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        <title>MilitaryHomeSearch.com Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/home-maintenance-tips-for-colorado-springs-homeowners/</link>
        <description></description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/time-to-blow-out-your-sprinklers.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/time-to-blow-out-your-sprinklers.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Time to blow out your sprinklers</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
October is Sprinkler Blow Out Month


Temperatures are set to hit freezing in Colorado over the next couple of weeks, which means if you have an irrigation system at your home, it is time to have a professional blow it out. If there is water left in the lines, the freezing temperatures can cause damage to your irrigation system, as well as to pipes inside your home. The good news is, you still have ample time to properly address this, and landscaping companies offer this service for a very reasonable fee.


The team at MilitaryHomeSearch.com is recommending Pro Landscaping: 719-459-6073. Jose Lopez at Pro Landscaping is offering a discount if you call and mention Military Home Search (MHS). 


 


Please remind your neighbors and friends to have their sprinklers blown out as well. Here's to fall weather, pumpkin spice lattes, building huge piles of leaves, and anxiously waiting for our first snow of the season


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:10:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/mold-remediation-guide.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/mold-remediation-guide.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Found Mold? How to Start the Mold Remediation Process</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Maybe you know someone who's had mold in their home. Maybe it's happened to you. Mold occurs naturally, and while most homes are well-equipped to prevent its growth, it could appear when you least expect it. Unfortunately, mold is not a problem that will disappear on its own. It has to be removed or remediated as soon as possible after its discovery. Read on to learn about the best ways to remove or remediate mold growth in a home.


What Is Mold?


Mold is a type of fungi that proliferates in dark places. Mold spreads by releasing spores that turn into a fuzzy growth that most people have probably seen on old food. Mold damages whatever it's growing on and releases irritants into the air.


There are thousands of species of mold, and only some are toxic. While some are worse than others, none are desirable. There will always be some mold in your house, but you can establish a normal ecology where it's under control and undetectable. If you start to see or sense mold, though, you need mold treatment immediately.


The Difference Between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation


Mold removal is simply the act of removing mold. If there's not much and it's only on non-porous surfaces, you can remove it with traditional home cleaning techniques. Be aware, however, that it will release spores when it's disturbed. A face mask and gloves should be worn when cleaning the mold.


Mold remediation goes a step further. It includes the removal and replacement of damaged material that can't be salvaged. It incorporates cleaning and disinfecting of areas that can be saved. It eradicates mold and sometimes encapsulates it to prevent additional growth.


Mold Remediation: When to DIY and When to Call an Expert


During mold remediation, it's important to protect the health of the workers. Toxins may be released when mold is disturbed. The EPA advises that homeowners don't remove large mold areas alone. Major mold remediation is one of the home improvements handled by professionals, not DIYers.


For larger mold invasions, you need to hire a contractor who specialized in mold remediation. They'll come in with all the equipment and protective gear they need, including suits, gloves, goggles, and masks. Depending on the size of the problem, it may take several days to complete remediation. There are several steps in the process.


Fix the Problem That Caused the Mold


It may be up to you to identify the mold's cause before the remediation crew comes in. In some cases, the remediator may subcontract the work or recommend a contractor. Often this is a plumbing problem such as a leak. Additionally, a flaw in the roof could allow damp air to infiltrate a dark space. Identifying high-risk mold areas should occur in your final home inspection.


Isolate the Area &amp; Clean the Air


Again, mold can be dangerous when disturbed. You don't want disturbed mold moving throughout the home. The workers will shut the doors and windows and seal other openings with protection such as polyethylene sheeting. The air is cleansed with an air scrubber or air exchanger that replaces the moldy atmosphere with clean, fresh air.


Remove Porous Materials


When mold gets into porous materials such as carpets and gypsum, there's little chance of saving it. Furniture and carpeting have fibers that can retain spores no matter how thoroughly you clean them. The crew will bag up all such materials and dispose of them safely.


Clean Non-Porous Materials


These are usually unmovable structures such as hard flooring and woodwork. First, all visible traces of mold are removed. Then the contractor will spray with an EPA-approved biocide. Depending on the cleanser and the severity of the problem, the biocide might be allowed to sit overnight. Next, they'll scrub the surface free of mold. They may encapsulate any mold that still hasn't been removed.


Drying &amp; Encapsulation


All materials that have been cleansed must be thoroughly dried. You don't want leftover moisture to enable mold to get a new foothold. Rooms are dried with air movers and dehumidifiers, while moisture meters ensure that dryness is adequate.


Surfaces may be sprayed with special encapsulating paint that will keep any unremoved mold from causing a problem. Encapsulation is a recognized, approved type of remediation.


Replacement &amp; Rebuilding


Any drywall, carpet, and similar material that was removed must be replaced. The remediator will most likely subcontract this or leave it up to the homeowner.


Ensuring the Remediation is Successful


When everything is done, the home should be inspected to ensure remediation is complete. Often the remediation contractor will do this. Mold remediation is an unpleasant process usually involving dealing with insurance companies, leaving home, and people in white suits using strong disinfectants. You want to make sure it's done right so the process won't have to be repeated.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Aug 2021 08:43:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/pests-in-the-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/pests-in-the-home.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Pests in the Home: 6 Signs You Probably Need a Pest Control Expert</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


No one likes to discover pests, either the furry or six-legged type, have taken up residence in their homes. When these unwanted critters appear, it's usually an issue that needs immediate addressing. In some cases, homeowners can eliminate the problem themselves, but in others, it's best to get a professional in ASAP. Calling in a pro can be expensive, but sometimes it's the best solution. Here are six signs you probably need to call a pest control expert.


Finding Droppings and Urine


Finding droppings and urine spots in the home signifies an unauthorized occupant has made itself at home. Aside from the uncomfortable feeling of invasion, their presence in the home creates health concerns for both the people and pets living in a home. Pests often carry diseases, and it's important to remove them as soon as possible. Home remedies could take weeks or longer. A professional pest control expert will ensure they take their leave immediately.


Finding Property Damage


Homeowners who find bite marks on furniture or frayed wires might have a mouse or rat chewing these items when no one's looking. The presence of mud tubes along a house's exterior or small piles of tiny pellets resembling sawdust around the foundation is a tell-tale sign of termites. No matter how small, any property damage shouldn't be ignored—it could be the onset of an infestation leading to big repairs and more costly solutions.


Seeing Visible Pests


Homeowners who see several pests scurrying about might not realize that, for every visible bug, there are typically many, many more behind walls and hiding in other cracks and crevices throughout the home. Insect eggs, such as fleas and bed bugs, are also a huge problem, and usually, if they are visible, a much bigger problem exists. Additionally, if spiders and ladybugs are visible, even though many people don't mind them, it also signals they are only present because they have an ongoing meal ticket in the other types of insects living in the home.


Hearing Rustling and Scratching Sounds


Rustling and scratching sounds are mostly heard at night when pests tend to be more active, and homeowners shouldn't disregard these sounds. If the bugs are loud enough to hear, rest assured there are probably more than anyone would be comfortable with lurking between walls. Sounds coming from the attic? That might be a pest of the furry or unusually large kind, such as mice, rats, squirrels, bats, or even raccoons.


Finding Any Sign of Bed Bugs


Bed bugs are a type of pest that belongs in a category in itself. These little insects rapidly reproduce, and while they're possible to eliminate with DIY methods, it takes time and doesn't always work. By the time they are visible, there are typically many bugs and eggs hidden in carpets, outlets, furniture padding, walls, headboards, and, of course, mattresses and box springs. Effective treatments usually require intervention where a professional will either use chemicals or heat to eliminate these pests.


Tried the DIY Route and It's Not Working


DIY solutions can work if the problem is identified quickly before an infestation occurs. However, if the placement of bait, traps, and other home remedies don't resolve the problem in a timely fashion, call a pro. Persisting with ineffective home remedies can end up being more costly than calling in an expert in the first place. If a DIY treatment isn't working, the pests are spending that time growing more entrenched, causing more damage, and possibly making household members ill.


Certified experts have the experience, training, and equipment to eliminate pests. Just like choosing whether to DIY a home renovation, sometimes it's best for homeowners suffering infestations to call in professional reinforcements.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2021 08:32:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/gutter-maintenance.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/gutter-maintenance.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Gutter Maintenance: A Short Guide to Gutter Care &amp; Inspections</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


A house's gutters are not its most prominent features, but they are important all the same. Well-maintained, good-looking gutters increase curb appeal. Additionally, gutters play a vital role in protecting the home from costly water damage. Luckily, regular maintenance and care go a long way toward ensuring that these features continue to do their job.


Maintenance for the Homeowner


There are a few regular jobs the homeowner should do to keep their gutters functioning well and extend their useful life. Cleaning is the most obvious. Gutters can get clogged with leaves, small branches, and other debris, which can cause water to back up. By cleaning at least twice a year, homeowners can ensure that water flows smoothly. In most cases, this is a job that a homeowner can do on their own with the assistance of a sturdy ladder. However, for extremely high gutters or gutters positioned above uneven ground, a professional's assistance may be necessary.


A visual inspection of the gutters should be performed a few times a year. This can usually be done from the ground by circling the house and keeping an eye out for issues. Common gutter problems can include:




Splitting


Sagging


Cracking


Signs of water damage


Peeling paint




If any of these indicators are present, it's time to talk to a professional about gutter repair. Gutter repair should be taken on sooner rather than later. The longer issues with gutters are allowed to remain, the higher the chances of damage to the home. Think carefully before deferring maintenance.


Professional Gutter Care


In addition to the DIY gutter maintenance that keeps this feature in good shape, professionals should be called out to take care of certain tasks.


As mentioned earlier, gutters should be repaired when signs of damage are noted. If the damage is caught early and is only in a limited area, gutter repair is a viable solution. However, when problems cover significant sections of the gutters, full replacement may be the better solution.


By checking the gutters for issues regularly, homeowners can catch problems early and prevent issues from leading to serious water damage to the house itself. Those who are concerned about possible issues with their gutters should talk to a professional to get recommendations.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 04 May 2021 08:25:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/unpermitted-work.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/unpermitted-work.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>4 Things to Do After Discovering Unpermitted Work as a Home Seller</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Municipalities require homeowners to obtain permits for certain home improvement projects. Sometimes, homeowners go ahead without securing permits, only to realize they must take significant remediation steps when it comes time to sell. Others may have purchased their homes years ago without realizing previous owners hadn't secured permits. Homeowners should always disclose unpermitted work, but unfortunately, this isn't always the case.


Not all unpermitted work is bad. However, permit requirements are in place for a reason, and some improvements might not be up to safety codes. Homeowners who find unpermitted work must typically take steps to resolve the problem(s) before they can sell their properties. Here are four things to do after discovering unpermitted work in the home.


For informational purposes only. Always consult with an attorney, tax, or financial advisor before proceeding with any real estate transaction.


Document the Details of the Home Upgrades


To start, homeowners should look at the original blueprints and evaluate any upgrades performed since the home was built. If blueprints aren't available, homeowners should check with their city or county and ask for a copy on file. Next, do a public search for any permits issued for the property. If there are no records, then the upgrades were likely unpermitted. 


Over the years, safety codes or legal requirements change. Even if a permit was secured under older standards, it must be documented. If records aren't saved, this could result in problems if a homeowner cannot prove the work was done when it was legal.


Look Up Current Building Permit Laws


Learning current laws can shed some light on the home improvements to see if they were installed or built up to current standards. If work looks like it wasn't done legally, homeowners may want to pursue a retroactive permit. If the work was done correctly and up to code, inspectors may grant one. On the other hand, if the work is determined to be subpar and/or a safety hazard, more significant remediation steps will likely be necessary.


Bring Unpermitted Upgrades Up to Date


Depending on the renovation or upgrade, the best thing to do might be to hire an architect, get properly permitted, and perform remediation to legalize the situation. This can get costly, but it's usually worth the investment in the long run rather than risk fines, penalties, and back taxes.


Other Remediation Options for Unpermitted Work


Homeowners who don't want to bear the responsibility of fixing work they didn't pursue permits for or unpermitted work that was never disclosed to them have a couple of other options.




Contact an attorney to contact original sellers; they may be liable for the work if they knew about it when they sold the property.


Sell the home at a lower price and list it “as-is.” If purchased under these terms, buyers agree they're willing to purchase the property regardless of flaws. However, this may make prospective buyers hesitant, or the buyer may not be approved for a loan.




Homeowners should never sell without disclosing unpermitted work, even if previous owners were at fault. They could ultimately be held liable for the costs of any repairs, permits, or remediations. Nor should a home be advertised in a way that highlights unpermitted rooms, features, or other additions.


Having unpermitted work not only creates hassles when trying to sell, but insurance companies may not cover accidents or damages in unpermitted areas of the home, or mortgage companies may require immediate loan repayments. Unpermitted work can sometimes be resolved easily before putting a home on the market, but other times it can be a significant hurdle. Whatever the case, the best way to approach the conflict is with complete honesty.


For informational purposes only. Always consult with an attorney, tax, or financial advisor before proceeding with any real estate transaction.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2021 10:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/repairing-roof-damage.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/repairing-roof-damage.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Damaged Roof? How to Identify Problems &amp; Start the Repair Process</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


Roofing is the primary protection for any home's interior spaces, making its integrity a key point of interest for owners. Even the strongest and most reliable roofing systems can fail for various reasons, including poor installation, old age, storm damage, and other acts of nature.


Regardless of the cause, it is essential to quickly identify any roofing damage and begin navigating the repair process as soon as possible. Here are some reasons and signs of a damaged roof and tips for resolving problems efficiently.


Leading Causes of Roofing Damage


Beyond age and installation issues, storms are a big concern for most roofing types, particularly for those with asphalt or metal roofs. Wind damage can peel off parts of the installation, leaving the indoors exposed or source leaks. Hail damage tends to leave small holes and dings, and those that are severe enough can become problematic.


Other signs of roofing damage are more obvious, such as rain and water penetrations. This damage can leave behind rotting wood and structural damage and result in leaks in the attic, ceilings, and walls. Mold can take hold and is very challenging and expensive to eradicate in most cases. Make repairs right away 


Get a Professional Assessment and Estimate


When homeowners believe their roof has sustained damage, the first step is to call a roofing professional to confirm any damage that may be present. The professional will discuss the problems and offer various solutions. Most roofing companies offer free estimates for victims of roofing damage. Their assessment and estimate will be pivotal in working with a warranty company or home insurance provider. An adjuster will later determine the damage, so the initial estimate serves as an essential point of reference.


Investigate the Roofing Warranty


When a home is constructed or a transfer or sale occurs, there should be information provided by builders or sellers about warranties for major systems, including roofing. Note that a home warranty is not the same as a roof warranty. The key point is that not many warranties will cover expenses related to weather damage.


What surprises most owners is the discovery that roofing warranties tend only to cover installation and manufacturer defects. Those dealing with storm damage will need to turn to their homeowner's insurance provider for potential resolutions.


Dealing with Homeowners Insurance for Roofing Repairs


It can be challenging to determine just what kind of damage a home insurance policy covers, as well as figuring out limitation amounts. Most policies offer compensation for necessary repairs caused by vandalism, fire, and moderate weather incidences like rain, wind, and hail. However, they may or may not cover tornadoes and hurricanes.


Before signing up for any policy, homeowners should go over the details, such as insurance for roofing replacement in addition to structural damage. Should an incident occur, it is highly recommended to take photographs, carefully document all damage, and call the policy provider right away.


Tips for Preventing Roof Damage


According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, owners should make it a point to have their roof inspected bi-annually by a professional, once in spring and once in fall. This helps identify any potential compromises early on before they get the chance to fail during a bad storm. Homeowners should replace aging roofs, and many contractors will work with owners concerning financing if needed.


Need a good recommendation for a roofing contractor? Search local listings and reviews or discuss the options with your real estate professional of choice.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:58:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/addressing-deferred-maintenance.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/addressing-deferred-maintenance.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>5 Tips for Successfully Addressing Deferred Home Maintenance</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 


There are many reasons why homeowners might defer maintenance. Sometimes, they lack the funds or the time to perform necessary upkeep on the house or property. In other cases, they buy a home and discover there are years of deferred maintenance in various aspects of the structure. Getting on top of it takes time, and it often requires help from a professional. With these five tips, homeowners can make correcting deferred maintenance an overall easier process.


Understand the Risks


Deferred maintenance is always a risk for future problems, but the type of maintenance needed can significantly affect the risk. Homeowners should research the kinds of issues that are likely to come up, and use that to determine where to start first. For example, peeling paint on siding may not seem like a big deal. However, the paint on some types of siding prevents rotting or water absorption. By comparison, some concerns like leaking or accumulating water damage are obviously problematic and need to be addressed as soon as possible.


Set Priorities


With many years of deferred maintenance, it is sometimes hard for homeowners to know where they should put their efforts. Regular home upkeep takes many hours per month, and it cannot be fixed in less time. In fact, once certain aspects of the home's structure and systems fall into disrepair, it may require much more time. Homeowners may want to start by identifying the problems that are causing significant damage right now or could cause major damage soon. Creating a list in order of priority will help people make the most progress.


Create a Maintenance Calendar


Whether homeowners plan to do most of the updating work themselves or hire professionals, they should build a maintenance calendar. A good maintenance calendar takes these factors into consideration:




Need to fix problems


Amount of time needed for repairs or replacement


The best time of year to perform upkeep


Homeowner or professional availability




People should take care to avoid overbooking themselves for repair tasks, particularly if they are inexperienced or unsure of how much time they need. It is better to take longer to get it all done correctly than to become overwhelmed and quit.


Carefully Consider Temporary Measures


In some cases, homeowners may need to perform a few stop-gap measures to prevent damage before they can address the problem completely. For example, taping a cracked window can minimize air leaks and additional breakage. Similarly, turning off water to a leaky faucet can reduce the likelihood of water damage or high water consumption bills. Concerns arise when the temporary measure starts to function like a permanent solution. Homeowners should remember that anything they do at the beginning to buy themselves more time may get worse if they leave it for months.


Get Professional Assistance


When deferred maintenance becomes a serious issue, homeowners may want to consider hiring a professional to help them identify the extent of the problem and devise solutions. If the problem is causing serious damage to the house or risk to people living in it, it may require a professional solution. Professionals charge more for the service, but they tend to repair the issue more quickly and accurately than homeowners.


Correcting deferred maintenance can take homeowners up to a year or more, but the investment is worth it. By following these five tips, people can get to the biggest problems and solve them sooner.


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2021 10:08:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/simple-ways-to-winterize-your-colorado-springs-home-on-a-budget.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/simple-ways-to-winterize-your-colorado-springs-home-on-a-budget.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>Simple Ways To Winterize Your Colorado Springs Home On A Budget</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





We've all noticed it; the icy cool breezes, the flecks of snow on the lawn, and the need for an extra layer outside. While we might not like to admit it, Winter is just around the corner. Just like you'd get your vehicle ready for the weather ahead, there are some things that homeowners can do to ensure their home doesn't turn into an ice palace when the temperatures drop.


Getting your home ready for Winter doesn't have to cost much, and each little improvement can help save expensive fixes and wasted energy, saving you time and money in the long-run.


Here's how you can get your Colorado Springs home in tip-top condition this Winter:


Reverse The Ceiling Fan


It's something incredibly simple but it can make a considerable difference. Setting your fan to rotate clockwise will help redistribute the warm air near the ceiling back down to the main living space, making full use of the existing heat in your home. This small difference can save up to 15 on your home heating costs –for free.


Replace The Weather-Stripping &amp; Caulking


Over time, your weather-stripping and caulking will wear down and need replacing. Ensure every crevice has a good seal by running your hand around window frames and doorframes to feel for any cool drafts. Even the smallest draft is enough to let the cool air in and your warm air out, and you'll notice the difference on your heating bill too.


Check Your Insulation


Most new homes come with a good amount of insulation thanks to modern building codes, but older homes quite often don't have enough insulation to really keep your home as warm as it could be. Experts recommend around 15-inches of insulation in the attic to get the most out of the heat in your home, which means you'll need to spend less money on creating more heat to replace it as it's lost.


Mind Your Driveways &amp; Foundation


Before the temperatures get too cold, check your driveway, steps, and foundation for any cracks or small damage. Concrete is susceptible to damage from small cracks. Water can get stuck in the crack, and as the ice freezes, it can actually break apart the concrete making an even larger crack. Over time, you'll have a much larger problem that will be much more difficult to fix –and expensive.


Winterize Your Attic


Winterizing your attic can improve your home's overall energy efficiency throughout the year. Start by checking the insulation. Attic insulation should come up over the joists. When you look in the attic, the floor should look like a sea of insulation. If you can see the joists, then your attic needs more insulation.


You can add your own insulation, if you know how. Keep in mind that improper insulation techniques could result in development of condensation, mold, and mildew in your attic. Never cover vents or holes to the outside with your insulation.


If you're not properly trained to add insulation to your attic, consult with a professional. An experienced contractor can help you insulate your attic properly. While you're insulating your attic, seal cracks around vents, and fix any holes that were made by animals. 


Check The Filters In Your Furnace or Heat Pump


It's recommended to have your furnace or heat pump serviced at least once per year to make sure that everything is functioning at its peak efficiency. It's also a great idea to check the filters yourself once every season to see if they need to be replaced. Even if a filter doesn't look that dirty, it could have caught enough dust and particulates in its fibers the slow its ability to easily sift through the air. Keeping a clean filter will not just protect your heating appliances and keep them running at their best, it can also save you big money on your heating bill each month.


Upgrade To A Programmable Thermostat


If there's no one in your home for a period of time each day, is there really a need to keep it warm? A programmable thermostat will effortlessly maintain a comfortable temperature when you're in the home and hold off on heating it when you're away or sleeping. High-tech thermostats like Nest and Eco-Bee have advanced features, including movement sensors to detect when you're away and mobile apps that allow you to manage your home's climate on the go.


With Cyber Monday right around the corner, it could be a great time to pick one of these up


There are several ways you can improve the value of your home, some little and some large, but basic maintenance goes a long way in making sure your investment remains prosperous. If you're looking to buy in Colorado Springs this Winter, get in touch with the experts at MilitaryHomeSearch.com to get expert advice on your home purchase.


^ Winterize Your Colorado Springs Home On A Budget


 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 21 Jun 2019 14:37:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/what-to-look-for-in-a-good-handyman-or-contractor.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/what-to-look-for-in-a-good-handyman-or-contractor.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>What to Look for in a Good Handyman or Contractor</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





No matter how new or old your home is, you will most certainly require help from a handyman at one point or another. Whether it's fixing a leaky pipe or installing a new roof, regardless of the scope of the project, you want to make sure you hire someone who can get the job done efficiently and affordably.


Finding a good contractor or hiring a handyman is especially important when you're taking care of the house alone if your partner is away or deployed. In these cases, getting some extra help from someone who knows what they're doing is vital.


Here are a few things to look for when hiring a good handyman or contractor:


Check the Contractor's Reviews


In today's digital age, it's easy to find out everything you need to know about a business before calling them. Before hiring a contractor, look at their website, find out if they have any Google Reviews, check other websites like Angie's List or Yelp. Talking to your friends or neighbors about who they recommend is also a good idea as well as checking community center message boards or chat rooms. By checking the reviews, you can find a handyman that comes highly recommended in your community.


Interview the Contractor and Ask for References


Although an online review is a valuable tool for homeowners looking to hire a handyman, it's not the be-all-end-all of a contractor's worth. There are several questions you should ask a handyman before you hire him/her. Before asking for a quote, interview potential handymen about their past experiences, recent jobs, training, industry experience, and more. You will get a good picture of who the person is and what kind of work you cane expect from them. Asking for references is also recommended to talk to past customers who have recently worked with the contractor and can attest to their workmanship.


Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Contractor


The questions you ask when interviewing a contractor can have a profound effect on who you hire. Choosing your questions wisely is important. It's important to ask each contractor the same questions to make it easier to compare professionals to one another. Have a written list of questions for each person that you meet. Below are some of the best questions to ask:


Are you licensed and insured?


Different states have different requirements for contractor licensure. If your state requires contractors to be licensed, find out whether your contractor has the proper credentials to do business in your state.


Do you have references?


All contractors should have references. Get names and numbers for people who have worked with the contractor you're interviewing. Even if the contractor is relatively new to the business, they should still have experience working as an employee for another contractor. Avoid anyone who has no references to give. 


What challenges might you experience on this project?


Find out what your contractor thinks would be the biggest challenges to over come about your job and what your contractor would do to avoid those challenges. 


When can you start work, and how long do you think this will take? 


Often the best contractors are the busiest, so if you're worried about quality, you might be in for a wait. 


Write down what each contractor says when you're interviewing them on the job site. This will make it easier to choose a contractor when the time comes to make a decision. 


Collect Quotes From Multiple Contractors


Before hiring a contractor, collect several quotes from companies that come highly recommended. Do not simply go with the first contractor you come upon. Additionally, do not go with the cheapest price. If you collect three of four quotes from several contractors and one of them is significantly lower than the rest, it's probably for a negative reason. Another warning sign is a contractor who is overzealous about the project. If they start off by promising the world, there is no way they can deliver on their claims. Trust your gut and go with the quote that is reasonable, fair, transparent, and affordable.


Stay Involved with the Home Renovation


Even if you get an amazing vibe from the handyman you choose, it's also important to stay involved with the project. That way, you always have a clear idea of the work that's taking place. In cases where homeowners simply wash their hands of the project, there is a greater chance of the contractor taking advantage and overcharging for unnecessary work. By constantly checking in, you can closely monitor the project and make sure it's done to your satisfaction.


For more tips, tricks, and recommendations for local handymen in Colorado Springs, call Military Home Search at 719-338-7294.



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    <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:22:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-starting-a-thriving-vegetable-garden-in-colorado-springs.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.militaryhomesearch.com/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-starting-a-thriving-vegetable-garden-in-colorado-springs.html</link>
        <author>lauren@militaryhomesearch.com (Lauren Schneider)</author>
        <title>A Beginner's Guide To Starting A Thriving Vegetable Garden In Colorado Springs</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 





Thanks to the annual amount of sunlight the city receives, Colorado Springs may seem like a great place for a garden to succeed, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges as well. The Pikes Peak region is home to several little microclimates, all of which make gardening a totally different experience from one end of the city to the other. However, with a little bit of hard work, the right conditions, and some persistence, you can achieve the beautiful backyard vegetable garden you've been dreaming of.


If you're looking to start your very own vegetable garden in Colorado Springs, here are a few tips to help you get started:


Find The Perfect Spot


You'll want to find a spot that typically receives around 10 hours of sunlight per day. Observe your backyard for a few weeks to see where shadows are being created throughout the day and plan your garden accordingly.


Master The Science of Soil


Unfortunately, you can't really get away with using just any ol' dirt in The Springs. The area's soils are primarily heavy alkaline clay, which has done wonders for producing captivating rock monuments, but isn't so great for the garden. Because the soil is so fine, it can't aerate properly and roots can't take hold. Plus, our soils have a natural pH of 8.5, which is too alkaline for most plants.


Pay a visit to a local nursery, like Harding Nursery near Peterson AFB or Rick's Garden Center, to chat with a local garden specialist who can help you get your soil at the perfect pH level for a prosperous planter.


Be Selective With Your Vegetable Plants


You're going to see the greatest success by choosing plants that will naturally thrive in our arid climate. Here's a list of climate-approved vegetables that have been known to do well in the area:




Lettuces


Peppers


Summer Squash


Tomatoes


Cucumbers


Rambling sweet peas


Half-long carrots




Some of these may need a little extra help growing accustomed to the warm, sunny days the region enjoys, so it can be a good idea to introduce them to direct sunlight in increments. Plus, keep an eye on their moisture levels to ensure they never dry out. Young plants aren't as resilient as their mature counterparts, so they require a little more time and effort in the beginning to get everything established.


Plant Seeds In Trenches


Once you've selected your plants and have acclimatized them to your backyard, it's time to plant Local experts suggest that it's better to create tiny trenches in your planter to retain moisture, save water and direct the flow of water to the roots.


Water Frequently


Visit your garden at least once a day to see how it's doing for water. The hot summer sun and low humidity can zap planters of their moisture quite quickly, so you will likely find yourself watering almost every day throughout the summer. Remember, you're aiming to nurture the roots, not the leaves, so as long as you can feel moisture in the soil beneath the first few inches, the plants should be happy.


Which Vegetables Grow Best in Colorado?


Colorado's high elevation can add some challenges for vegetable gardeners. By picking the right crops, gardeners here can enjoy a bountiful and varied harvest.


Greens that include kale, broccoli, spinach and lettuce all do well in Colorado's cool, wet spring weather. Sow indoors and transplant these to make the most of the season. It is also possible to get a second fall planting of hardy plants like kale and broccoli.


Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, rutabagas and beets all thrive in Colorado soil. In areas with dense clay soil, raised beds can help. Many people also find that choosing shorter varieties of vegetables like carrots aids success.


The dry climate of Colorado is a great place to grow peppers, particularly spicy chiles. Grow a salsa garden during the hottest months with tomatoes, bell peppers and hot peppers like cayenne.


If at First You Don't Succeed, Just Keep Trying


If your first round of gardening doesn't work out, don't fret—there are several factors that could be beyond your control. Getting your soil just right can be like tuning a high-performance engine—it just takes patience, the right tools, and dedication to get it dialed in. In just a few months, you could enjoying be fruits of your labor, literally


If a growing your own food is important to you, let us know We'd be happy to help you find a property with a bright, open backyard that's perfect for a small veggie garden. Send us a message or give us a call at 719.338.7294.




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    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Jun 2019 16:02:00 -0600</pubDate>
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