Household pests can be a persistent and an unwelcome challenge for homeowners, disrupting daily routines and potentially posing health risks to occupants. From ants marching across kitchen countertops to rodents scurrying through attics, the presence of pests can create a sense of unease and frustration.
However, understanding the common pests that may invade homes and implementing effective solutions can help mitigate these issues. In this article, we will explore the various types of household pests encountered by homeowners and provide practical solutions to address and prevent infestations, ensuring a cleaner, healthier living environment for you and your family.
Ants are often found in kitchens and around food sources and can be a common nuisance in homes, especially during warmer months. Solution: Keep kitchen surfaces clean, store food in airtight containers, seal cracks and openings where ants can enter, and use ant baits or natural repellents to deter them.
Cockroaches are resilient pests that can thrive in various environments, including kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Solution: Maintain cleanliness, eliminate food and water sources, seal cracks and gaps, use cockroach baits or traps, and consider professional pest control if infestation persists.
Mice and rats can enter homes through small cracks and openings, causing damage to property and posing health risks through contamination of food and spreading diseases. Solution: Seal entry points, keep food stored securely, eliminate clutter, set traps, use ultrasonic repellents, and consider professional extermination for severe infestations.
Termites can cause significant structural damage to homes by feeding on wood, often going unnoticed until the damage is severe. Solution: Regular inspections, address moisture issues, remove wood-to-soil contact, use termite-resistant materials, apply chemical treatments or bait systems, and seek professional help for severe infestations.
Mosquitoes can breed in standing water and are known vectors for diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. Solution: Eliminate standing water, use screens on windows and doors, install mosquito nets or outdoor traps, use mosquito repellents, and consider professional mosquito control services for severe infestations.
Flies can be a nuisance indoors, especially in areas where food is present, and can also spread diseases by contaminating surfaces. Solution: Keep food stored properly, clean up spills and crumbs promptly, use fly screens on windows and doors, install fly traps or electronic zappers, and maintain good sanitation practices.
Fleas are commonly associated with pets but can also infest homes, causing itchy bites and requiring thorough treatment to eliminate. Solution: Treat pets with flea control products, wash pet bedding regularly, vacuum carpets and upholstery frequently, use flea bombs or foggers, and consult a veterinarian for severe infestations.
While most spiders are harmless, some species can be venomous and pose a threat to humans. They often take up residence in dark, secluded areas of the home. Solution: Seal cracks and gaps, reduce clutter, keep outdoor vegetation trimmed, use spider repellents or natural deterrents, and remove webs regularly.
Nests built by wasps and bees around homes can pose a risk of stings, especially to those allergic to their venom. Solution: Remove nests carefully, keep outdoor areas clean and free of food debris, use insecticidal sprays or dusts for nest removal, and consider professional extermination for large or dangerous nests.
Maintaining a pest-free home requires vigilance, consistency, and a proactive approach to pest management. By identifying common household pests and implementing targeted solutions, homeowners can effectively control infestations and minimize the risks associated with these unwelcome visitors. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is a haven-free from the disruptions and health hazards posed by household pests.
Contact us if you would like a recommendation for a trusted pest control service.
Upcoming changes in real estate transactions are imminent following the resolution of significant class action lawsuits involving sellers and the National Association of REALTORS® along with numerous leading real estate firms nationwide. These changes will have implications for sellers, buyers, and agents alike.
There has been a lot of news coverage in the past few weeks but unfortunately, much of it has added to the confusion on how things will change rather than clarify it.
It was reported that since the seller will most likely be paying only their commission, the price of homes will come down. That is very unlikely to happen. The value of a home is not determined by whether a commission is paid nor the amount of it.
In the terms of the settlement, which is still to be approved by a court, the change will go into effect on August 17, 2024 but some companies will implement the changes earlier. The following excerpts are taken from the NAR Settlement Fact Sheet.
MLS participants acting for buyers would be required to enter into written agreements with their buyers before touring a home.
Compensation continues to be negotiable between agents and the consumers they serve.
Selling brokers must clearly state compensation offers to buyers’ brokers on each listing, which may vary and can even be zero.Compensation offers may not be communicated through the MLS.
The types of compensation available for buyer brokers would continue to take multiple forms, depending on broker-consumer negotiations, including but not limited to:
Fixed-fee commission paid directly by consumers
Concession from the seller
Portion of the listing broker’s compensation
The settlement expressly provides that sellers may communicate seller concessions — such as buyer closing costs — via the MLS provided that such concessions are not conditioned on the use of or payment to a buyer broker.
It is important for buyers to understand that in the many forms of buyer representation agreements that exist throughout the United States, there will be a provision stating the buyer’s agent fee for the transaction. In the past, the most common way the fee was handled was through an agreement that the seller would pay a specific amount to the buyer’s agent or that the listing fee would be shared with the buyer’s agent.
The market will be in a state of uncertainty as to the different ways the buyer’s agent will be compensated. The most common ways would be:
The seller will offer cooperative compensation.
If the fee was less than stated in the buyer rep agreement, the buyer will be responsible for the difference.
If the fee was more than stated in the buyer rep agreement, without exceptions addressing this specific condition, the buyer will have some options such as receiving it as a rebate at closing.
If the seller was not offering cooperative compensation, the buyer would cover it personally.
The buyer could direct their agent to only show houses whose seller is offering cooperative compensation.
Direct the buyer’s agent to negotiate in the offer to purchase agreement that the seller pays the buyer’s agent fee.
Consistently, almost 90% of homebuyers have chosen to collaborate with a real estate agent or broker, a trend expected to persist. Despite the rise of digital research and transactions, the obvious value provided by REALTORS® endures, with nine out of ten homebuyers expressing satisfaction and a willingness to recommend their agent to others.
National Association of REALTORS® members will remain steadfast partners for the countless Americans pursuing the dream of homeownership, providing reliable support and guidance along the way.
The tax benefits of owning both a first and second home can be significant, with the IRS allowing taxpayers to deduct interest and property taxes on both properties as itemized deductions on their tax returns, albeit with certain limitations. Interest deductions are limited to the amount of debt incurred to buy, build, or improve the first and/or second home, with a maximum cap of $750,000. Property taxes, falling under the limitation of state and local taxes as set forth in the TCJA of 2017, are capped at $10,000 per year.
However, while second homes enjoy these benefits, they do not qualify for the Section 121 exclusion sale of principal residence rules. These rules only apply to a taxpayer’s principal residence, allowing couples filing jointly to exclude up to $500,000 of capital gain from the sale of their primary home, and single filers up to $250,000 of gain, provided they have owned and used the property as their principal residence for two out of the five preceding years.
Taxpayers considering selling their second home, which wouldn’t qualify for the exclusion, may explore changing its status to their principal residence. This entails owning and using the property as their principal residence for two years, along with careful documentation and planning to qualify for the exclusion. Indicators of a principal residence include making the second home the preferred mailing address for various documents, ensuring all family members reside there most of the time, having utilities in the homeowner’s name, and updating addresses with relevant entities.
Changing the status of the second home to the principal residence can be beneficial to avoid recognizing gain on the sale. However, it’s crucial to consult with a tax advisor to determine eligibility and ensure proper documentation and support for the change. This guidance will help navigate the process effectively and maximize tax benefits for the homeowner.
The gain on the sale of your home is determined by the price you sell the home, less selling expenses, less the price you paid for it, plus the capital improvements made during the time you owned the property.
IRS and accounting use the term “basis” to describe your cost in the home. It is a dynamic number that changes over time based on capital improvements that are made and capital losses that are incurred. What is called the tax basis may better be referred to as cost basis. It is the taxpayer’s cost in the property used to determine the tax on the gain of the sale.
The calculation begins with the purchase price of the property plus certain capitalized acquisition costs that were owed by the seller but were paid when purchased. Examples would include real estate taxes owed through the day before the sale date, back interest owed by the seller, and charges for repairs that were the seller’s responsibility. Capital improvements made to the property during ownership will increase the basis.
Capital improvements must either materially add value to the home, appreciably prolong the useful life of the property, or adapt a portion of the property to a new use. IRS Publication 523 has a section on figuring the gain or loss on a personal residence.
Some of the following may be considered capital improvements: landscaping, driveway, fence, swimming pool, new roof not covered by insurance, replacement of HVAC equipment and appliances. Maintenance and repairs to a person’s home is not a capital expenditure.
If the owner purchased a home for $350,000 and during that time spent $110,000 on qualified improvements, the cost basis of the property would be $460,000.
If cost recovery had been taken on the home when it was used as a rental property, even though it is now considered a principal residence, the total amount of the depreciation lowers the basis in the property.
Purchase Price
$350,000
Plus Capital Improvements
$110,000
Adjusted Basis
$460,000
Sales Price
$650,000
Less Selling Costs
$31,000
Net Selling Price
$619,000
Less Adjusted Basis
$460,000
Capital Gain
$159,000
In the example above, if the taxpayer owned and used the home as their principal residence for two out of the last five years and had not taken an exclusion on another home during the two years prior to the current sale and didn’t acquire the home through a 1031 exchange during the past five years, the gain qualifies for an exclusion and no tax paid. Single taxpayers and married taxpayers filing separately can exclude up to $250,000 of gain from the sale of a principal residence. Married taxpayers filing jointly can exclude up to $500,000 of gain from the sale.
Record keeping is important for you to substantiate the capital improvements when it comes time to calculate the gain. While IRS does allow you to reconstruct the expenses, it is much better to keep track of them in a contemporaneous manner with dates, receipts, and possibly, pictures for the more expensive improvements.
Owning a home has long been considered a fundamental part of the American dream. It represents far more than just having a place to live—it embodies values, aspirations, and a sense of security. Here’s why homeownership is widely regarded as a key component of the American dream:
Stability and Roots: Owning a home provides a sense of stability and roots in a community. It allows individuals and families to establish themselves, put down roots, and create a sense of belonging.
Wealth Building: Homeownership is often seen as a pathway to wealth building. By building equity over time, homeowners have the potential to accumulate wealth, establish financial security, and pass down assets to future generations.
Personalization and Pride: Homeownership grants the freedom to personalize and customize a space according to personal taste and style. It offers a sense of pride and accomplishment, as homeowners can create a place that truly reflects their identity and values.
Community and Social Connections: Homeownership fosters a sense of community and social connections. Neighbors become more than just acquaintances; they become friends, creating a supportive network that enhances the overall quality of life.
Stability for Future Generations: Homeownership provides a stable environment for future generations. It offers the opportunity to create lasting memories, build family traditions, and provide a secure foundation for children and grandchildren.
Financial Benefits: Homeownership can provide various financial benefits, including potential tax advantages and the opportunity to build credit and establish a solid financial history.
Sense of Achievement: Achieving homeownership is often viewed as a significant milestone and a symbol of personal achievement. It represents hard work, dedication, and the fulfillment of a long-held dream.
Control and Independence: Homeownership brings a sense of control and independence. Homeowners have the freedom to make decisions about their property, from renovations and improvements to landscaping and design choices.
Long-Term Investment: Real estate has historically been a reliable long-term investment. Homeownership allows individuals to build wealth over time while enjoying the benefits of a place to call their own.
Emotional Well-being: Owning a home can contribute to emotional well-being and overall happiness. It provides a sense of security, pride, and a place to create lasting memories with loved ones.
Homeownership represents a significant part of the American dream, encapsulating aspirations for stability, financial security, personalization, and a sense of community. It symbolizes the pursuit of a better future, a place to call home, and the realization of one’s own piece of the American dream.
For more information, download Homeownership Today!
Over the last 60 years, the average sales price of homes has appreciated at a rate of 5.56% annually, according to the Federal Reserve Economic Data. During the same period, rent has increased at a rate of 3.88% annually which presents a compelling argument in favor of homeownership.
When the figures are analyzed, it becomes evident that homes have not only appreciated in value at a faster rate than the increase in rental costs, but they have also provided homeowners hedge against inflation and a substantial asset that builds equity over time.
In the report called “Building a Case for Homeownership Today!”, the reader will discover the real cost of homeownership is most likely less than they are paying in rent because of the two powerful dynamics of amortization and appreciation that are not currently working in their favor. As they continue to rent, the dynamics work in favor of their landlord.
The median homeowner has a net worth of $396,000 compared to approximately $10,400 for renters making the net worth of a homeowner 38 times the household wealth of a renter according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve Board Survey of Consumer Finance.
Another powerful comparison shows what is happening to the postponed buyer’s funds for down payment during the delay in purchasing. Even when the funds are invested in a certificate of deposit or in stocks, the increased proceeds are no where near what their equity would be had they been invested in a home.
Another revelation in this report puts mortgage rates in perspective. Instead of the anomaly the market has seen for the past 10 years and even more so, in the past three years, the average fixed-rate mortgage rate for the past 52 years is 7.74%; less than the current 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate.
The report also explains how homeowners can access their home’s equity for a variety of purposes like education, medical expenses, investment, business opportunities, or other causes.
An interesting opportunity for owner-occupants is that they can purchase a two-, three-, or four-unit property with a minimum down payment on FHA and conventional loans. The rent received on the investment units will be shown as income to help them qualify for the larger mortgage on a more expensive property.
In conclusion, the case for homeownership today extends far beyond the emotional and social dimensions�it’s a solid financial decision. While high interest rates, affordability concerns, and soaring home prices may seem daunting, it’s essential to recognize that the current environment still favors homebuyers.
Download the Building a Case for Homeownership Today! report either for yourself or for someone you know. After looking at it, schedule an appointment with us to look at the specifics of your situation and give you the information you need.
If you’ve made energy-efficient improvements to your home in the past year, you may qualify for the Residential Energy Efficiency Property Credit. This credit allows you to claim a percentage of the cost of qualifying energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and HVAC systems, up to certain limits. Not only do these upgrades help lower your utility bills, but they also contribute to a more sustainable future while providing tax savings.
Another valuable tax credit available to homeowners is the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit. This credit applies to the installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, geothermal heat pumps, and small wind turbines. Homeowners can claim a percentage of the cost of these systems as a credit on their federal income tax return, reducing their tax liability dollar for dollar.
For homeowners looking to make their homes more accessible and accommodating, the Disabled Access Credit can provide financial assistance. This credit covers a portion of the expenses incurred when making eligible improvements to accommodate individuals with disabilities, such as installing ramps, widening doorways, and modifying bathrooms. By taking advantage of this credit, homeowners can improve the livability of their homes while reducing their tax burden.
As a homeowner, understanding and leveraging these tax credits can lead to significant savings and benefits. They can not only reduce your tax liability but also enhance the financial rewards of homeownership in lower maintenance costs. Be sure to notify your tax professional about the expenditure so they can explore all available options and maximize your savings.
Imagine looking around your home and wondering how you can make it shine during those crucial showings. The answer is simple: staging! It’s a powerful tool that can transform your property and raise its appeal.
Your online listing photos serve as the initial showcase for potential buyers. Staging plays a crucial role in enhancing these images, making them more captivating and inviting. It sets the stage, quite literally, for a positive first impression. When buyers scroll through your listing, professionally staged rooms catch their eye, drawing them into the story your home tells.
Staging isn’t just about creating a visually pleasing environment; it’s about sparking an emotional connection. A well-staged home exudes warmth and welcome, making it easier for buyers to picture themselves living there. It’s a canvas upon which they can paint their own future, creating an emotional bond with the space that lingers long after the showing ends.
The numbers don’t lie. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 23% of buyer’s agents report that staging can increase the dollar value offered by 1-5% compared to non-staged homes. In essence, staging is an investment that yields a tangible return. It’s a strategic move to maximize your property’s market value and, ultimately, your selling price.
Staging has another subtle yet impactful benefit. It redirects attention away from any outdated or minor repair needs that you may not have had the resources to address before listing. Instead of fixating on imperfections, buyers are drawn to the positive aspects of your home. It’s about showcasing its potential and best features, ensuring they shine brightly.
To reap the full benefits of staging, timing is key. Ideally, it should be implemented before your home hits the market. The moment you decide to sell, consider reaching out to us. We can seamlessly incorporate staging into your selling timeline, ensuring your home stands out and captures the hearts of potential buyers right from the start. Don’t underestimate the impact of this transformative process�it’s the secret weapon in your arsenal to sell your home swiftly and at an optimal price.
Before diving into renovation projects, it’s important to understand which upgrades are likely to boost your home’s value and which ones may not yield a significant return on investment. While certain improvements can enhance your home’s appeal and attract potential buyers, others may fall short of expectations.
It’s prudent to explore examples of home improvements that have the potential to increase your home’s value, as well as situations where renovations may not have a substantial impact on its worth. By gaining insights into these factors, homeowners can make informed decisions and maximize their return on investment when upgrading their properties.
Home improvements that may increase the value of the home:
Hardwood floors … Refinishing or updating to wood floors have good appeal and have a high return on the cost.
Kitchen Remodel – Updating the kitchen with modern appliances, countertops, and fixtures can increase the home’s value by improving functionality and aesthetics.
Bathroom Update – Renovating bathrooms with new fixtures, tiles, and amenities can enhance the home’s appeal, especially if it increases the number of bathrooms or improves their condition.
Curb Appeal – Enhancing curb appeal through landscaping, exterior painting, or updating the front door can make a positive first impression and increase the home’s perceived value.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades – Adding energy-efficient features such as insulation, or windows can attract environmentally conscious buyers and reduce utility costs, thereby increasing the home’s value.
Open Floor Plan – Removing walls to create an open floor plan can improve the flow of the home and make it feel more spacious, which may appeal to modern homebuyers and increase value.
Home improvements that may not affect value significantly:
Over-Personalized Upgrades – Home improvements that are highly customized to the homeowner’s taste, such as extravagant or niche features, may not appeal to a broad range of buyers and may not recoup their cost.
Low-Quality Workmanship – Poor-quality renovations or DIY projects that are not executed professionally may detract from the home’s value rather than adding to it.
Excessive Upgrades – Spending too much on renovations relative to the home’s overall value for the neighborhood may not yield a commensurate increase in value.
Unpermitted Additions – Home improvements made without the necessary permits or that violate building codes may lead to complications during the selling process and may not add value to the home.
Overcapitalization – Investing in upgrades that exceed the anticipated resale value of the home for the neighborhood may result in diminishing returns and may not justify the expense.
While there are many powerful investment aspects of homeownership, not all the money spent on it will necessarily increase the value. If the cost of some renovations won’t be able to be recaptured in the sales price, homeowners should recognize that in advance of making them. If they decide to move forward, they must realize that it was done for personal convenience or enjoyment.
On the other hand, some improvements can satisfy convenience, enjoyment and return part or all the cost. The latest Remodeling Impact Report done by the National Association of REALTORS� and the National Association of Remodeling Industry can provide more insight into cost recovery.
Your real estate professional can provide guidance of a more specific nature.
Who wouldn’t want to reside in a beautiful neighborhood adorned with meticulously manicured lawns? While some homeowners relish the thought of working on their yards, others may not share the same enthusiasm. If you’ve ever contemplated the idea of installing artificial turf, also known as fake grass, as a part of your landscape, it’s essential to consider both its advantages and drawbacks.
Let’s Begin with the Advantages:
Modern advancements in artificial turf technology have rendered it nearly indistinguishable from real grass, offering an evergreen and perpetually lush appearance to your landscape.
One of the most significant perks of artificial turf is the elimination of the need for regular mowing and trimming. This translates to potential cost savings by reducing monthly expenses associated with professional yard maintenance.
Artificial lawns are highly durable and can endure for up to two decades with minimal upkeep.
Many manufacturers incorporate recycled materials like tires and plastic bottles into their synthetic grass, contributing to a reduction in your environmental footprint.
Artificial turf conserves water, requiring only periodic watering for surface cleaning. In regions with consistent rainfall, this may even become unnecessary, making it an ideal solution for drought-prone climates. Additionally, artificial grass eliminates the risk of groundwater pollution since it doesn’t require fertilizers. It also reduces air and noise pollution by eliminating the need for gas-powered lawnmowers and trimmers.
Now, Consider the Drawbacks:
Artificial grass can come with a substantial initial cost.
Being synthetic, it can absorb heat, potentially making it uncomfortably warm under bare feet in direct sunlight.
Accidental pet waste may pass through the turf, with solids being removable, but odors could linger. However, these odors can typically be eliminated using a vinegar and water solution.
Small debris that can’t be removed with a leaf blower, such as mulch chips and tiny branches, may require a specialized artificial grass sweeper or turf rake for thorough cleaning.
Before deciding on artificial turf for your yard, carefully weigh these pros and cons to determine if it aligns with your needs, preferences, and budget.
All information is dynamic and can change by the respective companies listed herein at ANYTIME. Use this guide as a reference point ONLY. We believe the information herein it is accurate but not guaranteed and may not be current as we are not able to update all information.
