This regularly-scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Adam Gallegos of Arlington-based real estate firm Arbour Realty, voted one of Arlington Magazine’s Best Realtors of 2013 & 2014. Please submit your questions via email.
Q. What can we do keep in mind as new homeowners to maintain the value of the property? Are there things we should be thinking about twice? I’m just trying to be proactive now rather than looking back and wishing I had done XYZ, if you know what I mean?
Maintenance is the No. 1 thing that comes to mind. As a homeowner, you are tasked with a myriad of new responsibilities. Keeping up with these tasks will extend the useful life of systems and materials in your home. It will also help you avoid expensive surprises. Below are the Top 10 maintenance items I often see get neglected:
- Once or twice yearly servicing of heating and air-conditioning systems
- Replacing HVAC filters as directed by the filter manufactures
- Cleaning and staining of deck
- Regular painting of all exterior trim
- Regular painting or staining of wood exterior doors and wood garage doors
- Sealing of granite or other natural stone countertops
- Winterization of outdoor hose bibs
- As-needed cleaning of gutters
- As-needed trimming of trees and shrubs around the home
- Maintaining proper water diversion away from home and retaining walls
Be sure to keep all your receipts so you can show potential homebuyers how well you have maintained the home. If you decide to make improvements to your home, I highly recommend working with contractors licensed to do the work you need them to perform.
You’ll also want to make sure that they are pulling and completing any permits required by Arlington County. Again, keep all of the paperwork for your records. If you are thinking about upgrading your home, I recommend doing so in time for you to enjoy it. Not just to sell the home. Even though the return on investment may justify the cost to upgrade, part of the value is your ability to enjoy it.
The views and opinions expressed in the column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARLnow.com.
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For Immediate Release
Progress for All Announces Inaugural Black Men Vote Virtual Town Hall
Date: April 19, 2024
Contact: Marc M. M. Peters
The Award is available to recent high school graduates and non-traditional students (see the application for more details). Each recipient may be awarded up to $20,000. Applicants are required to submit an online application form as well as a short video application.
The applicant must be an Arlington resident pursuing a career or technical education accredited program, within a high-growth career, that will be completed within two years.
The careers and programs include, but are not limited to:
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Audio, Video, and Sound Engineering Technicians
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Broadcast Technicians
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Commercial Drivers
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Culinary Arts
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Early Childcare Education
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Healthcare
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Information Technology and Computer Science
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Manufacturing and Skilled Trades (including welding, auto and aviation mechanics and technicians)
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Public Safety
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Financial preparation is key when thinking about purchasing your first home and the first step to getting pre-approved. Join ACFCU for
Sweeney Todd
A victim of a gross injustice that robbed him of his wife and child, Sweeney Todd sets about exacting a terrible revenge on society.
