A Handy Guide For New Landlords

Being a landlord can be a very rewarding experience. This is something that experienced landlords Steven Taylor of Taylor Equities knows all too well. Landlords have the chance to build wealth, utilize their secondary properties, and become entrepreneurs in their own right. First-time landlords may need a few tips and pointers before they can become truly successful, though.

Luckily, Steven Taylor Taylor Equities and other real estate pros can help navigate all of the newbies through the process. Preparation is everything. A new landlord is only going to be as successful as the work that they have been putting in ahead of time. Those who thoroughly research the marketplace are poised to reap the highest return on their investment.

Be sure to read on and learn more about these crucial tips!

1. Keep Immaculate Records

Landlords have to become masters of record keeping. Take the time to examine all of the available software. The days of keeping records by hand have come and gone. Sure, the tax benefits that are associated with property ownership are great. However, the landlord is not going to be able to enjoy any of them unless they have kept all of the proper records.

Write-offs become much tougher to defend in these instances. That’s why a landlord needs to know where their money is, where it has been, and where it is going. The conditions of the property also need to be monitored, so that there are no disputes in the long run. Online tracking programs keep the landlord from having to sift through file cabinets filled with handwritten records.

2. Don’t Expect Maximum Occupancy At All Times

There is no shortage of property management tips for new landlords to be aware of but this one might be the most important. Any landlord who is expecting to fill every possible vacancy in perpetuity is setting themselves up for a major letdown. Loss of income insurance can provide protection for first-time landlords who experience natural disasters or issues that are out of their control.

High rent and low demand are issues that a landlord has to face on their own, though. A first-time landlord that does not have money saved to help them through the tougher times may struggle to keep up with their mortgage. If these types of issues become a regular hassle, it may be time for the landlord to start decreasing their rent prices (or adding amenities!)

3. Be Upfront With Tenants

Some first-time landlords may view this as an obvious tip but that’s not always the case. On-time rent payments must be a priority and without these monies, the business will not be successful. Make expectations clear with tenants when they move in, so there is no confusion later on. Due dates must be established, as well as grace periods.

Penalty payments have to be enforced. Otherwise, tenants will come to believe that on-time payments are not an actual priority. Check the tenants’ rental histories, speak to past landlords when necessary, and take a closer look at their credit report. This paints a very clear picture of the type of person that is being rented to. Responsible residents are a must.

Reasons To Maintain Your Chill Water Pump

As a business owner, you understand the importance of maintaining a comfortable work environment for your employees. When your employees are comfortable inside, no matter the weather outside, productivity remains high and business hums. In order to keep everyone happy, it’s in your best interest to complete regular maintenance on all of the systems in your building, including the systems within the systems, such as the chill water pumps in your A/C unit. Here are a few reminders about the importance of regular maintenance to prevent issues.

Reduce the Risk of Breakdowns

If your air conditioner unit is going to break down, it will likely be on one of the hottest days of the year. Unfortunate coincidence? Maybe, but sometimes a breakdown can be the result of your system being overworked. Have a professional come once or twice a year to conduct regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs on the chill water pumps NYC that your system depends on to run properly so that you can avoid major interruptions to your business.

Extend Equipment Lifespan

Regular maintenance of your air conditioner system, from the inside out, not only prevents breakdowns, but can extend the overall lifespan of your system. Instead of barely squeaking by with the ten year minimum the system is supposed to last, regular maintenance could push it to the top end of its intended lifespan, or even over. Repairing or replacing an internal mechanism is generally less expensive than replacing the entire system.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Finally, regular inspection of your system will improve the efficiency of it. If your system is clean, and there are no leaks or drips, hard water blockages, or rust interfering with performance, your energy bills should be entirely reasonable. High energy bills are often indicators of a problem with your system.

By allowing a professional to regularly inspect your big building systems, there are less opportunities for climate issues to interfere with your business’s success.

4 Signs of a Bad Hot Water Heater

One of the joys of modern living for many people is the ability to have hot water come pouring out of a tap whenever it is desired. Unfortunately, hot water heaters do not last forever and will need to be repaired or replaced when they begin to break down. Some signs that there is a problem with the hot water heater include leaks, unusual noises, problems with the temperature and discolored water.

1. Leaks

For people who have their hot water heater in a regularly used area of the house, one of the most noticeable signs is a leaky tank. While a bit of condensation on the tank is normal, a pool of water or a steady drip from pipes or the tank itself is usually an issue. If a leak is spotted, the pipes, valves, fittings and the tank itself should be examined to determine exactly where the water is escaping and how to fix it. If unsure about how to proceed, contact someone experienced with plumbing repairs Woodstock GA for assistance, as attempting to fix a leaky heater without the help of a professional may result in a voided warranty or other issues.

2. Odd Noises

Over time, mineral deposits harden on the bottom of the tank and create a layer of sediment that reduces the efficiency of the water heater. This layer creates a barrier between the heating element and the water itself, causing the hot water heater to work harder to bring the water up to the correct temperature. As the water heater struggles to heat the water, the tank becomes overheated and banging, popping or rumbling noises may result.

3. Temperature Problems

Another issue that is caused by the deposit of mineral sediments is temperature decreases. If the hot water is no longer as hot as it used to be, or it runs out quickly after the tap is turned on, then that could indicate problems with minerals building up in the bottom of the tank.

4. Discolored Water

If the water pouring out of the tap looks rusty, cloudy or mucky, then it is a sign that rust or bacteria is building up in the tank. The water may also have an unpleasant odor associated with it as well. Check the cold water tap to be sure the problem is isolated to the hot water tank to narrow down the problem.

Having a hot water heater in the home is normally a wonderful thing. However, it must be properly maintained in order to function well and not break down prematurely. Talk to an expert for advice about how to maintain the model owned to ensure years of use.

Keeping Your Home’s Outside Stronger Than Weather

First-time homeowners discover very quickly that there’s always a project that needs to be done. If you want to maintain or grow the aesthetic and financial value of your home, you must commit to upkeeping it inside and out. That’s easier said than done in some parts of the country than others. If you live somewhere with extreme heat and cold, as well as rain, snow, and high winds, you may find this challenging. The best thing you can do is to plan and understand what your home needs.

Weatherproofing

Investing in weatherproofing is essential. Whether you need to hire professionals for stucco weatherproofing Albuquerque NM, or treat wood or vinyl yourself, you must research and educate yourself about what your home’s exterior materials need to defend themselves against the weather in your area.

Cleaning

While most people clean the inside of their house regularly, it never occurs to many of them to clean the outside. Or, they simply don’t know how to do it properly. While it may seem intimidating, basic exterior home cleaning is often simpler than it may appear. This is again a matter of understanding what material you’re working with. Pressure washing is generally the best option, and you can more than likely do it yourself. You just need to have a clear understanding of the equipment you need, the amount of pressure to apply, and how to wash from a safe distance.

Alternatives to Wood or Stone

If this all seems to be more work than you’re up for, you can always outfit your house with something a little more manageable. Vinyl siding doesn’t suffer the effects of weather in the same way that painted wood does. It can also emulate many different materials and resemble wood or stone at a glance. The same is true of metal, to an extent.

 

Home Search Preparation Tips

Hunting for a new home is exciting, but the process may seem overwhelming. You can’t just search “Smithfield VA homes for sale” and find the perfect candidate. However, with a little preparation and a few tips and tricks, you can find the right house for you.

Handle the Money

If you will need to get a mortgage loan for your new home, you should make sure your finances are in order. Pay off debt and save for a down payment. Identify any bad marks on your credit that need to be fixed before you pursue a mortgage loan. Organize your financial records so they are available to lenders when you start applying for loans.

Next, research loan options, such as interest rates, length of the mortgage loan and other loan terms, such as prepayment penalties. Calculate the payment you can afford each month and base your house budget on that amount. Most lenders suggest that you purchase a home no more than 2-3 times your annual gross income, but a payment that is no more than 25% of your take-home pay.

Write Down What You Want

Only you can clearly define your needs and wants. For example, how many bedrooms and bathrooms do you want? Do you need any extra rooms, such as art studios or offices, or bonus space for a home theater or kids play area? Do you want to live in a condo or have a yard for your children? You may even want to live in a rural area with some acreage rather than living in town. Think about your immediate and long-term needs.

Choose Areas

If you are moving to a new town, choosing the right area may take a bit of extra work. For example, you may have to ask your coworkers, boss or real estate professionals about the best neighborhoods or rural areas and their proximity to good schools and your office.

Next, research these areas. Find out their crime rates, average home price and average home size and composition. You won’t be looking for a four-bedroom house in a neighborhood filled with 2-bedroom homes or lots of condo development. You also want to learn about the home values in the area and their rate of appreciation or depreciation.

Let the Search Begin

Start with an in-depth online search of the homes in your desired areas and make a list. Then, consider contacting a reputable real estate agent, preferably one who belongs to the National Association of Realtors®. Be realistic about what you can afford and avoid going over budget.

Take the uncertainty out of finding a new home with a little preparation and a great real estate agent.

Your Leaky Sink Deserves Immediate Attention

Some household troubles just don’t seem as serious as others. The bathroom’s dripping faucet, for instance, often becomes overlooked, put aside for another day. While it may seem innocuous, that little bit of water, however, could spell major issues without the right attention. Homeowners, therefore, should put it at the top of the list, tackling it before hazards such as mold occur.

Why Is A Leak Concerning?

When fluid enters into porous objects such as drywall, furniture or flooring, it penetrates deep into the object. The dampness interacts with naturally existing microbes, triggering them to breed. Fungus, for example, inhabits most spaces. It is often harmless. When moisture meets it, though, it begins to reproduce and decompose the organic matter. The pipe’s trickling, then, could be starting an unfortunate mold infestation.

What Should Owners Do?

Seek the assistance of a plumber, fixing the source of the water exposure. Air out the location to the best of your ability. In fact, consider running a dehumidifier for a day or two as an extra means of security. Once this is done, the impacted structure should be assessed, determining if growth has begun. If it has, residents may contact a company that specializes in mold inspection and remediation Albany NY. The experts can evaluate what areas require tear out and treatment.

Why Doesn’t Bleach Work?

Household cleaners such as bleach eradicate surface microorganisms, yet these chemicals do not absorb into materials. Lingering spores could persist with spots reappearing down the road. Because sprays and washes do not get to the innermost contamination, removal offers a more reliable solution.

Leaks are serious events. Although seemingly miniscule, the situation has the potential to grow into a major headache. For this reason, keep an eye on how well the plumbing system functions, fixing anything questionable as soon as possible.

Rust Busters

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What we call “rust” has an official name: iron oxide. Simply put, rust is what happens when it meets up with air and moisture. The process is called oxidization. However, oxidization is not limited to metal. It occurs within the human body as well.

Iron Rust

You would not have to search hard to find examples of rust if you went for a walk in your neighborhood. You might even find something in your own back yard. A coat of paint will protect an iron surface, but only for so long. As soon as pain begins to chip off, moisture and air can start oxidizing the metal.

It does not just cause metal to lose its shine and turn colors, it actually dissolves it. Over enough time, if you don’t seek out rust repair for garden furniture Willow Grove PA, it will collapse under you because it isn’t metal anymore, just a byproduct of metal’s corrosion.

Human “Rust”

Although humans don’t turn orange and crumbly, our bodies can also experience oxidization. Free radicals are molecules missing an electron and they are constantly searching for one to steal. Unless we are protected from free radicals by antioxidants, our cells can be robbed from and damaged. This is called oxidative stress and can cause many diseases. It also causes wrinkles if the damaged molecules are on the face.

Free radicals stop this from happening by donating the electrons themselves. Otherwise there would be an endless chain reaction in our cells because the molecules that are robbed of electrons will then try to get that electron from another cell.

For oxidative damage on furniture and other outside metal objects, call a restorer. To prevent oxidative damage in our bodies, eat plenty of foods containing antioxidants and use them on the skin as well.

Maintenance Jobs You Can’t Neglect at Your Company

Owning your company’s building is a great step towards financial independence. While you can rent a workspace for your first few years, dedicated business owners know that it’s better to have control of your building. To make sure that your office remains an asset for years, keep up with these maintenance projects.

Replace Your Roof

Most roofs last for 30 years, but that lifetime decreases if you live in an area with lots of bad weather or if the current roof was poorly constructed. To avoid losing money to unnecessary heating costs, have a company specializing in general construction solutions Freedom CA inspect your roof and determine whether it’s time for an upgrade.

Clean Your Gutters

While most building owners only clean out their gutters every spring, it’s best to do so every season. Pay a landscaping company to remove dead leaves, seeds, and animals from your gutters before seasonal bad weather begins. This cuts down on the cost of gutter repairs and keeps extra water from overflowing and ruining your siding.

Repave Your Parking Lot

Every winter, water gets stuck in tiny cracks inside your parking lot, freezes, and expands those cracks. Not only are ruptures in your parking lot unattractive, but they also create a safety hazard for customers and employees as they try to enter your building. Every two years, invest in sealcoating for your parking lot, and every twenty years, repave the entire space. Don’t forget to repaint the parking space and pedestrian crossing lines after you finish these processes.

To continually improve your property’s value, keep up a strict maintenance schedule at your company. That way, when you need to apply for a loan or another funding opportunity, your building can serve as collateral. This is a particularly good strategy for small businesses that don’t meet banks’ requirements otherwise.

Reasons to Invest in Professional Carpet Cleaning

Some home and business owners do not realize that, along with regular spot cleaning and vacuuming, investing in professional carpet cleaning is essential. Carpets make any room more comfortable; however, the carpeting may become full of harmful debris and pollutants without proper cleaning and care and begin to look dull.

While carpet cleaning is an expense, it is one that is worth making. Keep reading to learn the most significant benefits of carpet cleaning Santa Monica.

Extend Your Carpet’s Life

Carpeting is often installed in a high-traffic area. This means that allergens, dirt, dust, and many other debris may build up in the fibers. This accumulation results in the carpet fibers splitting and the carpet starting to deteriorate as time passes. When you invest in regular cleanings provided by the professionals, all the built-up dirt and debris are removed, which protects the carpeting and extends its useful life.

Improve the Look of the Room

When a professional carpet cleaner is hired, they will use hot water extraction to clean the carpeting fully. Not only will this effectively remove allergens, debris, and dirt, but it will also remove any stains that are present. Using expert methods and high-quality products means that carpet cleaners can remove even stubborn stains, such as pet stains, wine spills, coffee spills, and so much more. Professionals will also help ensure your carpet smells, feels, and looks like new.

Improve the Health of the Space

With so much foot traffic, carpets take a lot of abuse. As time passes, the fibers may be packed full of dirt, allergens, pollutants, bacteria, dust mites, and so much more. All these particles can result in serious respiratory issues, adverse health issues, and allergic reactions. If you are already dealing with breathing problems, like snoring, allergies, or asthma, they will benefit from professional carpet cleaning services.

Many people don’t realize that mold may grow in their carpet if they are in a humid environment. If this happens, the entire carpeting may have to be removed. However, with professional cleaning services, this is a problem that can be prevented.

Don’t Wait to Schedule Professional Carpet Cleaning

If you have carpets in your home or business, you should not put off calling for service. As time passes, the problem is only going to get worse and cause even more problems. Knowing why professional carpet cleaning is so essential is the best way to ensure your carpeting looks and smells fantastic.

3 Tips for Choosing A Roof Repair Service

You might not think about the upkeep of your roof, but it’s as important to your home’s wellbeing as any other aspect of home maintenance. Here are some tips for choosing a roof repair service.

1. Using Anchors

Because repair work usually involves patching the roof instead of stripping and replacing it, your contractor will need to use anchors for safety. Anchors are a unique safety feature of roof repair because they’re places where workers and attach a lifeline to prevent falls. Some roofs have anchors installed when they’re constructed; others need to be retrofitted. Either way, anchors are part of an OSHA standard roof repair safety plan, along with ladders or scaffolds, work zones and safe locations for tools, supplies and removed debris.

2. Choosing a Contractor

Be sure to shop around when you’re looking for a roof repair service. Different repairs, such as water damage or a fallen tree, might require different kinds of expertise. A custom home may have specifications for roof repairs.  One contractor that does roof repair St Louis County MO could have experience in both private and commercial roof repair, while another might only work on private roof repair. Make sure you choose the best option for your needs. 

3. Choosing Roofing Materials

Additionally, you need to be sure the contractor you choose uses quality materials. Look for materials with good warranties that are also made to last a long time. Many of these materials are affordable, but if you need to replace them often, say after a few years instead of a decade, your repair costs will be higher in the long-run. Composite shingles are the most common material, but you can also choose asphalt, metal, clay or wood.

Roof repair services help you maintain the integrity of your roof and fix unexpected damage without you needing to try to fix it yourself.