May 2006
Volume 9 Issue 5
INSPECTION TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS 
Experts suggest getting a home inspection every 10 years. The inspection can serve as a home maintenance guide and identify any problems that have surfaced since your previous inspection. If you are planning to sell, you have an opportunity to make necessary repairs before putting the house on the market.
Hire an experienced and professionally trained inspector and ask about their credentials. Many inspectors belong to a professional association, such as National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) or the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), and adhere to a code of ethics and industry standards for home inspections.
Review sample inspection reports from several firms. Make sure the report is easy to understand and provides a clear explanation of the inspector’s findings. Ask questions throughout the inspection to learn as much as possible about the home. Knowing that your home is in good health can bring peace of mind.
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2006 Risa's "Thank You for Being my Client" party pics are up and GREAT. Visit them by clicking here
Hope to see you next year at THE PARTY!
Reduce Flood Damage in Your Home
April showers may bring May flowers, but too much rain can flood your home. To minimize flood damage, insurance experts suggest the following preventive measures.
• Know your flood risk. A flood map from your local building department can show the projected flood elevation in your neighborhood and how much water could enter your home.
• Get flood insurance. Many homeowners’ policies do not cover flood damage, so a separate policy for flood insurance is necessary.
• Consult with a licensed electrician about elevating electrical wiring equipment, such as fuse boxes, outlets and light sockets, at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation in your home.
• Install a backflow valve to prevent sewage from backing up into your home.
• Plug basement floor drains with either removable or permanent grids.
• Move valuables and irreplaceable items, such as family photo albums, tax and bank records and insurance policies, to higher locations.
• Move hazardous materials to higher locations. Cleaning up a house filled with flood water mixed with toxic materials can be difficult and costly.
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New Holiday/Vacation Homes For Sale
This months joke:
Question: What did Baby Corn say to Mother Corn?
Answer: Where's Pop Corn?
Question: What's the best way to work with your agent?
Answer:
If you are selling, create an information sheet that lists your home's features and best qualities, especially those that people might otherwise overlook. Give this to your agent, who may be able to use the information when marketing or talking with potential buyers.
When selling, talk to the agent about upgrading. Your home may need fresh paint or new carpet. (Make sure you choose neutral colors.)
If selling, keep it clean. Eliminate cobwebs and dust. Keep the bathroom counters and mirrors wiped down. Vacuum and sweep daily during the selling process.
If buying, be clear about what you want. Make a list of your priorities numbered one through 10 and give it to your agent. You can always revise the list, but give your agent something concrete so he or she can research available listings effectively.
Have questions? email Risa at questions@risa.net or call her at 1-800-699-4901
FREE programs from me to you, including "How To Buy A Home In Orlando" booklet
Use This Moving Truck for FREE 
RE/MAX Town & Country Realty has a moving truck (pictured above) that our clients can use FREE for their local (inside the Metro-Orlando area) moves.
When Risa helps you buy or sell a home, just let her know that you would like to use the RE/MAX Moving Truck. Then Ray, the Moving Truck Coordinator, will coordinate your reservation to use the truck for a 24 hour period and outline all of the details for the truck’s use. Tell Risa early on in your transaction that you’d like to use the truck to make sure that you can reserve the best time for your move!
We’re glad to be able to offer this additional service to our clients. Risa Saltman wants to help make your moving process as smooth, enjoyable and efficient as possible.
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