SkyFive Properties Blog

The septic, drain, and sewer cleaning industry is currently worth $3.4 billion, and for good reason — most people have no idea how to clean their own drains!

If you’re part of this group, hiring drain cleaning experts to come to your home and take care of your sink or shower drain can help you save time and ensure the job is getting done correctly.

Of course, to enjoy the benefits that drain cleaning experts have to offer, you need to make sure you’re working with the right ones.

Read on to learn more about how to find the best drain cleaning professionals for your home.

Signs You Need Your Drain Cleaned

Not only do many people have no idea how to clean their drains, but they also have no idea how to tell if their drain needs cleaning.

Here are some common signs that you need to clean your drain:

• Water drains down it slower than usual
• It gets clogged on a regular basis
• It gurgles or makes other strange sounds
• There are bubbles in your sink
• A black residue is coming out of your shower drain
• You have flooding in your basement
• You can smell sewage
• Fruit and drain flies are buzzing around

If you notice any of these signs, there’s a good chance you need a drain cleaning expert to come over and take a look at things.

Why Hire Drain Cleaning Experts?

Why do you need to hire a drain cleaning expert? Why can’t you just troubleshoot the problem yourself?

In theory, you could try to fix the problem on your own. Do you know anything about plumbing or drain cleaning, though?

That’s what we thought.

Instead of trying to Google your way through the problem, why not bring in someone who’s trained to deal with clogged, dirty trains?

There are lots of perks that come with hiring a professional, including the following:

• Save time
• Get a superior clean
• Stay safe
• Avoid accidental plumbing damage
• Get access to the right tools
• Avoid harsh chemicals

Hiring a professional also allows you to get to the root of the issue. You won’t just get your drain cleaned and unclogged. You’ll find out why it was clogged in the first place.

All of these great benefits seem worth the price of hiring a professional, don’t they?

How to Choose the Best Drain Cleaning Experts

Clearly, there are benefits that come with hiring a professional to take care of your drain.

If you’re in the market for a drain cleaning expert, these seven tips will help you ensure you’re hiring the right person for the job.

1. Ask About Licensing and Insurance

First, make sure that the drain cleaning experts you’re considering are licensed to work with your state.

In most cases, in order to qualify for a license, the drain cleaner will have had to pass a standardized test and complete specific apprenticeship requirements. Make sure that the cleaner you’re considering has completed these pre-requisites and has the knowledge to work on your drain and get it fixed.

Remember, too, that licenses often come with insurance coverage. If a drain cleaner doesn’t have insurance, you could be held responsible for anything that goes wrong during the repair process.

2. Consider Their Experience

In addition to having the proper license and insurance coverage, your drain cleaner should have plenty of experience under their belt, too. Find out what kind of homes or apartments they typically work on and how long they’ve been practicing.

3. Request References

It never hurts to ask for references. Any good drain cleaner (or another service provider, for that matter) will have no problem with providing references and putting you in touch with past customers.

If someone you’re considering balks at the idea of providing references, that’s a major red flag.

Once you have a list of references from a cleaner, but sure to contact those references and find out what their experience was. Were they satisfied? Would they hire this person and their company again?

4. Look at Their List of Services

Before you spend too much time considering a particular drain cleaner, make sure they offer the services you need. Most cleaners will have a list of services available on their website. Check this to ensure they can handle the task you need them to address.

5. Consider the Cost

The cost of drain cleaning can vary quite a bit from person to person.

Ask the cleaner you’re considering for a free estimate to get an idea of what it will cost to clean your drain. Compare prices from a few different cleaners to see who will give you the best deal.

Remember, though, that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. If someone is charging a lot less than their competitors, there’s a chance they’ll provide subpar work.

6. Ask About Their Availability

If you’re excited about working with a particular drain cleaner and are ready to hire them, be sure to ask about their availability first.

You may be eager to visit these drain experts, but they might have a long waiting list.

Find out how soon they can get to your drain before you commit to hiring them.

7. Find Out if They Guarantee Their Work

Finally, make sure the cleaner you’re considering guarantees their work.

Will they come and fix the drain for free if something goes wrong within a certain period of time? Will they refund your money if it needs additional work?

Find out what kind of guarantee they offer before you sign any contracts.

Get Your Drain Cleaned Today

As you can see, there are plenty of benefits that come with hiring drain cleaning experts, as long as you’re working with trained and qualified professionals.

If you’ve noticed signs that your drain could use a professional cleaning, keep these tips in mind to ensure that only the best are working on your home.

Do you want to learn more about maintaining a home or apartment?

If so, we’ve got lots of helpful articles available on our site. Check out the maintenance articles today for more information and advice.

There’s nothing more exciting than renovating your home. After all, it is your chance to transform the space that you cherish by giving it a fresh new look that is both exciting and inviting.

One of the great things about a home renovation is the endless choices and amazing potential. In fact, there’s never been a better time to upgrade an interior than now.

If you’ve been searching for a new interior style to refresh your home, we are here to offer great design ideas.

In this article, we give examples of how you can use the industrial look to make the interior of your house the envy of your friends and neighbors. Keep reading to see 10 fabulous examples of cool industrial modern design.

1. Exposed Mechanical Details

One of the standout features of industrial-inspired interiors is the use of exposed mechanical details. This could include anything from lamps to ceiling fans, sink fixtures and door hinges to overhead light fixtures.

This is a great look that really adds depth and texture to the overall feel of the environment.

2. Use Expressive Artwork to Add Artistic Flair

Most of the time, artwork is added to the room as an accent to the decor. Yet it can also be utilized as the dominate decorating theme.

We encourage you to go big. Make the room itself a work of art, incorporating the walls, floors, ceilings, and doors into the canvas of your artistic creation.

3. Utilize Exposed Pipe

Never underestimate the aesthetic value of exposed pipe. It has tons of uses. In rooms with old iron pipes that are still in use in your home, don’t try to hide them. It’s a great look that is both classic industrial and contemporary.

You can also add fixtures and furnishings made of pipe. Bookshelves and other forms of shelving add a touch of class and warmth.

Exposed pipe is a great way to tie in other industrial features within your home. It’s a subtle decorative touch that makes a big statement without being overwhelming.

4. Make the Most of Black

Black is a great interior color regardless of your design scheme. This is especially true when you’re wanting to work with a cool industrial vibe. The great thing about black is it’s so versatile and never goes out of style.

Black is perfect for walls, the floor, furnishings, fixtures, and accent pieces. The options are absolutely limitless. And it allows you to pull back with small touches or go full throttle.

5. Exposed Brick

Exposed brick is one of the all-time great looks. It works with any style of home decor.

If you live in an old building, take advantage of the original brick surfaces that you might find hidden beneath drywall or wood paneling. There’s often a treasure trove of amazing brick hidden underneath.

Brick is timeless. Even if you decide to add brick to your home, manufacturers offer a wide range of products that will help you make the most of your industrial them.

6. Cement Plasters

Here is another super cool option for bringing a splash of industrial design into your space. Many homeowners are discovering high-quality cement plasters composites that look like polished concrete they can use as a material for floors or walls.

This material is composed of lime graded silica sand and admixtures. It helps achieve the look you want without the time and labor intensive work of using 100% cement.

The pre-mix dry powder substrate is formulated to maximize workability, durability, and adhesion. It’s available in a wide range of textures for both interior and exterior spaces.

The install process for cement plasters is relatively simple and works on both new and existing surfaces.

7. Maximize Repurposed Furnishings

Industrial design enables you to take advantage of a wide variety of aesthetic options. This includes the ability to combine old furnishes with new pieces. Repurposed furnishings provide a timeless look that is throwback yet enhances your contemporary vibe.

We encourage you to use weathered wood, distressed leather, and other materials that have actually gotten better with age.

Repurposed furnishings never go out of style. It’s always a matter of having a good eye for design and understanding how to mix and match. This is also a great way to save money by utilizing pieces you already own, or by shopping at swap meets and flea markets.

This is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a fresh look for your space that will blow your mind.

8. Weathered Wood

Wood is a classic look that brings a touch of the outdoors into your interior space. And the use of weathered wood helps to add texture and dimension. Weathered wood looks amazing with nearly anything, including iron, glass, exposed brick, and even cement surfaces.

The great thing about weathered and distressed wood is that it’s a material that has the look of something that’s been around and lived a life. After all, it was once a living thing. In other words, it has a soul.

9. Focus on Contemporary Yet Rustic

The industrial look is appealing because it works on different levels. It’s a blend of the old and new, the sophisticated and rustic, artistic and mechanical. So make the most of this blend and you’ll love the results.

10. Mix Your Materials and Textures

Again, industrial design is all about mixing the materials and textures that combine to create an eclectic space.

From metal to leather, exposed brick to glass, and vibrant colors to back surfaces. It all combines to create a look that is constantly evolving and never boring.

Tips for Achieving the Industrial Look for Your Home

The industrial look continues to grow in popularity. This isn’t surprising, considering it’s a great look that can evolve and expand as your tastes change.

Choosing the design scheme for your home is the perfect chance for you to express yourself. The look of industrial design is flexible, offering both warmth and endless creative possibilities.

Continue reading our blog for more insights.

Remodeling your bathroom is a great way to improve your home’s look and its value.

Do you want to know how to go about remodeling your bathroom yourself for less money? Just follow these ten helpful hints to make your bathroom beautiful!

1. Make Sure Your Bathroom Renovation Budget Is Realistic

While a custom tub and gilded faucets may be your dream, you should be aware of how much it will cost. An average bathroom remodel costs around $11,500 in the United States. A high-end remodeling job could cost you over $20,000 while a less ambitious project could still run you anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000.

You should also figure out how much of the work you can take on yourself. Many aspects of bathroom remodeling can easily be learned, but you don’t want to make a mistake with a power tool that you can’t fix. It is worth consulting with a professional to get a sense of both price and difficulty level for your dream bathroom remodeling job.

2. Go Antique for Bathroom Remodel Chic

If you have never gone antiquing for a home renovation project, it highly suggested for several reasons. If you are going for an older look or aesthetic, a thrift store or antique shop might be your ticket to bathroom bliss.

If you happen to be a true DIYer, you can easily buy reclaimed or antique wood to help give your bathroom remodel a unique look. Older furniture and vanities can be made into purpose-built bathroom furniture and even sinks.

3. Make Sure You Have Everything the First Time

Rather than getting everything for your bathroom remodel as needed, you should make a complete list and have everything on hand. If you are unable to put your bathroom back together with what you have, what’s the point in ripping it apart?

Avoid this mistake will save you time and money. It will also make sure your bathroom is out of commission for as little time as possible.

4. Consider Quality Over Cheaping Out

If your bathroom needs something to help make it stand out, consider investing in a showpiece like a custom countertop or unique showerhead. It is also worth noting that less expensive bathroom fixtures need to be replaced more quickly. If you have money left over for something nice, spend it on something that you love, and you won’t be disappointed.

5. Consider If You Need a Full Remodel at All

It can be frustrating to dislike the room that all of us spend our time in out of necessity. Before tearing up the whole room, you should consider how much work needs to be done. Simply upgrading your faucets or lighting can make a large difference in a bathroom’s appearance.

If the tile is what you don’t like, that can be a relatively cheap and easy way to make your bathroom look brand new. Rather than buying a whole new toilet, consider replacing the seat or lid to change its appearance for the better.

6. Make Your Own Custom DIY Shelving or Mirror

While a fancy mirror can make a bathroom remodel pop, did you know you can easily make your own? You simply need some molding for the frame and some professional-grade mirrored glass. You’ll end up with a custom mirror for a fraction of the cost that all your guests will envy.

Shelving is one of the easiest DIY projects for beginners to construct. All you need is some scrap or reclaimed lumber, a circular saw and some screws or nails. For pennies on the dollar, you can fully upgrade your bathroom storage to meet your needs.

7. When in Doubt, Use the Right Grout

One of the simplest yet most often overlooked aspect of bathroom remodels is making sure you use the correct grout in the right places. Grout is quite literally the glue that holds your bathroom together and can cause you many headaches if used incorrectly. For example, cement-based grout is only good for use in dry areas and will crumble if used on showers or baths.

Another thing to consider is how much you care about the grout’s appearance. As with clothing, white grout will be much more easily stained and discolored. Consider using colored grout if you want to avoid this issue for your bathroom remodel.

8. Know When to Call in the Professionals

If your bathroom remodel ideas call for relocating electrical outlets or the plumbing itself, make sure you know what you’re doing. If you just start cutting away without the right knowledge, you could cause thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs.

You do not want to mess around with water lines or electrical wires unless you know what you are doing. No remodeling job is worth getting electrocuted or causing a flood over.

9. Paint Your Way to a Better Bathroom

As the saying goes, sometimes all you need is a new coat of paint. Before committing to a full bathroom remodel, it is worth painting the room first and then seeing what needs to be done. Of the various remodeling tasks that you can take on yourself, painting is one of the cheapest and easiest to do.

You will be surprised how much better your bathroom looks. Painting can also help you establish a baseline to see what other improvements need to be made if any. You might end up surprised with how different your freshly painted bathroom appears.

10. Consider Alternatives to Tiles

While a tiled bathroom is a thing of beauty, it is also very costly to accomplish. Rather than covering every wall with ceramic or porcelain, consider using wainscoting, which is much easier and cheaper to install yourself. For replacing your flooring, modern vinyl tiling or beadboard can make a beautiful substitute at a fraction of the cost of tiling.

Make Your Bathroom Remodel Easy and Affordable

Starting a bathroom remodel can greatly improve the value of your home or rental property as well as your overall happiness.

Much of the work can be done yourself, but you should always recognize when you need professional help. Keep checking back for more home remodel ideas!

Aside from aesthetics, people generally don’t think twice about the type of flooring they put into their homes. However, it’s time we do. It’s time we start looking at eco-friendly flooring.

Every year, Americans dump roughly 5 billion pounds of carpet into landfills. Considering most carpeting is made from synthetic, nonsustainable fibers, this creates a 5 billion pound problem.

Additionally, while it may seem like a status symbol to use rare, elegant hardwoods in your home, it’s only a status symbol because they’re expensive. The reason they’re expensive, unfortunately, is because they’re rare.

However, along with saving the planet one floor-plank at a time, eco-friendly flooring boasts a ton of benefits.

Take a look!

Limitless Options

There are so many eco-friendly flooring options, it’s impossible not to find something you like. From metal tiles to corkboard flooring, your options are nearly unlimited.

For example, Empire Carpet and Flooring offers a wide variety of affordable eco-friendly flooring options and can be found in nearly every state! Find other Empire Flooring locations here!

Cork

Cork is an amazing, natural renewable resource that comes from cork oak trees. Most of the cork harvested comes from Portugal, where environmentally conscious laws protect them.

Additionally, cork oak trees are unique in that their bark can be pulled off in layers to harvest cork, yet regenerate over time. This means cork oak trees can yield a harvest time and time again without being cut down.

Cork is both hypoallergenic and an excellent fire-resistant insulator.

Recycled Glass Tiles

Mosaic tiles have been around for as long as we can remember, made famous by landmark buildings such as St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

However, as environmentally conscious folks look for more eco-friendly flooring options, recycled mosaic tiles have made a huge reappearance.

Because most recycled glass tiles are made small, it creates a great opportunity to be creative and artistic with your floors. You can keep it simple with one or two basic colors, or create geometric shapes and patterns.

Eco-Friendly Carpet

As we mentioned above, America has a 5 billion pound carpet problem each year, accounting for a large percentage of landfill waste.

However, many people, even green-enthusiasts really appreciate the warm, cozy feel of a well-carpeted home. No worries, eco-friendly flooring has an answer.

Wool carpet is a well-insulated, fire-resistant, and hypoallergenic option for carpet lovers everywhere. Unless they’re allergic to wool, that is.

Alternatively, if you like using recycled materials to slowly save the world, consider PET carpet. PET doesn’t actually have anything to do with pets, it actually stands for polyethylene terephthalate, better know as polyester fiber.

Pet carpeting is an eco-friendly flooring option produced from recycled plastic bottles. However, some companies use some recycled materials while others use 100% recycled materials for their PET carpet.

Bamboo

Bamboo is an awesome, rapidly renewable resource. During harvesting, only the bamboo stalk is cut down, so it immediately begins regrowth. Additionally, bamboo shoots only take three years of growth to be ready for harvest, whereas hardwoods can take more than 25 years.

However, bamboo is a great example of when a good thing turns bad because big corporations get involved. Big bamboo companies have begun producing large crops in an environmentally unconscious way, partaking in deforestation and the heavy use of toxic chemicals.

A bamboo is still a great option, just ensure you’re getting it from a reliable green source.

Eco-Friendly Hardwoods

Sustainably harvested hardwood may sound like a paradoxical statement, but it is possible.

Certain hardwood floors are green-certified, regulated through the Forest Steward Council. They are harvested in a way that has little impact on the environment and the people in the area in which they are harvested.

Natural Stone

Natural stone floors are beautiful, elegant, and wildly sustainable. They are also incredibly durable and long-lasting, coming in a multitude of seemingly endless sources, such as marble, limestone, sandstone, slate, and granite.

Eco-friendly flooring, such as natural stone tiles only have one real impact on the environment, and that’s transportation. Otherwise, the planet is naturally reproducing stone through tectonic movement all the time, and there is no shortage of stone to speak of.

Reclaimed Hardwood

Reclaimed hardwood is kind of a no-brainer. First, you’re recycling wood that’s already been cut down, rather than impacting more trees. Secondly, reclaimed wood is super trendy right now. It offers a rustic and warm appeal to floors, furniture, and decor.

Finally, reclaimed hardwood is a type of eco-friendly flooring that lends itself quite easily to the DIYers out there.

Just make sure you’re using an eco-friendly finish!

Why Eco-Friendly Flooring is Important

It’s easy to distance ourselves when buying flooring, taking extra long showers, or using an excess of plastics every day. We think “it won’t make that big of a difference.”

Unfortunately, because the vast majority of people have that same mentality, it does make a big difference, but in the wrong direction. Environmentally conscious choices, such as eco-friendly flooring is the only way to move into the future.

Without a global change in the way we live and operate as an international society, we will absolutely lose our planet. There is ample, undeniable evidence we have been placing on the backburner for far too long.

Choosing eco-friendly flooring helps us protect our environment in several ways.

Slowing Deforestation

First, it helps us slow the astronomical rate of deforestation. Deforestation is the perpetual eradication of forests to make room for other purposes.

As you’re reading this, the equivalent of 27 soccer fields a minute of forests is being permanently destroyed.

Using Less Toxic Chemicals

Secondly, mainstream flooring companies use a myriad of engineered chemicals that are toxic to our planet and our health.

Using eco-friendly flooring companies can help protect our planet and your family from any adverse side effects.

Using Less Unrenewable Resources

Finally, eco-friendly flooring helps us slow down the rate of unrenewable resource usage. The more people who begin to go green, the more big-name corporations will be forced to do the same.

It’s simple, businesses exist to make a profit. People do unspeakable things in the name of money. Slowly killing our planet is just a cost of doing business for them.

When it’s no longer financially prudent to be indifferent, the whole world will be able to go green. Until then, nothing will change.

Do Your Part

The next time you’re remodeling your home, choose an eco-friendly flooring option. If it costs a little more money, rest easy knowing you’re doing your part and being environmentally conscious.

Additionally, look for ways to save water, energy, and resources in everyday life.

We’re running out of time to change it around, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference!

When it comes to construction or property building, you need reliable equipment, such as a mini excavator track to get the job done. While it is best to buy new construction equipment, the up-front costs can be hard on your budget, so you might resort to buying used heavy equipment. Whether you decide to buy a new or used heavy equipment, it’s crucial to ensure that it is always in good running condition. But what are the heavy equipment you need for a successful property building project? Find out more by reading below.

Mini Excavator

With any demolition or digging work, you’ll need fast and reliable equipment like a mini excavator or compact excavator. When buying a used mini excavator, you need to check for substantial dents, cracks, and bends, which are signs of neglected maintenance or a potential problem. These signs may indicate that the machine is worn and has been compromised.

Here are the things you need to look for when checking for signs of wear and tear when buying a used mini excavator:

• Inspect the connection points of the boom, stick, and bucket, and make sure that these parts are solid and don’t move or give out.
• Loose pins and bushings mean lack of care and lubrication, which lowers the accuracy of the stick position and the actual bucket placement.
• Cracks present around the connection points can be dangerous.
• Pay close attention to a half-moon shape or scalloping between the bucket teeth, which can severely impact its cutting force.
• Bending of the bucket means that your mini excavator track is being used beyond its capacity, which could compromise or damage your machine.

Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions or manual regarding the things your mini excavator can or cannot handle to avoid these issues from happening. Compared to steel tracks, rubber tracks for excavators are highly recommended by experts.

Dumpers

Dumpers are mainly used for  property building and construction sites to transport different loose materials like gravel, sand, and earth. There are different types of dumpers, and tracked dumpers provide better control and traction than others, suitable for steep inclines or terrains with muddy, wet ground.

Bulldozers

A bulldozer, also called dozer, is a continuous tracked tractor or crawler equipped with a blade or substantial metal plate used to push large quantities of sand, soil,  rubble, or other materials during construction. It is equipped with a claw-like device or ripper at the back to loosen dense and compact materials.

Here are some good-to-know facts about bulldozers:

• The wide tracks of bulldozers provide excellent ground holding and mobility when working in very rough terrain. The weight of the equipment is adequately distributed to prevent sinking in muddy or sandy ground.
• Bulldozers are equipped with transmission systems, providing an excellent tracking job and tract force.
• Bulldozers are used in construction, road building, and infrastructure development, as well as mining, forestry, and land clearing.

Dragline Excavator

This is a piece of heavy equipment used in property building for larger depth excavations, most especially for building a luxury property with an underground pool or amusement area in the basement. A dragline excavator consists of a digging bucket and long length boom suspended from the boom with the use of a cable. It is used for constructing ports, underwater excavations, and sediment removal, among others.

Backhoe

Backhoe is a common type of excavator seen in almost any property building site. Backhoes are generally used in small to moderate operations, such as constructions and foundation building. The use of backhoe is widely applied to various construction operations and not just specific to excavation. The cab easily rotates to 360 degrees to load excavated materials and transport these materials on dump trucks. Backhoes are also used to excavate soil in mining sites and load wastes in dumpsites. Also, a backhoe can be used to drag collapsed ice, soil, or other debris away from houses and roads.

When buying a used backhoe, remember that mechanical problems may arise due to wear and tear, needing repair or new parts replacement. That’s why proper visual inspection is crucial to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Also, it’s essential to operate a backhoe following the right techniques for safety.

Here are the signs of mechanical problems you need to look out for when buying a used backhoe:

• Cracks or uneven wear: These signs could mean deeper mechanical problems that are expensive to repair.
• Hydraulic leaks: Check the fluid or any leak behind the sprocket and final drive seals, which is a sign of wear. The teeth should not be pointed, but flat.
• Rust and large dents on the undercarriage: These signs mean poor maintenance and indicate abuse. Because the undercarriage is crucial to the overall proper operation of your compact excavator, it shouldn’t show any signs of uneven or excessive wear. Take good care of your undercarriage because it is about 50% of the overall maintenance cost of mini excavators.
• Cracked lines or worn belts on the engine: These signs of neglect are expensive to repair, most especially leaks, so always take time to inspect for leaks on top of your engine. Soot may accumulate due to a major engine overhaul. The presence of dark and thick engine oil is usually caused by poor maintenance. Another sign of wear is battery corrosion, so you might consider getting a replacement.

Trenchers

A trencher is a type of construction equipment mainly used for digging trenches, laying cables or pipelines, or for drainage. There are different types of trenchers, from walk-behind models, to models with attachments for a tractor or Skid Loader. Trenchers come in various sizes and digging implements, which depend on the hardness of the surface and required depth and width of the trench.

Conclusion

When you’re into property building or the construction business, you need to invest in reliable, durable, and dependable heavy equipment to get the job done fast and easy. It’s important to check your building equipment regularly because preventive maintenance staves off costly repairs and parts replacements. It’s best to invest in high-quality heavy equipment and replacement parts, like rubber tracks for excavators, to save time, money, and effort.

A home should be a haven, where we spend more than half of our life. Taking a vacation to relax in a cozy place doesn’t always mean that you need to set off on a destination to a foreign country. There is a lot you can do to enjoy your space at home, but first, you must make some adjustments.

Most homes are relatively comfortable, but with the addition of a few things, the place can transition into this paradise that everyone wants to go to. The best place to begin is to think of any creative ways you can make good use of what you have, and with incorporating some new furniture, fun elements, and thoughtful design, you can get your home to the level you want it to be.

However, a pretty common concern in home improvements is how to utilize available space more efficiently. For this, you should look for the upgrades that occupy less space and are still convenient as the normal ones, such as the arc-122dhp a portable AC and heater, that can be placed anywhere near a window and when you are not using it, it can easily fit into a storage closet.  Here are some more home improvement ideas like this to get you started:

Establish your entertaining zones

Your house can be what you want it to be, but you cannot change your entire space. Identify some spaces in your home that you want to maximize your leisure time on. For this one, consider both your indoors and your outdoors.

Add color to create movement

You can trick your brain into thinking differently in the way you use colors. As your eyes meet up with different colors in a space, the brain deduces different meanings. Your brain can even be tricked to think that you are in a large space when it is not so much the case. Remember, the idea is to create some form of movement with the colors. Therefore, consider a collection of different flowers in colorful containers, or decorative pillows on the seating, to introduce a pop of color in a too often dull room.

Bring nature inside

Without a doubt, nature has a way of easing things up and livening a room. Since plants can help calm you down, introduce some in your house. Go for low-maintenance plants like succulents, and go as green as possible. Other than that, try some green, earthy, and other natural patterns on different surfaces.

Change your Lighting

As you install the best appliances in your home, don’t forget that lighting is also an important element of your home. It plays a significant role in making a room feel and look better than it is. If you do not have the advantage of natural lighting, consider changing that. Go for larger windows that are strategic to incorporate light into different angles in your house.

While at it, change the artificial lighting you have. Some can beam down too brightly and make you uncomfortable, while some too dim. Increase the light in your house by going for task lamps like desk lamps, floor lamps, and table lamps. You can also add some beautiful outdoor lighting with strips of hidden LED lights, pendant lights or outdoor lanterns for an extra charm to your dream home.

A Little Paint Goes a Long Way

You can completely update the look of a room with paint. Fresh paint will bring in more perspective and liven up your room a great deal. Choose modern colors and opt for low-VOC paint, which is more eco-friendly, especially for spaces like the kitchen or the dining area.

Capitalize on all the space you have

You may have a full house and therefore not have the advantage of too much space. However, some spaces in your house can be turned into something great. For one, your basement could be improved and transition into an extra living room or game room. You can create thins as your ideal escapee. All you need are some few equipment and furniture to go with your idea and some colors to tie everything together. Other than that, consider the attic space which can also be a playroom, craft room, or game room.

Do you feel like you have a beautiful home that isn’t getting enough attention from buyers? Is there something you’re missing when it comes to getting your house ready to sell?

Home preparations usually consist of deep cleaning and basic repairs. What else should you be doing to guarantee a sale? Keep reading to learn the top five tasks that are often forgotten when preparing a home for sale.

1. Light It Up

Making your home ready to sell means making it presentable. Above that, you need to make your home desirable. What better way to do that then to increase the lighting?

Here’s how to get your house ready to sell:

• Replace all light bulbs with new, bright ones
• Open any curtains to draw in natural light
• Consider doing a little landscaping to ensure bushes aren’t covering any windows

Another tip that can help light up your home is to replace any old windows. These tips will all brighten up your home, which makes it appear more inviting for buyers.

2. Set the Stage

If you’re wondering how to get a house ready to sell quickly, then you need to learn about setting the stage.

A buyer is much more likely to buy a home that they can imagine living in. That means a blank, empty house likely won’t attract anyone’s attention. Consider renting furniture and staging your home instead.

3. Don’t Neglect the Outdoors

When someone pulls up to your property, you want them to have the best possible first impression. That means a little landscaping is one of the things to do before putting your house on the market.

What should you do to get your house ready to sell? Mow the lawn, remove any clutter, and add some fresh plants. A few outdoor household improvements will go a long way.

4. Getting Your House Ready to Sell by Cleaning the Roof

Landscaping isn’t your only concern when it comes to the outdoors. Potential buyers get their first impression from the outside of your house. If the roof and siding looks dirty, then it’ll be a hard sell.

What should you do to get your house ready to sell? Consider having someone clean your roof and siding.

The average Roof Cleaning Cost isn’t much, and your house will look a whole lot better for it.

5. Consider Asking for an Agent’s Advice

Have you tried all the above methods and still continue to fall short of your goal? Have you searched ‘putting house on market’ online and still failed to get guidance?

If this describes your situation, then it might be time to ask a real estate agent for help. Keep in mind that 9 out of 10 homeowners used agents to sell their homes in 2017.

Get That House on the Market!

Once you’ve checked off all the items on this list, you should be well on your way to getting your house ready to sell. Now, get prepared to deal with the viewings, paperwork, and ultimate closure of the deal.

Are you interested in working with a proven real estate company to sell your home? Reach out to our CEO, Kaya Wittenburg, at (305) 357-0635 now for more information about how we can help.

Purchasing a new home isn’t as simple as signing a contract and handing in a down payment. There are a lot of steps in the process—one of which is going through a home inspection.

If you’re a first-time home buyer, you may not be familiar with the process of home inspection. But don’t worry! It’s easier than you might think.

Keep reading to learn about the process of home inspection and how you can prepare for it.

What To Expect from a Home Inspection

A home inspection appointment will typically take between two and four hours, depending on the size of the house you’re looking at.

Even if you’re given the option not to, it’s best to attend the inspection of a house you’re looking to purchase. This can give you some valuable insight into the property that you might not get from the report by itself. It also gives you the chance to ask the inspector any specific questions you might have.

What Does a Home Inspector Look For?

Home inspectors are very thorough and cover most things that could affect your health and safety, but they don’t consider every possible detail. They’ll look for:

• Damage to windows and doors
• Clearly visible mold and mildew
• Dampness, flooding, or water damage
• Clearly visible dry rot
• Plumbing problems and leaks
• Dangerous or outdated electrical wiring
• Heating and cooling system function
• Damage to the structure and foundation
• Holes or damage in the roof and chimney
• Safety features like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

A home inspector will also take a thorough look at the attic, basement, and garage. Once their examination is complete, they’ll write up a formal report detailing their findings.

What Isn’t Included In a New Home Inspection?

Every state has its own rules and regulations for home inspectors. But generally speaking, they’re only allowed to check things they can see without moving the current resident’s furniture, so they aren’t going to go through and test every outlet or check for scratches behind every chair. They also won’t go through and check the pool or other yard fixtures for functionality.

They’re also not allowed to make definitive claims on certain problems that require a specialist’s inspection. These things include termites and other pests, radon gas levels, asbestos, lead paint, and toxic mold. If there are signs of these things in the house, the inspector will note that there is “evidence” of them on their report and recommend you call in the appropriate specialist.

Preparing for a New Home Inspection

When your new home inspection is complete, you’ll be left with a report detailing areas of potential concern, but it’s up to you to decide which ones could make or break a sale. To prepare for the inspection, make a list of deal breakers and things that you’re willing to put the time and money into fixing.

If you’re looking to buy a house or condo in the Miami, FL area, take a look at the ones listed at Sky Five Properties. Our expert team will work with you to find a dream house that can pass even the toughest of new home inspections.

There’s nothing worse than a leaky roof. Especially as seasons change, bringing more rain.

A leaky roof can lead to rot and decay, as well as mold inside your home.

The key to keeping rain out of your house is to replace your roof before things get out of control. But how can you know when it’s time to replace your roof? You’ve come to the right place for answers.

In this article, we take a look at 5 signs that you need new roofing. So keep reading to learn how to identify when it’s time to pull the trigger and invest in improving your home.

1. Damaged or Missing Shingles

This is one of the most obvious signs of bad roofing. Missing or damaged shingles let you know that it’s time to get up there and take a look at what’s going on. This is especially true if you live in an area that experiences high winds and other inclement weather on a regular basis.

After all, shingles can only sustain so much abuse before they begin to tear, warp, and completely blow away.

2. Water Damage Inside the House

It’s important to keep an eye on your ceilings. If you begin noticing dark spots appearing on the ceiling, this is evidence of bad news. The key is to act quickly. Inspect your roof for signs of damage. Because when there is a problem with shingles, moisture will leak beneath the roofing and do damage to the interior of the house.

3. Signs of Interior and Exterior Rot

Water damage can often be subtle. For example, you might not notice dark spots forming on the ceiling of your home, but that doesn’t mean that moisture isn’t causing serious problems.

A leaking roof can allow water to reach the structural support system for your roof, such as the trusts and rafters, as well as other structural parts of your home like wall studs. So be sure to look for evidence of rotting woods, rotting drywall, damage to kitchen cabinets, and rotting trim on the outside of your home.

4. Visible Evidence of Moss, Mold, and Fungi

Another sign of a bad roof is when vegetation is growing in places where it shouldn’t be growing. Nasty growth such as moss, mold, and fungi is obvious evidence that repairs need to be made quickly.

5. Be Aware of the Age of Your Roof

The simple truth is that a roof isn’t intended to last forever. The life expectancy of the average asphalt shingle roof is between 20 and 25 years. So when your roof reaches the 20 years mark it’s time to give serious thought to investing in a new one.

Signs that It’s Time to Replace Your Roofing

Keep in mind that being proactive is the best way to prevent water damage in your home. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye on your roofing. After all, it will much cheaper to replace your roof than to have to pay for major repairs inside your house later on.

Click here to see 5 reasons to consider replacing old windows before listing your home for sale.

While they’re coming back in style, older homes aren’t without their issues.

Are you thinking about putting yours on the market? Before you meet with an agent, it’s smart to make a few repairs and upgrades, first.

From ripping up worn carpet to replacing your cracked linoleum flooring, there are plenty of ways to spruce your place up on a dime.

Yet, instead of spinning your wheels on weekend projects, prioritize a simple one that makes a huge impact: replacing old windows!

Today, we’re sharing a few reasons why this is a wise move, and how it can up your earning potential when you decide to list. Ready to learn more? Let’s go!

1. To Boost Energy-Efficiency

Chances are, your outdated windows aren’t doing you any favors when it comes to your utility bill. They aren’t helping the environment, either.

When you install newer windows, especially Energy Star ones, you could save more than $450 per year! You’ll also help your home hold in air and heat better, which reduces strain on your HVAC system and lowers your home’s carbon emissions.

2. To Improve Your Home’s Value

Did you know that if you spend $10,000 on new windows for your home, you can add $8,500 to your overall listing price? That’s an 85% ROI!

Go ahead and make the move, then rake in the money when it’s time to close. The new homeowners aren’t the only ones who will reap the benefits of this decision.

3. To Better Insulate

Does your home stay a little drafty in the winter and sticky in the summer? It doesn’t have to be this way.

This is likely the result of air loss.

Over time, homes settle. This creates small cracks and openings in various spots where air can seep out. While doorways, attics and crawl spaces are common culprits, you can also lose air through your windows.

Install new ones and reseal around them to make sure your home stays comfortable for its next inhabitants.

4. To Add Curb Appeal

Most buyers will decide how they feel about your home before they step a foot inside. Are your windows helping or hurting that first impression?

If yours are full of cracked screens, damaged panes, bent blinds and more, you could turn prospects away from the onset.

Shiny new windows, on the other hand? They impress immediately. You can find models that fit your need and budget online, at resources including Bill Butters Windows.

5. To Enhance Security

As smart homes get smarter, today’s homebuyers expect properties to include the latest and greatest gadgets.

One area in which they’re focusing their attention is home security. Yours could feature a state-of-the-art alarm system, but if your windows are old, the home is at risk.

New models offer better protection against intruders. They also feature more flexible film technology that helps prevent injury in the event of a collision.

Replacing Old Windows Makes Sense for Sellers

Selling your home is a process that can be wrought with stress. Don’t add to the headache by leaving your outdated windows intact.

Doing so can lead to a million buyer questions and requests for repair. By replacing old windows in the beginning, you can alleviate any concerns. You’ll also have one more feature to add to your listing.

Need help navigating the buying and selling process? That’s where we come in.

As Florida’s premier commercial and residential real estate firm, we’ll help you find your next dream home with ease!