Winter is coming. And as temperatures continue to drop, you’ll need to make sure that your home is ready to keep you warm and cozy.

Every homeowner needs a winter weather checklist. This should include items that are critical for maintaining a toasty house even when it’s nasty outside. When you’re putting together your winter weather checklist, heat pump maintenance should rank near the top.

This article takes a look at a list of things you’ll need to check to make sure that your heat pump runs properly this winter. Keep reading to learn all the details about heat pump efficiency.

1. Make Sure Your Thermostat Works

The first thing any homeowner needs to do is to check their thermostat. This is the heart of your home heating system. It’s important to make sure that the thermostat is working properly, otherwise, you could be wasting energy and paying more than necessary on your heating bill.

Quality thermostats are relatively inexpensive devices available at any home improvement store. Invest in a digital thermostat so that you’ll have a variety of helpful settings to choose from.

2. Change Your Filter

For your heat pump to function at optimal efficiency, it needs a clean filter. That’s because when the filter is dirty, the heat pump will have to work harder than necessary to heat your home.

And don’t forget that the quality of the air in your home depends on a clean filter. A dirty filter will recirculate dirty air, and this same dirty air will also be recirculated through the heat pump, which can ultimately cause it to wear out sooner.

Changing your heat pump filters every six to eight weeks is an easy and inexpensive way to help extend the life of your heat pump while also heating your home more efficiently. 

3. Defrost Your Heat Pump

When you inspect your heat pump, you might notice a bit of frost buildup. A little is fine and normal, and shouldn’t cause any problems. But too much frost might cause damage.

Ice builds up when condensation forms around the condenser and evaporator. When your unit becomes encased in a thick layer of frost or ice, you have a definite problem. 

Learning how to defrost a heat pump is relatively easy, will increase its ability to efficiently heat your home, and will help it last far longer.

Thus it’s wise to inspect your unit on a regular basis. It will only take a minute and could make the difference between a comfortable home or a long miserable winter.

4. Making Sure Gutters Can’t Leak on the Heat Pump

Here is a basic home maintenance tip that can help ensure that your heat pump remains in optimal running condition. 

Many heat pumps are located near gutters that direct runoff from the roof to the ground. The problem is when gutters are poorly installed or become damaged, thus allowing the runoff to leak directly onto the heat pump unit.

This can have a direct impact on the physical condition of the unit. After all, the unit is designed to withstand a minimal amount of abuse from typical weather conditions such as rain and snow, but excessive exposure to water drainage or debris can cause it to break down.

5. Make Sure Fan Motor Runs Properly

Go outside and listen to your heat pump while it’s running. Listen to it for a few moments. How does it sound? At most, you should hear a gentle hum that tells you everything is fine.

But if the fan sounds strange, such as rattling or grinding, this is a serious problem and will need to be looked at as soon as possible. A service professional can assess the situation and let you know whether the unit can be repaired or needs to be repaired.

6. Clean the Coils

The coils inside your unit are crucial to optimal operation, but it’s easy for them to get dirty when exposed to the elements. Take a look while the unit is off, and give the coils a quick cleaning if necessary.

7. Keep the Thermostat Set Below 65 Degrees in the Winter

The thermostat in your home shouldn’t be set to the same temperature year-round. The setting should be different when it’s warm out compared to when the weather gets chilly.

During the winter, go ahead and keep the thermostat set at 65 or a little lower, then bump it up to above 70 during the summer.

This will keep the unit from working too hard during the winter season, thus saving you as much money as possible on your monthly energy bill.

8. Keep Heat Pump Properly Elevated Off the Ground

Be sure to keep your heat pump elevated at least 4 inches off the ground. This allows air to circulate around the unit to keep it cool, and also prevents it from getting flooded if the water level around the house rises during a storm.

9. Clear Away Ice, Snow, and Any Other Debris 

It’s nearly impossible to overemphasize the importance of keeping your heat pump unit as clear as possible. This is a simple matter of keeping an eye on it, and clearing away any ice, snow, leaves, or branches that begin to accumulate.

Keeping the unit free of debris takes only a few minutes, and this will help it to run efficiently for years to come.

10. Have It Serviced by a Professional

And finally, a wise homeowner understands the value of having their heat pump serviced by a certified professional at least once a year. A trained contractor will know what to look for and can provide the type of care needed to maximize the life and heating efficiency of your unit.

Tops Tips for Proper Heat Pump Maintenance

When it comes to keeping your home feeling cozy and comfy during the winter, few things are more important than caring for your heating/cooling unit. That’s why this list of heat pump maintenance tips is so valuable for having the most comfortable winter possible.

Keep scrolling to see more great tips and advice for homeowners.

Having to take a cold shower or return from work to a freezing home is no fun. Unfortunately, unexpected breakdowns are a part of owning a home.

Your boiler has a huge responsibility, especially during cooler temperatures. It works to warm water and heat your entire house.

If you’ve noticed that your boiler stopped working, don’t panic. There are ways to troubleshoot the problem. Keep reading for some helpful tips.

Double Check the Thermostat 

Before you do anything else, a quick check of your thermostat can’t hurt. Someone may have accidentally turned it off. It may also be set to cool instead of heat.

If this isn’t the issue, trying setting your thermostat higher than the temperature in the house. If your boiler doesn’t come on, there’s definitely a bigger issue.

Your thermostat may also be running out of batteries. Look on the display screen for signs of flickering or a battery indicator signal.

Check the Pilot Light 

Most boilers have a pilot light that burns the gas that heats air and water. This small flame can go out from time to time.

You’ll first need to locate the pilot light. It’s usually near the bottom of the boiler.

You should see a knob that you can turn toward the pilot setting. Then, hold a long match or lighter up to the valve and it should light.

The Circuit Breaker 

If the pilot light isn’t the issue, you’ll need to check your circuit breaker. It may have tripped, meaning there’s no power going to your boiler.

Switch the breaker back on if you find that it tripped. Your boiler should come back on right away.

If you’re still having issues, it may be time to call a professional. Find a local boiler repair and installation company that understands electrical issues as well.

The Proper Water Level 

Boilers need to remain half full of water at all times. If yours has stopped working, there’s a chance it’s not filling up.

Most boilers today have an automatic system that’s controlled by a valve. If your boiler’s not filling, there may be an issue with this valve.

Try opening the valve manually to fill up the boiler. This may only be a temporary solution until a professional can have a look.

Look for Water Leaks

Several things can cause a boiler leak. This can result in the unit failing to come on or heat the water and air in your home.

Look for leaks on the boiler or the floor around the base. If you see water, try to locate the source of the leak.

If the leak is on the pressure valve, try releasing some of the water manually. A buildup of sediment can often cause a boiler leak.

Use These Tips if Your Boiler Stopped Working

It always helps to troubleshoot home repairs before calling in the professionals. You may end up saving money and learning something that will come in handy down the road.

If your boiler stopped working, use the tips discussed above to get to the bottom of the issue.

We hope this article has helped you out. Feel free to browse the rest of our site for more home improvement and DIY information.

In 2015, there were about 48.5 million rental properties in the United States. 

So many people are starting to own rental properties because they’ve realized how many benefits there are to doing so. 

Are you thinking about investing in rental properties? Here are 8 reasons why owning rental properties is a good thing.

1. Another Source of Income

Many people invest in rental properties as another source of income. This is probably one of the biggest benefits because you have a direct stream of money while you are still able to work at another job.

The monthly rental checks can go straight into your bank account and can help cover some of the costs of running the rental while still letting you pocket some of the money. 

If you rent out a property for only $1,000 a month, that’s $12,000 extra you make for the year. 

However, before you go out and buy a rental property, you should figure out what your gross income will be after all the fees, maintenance, and upkeep costs will be. 

2. Sweat Equity

When you have a rental property, you will most likely have sweat equity as well. This will add value to your property and make it worth more than it was when you purchased it.

Even small things like repainting your home, refurbishing the inside, and doing some basic landscaping can help your rental property look even better. This will add value to your home, and you will also be able to charge more rent for it as well. 

Once you’ve finished renting it out and you decide to sell it in the future, you should be able to sell it for more than you bought it for, making a profit off of it. 

If you love home improvement projects and are always looking for ways to make things better, getting a rental property may be a good idea for you.

You will also get a full say in what improvements you decide to do and how it all can look at the end of the day.   

3. More Security

Having a rental property also gives you some more security.

Sometimes people have to temporarily move for work, and they don’t want to leave their family home. They could buy a rental property to live in for a little while and then end up renting it out after they go back home. 

Having people rent your house will help it stay updated and also protect it from burglaries or vandalism. If you choose the right renters, you can rest assured that there are people taking care of it. 

It also gives you financial security. If something happens to your main source of income, you will know that you have a little bit of cushion to fall back on in.  

4. You Get to Make All the Decisions

When you own your own rental property, you can to make all the rules. You are in charge of your own investments, and you’re essentially your own boss.

You can choose which properties you want to invest in, which tenants to rent to, how much improvement to put into the house, and how much you can charge. 

If you hate a general 9 to 5 with a boss or manager, looking into becoming a rental property owner may be a great way to make a living.  

5. Tax Deductions

When you own a rental property, you also get a lot of tax deductions from the government.

If you own property, you can claim it on your tax return and get a lot of benefits. For example, the cash flow that your property brings in isn’t taxed!

6. Real Estate Appreciation

In addition to making improvements to your house and improving the value, the property will also appreciate naturally when you sell it.

The appreciation will depend on what the housing market is like at the time, so you will need to keep an eye on that if you’re thinking about selling it at some point.

You should do a little bit of research before you buy a property to make sure that the value will appreciate rather than depreciate. 

7. Investment Diversification

It’s always good to make investments to help diversify your income. However, it’s also important to have a lot of different investments so that you don’t put your eggs all in one basket.

You may already invest in the stock market, but renting a property help diversify your portfolio. It will also help give you a little bit more protection against risk in case one of the markets crashes. 

8. You Can Sell When It’s Convenient For You

You may not want to keep your rental property for forever, but the best part about owning one is that you can sell it when it’s convenient for you. 

If the market isn’t the best, you can hold onto it until it gets a little bit better. You don’t have to sell it for a loss but rather you can still gather rent checks until the market gets better. 

This way you are in more control of how much money you make off a property.  

Learn More About Owning Rental Properties

Owning rental properties can be a daunting task, but there are so many good reasons to do it. 

It can be a lot of work, but it’s a solid investment to make.

To learn how to make the most of your investment property, make sure you check out some of our other blog posts!

You don’t want to call in a professional to take care of everything, so you need to learn home improvement tricks to make your life easier.

Fixing up your home can be a lot of fun if you know what you’re doing and you can get some great results. Billions of dollars go into home improvements each year and doing some of the work yourself can help you save money when you’re improving your home.

Continue reading this article to learn home improvement tips that you can put to work right away.

Add Improvements that Add Maximum Value to Your Home

You likely have a lot of things you want to get done in your home. Do you upgrade the blinds? Do you tile the kitchen floor?

When you can’t figure out which project to tackle first, consider which project will make your home more valuable. While painting the walls might make the house look different, it isn’t necessarily going to increase the value of the home.

On the other hand, if you remodel the bathroom and put in a new shower, that is likely to make your home more valuable.

You never know when you might want to sell your home and making sure it is as valuable as possible is a good home improvement strategy.

Some of the home improvements that can add value to your home are:

• Garage Door Upgrades
• Stone Veneers
• Adding Decking
• Siding Replacement

These improvements don’t have to break the bank but that can make a big impact.

Take Care of Projects That Are Time Sensitive

Some projects might be more time-sensitive than others. If you want to get a swimming pool and spring and summer are quickly approaching, you might want to tackle this project ASAP.

If you wait too long to get your swimming pool, it might be time to winterize it by the time you get it completed.

Look at your list of projects and see which ones are affected by the seasons. You should also look to see which ones might be making an impact on your energy usage as well.

Doing a project like upgrading your windows can help you keep more heater in during the winter and the cool inside during the summer. If you need to decrease your energy costs then this might be the best project to start with.

Know If It’s a DIY Project or If You Should Call a Pro

One of the best home improvement tricks is knowing when you can DIY a project — and when you can’t! If you try to take on a project that you simply can’t tackle on your own, you won’t be doing yourself any favors.

Assess your skills and the skills of your friends and family that would work with you on the project. If no one has undertaken this project and it is something that could be dangerous, don’t DIY it.

While you might be hoping to save money on your project, the opposite could be the case if you end up breaking something important or end up electrocuting someone.

Crack a Home Improvement Book

If you do find a project that you think you can handle, the best thing you can do is to crack a home improvement book. Yes, we love YouTube as much as the next person but sometimes a book is best.

Reading a book that goes in-depth on the project you want to take care of can help you avoid common mistakes and set you off on the right path. There are plenty of “dummies” books that you can find related to home improvement that will be able to help you as you’re beginning your project.

Plan Out Your Project

While planning might seem boring, you need to plan if you want your project to go smoothly.

Do measurements of the space that you’re going to be working on, draw out the building plans and get all necessary supplies and tools together. You might want to draw out multiple options for the project to see which one is going to serve you the best.

When you’re drawing out your plans, include all doors, windows, floor vents, electrical outlets and anything else that might be in the floor or along the walls. You don’t want to start building and have to change your whole plan because you forgot to make note of a small detail.

If you’ve already begun building, you could waste thousands of dollars having to reposition essential elements of the room.

Learn How to Take Care of Common Challenges

Look for warning signs that something could be going wrong in various areas of your home such as the foundation, faucets, windows or other areas of the house. If you believe these challenges are good DIY opportunities then prepare to take care of them ahead of time.

Some of the projects you should know how to do around the home are things like:

• Simple Toilet Fixes
• Replacing Shower Heads
• Clearing Out Gutters
• Changing Out Filters

and other small projects. If you can avoid calling a professional to do these small things, you’ll have more money left over for your remodels and renovations.

Use These Home Improvement Tricks to Upgrade Your Space

Now you can use these home improvement tricks to upgrade your space without a lot of fuss. Do you still want to learn more about home improvement and other closely related topics?

Our site is full of articles that can help you as you’re improving your home. Browse our site, find a section that interests you and drop a bookmark to come back for more.

House foundation issues if left unresolved can cost you over $50,000 in the long term. This is because of the gradual damages to other features in your house. Cracks on your walls, ceiling, and floor may be an indicator of probable foundation damages. 

However, it is not always definitive that these cracks will be easily detectable through your naked eyes. House foundation problems are no joking matter. And they can be detrimental to your home. 

Learn how to spot the most common signs of foundation issues today.

1. Focus On the Sagging Floors and Ceilings 

Warped ceilings and deformed floors can be the clearest indicator that your house may have foundation issues. As your home’s foundation begins to tilt, the movement affects the stability of your wall. The instability gradually causes continuing damage on the ceiling. 

Any damage to the foundation of the house causes unevenness in specific spots in your home. If you spot slanted floors, or the ceiling begins to show signs of distortion, it could mean potential foundation issues. You may use a level to monitor the slopes on your house from time to time.

If the signs of the warped up ceiling and the slopes on the floor persist, then it’s time to call in a professional. You don’t want to risk the effects of extreme damage to the foundation. 

2. The Musty Smell in the Basement Could Be a Tell-Tale Sign

You may have ruled out such musty smells in your basement hoping they won’t persist past few days.  However, if this has been happening for more than just a week, it could be a sign of a bigger problem with your foundation. You would hope to wish away musty smells and crawl spaces as possible causes of a leak in your basement.

In the worst-case scenario, however, these signs may be an indication of cracks right down to the foundation. House foundation problems may manifest in the form of moisture seeping in through the cracks in your foundation. If this is the cause of the resultant odor, then it is possible that your foundation needs urgent interventions.

Not too fast, though. You may also need to assess other factors such as blocked gutters. If the dampness in the basement is a result of foundation issues, the musty odor will persist even after the blocked gutters are unblocked.

 3. Cracks in the Interior Sheetrock 

Evaluating the interior sheetrock can be a critical guide when assessing the state of the foundation in your house. However, this may require a keen eye to identify the difference between the original state of the interior sheetrock and the distorted state. If the interior sheetrock has cracks that are zigzagging, then this may spell trouble.

The extent of the damage to the foundation may be dire if the zigzagging cracks run the entire stretch to the height of the wall. In case, the wallpaper décor on your wall begins to pull away, this may be a sign of tilting wall. This may be caused by movements at the foundation level.   

It would be advisable that you reach out to a professional at this point to ascertain if such damages may require immediate interventions. 

4. Test Your Doors and Windows

Are you experiencing challenges when closing or opening doors and windows?  The stubborn windows or doors could be a sign that there may be foundation issues in the building. 

Well, at times, such challenges only require slight WD-40 interventions. But if you have noticed that over time such problems keep persisting, this could be probable foundation damages signs. 

If your foundation is unstable, there may be gradual shifts. The shifts are likely to cause distortions on she shape of the frame over time. The progressive deformities eventually make the latching of the doors and the windows harder.

In the end, your casements and door system may jam entirely making access and exit into the house a challenge. Seeking immediate interventions may be critical if you detect such problems related to repeated cases of jammed doors.

5. If You Notice Gaps Between Counters and Cabinets

One of the common signs of foundation issues you need to look out for is gaps around cabinet frames. Frames are set up to correspond with the fittings and measurements in your house during construction. This means that the presence of gaps around the counters and cabinets that separate from the walls may be an indicator of shifting ground. 

The counters and cabinets in your home may be forming gaps as they separate from the walls due to foundational tilts. Your initial observation may indicate a slight movement. However, as the gaps widen, you may be shocked at the extent of damage to your foundation.

If the gaps persist, then something may be affecting your foundation, and it may be time to seek interventions.

6. Presence of Mold May Be One of the Common  Signs of Foundation Issues

Have you noticed a recurrence of mold around the corners of windows and walls in your house lately? As with mildew around the basement, this may mean leakages that require the interventions of a plumber. However, this may also be a sign than there are underlying house foundation problems that you need to deal with as soon as possible.

7. Presence of Bowed Walls 

One of the signs of foundation problems in your house may be noticeable bowed walls. If you have noted over time that your home has been experiencing bowed walls, it could mean that your foundation is moving. The paint blisters on your wall may often be mistaken for bending.

But, a professional house foundation contractor may guide you on which kind of wall bowing relates to foundation issues. 

8. Observable Nail Pops Out Of Drywall

Have you noted recurrent nail pops in your drywall in recent times? Well, this may be an indication of probable wall movements. In some cases, these nail pops may be easy to fix if the causes are related to other concerns other than foundation issues.

However, if the issue is recurrent, you need to contact a foundation repair expert to assess your foundation. The assessment may be useful to detect the possible problems that may be affecting the stability and to provide a probable intervention measure. 

If You Notice Any of These Signs, it is Time to Prepare for Foundation Repairs

Your safety and that of your family is paramount. If either of these signs of foundation issues become evident, it may be critical to seek the advice and involvement of a reliable house foundation repair company. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to make drastic interventions. 

Explore our blog section for expert advice on all your real estate related inquiries and concerns.  

Winter is almost here. That means it’s going to start getting cold outside. As the temp drops, you might begin to notice an increase in your energy bill each month. After all, your furnace will start working harder to keep your home warm and cozy.

Fortunately, it’s possible to reduce your winter energy bill by learning how to save money on electricity. 

This article is full of great tips to help you lower your power bill. Keep reading to learn quick and easy ways to save money as Mother Nasty brings on chilly weather.

Open Your Window Blinds

This tip might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s a great way to help warm your house without spending a dime. After all, plenty of nice warm sunshine is outside just waiting to make your rooms a little more toasty.

Keeping your blinds open during the day not only lets outside warmth in, but the sunlight is also great for improving mood.

So open those blinds and feel the sunlight on your face, breathe in the healthy rays, and let your smile shine.

Check Doors and Windows for Leaks

Here is a basic tip that many people fail to consider. Your doors and windows are your primary defense against cold outside temperatures. If you’ve ever stood beside a drafty door or window, you know exactly what we are talking about.

There’s nothing worse than a cold draft. Fortunately, there are some simple solutions for taking care of this problem.

The first step is to check each of your doors and windows and identify which ones are drafty. Next, inspect for the exact areas where the draft is coming in. Once you’ve isolated the problem spots, remove the old weather stripping and replace with brand new weather stripping that will better insulate the interior of your home against leaks.

This is an inexpensive way to make sure that cold air stays outside, and your warm air stays inside. You’ll be amazed at the difference this one simple tip can have on your energy bill.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

The thermostat in your home is probably something you rarely think about. And yet this is an item you need to pay attention to, especially if you notice a rising energy bill.

Thermostats break just like any other device. That’s why we recommend upgrading to a digital thermostat that will give you more control over the interior environment in your home.

Quality digital thermostats are available for a modest price at any home improvement store, and this is an investment that will pay for itself many times over for years to come.

Take Shorter Showers

Another easy way to save money on your energy bill is to simply take shorter showers. When each member of the family cuts their time in the shower by even a few minutes, this will help save hundreds of gallons of hot water every month.

These tips will not only save money on your energy costs, but it will also reduce the amount of water you waste, which is great for the environment.

Thus we recommend lathering up and rinsing offers as quickly as possible so that you can then cut back on water usage while getting the same results. This is a small change with a huge environmental impact.

Replace Your Air Filters

Replacing the air filter in your furnace, heat pump, or HVAC unit is crucial for helping your heating system run efficiently. Fortunately, quality air filters are relatively inexpensive, and replacing them is a simple task anyone can do.

Most heating/cooling experts recommend replacing your air filters every couple of months. This will help your system heat and cool your home more effectively, thus helping save money on your energy bill.

Upgrade Your Old Windows

Windows aren’t designed to last forever. The materials get old and break down as they take decades of abuse from harsh weather conditions.

Thus windows eventually need to be replaced in order to maximize your ability to effectively heat and cool your home. 

Upgrading your windows to modern energy-efficient models will contribute to savings on your monthly energy bill, while also keeping your home nice and toasty in the winter and cool in the summer.

Turn Down Your Water Heater

Here’s another tip that only takes a few minutes, yet it will help trim a few dollars from your heating bill. Simply take a moment to turn down the temp on your water heater.

You can also have a trained heating/cooling professional like Mountain City Electric do this during their annual visit to your home.

Get in the Habit of Turning Off Lights

Are you the type of person who likes to turn on every light in the house at once? Here’s a news flash: stop doing that!

Leaving lights on in empty rooms is a terrible habit. You are literally wasting energy for no reason. 

Get in the habit of turning off lights when you leave a room. This only tasks a second, and will result in major savings on your energy bill. 

Switch to LED Lightbulbs

Take a look at the lightbulbs in every room of your house. Are they traditional bulbs or new energy-efficient bulbs. Swapping out old bulbs for the LED variety is smart and environmentally friendly.

You might spend up a bit more upfront, but you’ll save a ton of cash in the long run because LEDs last longer and use far less energy.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water

And finally, remember to wash your clothes in cold water. Again, this tip might not seem like a big deal, and yet choosing to not use hot water for laundry can help save a few more dollars on your heating bill. 

Simple Yet Effective Tips for How to Save Money on Electricity

When it comes to your monthly energy bill, every dollar matters. That’s why learning these tips on how to save money on electricity is so important.

Keep scrolling to see more great real estate tips and advice.

In 2019 pre-manufactured homes are an $11 billion industry.

Empty-nesters, millennials who face soaring home prices, or those who want to be mortgage-free are all looking at modular or mobile homes instead of traditional housing.

But what are the differences between a modular home vs. mobile home? Are there advantages to one over the other? Read on to find out.

Mobile Homes

Also known as manufactured homes, mobile homes are built on a steel frame in an indoor, home-building facility.

Typically, these are set on cement blocks or metal pylons but can also be set on a foundation. Keep in mind that there are strict federal regulations and codes that mobile homes must abide by during construction.

These homes let people enjoy homeownership for a fraction of the cost. Plus, there are countless customization options to get the home exactly how you want. King-sized beds, quartz counters – it’s all possible in a mobile home.

Check out these mobile homes for sale to get an idea of what you can expect.

Modular Homes

A modular home has some similarities to a mobile home. For one thing, modular homes are pre-manufactured homes.

Modular homes are often built in sections. Depending on the size and design you choose, your modular home could be built in two, three, four or five sections.

The individual sections of modular homes are built in a climate-controlled home building facility.

These homes conform to all state, local and regional codes that apply based on the final location of the home. This is exactly the same as for traditionally site-built homes.

Once the sections are ready, they are transported to the final location on truck beds where they are joined together using cranes and placed on a permanent foundation. 

A building inspector might need to complete an inspection of the home once it is joined and in place. The inspector checks that the finished home meets all safety requirements and other standards. 

One of the best things about modular homes is that they continue to appreciate in value over time.

Main Differences Between Mobile Vs Modular Homes 

Usually, modular homes are placed on permanent foundations and have full basements, unlike mobile homes.

Also, modular homes are often larger and have full kitchens and washer and dryer hookups. Many even have fireplaces and dishwashers. 

Modular home vs. mobile homes tends to be more expensive per square foot. Yet, you can also opt for various upgrades like a sunroom, porch and a garage.

With both, you have lots of customization options and flexibility and of course, a lower total cost than buying a site-built house. 

Modular Home Vs. Mobile Home

Now you know the main differences between modular home vs. mobile home. Hopefully, this will help you in making the right decision on which type of home to choose.

Come back again soon for more great content on real estate, properties, home improvements and more.  

In 2018, 32.4 million Americans moved.

That’s a whopping 10.1% of the population. It’s stressful and involves packing and carrying tons of heavy boxes. 

And it can get expensive.

The average cost for a family to move long distance runs somewhere around $5,630. Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep more cash in your pocket. Read on to learn the cheapest way to move long distance.

The Secret Behind the Cheapest Way to Move Long Distance

The best way to move across the country involves intense preparation. That’s all it really boils down to.

Too many people underestimate how long it’ll take to pack up their clothes and belongings, or how much money it’ll cost for all the little things like gas and food. Expenses like this add up fast.

If a bit (and by a bit, a lot) of research and planning is used, essential costs can be factored, and extra costs weeded out.

7 Steps to Slash Moving Costs

The cheapest way to move cross country involves several steps. If you follow all of the tips provided, your savings should begin to stack up.

Step 1: KonMari your belongings in advance. 

Sort through your overstuffed closet, dust-ridden storage, and mountains of toys your kids have outgrown. Fewer boxes mean a smaller moving truck, which in turn leads to a less expensive ordeal.

Step 2: Sell, sell, sell. 

Put money back where it belongs to help fund the move. Sell any unwanted belongings that hold monetary value. Facebook Marketplace is a great resource to sell your items locally and quickly.

Step 3: Choose a move-out date that’s during slow times. 

The holidays, weekends, and the end of the month are the most expensive times to move. Also, from May to September, the moving industry tends to be busier, inflating costs. Instead, aim to move on a weekday during the off-season, like late winter.

Step 4: Use a professional moving service. 

Pro movers know how to make everything go smoothly and can contend with issues you might overlook. President and CEO of the American Moving & Storage Association, Scott Michael, says a professional mover will save you valuable time and effort, and also afford protection for your precious belongings.

Step 5: Be a smart shopper. 

Don’t just settle for the first moving company your Google search pulls up. Compare at least three different companies to find the best price. Also, look for certification to make sure they’re legitimate, like what Small Movers of Wichita KS has mentioned on their About page.

Step 6: Research discounts. 

Sometimes, long-distance moving companies run exclusive deals on their prices during the off-season. Also, if you’re a veteran or an active military member, some moving companies offer discounts.

Step 7: Eat cheap.

Driving cross-country can work up quite the appetite. If you dine out for every meal after several hours or days on the road, that can add up to quite the hefty bill.

Instead, invest in an ice chest and pack food and drinks. There are plenty of rest stops with beautiful scenery to take advantage of.

Settle in and Enjoy

Follow these steps, and you’ll attain the cheapest way to move long distance. Furthermore, you’ll be far less stressed and have more time to handle other tasks.

Moving is a pain. But with a little careful planning and the use of a professional service to handle possible costly difficulties, it’ll be far more bearable and cheaper.

Be sure to check out other articles to discover all the ways unexpected costs and missteps can pop up out of nowhere.

According to experts, performing home repairs and renovations can cost between $3,987 and $18,392.

This cost varies depending on your location and the job performed. However, you can avoid major repairs by staying on top of your home maintenance.

It all comes down to taking care of your home instead of waiting until it’s too late. While it may seem difficult, you can keep your home in top shape by following the best maintenance tips for homeowners.

Want to learn how to avoid costly repairs?

Here are the 5 best tips to help you stay on top of your home maintenance today.

1. Clean Your Gutters

It may take you some time, but you should clean your gutters at least twice a year.

Cleaning them in the spring and fall is the best practice to prevent any damages.

You can remove any leaves by hand and flush your gutters by using a hose to remove any debris left.

2. Inspect Your Roof

Homeowners tend to notice roof damage when it’s too late.

While you can get on a ladder and inspect it, you may consider using a drone with a camera to take a close look at your roof.

Broken, cracked, and missing shingles are signs of roof damage you should repair as soon as you can. Once you notice these signs, you should contact a roofing expert to survey your roof and repair any damages.

3. Trim Your Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs in your surrounding areas offer shade and keep your home cool.

However, these trees are also home to squirrels and other animals that can damage your roof and attic.

You should trim them every once in a while to prevent costly home repairs. You may also consider including your tree care as part of your seasonal home maintenance prep.

4. Flush and Inspect Your Water Systems

Homeowners worry about their water systems when something goes wrong.

However, you should flush and inspect them routinely to prevent damages to your pipes and water heater.

If a water well is part of your water systems, you may think you don’t have to worry about it after installing it. Yet, you should also inspect and perform regular maintenance to prevent serious damages.

Consider hiring a company to perform any well pump repair or preventative maintenance to avoid an expensive repair.

5. Check Your Home’s Exterior and Seal Any Cracks

No matter the season, you should always inspect your home’s exterior.

Look for any cracks surrounding your windows and doors.

Caulking your doors and windows will help you lower your utility bill. You may also consider adding insulation materials to your windows or even attic to keep your house cooler during the summer.

Will Our Maintenance Tips for Homeowners Help You Avoid Unnecessary Repairs?

Following our maintenance tips for homeowners can help you avoid costly repairs in the long run.

Inspecting your house from time to time will allow you to pinpoint any issues before it’s too late.

Consider establishing a routine to get your home ready for every season. Seasonal home maintenance will prevent uncomfortable situations (such as finding out your HVAC is faulty when temperatures rise in the middle of summer).

Don’t leave it until it’s too late. Stay on top of your home maintenance today!

Did you find this article interesting? Check out the rest of our site for more insightful articles.

A manufactured home provides people with affordable housing and the freedom to become homeowners without breaking the bank.

If you’re considering the pros and cons of buying a mobile home, there are a few important things to think about.

Read on to discover some of the many ways mobile homes are a fantastic alternative to traditional homes along with a few pitfalls to be aware of.

Mobile Home Financing Facts

Unlike a traditional home, manufactured homes have different financing options outside of the norm. Most banks will not offer standard mortgages on mobile homes.

In most cases, you must own the land underneath the mobile home and have it titled as real property. The home must be attached to a permanent foundation and cannot be on wheels in order for most lenders to finance it.

Some banks will allow financing on mobile homes if they’re on leased land. However, this type of loan is not considered a mortgage and is called a “chattel loan.”

All manufactured homes must have a HUD data plate visible and attached at all times. They must meet certain standards and criteria before they can be appraised and financed.

It’s always a good idea to purchase a new one from a reputable mobile home dealer rather than buying a used one. This will ensure that your manufactured home is new and built to the current HUD regulations and standards.

The Cost Pros and Cons of Buying a Mobile Home

In terms of affordability, mobile homes are usually much less expensive than a stick-built house. The process to build a manufactured home is faster and uses less labor and waste, keeping costs down for the buyer.

You can find mobile home resellers in most areas of the country where you can pick out your floor plan and other features. Because these homes are built indoors, they’re easier to erect and a lot quicker.

The manufactured home builder passes these cost savings onto the customer. Since everything is done by the same set of standards, it’s much less expensive to build these types of homes.

Make sure you do your homework and shop around before you commit to a specific manufacturer. Some brands are better than others and offer quality materials and finishes that are similar to traditional homes.

Overall, it’s much easier to afford a mobile home for most buyers. Just be aware of the cost for land, transporting the home, and any other features you may need since these can add up quickly.

Construction Pros of Mobile Homes 

Thanks to the factory-built design, mobile homes are not susceptible to things like wetness and weather. This means the home is built in a controlled environment from start to finish, so there’s less risk of structural damage.

Manufactured homes are built on an assembly line using a specified floor plan and materials. This means that each home is built to a certain set of standards that do not deviate.

As a buyer, this also means you won’t have to worry about subcontractors and time delays. With a mobile home, your house is constructed on a set timeline and every person who touches it is a direct employee of the manufacturer.

Standard homes often undergo issues like timeline extensions, problems with contractors, and theft of materials. Since a manufactured home is built in the factory, you don’t have to worry about anyone stealing anything from the site.

Cons of Owning a Mobile Home

While mobile homes are affordable and offer alternatives to traditional housing, there are a few negative aspects of owning these types of houses. First, mobile homes are more difficult to finance and usually only offer the buyer high-interest rate, short-term loans.

If you don’t own the land under your mobile home, the person or company who does can raise the cost to lease the land at any time. This issue often puts homeowners at a disadvantage and forces many people out of their homes since they can no longer afford the cost to rent the land.

Most manufactured homes are not built to the same standard as a stick-built home. This means that materials and finishes are not as durable and may not last as long as they would in a traditional home.

If you’re shopping for a mobile home, keep in mind that they usually only come in a single floor, ranch style. If you have a large family and want a two-story home, mobile homes may not be for you.

When a mobile home is placed on a temporary foundation, it’s more prone to damage from things like flooding and high winds. Make sure you choose a home that can and will be attached to a permanent foundation for better durability.

Mobile homes are similar to vehicles in that they can quickly depreciate in value. If you’re looking for a home as an investment, these types of houses might not be right for you.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Mobile Home Buying

If you already have some land that you own, a mobile home can be an affordable way to have your own house. For those seeking a great deal, these types of houses can offer you a place to live without paying thousands in rent each month.

Weigh the pros and cons of buying a mobile home carefully before you make a decision. The more you know about these types of homes, the better prepared you’ll be in the future.

Visit our website today for more information about properties throughout the Miami, Florida area.