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NOVEMBER 2021
Dan Bollman,
NEW LISTING
Associate Broker
231-629-2680
Over 30 Years Experience dan@century21whitehouse.com
www.Century21WhiteHouse.com
Thinking of selling your home or cottage? Please call me for a free market evaluation...you might be surprised at your value...in today’s high demand market!
I NEED YOUR LISTING! Please Call Me! RESIDENTIAL
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CO M M E R C I A L
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R E N TA L S
Main Canadian Lakes • Waterfront
$317,500
Lake Laura Lot Canadian Lakes
$39,950 n
VACA N T L A N D
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Waterfront Lot Main Canadian Lakes
$29,900
WAT E R F R O N T
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FA R M S
A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE PIONEER GROUP ALSO ONLINE AT HOMEFINDERGUIDE.COM
The Strength of Teamwork. 1810 State St. Big Rapids, MI
231-250-8882
Yvonne Meyer Realtor
231-468-8068
Bridget Lamoreaux Realtor
616-214-1007
231-796-4805•
Allitta Hren Realtor
231-250-8192
Jennifer Verdi-Stieg Realtor
231-287-0410
Hailey Brock Realtor
231-527-5769
www.RivertownRealEstate.org
Conveniently loCated
CountRy living
$99,900 • Reed City • #21105217 Adorable...Affordable home perfect for that first time home buyer or the empty nesters ready to downsize. One bedroom, one bath home ideally located with in walking distance to downtown Reed City. Home has been tastefully remodeled with your creativity and a little TLC this place could be called home.
2 story, quaint farm home on .85 acre with deeded access to Big Stone Lake. 4 bedroom 2 bath open dining and living room measuring 14x33’, fire place wood floors, master bedroom suite with full bath and garden tub, balcony, full basement, metal roof, antique stone ice house converted into your own special place with electricity, huge barn upper and lower- all in a small neighborhood with nice view of Big Stone Lake about 5 miles south west of Evart- nice country living.
Charming, ‘’diamond in the rough’’ home that’s full of opportunity. On the main floor, you’ll find the master bed & bath (with a gorgeous soaking tub), along with a spacious walk-in closet. The basement is unfinished, leaving tons of room for your imagination to design around the 3 bedrooms, bathroom, and large entertainment space. Motivated seller, willing to consider all offers. The seller is unable to conduct any repairs.
PRiCe ReduCed
MuSt See!
63 aCReS
$227,000 • Rodney • # 21108384
JuSt liSted
$179,900 • evart • #21108626
$249,900 • Cadillac • #21110179
$220,000 • Stanwood • #21112429
$284,900 • leRoy • #21011980
Stop the Car!! This home is a Must See!! This recently remodeled ranch style home features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, office, cozy family room with knotty pine cathedral ceilings, brick fireplace, pellet stove, full- partially finished walkout basement. Front and Back deck perfect for unwinding & relaxing. Large Country setting and did I mention the amazing man cave/garage? Attached 30x50 4 car garage with a service bay equipped with grease pit, 220 electric service, exhaust fan fully insulated and heated with tons of room for all your toys.
This could be your forever home! New flooring throughout, recently painted inside/out. There are 4 large bedrooms, with lots of closet space. Laundry located on the second floor, so no more hauling clothes up and down the stairs. The bathrooms are located on main and upper levels. Sits on an acre lot m/l near Harmony Hills. Fenced in backyard w/fire pit. Makes for nice relaxing nights and entertaining. You will be the hit of any party with your 20 x 40 in ground pool, decking and storage building for all your pool toys. A MUST SEE!!
Turn of the Century Farmhouse! Picturesque property, 4 bedrooms, original hardwood flooring, pocket doors, French doors, incredible woodwork and trim, Victorian style leaded glass windows, wrap around deck/parlor with all the charm of years gone by. Property boasts 69 acres with many outbuildings including pole barns, hip roof barns, chicken barns and beautiful rolling pastures. This could be your dream farm with a little hard work you will have a show piece property.
PRiCed ReduCed
40 aCReS
event CenteR
$599,900 • Chase • # 21023970
$899,900 • White Cloud • #2114165
$299,900 • lake City • #20045274
Hunters Custom Dream Home!! 96 Wildlife filled acres!! Once in a lifetime opportunity to own your own executive hunt camp or year round home the possibilities are endless. 3 BR 2 BA, almost new home, features a huge master bedroom suite, open concept floor plan, large kitchen with island and tons of counter space, a large mud room/main floor laundry. Expansive outdoor living space with 2 large decks-both with incredible views perfect for unwinding and or entertaining. 24x12 storage shed is perfect for all the toys and gear you will be using on your privately owned fish stocked pond.
Equestrian Living Oasis! Turn-Key 40 acre property! Upon entering the 3 BR, 2 BA home you will immediately be embraced by the coziness of this home. Huge updated kitchen, large master bedroom suite, spacious living room w/real wood fireplace to cozy up to on those winter nights, enormous walk-out deck is perfect to relax and entertain. The equestrian facility checks all the boxes including: 15 box stalls, heated BA, 120’ x 60’ dust controlled indoor riding arena, tack room, office, heated lounge, wash rack. Be amazed by the 150’x220’ dressage arena, 8 separate paddocks w/shelters, brand new 3 car 30’x56’ garage with loft and professional round pen training arena and the entire property is fenced for safety.
Very successful up and running restaurant/bar/event center. Restaurant features family friendly casual dining with 130 seats. (168 Max. Capacity). Business includes, liquor license, all furniture, kitchen equipment and a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 1985 manufactured house with a large 2 stall detached garage. Home may be used as a rental (currently rented, month to month), or for your personal use. Located on busy highway M-55, the East West corridor between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron and between Grand Rapids and the UP.Missaukee county is not zoned. This is a must see, because the possibilities are endless! Daycare, convenient store,church, use half rent the other half. Will sell without Liquor License.
endleSS oPPoRtunitieS
Be ouR oWn BoSS
inCRediBle loCation
$94,900 • Reed City• #20008548
Adorable Riverside Commercial Building for Sale, Lease or Rent. Endless opportunities with this building such as Beauty Shop, Coffee Shop, Office Space. Added convenience with studio apartment above work space & full basement for storage. The all in one building for that first start small business. Conveniently Located on the Hersey River with Rails to Trails access right out the backdoor.
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Lori Brock Broker/Owner
$299,000 • leRoy • #20048153
NOW! is the time to pursue your dream of owning a one of a kind restaurant. The establishment is custom designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped back into time. Period decor throughout creates an extraordinary experience for customers with furnishes that are of the utmost in quality. It is an incredibly beautiful eatery. The restaurant includes a large banquet room to host all varieties of events. The kitchen houses brand, new state of the art commercial stainless steel equipment. This property also includes upstairs apartments that with some finishing touches could add even more earning potential. More remodeling is being done- So much potential with this property.
$249,900 • Cadillac • #21006517
Incredible commercial location on Cadillac’s North end that has all the potential... 60x80 steel building with office area/ show room & heated work area with 2 large doors 14’x24,10’x12 with 12-18 foot ceilings, Handicap bathroom, crushed asphalt paved lot, fenced storage yard. This building is ready to be your next business location.Seller will look at all reasonable offers.
Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
Helpful Homeowner Tips HOLIDAY DECORATING There are many traditional and contemporary ways to decorate for the holidays both inside and outside the home. Christmas is arguably the most popular decorating holiday, but having decorations that are re-usable for other holidays is a great idea. CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS Consider a wide variety of lighting options such as: • Rope lights, icicle lights or net lights for bushes or trees • Try multiple function light sets that will do amazing things • Consider various sizes of bulbs from big, small, sphere, round or warm, cool or multiple colors • Pathway, spotlight or window lighting d Use LED lighting options as they are energy efficient and last for years d Find paper, bows, boxes or bags to make presents pretty d Use ceramic buildings and accessories to create a Christmas village d Small and large outdoor inflatables d Others include ornaments, wreathes, garland, tinsel, stockings, trees, tree skirts and more. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Don’t forget to plan ahead and have tools readily available when decorating plus ladders, drills, adhesive strips, tape, nails, gutter hooks and anything else you might need d Color makes a world of difference when choosing decorations for the holidays d Choose Christmas decorations that have more of a wintry feel that can be used for a longer time frame d For other holidays, consider the multi-use capabilities of decorations that can be used for birthday parties or other events View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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BUSINESS CARD & PROFESSIONALS
Directory
Dan Bollman, Associate Broker
231-629-2680
Over 30 Years Experience dan@century21whitehouse.com www.Century21WhiteHouse.com
Real Estate
1810 State St. • Big Rapids, MI Office: 231-796-4805 Broker/Owner 231-250-8882 www.rivertownrealestate.org
Lori Brock
Not advertising in the HOME FINDER GUIDE?
Find it in the Home Finder at www.homefinderguide.com
I would be happy to help
Contact Ken Kasprzak Today! 8520 100th Ave. , Canadian Lakes, MI 49346
231.972.8300
ken.kasprzak@pioneergroup.com
231-592-8368
...Get featured today!
www.canadianlakeshomes.com
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Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1948
MICHAEL
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We have REC Gas & K-1 Kerosene -- Pick Up or Delivery 24 Hour EmErgEncy SErvicE AvAilAblE! 18655 Northland Dr., Old U.S. 131, Big Rapids
231-796-8681
www.michaeloilandpropane.com Online Payment Options Available!
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View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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Helpful Homeowner Tips MANAGING WINTER DAMAGE The winter season brings plenty of joy and beauty, but it can also wreak havoc on your outdoor plants and landscaping. Some of this damage is unavoidable, depending on where you live, the snow, wind and frigid temperatures are bound to affect your plants. However, there are some tips and trick to help your plants avoid the hazards of winter. BRANCHES BREAKING OR BENDING After a heavy snowfall, you may notice branches falling off your trees or bending under the weight of the snow. If the snow is fluffy and easy to move, you may carefully brush the snow off the bending branches with a broom or other tool. Do not attempt to brush the weight off branches from an ice storm to avoide further damage. Try to avoid blowing or shoveling snow onto landscaping plants LEAF SCORCH Applying de-icing salt is an effective way to protect walkways and roads. But, be careful not to expose plants to salt as this will turn needles brown or damage the edges of leaves. Plants with salt damage should be watered thoroughly in spring. SUNSCALD Most common among young trees with thin bark is sunscald, the result of unseasonably warm winter temps followed by a return to freezing temps. As trees are dormant during the cold winter weather, a brief warm spell essentially causes them to wake up, causing their bark to rapidly expand and contract. Wrapping vulnerable trees with reflective white tree guards or burlap can help. WINTER BURN Hazardous winter weather conditions can cause evergreen trees to have brown patches of needles, the result of winter burn. Usually warm fall temperatures, drastic temperature drops and an inadequate root system can all contribute to winter burn. If the entire tree turns brown, the tree is not likely to recover, but pruning the affected areas in spring may help spring new buds and branches. FROST HEAVE Typically as a result of late planting, repeated freezing and thawing temperatures may potentially damage or even kill some plants. To prevent frost heave, apply mulch to recently-planted perennial plants to prepare for a hard frost. Additionally, it’s best to avoid planting perennials after September as planting will not give the plants enough time to develop a strong root system before temperatures dip below freezing. 6
Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
Helpful Homeowner Tips GALLERY WALL Simple ways to change the look and feel of any room. A personalized gallery can change the vibe of an entire room and also reflect your style, passions and inspirations. It’s a great way to showcase the things you love in life including family, friends, pets and places. How you decorate a wall can create a feeling of warmth and style for your home. SUPPLIES It’s easy to get started with a few simple supplies such as picture frames, painter’s tape, nail hanging kits, hammer, level and tape measure about all you need. CHOOSE A THEME The first step is determining what inspires you. Is it artwork or photos, or both? What are your color options or do you prefer black-and-white, or maybe a mix of both. Matching frames or a mix? There really isn’t a wrong answer as gallery walls are not permanent and can be easily replaced if you get tired of it. MOCK UP A WALL LAYOUT You can literally drive yourself crazy trying to create the perfect wall. Remember if you smile when you see it, go with it. Cut out shapes, lay them on the floor, arrange them with painter’s tape, re-arrange so you can see it in various layouts, etc. Be careful not to overdo it but remember you can always add or subtract to the wall as your mood changes once it’s installed. INSTALLATION Determining where the nails should go for each frame can be tricky. You don’t want to pound nail holes all over the wall, but keep in mind that repairing old nail holes with spackling and paint is fairly easy. So, follow your plan and adjust slightly when necessary. Use patience and try to put the nails in spots that can be interchangeable with various frames. Now that you’ve created your first gallery wall, you will realize that you can repeat as often as you like. Depending on your energy level and mood, you can change your wall every year or with each changing season. You can experience with painting the wall to match or contrast with frames or artwork. View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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Helpful Homeowner Tips ENERGY EFFICIENCY There are many ways to reduce a household’s energy use from simple adjustments in behavior to comprehensive home improvements. The main reasons to conserve energy are to save on utility bills and protect the environment. Some of the more common ways to conserve energy are: Replace your light bulbs • Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume an excessive amount of electricity and need replacing more often than energy efficient bulbs. • Halogen incandescent bulbs, CFLs and LEDs use 25-80% less electricity and last 3-25 times longer than traditional bulbs. Install a programmable or smart thermostat • Automatically turn off or reduce heating and cooling during times when you’re away or sleeping. • Depending on the model, programmable thermostats can save you $180 per year. Install energy efficient windows • To prevent heat loss through your windows, replace single-pane windows with double-pane ones. • In warmer climates, heat gain through your windows may be a problem. • Window shades, shutters, screens and awnings can also provide an extra layer of insulation between your home and external temperatures. Weatherize your home • Sealing air leaks around your home is a great way to reduce your heating and cooling expenses. • Apply caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks or cracks Purchase energy efficient appliances • On average, appliances are take up about 13% of your total household energy use. • Energy efficient appliances may have higher purchase prices but cost less to operate Consider a new water heater • Purchasing an energy efficient water heater will reduce your water heating expenses. Use smart power strips • Advanced power strips can shut off the power to electronics when not in use. • Can be turned off at an assigned time, during inactivity or through remote switches. Adjust your day-to-day behavior • Energy conservation is as simple as turning off lights or appliances when not in use. • On occasion, to save energy hang dry clothes, wash dishes by hand, turn down the heat and use your air conditioner less in the summer as heating and cooling expenses constitute nearly have of an average home’s utility bill. 8
Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
Come visit us!
Over 55,000 square feet of showrooms specializing in New and Used Furniture, Bedding, Estate Jewelry and Collectibles.
Due to supply chain interruptions, new furniture is taking longer to get to your home. If you don’t want to wait, shop our 3 showrooms to get quality used furniture NOW at a fraction of the cost. Our inventory changes daily!
119 S. Main St., Scottville, MI | 231-757-8733 Tues-Fri 9am-5:30pm • Sat 9am-4:30pm *For your safety, masks are worn if requested. Sanitizer station provided.
www.holdenshomeemporium.com
View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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Helpful Homeowner Tips UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN Adding value to your home doesn’t mean you have to put a lot of money into it. Doing some little things such as updating a faucet or cabinet hardware can make a large impact, especially when you’re indoors more during the winter months. NEW CABINET HARDWARE: It’s faster than cabinet re-facing and can drastically change the look of your cabinets without spending a large amount of money. There are many different options available to find the right look for your kitchen. INSTALL A NEW BACKSPLASH: Most kitchens require only a few boxes of tile to create a backsplash and give the room a new, more dramatic look. A tile backsplash doesn’t require taking down cabinets or redoing countertops which makes it an easy and inexpensive kitchen update. ADD A COAT OF PAINT: Painting walls will give you a great do-it-yourself project and add to your home’s appeal. Color options create an instantaneous new look for any room in your house. UPDATE YOUR LIGHTING: Distinctive lighting fixtures are an easy and fun way to put a little accent in your kitchen. Under cabinet lighting, track light systems and pendant lights are a great way to add personality to your kitchen, pleasant accent light, illuminate task areas, spotlight an island or special cabinet. UPDATE YOUR FAUCET: This is one of the easiest ways to update your kitchen without spending a lot of time or money. There are several styles and finishes to choose from that range in price to fit anyone’s budget. NEW APPLIANCES: Though a more expensive update, consider an investment in new appliances that will provide great benefit in the long run. The kitchen’s primary function is for preparing and cooking meals, so the room is only as good as its appliances. A variety of styles and models will not only help fulfill your basic needs, but also provide a look and feel to make your kitchen look impressive. These are just a few examples of small things you can do to enhance the look of your home whether you plan to put it on the market or not. 10
Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
Bryson & sons
Home Improvement • Additions Insurance Repair (Fire • Wind • Water)
Ice Back-Ups
• Kitchens • Baths
Licensed & Insured • 40 Years
231-796-8283 License #59-12
SEPTIC TANK CLEANING LLC
“FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1979”
LICENSED & INSURED
Home Septic Inspections • Competitive Rates Commercial-Residential • Septic Tanks Vacuum Cleaned Portable Toilet Rentals For Any Occasion
Serving Kent, Montcalm, Newaygo and Surrounding Areas
616-951-7171
View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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231-972-8300
Kathleen Adams 231-250-3197
Sue Kempton 231-638-3498
Kolina Mako 989-423-0452
Jim Bradley 231-598-4640
Joe Mako Rockie Peacock Peter Taylor Marshall Henry 989-303-8544 231-349-5533 989-857-9017 231-598-0838
Todd Lincoln Michael Roberts Bob Manzagol 989-560-4884 989-506-4275 231-349-8096
Rich Marino 586-630-8773
Becky Young 517-899-7698
Rick Kempton 231-349-8300
School section lake island
This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to own your own private island. Not just any island but a 12+/- Acre Island, plus two shore side lots for access and utility lines. This private paradise sits in the center of pristine School Section Lake. The island has over 2,200 feet of beautiful, firm, sandy shorelines, two cottages, docks and a boathouse. The west shore side lot has a second boathouse and dock for easy access to the island. The cottages offer two bedrooms and one bathroom each and both share dramatic, panoramic views of the water. A very unique and spectacular opportunity for the right buyer... schedule your boat tour and showing today!
MLS #21097116
2+ acres
Move in ready
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$1,460,000
72 ACRES
Bear lake waterfront
33 acres-Chippewa river Proposed construction
Mecosta, MI
8 acres-school sec lk
New construction
Quiet country living 3.5acres-Chippewa river
Canadian lakes access
2.5 acres
Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
have you found that a good used home in the right location and having the highest bid has become as hard as picking a winning lottery ticket?
And that the cost of building new would take that winning ticket to be able to afford to build it? SIDING ROOFING
WINDOWS
TRIM
Let Us Help
yo u t u r n yo u r o l d h o u s e i n to a n e w o n e !
FLOORING KITCHENS DOORS
COMPOSITE DECKING 2323 West US Hwy-10 Ludington, MI 49431
231.757.9000 carterlumber.com
STORE HOURS: M-F 7a - 5p, Sat. 7a - 12p, Sun. Closed View it online at www.homefinderguide.com
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MOVING CHECK-LIST
Simple ideas to keep yourself organized and stay on task.
TWO MONTHS BEFORE MOVING r Sort through your belongings to reduce the number of things you move. r Have a garage sale or donate items you no longer need to charity. r Decide whether to move yourself or hire professionals. Make reservations with a moving company or truck rental company. Tip: Call three companies for estimates to compare.
r Gather packing supplies: boxes, packing material, tape, felt markers, and scissors. r If you’re moving a long distance, make travel arrangements with the airline, hotel, and rental car agency. If you’re driving to your new home, get maps and plan your travel route. r Save all moving receipts, because some moving expenses may be tax deductible. Check the current tax code for requirements. r Place your legal, medical, financial, and insurance records in a safe and a accessible place. r Purchase insurance coverage for valuables to be moved. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
ONE MONTH BEFORE MOVING
r Start packing items that aren’t regularly used such as off-season clothes and decorations and items in storage areas (garage, attic, and closets). r Make travel arrangements for your pets. r If you’re driving, get your car tuned up. r Get medical records from your doctors, dentist, optometrist, and veterinarian. r Send items (rugs, drapes, clothing, quilts, bedding) to the cleaners. r Back up important computer files to floppy disk. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
TWO WEEKS BEFORE MOVING
r Contact your utility companies (gas, electric, water, cable, trash collector, and local phone service providers) and notify them of your move. r Sign up for services at your new address. r Contact your long distance phone company and notify them of your move. r Call friends and family and recruit help for the moving day if necessary. r Confirm your travel reservations. r Arrange to close or transfer your bank account, if appropriate. Pick up items from safety deposit box. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
ONE WEEK BEFORE MOVING
r Pick up items from the cleaners, repair shops, or friends. r Pack a survival kit of clothes, medicines, special foods, and so on to carry you through the day after arrival in your new home. r Finish packing all boxes minus what you will need in the final week. r Inform the post office of your upcoming move. Send change-of-address cards with your new address and phone number to: r Friends and family r Banks, insurance companies, credit card companies, and other financial institutions r Magazines and newspapers r Doctors, lawyer, accountant, Realtor, and other service providers
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r State and federal tax authorities and any other government agencies as needed r Workplace, schools, and alma maters r Voter registration office and motor vehicle bureau r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
THE DAY BEFORE
r Set aside moving materials, such as tape measure, pocket knife, and rope. r Pad corners and stairways of house. r Lay down old sheets in the entry and hallways to protect floor coverings. r Remove hanging fixtures. r If moving yourself, pick up the rental truck and a hand truck or dolly to move heavy boxes. r If you’re driving, check oil and gas in your car. r If you’re traveling, make sure you have tickets, charge cards, and other essentials. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
MOVING DAY
Carry with you: r The keys to your new home. r Map of new town and directions to your house. r The telephone number of the moving company. r Cash or traveler’s checks. r Documentation related to the sale of your home. r Your insurance policies and agent’s phone number. r Your current address book or personal planner. r Prescription and non-prescription medicines. r Enough clothing to get by if the movers are late. r Any important personal records and documents. r Any items of great personal value to you that are virtually irreplaceable (for example, a photo album). r Back-up copies of important computer files. r Sheets and towels for the first night in your new home. r Personal hygiene items (for example, toothpaste, soap, razor) r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
ARRIVAL DAY
r Show movers where to place furniture and boxes. r Check inventory to ensure that everything was delivered before signing delivery papers. Note any damages on the inventory sheet. Tip: It’s helpful to have the movers read off the inventory numbers on boxes and furniture while you check the inventory list.
r Unpack any valuable items, such as silver, art, and jewelry, upon arrival. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________
AFTER THE MOVE
r Walk and drive around your neighborhood and community to orient yourself and your family. r Get new drivers licenses, library cards, voter registration cards, and bus passes. r Enroll children in school. r __________________________________________________ r __________________________________________________ Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021
HOME MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE - CHECKLIST & TIPS:
QUARTERLY
PLUMBING Faucets & shower heads Drains Pipes Kitchen & bathroom cabinets Toilets Water heater INTERIOR Wood cabinets and trim Interior doors Garage door Window and door tracks Basement or crawl space Ceramic tile ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES Heating and cooling systems Kitchen exhaust fan Refrigerator Dishwasher Wiring, electrical cords, & plugs Smoke detector GFI outlets EXTERIOR Foundation Landscaping Concrete and asphalt FALL PLUMBING Plumbing shut-off valves Outside faucets Water heater Faucet aerators
INTERIOR Attic
Countertops Tiled areas Shower doors/tub enclosures Weather stripping Sectional garage doors Fireplace ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES Heating system Cooling system
DATE LAST COMPLETED Check interior and exterior faucets for leaks Clean aerators - Replace washers if necessary Clean with baking soda Pour water down unused drains Inspect visible pipes for leaks Check under and around for leaks Check for stability and leaks Check area around water heater for leaks If you have hard water drain 1-2 gallons water
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________
Apply a wood protection Lubricate hinges Lubricate hardware - Inspect mechanism for free travel Check to see if weep holes are open Clean out dirt and dust Lubricate rollers and latches Check for cracks or any sign of dampness or leaks - Check for any evidence of termites or wood-eating insects Check and clean grout
_____________ _____________
Clean and replace filters if necessary Remove and clean the filter Clean accumulated grease deposits from the fan housing Clean dust from top - Clean refrigerator drain pan - Clean and defrost freezer if necessary Check for leaks Check for wear or damage - Replace if necessary Test for proper operation and replace batteries if necessary Test for proper operation
_____________
Inspect visible areas, vents, and ducts for cracks, leaks, or blockages Check for proper drainage Clean oil and grease
Inspect for proper operation Drain Flush out hot water to remove accumulated sediment Check for proper flow of water - If the flow is reduced, clean the aerator screens - During the first two months, the faucet aerators could require more frequent cleaning Examine for evidence of any leaks - Check insulation and remove or add if necessary Check for evidence of birds, squirrels, raccoons, etc - Check for proper ventilation Inspect for separations at sinks and backsplash - Re-caulk where required Inspect for loose or missing grout or caulking -Regrout or recaulk if necessary Inspect for proper fit - Adjust if necessary Inspect caulking and recaulk if necessary Check caulking around windows and doors Check window and door screens Adjust or replace if necessary Adjust the travel and tension Inspect flues - Clean if necessary - Inspect fireplace brick and mortar for cracks or damage Service heating system and heat pump Remove debris from around units and clean with garden hose - Remove window air conditioner or protect with weatherproof cover Clean and replace filters if necessary
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FALL - ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES
Refrigerator coils Combustible appliances EXTERIOR Roof
Chimney Gutters and downspouts Exterior walls Landscaping
_____________ _____________ _____________
_____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ _____________ DATE LAST COMPLETED _____________ _____________ _____________
_____________
_____________
Concrete and asphalt Septic system Lawn and patio furniture SPRING PLUMBING Water heater INTERIOR Attic
Countertops Tiled areas Shower doors/tub enclosures Weather stripping ELECTRICAL AND APPLIANCES Heating and cooling system
Circuit breakers Refrigerator EXTERIOR Decks Roof
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Chimney
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Gutters and downspouts Windows Exterior walls Landscaping
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Clean Inspect and service if necessary Check for leaks - Check for damaged, loose, or missing shingles - Check vents and louvers for birds, nests, squirrels, and insects - Check flashing around roof stacks, vents, and skylights for leaks Clean and check for deteriorating bricks and mortar - Check for leaks - Check for birds, nests, squirrels, and insects Clean and check for leaks, misalignment, or damage Check for deteriorating bricks and mortar Check siding for damage or rot Check painted surfaces for flaking Trim shrubbery around walls - Remove tree limbs, branches, or debris that can attract insects (no wood or shrubbery should be closer than 3 inches to your house) Maintain grading Check for cracks or deterioration Reseal or repair if necessary Examine septic system drain field for flooding and odor - Have tank pumped yearly Clean and store or cover with weatherproof material
Flush out hot water to remove accumulated sediment Examine for evidence of any leaks - Check insulation and remove or add if necessary Check for evidence of birds, squirrels, raccoons, etc. - Check for proper ventilation Inspect for separations at sinks and backsplash - Recaulk where required Inspect for loose or missing grout or caulking - Regrout or recaulk if necessary Inspect for proper fit - Adjust if necessary Inspect caulking and recaulk if necessary Check caulking around windows and doors Check window and door screens Adjust or replace if necessary
DATE LAST COMPLETED _____________ _____________
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General furnace inspection: Look for rust, scaling on heat exchanger, and proper flame color; note odd sounds or smells; and check condition of venting. Remove debris around units _____________ Exercise _____________ Clean coils _____________ Scrub mildewed areas and treat for water stains, mildew, and fungus Clean - Check for leaks - Check for damaged, loose or missing shingles. Check vents and louvers for birdsnests, squirrels, and insects Check flashing around roof stacks, vents, and skylights for leaks Clean and check for deteriorating bricks and mortar - Check for leaks - Check for birds, nests, squirrels, and insects Clean and check for leaks, misalignment, damage Clean Check for deteriorating bricks and mortar Check siding for damage or rot Check painted surfaces for flaking Trim shrubbery around walls - Remove tree limbs, branches, or debris that can attract insects (no wood or shrubbery should be closer than 3 inches to your house) - Maintain grading Check for cracks or deterioration Reseal or repair if necessary
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Helpful Homeowner Tips CHOOSING FIREPLACES There are many options for you to choose from, but the right options can often depend where you want to put your fireplace. Creating a plan and researching your options is the smart way to start. ELECTRIC FIREPLACES • Do not require venting as there is no source of combustion and no heat loss through a chimney. • Many decorative styles to fit your needs and room. • Great for supplemental heat. LP & NATURAL GAS • Great source of supplemental heat. • Provide the look of a wood burning fireplace or wood stove without the mess or work. • Can be either vented or vent free. WOOD FIREPLACES • Helps to lower your heating bills. • The ambiance, romance and scent of a wood fire are other great reasons to install on in your home. VENT FREE FIREPLACES • Typically cost less than vented fireplaces to operate and install. Have a 99.7% efficiency rating, and utilize the air already in the home. The burner in the gas heater is designed to burn and produce virtually no carbon monoxide or other hazardous fumes that need to be vented outside the home. • Vent free products are not recommended for use in elevations over 5,000 feet. • There are more limitations on Vent Free fireplaces due to local codes. DIRECT VENT FIREPLACES • Direct vent fireplaces are gas operated and heat rated. • Vented needs a specific vent system to bring in and introduce fresh outside air and vent the exhaust from the unit outside the home. • High efficiency and convenient installation are two of its features. • Always check with the local code authority to get a list of acceptable types of units that may be installed in your homes or garages OUTDOOR FIREPLACES - There are many varieties to choose from including: No cut block projects Portable fireplaces Fire rings 16
Find it in the Home Finder n NOVEMBER 2021