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Home Samantha Gauld

Samantha Gauld

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Buying a Condominium Lifestyle

04-13-11
Samantha Gauld

CONDOMINIUMS

Want to own a home but don't want the maintenance responsibility? Or maybe you travel a lot? Either way, owning a condominium is a great option. You need an agent experienced with condos to make sure that before you buy, proceed with caution and knowledge. As your buyer agent, I will ask for the condo budget, a history of fees and assessments, covenants & regulations, what is common area vs. limited common area, etc., all of which you need to review and approve to ensure no surprises after closing! Call me today to start looking for your condo home!
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What To Look For When Buying An Antique Home

04-10-11
Samantha Gauld
When buying an antique home, there are many things to look for. Usually, antique homes have stone foundations with dirt floors. The stone foundations can seep water which will contribute to wood rot. Make sure there is no wood to dirt contact anywhere along the foundation. If the basement is unusually damp, there could be signs of beam and sill damage. If there is no vent, make sure there is a way to add one or more to keep air circulating throughout the basement. Also, don’t be surprised if the heating system is still forced hot steam via multiple radiators. Check the piping to make sure there is no asbestos present. Also, ask if there are any underground storage tanks. Does the property have old galvanized or lead pipes? How many layers of shingles are on the roof? When you look at the roof, are there areas that sag? If so, the decking needs to be replaced. Check the interior ceilings for signs of water damage from leaks. As the greatest heat loss is through doors and windows, check the efficiency of both. Are there storms doors and windows? Are the attic, walls and floors insulated? Often you will find antique homes have horsehair insulation. Set a marble on the floors to see if there is significant settling in any area of the home; if so there may be a compromised sill. If the walls are still the original plaster on lathe, check for significant cracks around door and window framing which indicate settling. Antique homes are very special and require a discerning eye when evaluating the condition before purchase. When buying an old home, make sure you employ the professional assistance of a Real Estate Agent who has significant experience with Antique and Historic Properties…someone like me!
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