There is something inherently appealing about a brand new house. You don’t have to worry about repairs. You get to choose the appliances, wall colors, countertops, and furnitures. You have the freedom design and decorate it exactly the way you want it. However, buyers who are caught up in the excitement of buying a brand new Denver home tend to think that everything will work perfectly because it’s brand new. That’s not always the case.

There is no such thing as a perfect house

While there are a lot of advantages to buying a newly built house, it can also be plagued with a number of issues. Why? Because there is no such thing as a perfect house.

A house is made up of thousands of pieces. Every single piece of this house is assembled by a group of people, who may commit some mistakes during the construction process.  You can’t always assume that everything is perfect just because it’s new.

New Denver, Colorado homes can be as problematic as older homes. The roof may leak, the heating and air conditioning system could need adjustment, outlets and switches may not work. A lot of other unpleasant things may occur. Unfortunately, most homeowners become aware of these issues after moving in to their new home. That’s kind of a bummer.

Of course, no one wants to deal with expensive and time-consuming repairs after spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on a newly built property. The problem is that most Denver home buyers do even not bother to have their homes inspected, thinking that it is great shape. This is a big mistake.

As a home buyer, you want to make sure that the property you’ll be investing on is structurally sound and free of health risks. As such, it is important to hire a home inspector before buying a house.

Hire a home inspector

Home inspectors can help you pinpoint any issues that could potentially lead to costly repairs. They will also get a good understanding of the overall condition of the property. Not only will it help avoid some expensive surprises down the road, you’ll also feel more certain about your purchase.

A house is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make. As such, it is best to hire the most thorough, licensed inspector you can find. Go online and try to find the best home inspector in your area. Read reviews to give you an idea how they work. Or better yet, ask your family and friends for recommendations.

If you are preparing to sell your Denver Colorado home, you might want to increase your home’s curb appeal and make a good first impression on potential buyers. A lot of Colorado home buyers are making initial drive-bys before they schedule a showing. No one will want to see what’s inside unless they find your home appealing.

Enhancing your home’s curb appeal will give it that nice and finished look that will make people stop and stare. It will also make your house easier to sell.

Here are 5 easy ways to get your home’s exterior looking great. The good thing is, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Dress up the front door

A front door that pops can give a plain exterior a big dose of personality. Make a statement by giving your front door a blast of color and updating your door’s handle and dead-bolt set. This is not only a great visual update, it can also be considered as a practical improvement.

Get the power washer out

Stand at the end of the driveway and try to view the home as a potential buyer would. If you don’t like what you’re seeing, then it’s time to get the power washer out.

Give the exterior of your house a good cleaning. Also, use the power washer to clean the porch, decks, driveways, walkways and the siding.

Add a layer of mulch

Adding a fresh layer of mulch is said to be one of the cheapest ways to improve the look of your yard. This is because mulch helps cover up a multitude of sins. Plus, it makes the area look freshly landscaped.

Trim branches

If you still haven’t done so, go ahead and trim them back now. You want potential buyers to get a clear look at your house when they drive by. So, make sure that low-hanging tree branches are not blocking the view of your home.

Plant in containers

Container gardens can add a welcoming feel to your home. Buy some colorful pots and fill them with vibrant flowers. You can place them on the flowers beds or even on the front porch.

It's officially hail season! That means time for roof repairs and inspections. Your roof is the most important part of your home. It protects your family, your home and your personal belongings from all the weather elements. That said, you want to make sure that the current condition of your roof is above par.

If it has been a while since you had your roof inspected, you might want to schedule an inspection from a qualified inspector today.

Listed below are some of the biggest benefits of having a professional roof inspection.

Peace of mind

A roof inspection is a great way to learn more about the current state of your roof. By making sure that it is in top shape, you can be confident knowing that it can withstand rain, snow, hail and other outside elements. It is recommended to have your roof inspected by a professional every 1 to 2 years.

Professional guidance

There is no better way to ensure that your roof will provide your home the protection it needs and will last longer than to have it checked and inspected periodically.  

Hiring a professional ensures you get the inspection done right. They have the knowledge, skills and experience to spot all areas that need repair. If you decide to forgo professional inspection and do it on your own, you may miss potential problems especially if you’re not familiar with the early signs of damage.

Extend the life of your roof

Getting a roof replacement is expensive, with the price ranging from $7,000 – 20,000.  Regular inspections will help extend the life of your roof while keeping your home and your family protected.

Your roof carries a lot of responsibilities. The best way to keep your home and family safe is with a professional home inspection. Remember, proper attention and maintenance is the key to a long-lasting roof.

Avoid costly and unplanned repair

Professional inspectors can spot damage and help determine minor problems that can become major issues in the future. Some would argue that you don’t need a professional to find large leaks, but some forms of water damage are impossible to detect by untrained eyes. If left unchecked, these problems can pose a threat to your roof’s integrity.

The ability to find the problems early gives you the opportunity to  address the issues in a timely manner. It prevents you from paying thousands of dollars on repair or replacing the entire roof. Plus, it protects your home  from water damage.

It’s officially Spring! That means, it’s allergy season once again. Allergies may not be devastating, but they are definitely a nuisance. If you or any member of your family is having a tough time dealing with allergies, especially during the spring, you might want to take some steps to remove irritants from your home.

This mini guide can help you reduce allergens around the house and take steps to reduce the sneezes and wheezes for the entire family.

Clean the air

According to the EPA, indoor air is 70% more polluted than the outdoor air. That’s alarming considering that most of us spend a decent amount of time inside our homes. How do we keep the indoor air clean and fresh? Changing your HVAC air filters would be a great place to start.

Air conditioner and furnace filters are your first line of defense against dust, mold, pet dander, and indoor pollen. They filter out dust and other irritants that would otherwise circulate throughout the house.

Mind your mattress

If you are allergic to dust, then we suggest that you cover your pillows sand mattress with zip-on dust mite proof covers to protect your sleeping area. Wash pillow cases, blankets and sheets in hot water at least once a week. Also, avoid putting stuff under the bed as clutter attracts dust bunnies.

Implement a no shoes policy

Encourage family members and guests to slip off their shoes at the door to keep pollen and dusts from entering your home. This will prevent you from spreading allergens throughout the house.

Provide exterior and interior doormats to trap shoe muck. Don’t forget to provide indoors slippers for your guests so they don’t have to roam around the house barefooted.

Get rid of wall-to-wall carpeting

Just about every type of allergen accumulates in the carpet, and walking on carpet fibers release these allergens into the air. Tile and hardwood floors are preferable. If getting rid of the carpet is not an option, be sure to vacuum it weekly. Use a vacuum with HEPA filter.

Stick to a regular cleaning schedule

Keeping pet dander, pollen and dust at bay is a continuous process. So be sure to dust and vacuum the house at least once a week. Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning and vacuuming.

During the cold Colorado winter months, most people spend the majority of their time indoors to stay out of the cold. As the weather starts to warm, it’s time to rediscover the outside world and check those areas of your home that need maintenance.

Maintaining a happy and healthy home goes beyond just cleaning and vacuuming. Here are 4 maintenance tips to keep your Denver Colorado home humming for spring.

Check outside faucets

Subzero temperatures can cause water inside the pipes to expand, which results in a massive pipe burst. Once the weather starts warming up, the water thaws and begins to move again. The longer water is allowed to flow, the more you can expect to pay for repairs. As such, it is important to check your outdoor faucets and deal with the problem immediately.

Check the gutters

A debris-clogged gutter can lead to water damage, foundation issues, and extensive roofing damage. The problem is that most homeowners do not give their gutters much thought, unless there’s a problem with them. That’s why it’s important to keep your gutters clean.

Clean your gutters to keep them working like they should. Also, make sure that the downspouts are clear and free from debris and draining away from the foundation. Don’t forget to check for loose or leaky gutters.

Inspect your roof

Winter can take a toll on your Denver home’s roof. Spring is an excellent time to inspect your roof to ensure that it is in top condition.

Get up close and personal with your roof using a ladder. Do you notice gaps in the shingles, loose shingles, wear and tear around the pipes or loose materials? If so, then you should address the problem in the soonest possible time. If left unaddressed, you may find yourself facing water damage. Your roof is your first line of defense against water damage. You want to make sure your it is equipped to handle the elements.

Keep allergens away

According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control, 8% of Americans experience seasonal allergies. With the changing of seasons comes an increased output of pollen from weeds, grass, trees, and the specter of allergic rhinitis.

Don’t wait for spring allergies to happen. Keep allergens at bay by starting your spring cleaning early. Clean and dust every surface of the house. Wash the curtains. Vacuum the floors. Don’t forget to change your air filters.

As tempting as it may be the let the spring breeze in, keep the windows closed to keep pollen out. This will create a safe retreat during the peak pollen season. Change your clothes once you get home. Pollen sticks to fabric, so you may end up spreading them throughout the house.

Your water heater is one of those important household appliances you rely on the most, especially during the chilly winter months. Unfortunately, most people do not give their water heaters much thought until something goes wrong. Just like any other piece of equipment, it needs your attention occasionally to save energy and prolong its life.

When harsh winter weather arrives, you want to make sure your water heater is working efficiently. With these maintenance tips, you can increase your water heater’s efficiency and longevity, saving the hassle and expense of a premature replacement.

Insulate your water heater tank

A water heater tank that is warm to the touch needs additional insulation. Go ahead and touch your tank. Insulating your water heater tank is an easy and inexpensive way to improve the energy efficiency and extend the life of your water heater. It can improve its efficiency by up to 40% and reduce standby heat loss by 25-45%.

Install a heavy insulation blanket if your water heater is located in an unconditioned space such as the attic, garage or basement. Don’t forget to insulate your pipes as well.

Flush the tank

Over time, sediment and sludge can collect and settle at the bottom of your water heater. This will prevent your water heater from running efficiently and may even rack up your energy bills.

Flushing out these deposits will ensure that your water is in top shape and prevent malfunctions. The frequency with which to flush a water heater depends on the amount of water used and the size of the tank.

Check for leaks and drips

Water heater leak is something you shouldn’t ignore. If you do not act fast, it can morph into a major flooding disaster that can cause significant damage to your property.

Look for signs of a water heater leak. If you notice a pool of water beneath the tank, a leak inside the tank could be the culprit. Sometimes, a water leak can be hard to determine, especially if the leak is slow. Let your senses guide you. Turn off external sources of sounds, stand beside your water heater, and listen for the sounds of water rushing or dripping. Follow the sound and search for visual signs of a leak. If you hear water, but no apparent signs of a leak, there may be a break inside the tank.

A pre-listing inspection is done before the house is listed on the market. Some sellers think it’s an unnecessary expense. After all, the buyer will have to get an inspection later on. So, why bother?

There are a few ways that a pre-listing inspection can benefit home sellers. Here are some of them.

Ensures a smoother, more efficient transaction

Selling a house can be stressful. Not knowing if there is something wrong with the house can add to your stress. If you’re the type of person who doesn’t like surprises, then we highly recommend that you have the house inspected before selling.

Getting ahead of the game and understanding your home’s condition is a big boon to your peace of mind. Your inspector will provide you with a thorough report that may help avoid the unpleasant surprises a home inspection may bring to light later on.

There will be less issues for your agent and the buyer’s agent to hash through, and prevent you from becoming entangled in long negotiations. 

Allows seller to make repairs before listing the house

Majority of home buyers are looking for a house that is in pristine, move-in ready condition. They aren’t keen on tackling repairs or renovations after moving in on their new house. By getting a pre-listing inspection, you’ll have a good idea about the overall condition on the house.

You have the option to make repairs before listing the house. Not only will it improve your chances of selling, it can also help you sell for top dollar. Since you have enough time to make repairs, you can still shop around and get the best deals from contractors; thus, helping you save a lot of money in the process.

Helps the seller and agent to price the house more accurately

If you want to sell your house fast, it is important to price it appropriately. The problem is that, most sellers have an inflated view of what their home is worth.

In order to price your home right, you need to look at the selling price of similar houses in the area. Also, you should consider the condition of your home. A pre-listing inspection will help you get a clear picture about the state of your house. This will make pricing the home accurately much easier.

Once the air temperature drops below freezing, pipes in unheated spaces may freeze. Standing water left in the pipes will freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst and flood your home. Damage from frozen or burst pipes can cost thousands of dollars in water damage to your home.

Prepare your plumbing in advance to avoid a costly disaster this winter season.

Insulate pipes

Pipes in unheated spaces such as the garage, attic, and basement are more prone to freezing and bursting. Luckily, preventing freezing pipes can be as easy as installing fiberglass or foam insulation.

Pipe insulation will not prevent your pipes from freezing, it can also improve the life and performance of your plumbing.  

If your home’s plumbing system is not properly insulated, have it wrapped with insulation to keep the pipes warm.

Disconnect water hoses outside your home

As mentioned above, water inside the pipes may freeze and expand during a cold snap. As such, winterizing your outdoor garden hose is a wise move. 

Most exterior faucets have a separate shutoff valve. Locate the shut-off valve and turn it off. Go outside and open the faucet. Drain any water out of the pipe. Let the water run until it is fully drained. Drain the hose entirely of water and store it inside the house.

Keep the heat on

Energy bills rise during the winter. Some people turn the thermostat down in the hopes of saving energy. Saving energy is good. But before you go crazy with turning the thermostat really low, you also have to think about your pipes.

Turning the heat too low increases the risk of frozen and ruptured pipes. Be sure to keep the heat on and set the thermostat to no lower than 55 degrees. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and prevent water inside from freezing. 

It is also a good idea to leave the cabinet doors under the kitchen sink open, so the air can warm the pipes.

Know where your home’s main water valve is

In case of a major incident such a frozen pipe that has burst, you need to shut off water supply to your entire home. Everyone in your home should know where the main shutoff valve is located, and how to turn it off in case of emergency. This is the best protection against a catastrophic water damage.

Your Denver, Colorado house is one of your biggest assets. When it comes time to sell your house, you want to make sure that you get the most money out of it. Often, sellers jack up the selling price, thinking their house is special. After all, they spent several years and have created lots of memories in that house. But in a slow market, it is not uncommon for Colorado sellers to reduce their asking price.

If you are selling your house and you’re thinking about a price reduction, then this blog post is for you. How do you know when it’s time to reduce the asking price for your home? Read on and we’ll tell you more about it.

You’re selling in a buyer’s market

A buyer’s market is a market with lots of inventories. When the inventory is high, the demand falls. In a buyer’s market, buyers have the upper-hand. Given that there are lots of houses to choose from, they would take their time looking at houses until they find the one that suits their taste and their budget.

In order to attract multiple offers, you’ll have to price your home competitively. If you’re motivated to sell and you want to do it fast, then you need to consider the current market value of similar homes in your area. That means, selling your house at a lower price than you initially expect.

If you’re not in a hurry to sell, it might be best to just take the house off the market and continue living in your home until the market rebounds.

You’re not receiving offers

Haven’t received a single purchase offer since you put your house on the market? That can be frustrating, I know. But before you decide to reduce your asking price, you need to determine the reason why you can’t close the deal.

Walk around the house and look at the house from a buyer’s perspective. Does it look nice from the outside? Is it in good shape? Now, take a look at your online listing. Does it include high quality photos? Do the pictures show the best features of your house? If not, then you may want to improve on these aspects and see how it goes.

How about your selling price? We understand that you want to get the most out of your property. But in order to sell it, you need to price it right. Overpricing is the worst mistake a home seller can make. If you’re not willing to reduce your selling price, then you’ll set yourself up for disappointment. Getting a home inspection will also give the seller an idea of how to price the home. If the home is in dyer repair, the price will be lower than expected. 

Water damage is a Colorado homeowner’s worse nightmare.  Whether it comes from a leaky pipe, malfunctioning appliance, burst pipe or a devastating storm, just the thought of water flooding your home is enough to make a homeowner shudder. Luckily, it can be prevented.

Use these tips to minimize the risk of flooding or water damage to your Denver Colorado home this winter.

Prevent frozen pipes

Frozen pipes are no fun. They can cost thousands of dollars in damage, not to mention the risk of mold and microbial growth. 

Pipes in crawl spaces, attics and outside walls are vulnerable to freezing and bursting during the winter months. Water freezes and expands when the temperatures dip below freezing. Since the pipes are rigid, they are likely to burst when there’s too much expansion.

Insulate the pipes that are exposed to cold air. Make sure all the pipes, including the corners and elbows are protected. Also, keep the faucet open during extreme cold weather to release pressure moving down the pipe. This can help reduce the risk of bursting due to frozen pipes. If you are going on vacation, and the weather is very cold outside, we recommend that you leave the heat on in your home.

Check your water heater

Water heaters have an average lifespan of about 8 to 12 years. But if not properly cared for, sediments can build up inside the tank and corrode. Eventually, this may cause your water heater to leak or overflow.

A leaking water heater can cause massive damage. To prevent this from happening, check your water heater periodically for pooling water on the stand it rests on or on the top of the tank. Also, check for moisture surrounding the plumbing connections.

Clean gutters

Cleaning gutters is an easy job to put off. What people fail to realize is that this simple task can actually prevent future water damage.

Your gutter works by directing water away from your home’s foundation. But if there’s a build up of debris in your gutter, it might not be able to do its job properly. As a result, water may spill through the roof, into your foundation and down to your basement.