Real Estate Blog

5 Home Projects That Will Prevent Your Home From Flooding (For All Budgets)

September 15, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

Floods can take many forms, and are in some cases considered to be one of the worst natural catastrophes. Floods can occur in areas near rivers or bodies of water, following a heavy rainfall that causes water levels to rise and in your own home if you have a burst pipe.

Floods are responsible for more than $40 billion of damage each year, regardless of their cause. Floods are the number one cause of natural disaster deaths, with up to 30 people dying each year in their homes.

You can prevent some floods, but you should take precautions to keep your home dry. You have a variety of options depending on the location of your home and your risk factors. The five projects listed below are ranked from the least expensive to the most expensive, so you can decide which one is best for you.

Pipe Insulation

Floods can start inside your home. Sometimes, they start from within. Indoor flooding can be caused by a variety of factors, from a malfunctioning washer to an overflowing bathtub. The most common and dramatic cause of flooding in the home is burst pipes.

When the temperature in the home drops to a level where the water in the pipe freezes, the pipes burst. As the water expands, it freezes. If the temperature drops rapidly and the water freezes quickly enough, it can expand at such a rapid rate that it can cause the metal or plastic pipes to split. When the ice melts, water will then leak out of the cracks or holes.

Insulating your pipes is one way to avoid this. Pipe insulation keeps them at a constant temperature, so they don’t freeze.

Project Cost: $100 to $1,000, depending on the number of pipes at risk.

Installation Difficulty: Precut pipe insulation is easy to install. It slips over the pipes.

Sump Pump

French drains are a passive way to direct water away from your house. Sump pumps are the active solution if you prefer. Sump pumps use a trench as well, but instead of passively funneling water away, they collect it in a pit and then use a powerful pump to force the water out. They are more efficient when paired up with French drains. This is especially true in areas that receive heavy rainfall or homes that have previously experienced flooding. You may need more than one if you have a large home.

Project Cost: $550 to $1,100

Installation Difficulty: Installation is easy if there is already a pit, but can be difficult if you have to dig a trench and a pit.

French Drain

A French drain can help if you live in a region where flooding is a problem due to heavy rain or high water levels. A French drain directs water away from the house. It can be installed either inside or outside of the home to help prevent flooding.

Installed via a trench, it collects water and directs it away from the property. Interior drains may be more expensive but they are more effective at removing water in the most critical areas. They can be installed either in a new home or an existing one. They can also be paired with sump pumps to further reduce your flood risk.

Project Cost: $5,000

Installation Difficulty: It can take a few hours or even days to cut into the ground, or the concrete of your basement.

Foundation Sealing and Waterproofing

Floods do not always occur suddenly. Floods can occur when water slowly accumulates through a crack on your foundation. Over time, the crack can widen and allow more water to enter your home. This can be prevented by waterproofing and sealing the foundation.

Waterproofing is a great way to repair small cracks in your foundation and prevent water from entering. Waterproofing is often paired with sump pumps and French drainages, especially if you live in a place where moisture can easily slope down to the foundation. If your house is located on a hill, or the ground slopes away to the foundation, waterproofing may be the best solution.

Project Cost: $5,000

Installation Difficulty: Sealing and waterproofing may take several hours or even days depending on the condition the foundation.

House Raising

Not every property is a candidate for house raising. If you live near a body water that has been flooded before, house raising may be the best solution for you. House raising is an expensive project that involves lifting your home several feet and then building a new crawl space or foundation below it. The Base Flood Elevation is used to calculate the amount of raising your house. This number takes into consideration the ground elevation, flood zone and how far above the zone your home is already located. If your BFE is ten feet and your home is five feet above the flood zone with a crawlspace below, you will need to raise it another five feet to get out of the zone.

The cost of raising your house can be high, but it can save you thousands in flood damage. This will also protect your home from possible flooding for many years.

Project Cost: $35,500

Installation Difficulty: This is a difficult and invasive procedure that must be done with care to avoid damaging the integrity of your home’s structure.

Protect Your Home From Floods

Floods can be dangerous and costly. They can cause a lot damage in a short period of time and do not discriminate between houses. These five techniques will help you protect your home against flood damage and keep it dry no matter what happens outside.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1033390-5-home-projects-that-will-prevent-your-home-from-flooding-for-all-budgets?rtmpage=

4 Sources for Down Payment and Closing Cost Cash

September 14, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

The majority of loan programs require some form of down payment. Some programs require as little as 3% of the purchase price, while others do not. The VA home loan program, and the USDA rural area program are two of the most popular programs.

VA loans are only available to veterans and a few other borrowers. The USDA program is designed to help populate rural communities by providing financing in areas that conventional programs will not touch.

There are also closing fees associated with obtaining a home loan. At the settlement table, there are certain costs that must be paid. These include an appraisal and credit report. Other charges, also known as recurring charges, are repeated over and over. Interest and homeowners insurance are examples of charges. Where does one get these funds from? Where do you get your funds?

Bank Account

These accounts will be checked by your lender, to ensure that you have the money you claim to have. Lenders will also want to know that these funds are ‘seasoned’, meaning they cannot just appear. A seemingly random deposit is not eligible for use.

Retirement Account

Many retirement accounts let you borrow money from them. Ask your employer if you can borrow from your 401(k). If you are eligible, the lender may have set repayment terms which will be deducted from your paycheck at each payment period. There are no universal 401(k), loan terms. Instead, lenders set their own. The lender sets the terms.

Financial Gift

You may be the lucky recipient of a financial donation from a qualified source or a member of your family. There are non-profit organizations that provide home buying assistance. Donors will need to provide proof that they are making a financial contribution. These funds are typically wired to settlement agent at the closing date. A signed letter from a donor may be required.

Asset Sales

You may also be able sell an appraisal asset in order to raise funds for your down payment or closing costs. Appraisable assets are those whose value can be documented by third parties. You might be able to sell an automobile loan because third parties can provide a current market valuation for the property. It is important to document the sale and the value. The proceeds from the sale must be matched with a deposit into an account that you own.

You can tap into any of these sources. Talk to your loan officer if you have any questions and work out all the details before.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/mortgage-advices/item/1047550-4-sources-for-down-payment-and-closing-cost-cash?rtmpage=null

A Slice of Country Paradise: Exploring the 78-Acre Oasis

September 12, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

Are you dreaming of a country life, surrounded by nature’s beauty and nestled between charming towns? Look no further than this 78-acre haven, a hidden gem bordered by mature oak trees and lush pastureland, a landscape that seamlessly combines rural living with modern comforts.

A Natural Oasis:

As you step onto this property, the first thing that captures your attention is the breathtaking mature oak trees swaying in the Texas breeze. They not only provide shade but also create a sense of tranquility that can only be found in the countryside. The land is fenced and cross-fenced, ensuring security for your livestock and creating distinct, functional areas within the property.

Green’s Creek meanders through the landscape, enhancing the property’s charm with a beautiful pecan bottom, where mature pecan trees thrive. This slice of paradise is not just a homestead; it’s a thriving ecosystem, inviting local wildlife, including deer, to call it home.

Charming Country Rock Home:

At the heart of this property, a rustic country rock home welcomes you with its warmth and character. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this cozy home provides the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. A brand-new HVAC unit ensures year-round comfort for you and your family.

The spacious living room is adorned with a rock fireplace, complete with a hearth and a built-in gun cabinet—a true testament to country living. Additionally, the entryway has a generously sized closet that can be repurposed as a small office, catering to your specific needs.

The separate dining room leads to a well-designed kitchen, complete with ample storage space and built-in appliances. Preparing meals in this kitchen will be a delight as you look out onto the beautiful landscape surrounding your home.

Equestrian Paradise:

For those with a passion for horses, this property is a dream come true. The barn on-site boasts seven stalls and a tack room, ensuring your equine friends are well-cared for. Pipe-working pens and covered feeding troughs are also available, making horse care a breeze.

Additionally, there’s a rock equipment barn, providing ample storage for your farming and ranching equipment, further enhancing the functionality of the property.

A Glimpse of the Past:

As you explore the property, you’ll discover remnants of history. An old rock bridge, once traversed by an old railroad track, still stands, offering a glimpse into the past and the rich history of this land.

The Ideal Lifestyle:

Whether you’re a cattle rancher, horse enthusiast, or simply someone seeking the beauty of the countryside, this property offers the ideal lifestyle. It’s a place where you can truly experience “Country Living at Its Best.”

Schedule a Showing:

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this 78-acre oasis your own. Contact Preferred Properties of Texas today to schedule a showing and experience the beauty, serenity, and endless possibilities that this property has to offer. Embrace the country life you’ve always dreamed of, right here between Stephenville, Dublin, and Hico. https://www.preferredpropertiestx.com/listings/new-listing-78-acres-of-great-horse-and-cattle-property/

Phyllis Tate- Real Estate Agent

phyllist@preferredpropertiestx.com

254-977-4244

Email Phyllis

5 Things That Can Do Double Duty When Cleaning Your House

September 12, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

You don’t need to spend a lot of money on cleaning products and potions. You may be able to get your home cleaner with the products you already have.

Here are some of our products that can do double duty (or triple duty or more!) products:

Mr. Clean Magic Erasers

Baseboards that are dirty. Scuff marks on sneakers. Paint with a crayon or pen. Shower scum. What do they have in common? You can clean them with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Buy them in bulk if you need them and to add to your regular cleaning routine.

Dryer Sheets

The sheet that prevents static cling from your clothes as they dry can be used in other areas of your house. Swiffer Dusters are out and you have guests coming over. Instead, use that Bounce to clean your surfaces. Bonus: If you use scented dryer sheets, the sheets will leave behind a fresh scent. You can also use these sheets to clean window casings and baseboards.

Sponges and Dishwashing gloves

Forget those pots and pans. Sponges and dishwashing glove can be used to remove dog hair from upholstered surfaces. This tip is great for a quick cleanup when you have no time to vacuum. Try a dog brush to remove dog hair from a rug or other surface that is difficult to clean. The short, stiff bristles are ideal for catching the hair.

White Vinegar

Vinegar is not just for salads! Vinegar can be used for a variety of cleaning purposes, and one you can feel good about if you’re looking to stay away from harsh chemicals and commercial cleaners.

The Spruce reported that “if you could invent an eco-cleaning wonder’ product it would probably be similar to white vinegar.” “Vinegar is a cheap, easy-to-find product that has hundreds of uses. It’s also safe and readily available. You can use vinegar in your automatic dishwashing machine for at least two reasons. It can be used to clean dishes, glasses, and plates with a cheap, efficient rinsing solution. Second, it helps clean the dishwasher: Pour a cup of vinegar into an empty dishwashing machine, then run a short cycle. This will remove the soap and lime build-up which can cause your dishwasher to not work at its best.

White vinegar can also be used to clean tile, caulk, windows, hardwood floors and carpet stains. It is also good for cleaning upholstery, mattresses, wood furnishings (when combined olive oil) and glassware. You can probably clean anything in your home with vinegar.”

Lemon

You can use them for more than just a simple squeeze of lemon in your water. Lemon juice, which is high in citric acid and has antibacterial properties, is a natural cleaner that’s great for cleaning.

Here are a few ways to use lemon for cleaning your home:

Spray on chrome faucets
Rub on cutting boards
Squeeze on an old toothbrush to scrub grout
Add two tablespoons of vinegar to a bowl filled with water to clean your microwave
Place a half-lemon on a saucer for a fresh refrigerator scent
Spray a lemon juice and water mixture on windows to make them streak-free.

Use a half-cut lemon to remove hard-water stains from shower doors

Lemon can also breathe life into tarnished metal. Good Housekeeping said that citrus fruits are one of the best cleaners for stains and odors. But they can also remove tarnish from brass. “Sprinkle the problem areas with salt, then use a lemon-juice-soaked sponge to wipe it off.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1026872-5-things-that-can-do-double-duty-when-cleaning-your-house?rtmpage=

How to Restore Land After a Flood

September 7, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

All land owners are exposed to the risk of damage from natural disasters. A post-flooding plan is important for all land owners, especially if you live in a coastal area.

Your plan of action after a flood depends on the extent of flooding and the damage done. Your land type will also be a factor, as certain properties such as agricultural or timberland are more likely to suffer serious, long-term flooding complications.

Here’s what you can do in either case to help your land recover from the damage caused by flooding.

Step One: Assess the Damage

Do a thorough walkthrough of your property as soon as it is safe to do so. This will help you determine the extent of damage. Did the flood drown crops? Are there any large structures, such as trees, that have fallen? Take pictures and get a good overview of the damage.

Step two: Contact the appropriate parties

You can get help from a variety of professional parties. State and federal agencies can provide assistance in the event of a natural disaster, as well as cleaning agencies that are able to help with things such as salvage and debris removal. You should also call your flood insurance provider to begin the claim process.

Step Three: Get Rid of Standing Water

The longer water remains on your land, you are more likely to experience long-term problems like soil contamination and erosion. Sump pumps below ground can be installed in some areas to aid in water removal. However, they may not be suitable for all areas. If you are unsure, call a water removal specialist to help remove standing water and, if necessary, provide drainage options for affected areas.

Step Four: Test Soil

The post-flood cleanup doesn’t stop when your land is dried up. Flooding can have a big impact on soil. You’ll need test the soil and possibly rehabilitate it to get things back to the way they were. It’s best to test your soil after it has dried completely, as this will give you a clearer idea of what you are working with. You should pay attention to moisture levels, decreased Nitrogen, and below-ground debris. These are all things that you need to resolve if you want to see successful regrowth.

Step Five: Leveling the Land

Your post-flood plan should include a final step of leveling any areas affected by soil eroding or deposits. You should be strategic in your leveling efforts. This will not only fix the problem areas, but also prevent them from happening again in the future. Digging new channels or sloping some areas of your property could make a huge difference in the way water flows through your property.

It takes time to recover from a flood, especially if there is a lot of work involved in rebuilding and replanting. Accept help, be patient, and take steps to flood-proof your land in the future. This will ease stress and allow you to get back on track sooner.

Original Blog: https://www.landhub.com/land-news/how-to-restore-land-after-a-flood?inf_contact_key=43946cc45ad9393111304afb1723d8a7680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1

5 Things to Understand About Parcel Boundaries

September 5, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

You probably haven’t thought much about the boundaries of your land since you bought it, unless you are in a dispute over a fence or an overgrown garden. There are no lines on the ground that show where your property ends and begins your neighbor’s.

The importance of parcel boundaries is not limited to neighborly disputes. They are also important in thousands of business, legal and government decisions made every day. Here are five things you might not know about parcel boundaries.

What is the difference between parcel boundary and parcel data?

A parcel is land that has a parcel boundary. The parcel boundary is a perimeter that determines how the parcel will look.

A parcel can be defined either as a point or a shape. A boundary can be translated onto a map as a polygon. No matter how many angles or curves there are, the shape allows for a complete definition. A parcel can be defined by a point located on a map using latitude andlongitude. Sometimes only one point is defined per parcel. This point can have different levels of precision. It could be the rooftop or centroid (the point in the middle of a parcel), or even a zip code. It is important to keep in mind that no matter how precise the latitude/longitude point, it does not tell the entire boundary story.

Why is it important to have parcel boundaries?

There are many reasons why parcel boundaries matter. Here are just a few of them:

Boundaries give perspective, such as distances from landmarks or points-of-interest.
Visualizing the geographic data helps the user understand.
They allow for more complex analysis to create greater insight.
Changes in boundaries can help tell the time.

What are the boundaries used for?

Different industries require parcel boundaries for different reasons.

In land records management parcel maps are used to show the exact location of each parcel boundary. These maps, also known as assessor maps, allow anyone to see the boundaries of their property. These maps are used by county assessors to determine the size of land, which impacts value and tax amounts. They use shape to track the ownership of each piece.

Utility companies like gas and electricity may need to identify properties which could be affected by a power outage, or find the best place to lay new cables, wires, or pipe.

Lenders might want to know which properties in their portfolio have been affected by a disaster. Title companies may also need to calculate the distance from a potential danger, such as a gas station, industrial area, or a landfill.

Evolution from Paper to Digital

Parcels used to be drawn on large-format paper maps. Assessors would write on each parcel a unique identifier (sometimes called an Assessor Parcel Number, or APN), which was used to track the parcels for tax purposes. Most counties now have a Geospatial Information System (GIS) department that uses mapping software instead of paper to create and maintain parcel borders. Digital maps not only make it easier to manage changes but also make them available online.

Coverage, Completeness, & Currency

First American Data & Analytics holds nearly 2.5 million Assessor map in more than 1,100 counties. These maps cover 70% the U.S. populace, but we have 148 million parcel boundaries in almost every county. As with all First American Data & Analytics data from public records, we link these parcel boundaries to taxable areas defined by the Assessor. Some parcels are not taxed. Federal land, state park, tribal land protected forests, bodies water, streets, railways, and government building are some of the types that don’t get taxed.

Parcel boundaries can be updated through sales. This is important for tracking changes in parcel boundaries. It is important to keep track of these changes by having the most recent parcel boundaries. First American Data & Analytics updates parcel boundaries every quarter and is working to implement solutions that will allow this to happen more often. The fact that the county department responsible for recording documents does not maintain the boundaries is one of the challenges in managing a database. It is therefore possible that changes in parcels and owners due to sales are not in sync the actual parcel boundaries found on the county GIS website. First American Data & Analytics corrects the issue by using Public Record Data. This ensures that the correct owner is associated with a shape and points of a parcel.

The First American Difference

First American Data & Analytics simplifies your job by focusing on accuracy and completeness when collecting and curating parcel information. Since decades, we have collected Assessor maps and Public Record Data and have focused on parcel boundaries and specifically linked them to the right properties because we know their importance to our customers. First American Data & Analytics, with its parcel boundaries and public records data linked together, offers a one stop shop for all the best tabular and spatial property data.

Original Blog: https://dna.firstam.com/insights-blog/5-things-to-understand-about-parcel-boundaries