HouseMaster Homeower tips

To avoid unexpected mishaps that could ruin an evening around the fireplace, observe some simple precautions. Clean fireplaces annually, preferably by a certified chimney sweep. Use safety screens and doors for wood-burning fireplaces. Before lighting any fire, check to see that flue damper is op...

Maintenance costs need to be considered when purchasing a home. General estimates indicate that every home will require between 1 percent and 3 percent of the home’s value in annual maintenance costs, and this figure does not necessarily include major or emergency repairs. Prevention Saves Time a...

Buyers and  investors often look to foreclosure sales to find real estate bargains. But newcomers to this market could find some unpleasant surprises if they go in blind. All homes should be thoroughly inspected by a professional home inspector before sealing the deal. Why inspect if you can’t ne...

Check your know-how on various homeownership related matters. See how many questions you can answer correctly. (The answers are listed at the end.) True or False? 1. Gutters should be hung as level as possible. 2. Flat roofs are more prone to leakage than other roofs. 3. When purchasing an A/C sy...

Owning and using a hot tub is not all fun and games. Their use, which is so comforting to tired bodies, can also tax the circulatory system and pose a risk of bacterial infection. On the bright side, these hazards can be avoided by proper use and maintenance. Here are some pointers: Make sure tha...

Ice, technically. But what you’re really referring to is household water that contains dissolved minerals (usually calcium and magnesium) above 1 GPG (grams per gallon). Water is classified as follows: Soft Water – less than 1 GPG Slightly Hard – 1 to 3.5 GPG Moderately Hard – 3.5 to 7 GPG Hard ...

Price negotiations are a part of most real estate deals. Sellers usually brace themselves as the buyer’s home inspector combs through the house, but sellers do not need to feel powerless and anxious. Sellers are better positioned to fend off unrealistic price negotiations by getting a pre-listing...

A professional home inspection helps consumers learn about the condition of a home before making a purchase, but not all home inspectors are created equal. According to HouseMaster, the oldest and most experienced name in home inspections, consumers often only ask for information about fees, but ...

When buying a home, one of the most important things to consider is the condition of the roof. And even if it is watertight at the time of inspection, you may still find it leaking sooner than expected. To stay ahead of such situations, check the attic periodically for telltale signs of leakage. ...

Many couples embark on the purchase of a new home soon after they are engaged or married. It’s a hectic time, but these tips should help new homebuyers be proactive and make educated real estate decisions. Location -- Proximity to employment and the quality of the schools are common factors in de...