Questions & Advice
We field a wide array of questions in our business. Here are some topics that we typically
can advise you on or be of service to you. For some topics, we can refer you to recognized
professionals as needed. Seller mandatory disclosure items included.
Topics:Property Values- we provide a detailed discussion of property values in our area.Home Improvement projects-what do they cost-what dollar return do I getFinished Basements- We discuss ratio of value for below grade finished spacePools & Patios- Some pools actually detract from value. It’s best to know which.Decks and Screen Rooms- Great accessory space but watch the costs.Bathrooms- Money spent on dated or tired bathrooms usually pays offCountertops- Is granite still in or has concrete counters taken over ??Radiant Heat- Efficient yes, but, remember to factor in extra electricity on costs.Foam Insulation: Closed cell vs. Open cell. Closed is better but more expensiveSump Pumps- Mold source-sure. Sometimes a full sub-slab system works best...Wood stoves- don’t void your insurance by not having them inspected by Fire Dept.Radon Tests- simple talk about radon- 2nd leading cause of lung cancer after cigarettesWetlands barriers- Dump grass clippings or fill in the buffer area at your own peril...Fuses vs Circuit Breakers- worth the cost of upgrading for convenience/ re-sale??Mold: Huge topic lately, discussion of the no-no’s on moldBathroom vent fans- If they vent into the attic you could have a $6K mold jobCaulking/ Grouting- Simple and inexpensive to do- product life vs. price...Clogged Gutters- Not the leading cause of ice damning but a contributor...Energy Saver Tips-we discuss ways to reduce your energy consumptionPets- does having a pet detract from value??Garage storage- Simple organization tips to make life easier.Septic Systems- Discussion of the sellers responsibility when selling.Underground Fuel Storage Tanks- huge action item if you have one.Floor vents to lower level- these are code violations now-full discussionCopper Pipe vs Pex: New plumbing products discussed- costs, benefits.Chimney Sweep- Money well spent- ever experience a chimney fire before??Heated Driveways- Nice to have- a separate system is recommended for costs.Window Safety- which lower windows must be tempered glass by code.Basement Insulation- why 80% of homeowners install it backwards. Disclaimer: We are professional Realtors and Bob Marquedant is also a fully licensed construction supervisor in MA capable of building up to 30,000 cubic foot buildings. We address a range of topics in our day to day work and recommend professionals with particular areas of expertise and licensure in many of the above topics if needed. Have questions about a facet of your property-land, buildings, property rights, give us a call at (508) 435-4009 Cell: (508) 341-5630 Toll Free: (866) 336-BOBMEmail: Bob@HopkintonRealty.com |
