• Streamline Home Inspections: HOMECHECK™ REPORTS! 
  HOMECHECK™ Reports offers Home Inspectors a way to expedite their reports so clients may be emailed results within minutes after an inspection. HOMECHECK™ Reports was created so Home Inspectors can offer accurate and detailed inspection reports quickly in a competitive field. This new program now offered by HOMECHECK.com is convenient, easy to use and offers detailed, in-depth reports for clients. We know Home Inspectors need a mobile office at an affordable rate.  This month, we want to take a moment to introduce this great new program!

• SUMMER SAFETY TIPS!
  The summer has a pull for us, no matter our age. It is a time to take a few days off work, barbeque in the backyard, go for a picnic, a hike, a swim, a bike ride or go out on the water on our boat. It is also a time to mow and weed the lawn, plant flowers and finish countless chores around the home that have been put off until the weather "cooperated." Needless to say, summer is a busy time when we do more activities and chores and can very easily overexert ourselves. That is why this month we are focusing on some tips that can help you have a fun and safe summer. Part of having fun is being aware of what precautions you should take and how you should plan ahead for whatever you choose to do. But we know you are busy, so here is the quick list for a safe summer!  

• Understanding HOMEOWNERS' INSURANCE!
  Many of us obtain our homeowners insurance when we purchase our home.  After this initial purchase, we do not give this insurance another thought.  It is not until the roof is damaged during a violent thunderstorm, a major appliance fails and floods our basement, or the neighbor's kid slips and fractures their wrist in our living room that we dust off the policy and ask ourselves, "Am I covered for this?"  Don't wait until damage or an accident happens to discover what your insurance policy covers.  Instead, you should have a good idea of what you are covered for and what is not included.  Every year you should assess if your coverage should increase or if there is any optional coverage you may want to add.  The purpose of this article is to point out some general characteristics of homeowners insurance and help in determining if you have the right coverage.  Obviously this cannot substitute for a consultation with your insurance provider, but it will give you a better idea of what questions to ask.

• Some Myths and Realities about Real Estate Appraisals and Appraisers! 
  Discover the truth behind the myth as you gain a better understanding of appraisers and real estate appraisals. 

• KITCHEN REMODEL - Hints and Tips!
  Remodeling your kitchen is a major event. You may be without the room entirely for most of the remodel process. There will be many different contractors and specialists coming in and out of your home.  And changes in timelines may happen due to product availability or other unforeseen circumstances.  All said, it is a major project that takes careful planning and attention to detail for a satisfactory outcome. In this article, we have given you the short list of some things you will need to consider before and during a kitchen remodel. 
• Some Myths and Realities about Real Estate Appraisals and Appraisers! 
  Discover the truth behind the myth as you gain a better understanding of appraisers and real estate appraisals. 

• BATHROOM REMODEL - Hints and Tips!
  Your bathroom is where you prep to start your day and where you wind down at the end of the day. From a nice hot shower to an at home spa, the bathroom is an important room in every home and to our daily lives. However, it can be the room most overlooked when it comes to decoration and/or remodeling. It shouldn't be. According to Contractors.com, remodeling your bathroom can give you an 80-90% return on the value of your home. Adding a new bathroom can also easily add a 90% return on the value of your home. Improving this room can, therefore, be a savvy investment in your property. But it can be more than just a wise investment. In this article we provide some hints and tips for your bathroom makeover. Whether just changing a few decorations or completing a major remodel, we hope you will find something beneficial for your remodeling project.
• SELLING YOUR HOME? USE THESE TIPS!
  Review this checklist of important items to consider and projects to undertake before you sell your home to make sure you get the most for your home!

• PET FRIENDLY!  Making your Home and Yard Perfect for your Pet!
  For many, bringing home a pet is the same as bringing home a new addition to the family. Pets easily find their way into our hearts with their playful antics and friendly companionship. When you decide to add an animal companion to your family, it is imperative that you are willing to make some adjustments to your living space. This article is aimed at giving hints for all who have pets or will have pets in their home.
• IMPORTANT HOME INSPECTION TIPS!
  In general, homeowners should order a home inspection soon after the purchase offer has been accepted. Real estate contracts typically allow a limited number of days to complete a home inspection and to request repairs, if applicable. Discover more tips in this months' article. 

• DECORATING ON A BUDGET: A Few Ideas For Decorating Without A Lot Of Money!
  For some of us there comes a point in our lives when we look around our dwelling and realize the college student look has to go.  Others of us look around and see an eclectic mix of sad and worn hand-me-down furniture.  And a few of us are just, well, bored with the décor we have had for the last five years.  To redecorate your home you don't need to spend a whole lot of cash.  Granted, a major remodel (such as a kitchen or bathroom) will be a whole different story (and an article to come later this year).  However, any space in your home can be given a fresh look with easy do-it-yourself projects at minimal cost.
• ONIONS - PEELING BACK THE LAYERS OF DECEPTIVE TERMITE INSPECTIONS.
  Some states allow Home Inspectors to identify and report on wood destroying organisms if the inspector is properly certified/licensed. Other states, such as California, do not allow Home Inspectors to do so unless that inspector is also licensed as a Structural Pest Inspector, of which there are very few. But, if the inspector is properly licensed, then the reporting will be done on a report form mandated by the Structural Pest Control Board located in Sacramento, and the reporting process falls under a whole slew of regulations administered by the Structural Pest Control Board. This practice is unfortunate as that process breeds, in California anyway, a huge conflict of interest situation that revolves around the home sale/purchase activity. Now you're ready to peel off the first layer of the onion. 
• IMPORTANT HOME INSPECTION TIPS!
  In general, homeowners should order a home inspection soon after the purchase offer has been accepted. Real estate contracts typically allow a limited number of days to complete a home inspection and to request repairs, if applicable. Discover more tips in this months' article. 

• ONIONS - PEELING BACK THE LAYERS OF DECEPTIVE TERMITE INSPECTIONS.
  Some states allow Home Inspectors to identify and report on wood destroying organisms if the inspector is properly certified/licensed. Other states, such as California, do not allow Home Inspectors to do so unless that inspector is also licensed as a Structural Pest Inspector, of which there are very few. But, if the inspector is properly licensed, then the reporting will be done on a report form mandated by the Structural Pest Control Board located in Sacramento, and the reporting process falls under a whole slew of regulations administered by the Structural Pest Control Board. This practice is unfortunate as that process breeds, in California anyway, a huge conflict of interest situation that revolves around the home sale/purchase activity. Now you're ready to peel off the first layer of the onion. 
• IMPORTANT HOME INSPECTION TIPS!
  In general, homeowners should order a home inspection soon after the purchase offer has been accepted. Real estate contracts typically allow a limited number of days to complete a home inspection and to request repairs, if applicable. Discover more tips in this months' article. 
• CUSTOMER DEPOSITS - ILLEGITIMATE REVENUE STREAM FOR BANKS?
  For quite some time now certain banks and other financial institutions may have been profiting from what some members of Congress are calling an illegitimate revenue stream, namely the deposits of its customers. Today many banks will place “holds” on customer deposits, allowing them to benefit from the interest on the customers funds. This has caused some outrage by the depositors and the concern of key members of Congress.

• Budgeting for the Holidays & Special Events!
  Big events and holidays can often mean big spending. A little pre-planning can help to ease and avoid financial pain. In this article you'll find tips for avoiding overspending and sample worksheets that may be used when planning holiday or big event spending. 
• HOMEOWNER’S GUIDE
  In general, homeowners should budget approximately one percent of their home’s value for maintenance and repairs. If you make a habit of putting aside a small amount of money each month to be earmarked specifically for home maintenance, then it will be less painful when unexpected repairs are needed or when appliances must be replaced.

• HOLIDAY FOOD SAFETY!
  With the various fall and winter holidays upon us, we know everyone is busy. Here is a short list of food safety precautions to take during this holiday season. As always, enjoy the fun and have safe holidays this year.
• So, who's afraid of the big, bad Home Inspection?
  No matter whom you talk to that is involved in a home sale transaction, whether it be the owner, buyer or real estate agent, everyone has a certain amount of reservation concerning a home inspection or “termite” inspection. But why, all that it entails is basically a visual inspection of the home and a short written report, right? So, who’s afraid of the big, bad home inspection? Everyone it seems!

• FAMOUS HAUNTED HOMES!
  Perhaps it wasn't the wind that slammed the door shut or there really is no one to match the footsteps down the hall? Or maybe it is a great marketing ploy for bed and breakfast inns and historical societies? Or maybe people are comforted or enjoy the idea of hauntings? Okay, so not all of us believe in ghosts, but the stories and histories behind many haunted homes can be just as unique as their "spiritual" residents. For a little fun and change of pace, we have compiled a short list of famous haunted homes and buildings in America. Dim the lights, sit back and enjoy a little Halloween-flavored fun and learn a little history too!

• Landscape Your Paradise - How to Select a Landscape Designer!
  Both the front and back yards of your house offer a buffer between your home and the outside world. Often, especially in the case of backyards, they may be manipulated into a sanctuary, giving you a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors at home. Many weekend warriors find outdoor projects fun and rewarding challenges for their spring through fall months. However, sometimes an idea may be too grand or a space too oddly shaped for you to visualize how to put it all together. This is where a landscape designer, the "exterior decorators," may be needed.  They can help in a wide range of outdoor projects whether it be redesigning a whole yard or helping incorporate one feature into your greater masterpiece. Read this article to better prepare yourself for hiring the best landscape designer to help you sculpt your outdoor paradise!

• How to start a NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH!
  Many people are skeptical when they hear about neighborhood watches. Many think it involves a lot of effort with minimal impact or effect. However, most police departments will inform you otherwise. A neighborhood watch can help police crack down on crime due to the simple fact that you are a resident in the area and will more readily notice suspicious, out of place behavior in your neighborhood before they will. An example that is often used is the scenario of the stranger hanging around your neighbor's car. You look out your window and notice a stranger by your neighbor's car and know the car does not belong to them. However, when a cop car drives by, the stranger casually looks up and waves hello. The officer cannot tell if the car belongs to the person or if the person lives in the neighborhood.  Therefore, the officer may wave back and simply drive ahead. So how does a neighborhood watch work? How do you set one up? How can you and your neighbors reduce crime and help the police in your area?

• SUMMER SAFETY TIPS!
  The summer has a pull for us, no matter our age. It is a time to take a few days off work, barbeque in the backyard, go for a picnic, a hike, a swim, a bike ride or go out on the water on our boat. It is also a time to mow and weed the lawn, plant flowers and finish countless chores around the home that have been put off until the weather "cooperated." Needless to say, summer is a busy time when we do more activities and chores and can very easily overexert ourselves. That is why this month we are focusing on some tips that can help you have a fun and safe summer. Part of having fun is being aware of what precautions you should take and how you should plan ahead for whatever you choose to do. But we know you are busy, so here is the quick list for a safe summer!

• PEST CONTROL - Reclaim Your Home From Pests!
  Bugs are a part of life and rodents often come wandering through.  These animals are part of the environment and serve their purpose in the great chain of things.  However, they can become a nuisance and may even be dangerous if they take over our homes.  They are then more aptly called 'pests' and need to be dealt with.  This quick article will give you some preventive tips about how to battle common pests.  You may adjust many of these tips to various bug and critter problems. 

• HOW TO HIRE A CONTRACTOR: Working As A Team On Your Next Home Project!
  You have a great idea of what you want to do but you just don't have the skills to implement it. Whether remodeling the kitchen, a spare room or adding on, some projects are better handled by professional contractors. However, make sure you do not get into an agreement with a contractor on impulse. Instead, picking a contractor should be a selective process that is well researched and prepared. This is not only a financial investment; this person (and their team) will be in your home and working with you on a project that may take days or, more likely, weeks to finish. A sound partnership is important. In this article you'll be given some suggestions for planning out your partnership with a contractor. Also included are a checklist guide and contract example forms from our partner Lawchek®. All are helpful suggestions and tools before hiring any contractor. 

• Setting Your BUDGET!
  You have evaluated the neighborhood and find that your improvement is consistent with general aesthetic and size parameters. You plan to remain in the house for some time. You find that a second mortgage payment will not strain your current monthly budget. You feel you can devote a certain amount of time towards planning the project. And finally, you are really sick of waiting in line to go to the bathroom in your own house!

• FENG SHUI - Another Look at Interior Design.
  Feng Shui (pronounced Fung Shway) has been used in China for centuries and has made a strong entrance into western culture. Best described as "the art of placement" Feng Shui was originally used to determine the placement of temples, official buildings, graveyards and homes in their natural environment. When the western world first came into contact with Feng Shui it was labeled as a form of geomancy which is considered "divination by means of figures or lines or geographic features." Although this may be a misrepresentation of the initial use of Feng Shui, this art is constantly in flux and today there are many different schools, some of which do concentrate on the use of this art as a way to impact ones fate in a favorable direction. This art of placement has some wonderful interior design techniques that everyone could adapt and find beneficial. This article will discuss many of these interior design solutions for cluttered and cramped spaces in the home and office, as well as some of the ideas behind the creation of balance that have become part of this art form. 

• HOME APPRAISAL - What to expect and how to prepare.
  Merriam-Webster's Dictionary defines appraisal as, "a valuation of property by the estimate of an authorized person." This valuation is a determination of your property's market value - what it will likely sell for on the open market. So how is this "valuation" determined? Why does the idea of an "estimate of an authorized person" create so much apprehension about the process? What can you do to achieve a better home appraisal? What do you do if your home doesn't appraise well? In this article we offer answers to commonly asked questions and give clarity to home appraisals.

• Home Security - Keeping your family and possessions safe.
  According to the FBI, burglaries occur every 15.4 seconds in the United States. Therefore, home security is important - not only because the home is one of our biggest investments, but having reliable home security provides peace of mind regarding protecting our family and possessions. Many of us take our security for granted or believe our current security is all we need. There is a belief that burglaries happen to "someone else." Or, if one is robbed, it is just the result of "chance" and there is little that can be done about it. The threat to our inner sanctum and lifetime of possessions is very real. This article will take a look at the ways you can protect your home, one of the most common being a security system, and we will be concentrating on some of the common sense and easy to add options you can do to protect your home.

• Winter Safety Tips - Whether celebrating a holiday or snuggling next to the fire.
  Winter brings many different holidays and celebrations, and during these various festivities we host dinners or gatherings and may have many house guests. And so up go the decorations! Decorating your home for the holidays can be fun, but displaying these items safely is very important. If you have children, pets, house guests, or crazy, exuberant relatives around the house this winter holiday season, you may want to consider some general safety tips. Even if you aren't hosting an event but will be using winter items, such as a fireplace, this article will have a few helpful tips for you. We know you are busy, and the last thing anyone wants to do when planning a party is to think about all the details! Thus, here is simple, quick safety checklist for your winter fun!

• Historical Homes - How to Protect Historical Property.
  Historical landmarks throughout the country provide all citizens with a physical, present experience of our history. Through these landmarks you can not only observe but in many cases feel the original work and walk the spaces of the past. Historical homes help us remember important persons as we can view intimately how they lived; we get to see the most sacred of spaces, their internal sanctum, their home. Where did they read at night for inspiration, where did they write that novel, where did they meet the important guests and characters in their lives? All of these things we can glimpse through seeing history preserved in rock and mortar. 
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part VIII
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance tips for Fall Season.

• Got Attic Mold? How to Diagnose Common Sources.
  It happens to countless homeowners around the end of the year – you make the annual visit to your attic to collect the holiday decorations and what do you find? Spots and blotches covering the bottom of the roof sheathing. Worse yet – it turns out to be attic mold! What does energy conservation have to do with mold in the attic? Well if you take a step back and consider how the house behaves as system, they are often directly related. 
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part VII
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month Part B about maintenance tips for Spring Season.

• Reduce Your Heating Bills This Winter
  Imagine leaving a window open all winter long -- the heat loss, cold drafts and wasted energy! If your home has a folding attic stair, fireplace or clothes dryer, that may be just what is occurring in your home every day. These often overlooked sources of heat loss and air leakage can cause heat to pour out and the cold outside air to rush in -- costing you higher heating bills. 
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part VI
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month Part A about maintenance tips for Spring Season.

• Pet Friendly: Making your Home and Yard Perfect for your Pet
  For many, bringing a pet home is the same as bringing home new family. Pets easily find their way in our hearts with their playful antics and friendly companionship. When you first bring a new pet into your home it is imperative that you are willing to make some adjustments to your living space. This article is aimed at giving hints for all who have pets or will have pets in their home.
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part V
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance that should be covered every 2 years.

• Planning Your Garden Masterpiece
  Whether for an apartment with window boxes and porch containers or a house with acres to play, everyone can create a garden if they want one. There are many wonderful resources online that can help those who want to add plants around their home environment. First we collected some good, free, online landscaping planners that help you plot out your yard and garden before you plant a single seed. Most come with some plant information but we have also collected a list of plant reference sites that detail plant climate preferences, light requirements and much more.
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part IV
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance that should be covered once every year.

• Home Improvement Web Sties - Part II
  These days you can find a web site that covers anything. Included in this trend are home improvement web sites. Some of these helpful sites may be related to a television program (as discussed in our April article 'Home Improvement Television'). However, there are also many that are mostly web based that offer great home improvement hints, tutorials and visual aids.
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part III
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance that should be done every 6 months.

• How to Become a Home Inspector
  Home inspection is an involved career that requires self motivation, great people skills and small business acumen. If you ever wondered how to become a home inspector then read on and review the links provided for a quick guide to this growing career...
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part II
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance that should be done every 2 months, including a periodic checklist of every 3 months.

• Home Improvement Television Shows
  When it comes to home improvement projects, visual examples can teach volumes. Thus enters home improvement television. These TV shows have been around for over two decades and recently there has been an increase in the number of these shows available. However, viewers be savvy..
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part I  
  The first article in a series of 8 by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com. This month an introduction to preventive maintenance you should do for your home.

• Galvanized Pipes in Older Home  
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question, "What is the life expectancy of galvanized pipes in older homes?"
• Water Problems  
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector discusses the sudden onset of water problems in the home.
• Landscape Your Paradise - How to Select a Landscape Designer!
  Both the front and back yards of your house offer a buffer between your home and the outside world. Often, especially in the case of backyards, they may be manipulated into a sanctuary, giving you a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors at home. Many weekend warriors find outdoor projects fun and rewarding challenges for their spring through fall months. However, sometimes an idea may be too grand or a space too oddly shaped for you to visualize how to put it all together. This is where a landscape designer, the "exterior decorators," may be needed.  They can help in a wide range of outdoor projects whether it be redesigning a whole yard or helping incorporate one feature into your greater masterpiece. Read this article to better prepare yourself for hiring the best landscape designer to help you sculpt your outdoor paradise!Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.

• New Home Warranty  
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"What is covered under a new home warranty and does it last past the final inspection of the home?"
• Water Pressure: Too Much or Too Little  
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Why should my water pressure be lowered?"
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part II
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance that should be done every 2 months, including a periodic checklist of every 3 months.

• Setting Your Budget  
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.
• GCI Circuits in Older Homes  
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Do three-pronged plugs ground if the home wiring is the original two wire non-gounded system?"
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part I  
  The first article in a series of 8 by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com. This month an introduction to preventive maintenance you should do for your home.

• New Home Warranty
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"What is covered under a new home warranty and does it last past the final inspection of the home?"
• Water Pressure: Too Much or Too Little
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Why should my water pressure be lowered?"
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part II
  Another article by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com, this month about maintenance that should be done every 2 months, including a periodic checklist of every 3 months.

• Mold and Mildew in Older HVAC Systems
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector discusses how mold and mildew may develop for older HVAC systems.
• Open Electrical Splices
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector discusses the problems of open electrical splices.
• Setting Your Budget  
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.
• Preventive Maintenance Tips for your Home Part I
  The first article in a series of 8 by Rocky Fremin of Freminshomeimprovement.com. This month an introduction to preventive maintenance you should do for your home.

October 2004

• Crack in the Sidewalk
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question, "Should I be concerned about cracks in the sidewalk in front of our home?"
• Slab vs Crawl Space
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Which is better, slab or crawl spaces?"
• Setting Your Budget  
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.

• Appliances and GFCI Circuits
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Should we use our deep freeze in a GFCI circuit?"
• Clothes Dryer Venting: Dos and Don'ts
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector discusses the dos and don'ts of the clothes dryer vent.
• Setting Your Budget  
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.

• Chimney Caps, Yes or No?
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Chimney caps, yes or no?"
• Fogging of Insulated Windows
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"What do I do about fogging insulated windows?"
• Setting Your Budget  
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.

• GCI Circuits in Older Homes
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Do three-pronged plugs ground if the home wiring is the original two wire non-gounded system?"
• One Roof or Two?
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question,"Is placing new shingles on top of old ones a good idea?"
• Setting Your Budget  
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.

• Galvanized Pipes in Older Home
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector answers the question, "What is the life expectancy of galvanized pipes in older homes?"
• Water Problems
  Patrick Mahoney of Sherlock Home Inspector discusses the sudden onset of water problems in the home.
• Setting Your Budget
  Brian Dineen of RCAC provides helpful hints about setting your budget for your next home project.