The front door is the most common entry point that burglars use to break into homes.

That’s why we all must take extra precautions to improve our front door security. It’s an important step for every homeowner to ensure their home and their family are safe against intruders.

To learn more about how to do this, keep reading. The steps below are sure to leave you and your family feeling safer.

1. Upgrade Your Locks

How long has it been since you’ve installed new locks? Do you know the durability of your locks?

At the very least, you want a lock that comes with a deadbolt, as that’s what does the most work when someone tries to break in. You also want something made of thick metal so that it doesn’t bend in at the slightest of pressure.

Even mobile home doors need a strong and high-quality lock, so make sure to upgrade right away!

2. Install a Solid-Core Door

Do knocks on your front door sound hollow? This is a good indicator that your door doesn’t have a solid core. When someone attempts to break in through your front door, a hollow door isn’t going to do much to stop them.

A solid core, on the other hand, is sturdier. It only splinters and cracks when a person tries to break in, rather than crumbling and creating a big gap.

3. Light Up the Area

Always have a front door light to ward off any would-be burglars. It’s a great deterrent as it shines a spotlight on any of the terrible deeds the burglar is up to. They’re less inclined to continue if they feel exposed. 

Installing a light system is one of the easiest front door security measures any homeowner can take.

4. Invest in Wider Peepholes

One of the ways that burglars force entry is by ringing the doorbell and hiding. They wait to barge their way in once you’ve cracked open the door to see who’s there.

One of the best ways to prevent this is to have a peephole that allows for a wider view. Most peepholes allow for a narrow view of the area in front of the door, but with a wider view, you’ll have no reason to open the door to check.

5. Make Use of Longer Screws

A lot of different door installations use shorter screws for things like the lock and the hinges. The problem is that these shorter screws are flimsy and easier to bend out of place.

Use screws that measure around 3 inches in length to get the most strength out of your door. These longer screws hold in place much more than the ¾ inch screws in most common doors.

Even exchanging a single hinge screw for a longer one improves a door’s hinge strength by a lot.

Never Neglect Front Door Security

No matter how nice your neighborhood may appear, it’s a good idea to always have front door security in mind. Always ensure you lock your door and that it’s in good condition.

These simple steps go a long way to provide security for you and your family.

Check out the rest of our blog for more home improvement information!

The United States consumes about 17% of the world’s energy. With a growing interest in renewable energy, it’s no secret that solar panels are a great addition to your home’s energy plan.

Solar panels are known to be a growing energy source that help to reduce harmful greenhouse emissions. Solar energy savings also help alleviate expensive electric bills each month.  

Read on to see just how investing in solar panels will help you save in the long run.

Estimating Your Monthly Costs

You might be wondering just how much money solar panels can really save you each month. The answer depends entirely on your specific electricity needs, and how much you use each month.

The first step to determining how much you’ll save is to calculate your current spendings. This will help estimate how much solar energy can reduce your bill.

You may also want to take note of your area’s current electricity rates. Some areas have fluctuating energy costs, but it’s clear that energy rates across the country are rising.

With solar energy, you’ll be getting consistent energy and eliminating wavering costs every year. 

It’s important to know that installing solar panels does not always make your entire energy bill go away.

Impact On Your Energy Bill

If you’re fortunate enough to be located in an area that receives plenty of sun, chances are you will be able to generate enough energy to cancel out your bill. 

However, you may still receive an energy bill for any electricity used during a time when your panels were not receiving enough sun.

Days that are overcast might result in pulling some power from the grid. The night time is usually when people pull the most energy. 

But a recently introduced policy called net metering allows you to conserve unused solar energy for later use. Any surplus solar energy is sent back into the grid and credit is sent to your account in return. 

Tax Incentives

Though the bulk of your costs will be upfront with the installation of solar panels, there are different ways to cut down the costs. Installation rates depend on a few factors. 

Evaluating your home’s location and roof status is the first step to determining how many panels you’ll need. A solar panel calculator can help determine how much direct sunlight your desired installation area provides.

Many states will offer tax incentives, so researching your local area’s policies is key to saving more. 

You’ll want to research which solar company works best in your area. You’ll also want to choose a solar company that can help cut down installation fees as well as guide you in the permitting process. 

Solar Energy Savings

Switching to solar energy helps reduce harmful carbon emissions and allows you to enjoy massive solar energy savings.

If you’re looking to relocate to a new home with solar energy potential, check our page for listings.

Homeownership is a massive step forward in your life and you might have more options on it than you think. Have you ever considered building your own home instead of buying one?

The decision on whether to build versus buy can be a difficult one. A lot of people don’t even know where to begin in either direction.

Today we can hammer out the pros and cons of building and buying so you can make the most informed decision on your homeownership. 

The Big Decision on Whether to Build Versus Buy

No matter your choice, this decision is dealing with the potential of a few hundred thousand dollars. Make sure your finances are in order to tackle the large expenses you will need for this.

No matter which choice you make, this is a major investment and you should treat it like such. 

Buying a Home

From scouring the markets and checking out potential neighborhoods, buying a home is about digging for the best fit that is waiting for you. The time it may take to find that can be exhausting, but stumbling upon a dream home can be worth it.

1. Convenience

Without the need for building contractors, land permits, or design ideas, buying a home gives you a lot of conveniences. It is as simple as finding a home on the market and putting in an offer. 

2. Saving Money

Speaking of contractors and permits, building a home is not cheap. Land increases by the day and good property can go for a much as a house at times. 

As well, you are paying for not only the actual house but all the labor that goes into it. That also means dealing with a number of contractors, each with a cost for their services. It adds up fast. 

Building a Home

Envisioning your dream home on a particular plot of land can be a creative wonderland. If you have a specific vision and a plot of land in mind, building a home goes as far as you are willing to push for it. 

1. True Customization

When building a home, the only restriction is your ability to say yes. Every angle and screw and color can be your decision if you have the resources to say yes.

Good contractors can work with whatever specializations you can ask for, making every detail perfect. Solid contractors like Tiger Roofing LLC are great picks for a custom home. 

You may do the same amount of search as buying a house to find the right land and contractors. Once building starts, though, you are in control. 

2. Avoids Damages of Older Houses

A brand new house will have guarantees that an older house cannot give. You know it is up to code, you know the materials are new with no rot or damages.

Older electrical wiring and building materials can make a bought home filled with tiny expenses that can come out of the woodwork at any unexpected time. 

Homeownership Done Right

The build versus buy debate all comes down to what you want and what you can afford. Sometimes you find the dream house you want to build ready and waiting in an area you wanted. 

Balancing the right costs and benefits still boils down to how well you organize and deal with your finances. We here at Sky Five Properties have other guides to help you sort out housing finances and more. Check them out today. 

Some people dream of having a nice inheritance but the fact of the matter is that, when the time comes, it is a very serious matter that needs to handled properly.

Just like buying a house, when you inherit property there many details that you have to consider. Plus, there are often complications with other parties that can make you feel like you’re in over your head.

Fortunately, there are solutions and you’re not alone. Read on to learn what experts say you should do if you are inheriting property.

From One Generation To The Next

When we pass down our most treasured belongings to the next generation, we are entrusting them to carry on our legacy. If someone has included you in their will, they clearly thought highly enough of you.

Sometimes, unexpected events occur and we find ourselves inheriting a house. Although these are often difficult times, it is important to know how to move forward.

What to Do After You Inherit Property

This can be disconcerting for some people, especially those with less experience dealing with real estate. Not to worry, here are our tips for what to do with your newly inherited house.

Review the Terms

Did you inherit the house yourself or did you and your three siblings inherit it? 

Hopefully, it will be possible to come up with an amicable agreement but this can be difficult and tensions can flare. This is because many houses or particular objects have deep sentimental value.

Clearly, you are going to have to understand very well the terms of the inheritance.

Keeping Up the Appearances

After you inherit a house, it will likely be vacant for some time. It is important to make sure that the city, gas companies, etc. are aware that you own the house and will be using it.

Otherwise, they will cut off the lights and getting everything back on will be a hassle.

Decide Your Goal

You have to make a decision. Basically, you have three options.

You can live there, rent it, or sell your house. Each option has its clear advantages and disadvantages.

There may be a lot of hidden costs associated with living in the house, as we will mention later. Also, renting it can be time-consuming and stressful so be aware of what you are getting yourself into.

Get Legal Help

Don’t go it alone. Given how tedious and complicated the process can be, it is best to get help from an estate lawyer with experience in these kinds of transactions.

Watch Out For Hidden Costs

Sometimes, free can actually be a little expensive. Inherited properties may have you spending a bit of money.

For example, you may have to pay for repairs, inheritance tax on property, and owed taxes. These are important things to consider when deciding whether to sell or not.

Make The Most of Your Inheritance

It can be a life-changing event to inherit property, but it also comes with responsibility. 

If you find yourself in this situation, make sure you take the time to consider your options. Be aware of your rights and, if possible, get legal help!

Roofing tiles are one of the most popular choices of roofing material out there. If you’re looking to replace or update your roof, you can’t go far wrong by choosing tiles.

However, there are many different types of roofing tiles available on the market, each with its own pros and cons. Read on to see a list of the most common tiles and their advantages, which can help you choose the best one for your home. 

Metal Tiles

Roofing tiles that are made out of metal are much more durable than their asphalt shingle counterparts. They can withstand heavy winds without lifting off but are not heavy enough to require additional roof support. 

Further, some types of metal, like aluminum and copper, will not rust. This can help reduce the amount of maintenance that you’ll have to do on a metal tile roof in the long run. 

The major downside of choosing to install metal tiles is their added cost when compared to asphalt, as well as the noise they can create. If not properly insulated, metal roofs can be extremely loud when it rains, hails, or snows. So while you may not need roofing supports added, you may still need to do some extra work on a metal tile roof to prevent an extremely noisy interior. 

Stone Tiles

On the other hand, you can also install stone tiles on your roof. Most commonly made out of slate, these roofing tiles are one of the longest-lasting materials on the market, and can last upwards of 100 years before they need to be replaced. 

However, due to their added weight, they can be quite difficult to install, which is why you should always talk to a contractor. A roofing professional will be able to install your roof properly, which reduces the risk of leaks and damage developing later on and saves you money as a result.  Michael La Pointe from Point Roofing and Restoration (http://prr247.com) says that because replacing a roof can cost homeowners thousands of dollars, you’ll want to make sure your new roof will last for as long as possible.

Ceramic Tiles

Another common type of roofing tile is the ceramic tile. Made out of baked clay, ceramic roofing tiles are rot, pest, and fire-resistant, and can withstand heavy winds without being torn away, just like metal and stone. Since they are baked out of clay, they come in a range of different shades and shapes, which can give your home a more unique look.

Another downside of ceramic tiles is that they are relatively brittle. This means that you won’t be able to walk on your roof to do work or maintenance, as you run the risk of cracking individual tiles. It also means that the tiles are more likely to break if hit by falling debris in a storm. 

Choosing Between Different Types of Roofing Tiles Depends on Your Home’s Location

The types of roofing tiles that you choose for your home will have to depend on the climate that you live in, as well as what roofing material you are replacing. If your clay tile roof just recently fell apart, you may want to switch to another, more durable material. 

For more information about roofing and home improvement, check out the Home Improvement section of our blog.

When remodeling a kitchen, most people think upgrading their countertops to granite or marble is a no-brainer. Yet, the unique perks of quartz stone have recently been giving them a run for their money, gaining in popularity.

The engineered stone made from natural quartz combines the beauty of stone with undeniable strength and durability. It’s like getting the best of all countertops rolled into one.

To help you see why you need quartz stone for your next project, let’s look at 5 benefits of quartz countertops.

1. Extremely Durable

Kitchen countertops can take a lot of abuse. With quartz, you never have to worry about it showing wear and tear. In fact, some would describe it as almost indestructible!

That’s because quartz is a very hard material. Largely composed of minerals (more than other stone), it’s combined with resin to make it a solid work surface. It resists scratches, chips, and cracks from everyday use.

When compared to other countertop options, it’s hard to beat the strength and durability of quartz stone.

2. Super Low Maintenance

Most people are too busy to worry about sealing their countertops every so often. Buffing out scratches or trying to remove stains only add to the maintenance.

You never have to worry about that with quartz stone. It requires little to no maintenance to keep it looking great.

A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and soap is all it takes. Quartz is a material you never have to seal, plus its stain resistant!

3. It’s Non-Porous

Since quartz stone consistent largely of minerals combined with resin, it makes it a non-porous material. That means if you spill anything on the countertop, it won’t seep into the stone.

Unlike marble and granite, quartz doesn’t have small capillaries that run through the stone. With no openings for liquid or other materials to soak into, quartz is stain resistant.

The solid material also makes it impossible for germs and bacteria to make their way into the stone. Your quartz countertops will always be stain-free and easy to disinfect.

4. Looks Great

Unlike stone where what you see is what you get, engineered quartz is made to order. This allows you to have a wide variety of colors, patterns, and texture, making it easy to fit into any decor.

Whether you want the look of stone or a simple solid color, quartz gets made to any specifications. Plus, since it doesn’t get cut from a slab, there are no defects or imperfections to deal with.

This website can help you find the quartz countertop that would look perfect in your home.

5. It’s Versatile

Many countertop options have limitations on where you can put it due to design and their ability to withstand certain elements. Yet, quartz has the flexibility and versatility to go anywhere.

Bathrooms, fireplaces, laundry rooms, even recreational spaces are perfect areas for quartz stone. It’s durability, non-porous material, and low maintenance feature means it can stand up to whatever it faces.

Reap the Benefits of Quartz Stone in Your Home

With quartz stone countertops, you can basically set it and forget it. The benefits will give you a beautiful, low maintenance countertop that will last you for years to come.

Looking for more ways to improve your home’s look? Check out the other articles on our blog!

Do you want to add new or used furniture to your rooms to give them a sense of style? Are you having trouble determining when to shop for the best deal?

If so, then you need to consider your needs to determine the best time of the year to buy furniture. The season to shop in may depend on where you put your furniture and what you use it for.

With our knowledge of lifestyles and properties, you will be able to pick your spot for good deals on couches, desks, sofas, and patios.

Follow this guide to understand the best time of the year to buy furniture.

1. Used Furniture: Summer and Winter

When wondering what the best month to buy furniture, you may have more options for certain types. With used furniture, for example, you have several months in the summer and winter to choose from.

July and August are perfect for trips to thrift stores and yard sales for people planning to move. January and February bring you access to used furniture from people using their New Year’s resolutions to declutter and donate couches and tables that are still in good shape.

2. Custom Furniture: All Seasons

Some of you may be looking for services that can design furniture the way you want it to look. This gives you more freedom in determining the best time to buy furniture.

You won’t need to wait for stores in your area to have sales, as your furniture can have purposes that fit any time of the year. This option also gives you control over when the furniture is delivered based on the weather in your area to reduce delays and damage.

3. Office Furniture: Spring, Summer, and Fall

The answer to the question “When is the best time to buy furniture?” depends on what you plan to use it for. Those who need it for office purposes or work from home have several options.

There’s the spring, specifically tax season so that you have extra money. You can also wait until August and September to take advantage of back-to-school deals that let you buy several pieces in one shopping trip.

4. New Indoor Furniture: Winter and Summer

Those looking to replace their indoor furniture with new, cleaner options can do so in the winter and summer. Retail stores choose spring and fall to release new styles, so buying them beforehand will ensure a better deal.

Those waiting until the winter to get discounts should shop in January and February, while those choosing the summer should do so in August and September. For an extra sophisticated dining room, Kevin Sykes from ModernDigsFurniture.com recommends black matte metal table.

5. New Outdoor Furniture: Summer and Fall

Are you looking for furniture that allows you to relax in your backyard in both warm and cool weather? In this case, the best time of the year to buy furniture is either the summer or fall.

Stores will be discounting patios, tables, and other outdoor furniture in August and October to avoid storing unsold items for a year. This furniture can be used for solo relaxation and parties with friends and family in the summer and fall. 

Our Take on the Best Time of the Year to Buy Furniture

Determining the best time of the year to buy furniture depends on your needs. We recommend paying attention to deals for certain furniture so that you save on products that function like new models.

With this guide, you will get the most out of your furniture, no matter where it goes.

For more of our property expertise, check out our guides today to create a comfortable living situation.

Your family’s sofa isn’t just the centerpiece of your living room. It’s the centerpiece of your entire home.

Your couch is where you gather for Friday family movie nights. And it’s also the place where you cuddle and enjoy a Saturday night in with your significant other. So, you might as well make sure that it’s a comfortable spot.

The question is, how?

Here’s a rundown on the criteria you should consider to find the most comfortable sofa for your living space.

Let’s get started!

Looking for the Most Comfortable Sofa? Check Your Sofa’s Fit First

You may be ready to ditch that old sofa and replace it with a newer, more comfortable one.

If so, you’ll first need to find a company that will remove your old sofa for you. You can find out more about what you can expect from this type of service here.

Second, you’ll want to create a checklist to take with you as you start sofa shopping. The first item to include on this list is to check how well a sofa fits you before you purchase it.

It doesn’t make sense to buy a sofa that does not fit you or your family members well. The seats need to be comfy for everyone.

For example, perhaps you’re looking at a recliner couch. Try it out to ensure that it is comfy in all of its various positions.

Also, choose a sofa that supports your back properly. When you sit on the couch, your feet should be resting on your floor. Also, make sure that your couch will fit your whole body if you enjoy napping on it.

Feel the Sofa’s Padding

Another aspect of a sofa to look at before buying it is its padding.

Make sure that the couch’s corners and frame are padded well. You can do this by running your hands over all of the corners to see if you can feel the frame’s edges through the furniture upholstery.

If the edges are evident, this means that the upholstery might wear through quickly. As a result, you’ll find that your sofa won’t be very comfy to use long term.

Explore the Springs

Finally, look at your potential sofa’s springs. You ideally want eight-way springs that are hand-tied, as these are extremely comfy and won’t sag with time.

When you feel the sofa’s springs through its upholstery, you should notice that the springs are spaced relatively close together and are firm. This will ensure that you have the support you need when sitting on the sofa.

How We Can Help

In addition to offering tips for finding the most comfortable sofa, we provide a top-tier network of market specialists and agents for those interested in selling or buying real estate in Miami.

We stand out in the real estate industry thanks to our unparalleled negotiation capabilities combined with our trailblazing market intelligence.

Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can help buyers and sellers to achieve their unique real estate goals in the months and years ahead.

Pests are a nasty problem. Every year, people in the U.S. spend $7.47 billion dollars in pest removal and cleanup. 

When you’re shopping for a new home, the last thing you want is to buy a house with a pest infestation. Sellers won’t always be upfront about their pest control problems, so you should be aware of the signs to watch out for.

Learn about these top pest infestation signs so you won’t be blindsided by a pest problem in your new home.

Shredded Paper

As you’re doing your walkthrough, check behind appliances and in cabinets with a flashlight. These are the places that the seller may have overlooked when cleaning. 

If you see bits of shredded paper or other bits of materials, this could be a sign of rats or mice. They use these materials to build their nests.

Droppings

Yeah, it’s a little gross, but check out photos online to familiarize yourself with what the droppings of common pests look like. When you’re doing your search in those nooks and crannies, keep an eye out for those droppings as well.

Doing your research ahead of time will help you know on the spot which type of pests you might be dealing with. This is helpful if you want to question the seller about the problem. Many states require sellers to disclose problems with pests anyway, so they’ll be open to talking especially since you’ve already broached the subject.

Odd Smells

If there are enough pests present you may notice their odor. For example, the smell of mice has been likened to musty urine. Bed bugs give off a musty, sweet smell. Roaches have a strange smell that is like a cross between feces and soy sauce. 

Scurrying Sounds

Listen closely as you walk through the house, particularly in little-used areas like the attic or the spare bedroom. If you can hear scratching, squeaking, gnawing, or scurrying sounds, that’s a sure sign the home has some unwelcome residents.

It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the home outright, but you may want to request that the seller call a pest exterminator before you’ll close the deal.

Bite Marks and Holes

Rats and mice like to chew and will gnaw on everything they can find. Keep an eye out for gnaw marks on electrical wires and other materials throughout the home. 

Watch for holes in the walls and floors as well. These can be indications of pest infestations like carpenter ants or termites.

Should You Buy a Home with a Pest Infestation?

Is buying a home with a pest infestation completely out of the question? Not necessarily. But you do need to know what you’re dealing with.

The law requires that sellers disclose pest problems when selling their home. However, that doesn’t always mean that they will or there may be a problem that they’re not yet aware of. But if you know what to watch for, you’ll know if there’s a problem before you buy.

Looking for more great house-shopping tips? Be sure to check out more articles on our blog!

Moving is no picnic. In fact, they say if you truly want to test your friendship with someone, ask them to help you move. 

However, as much of a chore as it is, it doesn’t have to be completely miserable. With the right moving tips, your experience can be streamlined and pain-free (assuming you lift with your legs and not your back).

Keep reading for our top 10 essential moving tips.

Moving Tips to Streamline Your Move

Planning for your move ahead of time will prevent a lot of headaches. The last thing you want is to be scrambling last-minute. Here’s how to prepare for your move.

1. Start Collecting Boxes Early

You need to start collecting boxes months in advance to your move, if possible. You can get them from retail stores, moving companies or from friends and family. If you end up with extra, donate or recycle them.

2. Declutter

Next, one of the most helpful moving tips is learning what you can leave behind. Start decluttering your home–it will make the move much, much easier. You can start selling your stuff online, donating it, or trashing useless junk.

3. Pack Keepsakes and Other Non-Essentials in Advance

Once you’ve separated what you want to keep and what you want to let go of, start packing all of your non-essentials. These include keepsakes, decor, unused furniture, etc. 

This will give you a leg up and help you stay organized.

4. Decide if You Want to Hire Movers 

Next, you can decide if you want to hire movers or do all the work yourself. Depending on your situation, schedule, and physical ability, you may be better off to hire movers. Do what’s right for you.

5. Use the Right Moving Materials

One of the best moving tips is learning to use the right moving materials. This includes everything from packing materials to casters and trollies. These essentials can streamline the entire process.

6. Stay Organized

Next, it’s important to avoid letting things get chaotic while moving. Staying organized is the best way to speed things along and prevent losing or damaging your possessions.

7. Cancel Your Services

You also need to remember to notify all of the current services of your moving date. This means canceling your utilities, internet, phone lines, etc. You definitely don’t want to be paying to heat and cool a house you don’t live in anymore.

8. Take Care of Your Mail

Another vital moving tip is notifying the post office of your move, giving them a forwarding address. This is temporary, however, and you must permanently change your address to the people and/or companies who send you mail.

9. Pack an Overnight Bag

An often over-looked moving tip is packing an overnight bag with personal essentials. This includes a change of clothes, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, and other personal products.

10. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Finally, perhaps the most important moving tip is learning how to go with the flow. Things rarely work out perfectly, you can’t sweat the small stuff. Learn how to adapt and overcome inconveniences, delays, etc.

Start Now

Of all the moving tips, one thing we highly recommend is starting as soon as possible. The earlier you get a headstart on this process, the smoother it will go.

Good luck, and remember to check out the rest of the articles for other important news and advice.