Lead Base Paint is in all homes built before 1978. That is what I tell my customers when they are looking to purchase a home built in prior to "78". My job is to help the consumer to understand about defects and disclosures. So, I explain to consumers that even though a seller may say there's no reports or knowledge of lead base paint... it could be there.
Lead exposure can affect any adult, but is a high concern for pregnant women and children, because toxins effect a developing brain and absorption by the bone at high levels. Knowledge and education is key. But... lets put this in perspective.
People deal with lead in our lives. Fishing weights are made of lead, there's leaded gasoline in older vehicles... copper pipes were soldered with lead for connections for plumbing. Toys that come from foreign countries still use lead to paint toys and dishes. Primarily, the problem lies when children eat paint chips, (lead taste sweet), off in the floor or window seals, or... when sanded paint becomes inhaled in dust form. When working on, or with lead... lead particles gets on clothes and can be brought into your own home.
As of April, 2010... the EPA has introduced new regulations for the housing industry. Renovations, repair and painting contractors must be certified and use lead-safe work practices when working in homes built before 1978. These regulations may cause work on these old houses too expensive to repair, and buyers need to re-think the purchase. Consumers can opt out working on their own homes or occupants can sign a statement stating there are no pregnant women or children residing in the home for the contractor to do the work.
Author : Deborah Allison
Helping buyers with information about the roofing materials and it's condition should be directed to a roofing expert for inspection.
I have found that composite shingles are the most commonly material used. The lower-end, three tab shingle vary in life ranges of 15 to 20 years, where heavier and more expensive architectural shingles give a textured, three dimensional look. The life expectancy is 30 plus years for the higher grade shingle.
Clay,tile and slate are stylish and more unusual. The cost is also expensive and takes longer to install by a experienced seasoned contractor. These type of materials heat up slowly which provides a more moderate effect on hot temperatures. Tiles are lighter than concrete, but more fragile. Both these materials can weather years beyond the life expectancy of traditional asphalt/composition shingles. An estimate maybe of 50 plus years.
Metal roofs are becoming more popular. They come in a variety of textures, shapes and thicknesses. Composites can look like wood shakes to slate and can be pricey. Life spans can reach 50 plus years.
Author : Deborah Allison
According to the U.S. Census Bureau... the average square footage of a new house has decreased slightly to 2215 square feet from it's high of 2277 sq. ft. in 2008. This is the first drop since the recession of the early 1980's. Americans are starting to embrace the idea that less is more when it comes to living space... perhaps due to the 2007 economic down cline again.
What is interesting is current housing standards are double the average home of the 1960's.
Author : Deborah Allison
The Real Estate industry is so very complicated, and every
transaction is unique...you need someone with experience in the industry,
excellent negotiations skills, and proven results. You need a
