Posts in category 'Home Ownership'

Remodeling can give your home a brand new look and feel. It can enhance your comfort and enjoyment of the house, and if you plan it right, remodeling can add a pretty penny to your home's resale value. When planning your remodel, it's essential to choose your projects carefully so that you can get the maximum return on your investment when you put your house on the market among other Atlanta homes for sale.

• The Kitchen
  Kitchen remodels are a top renovation priority. Most people spend a significant amount of time in the kitchen, and your kitchen must have a comfortable, welcoming ambiance. You should select tiles, flooring, and fixtures that create a cohesive, modern atmosphere. And, it never hurts to upgrade your appliances to incorporate the stainless steel, energy efficiency, and reliability that will entice 21st-century homebuyers to make an offer. A mid-range remodel can provide a return of about 80%, while a full remodel will provide an ROI of around 60%.

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A properly installed roof can reach the end of its useful life without experiencing leaks or other signs of failure. It may simply look old and worn out. However, storm damage can wreak havoc on an old roof and cause further problems down the road. So, you need to watch for warning signs that your roof needs replacement even if it looks fine at the moment. Fortunately, our real estate agents have searched far and wide to bring you this list of telltale signs that your roof needs to be replaced.

• Your Roof is at Least 20 Years Old
  All roofing systems have a maximum lifespan. Asphalt shingles, for example, last 15-20 years, while tile roofing can last up to 100 years. Although many shingles today are made for durability, several factors can accelerate aging. For example, harsh storms can damage your roof, compromising its integrity. Poorly ventilated roofs can also negatively impact your shingles and cause them to fail sooner. So, an asphalt shingle roof that is 20 years old should be a signal for replacement regardless of its present condition.

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Whether you've owned your house for years, or you're just now about to buy one of the beautiful Atlanta homes for sale, all homeowners should be able to complete maintenance and repairs around their property. Our real estate agents know that even newer homes will require a little bit of handy work as the years pass. We believe that it's wise to have a handful of specific tools available to use when you need them most. Here are 15 tools that every homeowner needs in their home.

1. Tape Measure
   A tape measure is one tool you should have the minute you move in. As you attempt to move in your existing furniture or purchase new pieces, you'll need to know the exact measurements of specific spaces. We recommend buying a sturdy tap measure for around the house and a smaller tape measure to keep in your car or purse for measuring items in store.

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For most homeowners, the roof is usually an afterthought—at least until you see a brown spot on your ceiling. Then you realize how critical that part of your home is. In addition to protecting your home from natural elements, the roof contributes greatly to the curb appeal and resale value of your house. So, when building a new home, a house addition or re-roofing, it is best to consider roofing options available and then determine what is suitable for your home. You should also look at the climate in your area as well as the architectural style of your home.

There are more types of roofing materials in the marketplace than ever before. Each has its advantages and shortcomings, so choosing one can be tough. Our real estate agents provide a list of the most common types of roofing materials along with their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

1. Asphalt Shingles
   These are the most common roofing materials, covering a great majority of houses in America. The standard-three-tab asphalt shingles often incorporate granulated zinc or copper to prevent the growth of algae. Asphalt shingles are machine-sawed and available in a wide range of different colors both solid and blended. They are highly durable and made to last around 25 years or more. Most asphalt roofing products are affordable and easy to install. However, this roofing material degrades over time due to exposure to the environment. They are also prone to impact damage than harder, thicker roofing.

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Our real estate agents help people with all kinds of financial backgrounds to purchase Atlanta homes for sale. Many people have questions about the process of getting a loan—and most are concerned about what it means for their long-term financial health.

A common question we hear at Josey Young & Brady Realty has to do with pre-payment. Pre-payment is the term for paying off your loan before the anticipated date, typically 15 or 30 years from the time the loan is issued.

Some lenders specify that paying off a large loan early will cause the lender to incur a penalty. However, this practice has largely been done away within the world of home loans. In general, if you end up with a windfall of spare cash, you can pay off your mortgage whenever you wish.

It may seem intuitive that the sooner you pay off your mortgage, the better. It's a huge milestone in life and a weight off your mind. However, it's not always wise to take the plunge.

Even if you end up with a large lump sum such as an inheritance or contest winnings that could pay off your mortgage, you might be better off continuing monthly payments.

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