Exterior Caulking Tip

Summer weather is ideal for an exterior caulking project. Warm weather gives you an opportunity to replace caulk and have time for it to dry. Caulking helps prevent rain and moisture from seeping in and causing rot. Therefore, caulking is an important project that will help protect your home for the long term. Start by carefully removing all caulk that is cracked, crumbling or pulling away. Once removed, check the areas and make sure they are clean and dry. If you discover areas of damage or rot, it’s time to call a professional. 

Now you are ready to replace it. Different products are designed for different projects. Consequently, you should be sure you select the correct caulking for the job. Also, consider choosing exterior caulking that is made to take paint. Chances are you will want to paint at some point and you will be glad you chose the right product.

Exterior Caulking

Caulking can help prevent water damage to your home, so it’s important to check the condition of your exterior caulk regularly. Want more helpful tips? Click here. Would you like information regarding buying or selling a home? Get in touch – we’re here to help you reach your real estate goals.

Pre-Qualified, Pre-Approved or Fully-Underwritten?

Pre-Approved Mortgage

If you read our “How to Shop for a Home Mortgage” and “Mortgage Broker, Banker or Portfolio Lender” blog posts, you might be wondering, “What’s the difference between being pre-qualified, pre-approved and fully-underwritten?” The answer can impact you when it comes to getting your offer accepted – or not. Before we get into the differences … Read more

Pressure Washing Maintenance Tip

It’s perfect weather for pressure washing! While you have your pressure washer out, do your house, driveway, decks, patios and other exterior surfaces. You can do this annually so these surfaces look their best for outdoor fun and entertaining.  However, its something you need to do if you are planning other home improvements and repairs. Make sure you use a low pressure setting so as not to damage wood, siding and mortar.  Consumer reports tips and safety about pressure washing.

If you don’t own a pressure washer, you can rent one at most home improvement stores. However, if you aren’t comfortable handling one, hire a professional. If you are pressure washing your home to have it repainted, make sure the painter you use will pressure wash first. Pressure washing companies are available, along with experienced handyman. Concrete companies may also provide this service if you are updating or replacing concrete. Make sure you get reliable references for anyone you hire to work in and on your home.

pressure washing

Looking for more home maintenance tips? We’ve got you covered. Click here for more. Wondering if it’s time to buy or sell? Give us a call and we’ll go over your options with you.

Mortgage Broker, Banker or Portfolio Lender?

Mortgage Broker, Banker, Lender

Did you read our blog post on “how to shop for a home mortgage?” If so, you already know you should find your mortgage lender before you start shopping for a home. What you may be wondering now is, “What’s the difference between a mortgage broker, mortgage banker, and portfolio lender?” Mortgage Broker A mortgage broker … Read more

Tile Grout Home Maintenance Tip

Clean and re-seal your tile grout to keep it looking great and prevent costly leaks and replacement. Read how expert Bob Vila does it by clicking here .

If you have cleaned your grout and are unhappy with the results, it may be time to replace the grout. Other indicators that your grout needs replacing are:

  • Cracks in the grout
  • Crumbling grout
  • Grout pulling away from the tile
  • Areas of missing grout
  • Tiles coming loose
  • Mold and mildew that won’t clean off

If you take care of and clean your tile grout regularly, you should only have to replace it every 12 to 15 years. Failure to care for the grout may lead to the need for replacement every eight to 10 years. If you need to replace your grout, you could consider doing it yourself. There are a number of expert videos on the internet that detail how to remove and replace grout. However, if you aren’t comfortable doing the job properly, you should call an expert.

tile grout

Wondering if it’s the right time for you to buy or sell a home? Get in touch with us, we have a team of knowledgeable and caring professionals standing by to answer your questions.