3 home maintenance tips for the summer

The summer is a great opportunity to get outside and spend some carefree time in the sunshine. Although seasonal adventures can be tempting, make sure your home is in great shape to not only leave alone for a few days, but to entertain guests as well. Keep the following three tips in mind for optimal summer maintenance. Before opening the windows, be sure their screens have no rips or tears. In addition, before turning on the air conditioner confirm that all the windows are able to shut tightly to conserve energy and save money. Check out the roof for any potential signs of leaks or damage. As the summer months can bring rain, this can help prevent issues before they begin. Inspect the patio for any pests, major damage or excess sloping before having guests over. Something as simple as a power wash can make a big difference. Check back here for weekly summer tips from your friendly Alban inspectors this summer.

3 ways to prevent mold exposure in your home

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, molds can be found in virtually any environment, both indoor and outdoor, year round. Although not all molds are toxic, many can have adverse effects on your health, causing upper respiratory issues and aggravating the symptoms of those who are already sick.

Prevent mold growth in your home with the following three tips.

First, be aware of any changes in the home. If you smell a musty, damp odor, it could be mold. In addition, suffering from asthma or allergy-like symptoms can be a sign as well.

Keep humidity levels as low as possible, and use an air conditioner or dehumidifier during the steamier months. As the temperature fluctuates throughout the day, be sure to check the home routinely for any changes in condensation buildup.

Clean areas of the home that get wet regularly, such as the bathroom and laundry room. In addition, immediately remove or replace any furniture or carpets that become wet.

If mold is found in your home, take action quickly. Be sure to check back here for more tips this summer.


3 common home defects to look for this summer

If you’re searching for a new home this summer, be sure to look out for three of the most common home defects buyers face. Although a new home purchase may seem perfect at first, taking a second look is best to ensure everything is in proper working order. First, be aware of older characteristics. Older homes may have dangerous levels of radon, toxic mold or even asbestos hiding in their walls due to fewer building restrictions and the limited technology available when the residence was first built. Look inside the walls as well. A home that suffers from inadequate ventilation will create a laundry list of issues including loss of energy efficiency and possible moisture buildup. A good system will keep a home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. A home that is sloping excessively or is surrounded by standing water is a clear sign of a poor drainage issue. Although this can be fixed, sometimes the only solution for is a complete system replacement. Make sure your dream home is safe to move into with a professional inspection by Alban Inspections. Check back here for more tips this summer.

Research Video Discloses Realtor Challenges and How to Combat Them

Do not miss this information packed video asking what challenges are facing Realtors and how can they be overcome.  In our effort to work collegially with the Realtors who refer clients to Alban Inspections, we commissioned a private research firm located in Seattle Washington to take a broad and intensive look at conditions of the real estate market, determine the greatest challenges to Realtors today, and propose effective solutions to combat these challenges. The final report came to Alban as a long PowerPoint presentation with extensive data and very sound conclusions and solutions. We then boiled it down into a focused and precise presentation for Realtors which we intended to use in continuing education classes.  But the Maryland Real Estate Commission essentially eliminated in-office continuing education.  Alban’s solution was to produce the video you are about to see.  As a companion to the video, Alban also prepared a written report to permit Realtors to study the research and incorporate the findings into their presentations to clients.  All this is offered you free – our way to say thank you for 18 years of great relationships. The challenges really matter.  These unspoken fears harbored by Realtors’ clients are impediments to making a positive home buying decision.  Like electricity traveling through highly resistant wires, there is a lot of heat but nothing productive at the other end.  Realtors want their clients to be comfortable with the thought of saying “YES.”   If hidden doubts cloud the decision making process, “YES” becomes “MAYBE” or even worst, a “NO”.      Click here to be whisked to the video, entitled The Three Greatest Challenges Real Estate Agents and Brokers Face Today.  These top threats to your business can be combated and overcome.  Improve your odds of hearing that satisfying “YES, I want that one!”  The thirteen page written companion report can be obtained at the same time.  Do not fear your client’s hidden objections, overcome them.   Let Alban help you. COUPON $50 Off Five Star Assessment July and August, 2012 Summer Special – Mention that you saw this offer in our newsletter and receive $50 OFF a Five Star Home Assessment.