Tag Archives: Dinsmore Team

Prevent & Thaw Frozen Pipes This Winter

frozen-pipes-620x400Generally speaking, the winters here in Georgia remain somewhat mild in relation to other areas within the U.S.; however—as evidenced by the icy weather last January—even in the South, deep freezes do happen.

Sadly, not all houses are built the same, particularly those situated in warmer climates.  Here in Georgia, since freezing temperatures tend to be the exception rather than the rule, most homes are built with water pipes which are located in unprotected, uninsulated parts of the structure; however, aside from general construction differences, variation can even be found within the homeowners themselves, since people generally accustomed to warmer weather tend to be less aware of freezing problems.

Therefore, since frozen pipes can often be an extremely messy and expensive problem, it’s important to understand why it happens and how to make sure it doesn’t happen in your home.

WHY DO PIPES FREEZE?

For anyone who has ever put a can of soda in the freezer to watch what the expanding, frozen liquid does to the actual can, it’s helpful to think of the pipes in your home the same way.  Water expands as it freezes, which puts extreme pressure on whatever medium is holding it in—to include both metal and plastic piping.

Thus, the pipes that pose the greatest risk for homeowners are, as previously mentioned, ones that are exposed to severe cold without protection—i.e. outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and unheated interior lines in areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages, as well as pipes that run along exterior walls with little or no insulation.

HOW TO PREVENT FROZEN PIPES IN ADVANCE

Before the really cold weather sets in, consider following these recommendations:

1. Drain all water from swimming pool and water sprinkler lines following the manufacturer’s directions.  Also, avoid the use of antifreeze in these lines unless directed by a professional, since antifreeze is not only environmentally harmful, but particularly dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.

2. Remove and drain all hoses that are used outside, and close the inside valves supplying your outdoor house bibs.  Open the outside house bib so the water can drain and allow it to remain open so any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing it to break.

3. Take note of other sections in your home where water pipes may be located in unheated areas.  Whether the piping is for hot or cold water, insulate them for protection.

4. Consider using specific products for pipe insulation such as pipe sleeves or heat tape.  If you’re not looking to spend a lot of money, even newspaper wrappings can provide some degree of protection in exposed areas.

STEPS TO TAKE DURING COLD WEATHER

1. If your water supply lines are in the garage, keep the garage door closed to protect your pipes from the elements.

2. When the temperatures take a drastic dip (particularly 20° F or lower), let the faucet drip with cold water.  Running water, even if it’s only a trickle, can help stop the pipes from freezing.

3. If you plan on traveling or being away from your home for an extended period of time, make a point to leave the heat on (set to no lower than 55° F).

TO THAW ALREADY FROZEN PIPES

If you attempt to turn on the faucet and only a trickle comes out—or nothing at all—it’s safe to say that the pipe is probably frozen.  To remedy the situation, consider the following:

1. Keep the faucet open as you begin treating the pipe.  Once things begin to thaw, continued running water will help the ice melt faster.

2. Apply heat directly to the pipe through the use of an electronic heating pad, hair dryer, or portable space heater.  Towels soaked in hot water can also be used to wrap around the pipes; however, avoid using any methods that involve an open flame.

3. Check all additional water sources in the home to see if there are other frozen pipes.  If there appears to be a frozen area that you either cannot access or cannot thaw, call a licensed plumber for assistance.

PROTECTION FOR THE FUTURE

Sure, deep freezes are rare here in Georgia, but that doesn’t mean they don’t occur.  Plain and simple, it only takes one really cold day for a burst pipe to create a horribly expensive mess, so it’s wise to consider not only adding insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces, but to maintain higher temperatures in these areas.  Furthermore, if you’re planning a remodel, speak with the contractor about the possibility of relocating certain exposed pipes.

Protecting your home is important, especially if you’re attempting to sell it and it’s sitting vacant.  Don’t let that possible sale turn into a nightmare of water damage and foundation work.

If you have any questions or would like the referral of an experienced, reputable plumber, please feel free to contact me.

Marie Dinsmore | The Dinsmore Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com | 770-712-7789

Get Ready for Home Builder Year-End Sales

cyrus-exteriorWhen it comes to big-ticket purchases such as cars and electronics, many people expect year-end sales and incentives; however, what they may not realize is that developers and builders are also willing to propose incentives as well.

By offering a variety of extras such as freebies, upgrades, reduced prices, and other enticements, many builders hope to boost sales during the typically slow winter months, especially since most buyers are too busy with holiday events to focus on relocation.  By sweetening the deal, builders create a win-win situation for themselves, as well as the buyer, which allows them to finish one division before embarking on newer projects.

Still, year-end incentives are not just about drawing potential home owners to close-out communities—in many ways, they help attract shoppers to start-up developments as well.  In these neighborhoods, once the first four or five homes have been sold, the early-bird pricing goes up, making it important to take advantage of low prices as they occur.

In regards to what types of year-end incentives are offered, it generally depends upon what the developer thinks local buyers will value the most.  Kitchen upgrades tend to garner a lot of attention; however, other builders offer everything from third garages and closing costs, to design options and flat screen TVs.

As we get further into fall, if you’re in the market for a new home, it’s wise to consider your options before the year is through.  Instead of waiting until spring when prices will have gone back up, you’ll save a lot of money by getting a head-start on the process in November or December.

If you need assistance or would simply like some advice on how to best utilize the next few months, I’d love to speak with you.

Please do not hesitate to contact me.

Marie Dinsmore | The Dinsmore Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com | 770-712-7789

Marseille Final Lots Available – Cumming, GA

112512-HF-cover_4If you’ve had your eye on the Marseille neighborhood in Cumming, GA, but have found yourself putting off serious consideration, the time has come to start making some decisions!  Earlier this month, Edward Andrews Homes announced the marketing of the remaining ten homes within the Marseille community, and with an abundance of high-end appliances and luxurious materials, each one is a steal at just $399 to $480K.

Most of the original homes within this neighborhood closed within in the mid to high $500’s, so you don’t want to let this pricing pass you by.  Below is a list of the remaining homesites for your consideration.

HOMESITE 1– This Camellia floor plan includes a basement, as well as a keeping room, Jack & Jill secondary bath, a closed-in media room, and a FANTASTIC backyard!  With an elegantly upgraded interior and a craftsman fill, this home is one of the best values in the community.  For a limited time, buyers will still have the option to change the flooring, tile, or paint colors—$459,000.

Marseille-forsyth-georgia-camellia-master-bathroom-1024x682HOMESITE 29- Located within the second phase, this wooded homesite is still in the pre-planning stage but will be built with an Orchid layout that includes a basement, a keeping room, and a closed media room.  Additionally, since EA Homes values a customized experience, buyers will still be able to pick their colors for a limited time—$454,900.

HOMESITE 49- If you’re looking for a home that includes a useable backyard, as well as a beautiful front porch and basement, then this is the homesite for you.  This particular house was designed with the Camellia layout and also boasts a keeping room, a closed-in media room, a truly amazing master closet, and an abundance of beautiful upgrades—$469,900.

HOMESITE 50- If you want a home with curb appeal, this house comes equipped with a large front and side yard, as well as a basement.  While still in the pre-planning stages, this home also features a Burton floor plan, which is one of Marseille’s most desirable options, and for a limited time, is open for buyers who would like to select their upgrades—$474,900.

HOMESITE 59- Featuring a stunning stone covered entryway and custom hanging light fixture, this Orchid basement plan includes a keeping and media room, as well as an upgraded professional landscaping package which lends itself to a truly serene home—$449,900.

Marseille-forsyth-georgia-camellia-kitchen-dark-cabinets-1024x682HOMESITE 62- If you’re looking for a home with a master on the main floor, this is the last remaining home featuring this option in the division.  Featuring a Woodruff layout which includes a large basement, beautiful open floor plan, five bedrooms, and a closed-in media room, this gem of a house is located on a premium lot with an abundance of privacy and a rolling creek—$479,900.

HOMESITE 67- If you want a home which you can fully customize to meet your needs, this Camellia basement layout is still in the pre-planning stages and is available for buyers looking to select their own colors, upgrades, and other options—$474,900.

HOMESITE 100- As the last slab homesite within the community, this lot will feature an Orchid layout, which includes an amazing backyard, as well as a keeping room and close-in media space.  If you’re looking for value, then this is the home for you—$399,900.

If you want to learn more about any of these homes or would like to schedule a viewing, I’d love to assist you with the process.  When it comes to new subdivisions, while it’s always possible to work directly with the builder’s agents, it’s always a wise idea to work with an experienced Realtor who can make sure your interests and needs are being protected.

Please feel free to contact me for more information.

Marie Dinsmore | The Dinsmore Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com | 770-712-7789

Why You Need a Realtor

RealtorWithClients-wide8Right off the bat, I understand that having a licensed Realtor write a blog about the reasons you should hire an agent may seem like a conflict of interest; however, I entered the complex world of real estate specifically because I believe that all current and future homeowners deserve to have someone in their corner when attempting to navigate the often confusing process of purchasing a home.

Plain and simple, with the over-abundance of technology flooding our consciousness every day, it’s no secret that searching for the perfect house has gotten easier.  Right at your fingertips, there are thousands of homes with details about everything from neighborhood locations and prior purchase dates, to photos, virtual walk-throughs, and a variety of builder specifics.  Gone are the days when you would have to spend hours driving through neighborhoods while collecting home fliers and scheduling dozens of showings—today, your access is instant.

Still, there’s a tried-and-true saying that is extremely pertinent in today’s market and it helps explain my list of reasons why you should hire an agent:

“Keep calm & let a Realtor handle it!”

1.)  APPRAISERS – When it comes time for an appraiser to look at your home, it helps to have someone who can run interference and provide them with the comparable sales which were used to determine your home’s proper listing price (this is especially helpful if the appraiser is not familiar with your neighborhood).

2.) BRING EVERYONE TOGETHER – While you may not realize it, closing on a home requires a lot of parties to be on the same page—from the loan officer, inspector, and appraiser, as well as the buyer’s Realtor and closing attorney—which means a lot of behind the scenes work will need to take place before everything is settled.  If you don’t want to see your deal fall apart before closing, it’s important to understand that a Realtor will keep things running smoothly.

3.) THEY KNOW THE MARKET – When it comes to getting a fair property price, a Realtor who understands the area is imperative so you don’t wind up overpaying for a home.  Plus, when it comes time for those nerve-wracking negotiations, an experienced agent will be able to fight on your behalf.

4.) SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS – One of the great things about Realtors who have been in the business a while, is that they have a wealth of information about a myriad of service providers.  From contractors and painters, to roofers, landscapers, and electricians, your odds are good that a Realtor will be able to send honest, good providers your way.

5.) GREATER ACCESS – Sure, the internet will help you see some of what’s available; however, to truly gain access to the listed homes in your area, you’ll need a Realtor.  Otherwise, while you may be able to peruse “For Sale by Owner” homes on your own, it’s also important to note that those owners are NOT obligated to use sales contracts or disclosure forms (which protect you as the buyer) upon closing.

6.) CUTTING ACROSS STATE LINES – If you’re looking to move to another part of the country, a Realtor is imperative, especially if you aren’t familiar with where you’ll be heading.  Instead of worrying about the unknowns, a local agent will be able to take note of adequate neighborhoods, schools, shopping venues, etc.

7.) EXTENDED REACH – If you’re considering listing your home on your own, it’s important to remember that this may drastically limit your pool of buyers.  Realtors have an abundance of networking, advertising, and marketing resources at their disposal, so your home will sell that much faster.

In the end, an important bonus of working with a Realtor is that they will be there AFTER your sale is complete.  It’s only natural for questions to arise weeks—or even months—after you sign those papers, so if you’ve been working with an agent, you can rest assured that you’ll never be left in a lurch.

If you’re looking to buy or sell your home, or if you simply need some advice about the current market in North Georgia, I would love to be of service to you.

Marie Dinsmore | The Dinsmore Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com | 770-712-7789

 

So, You’ve Bought an Imperfect House – Learn How to Deal With It

After months—and possibly even years—of planning, searching, and organizing, you’ve finally done it—you’ve signed the paperwork and left with the keys to your new home; however, unless your purchase is totally move-in ready, you’re just getting started.

renovation-businessIf you’ve decided to close on a house that could use a little bit of TLC, it’s important to understand the amount of money and effort it will take to make your home something you are truly happy with.  At the very least, a little paint will help spruce things up; however, in all reality, if there’s updating to be done, it may take more than a new color scheme.

Still, if this is your first house, it’s important to go into the process with realistic expectations about what kinds of time and money will be involved, as well as what you can reasonably expect for a final result.

To help you along the way, here are a few tips to make the process easier:

1.)  CAPITALIZE ON AN EMPTY HOUSE: While it may not be possible to delay your move-in date, if it’s even in the realm of possibilities, it presents a great opportunity to begin the transformation process without having to worry about getting your things covered with renovation dust.

2.) DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP: In our individualistic culture, many of us feel that we have to deal with things on our own, but what’s the point of having friends and family if you can’t exercise a bit of reciprocity when you need a few extra hands?  When it’s time to paint, turn it into a fun party with food and drinks, and chances are good that no one will mind the work.

3.) RELY ON EXPERTISE: There are times when pride can be a good thing; however, if you’re not totally sure what you’re doing, it’s important to swallow it when you need to admit that you cannot get the job done without the advice of your local hardware pro.  Don’t be shy about asking questions—that’s what they’re there for!

4.) HAVE PATIENCE: Yes, renovating your home—especially when you’re attempting to do it on your own—takes work, but if you attempt to rush or try to go beyond your comfort level, you’re likely to make mistakes.  Don’t risk making bad decisions when a little patience would have saved you a botched design.

5.) ORGANIZATION, ORGANIZATION: When you’re attempting to leave your old home, move into your new one, and manage renovations, staying organized is clearly easier said than done, but it doesn’t mean it’s not extremely important.  To get started, make a point of keeping all of your receipts in one place, registering new appliances and electronics, and filing for rebates within the first five days of making a purchase.  It might be tempting to postpone these tasks in the chaos of getting settled, but all that will do is lose you money in the long run.

If you’re considering a move, I’d love to help you get things going.

Marie Dinsmore | The Dinsmore Team | www.dinsmoreteam.com | 770-712-7789