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61 S. Main St., Oneonta, NY 607-353-7433 M-F 8-6 • Sat. 9-5 carpetsplusoneonta.com
Carpets • Vinyl • Tiles • Remnants • Services • Hardwood What’s the biggest threat to your home’s value? Page 6
Electronic locks for a safer home Page 12 VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 10 | OCTOBER 2018
How to brighten up your basement Page 14
Real Estate UPSTATE
& HOME SERVICES
A Publication of The Daily Star
102 Chestnut Street Oneonta, NY 13820 607-432-1000 www.thedailystar.com PUBLISHER Fred Scheller fscheller@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7214
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Valerie Secor vsecor@thedailystar.com (607) 441-7235
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tracy Bender
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Five common problems found by home inspectors.. ..................... 3
Electronic locks for a safer home....................................... 12
Carbon monoxide remediation........................................... 5
Choose the electric heater that’s right for you. . ........................ 13
What’s the biggest threat to your home’s value?......................... 6
How to brighten up your basement.. .................................... 14
Bathtub materials at a glance............................................ 7
Expand your living space into the garage............................... 15
Should I landscape my yard before putting my house on the market?. . . 8
How to deal with a bedbug infestation.................................. 16
Four things to consider when choosing your range hood............... 10
Have a healthier home with an air exchanger........................... 17
| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
October 2018
FIVE COMMON
problems FOUND BY home inspectors A t some point in the process of selling your home, the property itself will have to be inspected by a professional. This will not only let interested buyers know what they’re getting, but it will also let you know in advance what repairs you should make to increase the resale value of your property. Here are five of the most common problems home inspectors find.
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October 2018 | 3
n ommo sy c t s o the m can be ea ne of O t . ring g n iri lty wi t of it is ou w u a y f t , l s s u e o a r F fi m • se as of hou o miss ged causes meowner t s, clog ar r o e t h t a u ne for ed g water . Block of view drainage. res that trap drainage. r y • Poo d yard featu ute to poor y path awa s b n i a a r e t drains me all con a clear and o tion your h hould have ounda e. f s r r u . e t e o a m m .Y W our ho tire ho s blems from y dation pro rts your en very seriou o n e • Fou what supp ndation ar y u l . o l y f l a e r e t ly to is lite s with th media m i nd on m d e o e l c x b e fi o S r e . P ost im ould b repair and sh in need of roof is the mse it’s out of f • Roo ation, your ome. Becau ticed over no rh und the fo part of you develop un t n sell portan roblems ca ant to gs w p u , o t sigh hen y tle din ge. W all of the lit g to a m a time. eanin rior d to fix • Exte e, it’s best u’ve been m ll greatly yo om wi your h ipped paint s. Doing so al. r e our and ch ver the yea ’s curb app r for y ou e o e y u o m t b o y get your h en’t found a ctor to tell e s a e r e inc hav nsp you get a ome i if you Even , hiring a h e will help on yet home eeds to be d ou sell. y n what rice when p better
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| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
October 2018
Even if you haven’t found a buyer for your home yet, hiring a home inspector to tell you what needs to be done will help you get a better price when you sell.
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Carbon monoxide remediation
arbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Because carbon monoxide is found in the fumes produced when fuel is burned, it is present in and around homes. As a result, homeowners should be aware of carbon monoxide and make every effort to detect its presence. CO forms most readily when there is insufficient oxygen to complete combustion and produce carbon dioxide. Hot water closets, furnaces in crawlspaces, heating appliances in attics, and other contained areas are common areas where CO can form. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that thousands of people visit emergency rooms and are hospitalized because of CO poisoning every year. While CO is a risk for just about anyone, infants, the elderly, those with breathing problems or chronic heart disease, and people with anemia are most likely to get sick from CO. CO has earned the moniker “the silent killer” because it cannot be identified without the presence of a carbon monoxide detector. If a person believes he or she is smelling carbon monoxide, that person is probably mistaking the odor for other combustion byproducts that the human nose can sense.
CO is a byproduct of vehicle exhaust, boat engines, stoves, lanterns, grills, furnaces, and fireplaces. CO is produced anytime something is burning. That is why it is essential that products designed to be used outdoors are used exclusively outside, and that indoor appliances are properly vented to the outdoors. CO can build up indoors and poison people and pets who breathe it in. Some people may not recognize that CO is problematic in a home until multiple residents start complaining of similar symptoms. Common CO poisoning symptoms include
nausea and vomiting, dizziness, chest pain, confusion, headache, and other flu-like symptoms, advises the consumer advocacy group Carbon Monoxide Kills. Those with repeated exposure to high levels of CO may eventually develop cerebral edema, which is a swelling of the brain. CO can compress brain cells and destroy them, leading to neurological issues and death. CO poisoning is actually the result of the head and heart not receiving sufficient oxygen. CO detectors can save lives and should be installed in all homes and apartments. The National Fire Protection Association says CO detectors “shall be centrally located outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.” Individuals should follow the manufacturer instructions regarding where on the wall or ceiling the CO detectors should be mounted. As an added safety precaution, CO detectors should be placed on every floor of the home. Gas sensors in CO alarms have limited life spans, so they should be replaced generally every five to six years, because calibrating and testing for CO is more difficult than simply replacing the alarms. Installing or replacing carbon monoxide detectors is an easy improvement that can help save lives.
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What’s the biggest threat to your home’s value? PLUMBING
Water infiltration is perhaps the biggest problem a homeowner can face. Think of all the problems it can cause. Water corrodes unprotected metals and creates an environment that breeds mold and rot. If your home floods, as more and more North American homes have in recent years, the floodwater can cause extensive damage to your belongings. Here are three potential problem areas that you should make watertight if you want to increase the resale value of your home.
This is probably the most important part of protecting your home from unnecessary moisture. Make sure that all your plumbing is up to date before putting your home on the market. Installing flood prevention equipment such as sump pumps will only add to your home’s value.
LEAKY ROOF Your roof is not only meant to protect you and your loved ones from the elements; it also serves to channel water and ice away from the home. Even the tiniest leak in your roof can be disastrous for your home’s interior. To make money off of your home when you resell it, make sure you protect it from water damage. And always have your home thoroughly inspected by a professional to identify any problems before putting it on the market.
DRAINAGE One of the first places you should look to prevent water from entering your home is outside. Make sure that your downspouts properly direct water at least six feet away from the base of your home and that your yard slopes in such a way that it directs water away from, rather than towards, the house.
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| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
October 2018
BATHTUB MATERIALS at a glance Sinking into a tub of warm, lightly scented water is definitely one of the best ways to relax after a long day. Are you in the market for the perfect bathtub? In addition to choosing the type of tub and faucet, you’ll need to think about the material you want your bathtub to be made of. Here’s an overview of a few popular options.
Enameled steel
Acrylic
Fiberglass
Cast iron
Stone
Covered with a layer of porcelain, this material is affordable and requires very little upkeep. It’s resistant to scratching, rust and fading.
Lightweight and easy to clean, acrylic is good at maintaining an ideal water temperature. A good choice for those who love long baths!
This material is similar to acrylic in many ways but is slightly less expensive. Its thickness varies from model to model.
This high-end material that calls to mind classic clawfoot bathtubs has exceptional longevity. It retains heat well and doesn’t chip.
Stone bathtubs are built from carefully carved and polished river stones. They have low porosity, they’re easy to maintain, and each one is completely unique.
UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services
Composite materials An array of synthetic materials with many useful qualities (superior watertightness, smooth finish, vast color selection, etc.) are available for modern bathtubs. |
October 2018 | 7
Your yard is a part of your property too. Is it ready to go on the housing market?
Should I landscape my yard before putting my house on the market? 8
| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
October 2018
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ny strictly decorative changes, like adding flowers or other ornamentation, might not add much value to your home, as the new owners will likely change them. Some judicious landscaping, however, can greatly increase the value and curb appeal of your property. Correct landscaping can even help prepare a home for cold winters, positioning your house as a smart investment for prospective buyers. Landscaping issues that concretely affect property values include: • Landscape grading. Your yard is an important part of your total property. One of the easiest and best ways to add value to your land is to make sure that your yard slopes in the right direction to divert water and thawing ice away from the foundation.
• Dangerous trees or bushes. Although trees and bushes can add a lot of beauty and value to a home, they can also cause a lot of damage if they don’t grow correctly. Roots and branches can harm your home’s roof, siding or foundation if they grow too close. Trees and bushes closer than six feet to your home should be brought down or remediated. • Fixing your faucets. Even if you don’t use them that often, any plumbing for your yard should be fully operational before your home goes on the market. This includes outdoor faucets, underground pipes and any other water elements you may have. If you’re unsure if your yard is in good shape, you should consult a home inspector, real estate agent or local arborist. They can help you decide what needs to be done to make your property ready for the competitive real estate market.
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Four things to consider when choosing your range hood A range hood is vital for preserving your kitchen’s air quality and an integral part of the room’s decor. Here are a few criteria to consider when shopping for yours. 10
| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
October 2018
1. Stove placement First and foremost, choose a range hood that suits the placement of your stove. If your stove is against a wall, you can opt for a chimney hood or a conventional hood (placed under a cabinet). Is your stove part of a kitchen island? In that case, an island or downdraft hood would be more suitable.
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2. Available space
If your kitchen is cramped, choose a hood that will allow you to optimize your space. For example, a model with an integrated microwave can give you more counter space. Before buying a chimney hood, make sure you have enough storage space: you might need to remove the cabinets above your stove.
3. Ventilation Make sure your hood is adapted to your ventilation system. Conventional models, for example, are often created for systems that exhaust air to the outside. On the other hand, if you have a recirculating system, you’ll need a hood with a very good filter.
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4. Air movement
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Generally, a 600 CFM (cubic feet per minute) hood is best for home use. That being said, if you often use multiple burners simultaneously, or if you plan to install your hood more than 30 inches above your stove, you might need a more powerful appliance.
As an integral part of any kitchen’s decor, the range hood is an appliance that must be chosen with care.
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| October, 2018 | 11
Increasingly popular among safety-conscious homeowners, electronic locks guarantee superior protection for your home. Because they’re unlocked with a key card or a secret code instead of a traditional key, they’re among the most effective methods to prevent burglaries. Electronic locks are a great solution for tech fanatics and smart-home enthusiasts. In fact, certain models on the market can be controlled directly from a cellphone or tablet via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This means you can lock and unlock your doors no matter where you are. These remote management capabilities also mean you can provide temporary access to a family member, friend or cleaner, if need be. To find the best electronic lock for your home, visit a hardware store near you today.
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Electronic locks for a
| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
SAFER HOME
October 2018
Choose the electric heater that’s right for you
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here are all sorts of electric space heaters available on the market today, from radiant and convection to forced air varieties. Here are a few tips to help you choose the model that’s right for you. First of all, if you wish to heat a room over the course of several hours, choose a heater that uses natural convection. It may distribute heat more slowly than other heaters, but it allows you to maintain a stable temperature over long periods of time — as long as the room is closed in. If you want to warm yourself up quickly without increasing the temperature of the room you’re in, choose a heater that uses radiant heating. This provides an almost instant feeling of heat on your skin but doesn’t warm the air. It can be useful when working in your garage, for instance. Last but not least, to quickly warm up a small room, you can get a forced air heater or combined model (oilfilled or with panels). These provide stable, long-lasting heat.
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How to brighten up your basement Basements, by nature, tend to be dark. A window might let in a bit of natural light, but there are many other ways to make your basement brighter. Here are a few.
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| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
October 2018
Colors Light colors are your greatest allies when it comes to brightening a space. Opt for shades of white, beige or pale grey, and paint the whole room the same color (ceiling, walls, doors and frames). This will make the area look bigger, and therefore, brighter. Use pale flooring to further enhance the illusion of space.
Materials Furniture with a shiny finish, such as leather sofas or plastic chairs, reflects light and diffuses it throughout the room. Transparent materials like glass and plexiglass can have the same effect. You could also add a layer of epoxy-based varnish to your floor to make it ultra-lustrous and give your basement extra sparkle.
Accessories If you’re looking to increase your basement’s brightness, adding light sources is a surefire solution. Use multiple embedded and hanging lights to eliminate as many dark spots as possible. This will help you create a warm and inviting environment. Finally, reflective accessories (mirrors, chrome decorations, etc.) are the perfect way to complete a well-lit room.
Expand your living space into the
garage T
ransforming your garage into a workspace, a den or a recreation room will allow you to not only expand your living space, but also give you the opportunity to let your imagination run free. When it comes to converting your garage, creativity isn’t just allowed — it’s encouraged! Do you live for playoff season?
Install a home theatre system, plenty of sofas and a popcorn machine in your garage. If you have enough space, build a bar and buy mini appliances (fridge, blender, etc.). Your guests will love spending game night in the comfort of your unique space. Are your children particularly active? Transform your garage into a playroom. A magnetic dart
board, a ping-pong or foosball table, a sound system and a video game corner will keep your kids occupied for hours. There are endless uses for your new room. What will you build: a dance studio, an artist’s workshop, a reading nook, a home gym? The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
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How to deal with a
bedbug infestation U
nlike most pests, which hibernate during the winter, bedbugs are active all year long. How do you detect them, and above all, how do you get rid of them effectively?
Detecting bedbugs About the size of an apple seed, bedbugs are visible to the naked eye. They’re mostly active at night and typically avoid light. If you suspect you may have an infestation, check dark, tight spaces such as: • Behind peeling wallpaper • Decorative frames • Cracks in the walls and floors • Books
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| UPSTATE Real Estate & Home Services |
• Moldings • Window and door frames • Sheet hems • Electric outlets • Box springs and mattresses (inspect the seams) • Carpets and curtains • Headboards • Drawers • Suitcases • Clothing As well as checking for live bedbugs, you should also look for bodies, skins, eggs (whitish and the size of a pinhead, typically laid in clusters) and droppings (small black spots).
October 2018
Bedbug bites look similar to mosquito bites. They’re usually grouped on parts of the body that are exposed during sleep.
Getting rid of bedbugs In case of a bedbug infestation, call a professional exterminator who uses safe, environmentally friendly products. It’s best not to try to get rid of these pests by yourself. Apart from being bad for human and pet health, improper use of pesticides can make bedbugs resistant to them, thereby worsening the situation. A pest management company is your best ally to resolve the situation once and for all.
Have a healthier home with an
air exchanger With pet hair, glues, paints, varnishes, cleaning products and dust, the air we breathe indoors is often less pure than the air outside. So how can you improve the air quality in your home? One ideal solution would be to install an air exchanger for optimal ventilation. Several benefits With walls becoming better insulated, and doors and windows being increasingly airtight, rooms these days are practically hermetically sealed. Although this is perfect for reducing air infiltrations and leaks that lead to higher energy bills, it also means moisture, foul smells and all kinds of pollutants remain trapped indoors. That’s why having an air exchanger to periodically renew your indoor air is valuable, even essential, for modern homes.
By replacing the used air in your home with fresh, outdoor air, this compact and easy-to-maintain device can help make your living space healthier. It’s especially useful if one of your household members has asthma or allergies. Furthermore, an air exchanger makes your home more comfortable and reduces the risk of mold and condensation in your windows. Convinced? To find the air exchanger that’s right for you, ask a local specialist for advice.
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