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Buyers Tips
Special Buyer Tips!
Here are a few things to think about as you start your home search. Educate yourself on today's issues before making any offers. Knowledge you gain today can save you headaches down the road!
Asbestos Concerns
Many sales agreements mention asbestos by saying "the buyer is aware
asbestos may be used in the construction of this home." This can be a
little unsettling. Asbestos is a known carcinogen
Home Heating Sources
Heating and cooling systems are some of the most important investments
you'll ever make in your home. Heating and cooling accounts for 44% of
your home's energy use
Insulation "R" Values
The most important thing to be aware of with insulation, other than
the safety issues of urea formaldehyde and asbestos (covered elsewhere),
is the R value, or the insulating factor. The higher the number, the
better the insulator
Home Insurance
When purchasing a home, you will need to acquire homeowners insurance.
In fact, all lenders will require a policy be in force prior to funding
the loan
Lead Paint
All sellers with homes built prior to 1978 are required to fill out a
lead-based paint disclosure form and provide you, the buyer, with a
lead-based paint educational booklet in any sale
Plumbing Alert
You will spot several different types of plumbing systems in any
housing market, including your own. Copper, galvanized, rigid plastic,
polybutylene, and soft plastic are but a few. Certain systems are more
prone to having certain problems
Lap Siding
When you are checking out homes, there are several items in our market
you need to be aware of - including man-made siding. A lot has been
said about
Thinking of Stucco
This is a terrific product, as it adds insulation value to the home,
not to mention classy looks. However, it can also be a serious and
very expensive repair if it isn't installed correctly
Energy Efficient Windows
Single pane, double pane, thermo pane, triple pane windows, plain glass,
leaded glass, low "e" glass, wired glass, and tempered glass, too. WOW -
There's a lot to know
Home Wiring
The type of wiring in residential homes generally depends on when the
home was built, where it was built and if it has been updated. In the
older homes, knob and tube type wiring was the norm