| Monthly Quote |
“For each petal on the shamrock this brings a wish your way. Good health, good luck and happiness for today and every day.”
-Irish blessing |
| Tip of the Month |
As spring draws ever nearer, many homeowners are thinking about sprucing up their homes. Unfortunately, if you’re not a savvy DIY-er, home repairs can be expensive when you hire help. The following three tips from Andy Bell, founder of a franchise repair service, Handyman Matters, will help you prevent that leaky faucet from blowing your budget:
• Cut base charges. Repair people usually charge a flat fee ranging from $25 to $90 for a visit and then tack on hourly charges. Save money by consolidating repairs into fewer visits and paying only one base charge. If you need your furnace checked, have the HVAC specialist also tune up your air conditioner.
• Communicate on the phone. When you call a repair person, be clear on the phone as to what the problem is and the history of the problem. If the repair person knows exactly what to expect, he or she will come prepared and save time and money. You might also ask if it’s possible to e-mail a photo of the problem.
• Purchase your own supplies. Most repair companies charge a markup of 20% to 100% of the cost of materials, and may also charge you for the time spent shopping. If you can purchase your own paint, tile, carpet or other home repair material, you will save money on the repair.
Source: USA Weekend
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Volume 5, Number
3
March, 2008
Welcome to the March 2008 issue of “At Home with HouseHunt,” HouseHunt’s monthly consumer newsletter. With 2008 in full swing, some homeowners are starting to think about selling their homes in the near future. Even in the current slowing market, it’s still possible to be a successful seller. Our feature story, “Sell Your Home in 2008” will address what you can do to help make your home stick out and put it in a better position to sell. In addition to focusing your attention on your mortgage, homeowners should not forget to give some attention and investment towards upkeep on some of the basic components of their home, as specified in our article, “How Long Will My Carpet Live?” Updating the look of your home doesn’t have to be as expensive as it may seem. If you’re looking to upgrade the look of your home, make sure to read our piece entitled, “Easy, Elegant Ways to Spruce Up Your Home”, for some inspiration. Ever thought of turning your home into a Bed and Breakfast? If you have (and even if you haven’t), then our story this month covering a recent book on the subject of whether or not to turn your home into a B&B should make for an intriguing read. As the housing market is still in a lull, many homeowners are turning to renting their homes. For those who find themselves in this position, our feature, “Living as a Landlord: The Alternative to Selling” will give you some great tips on how to make the best of your situation. Finally, our tip of the month takes a look at how to save money on home repairs, and our seasonal suggestion will help you enjoy your St. Patrick’s Day!
The HouseHunt Team - Information
you need for all your real estate needs
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Survey Question
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Seasonal
Suggestion
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Channel the luck of the Irish this St. Patrick’s Day by decorating your home for the occasion. Whether you are throwing a St. Patty’s Day bash or just enjoying the holiday yourself, consider these tips for bringing the Emerald Isle into your home. more>>
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Sell Your Home in 2008
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If you’re considering selling your home this year, it is never too early to think about making your home stand out in the crowd. more>>
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How Long Will My Carpet Live?
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Beyond the cost of your mortgage and general upkeep, you should also consider the cost of replacing your home’s major components at some point down the road.
more>>
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Easy, Elegant Ways to Spruce Up Your Home
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Giving your home a new look doesn’t have to involve thousands of dollars and weeks of time. A recent article appearing in Clean Home Journal offers quick, easy ways to give your home a new lease on life. more>>
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Make Your Home Work for You: Start a B&B
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A recent Realty Times article discusses the book To B&B or Not to B&B: The Fun and Facts of Operating a Bed and Breakfast, including whether this home-based enterprise is right for you. more>>
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Living as a Landlord: The Alternative to Selling
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As housing sales remain lethargic in most of the country, many desperate sellers are turning to renting as their salvation. If you find yourself in the same situation, read on for tips on successful renting. more>>
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