Jennifer Srock - Your Casa Grande REALTOR®

Here To Help You Make Informed Decisions

602-743-5100

Lead Based Paint

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Did you know that most homes built prior to 1978 had lead paint? Here is a quick review, FYI.

All sellers with homes built prior to 1978 are required to fill out a lead-based paint disclosure form. The buyer must also be provided a lead-based paint educational booklet. Lead is a highly toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes.Lead may cause a range of health effects such as behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk, because their bodies are growing quickly. [Read more…]

Windows

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Depending on the circumstance, some may be better than others.

Single pane, double pane, thermo pane, triple pane windows, plain glass, leaded glass, low “e” glass, wired glass, and tempered glass, too. WOW – There’s a lot to know! Tempered glass can prevent shattering. Fogged thermal pane windows might need to be replaced if their seals are broken. New argon gas filled windows work well to insulate, while low-e coatings reduce the heat transfer for south facing rooms.

There’s a lot of information on the web, but this site seems to be one of the best.

Plumbing

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You will spot several different types of plumbing systems in any housing market. Copper, galvanized, rigid plastic, polybutylene, and soft plastic are but a few. Certain systems are more prone to having certain problems.Galvanized water pipe is most prone to rusting on the horizontal surfaces (such as under a floor) versus vertical surfaces (running up a wall) and it corrodes from the inside out. Some rigid plastic systems have been recalled, while others have fared very well.

The most reliable types seem to be made of copper, but again there can be issues to check: are the hangers plastic lined? Are there any lead solder joints? A good home inspector can help you identify any problem areas before you buy. There are several reputable inspectors in our area that I would be happy to refer.

Homeowner’s Insurance

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Good insurance policies are hard to come by.

When purchasing a home, you will need to acquire homeowners insurance. In fact, all lenders will require a policy be in place prior to funding the loan. Make sure you have enough coverage. Policies refer to “replacement costs” that may not cover everything.

You should ask your insurance agent a lot of “what if” questions. The deductible amount also plays a big part in setting your premium. Higher deductibles lower the number of claims, and reduce your insurance costs. [Read more…]

Home Wiring

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What a big topic!  Hopefully this gives some good information you can use.

The type of wiring in residential homes generally depends on when and where it was built.  Has it been updated? In the older homes, knob and tube type wiring was the norm, replaced later by plastic-sheathed wiring.

In most cases the newer plastic-sheathed wiring is copper, insulated with plastic and then wrapped with insulation and another layer of plastic for protection. Breaker boxes are another story; sometimes a well-meaning home owner can inadvertently make things unsafe. [Read more…]

Preserve your neighborhood’s appearance & your home’s value.

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What a great idea to help preserve your neighborhood’s appearance & your home’s value.

Go to www.NeighborGram.com and select your grievance. Choose a preset message and your NeighborGram will be mailed to your neighbor within 5-7 days for a $3.95 fee. Remain anonymous or choose to include your name, if you dare.

I hope you don’t get one. LOL

Stucco

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Do you know about artificial stucco being used on some newer homes?

Many newer homes are now being sided with artificial stucco siding, or EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems). This is essentially polystyrene foam with a base coat, reinforcement mesh, then another base coat and then a finishing coat of stucco over the top.

This is a terrific product, as it adds insulation value to the home, not to mention classy looks. However, it can also be a serious and very expensive repair if it isn’t installed correctly and/or water gets behind it.

There are several manufacturers of artificial stucco, and many builders installing it. Having it inspected allows you to know if there is a problem, and even if there isn’t, you will be aware of the areas you need to keep caulked, and what to look for in case of trouble. Get more information on improperly installed EIFS right here.

Asbestos

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It’s good to be aware of it.

Many sales agreements mention asbestos by saying “the buyer is aware asbestos may be used in the construction of this home.” This can be a little unsettling. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and when exposed, tiny particles can be released into the air you breathe.

Asbestos is a common insulator used in many homes, and was used for everything from siding to tape wrapping for furnace air ducts and even sometimes in “popcorn” ceilings. There are several remedies that range from the simple to the complex. [Read more…]

Clutter

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How To Simplify What’s Really Important And Eliminate Clutter

  1. Don’t get lost in sentimentality. Sure, nostalgia can be a great feeling but, are you really going to use or need what you’re hanging on to? How about that prom dress wedding dress? Ok, if you can’t bare to part from it, get it dry cleaned, professionally boxed and store it. Take pictures of favorite stuffed animals or save one to pass to the next generation and donate the rest. [Read more…]

Homeowner’s Arizona Home Maintenance “To Do’s” Checklist

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Arizona Home Maintenance

Checklists are Your Friends

An Ounce of Maintenance is Worth A Pound of Repairs 

When was the last time you gave your house an examination?

Humans need regular health maintenance and Cars need to be serviced about every five thousand kilometers. What about your home though? Homes don’t exactly have an odometer. That’s why it’s important to put your home through a regular inspection and “Arizona home” maintenance routine. By tackling this seasonal and monthly outline of specific tasks, you can keep your household running safely and efficiently all year long. [Read more…]

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