Home inspections are an important aspect of homeownership, as they help you stay on top of any potential issues with your home, and ensure that it remains in good condition over the years. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why you should have a home inspection periodically, what you can expect during the inspection process, and how to choose the right home inspector for your needs.

Why You Should Have a Home Inspection Periodically

1. Early detection of problems: One of the main reasons to have a home inspection is to identify any potential problems early on. This could be anything from a leaky roof to a faulty electrical system. By catching these issues early, you can make the necessary repairs before they become larger, more expensive problems.
2. Maintenance planning: A home inspection can help you plan for future maintenance needs. For example, if the inspector notes that your roof will need to be replaced in a few years, you can start saving for that expense now, rather than having to scramble to pay for it when the time comes.
3. Increased peace of mind: Knowing that your home is in good condition can give you peace of mind and help you feel more secure in your investment. Having a home inspection can also give you confidence in your purchase if you're buying a new home, as you'll know what you're getting into before you close the deal.
4. Better resale value: If you're thinking about selling your home in the future, having a home inspection can help you identify any issues that need to be addressed before putting your home on the market. This can increase the resale value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

During a home inspection, a professional inspector will examine all aspects of your home, including the roof, foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, and more. The inspector will look for any signs of damage or wear, as well as any potential safety hazards. They may also take photos and make notes to document their findings.

Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will provide you with a detailed report that outlines their findings and recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades. It's important to review this report carefully and address any issues as soon as possible.

Choosing the Right Home Inspector

When choosing a home inspector, it's important to look for someone who is licensed and experienced. You should also ask for references and check their credentials before making a decision. Additionally, it's a good idea to choose an inspector who is neutral and impartial, and who has no vested interest in the outcome of the inspection.

In conclusion, having a home inspection periodically is an important aspect of homeownership that can help you keep your home in good condition and protect your investment. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, a home inspection can provide valuable insights and peace of mind. So don't hesitate to schedule an inspection today!

When it comes to buying a new home, there are a lot of things to consider. From location to layout to condition, there are many factors that can impact your decision. However, there are a few key things that every buyer should be on the lookout for when buying a new home.

1. Location: The location of your new home is one of the most important factors to consider. You'll want to think about things like proximity to schools, shopping, and public transportation, as well as the overall safety and desirability of the neighborhood. Pay attention to the area's crime rate and the quality of local schools and amenities.

2. Condition: Another important factor to consider when buying a new home is its condition. Look out for any signs of wear and tear, such as peeling paint or leaks. Make sure to do a thorough inspection of the home, including the roof, foundation, and any major appliances. Check for any signs of termite or other pest infestations and make sure that the home is up to code.

3. Future Potential: Before buying a home, try to think about what you might want to do with it in the future. Think about whether you might want to add a room, remodel the kitchen or bathrooms, or add a pool or other outdoor features. Make sure that the home has the potential for these types of updates, and that any necessary permits or zoning approvals are in place.

By keeping these three things in mind, you'll be able to make a more informed decision when buying a new home. Remember to take your time and do your research, and you'll be sure to find the perfect home for you and your family.

There's no magical age or life stage at which you'll know for sure exactly when to buy a house. There are, however, a few factors you'll want to take into account.

Finances: How's your credit score? Can you afford to take on a monthly mortgage payment? Do you have enough cash to pay for a down payment and closing costs? Sit down with a mortgage lender who can help you evaluate your finances.

You'll also need to budget for home maintenance expenses. One rule of thumb says homeowners should set aside 1% to 3% of their home's purchase price a year for home maintenance and repairs. So, if your home cost $400,000, you'd set aside at least $4,000 annually. (Doing preventative maintenance, however, can go a long way toward staving off expensive repairs.)

Stability: If you’re on solid ground financially, with a stable job to support you, buying a home can be a way to lower your monthly housing costs (real talk: Owning is often cheaper than renting in some cities), gain a valuable financial asset, and, if you itemize, reap some tax benefits.

If you're ready to commit to a home and city (and your job) for a few years, you're probably in a stable enough situation to be a homeowner.

Lifestyle: Owning a house allows you to develop a strong relationship with a local community. Buying a home should align with your life goals. If you're starting a family soon, planting your roots in a kid-friendly neighborhood with a great school district is usually a good reason to buy a house.

There's also something to be said about the pride of owning a home and having a place you can call yours — one that you can customize to your heart's desire.

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Service Plan

I want to powerfully suggest that you set yourself up with a twice a year service for your HVAC.  Just like a regular service for your car it can keep your system running more efficiently and longer.  So call a local HVAC service company and get set up for an inspection and cleaning twice a year. As dull as that sounds, that should be enough, but I will go on.

The HVAC is the system that circulates your air (remember, real estate agent, not HVAC technician terms) throughout your house and hopefully heats it and cools it depending on the time of year.

Change the Filters

Your first job is changing the filters in the house on a regular basis, then having the experts come in and clean the other dirt and hair and gunk that collects on the various parts of the system, slowing the process.  Then the system gets overworked becoming less efficient and effective.

Why All The Concern?

In addition to the junk I have already talked about, bacteria can also start to build up in that moist hairy gunky mess.

The outside component of your HVAC system can also get clogged up. Of course it can, it is outside. If you have not looked at the outside unit it has a big fan that is pretty important to the operation.; If it gets clogged, or rusted, or broken, then forget it. And remember, if it is going to break down, it will happen at the worst times

Professionals suggest having the system serviced twice a year is sufficient to keep this marvel of the modern age working to keep us comfortable in our own homes.  Do as they suggest to keep the system working properly and efficiently. Do this and it will cost you less money in the long run.

Starting October 1, 2020 you will need to have the updated South Carolina license (REAL ID) in order to board a domestic or commercial flight, enter a secure federal building, or visit a military installation. The good news is that there is plenty of time in order to make the change, either online or in person. 

The bad news is that time flies.

Not everybody is eligible to purchase the new license online and therefore must go to a South Carolina DMV branch.  To check if you are eligible to purchase online or to find out what documents you must bring with you to get the license in person, go to this link: 

 New License Information  

Now if you do not fly with your license and use your passport then you would not have to get the new license. However, it will not take much of your time and will end up being more convenient after you have it.

Happy Traveling

When buying and selling real estate in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island SC you will probably have to deal with an HOA or POA.  An HOA is the Homeowners Association also referred to as a POA or Property Owners Association. When making a purchase it is important to find out what fees you will be paying on a yearly or monthly basis and what those fees are actually funding.

“Fees generally pay for the maintenance and improvements of common areas and amenities — such as pools, exercise rooms and clubhouses — and sometimes for things like social events, security and insurance.” - Nerdwallet  LINK.

When selling real estate there may be fees associated with the closing that are the seller’s responsibility unless negotiated away in the real estate purchase agreement.

When interacting with the HOA you will likely go through a management company that has the responsibility of enforcing the HOA rules and collecting the fees involved with the association.  Find out the contact for the management company and make sure you ask them what your responsibilities as a homeowner will entail prior to making your purchase. That way you can avoid any problems that may occur after you have already become a homeowner.

Ask your real estate agent to get you in touch with the association and the management company when figuring out where you are going to purchase.  Loving where you live also means understanding what you are responsible for monetarily and what rules you must follow.

Call me if you have any questions and Have a Great Day!

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