Maintaining the pristine condition of fabric sofas and chairs is an ongoing challenge for homeowners. In a busy home, accidental spills and the occasional stain are pretty much inevitable. The key to preserving the looks and longevity of your upholstered furniture lies not in preventing every accident, but in mastering the art of stain removal.
This guide to dealing with stains on fabric sofas and chairs will help you keep your soft furnishings looking great, and could even extend their lifespan.
Understanding your fabric’s cleaning code
Before embarking on any stain removal, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with your furniture’s fabric cleaning code.
This code is typically found on the care label, and is your key to selecting the right cleaning solution without causing damage. There are four primary codes to look out for:
W: Signifies that water-based cleaners are safe to use.
S: Indicates the need for solvent-based cleaners.
S/W: Suggests that either solvent-based or water-based cleaners can be used, depending on the stain type.
X: Advises against any wet cleaning, recommending brushing or vacuuming only.
Identifying and adhering to these codes ensures the correct treatment for your upholstered items, preventing potential damage from inappropriate cleaning methods. For stains that prove challenging or for items marked with an ‘X,’ considering a professional sofa cleaning service London might be the best course of action to ensure your furniture receives the care it deserves without risking damage.
Immediate action for fresh stains
When a spill occurs on your fabric sofa or chair, it’s important to act quickly.
The first step is to blot the stain gently with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel, absorbing as much of the spill as possible. It’s critical to avoid rubbing the stain, as this can work the spill deeper into the fabric fibres, making it more challenging to remove. By blotting, you’re not only preventing the stain from setting, but also minimising the risk of spreading the spill further.
This initial response can significantly enhance the effectiveness of any subsequent cleaning efforts.
DIY solutions for common stains
For general stains, a homemade solution comprising baking soda, washing-up liquid, white vinegar, and warm water can work wonders. This mixture leverages the cleaning power of these common household items to break down and lift a variety of stains from fabric surfaces. Simply mix these ingredients to create a frothy solution, apply it directly to the stain, and after letting it sit for a few minutes, wipe away with a clean cloth to reveal a cleaner surface.
In the case of ink stains, which can be particularly stubborn, applying rubbing alcohol to the area with a white cloth can be effective. The alcohol acts as a solvent, helping to dissolve the ink and making it easier to blot away. It’s important to use gentle pressure and work in circular motions to cover the entire stained area without spreading the stain further.
These DIY solutions provide a first line of defence against common stains, using readily available products to restore the look of your furniture.
Commercial stain removers: when to use them
At times, the stubbornness of certain stains like coffee, wine, or grass may be too much for a homemade stain remover. This is where commercial stain removers may be a good option. Such products often incorporate enzymes or bleaching agents tailored for tough stains, offering a more targeted approach.
The golden rule before using commercial stain removers on your cherished furniture is to perform a discreet spot test. You need to make sure the selected product does not harm the fabric before you go ahead.
Special techniques for difficult stains
For more persistent or older stains, a combination of baking soda and dry carpet cleaner can be a formidable ally. This duo is particularly adept at neutralising odours and lifting stubborn stains from fabric sofas and chairs. Sprinkle onto the stain, leave it for around 20 minutes, then vacuum.
For permanent marker stains, the solution might be as close as your bathroom cabinet. Toothpaste, especially when applied with care and a bit of elbow grease, can lift these daunting stains. The mild abrasives in toothpaste gently work against the stain, helping to erase the marks without leaving a trace on the fabric itself.
Professional help: knowing when to call in experts
Despite your best efforts, there are times when DIY methods simply don’t cut it. This is particularly true for delicate fabrics that demand a gentle touch, or stains that have settled into the fibres of your furniture. Recognising when to call in professional cleaning services is key.
Professionals possess the expertise, equipment, and specialised cleaning solutions that are often beyond the reach of household remedies. Whether it’s an heirloom chair or a cherished sofa, entrusting these pieces to experts can ensure they are restored without the risk of damage. In situations where the fabric bears an “X” cleaning code, or when faced with a stain that has resisted all attempts at removal, seeking professional assistance is often the best option.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of fabric furniture maintenance requires a blend of knowledge, prompt action, and sometimes, the wisdom to call in the professionals. Understanding your furniture’s fabric cleaning code lays the foundation for effective care, guiding you to the right cleaning methods. The importance of acting swiftly on spills cannot be overstated, as it significantly increases the chances of stain removal. Equipping yourself with a variety of DIY and commercial solutions will prepare you for most eventualities. However, regular maintenance is the best strategy to keep your furniture looking its best. And when faced with a challenge that exceeds your capabilities, recognising the value of professional cleaning services can save you not just time and effort, but also safeguard the beauty and longevity of your furniture.
As the flowers start to bloom and temperatures start to rise, it’s time to give your mobile home a refreshing makeover for spring.
Whether you’re looking to enhance the aesthetics, improve functionality, or simply breathe new life into your space, there are plenty of simple yet effective ways to freshen up your mobile home. Here are some expert tips to help you usher in the season with a renewed sense of vitality.
Declutter and organise
As a first step towards making any other changes, you should start by clearing and organising your mobile home.
Remove any extra objects that you have stored during the winter months. Donate, recycle, or throw away items you no longer need, then look for efficient ways to keep things tidy and stored away. An orderly environment creates an instant impression of more space, and is also more welcoming. If you’re buying your first mobile home, consider auto salvage lancaster.
Bring in natural light
Increasing the amount of natural light in a mobile home helps to create a living space that will be more pleasant to spend time in.
Washing the windows inside and out is an easy way to make the most of natural light. You could also consider buying new curtains or venetian blinds that let the light through, but still provide privacy.
Update your decor
You can add freshness and style to your mobile home through changes in your décor.
Replace heavy winter textiles such as blankets and throw pillows with lighter cottons and linens in pastel shades or floral patterns. You could also be inspired by nature and add some fresh flowers, potted plants or vibrant artworks to bring a hint of springtime beauty to your mobile home.
A fresh coat of paint
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in transforming the look and feel of your mobile home.
Choose light, neutral colours to make the space feel larger and more open. Consider painting an accent wall in a bold, spring-inspired hue to add visual interest and personality.
Upgrade your outdoor space
Your springtime update is not limited to your mobile home interior. If it’s a static home, you can tidy up the patio, adding comfortable chairs, colourful cushions, and outdoor rugs to create a pleasant sitting area. Planters and baskets are another low-cost way to spruce up the exterior space.
Deep clean your mobile home
Spring is a good opportunity to get your mobile home as clean as it can be by removing whatever dust, dirt, and grime remains.
Focus on areas that are often overlooked, such as baseboards, light fixtures, and air vents. You could even rent a carpet cleaner or get a professional deep clean of carpets and upholstery.
Check for maintenance issues
Spring is the perfect time to deal with any problems that have appeared during winter. Walk through your mobile home and look for signs of wear, including worn out taps, draughty windows, or cracked siding. Taking care of the above-mentioned issues will not only mitigate more serious problems in the future, but also prepare your home for enjoying the new season.
Conclusion
Implement these easy, but powerful tips, and you’ll be well on the way to a refreshed mobile home. Sorting out and organising the space, refreshing your interior, and tackling small repairs are all great ways to give your living space a new lease of life. It’s not just about aesthetics – it’s also about creating a comfortable and functional living space that enhances your quality of life.
Getting ready to welcome your baby into the world can be stressful, as you naturally want everything to be perfect. It’s a busy time, but it’s definitely worth deep cleaning your house and getting it in order before you bring your newborn home.
Here’s a quick guide to help keep you on track and prepare your home for the new arrival.
Declutter your house
You’ve probably got things in your house that you don’t need or use any more. Now is the time to organise and declutter your living space; doing it before your baby’s arrival will create a clean and safe home for them.
Before you start to declutter, try making a checklist of the messiest rooms in your home. This will ensure you don’t miss anything and focus on the biggest wins. A great tip is to get rid of bigger items first, such as furniture, and then move onto smaller items.
Once you’ve cleared out unnecessary items, organise your belongings in designated areas. Baskets and storage furniture are great for keeping everything tidy and easy to find.
Get rid of cobwebs and dust
Even if they are not always visible, cobwebs are commonly present in the corners of ceilings. You probably don’t pay much attention to the tops of your furniture, so you might find a layer of dust on there too.
To get rid of cobwebs easily, use a long-handled duster or a vacuum attachment to reach the corners of the ceiling. Make this a regular step in your cleaning routine to prevent their reappearance.
When it comes to the dust collected on furniture, this can require a bit more effort, especially in kitchens where grease may be involved. Start by wiping excess dust away with a clean cloth, then use warm water and your usual cleaning product to remove the rest of the dirt.
Deep clean fabrics
A deep clean of the fabrics in your house includes your sofa, curtains and carpet.
Fabric items can contain lots of dust and dirt collected over time that isn’t always visible at first sight. You might want to consider asking for professional help for your sofa cleaning to remove germs and bacteria that could be dangerous for your newborn. Carpets are also a hard job when it comes to deep cleaning, so it’s a safe choice to leave this to professional cleaners as well. You can still contribute to the cleaning process by choosing to wash curtains yourself.
Clean the furniture
Your cabinets can quickly become greasy and dirty, especially in the kitchen. To prevent germs, they need to be cleaned regularly.
You can create your own cleaning product using warm water and a liquid soap or vinegar. You can also buy a wide range of safe cleaning products designed for specific materials like wood to prevent any damage.
For regular cleaning, when you don’t have much time to dedicate to this step, consider furniture wipes to make the job easier and quicker.
Vacuum and mop floors
To ensure a proper clean of your flooring, you need to move the furniture and prioritise the areas you usually don’t have easy access to. You may be surprised by the dirt under your cabinetry and sofa, for example.
Vacuuming and mopping are both essential steps to integrate into your cleaning routine. Your flooring represents a trafficked area of your house, and it’s easy to bring germs inside any time you enter while wearing outside shoes. This is particularly important when your baby starts to crawl.
Sanitise your baby’s nursery
Your baby’s nursery will be a place where both you and your baby spend a lot of time, so it needs proper cleaning. Make sure you avoid any substance that contains toxic chemicals and conduct some research on baby-safe options.
After a deep clean of flooring, furniture and walls, you need to sanitise using non-toxic substances that are still powerful enough to eliminate germs and bacteria from your newborn’s room. It’s also a good idea to implement a no-shoe rule to keep contamination to a minimum.
The bottom line
Getting your home ready for your new baby can feel like an endless process, but if you get organised with the cleaning it can feel less daunting. Remember that you can always ask friends and family for help, or even contact professionals to make sure your house is spotless before your newborn’s arrival. By making a plan and asking for help when you need it, you’ll be all set and ready to welcome your baby into a lovely home.
For many people, asbestos brings to mind an image of unregulated worksites from the 1960s, or structures built in chaotic environments in the developing world. The reality is that asbestos is prevalent in a number of existing structures, and the danger it poses isn’t going anywhere.
In this article, we take a closer look at the topic, from why asbestos is a dangerous substance to the kinds of materials it can be found in. By the end, you should be convinced that asbestos is still absolutely something to watch out for today.
What is asbestos?
First, let’s learn more about what we’re dealing with. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with a number of properties that make it perfect for building with. It’s highly heat resistant, cheap, and an excellent insulator.
Asbestos was seen as such a seemingly perfect material, in fact, that it was used in a wide range of different structures, from homes to schools, for a long period of time.
While the dangers of asbestos were known from as early as around 1900, it wasn’t banned in the UK until 1999. This means that it can potentially be found in any structure that was built before then, but particularly those built between around 1960 and 1980.
Why is asbestos dangerous?
While asbestos is perfect for a wide range of building applications, it has one unfortunate downside: it’s highly carcinogenic. Those who inhale asbestos are at higher risk of a wide range of cancers including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
It can also cause a condition called asbestosis, which is essentially scarring of the lungs. The fact that these conditions can take decades to show up means that they can be particularly difficult to diagnose correctly, which often leads to further complications.
What materials is asbestos found in?
Asbestos can be found in a wide range of common building materials. These include insulation, roof structures (especially in garages), floor tiles, and drainpipes, among others.
Asbestos is often relatively safe while those materials are left alone. It’s when they’re broken up or disturbed, such as during a renovation, that the material can enter into the air and get into your lungs.
It can be very difficult to assess whether a material has asbestos in it through just a visual inspection. As a result, there are now a range of providers that offer testing services. If you find that you have a material containing asbestos in your property, it’s important that you take the right steps to get it removed, likely using the assistance of a specialist removal service.
Asbestos really isn’t something to play around with. The long-term negative effects it can have on your health are very serious, but luckily, it’s easy to avoid exposure nowadays. By taking care when completing renovation projects on old buildings, and testing any materials that you suspect may be hazardous, you can almost always successfully mitigate the risk of asbestos exposure in most modern contexts.
Keeping your home in good condition is a crucial aspect of ownership that involves paying attention to every detail, including things that might easily be overlooked. Among these often-neglected items are the gutters that line the edge of your roof.
While it may seem insignificant at first glance, guttering plays a pivotal role in protecting the structural integrity of your home. Ensuring that these essential components are regularly checked and maintained can save you a significant amount of trouble and expense over time.
The role of gutters
The exterior of a property is exposed to the elements, including rainfall, which, without proper management, can lead to a plethora of structural issues. This is where guttering comes into play, preventing rainwater from the roof directly hitting walls, windows, doors, and the foundation of your house.
By effectively diverting water away, gutters maintain the soil around your house at a stable moisture level, safeguarding the foundation. Without functional gutters, a home can suffer from erosion, basement flooding, and even foundation damage.
Maintain your guttering to prevent water damage
One of the primary reasons to maintain your guttering and keep it in optimal condition is to prevent water damage. When gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, they can’t efficiently lead water away from your home. This backlog can lead to water spillover, affecting the roof, siding, and foundation. In severe cases, water infiltration can contribute to mould and mildew growth, posing health risks to the occupants.
Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance ensures that water is appropriately channeled, safeguarding your home from these potential problems.
Protect your roof
Unchecked and poorly maintained gutters can also wreak havoc on your roof. Clogs can prevent water from flowing freely, leading to water accumulation. Over time, this stagnant water can damage the roof structure, causing leaks, rot, and in extreme situations, roof collapse.
Ensuring your gutter system is free from blockages will help to prevent water buildup and could substantially prolong the lifespan of your roof.
Avoid basement flooding
Gutters play a significant role in preventing basement flooding. When they function correctly, they direct rainwater away from the foundation and the house’s perimeter. However, clogged or damaged gutters fail to divert this water adequately, allowing it to pool around the foundation and eventually seep into the basement. This can lead to a myriad of issues, including mould, structural damage, and the need for expensive waterproofing solutions.
Regular gutter maintenance can avoid these costly and stressful issues.
Enhance your home’s kerb appeal and value
Beyond the protective functionality, well-maintained gutters contribute to your home’s overall aesthetic appeal. Overflowing, sagging, or damaged gutters can be an eyesore, detracting from your home’s visual impact.
Moreover, potential homebuyers are likely to consider the condition of the gutters as a reflection of the overall maintenance and care given to the property. By keeping your gutters in top shape, you can enhance your home’s kerb appeal and potentially its market value.
Pest control
Lastly, neglected gutters can become breeding grounds for pests such as mosquitoes, mice, and birds. Standing water in blocked gutters offers an ideal habitat for mosquitoes, while debris can attract birds and rodents looking to nest. These pests can cause further damage to the gutters and potentially to other parts of your home.
Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance can prevent these issues by eliminating the conditions that attract such pests.
Conclusion
The importance of checking and maintaining your gutters cannot be overstated. They play a vital role in protecting your home from water damage, preserving the roof, preventing basement flooding, enhancing kerb appeal, and keeping pests at bay. Considering the potentially high costs of neglect, the effort and resources required to maintain your guttering are well worth it. By incorporating gutter care into your regular home maintenance schedule, you can ensure these critical components continue to function effectively, safeguarding your home for years to come.
The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the home. It might not seem so at first glance; after all, it’s not like you sleep, cook, or entertain in this space. That being said, it’s hard to live in a property without a functioning, clean, and correctly designed bathroom.
Whether your bathroom is connected to your master bedroom in the form of an en suite, or a “main” bathroom your entire family uses, it’s important to keep it in good condition.
Regular bathroom maintenance doesn’t just keep this essential room looking good, it can also prevent costly repairs. Here are three simple things you can do to ensure your bathroom stays clean, functions effectively, and is a pleasant place to spend time in.
Clean the grout regularly
It’s important to clean the grout in your bathroom regularly. Mold can easily grow here, but if the grouting is dark, it can be hard to spot.
Making sure your tiles and grout are cleaned (and reapplied if necessary) will keep the space hygienic, while also preventing the spread of mold and damp where moisture hasn’t been wiped away. This is especially true in a wet room, where the flooring, skirting and walls may be entirely comprised of tiles.
Water pressure & boiler function
A boiler needs to be carefully maintained and inspected over time. That’s not necessarily because they’re prone to breaking down (newer models are especially reliable and can last for a decade or more), but because certain issues like water pressure may require consideration.
You can also opt for a more energy-efficient boiler if you want to reduce costs on central heating. With BuyaBoiler you can pay for and install a new boiler within a few days, allowing you to resolve any issues quickly and then hardly have to worry about it again.
3d rendering of water drops on chrome metal gutter next to the laying shower head
Unclog drains
Your shower and bath drains can clog surprisingly quickly. This can happen for a whole host of reasons, especially if the whole family uses the main bathroom.
Having drain cleaner and clog remover solutions can be helpful, and regular bleaching is important too. If you have a compressed drain plug that helps the water flow correctly, that may need a clean too.
If your drains are clogging and your own efforts to clear them aren’t working, consider calling a plumber to inspect your pipes. Sometimes a compressed clog can cause a leak, and it’s best to resolve that issue before it causes costly damage.
With these tips, you can keep your bathroom in great condition without a huge amount of effort. Over time you’ll come to know your specific bathroom well and pre-empt its common issues.
If you notice a moth in your closet, you might not give it much thought. But if you spot holes in your wool garments it’s time to take action!
Realising you have a moth situation on your hands, you will probably be wondering where they came from, how to get rid of them, and how to save the rest of your clothes from their hungry caterpillar larvae. This handy guide will teach you all about controlling moth infestations in your home.
Types of moths
Before you can win the battle against moths, it helps to know your enemy. There are a few different moth species that like to take up residence in homes and wreak havoc.
Clothes moths, as their name suggests, like to munch on fabrics. The two most common species are:
Common Clothes Moth. These moths have golden brown wings and are about 1/3 inch long. The larvae are the ones that cause damage to wool, furs, carpeting, and other natural fabrics as they munch with their tiny jaws. They leave behind messy webs and dark specks of excrement known as “frass.”
Case Bearing Clothes Moth. The larvae of these moths make themselves snug little sleeping bags out of your clothes fibres. They drag these protective cases around as they feed.
Pantry moths invade your food storage areas and can contaminate dried goods with their larvae and messy webs. Watch out for:
Indian Meal Moth. Identifiable by their reddish brown wings, these moths love to eat grains, cereals, nuts, dried fruits and more. Indian meal moths lay lots of eggs that hatch into tiny wormy larvae.
Flour Moths. Flour moths, as you might have guessed, feed on flour and other baking ingredients. They leave behind webbing and excrement in infested food products.
Other household moths
White-Shouldered House Moths. These moths don’t eat fabric but instead feed on dried food sources and organic debris like lint, hair, and dust bunnies.
Now that you know your moth adversaries, let’s take a look at the tell-tale signs so you can identify infestations.
Signs of moth infestations
Make sure you keep an eye out for these common indicators that moths have invaded your home:
Your clothes and other natural fabric items will be riddled with tiny holes. Upon closer inspection, you may find larvae, specks of frass, light webbing and cocoons where moths have been breeding. Ugh! If you spot these signs, you likely have clothes moths snacking on your garments. At this point it’s time to consider expert help and professional moth treatment.
Check any dried food goods for larvae crawling around packages or containers, webbing accumulating in containers or on food, and clumps of larvae excrement. If you find contaminated foods, immediately throw them out in a sealed container so more moths aren’t attracted. Give your pantry a thorough cleaning to get rid of any eggs or larvae.
Look out also for moths flying out of vents when you turn on heating or cooling, and swarms of moths in dark, secluded house areas. Seeing large numbers of household moths usually means you need to do a thorough cleaning of potential nesting sites in your home.
Now that you know what to look for when it comes to moth invaders, time to cover why these pesky insects can be harmful. This will give you some extra motivation to get your home moth-free.
Dangers and health hazards
While moths themselves don’t directly spread disease or pose serious health threats, they can cause other issues if left unchecked.
Some people may experience allergic reactions from touching moth larvae or adults. Reactions can include rashes, hives, blisters and facial swelling. If you suffer any concerning reactions after contact with moths, talk to your doctor. They can provide medication to help manage symptoms that could impact your family.
Moth larvae can cause costly damage as they chew through wool, furs, carpeting, and other prized textiles. Pantry moths can also contaminate a shocking amount of dried goods that ultimately need to be thrown out.
The mess created by moth larvae poses a fire hazard. One study showed that just 1/10th of an ounce of frass dust can fuel a damaging fire. This is just another great reason to get infestations under control.
Hopefully now you understand why sharing your home with moths isn’t ideal, especially if you are focused on raising a healthy family. Now get into some moth control methods to moth-proof your house.
Moth prevention tips
Prevention is way better than cure when it comes to handling moth predicaments. Here’s how to proactively guard against infestations:
Clothing
Get into the habit of washing or dry cleaning wool and other natural fabric items before storing them away after wearing. The perspiration and oils on worn garments attracts moths.
Place washed items directly into airtight containers or garment bags before putting them back into your closets. This deprives moths of the chance to lay eggs on them.
Periodically take clothing out of storage to air and check for any worrisome signs like larvae or holes. Catching an infestation early makes controlling it much easier.
Repellants
Hang moth-repellent sachets containing cedar, lavender, rosemary or other herbs in your closets and storage areas. These strong fragrances naturally deter moths.
Use cedar blocks, chips or moth-repellent paper in strategic areas where clothing is stored.
Food products
Inspect packages before purchasing dried goods. Check for any webbing, larvae or eggs to make sure products aren’t pre-infested.
Place incoming high-risk products like flour, rice and bird seed into airtight glass, metal or plastic containers. This removes access to the nutrient-rich foods moths seek.
Clean up any spilled grains, cereals or baking ingredients right away – don’t give moths an open food buffet!
Take inventory of your pantry stocks and use up already opened dried goods. Moths often gain access when packages have been open for a while.
Cleaning
Use vacuum attachments to thoroughly and frequently get rid of lint, pet fur, soil and hair inside heat ducts, attics and dark sheltered locations in the home.
Check around and under appliances for forgotten pet food or accumulated organic debris. Make sure to clean everywhere including places that are often forgotten.
Wash rugs, blankets, pet bedding and other textiles prone to collecting hair or dander regularly to discourage nesting sites.
Inspect for mildew spots, moisture or leaks that can breed mould or mildew that moths enjoy snacking on.
Getting rid of an existing moth infestation
When moths have already begun breeding and feeding in your home, stronger measures will be needed to gain control. Here are some ways to tackle existing infestations:
Moth eggs and larvae cannot survive extremes of hot or cold. Washing and drying clothes or other items at the highest heat settings will kill them. For more delicate items, sealing them in bags and popping them in the freezer for a few weeks destroys all life stages.
Traps infused with moth hormones are extremely effective at capturing roving adult moths. These crafty traps lure them in but prevent escape. Use traps anywhere you have observed moths flying about. Attracting the adults prevents mating and further reproduction.
Certain plant-derived insecticidal products are approved for safe use against fabric pests like moths. These usually contain compounds found in chrysanthemums. Always carefully read and precisely follow label directions with any control products to avoid damage to your belongings and health risks. It’s a good idea to you call in an expert exterminator for the best results when using insecticides.
Preventing future infestations
Keep vigilant with these moth control methods to avoid new infestations down the line:
Continue using cedar, essential oils, pheromone traps and vacant space management. Make these moth deterrence strategies part of your regular household routine.
Periodically check clothing, carpets and stored foodstuffs for signs like larvae, nests or faecal specks. Catching an infestation in initial stages makes clearing it out much easier.
Follow sanitation advice such as strong vacuum suction of cracks and crevices, eliminating moisture problems, and removing pet hair and dander. Remember, tidy homes don’t attract moths.
Conclusion
As you’ve now learned, moths may appear harmless, but require some major pest management considerations once they start targetting your home. While moth larvae happily munch their way through clothes, carpets and foodstuffs, causing damage, allergic reactions or fire risks, control is very achievable.
Armed with knowledge of the main moth troublemakers, what attracts them and how to deter their interest, you can now stay one step ahead. Applying preventative and monitoring steps combined with timely professional extermination at the first sign of infestation will undoubtedly protect your belongings and sanity! With a little diligence, you can defend your home from moth invasion for good.
Winter can bring unique challenges and opportunities for vacation rental property managers and investors, whether you’re in the sunny climate of Orlando, Florida, or possibly somewhere wetter and colder like Seattle, Washington. If you’re looking to buy a property to turn it into a vacation rental, this comprehensive winter season VR maintenance checklist compiles insights and recommendations from seasoned professionals in the industry.
From yearly maintenance routines and safety inspections to adapting property management approaches and providing guest-centric amenities, these tips aim to ensure a delightful and hassle-free experience for guests during the winter season. Whether you’re preparing for snowstorms or optimizing heating systems, this Redfin article covers it all, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures, clear communication, and a guest-first mindset for achieving VR success in the competitive vacation rental market.
1. Have a maintenance checklist for each season
“As one of Seattle’s most successful short-term rental managers, we prepare our homes for winter and the holidays to ensure a great guest experience,” says Eva and Sid, co-founders of NICASA. “On the backend, we conduct annual maintenance, including gutter cleaning, covering outside hose bibs to prevent pipes from freezing, cleaning heater vents, and checking their functionality while preparing backups in case of any failures. We also place ice melt and shovels in homes to be ready for unexpected snowstorms — we recommend purchasing them in advance as they sell out quickly when storms occur.”
2. Get your guests tickets to local activities and events
At HomeSlice Stays, “We understand that the winter and holiday season is a special time for guests and their loved ones. We want to ensure that every moment of their stay is filled with joy, comfort, and relaxation. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and support throughout their visit. To add an extra touch of holiday cheer, we offer Christmas hot chocolate and champagne baskets as a warm welcome gesture. In addition, we offer tickets to local activities such as Enchant, Scottsdazzle, or maps for the best local holiday lights. It’s our little way of spreading joy and making your vacation feel special.”
“As a traveler and vacation home manager, we take safety extremely seriously,” says Caleb Hannon, COO of StayLakeNorman. “That’s why we use the winter time to do a robust safety inspection of all of our properties and luxury homes, from checking outdoor lighting, to testing smoke detectors, and all the way to cleaning out dryer vent systems. We conduct several preventive maintenance checks throughout the year, with the most extensive one just before winter to ensure our properties provide the best possible stay for our guests. Continuous preventative maintenance and safety inspections are key to ensuring vacation rental properties are ready for anything or anyone.”
“Here in Northern New England, we are lucky to have a slowdown in rentals between the foliage season and the busy holiday seasons, which allows us to fully prepare for winter,” mentions Bretton Woods Vacations. “Our climate is harsh in New Hampshire. I have personally seen temperatures as low as -35F. While rare, those temperatures bring on a suite of potential problems, from frozen pipes to dead car batteries. For those reasons, we change our cleaning protocols to ensure that thermostats are set no lower than 60F, and that sink base cabinet doors are left open to allow better air circulation. Our maintenance team also has jumper cables so that they can promptly intervene to help a guest in case of a vehicle that won’t start in the cold weather.”
5. Provide clear communication, instructions, and regular updates
“In my extensive experience with vacation rental management, specializing in Airbnb and VRBO, I’ve learned that guest reviews and safety heavily influence success,” suggests 5 Star STR.“Clear communication is another key aspect. In my short-term rental management approach, I make it a point to ensure our guests receive a digital guest book providing clear operating instructions on heating equipment and readily available emergency contact information. Our secret to 5-star reviews is our proactive communication and property DNA. We respond to guests within five minutes, 24/7, and deal head-on with any situation.”
“Taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of germs and allergens ensures a happy and healthy holiday for everyone – including your next guests,” recommends Justin Ford, Director of STR Safety at Breezeway. “Install new filters for all forced-air heating systems. These filters will capture airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and even viruses, preventing them from circulating throughout the property. Hosts should also consider adding air purifiers with filters to common areas. These will silently remove allergens, viruses, and bacteria from the air, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for guests.”
7. Invest in comfort, technology, and guest feedback
Sophari says, “Our property management approach in Seattle revolves around creating a truly memorable experience for our guests during the winter season. Here’s how we blend these elements to make our vacation rentals special during the winter:
Temperature control and enhanced monitoring: We prioritize guest comfort by utilizing Nest devices to maintain a warm property during the coldest winter nights. Proactive measures, such as preheating vacant units before arrivals, ensure a cozy and welcoming environment from the moment guests step in.
Smart Locks and battery monitoring: We guarantee a hassle-free experience with SmartThings technology, connecting with Yale Smart Locks through our property management software. This system monitors smart lock battery levels to prevent lockouts and unauthorized access, ensuring a smooth check-in and restricting access only to valid reservation dates.
Guest feedback and continuous improvement: To consistently exceed guest expectations, we personally stay in our units annually or invite close friends and family for feedback. Aggregating this input, along with guest reviews, allows us to identify areas for improvement and enhance the overall guest experience.”
8. Be ready when unexpected weather arises
Brigadoon Vacation Rentals suggests that “Sometimes, guests’ plans for hiking, biking, or kayaking can be waylaid by rainstorms or occasional snowfall. Here are some tips to help prepare your vacation rental space for the winter season:
Soft furnishings: Warm blankets, plush throws, and cushions create a cozy atmosphere.
Rugs: Decorative rugs add warmth to hard floors.
Lighting: Battery-operated candles (for safety), fairy lights, or warm-toned lamps create a soft and inviting ambiance.
Seasonal: Rotate winter-themed decor.
Curtains: Consider heavy curtains for windows to help trap heat inside.
Heating: Turn the heat to 55 when vacant, but turn it up before check-in. Leave a few instant logs for the fireplace.
Winter reading: Create a cozy area with a comfortable chair, task lighting, and a selection of books.
Movies: The TV room should have plenty of blankets and pillows.
Games: Keep a collection of family-friendly board games.”
iTrip Los Angeles recommends, “Clean your rental from top to bottom, including ceilings, stairwells, baseboards, closets, and all the nooks and crannies. This will help with general upkeep and also help you identify opportunities for improvement. For example, you may notice while cleaning your window sills that they could use another layer of caulking. Or that your outdoor faucets still need to be winterized. You should also replace the batteries in your smoke detectors, inspect your furnace and space heaters, and change HVAC filters. Lastly, clean out the fireplace (including gas fireplaces) and test them out to make sure they’re working properly.”
10. Adapt property management to the winter and holiday season
Phillip Costa, co-founder of Desired Stays recommends, “Adapt your property management approach to the winter and holiday season. Increase the frequency of property inspections, focusing on heating systems to ensure functionality. Adjust cleaning routines to address mud and snow, maintaining a clean and welcoming environment. Enhance guest support with quick responses to inquiries and a detailed guide on winter activities and local holiday events, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Schedule maintenance for heating systems to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Provide straightforward instructions for operating heating equipment, thermostats, and other appliances. Ensure a reliable Wi-Fi network and trouble-free smart home devices, offering a seamless and comfortable technological experience for your guests.”
11. Provide entertainment options for both indoor and outdoor
Zach Vavak, owner of Grand Welcome Lake of the Ozarkssays, “Fire pits are popular during the winter. Here at the lake, it’s a perfect spot to relax around a warm outdoor fire. We recommend getting comfortable chairs made from water-resistant materials. Indoor entertainment and outdoor experiences and activities at the lake are plentiful. If you opt for a cozy cabin or condo stay, provide indoor board games and TV streaming services. Meal delivery should also be available. If your guests decide to venture out, let your guests know the town offers a variety of options, like ice skating, Christmas light villages, indoor play areas, trampoline parks, indoor pools, and much more.”
“Hot tubs, saunas, and Jacuzzis are fantastic for keeping winter guests happy,” recommends Lucas Knowles, owner of Grand Welcome Southern Coastal Maine. “But better winter comfort doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Adding extra blankets and boot warmers provides a cozy touch, while a well-stocked kitchen with wine glasses, a bottle opener, and hot cocoa can really elevate the experience. Proper cookware, mixing bowls, and a can opener are all easily forgotten items that guests will be relieved to find in the home, saving them an emergency trip to the store.”
13. Weather proof your rental, even in warmer climates
Ian Vogt, manager of Grand Welcome Destin & Miramar Beach mentions, “In Florida’s winter season, though lacking snow, essential tasks beckon attention. Key among them is weatherproofing—sealing windows and doors, inspecting the roof and gutters, and engaging professionals for HVAC system checks. Pool owners should adapt cleaning routines for cooler temperatures and activate heating for a delightful experience. Indoors, create a cozy ambiance with plush blankets in each bedroom, stock the kitchen with holiday cooking essentials, and consider adorning the vacation rental with enchanting holiday decorations for an extra touch of magic, consistently charming guests.”
14. Avoid technical difficulties using easy alternatives
Jay Breitlow, owner of Grand Welcome of Greater Orlando says, “We live in Florida so our challenges are unique to guests who stay in our homes but the most common issues we have are really quite simple. The first issue we run into is switching our thermostats from cooling mode into heating mode. It’s super easy when you know your thermostat but guests somehow always seem to have an issue. We highly recommend recording a video and saving to YouTube and then printing off a QR code for them to scan with the basics of how to use the thermostat.”
15. Prepare your water lines
Niyi Olumide, owner of Grand Welcome Houston recommends, “Opening faucets and dripping or draining water lines helps to avoid water getting stuck and freezing inside the pipes. Insulating our pipes with insulating tape or foam – padding sleeves is really important. We apply foam-padding sleeves to the outside of the pipes, which will help keep them warm and the insulating tape will also keep pipes warm, but will keep water out, as well.”
16. Focus on maintenance, cleaning, and energy efficiency during the winter
Owner of Grand Welcome Franklin, Josh Smith mentions, “Here are some notable changes in how we handle maintenance, cleaning, energy efficiency as well as guest support during the winter/holiday season.
Maintenance: schedule professional HVAC inspections leading into winter as well as into summer (Bi annual visits) to help mitigate any potential system issues.
Cleaning: If applicable, fireplace/chimney as well as outside gutters and downspouts cleaned.
Energy efficiency: programmable thermostats for interior HVAC is a huge efficiency saver. During the winter season, we set thermostats to 65F when vacant and 70F prior to guest arrival.
17. In-unit amenities and comfy furniture
“The key considerations for guest satisfaction revolve around comfort, quality, and attention to detail,” recommends Taylor Porter, Owner of Grand Welcome Hilton Head Island. “Comfortable furnishings such as mattresses, plush sofas, and ample cushions contribute to a relaxing and cozy atmosphere. Quality entertainment, kitchenware, and in-unit amenities, like a washer and dryer, add value and convenience to the guest experience.”
18. Create a grand experience outdoors and indoors
Lucas Ha from Sweet Vacation Rental says, “We’re prepping our Orlando and Tampa homes for a cozy winter. Picture fairy lights on palm trees without icy sidewalks. We clear walkways, trim fronds, and swap patio furniture for sturdy pieces with plush throws. Our fireplaces get professionally checked, and we add LED lights for festive cheer.
Indoors, we welcome guests with garlands, beach reads, and board games. The kitchen has spices for cocoa and baking. Bathrooms get spa vibes with fluffy towels and scented soaps. We test everything, from pool heaters to tech, and our guest book has local info. We update guests on weather and provide emergency contacts. Before arrival, our cleaning team works their magic, ensuring a sparkling space. We restock pool floats, sunscreen, and leave a welcome basket with fresh oranges and local honey.”
19. Require guests to also come prepared
“We manage properties in Northern Utah’s Wasatch Back and require our guests to have a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle to access their ‘home away from home’ during the winter,” says Mountain Luxury Real Estate. “Too often, our guests get stuck or are unable to drive safely from the airport due to intense winter weather. Of course, there are a few guests who visit during a dry spell and complain that they didn’t need 4-wheel or all-wheel drive; however, we prefer those complaints over ones like, ‘I slid off the road. Please refund me.”
“Our holiday season mantra is all about preemptive cheer and flawless experiences,” shares WISH Short Term Rental. “As winter settles in, our focus is on perfecting every detail for a seamless and cozy guest experience. We prioritize hassle-free access with smart lock systems, align pricing with festive market trends, and conduct comprehensive preventative maintenance, addressing heating systems and insulation. Our goal is to provide a welcoming and warm haven for guests, allowing them to fully enjoy their stay without worrying about anything other than packing in as much holiday fun as possible.”
21. Think gift baskets and coziness
“We’ve found that creating a warm and cozy environment is essential to providing an ideal winter getaway,” mentions Stay & Sea. “Little touches go a long way, we like to leave seasonal treats in our gift baskets for guests to enjoy. Supplying soft throw blankets and plush robes is a great way to help guests relax and feel at home. Many of our rentals offer fireplaces, saunas, and hot tubs. We can’t think of a better way to stay warm and toasty during the chilly winter months.”
“In colder months, offering a heated pool not only fulfills guests’ desires but also enhances your property’s market value. The ability to upcharge for extra electricity usage during cooler stays offsets the cost of pool heater installation, turning it into a lucrative opportunity. Market insights in Myrtle Beach, SC, show that properties with pool heaters experience a 10% increase in rental rates and a 35% boost in occupancy. It’s not just about having a pool; it’s about transforming your investment into a year-round retreat that attracts and rewards guests in all seasons.”
23. Create long term partnerships with local professionals
“A few simple practices can help you navigate the surprises the winter months bring in vacation rentals,” says Jessica from Hudson Valley Short Rental Management. “We like to stay proactive and pivot when we need to. Keeping a team of professionals on speed dial is essential. Check in with your plumber, electrician, and HVAC partners before the cold weather hits, and be sure to choose reliable professionals that answer emergencies and work weekends.”
24. Find a snow removal company that’s available 24/7
“As the winter season approaches in Colorado, one crucial tip for hosts that surprisingly gets overlooked is to have a reliable snow removal solution in place for your vacation rental,” recommends Highline Management. “There is nothing worse than experiencing an unreliable service that doesn’t come out during one of the biggest snowfalls, resulting in leaving your guests snowed in.
Given Colorado’s unpredictable weather, the key to a seamless stay lies in sourcing a reliable snow plow or shovel service in place from October through May. Make sure your service provider comes out to shovel and ice after the first inch of snowfall. We do see a lot of travelers coming from the warmer states that appreciate this precaution ensuring that their family is safe and taken care of during their stays.”
25. Provide back up plans for your guests
“As a professional short-term rental manager, we strive to create a cozy and welcoming environment for guests,” says Karen Hunt, Owner of iTrip Seattle. “We have a local inspector who personally checks each home and turns up the heat before guests arrive. During slick conditions and snowy weather, we send direct messages to our guests with alternative driving routes because Seattle has some steep roads. Our goal is to not only provide great vacation rental accommodations, but also help travelers have a five-star experience each time they visit.”
26. Provide exceptional customer service and frequent check-ins
“We’re in Scottsdale, AZ, so no snow, but plenty of snowbirds looking for some golf and sun,” says GemHaus. “Winter’s our peak season, and that means a lot more guests soaking up the desert vibes. The only hiccup? Our pools can get a bit chilly during the winter. We’re on it, though— helping guests figure out those pool heaters is like our winter sport. At GemHaus, we’re all about more check-ins, extra guest love, and making sure everyone gets a sunny winter getaway they’ll remember.”
27. Have the basic essentials ready for travelers
“One of the significant gestures we extend to all our guests is a welcome basket containing water, snacks, oatmeal, Skittles, and popcorn,” suggests Book It Vacation Rentals. “The Skittles are more of an inside treat for Seattle Seahawk fans. Additionally, we provide an excellent box that equips travelers with all their essential travel needs: a shaver, shaving cream, toothbrush, toothpaste, sewing kit, shoe polish, toothpicks, mini tissues, comb, and sleep spray.”
28. Complete inspections before and after arrival
“We conduct thorough routine house inspections on all our rental properties before guests arrive to ensure they are clean and ready for occupancy,” suggests West Lake Properties. “We provide all the necessary supplies to make our guest’s stay comfortable, including turning on lights both inside and outside, adjusting the heating as needed, and if necessary, clearing snow from the walkway to the front door.
Additionally, our post-stay inspections ensure that homeowners can rest easy, knowing that their property is well taken care of. We make sure the house is damage-free then we secure the place by locking all windows and doors, turning the heat back to an acceptable temperature, and ensuring that all lights are off.”
29. Provide guests with snow essentials for their cars
Picture Properties Vacation Rentals says, “If your rental is in an area where it tends to snow, make sure you have someone nearby and available to plow your driveway. Have a snow shovel, windshield scraper, and ice melt granules readily available for your guests to use during their stay. Another helpful tip is to make sure your housekeeper keeps the heat at 55 degrees Fahrenheit when they leave after each cleaning in order to guarantee your pipes don’t freeze. Even better, install a smart wi-fi thermostat so you can set the temperature remotely with your phone. Not only will you save your pipes and your heat bill, you can turn the heat on in the house before your guests arrive so they are cozy and warm from the start of their vacation.”
30. Decorate for the holiday season
DoCo Vacations mentions, “Our approach to preparing our vacation rentals is centered around thoughtfully curated holiday decorations that align with the unique vibe of each rental property. Recognizing the significance of festive decor such as Christmas trees and making holiday plans. We ensure each unit is adorned in a way that not only resonates with its individual character but also sparks joy and a sense of holiday spirit among our guests, often leading to shareable moments for our guests through their social media profiles. This makes content for us to use in our own social media marketing.”
31. Add detail oriented comfort and a insightful welcome booklet
David and Lori Raun from Shasta Lakeshore Retreat says, “At our lake retreat, we focus on ensuring a comfortable and memorable winter experience for families in our ten vacation rental homes. We provide extra blankets for added comfort and meticulously inspect wood fireplaces, supplying ample dry oak for warmth. Outdoors, a firepit with a heat lamp encourages cozy gatherings. For group retreats, we offer board and dice games for serene winter evenings. Our gift basket includes rich hot chocolate, and our welcome materials detail ideal winter activities in the area to help guests make the most of their getaway. Our welcome book and website detail ideal winter activities in the area, ensuring guests make the most of their getaway.”
32. Prioritize group oriented configurations and comfort
Linda Ross from Stay WildFlower says “At Stay Wildflower, we meticulously prepare our vacation rental homes for the season, focusing on creating a festive atmosphere that caters to our guests’ unique desires. We prioritize practical winter comfort by ensuring essential amenities are in place, such as stocked Nespresso machines and well-prepped fireplaces and fire pits for chilly nights. To enhance togetherness during the holidays, we enable groups to book configurations that allow everyone to stay together under one roof. Our commitment to guest satisfaction includes immediate and responsive support, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable winter stay in the heart of Los Angeles.”
Founder of Leasey.A, Juan Leal, says “From guest communication to maintenance challenges; technical difficulties can disrupt your business at any moment. These problems become especially difficult when hosting guests for the holidays.
If I could offer one piece of advice to property managers and rental investors, it would be to embrace new technology. Leveraging the power of an AI troubleshooting chat means you can offer support for your guests 24/7, even if your team is taking time off for the holidays. Using smart IoT devices to automate home amenities when the suite is vacant can dramatically reduce your operating costs during the winter months. IoT sensors can also help your team monitor the suite to detect potential issues like frozen pipes before they become major issues. In all, embracing new technology can lead to better guest experiences and fewer technical difficulties during the busy holiday season.”
34. Tricks to make the cold bearable for a more comfortable stay
Matt Floyd, Owner of Stay Classy Homes mentions, “As someone who grew up in Wisconsin and manages vacation rentals all around the country, here are a few recommendations as we head into the winter season:
Keep your guests cozy by providing hot chocolate packets and investing in boot warmers for toasty gear the next morning.
If you have a fireplace, consider partnering with a local firewood company for a discounted delivery. Stock extra fleece blankets for added warmth.
Prioritize guest safety by ensuring someone regularly shovels and salts pathways to prevent injuries.
Enhance energy efficiency with a smart thermostat, allowing remote temperature control to avoid high heating costs when the home is unoccupied.
35. Safety comes first
“As winter approaches, safety and comfort take center stage in our vacation rentals,” mentions WC Lodging. “We meticulously inspect properties, ensuring well-lit walkways and proactive measures against leaks. Our homes are equipped with safety essentials like handrails, emergency supplies, and functional heating systems.
Additionally, each Sonoma County house provides emergency contacts, including landline telephones, NOAA radios, and flashlights. In addition to clear safety instructions for rainy weather and heating appliances, our homes come equipped with extra blankets, pillows, puzzles, and games for an added touch of comfort and security during the winter season.”
“Being in close proximity to a ski area with colder temperatures, winter home preparation for incoming guests is paramount to our continued success,” says Mt. Baker Lodging. “Nothing is worse for guests than showing up to a dark, cold, and inadequately marked vacation home. With darkness upon us as early as 4:00PM, it’s important to be mindful that guests who are unfamiliar with the area need to be able to find their cabin or condo with a minimum of difficulty.
Once there, they need to be able to clearly see their way in while carrying their luggage, food, and personal items. Once inside, it’s always nice to be greeted by a warmed-up property. It’s worth taking the time to perform a walk-through on the day of guest arrival to make sure that all systems are in good working order, outside lights are on, and the heat is turned up. Technology is great, but nothing takes the place of seeing things with your own eyes. It’s the little details that create a great first impression, and keep our guests coming back year after year.”
37. Emphasis on prevention
“Winter is the time we conduct the majority of our preventive maintenance items on our properties,” says Manager Phil Caudle fromGrand Welcome Newport Beach “This includes swapping fresh batteries in our electronic door locks, smoke detectors, tv remotes controls and garage openers. Exterior home and patio lights are checked. Parasols and umbrellas are tied down or removed. This is also a good time to check the wear and tear on patio furniture as well and order new covers before the rains arrive.”
Weatherproofing your home is something you may not to give much thought to, apart from ensuring that there are no holes in the roof, but it’s really important. The better your home can withstand the weather, the longer its lifespan will be without costly repairs. It will be a more comfortable place to live too.
Let’s take a look at a few things you can do to weatherproof your home – inside and out – right now.
1. Aluminium doors: sleek and effective
Let’s start with your front line of defence: doors. Aluminium doors aren’t just sleek and modern; they’re like the knights in shining armour of weatherproofing. They resist corrosion, laugh in the face of harsh weather, and won’t swell up like a sponge in a rainstorm. Plus, they can be energy efficient, keeping the heat in and the cold out, or vice versa if we get a hot summer.
2. Draught excluders: wind whisperers
Draught excluders might not be the most glamorous solution, but they’re the unsung heroes in the war against weather. They’re a low-cost way to keep cold air out and warm air in. You can even get creative and DIY these for a personal touch.
3. Insulation: not just for the loft
When we think insulation, we often look upwards to the loft. But what about your walls? Adding insulation to cavity walls can be a game-changer. It’s like wrapping your home in a giant thermal blanket. As well as keeping things cosy, you’ll save on energy bills too.
4. Double glazing: your window to a warmer world
If your windows are single-glazed, it’s time to join the double glazing club. Double-glazed windows reduce heat loss, keeping your house snug. They also help with noise reduction, which is a godsend if you live next to a busy road.
5. Gutter cleaning: underrated maintenance
Cleaning your gutters is about as exciting as watching paint dry, but it’s still worth doing. Blocked gutters can lead to expensive water damage. It’s a messy job, but seeing this chore as an easy way to prevent a major issue can be a great motivator.
6. Roof check: no leaky surprises
Get your roof checked regularly. Missing tiles or shingles are like open invitations for water damage. It’s a bit like checking your car’s oil; ignore it, and you could be in for a costly repair.
7. Seal the deal: caulk is your friend
Check the caulking around your windows and doors. Over time it can crack and shrink, which means it’s less effective. A quick re-caulk can make a big difference when it comes to weatherproofing your home.
If you do all of the above, then you will have the basics of a safe, warm, and weatherproof home. Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than cure when it comes to home maintenance.
I don’t expect real estate prices to rise at the same 6.75% rate we have seen over the past 10 years, so instead, let’s say prices rise at 4% per year. Some people may think that number is high, while others may think it is low. But if you look back at U.S. residential real estate appreciation since 1890, which looks to be similar here in Canada, prices have only risen by a bit more than the rate of inflation, so even 4% may be generous. Nevertheless, assuming 4% growth is correct, the condo would be worth $740,122 after 10 years. Home equity, representing the condo’s value minus the mortgage balance, would be $471,613.
What if someone could rent the same $500,000 condo for $2,000 per month (a number that might seem high or low depending on where you live)? Compared to making monthly mortgage payments on that same property, the renter would be saving $559 per month. Their rent would rise over time, say, at 2% per year, so the $599 per month of savings would decrease over time.
Now, let’s say they invested their initial $100,000 (the amount that would have been used on a down payment) and $559 a month (a number that would decrease as rent increased) into a tax-free savings account (TFSA). If they earned 4% per year on their investment, they would have $204,396 after 10 years. The buyer, with $471,613 of home equity, is clearly better off than the renter, right?
The problem here is you cannot just compare the mortgage payment to the monthly rent. Owning has other incremental costs that might include:
Property tax: $200 monthly (not ap Condo insurance: $10 or more per month, compared to tenant insurance Condo fees or repairs: $500 more per month, compared to renting
Property tax rates can vary significantly depending on where you live. And condo fees and repairs can vary, depending on the age and amenities in the building. But if we added another $710 per month from the categories above to the renter’s monthly investment deposits, the renter would have $319,117 accumulated after 10 years. The same tax-free TFSA return of 4% is assumed, perhaps in their spouse’s TFSA.
The owner would still have 471,613 in home equity. So, owning is still better than renting, right?
Let’s not forget there are costs to buy and sell real estate. It could cost $10,000 in land transfer tax, legal fees and other costs to buy, and another $40,000 to sell after 10 years. If the renter added these amounts to their investments, they would be at $373,919. The buyer is still ahead of the renter with $471,613, but as you can see, the gap is closer.
Electricity and hydro savings tip: Are the lights on?
You already turn off the lights when you leave a room or turn down the thermostat at night, right? In addition to that, Barry Walker, residential business development manager for efficiencyns.ca, says to check lightbulb packaging for LED wattage: “For example, it may read seven watts LED and say it’s equivalent to 60 watts of an incandescent light. So you’re only using a fraction of the energy to get the same amount of light.” He says that can save you 25% of the cost of lighting on your electricity bill.
Other cheap and cheerful ways to save on lighting and other energy costs: Buy motion sensors, smart power bars and electrical timers. “These are small things, but they’re inexpensive and they will pay for themselves very, very quickly.”
Electricity and hydro savings tip: Consider a heat pump
The biggest cost on Candians’ electricity bills is home heating, and heat pumps are becoming popular among Canadians because of government incentives to help with the costs. Walker installed a heat pump 20 years ago to replace his oil and electric heating in his 60-plus-year-old home in Halifax. “I’m a good old Scotsman and I kept every bill—my total energy costs dropped 40%,” he says. “I use thermal storage for my backup, and that heat pump is paying for itself three-fold now.”
Water savings tip: Get efficient
Plus, the heat pump can help save on the second biggest cost on your electricity: hot water. “Your payback will depend largely on the volume of hot water your household uses,” Walker says. “If you’ve got teenagers taking three showers a day, then the payback on that heat pump hot water tank will be fairly quick.” If a heat pump is too big of a commitment, you can opt for a more energy efficient hot water heater (even if you rent yours), says Walker.
Also, use cold water detergent to wash clothes and check for leaky taps. If you pay for municipal water, where you pay based on how much you use, that could be a sinkful of money a day going down the drain, he says.
How to save on internet and cable bills: Renegotiate service agreements
Renegotiate or bundle internet and cable services, and examine your home insurance and auto insurance, suggests Scorgie. Also talk about usage, too. You might be in the wrong plan, as things have changed since 2020, and you might not need as much as you did during the lockdowns. Keehn says: “That’s hundreds of dollars a year. People may say, ‘But I’m going to have to sit on hold with the phone company for hours.’ Maybe you will, but just sit on hold while you’re watching Netflix,” she suggests. (Speaking of Netflix, here are the best streaming services in Canada.)
How to save on cell phone bills: Check your bill and cut what you don’t need
Check your phone bill: Has a signup bonus promotion expired because you forgot to renew it, resulting in higher fees? Are you paying for directory listings you don’t use? Those charges add up, notes Keehn. Also, look into family plans and getting rid of services you don’t use, like international calls for example. Also, in your settings, check for the apps that are running in the background, which can eat up a ton of data unknowingly when you’re out and about not connected to wifi.
How to save on car expenses and maintenance
We don’t need to tell you that owning a vehicle is expensive. There’s maintenance, gas and more.
Your fuse box is the control centre of your household’s power supply, which consists of various circuit breakers and fuses. Your fuse box can be used to control how and when electricity is distributed throughout your home, and plays a vital role in the safety of your property.
As such an important piece of technology in your home, it’s crucial that you know when and how to replace your fuse box.
When to replace your fuse box
If you have an old fuse box, it may or may not be time to have it replaced. While an old fuse box may be outdated when compared with the latest standards, this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to have it fully replaced.
A qualified electrician must perform the tests needed (in relation to British Safety Standards) to verify whether it’s time to replace your fuse box.
With all that said, here are some scenarios in which it may be time to have your fuse box replaced by a professional:
It’s time to have your fuse box replaced if it is too outdated to meet modern safety standards.
You need to have your fuse box replaced if it is unsafe (for example, it has been worn down, a component is broken, or your fuse box and earthing to gas and water are not sufficiently safe).
A qualified electrician recommends you get a new fuse box (perhaps because they are concerned it will become unsafe in the near-to-medium future).
You simply want to opt for a safer, modern fuse box. Among the upsides of modern fuse boxes is the inclusion of an RCD or RCBOs. These can serve the purpose of protecting you and other members of your household from electric shocks, as well as other fault issues that can arise. While older units will only trip when they experience an overload, an RCD or RCBOs can offer further protection in a way that isn’t available with older units. Ultimately, RCDs and RCBOs can trip in cases of non-overload fault scenarios, offering extra safety.
How to get a new fuse box
An electrician will be needed to verify the safety status before replacing your fuse box, or moving its location.
Consulting with your electrician and electricity supplier
If you want to replace or move your fuse box location, you must let your electric supplier know in advance and time things in such a way that they can turn off the power (if your supplier and the electrician decides it’s necessary) to your home.
It’s likely this will be required before the work gets underway and until the fuse box has been replaced or moved.
In either case, the fuse box must be fully fitted and good to go per the electrician’s verification before the power is safe to be turned back on. Again, what the supplier and electrician will recommend and require for this work could vary depending on the nature of the job and the fuse box in question.
You must hire a professional
As we’ve already mentioned, you must hire a qualified electrician for replacing a fuse box. This is not a DIY-friendly task. Attempting such work by yourself could prove fatal.
Once you’ve found the right person for the job, they’ll need to perform various electrical tests before they can move on to actually replacing your fuse box.
If you’re not sure whether a new fuse box is required or even recommended, or if you have any other additional questions, be sure to consult with your electrician. They’ll be able to advise and help ensure you make the right calls to keep members of your household safe from electric hazards.
Finding the right person for the job
When it comes to hiring a qualified electrician, you may want to secure quotes from three or more electricians in your area. You can then compare their quotes and other aspects (such as online ratings or reviews) before deciding who to hire.
Final thoughts
To sum up, it’s essential that you have your fuse box replaced if it’s becoming worn and posing a safety risk.
Also, even just the fact that older units lack the same levels of safety as modern units is arguably reason enough to replace your old fuse box as soon as you can.
You must hire a qualified electrician to first perform various tests to check the status of your fuse box, and then carry out the work of replacing or moving it.
As a homeowner, your curb appeal is important for several reasons. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate pride of ownership, contribute to the home’s appreciation, create a first impression for buyers, and help to maintain the overall home values in your neighborhood.
And a recent report by Nextdoor and Thumbtack found that curb appeal also affects the neighborhood and neighborly relationships. There are projects that can boost your home’s curb appeal; however, the report also found that neighbors have pretty specific complaints regarding bad curb appeal as well.
“There are more than 305,000 neighborhoods on Nextdoor and each neighborhood exudes its unique charm and character, making the perception of curb appeal a subjective experience,” explains Caty Kobe, head of community at Nextdoor.
So, what could seem out of place in one neighborhood could be charming in another. “Embracing the distinctiveness of each community is essential in appreciating the diverse tapestry of curb appeal across different neighborhoods,” she says.
However, bad curb appeal can negatively affect both potential buyers and neighbors.
“Generally speaking, when people are choosing a neighborhood, they want to know that their future neighbors care for their homes as much as the buyers will care for the home they plan to purchase,” says Bret Ceren, associate broker at Platinum Living Realty in Scottsdale, AZ.
New buyers purchasing in an area want to feel that they belong and will fit into the community. “Since homes are a reflection of our lifestyle – what we currently have or what we want – then feeling like we belong is usually a priority,” Ceren explains. And if property owners do not care enough for their own home to maintain it properly, he says it’s a good chance that they won’t be concerned about what happens in the neighborhood, either.
“This can lead to an uneasiness about future circumstances that could escalate into needing to move to a different community, which is a costly chore – as such, whether true or not, potential buyers heavily evaluate a home not only on its own curb appeal, but also by that of the area neighbors.”
And existing neighbors tend to have strong feelings as well when someone is engaging in bad curb appeal.
In fact, the Nextdoor/Thumbtack survey respondents agreed that these were the biggest curb appeal faux pas.
Trash in the Yard (81%)
The most egregious curb appeal faux pas, listed by 81% of respondents, was trash in the yard.
Ceren considers this an inexcusable offense. “We live in a first-world country with weekly trash service in the vast majority of municipalities,” he says. “Not only is it unsightly, but a health risk, and attracts unwelcome visitors, both insects and animals.”
Ceren’s view is shared by Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal in Nashville, TN, who tells us, “A yard cluttered with trash is not just visually unappealing, it can contribute to pest issues, as many types of refuse provide ideal breeding grounds for insects or can attract rodents.”
And that’s not all – it can actually be harmful to the environment and local wildlife, according to Caballero, who is a landscape expert. “Discarded items can leach harmful substances into the soil, contaminate groundwater, and pose hazards to animals.”
However, homeowners may have differing views regarding what’s considered trash. Hopefully, everyone is in agreement that household waste should be placed into a trash bag, and then a trash can – but that’s not the only definition of this term. “Trash could be a tired old swing set, old toys, clutter around the yard, a broken mailbox, or old faded house numbers,” says Michael Crisp, real estate agent for The Keyes Company in Coral Springs, FL. “Or, it could be lawn equipment, unrolled garden hoses, stacked items, old pavers on the side of the home, or just abused and tattered patio furniture.”
Overgrown Landscaping (81%)
Trash in the yard is actually tied for first place with overgrown landscaping (81%) as the worst curb appeal faux pax. According to Crisp, it’s important to cut back hedges and trim trees that may hide the home and make it feel old and dated. “Cutting and trimming can make the home and yard feel larger and more open, which in turn makes the property feel full of life – and this resonates with both neighbors and potential buyers.”
Overgrown Lawn (77%)
Survey respondents also listed an overgrown lawn (77%) as a serious curb appeal problem. “Not only is this unsightly, but it is a waste of precious resources,” explains Ceren. “Taller grass requires more water, or only those areas around the sprinklers will grow, depriving the rest of the lawn of the water it needs to be healthy, which may require future reseeding to make it grow again.”
Also, overgrown lawns (and landscapes as well) can host pests and diseases. “Thick, uncontrolled vegetation provides perfect hiding and breeding places for insects, rodents, and other pests,” Caballero says. “Overgrown plants are also more prone to disease, as the lack of airflow can create a damp environment that many plant diseases thrive in.”
Parking Old Cars, RVs, Vans, or Boats Out Front (64%)
Another major curb appeal issue, listed by 64% of respondents, is parking old motor vehicles in front of a home. “Repairing vehicles is as much an American pastime as baseball, so the desire to do so is respected by many,” says Ceren. And he understands that some projects may be delayed or forgotten. “The problem is that the materials for these projects take up a lot more space than just a workbench in a garage.”
And he notes that it’s one thing to park old vehicles behind a backyard fence, but says it’s another thing entirely to let them spill out into the front yard. “And, they can also attract reptiles, rodents and other vermin to live in them, creating another safety hazard.” And in addition to being unsightly, Caballero notes that unused vehicles can leak oils and other fluids, which can seep into the ground.
“It may be worth your while to speak to a storage facility or yard to store old vehicles there,” Crisp recommends. “It is a huge distraction from the property when they are a major barrier just taking up space.”
Poorly Maintained Fences and Exterior (58%)
Next on the list, 58% of survey respondents were turned off by poorly maintained fences and exteriors. Ceren says deferred maintenance is a red flag to potential buyers, and it doesn’t sit well with neighbors, either. However, it’s more than just an eyesore. “Over time, issues like rot, rust, and general wear and tear can compromise structural integrity, potentially leading to safety issues,” Caballero explains. And the damage can escalate over time if not addressed, and may result in more costly repairs in the future.
Depending on the type of fence, Crisp recommends pressure washing it, as well as the driveways and sidewalks. “And many items such as fences can be changed drastically with a little paint or spray-on stain that will add a warm pop of color,” he says.
Home’s Exterior Needing a Wash or Paint Job (57%)
The last major bad curb appeal issue was a home’s exterior in need of being power-washed or painted (57%). Ceren says this is another example of deferred maintenance that could be a red flag to potential buyers. And it can also be frustrating to neighbors trying to maintain their own home’s property value.
Nicholas Oliver, principal broker at HomeDax Real Estate in New York, NY, says this is even a problem with the townhouses that he is involved in selling, buying, and renting. “Townhouse sellers often overlook the need for facade cleaning prior to listing, as pigeon poop is a recurring problem (birds often perch on window ledges or cornices of townhouses),” he says. “The accumulation of bird droppings and feathers not only makes the townhouse look neglected, but also reduces natural light.”
And since most NYC townhouses aren’t particularly bright to begin with, Oliver says any reduction in lighting can deter buyers – especially those transitioning from apartments. “Façade cleaning is particularly important for narrower townhouses, which in NYC is anything less than 18′ wide.”
And beyond aesthetics, Caballero says, “An unclean or poorly painted home exterior can have implications beyond aesthetics, since mold, mildew, and dirt can accumulate over time, and cause damage to the home’s exterior surfaces if not cleaned regularly. On the other hand, he says a good paint job acts as a first line of defense against weather, insects, and other potential damage to the home’s exterior.
Extenuating Circumstances
Bad curb appeal is a turnoff to both potential buyers and neighbors. However, as it relates to the latter, Kobe warns against being judgmental or jumping to conclusions. “While curb appeal can undoubtedly enhance the aesthetic allure of a community, it’s important to recognize that every neighbor’s circumstance is different and external appearances seldom reveal the true depth of someone’s character.”
For example, she says a neighbor’s lawn may be overgrown because they’ve been facing health challenges and are not currently able to address their front yard. Or a neighbor may have lost their job and doesn’t have the funds to move an old vehicle or repair their fence. “If someone’s aesthetic doesn’t match yours, it could be a great opportunity to lean in and learn more about your neighbor,” she concludes.
Some costs are unavoidable, but others can be reduced with a little effort.
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A recent analysis reveals that homeowners pay nearly $15,000 a year in hidden costs. We’ve already covered why monthly mortgage payments are higher than anticipated because of such factors as property taxes, insurance, and issues revealed during the underwriting process.
However, a new study by Zillow and Thumbtack reveals that utility payments and essential home maintenance projects are other hidden costs. And homeowners can expect to pay $14,155 a year, or $1,180 a month in hidden costs related to owning a home.
This amount skyrockets to $22,000 a year in San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles. At the other end of the spectrum, Las Vegas has the lowest hidden cost of homeownership at $9,886, followed by Asheville, NC ($11,318) and St. Louis ($11,824).
Avoidable vs. unavoidable costs
Since property taxes are determined by location, there’s not much you can do about them. “Average annual property tax bills can range from $1,055 in Pittsburgh to $9,145 in New York,” says Amanda Pendleton, Zillow home trends expert. “Homeowners in Chicago and Los Angeles pay similar annual property taxes: $5,617 and $5,840 respectively – even though typical home values in Los Angeles are nearly three times higher than those in Chicago.”
Utility costs are based on the rates set by local utility companies and regulators, as well as the amount of energy and water used. “Areas with very hot summers and/or very cold winters, for example, may see seasonal spikes in energy usage to keep the AC and heat on,” Pendleton says. According to Forbes Home, Americans spend an average of $429.33 a month on utilities, and this amount includes energy, water, internet, natural gas, phone, and streaming. Of course, it varies depending on where you live.
But at a time when housing affordability in the U.S. is at the lowest levels since 1996, these hidden costs might force renters to stay where they are. Not that renting is necessarily affordable, but it takes up less of the average consumer’s income than monthly payments – and that’s without the addition of these hidden expenses.
“These costs can be daunting for a new homeowner who has to stretch their budget just to afford a home in today’s housing market,” Pendleton says. And if they didn’t factor in these expenses, she warns that they might be forced to delay planned renovations or new furniture for the home.
However, essential home maintenance projects are essential for a reason. Maintaining appliances, central heat and air, the roof, fire and chimney, gutters, and lawn are not tasks that homeowners can afford to delay until later.
“The cost of essential home maintenance projects varies by city and takes into account everything from an area’s cost of living to supply and demand, with imbalances driving prices up in certain cities,” explains David Steckel, home expert at Thumbtack. “Climate change is also a contributing factor, with large temperature swings and extreme weather becoming more prevalent and putting stress on the existing professional supply base.”
Cities like Los Angeles and New York consistently have higher prices for projects. However, Steckel has been seeing a price increase in cities that have experienced a recent population boom, like Tampa and St. Petersburg, FL. “And in some areas, the real estate market may also have pushed pros to live outside the urban center, forcing them to commute in,” Steckel says, adding that this can lead to an increase in base fees for jobs.
How to prepare for and handle hidden costs
Even if you live in one of the cities with the lowest hidden cost of homeownership, coughing up the additional money each year could be a challenge. These are three tips to help:
Evaluate your spending
If you don’t already have a budget in place, Erica Wright, financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual, recommends calculating your expenses over the past few months.
“Dividing your expenses into three categories – fixed expenses, discretionary expenses, and savings – helps you to take a closer look at your overall spending habits,” she explains. Once you’ve calculated your expenses, she recommends using the 60-20-20 rule when creating a budget. “This means 60 percent of your budget is allocated toward your fixed expenses, 20 percent is used for discretionary spending, and the last 20 is used for emergency funds and goals.”
The next step is to identify specific areas in which you can cut back to save more money. “A good place to start is by identifying budget leaks like hidden fees, excess subscriptions, and the purchase of unnecessary products,” Wright advises. Also consider cutting the cord on your cable services (or at least trimming it down to just the basic package), and shopping around for the best phone plan.
Get an energy audit
An energy audit can help you determine where your home is wasting money. “A homeowner can see savings almost instantly after an audit, and energy audits performed by qualified contractors can cost as little as $100 to $500,” says Greg Fasullo, CEO and energy expert at Elevation.
So, how does this work? He says a contractor can evaluate your home’s energy usage and identify weak points to simplify the process of making improvements. “Audits are now eligible for a tax credit through the Inflation Reduction Act, and in some states, utility companies will generally have incentives to make home improvements that will conserve energy.”
Some companies provide free energy audits, but even if you pay for one, Fasullo says it’s worth it to gain a better understanding of where you’re wasting heat and air, so you can insulate and seal these areas. “Insulation, duct sealing, well-sealed windows, and energy-efficient appliances can help improve air distribution, reduce energy consumption, and extend heating and cooling equipment lifespan.”
In addition, he recommends installing a home energy monitoring device. “This will help you to better understand your consumption behavior and make permanent changes accordingly to reduce energy usage and overall bills.” For example, Fasullo explains you’ll learn to use appliances like dishwashers or washing machines during off-peak times, when utility prices are typically lower.
Consider another home or location
If you’re a first-time buyer, you don’t have to defer your dream of home ownership just because of these hidden costs. According to debt attorney Leslie H. Tayne, founder and managing director of Tayne Law Group in New York City, one option is to downsize your expectations. “A larger house can cost a lot to maintain, and purchasing a smaller home, or even a townhouse or condo, can reduce many expenses.”
Another idea is to consider moving to another locale – especially now that working from home is an option for many people. “Moving can make a major difference in your overall budget if you live in a high-cost area or a state that levies high taxes,” Tayne tells us. “For example, moving to a state such as Florida, Nevada, or Texas can save you thousands on income taxes each year – and states such as Oregon and New Hampshire have no statewide sales tax, which can significantly reduce your overall cost of living.”
And if an interstate move isn’t something you would seriously consider, she says even moving from a major city to purchase a home in a smaller suburb can often reduce your expenses significantly.
Roof issues are to be avoided: regular inspection and maintenance are essential for the health of a … [+] home.
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After two years of a hot homebuying market, Hippo, an American property insurance company based in Palo Alto, California, launched a national survey. The intent: to understand the impact of changing market forces on U.S. homeowners over the past 12 months.
Findings from the 2022 Hippo Housepower Report, a national survey of over 1,000 U.S. homeowners, revealed that a year of growing economic and financial instability took a toll on homeowners and their well-being.
“2022 was a big year for homeowners, managing unexpected issues alongside rising prices and other external factors,” said Hippo President and CEO Rick McCathron. “However, of the homeowners we surveyed, two-thirds who experienced a problem with their homes say that it could’ve been prevented with regular maintenance.”
78% of the survey respondents, all U.S. homeowners, have had regrets about purchasing their homes within the last 12 months. Of those that have regrets: 49% say homeownership is more expensive than they anticipated.
47% say that they have had too many unexpected issues with their home. 47% say there is too much maintenance and upkeep involved, and 46% say that they compromised on things they really wanted for their home. This is felt even more heavily by pandemic buyers. Those who eagerly bought a home during the pandemic regret their purchase more than others (87% vs. 73%.)
Escalating factors caused homeowners to put certain tasks on the back burner this year. Higher prices for gas cut into home project funds for over half of homeowners (54%), and two-thirds of homeowners (64%) concerned with inflation rates say it caused them to delay maintenance. Nearly 40% of those with financial concerns delayed repairs after losing money in the crypto crash, and 52% of homeowners with financial concerns are holding out on home improvements due to recession concerns.
On average, homeowners spent nearly $6,000 on home repairs and maintenance in 2022. However, few are doing enough ongoing home maintenance tasks. Less than 1% of survey respondents addressed all necessary home maintenance tasks such as clearing tree limbs and cleaning appliance filters within the time frame recommended by Hippo Home Care. Yet, the majority of those who experienced a problem in their homes recognize that it could’ve been prevented with proactive maintenance and/or regular inspections (65%).
Naples, Florida-based Blue Diamond Garage Solutions has expanded to North Texas, serving luxury automobile owners with one-of-a-kind custom garage experiences.
Press Release –
updated: Mar 29, 2021
DALLAS, March 29, 2021 (Newswire.com)
– There’s great news for North Texas luxury car owners and enthusiasts. Naples, Florida home and garage solutions company Blue Diamond has expanded their operation to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. For the homeowner obsessed with their luxury automobile, Blue Diamond Garage & Home Solutions are experts in outfitting unique, custom garage spaces, perfectly suited for the world-class vehicles they accommodate.
Blue Diamond Owner-Operator Brennen Seaman has been serving the Southwest Florida community for several years — expertise which has led to a partnership with Texas entrepreneur Chase Hall, who will launch and develop the DFW arm of Blue Diamond.
“Texas has experienced unprecedented growth over the last few years,” says Seaman. “There’s a community of people here that really have a passion for stunning vehicles — whether it’s a larger-than-life 4×4 truck, a head-turning sports car or an elegant touring car. We’re excited for the opportunity to work with Chase here in North Texas, to give those vehicle owners a garage experience befitting the exquisiteness of their vehicles.”
The company’s Southwest Florida headquarters is anchored by Executive Director Alan Forbus. “In an industry with fly-by-night operations providing subpar work, we’ve really put Blue Diamond on the map by offering an elite service, coupled with unparalleled quality,” says Forbus. “We’re excited to deliver that same quality to automobile owners in Dallas-Fort Worth.”
When asked about the key to Blue Diamond’s success in such a short period of time, Forbus indicated that the company has really worked to create genuine relationships with their customers — to truly understand them and align with the customer’s vision. In fact, Blue Diamond Garage & Home Solutions has been lauded by customers for both their penchant for clean, chic design and their craftsmanship. That attention to detail and focus on quality has been a thread that will surely carry through to their first franchise in North Texas.
“I grew up in a family of real estate entrepreneurs that consistently put a premium on quality construction and design,” says Dallas-Fort Worth Operator Chase Hall. “So, when we had the chance to partner with Blue Diamond, we found that we all shared a vision for elite-level quality and workmanship. It made the decision to work together an easy one.
Chase Hall sums it up, saying, “We’re excited to carry the banner for Blue Diamond Garage & Home Solutions here in DFW — to provide North Texans with striking spaces in their homes, perfect for their exquisite automobiles.
For more information or a consultation on a custom garage space for your home, visit Blue Diamond Garage & Home Solutions on the web or call 239-249-5872. For service in the north Texas area, call 214-897-3053. info (@) bluediamondgaragesolutions(dot) com
About Brennen Seaman
Brennen joined Blue Diamond as a founding partner after collaborating with sister company Detailers of Naples. He brings a vision to the company to change how people build their man caves and garages.
About Alan Forbus
Alan manages operations for Blue Diamond Southwest Florida. He enjoys helping luxury automobile owners turn the garage into a lifestyle amenity. He brings a combination of stylish design and construction expertise to build incredible spaces. A people person at heart, his mission is to grow Blue Diamond by creating long-lasting, win-win relationships.
About Chase Hall
Chase is owner-operator of Blue Diamond North Texas. As a native Texan with a strong background in real estate and construction, Chase is especially calibrated to the needs of DFW luxury automobile owners. He is passionate about creating meaningful relationships with people, a factor to which he attributes his entrepreneurial success.
