Welcome to the November / December Issue
Welcome to the latest issue of Inspection Connection, a complimentary e-newsletter for real estate professionals filled with home inspection-related tips, news and information to help you provide superior service to your clients during the home inspection process.
Our goal: To provide you with clear, accurate, and concise information that makes your job easier and helps you navigate the home inspection process during a real estate transaction.
IN THIS ISSUE...
Remodeling a Home Still Pays Off
The remodeling industry shrank a bit in 2008, as concerned consumers zipped wallets tighter amid an uncertain economy and real estate market, according to data from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. Yet, remodeling still provides a good bang for the buck, according to the 2008-2009 “Cost vs. Value” survey from Remodeling Magazine.
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Net-Zero and Near-Zero Homes
There’s a new buzzword in the green building industry: “Net Zero” and “Near Zero” construction. Homes thus labeled are outfitted with energy-efficient materials (tighter insulation, draft-resistant windows and doors) as well as solar features which enable a home to actually produce energy and, thus, consume less (or no) power from the local grid.
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Things You Can Inspect & Do to Your Home before Winter Hits
As a homeowner, you probably know that there are a handful of maintenance tasks you need to complete as you prepare for the harsh, winter conditions. But you may not have a carefully crafted and comprehensive list of tasks. Whether you're making your list or want to compare your own against ours, here's what we consider the essential must do's for the home before winter hits.
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Study of the Life Expectancy of Home Components
How many years of service can a home owner reasonably expect from the various components of a home? An NAHB study sponsored by Bank of America Home Equity takes some of the mystery out of the subject. In early 2007, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) updated its previous report on the life expectancy of housing components.
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