The Inside Scoop on Winter House Hunting

Realtor.com recently published its Winter Home Buyer Report, which reveals the pros and cons when it comes to searching for a home in the winter months. The most common complaint involves insufficient inventory in a buyer’s preferred price range. 45% of respondents cited this as problematic, while 34% noted the lack of inventory in general. Many respondents also replied that the inclement weather makes house hunting less enjoyable. On the plus side, respondents claim that sellers are more motivated to sell and negotiate, home prices are better, and competition is less severe, allotting buyers more time to make a decision. House hunting in the winter also lets the buyer test a home’s “winter fitness” (drafty windows? inadequate heating system?). Real Estate agents are likely more available, and lenders and movers will be more accessible and sometimes more affordable. You also get the chance to see how well the streets are paved and whether the homes are decorated for the holidays.

Many people (approximately 25%) are currently searching for a home because they were unable to find one during the warmer months. It is also common to see winter buyers who are relocating. Unfortunately, the same problems that discouraged buyers in the summer and fall, such as low inventory, continue to hinder buyers now.

Are you in the market to sell or buy a home? Contact me to see what I can do for you!

All About Fireplaces

With the first snow behind us, it's a good time to start thinking about preparing your fireplace for the winter. At least half of all American households have at least one fireplace. However, they are not to be taken for granted--they can be dangerous if improperly maintained. The National Fire Protection Association cites at least 12,000 U.S. deaths from residential fires each year. Creosote--a highly flammable byproduct of combustion that builds up in chimneys of wood-burning fireplaces, is often responsible.

Cleaning your wood-burning fireplace: It's all about the chimney. The Chimney Sweep Institute of America (CSIA) advises annual inspections by a certified chimney sweep. This way, homeowners can identify potential problems earlier, saving them the costly and timely maintenance fees that would result should the problem go unnoticed. Click here to find a CSIA approved certified professional. After cleaning, ensure that wood is adequately dried and prepared. When you start a fire, don't forget to open the chimney flue, which will enable smoke to exit.

Cleaning your gas fireplace: check burning equipment (i.e, logs) to search for damange. Remove the gas log inserts in order to vacuum or dust them with a dry rag. Use a window cleaner to wipe both sides of the glass, and finish by wiping the exterior using a wet cloth. When all is said and done, sit back and enjoy your evening!

Winter Vacation Escapes

Nigel Maynard wrote about the top 5 snowbird vacation destinations in his article published by At Home Magazine. The term "snowbird" refers to residents from cold states who annually migrate south for the winter. Often times, retirees with second homes in warmer places or people with easily transportable businesses fit this description. Some without second homes choose to travel in their RV. Interestingly, when snowbirds go south, they also ramp up their quality of life. But where exactly do these people go?

No 1: The Florida Panhandle. Nearly 1 million people migrate to Florida every winter. The Sunshine State is noted for its beaches, fishing, and golfing.

No. 2: Galveston, Texas. South Texas is a great option for snowbirds. Galveston is a costal area, while Austin offers a vibrate music scene and outdoor recreation.

No. 3: Joshua Tree, California. Southern California also has a lot to offer. The Coachella Valley (Near Joshua Tree National Park) and desert resort cities are popular among snowbirds. For great weather and world-class golf, go to Palm Springs, Palm Desert, or Indian Wells.

No. 4: Yuma, Arizona. The state's average day time temperature of 70 degrees often draws people to Western Arizona. Yuma offers casino and RV parks, while Quartzsite provides low cost or free public camping areas.

No. 5: Albuquerque, New Mexico. Albuquerque sees over 300 sunny days each year. New Mexico appeals to snowbirds because it offers the best of both worlds: someone can spend a warm day in the lowlands then head over to a nearby ski resort!

Fall Cleaning

Sometimes, Spring cleaning isn't enough. While you've been gone on vacation, dust and cobwebs have accumulated in your home. The answer? Fall cleaning.

Why? Fall cleaning often reduces the stress of spring cleaning. Cleaning outdoor furniture and grills before they are put away for the winter means that you no longer have to clean these items in the spring. Experts say that fall cleaning is actually just as important as spring cleaning, as it's crucial for the general upkeep of a home. 

Where to start: take inventory of your cleaning supplies and where they can be found. Buy any products you know you will need, but do not have. 

What to do: power-wash windows, clean gutters, refresh your dishwasher with baking soda, clean (or replace) your humidifier(s), steam clean carpets, and clean your oven, refrigerator, and kitchen cabinets. 

Think this list is lengthy? It's only a small sample! For a more complete list of recommended fall cleaning activities, click here.  Below is a brief video on how you can inexpensively clean your oven without using harsh chemicals.