🍁 Home Maintenance in the Fall 🍁
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the coming winter months. For homeowners looking to sell, this season offers a unique opportunity to showcase your property in its best light. A well-maintained home not only appeals to potential buyers but also enhances your lifestyle by ensuring comfort and safety. Here is a home maintenance checklist for this fall to make sure your home is in tip-top shape: 1. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters, leading to water damage. Make sure to clean them out and check for any signs of wear or damage. 2. Check the Roof: Look for missing or damaged shingles and have them repaired promptly. A sturdy roof is a major selling point and crucial for keeping your home warm and dry. In the PNW it is also advantageous to put preventative moss killer which if applied preferably is on a sunny day. One popular brand is called Moss Out! which is about 30 bucks for 1,000 sq ft of roof. You can buy it at Home Depot or your favorite home improvement store. 3. Seal Windows and Doors: Check for gaps and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks. Weather stripping can save a ton on your heating bill so something to look into especially if you have an older home. 4. Service the Heating System: Ensure your furnace or heating system is in good working order by having it serviced by a professional. Replace filters if necessary, as a well-functioning system is essential for both comfort and energy efficiency. You may be thinking... how often should I change my filter? Well in general here is how often to change your filter. 1 to 2-inch filters need to be replaced every 1-3 months 3 to 4-inch filters every 6-9 Months. 5 to 6-inch filters are replaced every 9-12 months. Another tip: Take a marker and put the date you changed the filter so you can track when it needs to be replaced. And if you're tech-savvy, you can put a reminder on your phone. 5. Chimney Maintenance: If you have a fireplace, now is the time to have the chimney inspected and cleaned. This not only prevents potential hazards but also makes your home more inviting. If you already know your chimney is safe but needs a bit of sprucing up, I have found The creosote sweeping log to be helpful. They cost about $20. 6. Yard Cleanup: Rake leaves, trim overgrown bushes, and clear away any debris. A tidy yard enhances curb appeal but also, you could start a composting pile so that in the spring, your compost is ready for your garden! 7. Check Smoke Detectors: Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are functioning properly. This also prevents your fire alarm from randomly beeping, waking you up in the middle of the night now having to be on a quest to find which one is low on batteries. 8. Exterior Paint Touch-Ups: Touch up any peeling or chipped paint on the exterior of your home. This small effort can make a big difference in overall appearance. With all of the moisture we have, paint is a great barrier to keep your home protected from elements. By taking these steps, you can maintain the integrity of your home while making it more appealing. Not only will you be protecting your investment, but you'll also be comfortable knowing you have prepared for the colder months ahead.
Discover Serenity and Convenience at 7908 NE Loowit Loop #50, Vancouver, WA
Welcome to 7908 NE Loowit Loop #50, Vancouver, WA – a gem nestled in the tranquil enclave of Indian Hills. Newly priced at just $335,000, this end-unit condo offers an impeccable blend of privacy, comfort, and convenience that's hard to find. From the moment you step inside this 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home, you'll be greeted by an open floor plan awash with natural light. The kitchen, complete with an inviting eating bar, seamlessly flows into a cozy dining nook. Imagine whipping up a hearty meal while staying engaged with your guests in the adjacent living room. With its fireplace and skylights, the living room , has an inviting atmosphere perfect for casual evenings and lively gatherings. Venture upstairs to discover the spacious master suite, featuring a walk-in closet, an en suite bathroom, and a private balcony. Whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee or stargazing at night, this balcony offers a personal retreat. Not to be overlooked, one of the largest decks in the neighborhood extends from the back of the unit, offering unobstructed views of the serene green space. This quiet corner condo is not only surrounded by lush trees but also has vaulted ceilings and large windows, creating an airy and spacious feeling throughout. Plus, with ample storage, you’ll have space for all your belongings without clutter. Residents also have access to a community pool, perfect for relaxing summer swims. When it’s time to step out, you’re just 3 minutes away from I-5 and I-205, giving you quick access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Despite the easy freeway access, the condo’s location is a tranquil and peaceful place to live. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to own a beautiful home in Indian Hills. Schedule a tour today and experience the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and tranquility at 7908 NE Loowit Loop #50.
Should My Family Live Multi-Generationally?
Living multi-generationally is a concept that has gained popularity in recent years. Emily Wolford and her family personally lived multi-gen for years and can talk about the pros and cons. As housing costs continue to rise and the cost of living becomes increasingly expensive, many families are considering this alternative living arrangement. There are pros and cons to living multi-generationally, but in the end, it may just be the right choice for you. One of the main advantages of living multi-generationally is the financial aspect. With today's economy, it can be challenging for young adults to afford a home on their own. By living with their parents or grandparents, they can significantly reduce their housing expenses. Additionally, pooling resources can make it easier to pay for other expenses such as utilities, groceries, and even mortgage payments. Speaking of mortgages, living multi-generationally can also make it easier to qualify for a home loan. Lenders often consider the combined income of all family members living in the household. This means that even if an individual's income alone may not be enough to secure a mortgage, the combined income of the entire household might be sufficient. This can open up homeownership opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. From a lifestyle standpoint, multi-generational living can offer many benefits. For starters, it fosters stronger family bonds and provides ample opportunities for intergenerational support. Grandparents can help take care of grandchildren, providing valuable love and guidance, while also allowing parents to have additional help with childcare responsibilities. Moreover, multi-generational living allows family members to share in the joys and challenges of everyday life, creating lasting memories and deepening familial relationships. On the other hand, there are also some potential downsides to living multi-generationally. The lack of privacy is often cited as a major concern. When multiple generations are under one roof, personal space can become limited, and constant interaction with family members may sometimes be overwhelming. It is crucial for families considering this arrangement to establish boundaries and communicate openly about individual needs and expectations to minimize potential conflicts. Another aspect to consider is the potential impact on investment opportunities. While living multi-generationally can help save money, it may also limit the flexibility to invest in other properties or real estate ventures. With limited financial resources and shared expenses, it might be difficult to allocate funds toward alternative investments. However, it's essential to weigh this against the potential long-term financial benefits of living multi-generationally, such as paying off a mortgage sooner or building equity in a shared family home. Ultimately, the decision to live multi-generationally is a personal one that depends on various factors. It's vital to consider your financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. If saving money, fostering strong family bonds, and providing support to one another resonate with you, then multi-generational living may be a viable option. When considering this living arrangement, it's crucial to have open and honest conversations with all family members involved. Discuss expectations, boundaries, and potential challenges that may arise. By establishing clear guidelines, everyone can work together to create a harmonious and fulfilling living environment. In conclusion, living multi-generationally has its pros and cons. It offers financial benefits, helps qualify for mortgages, and strengthens family bonds. However, it may also require sacrificing privacy and limit future investment opportunities. Careful consideration of your unique circumstances and goals can help determine if this living arrangement is right for your family. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, but with proper planning and communication, multi-generational living can be a rewarding experience for all. I lived multi-generational for years and would be happy to talk more about what helped our family dynamics work out best. Feel free to schedule a time to talk with Emily at (360) 901 2541
