This is a complex questions and what is right for one person might not be right for another.  That is why many realtors stress to their clients the importance of speaking with their accountant or an attorney to assist them in choosing the right course of action to take when dealing with their real estate matters.

Presently, there are many atricles out there addressing this subject.  I caution everyone on reading these articles and taking action before speaking with a reputable attorney or tax accountant.  It is important to know what the consequences will be no matter what action is taken. 

While a Real Estate Agent is not allowed to give legal advise, they are a good source for references.  You might also speak with your neighbors and see who they may know or have heard about regarding this issue.

Good Luck with y0ur future and your real estate investments.

It has been my experience over the years for those people out there looking to purchase a home during the Holidays are serious buyers.  This makes a great time to be on the market due to so many others taking their home off the market during this time of year.  This could help any seller that is interested in selling their home due to simple supply and demand.

Its just a note to keep in mind when selling expecially in a market that is not so favorable to the seller.  Make the best of it and get that exposure.  Remember, it only takes one buyer to put your home in escrow.

Happy Holidays Everyone

As the weather becomes warmer and days are longer, we spend as much time as we can outdoors enjoying our backyards. Many of us tackle do-it-yourself projects and others are happy just being outside. But, to be safe, it is important to remember the following safety tips when doing outside jobs, especially if you have children:

• Keep children inside the house or well away from the area you are mowing.

• Before you mow, check the area for broken sticks, stones, toys and anything else that could shoot out from under the mower or damage the blade.

• Wear goggles and hearing protection.

• Never reach under the mower unless it is turned off and the blade has completely stopped turning.

• If you run out of gas, stop and let the engine cool down before you add more. Gasoline vapors can easily catch on fire.

• Read the labels of things you use for your lawn and garden. If you see the words “Caution,” “Warning,” “Danger,” “Poison,” or “Keep Out of Reach of Children,” these products can be dangerous for children. Store them in a place with a lock.

• When using a chain saw, make certain it is equipped with an anti-kickback chain and is well sharpened.

• Pick up all garden tools such as rakes, spades, forks, pruning clippers, files and metal plant stakes when not in use.

www.homesafetycouncil.org

 Property Owners need to get their properties ready for winter.

Many areas have already had a taste of fall weather, and it’s not far behind for most others. Now is the time to make sure your house and heating system are ready for winter.  Your Property Management Company may also have services available for your maintenance needs.  Here is a brief checklist to guide you through some basic tasks before it is too late:

GROUNDS

• Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for debris or blockage.
• Repair any driveway cracks and/or heaved or settled walkways.
• Trim all trees and shrubs that are too close to the house.
• Check (ideally during a rainstorm) for rainwater drainage away foundation.
• Clean and put summer furnishings away.
• Drain and store garden hoses.

EXTERIOR SURFACES

• Check weather tightness of all exterior surfaces and components.
• Check for deterioration of painted or finished areas. If too late for a full paint job, prime and touch-up bare wood surfaces.
• Caulk and seal all joints in siding, around windows and doors.
• Check and seal any foundation cracks.
• Improve weather stripping at exterior doors and windows as needed.
• Reset storms and screens where required.
• Look for any signs of insect or pest activity around the foundation and at wood components close to the ground.

ROOF (Use binoculars or hire a professional.)

• Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.
• Check eave areas for signs of moisture build-up or damage.
• Check the condition of chimneys.
• Check flashings for signs of lifting or damage and repair as needed.
• Check and clean all gutters (eaves troughs) and downspouts.

ATTIC

• Check ventilation openings for nests or other blockage.
• Check the position and condition of insulation for uniform coverage.
• Look for any signs of excessive moisture or heat buildup.

INTERIOR ROOMS

• Check all areas for signs of roof or plumbing leakage.
• Have any fireplaces or wood stoves and flues checked and professionally cleaned.
• Reset automatic timers for the change in daylight hours.
• Check all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if over a year old.
• Test Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI’s) using built-in test buttons.

HEATING/COOLING SYSTEMS

• Clean all elements of the cooling system.
• Remove (or winterize) room air conditioners.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for the maintenance of your heating system.
• Change or clean heating system filters on warm air systems (now and regularly).
• Check heating and cooling systems for any evidence of water leaks.
• If present, clean and test the humidifier.
• Have your heating system serviced annually by a qualified heating serviceperson before the heating season to keep it functioning efficiently and properly.

PLUMBING

• Drain exterior water lines and open taps (in cold areas).
• Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing.
• Check the condition and temperature setting of the water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the temperature setting.
• Check the plumbing system and fixtures for any evidence of water leaks or blocked drains.
• Confirm proper operation of any sump pumps and free flow of the drain line.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. ]]> http://cameronriegel.com/2009/11/04/fall-maintenance-checklist/feed/ 0 http://cameronriegel.com/2009/10/19/fall-maintance-is-fast-approaching/ http://cameronriegel.com/2009/10/19/fall-maintance-is-fast-approaching/#comments Mon, 19 Oct 2009 20:32:53 +0000 Cameron Riegel /?p=7 It is the beginning of fall and all property owners will be gearing up for the rainy season. What this means for many is getting those summer projects wrapped up. Painting the outside eves, clearing the gutters of leaves, and fertilizing the yard, shrubs and trees before winter season comes.

A home owner needs to keep in mind the importance of deferred maintenance and make sure those items that need attention now, like gutter cleaning, is not put off past the start of our rainy season. If the gutters are not cleaned out before the rain comes, they can fail to drain property resulting in overflowing onto the home causing damaged to the eves of the home causing wood rot which will need to be replaced costing the homeowner more money in the long run diminishing the value of his investment.

There are a number of companies available for an investor or home owner who will come out and clean your gutters for you and the cost is minimal compared to the damages that would be created should they not be cleaned.

If you are interested, please give a shout and we will be happy to give you 2 or 3 persons in which to contact for estimates.

Remember, Realty World – Action 1 Properties is here at your service. We are your Neighborhood’s Hard Working Nice Guys.

From start to finish, you are covered.  Whether we are managing your rental properties, listing your properties for sale, assisting you in purchasing a home, or 1031 Exchange, you will experience our 5 Star Service!

To maximize income and minimize expenses, Realty World Action 1 Properties maintains a high standard of reliability and accountability giving owners true peace of mind that comes with knowing their property is in the best hands possible. 

No property is too big or too small for our 5 Star Service!