Hiring a Contractor? Know the Cleanup Policy

How to Tame Your JUNK DRAWER

How to Keep Your Water Heater Working Efficiently

Many homeowners don’t think about water heater maintenance as much as they should.

Check the temperature-pressure relief valve. If it doesn’t release water or releases too much, replace it.

Sediment can clog water lines, making the water heater less efficient and shortening its lifespan. Flush the water heater twice a year.

Set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Set it as low as possible or turn off the water heater if you will be away for several days.

Insulate the pipes, TPR valve and temperature control.

Check the pilot flame and relight it if necessary.

Focus on routine maintenance to avoid a hefty bill for a new water heater.

How to Stage the Perfect Family Room

Your family room is one of the busiest places in your home. It’s where everyone hangs out (hence the name family room), whether it’s kids playing video games and binge-watching shows, parents taking a break to read or everyone in the household getting together for some quality time.

If your home is for sale, potential buyers will want to see a place where they can envision their family making years of memories together. That’s why it’s important to maximize your family room’s appeal with these tips.

Clean Everything 
These are basic but important steps. Start by dusting everything in the room. Clear the shelves of books, toys, collectibles and souvenirs from vacations, then start dusting. Vacuum the floor and clean the walls. If your paint job is looking a little worse for wear, consider giving the room a fresh coat.

Organize the Space 
It’s tough to keep a busy space like the family room neat and organized because so many people spend time there, but keeping it orderly is important when your home is on the market. Get rid of stuff you don’t need, like old toys and games and DVDs you no longer watch, to cut down on the clutter.

Keep Floors and Surfaces Clear 
If you have young kids, they may leave toys, crayons, books and even plates from their snacks on the floor. This isn’t acceptable when guests tour your for-sale home, so be vigilant about keeping the room clean. Buy stylish storage bins for toys and make sure the littles ones put back their playthings when they’re done using them.

Make It Cozy 
Staging the family room couch with some pillows and blankets is an easy and affordable way to add some color and style. It also sends the signal that this room is a great place where everyone in the household gets together to watch the big game on Sunday or during Saturday movie nights.

With your family room looking so inviting, it’s sure to help people realize that your home is the home they want to buy.

3 Reasons to Update BEFORE Selling

Is an Outdated Kitchen the Reason Your House Hasn't Sold?

For many prospective homebuyers, an outdated kitchen is a deal-breaker.

Some inexpensive upgrades may help you sell your house.

Repair damaged countertops or replace them with granite ones.

Replace an old sink and faucet and install an attractive backsplash.

If your kitchen has vinyl flooring, replace it with something more modern.

Install new appliances if necessary. If the existing appliances work, but just don’t look good, install new face panels.

If your cabinets are outdated but in good shape, repaint them and replace the hardware.

Improve lighting in the kitchen.

Ask your real estate agent for advice on kitchen upgrades that could help you sell your home.