Home Improvement

  • Home Improvement, Interior Painting

    Buying a Flipped House The Hidden Pitfalls

    Buying a Flipped House
    Pitfalls of Buying a Flipped House

    Navigating Substandard Renovations When Buying a Flipped House

    In recent years, the allure of buying a flipped house has captivated many homebuyers. These properties, often acquired in a state of disrepair by investors and then quickly renovated for resale, can appear to be the perfect find—modern updates, move-in ready conditions, and sometimes under market value.

    However, the glittering façade of buying a flipped house can sometimes hide a myriad of issues, ranging from shoddy workmanship to outright neglect of critical repairs. This blog post delves into the potential pitfalls of buying a flipped house and offers insights on how to protect yourself from falling into a money pit.

    The Risks Behind the Renovation

    Cutting Corners

    One of the most common issues with buying a flipped house is that the renovations are done hastily, with a focus on cosmetic updates rather than addressing structural or systemic problems. It’s not rare for flippers to prioritize aesthetic appeal over functionality and safety to maximize profit. This approach can lead to a plethora of hidden issues for the unsuspecting buyer, including electrical problems, plumbing mishaps, or even structural weaknesses.

    Shoddy Workmanship

    Due to the rapid turnaround time, the quality of work in flipped houses can often leave much to be desired. Unskilled labor may be employed to keep costs down, leading to substandard work that might not meet building codes or regulations. For example, you might find beautifully installed kitchen cabinets that are actually hiding improperly installed plumbing or hastily laid flooring that covers uneven subfloors.

    Overlooking Major Systems

    In an effort to maximize curb appeal, significant systems such as roofing, HVAC, and electrical may be superficially “updated” without a thorough inspection or proper overhaul. This can result in costly repairs down the line, as these critical systems are essential for the home’s functionality and safety.

    Hidden Costs

    The initial lower price point of buying a flipped house can be enticing, but it’s essential to consider the hidden costs. Structural issues, poor insulation, or outdated wiring that weren’t properly addressed during the flip can lead to exorbitant utility bills, repairs, or even complete replacements after purchase.

    If you would like a free quote on repairs before buying your flipped house, contact us via our contact form or call 303-909-3349.

    Protecting Yourself When Buying a Flipped House

    Despite these risks, not all flipped houses are bad investments. With due diligence, you can find a flipped home that has been renovated with care and attention to detail. Here are some strategies to protect yourself:

    Hire a Reputable Home Inspector

    Before making any purchase, especially with a flipped house, it’s crucial to hire an independent home inspector with a strong reputation. They can uncover hidden issues, ensuring that you’re aware of any potential problems before you buy. Make sure the inspector checks all major systems, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and the roof.

    Research the Flipper

    Do some digging into the history of the people or company behind the flip. Experienced and reputable flippers are more likely to have done a thorough job, as their reputation is on the line. Check for online reviews, ask for references, and look at other homes they’ve flipped if possible.

    Look Beyond the Surface

    Check for Straight Lines and No Drips
    Check for Straight Lines and No Drips

    Pay close attention to the details of the workmanship. Are the floors level? Do the doors close properly? Are there any signs of rushed paint jobs, like paint on window panes, door hinges or flooring, baseboards that have not been caulked, or uneven lines? These can be telltale signs of the quality of work you can expect throughout the house.

    The photo above shows what can happen if you hire a company that does substandard work. TSP Painting Services was hired to come in and repaint this entire home after the previous company left an unimaginable mess. That was double the expense for the homeowner. This leads us to the next way you can protect yourself from fly-by-night companies who do shoddy work…

    Check Permits and Inspections

    Ensure that all renovations were done with the proper permits and passed local inspections. This information can usually be obtained from the local building department. Work done without permits can be a red flag for substandard work that may not meet local building codes.

    Make sure the company has the proper insurance certificates. TSP Painting Services carries Workman’s Comp and Liability Insurance on every job.

    Consider a Specialist Evaluation

    For older homes or those with apparent major renovations, consider hiring a specialist to evaluate specific systems. For example, an electrician can inspect the electrical work, while a structural engineer can assess any changes made to the layout or foundation of the home.

    Negotiate Repairs

    If the inspection reveals problems, use this as a negotiating tool. You can request that the seller makes repairs, adjust the purchase price, or even back out of the deal if the issues are too significant.

    Buying a Flipped House Doesn’t Have to Be a Nightmare Scenario.

    With thorough research, careful inspection, and a bit of skepticism, you can find a flipped home that is both beautiful and structurally sound. Remember, the goal is to make a wise investment, not just to find a visually appealing home.

    By taking the time to ensure that the property you’re considering is up to standard, you can enjoy the benefits of a renovated home without the hidden costs and headaches. Here is a book that might be of interest: Home Buying 101

  • Home Improvement, Textures

    Wall Retexturing: Transform Your Space with a Fresh Canvas

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    In the grand tapestry of home renovation and decoration, wall retexturing stands out as a transformative process that goes beyond mere aesthetic appeal, embedding itself into the functional and perceptual aspects of our living spaces. We want to unravel the what, why, and how of wall retexturing, shedding light on its significance and guiding homeowners through the decision-making process.

    Wall retexturing
    Wall retexturing

    What is Wall Retexturing?

    Wall retexturing is the art and science of altering the surface texture of your walls. This process can involve smoothing out rough textures or applying new textures for aesthetic or practical purposes. Traditionally seen as a method to cover imperfections, wall retexturing has evolved into a design statement, allowing homeowners to customize their walls to reflect their unique tastes and enhance the overall ambiance of their homes.

    The Evolution of Textures

    Textures have played a pivotal role in interior design, evolving through trends and technological advancements. From the heavy textures of the past to the more subtle and refined textures of today, the choice of texture can significantly influence the mood and spatial perception of a room. Wall retexturing offers the opportunity to modernize outdated textures, aligning your home’s interior with contemporary trends or your personal style.

    Why Opt for Wall Re-Texturing?

    1. Aesthetic Transformation: Wall retexturing can dramatically change the look and feel of a room. It allows for customization that can make your space look larger, cozier, or more luxurious, depending on the chosen texture.

    2. Concealing Imperfections: Over time, walls accumulate imperfections such as dings, dents, and cracks. Retexturing provides an effective way to conceal these blemishes, giving your walls a fresh, new appearance.

    3. Enhancing Home Value: A well-executed wall retexturing project can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, potentially increasing its market value. It’s a cost-effective way to make a significant impact on your home’s appeal to potential buyers.

    4. Personalization: Retexturing allows you to personalize your living space according to your preferences, creating a unique environment that reflects your personality and lifestyle.

    5. Improving Wall Health: The process often involves addressing underlying issues such as moisture damage or mold growth, improving the overall health of your walls.

    Types of Textures

    There are a variety of textures that can be applied through retexturing, each offering a unique look and feel:

    • Smooth: Perfect for a modern, sleek look. It’s versatile and serves as an excellent backdrop for art and other decorative elements.
    • Knockdown: Features a mottled texture that adds depth and character to walls, ideal for hiding imperfections.
    • Orange Peel: Mimics the skin of an orange with a subtle texture, providing a casual and inviting look.
    • Popcorn: Commonly used for ceilings but can add an interesting tactile element to walls in specific settings.

    The Process of Wall Retexturing

    The retexturing process varies depending on the existing wall condition and the desired texture. Generally, it involves the following steps:

    1. Preparation: This includes cleaning the walls, removing old wallpaper or flaking paint, and repairing any damages.

    2. Priming: A primer is applied to ensure the new texture adheres properly.

    3. Texture Application: The chosen texture is applied using tools and techniques specific to the texture type.

    4. Finishing Touches: Once the texture is dry, finishing touches such as painting can be applied.

    DIY vs. Professional Wall Retexturing

    While some homeowners may be tempted to undertake wall retexturing as a DIY project, it’s important to consider the complexity and skill required. Professional retexturing ensures a high-quality finish, efficiency, and a level of artistry that comes from experience. Professionals also have access to high-grade materials and tools, which can make a significant difference in the outcome.

    Maintenance and Longevity

    Maintaining textured walls is relatively straightforward, involving regular dusting and occasional cleaning with mild detergent. The longevity of a textured wall depends on the quality of materials used and the application technique. Professionally applied textures can last for decades with minimal maintenance.

    Considering Wall Retexturing?

    Wall retexturing is a powerful tool in the home renovation arsenal, offering a blend of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and personalization. Whether you’re looking to update your home’s look, conceal imperfections, or increase its value, retexturing your walls can provide a fresh and inviting canvas that transforms your living space. As you consider wall retexturing for your home, remember the importance of quality, both in materials and craftsmanship, to ensure a lasting and beautiful result.

    Our crews are masters at applying wall textures. If you would like a free consultation or just have questions, please get in contact with us at 303-909-3349 or reach out via our contact form. We are always happy to help.

  • Home Improvement

    Health Benefits of House Plants

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    Many people believe that plants provide health benefits to the environment when they are kept inside, including purifying, and removing carbon dioxide from indoor air. Indoor plants may also improve the mood and well-being of those who live inside, reducing stress and anxiety by increasing oxygen in the room.

    Indoor plants clean the air in your home by absorbing carbon dioxide, a common pollutant. They also release oxygen into the air and help to purify the air of toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene. They can help reduce respiratory illnesses such as asthma or allergies.

    Which House Plants Have the Best Health Benefits

    Ferns

    Ferns are a group of plants that grow in moist and shaded areas in temperate or tropical climates, yet they thrive just as well indoors and are a very popular household plant.

    Ferns clean the air of your home by absorbing harmful chemicals, including cigarette smoke and volatile organic compounds. They also release oxygen into the air where it can help to clean the carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. They also help with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.

    Ferns are often used in greenhouses because they are one of the best plants for removing formaldehyde, ammonia, benzene, and other chemicals from the air.

    Spider Plants

    Spider plants are a great way to clean the air in your home. They absorb toxins and chemicals from the air and help purify it just like ferns.

    The spider plant is an excellent choice for those who want to keep their home clean, but don’t have much time to do so. These beautiful plants can be used as a living room or bedroom decoration and will provide you with fresh oxygen while cleaning the air in your home! Spider plants have a high surface area, which means they can absorb more toxins than other plants. They also release oxygen at night while absorbing carbon dioxide during the day. Win-Win!

    Devil’s Ivy

    Devil’s Ivy is a common houseplant that has been used in many cultures for centuries and is now gaining popularity as a low-maintenance plant that can remove toxins and chemicals from the air.

    The plant has the ability to remove formaldehyde, benzene, and other harmful chemicals from the air in your home. It also removes some carbon dioxide, which is important for people who suffer from asthma or emphysema. The Devil’s Ivy plant has a high surface area and has a natural tendency to grow upwards, which means that the leaves are exposed to more fresh oxygen than most other types of plants.

    Aloe Vera

    The Aloe Vera plant has long been known for its skin moisturizing and healing properties. It also has the ability to clean the air in your home.

    The aloe vera plant is a natural air purifier. The leaves of this succulent houseplant are covered with tiny hairs that trap dust, dirt, smoke, and other airborne pollutants. It releases oxygen at night to help clean the air while you sleep.

    Philodendron

    The Philodendron plant, also known as the Heartleaf, belongs to the Araceae family and has been shown to remove toxins and chemicals from the air. The plants are sensitive to light and need indirect sunlight for at least 8 hours a day, which makes them easy to care for. They emit oxygen at night which helps with sleep quality.

    All of the above plants do pretty much the same thing; they look beautiful, and they keep the air in your home fresh and clean. You can have many health benefits by just adding a few to every room in your home.