a licensed home inspector and reviews areas such as:

  • Heating system
  • Central air conditioning system
  • Interior plumbing
  • All electrical 
  • The roof and attic space
  • Visible insulation
  • Interior areas such as walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
  • The home’s foundation and other structural components
  • The basement 

What does a home inspection help with?

As buyers, home inspections are great ways to get to know the bones of your potential home, ask sellers to fix any significant and costly problems before purchase, and negotiate the terms of your offer to meet your financial needs while getting the house back in order.

As sellers, home inspections are a great way to gauge the overall condition of your home, get a better understanding of your home’s value, and work with your realtor and buyers to discuss options for fixing any major issues with terms that work for both of you. 

What are the 10 most common issues found during a home inspection?

1. A faulty foundation

The most common signs of this issue include ​sticking windows or doors, cracks in the wall, especially above the doorway, sloping floors, or visible cracks in the exterior base of the home. One of the most costly issues to fix, an update to the foundation could cost upwards of $10,000.

2. An old roof

The life expectancy of most roofs is anywhere from 15 to 20 years. During the inspection, roof issues are often noted when there are loose or crooked shingles, leaks in the ceiling, or any loose flashing. Roof repair or replacement can cost between $5,000 to $10,000 or more.

3. Plumbing issues

Faulty plumbing can be noticed in things such as leaky pipes, backed-up sewage systems, or improperly functioning water heaters. The cost to repair plumbing depends on the location and severity of the issue.

4. Mold 

Mold, especially hidden, can be highly detrimental to the overall health of a real estate property. Mold is caused by moisture, which in most cases indicates a leak somewhere in the home. The cost to mitigate mold depends on the severity of its spread. 

5. Electrical issues

Poor wiring or other electrical hazards are frequent issues found during the home inspection process. The most common wiring issues are missing junction boxes, reverse polarity, and damaged receptacles. However, repair and replacement costs are relatively low compared to other reported home inspection issues unless the wiring problem is extensive and requires a complete home replacement.

6. Heating failures

Problems like a blocked chimney, faulty furnace, or non-working controls are enormous issues that home inspectors often encounter. Failed heating systems can cost a lot to replace, especially when your home requires a new furnace. Generally speaking, fixing common heating problems is between $5,000 to $8,000.

7. Structural damage

A common issue in older homes, structural damage can refer to various problems. The most frequent sagging floor joists, rafters, and door headers. Depending on the severity of the issue, the cost could range from minor to major. Review your report in detail to better understand exactly what structural issues are at play.

8. Pest infestations

The ever-so-devious pests come up often on home inspection reports. From rodents to termites, pests can cause serious problems in a home, especially when left untreated. The cost of pest removal depends on how much area the pests have destroyed and exactly what is needed to remove them.

9. Drainage Trouble

Surface grading around the exterior of a home can cause severe drainage issues. Extensive drainage issues can lead to mold and mildew growth, a leaky basement, or foundational issues if not tended to properly. The cost to fix surface grading is based mainly on the size of the area. 

10. General cosmetic issues

Often seen by the naked eye, cosmetic issues are not something that most would think to see on a home inspection report. However, as a seller, it is vital to take care of cosmetic issues to show the buyer and inspector that you care for the property at all levels. Lack thereof could signal other issues to be found below the surface.

 

If you’re in the market for a new home or hoping to sell your home this year, it is important to consider all the factors that go into a home inspection. To learn more about the home inspection process or begin the home buying or selling process, contact us today. 

https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10-Common-Issues-Found-During-Home-Inspections-Maura-Allard-Realtor-Beverly-MA.png 1182 1410 Cara Chatellier https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Cara Chatellier2022-10-12 23:35:482022-10-19 14:27:5410 Issues Commonly Found During Home Inspections
Fall style flowers in a vase with folded clothes

My Top 5 Fall Home Decor Trends of 2021

October 20, 2021/in Organization /by Cara Chatellier

Fall is synonymous with cozy. So when it comes to enjoying the brisk season that brings so many people together, there may be no better time to redecorate your home with all the feels of the season. From chunky knits to warm and inviting colors, fall home decor trends play a pivotal role in defining your space to all who enter, including you. The best part? You don’t have to break the bank or complete an entire room remodel to bring in the vibes of the season. Instead, focus on a few staple fall decor trends that have taken off this year and infuse them into your home as you see fit.

Although there are hundreds of different trends and design ideas floating around for fall, I prefer to stick to the classics that make me feel warm and welcome year in and year out. 

Here are my top 5 fall home decor trends for 2021:

 

1. Chunky Knits

Whether you’re outfitting the linens on your bed or changing out the throw blankets on your living room sofas, there are so many ways to incorporate chunky knits into your fall decorating. They double as a great relaxation cover when you’re cozying up to enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate and a holiday movie on a cool fall night. Varying in options from classic neutrals to bright and vibrant multi-colored knits, you can add pizazz and comfort to any space. Think outside the box a bit with this option by adding chunky knit pillows to your outdoor seating area around the fire pit or filling an outdoor blanket bin with chunky throws to use on a cold night cuddling with your loved ones after a fun night of making s’mores together. The possibilities for this design option are quite endless. 

2. Lantern Lighting

Nothing sets the mood like lighting. From Christmas lights in the winter to flamingo-themed lights in the summer months, lighting is integral to your overall home design and decor. The perfect way to set the mood for the fall season is by using lantern lighting. The ambiance of the deeper hues against the stark and distressed lantern designs is a combination that can’t be beat. Lanterns are versatile options for both indoor and outdoor use, allowing you to outfit them with real candles or faux battery-operated options. Add a lantern to your dining table decor, on top of your tv stand, or as an accent to your front porch seating. The mood will quickly change from dark to warm and inviting.

3. Fall Leaves and Flowers

Nothing says fall quite literally like the falling leaves that hit the ground and crunch under our boots as we stroll down a sidewalk on a crisp autumn morning. So when decorating your home this season, consider adding fall leaves and flowers throughout your home. Whether faux or natural, they add a level of nature and comfort that can only be found from their beauty. When choosing flowers, pick muted and deep colors, such as browns, dark oranges, deep yellows, and maroons. My favorite place to add them? To dining tables, entry tables, and bathroom counters. The subtle touch of the outdoors brings an instant feeling of the season. 

4. Modern Farmhouse 

A trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, modern farmhouse is the ideal home decor option for those looking to make a significant impact in their home this season. Whether you’re just moving into your place or hoping to change up the look of an entire room or floor of your home, modern farmhouse is an ideal and timeless option that will last long beyond the current season. Modern farmhouse can pair well with many home styles by mixing rustic chic with cozy hints of industrial elements. First, start small by changing some of your mantle, bookcase, or shelving accents with modern farmhouse options. Then, if you love the feel, go bigger and replace staple furniture pieces. 

5. Woven Baskets and Distressed Trays

Remember all the rage that the photo accent wall brought to the design industry for years? Well, it’s back for fall with a cozy twist. Instead of designing a wall around your favorite portraits, frames and paintings, consider outfitting a wall with woven baskets and trays. Bringing in intricate dimensions warms up any space while providing a visually appealing look. 

 

Although pumpkins and scarecrows are great added touches to your outdoor decor, especially with Halloween on our heels, there are various other ways to decorate your home for the season. Whatever you decide on, your goal for the season should be a home that exudes warmth, comfort, and peace. So tap into fall colors and comforts and enjoy the nostalgic season we are in. 

https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/My-Top-5-Fall-Home-Decor-Trends-of-2021-Maura-Allard-Realtor-North-Shore-MA.png 1082 1296 Cara Chatellier https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Cara Chatellier2021-10-20 14:37:402021-10-20 14:37:40My Top 5 Fall Home Decor Trends of 2021

Life on the River

January 5, 2019/in For Sale, Housing, Open House /by Maura Allard

Living on 9 Endicott Rd.

Welcome to life on the river. Can you imagine loving your home? Having direct access to a river deep in your backyard? I ask my sellers to complete a form listing what they absolutely LOVE about their house. The seller of this listing at 9 Endicott Street, Unit A in Danvers said, “Location, Location, Location”.  What a great location is to one buyer, may be a nightmare for another.

This townhouse has direct access to the Crane River in the backyard allowing you to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass a wine on your deck/patio while watching the sunrise/set over the River; drop your kayak in and paddle off to Beverly or Salem for a weekend excursion. Oh, the possibilities!

9 Endicott is also located less than a mile from supermarkets, BJs, the Liberty Tree Mall, movies, restaurants, medical facilities and Route 128.  My seller is a busy executive who travels extensively, having highway access under a mile from her front door has made her commuting to the airport less stressful.  

If you are in the market for a spacious townhouse with serene water-views out your windows, but also the ease and convenience of having shopping and highway access close by, this could be the home you are looking for!  Open houses start the weekend of 3/3 and the list price is 479,900!

To view this listing please click on the link below:

http://9EndicottStA.c21.com

Welcome to Life on the River.

0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2019-01-05 19:47:252020-06-23 13:14:04Life on the River

Listing your Home for Sale

March 5, 2018/in For Sale, Housing, Resources /by Maura Allard

It’s time to think about Decluttering!

Spring is on the horizon, has the thought of selling your home crossed your mind recently?  As a Realtor, I have the pleasure of seeing many houses, and yes professionally staged houses look amazing! You want to move right in, you can see yourself living in the house, the problem is not everyone can afford to hire a professional stager.  If you can, terrific, it is worth every penny and it definitely has the potential to fetch you higher offers.  But what if you can’t afford a stager??

The number one thing I believe a seller can do to get their home ready to sell is to declutter.  Adopt the mindset you are moving and start packing.  Head off to the Container Store and buy boxes and plastic totes.  Banish your collectibles, personal photos, magazine collections, overflowing toys (that includes dog toys).  Strip your fridge of magnetic calendars from your insurance agent and the town recycling schedule.  Put away the Kitchen Aid Mixer and blender and keep your countertop appliances to a coffee maker and toaster.  Your personal belongings make your house a home, but now that you have decided to move your home now needs to become a house.

I’m always happy to provide a free decluttering consultation for anyone interested in selling.

Interested in Listing with a top realtor in Beverly, Massachusetts? Let’s talk!

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0 0 Maura Allard https://mauraallardandcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Untitled-340-×-156-px-3-1-300x147.png Maura Allard2018-03-05 19:47:462020-06-23 13:33:50Listing your Home for Sale

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