Maintaining your home is an important task that helps keep your property in good condition. It can save you money in the long run. Here are some tips on maintaining your home to keep it in good condition.

Seasonal Maintenance Tasks

Performing regular maintenance is essential for keeping your home in good condition. This includes seasonal tasks such as cleaning gutters, checking and sealing windows and doors, and inspecting your heating and cooling systems. It's also important to change air filters regularly and clean out any debris from outdoor HVAC units.

In the fall, it's important to prepare your home for the cold weather. Insulating pipes, sealing drafts, and checking the condition of your heating system is important to keep your house in good condition. In the spring, it's important to perform tasks such as checking and repairing any damage to your roof, inspecting your air conditioning system, and cleaning out your gutters and downspouts.

Home Safety and Security

Maintaining a safe and secure home is a top priority for any homeowner. This includes installing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in every room, checking the batteries regularly, and testing the alarms monthly.

It's also important to install a security system to protect your home from potential break-ins. This can include installing motion sensors, security cameras, and door and window alarms. It's also important to keep your doors and windows locked at all times, and to install sturdy locks and deadbolts.

Energy-Saving Measures

Taking steps to save energy not only helps the environment, but can also save you money on your utility bills. This includes simple measures such as turning off lights and electronics not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs, and unplugging appliances not in use.

Other energy-saving measures include installing a programmable thermostat to help regulate the temperature in your home. Sealing drafts around windows and doors, and insulating your attic and walls will also improve energy efficiency.

Keep the Exterior in Good Condition

Regularly inspect the exterior of your home for signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracks in the foundation or siding. Make repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage. It's also important to keep your lawn and landscaping well-maintained, which can improve your home's curb appeal and prevent overgrowth that could cause damage to your home.

Maintain Your Appliances

Regular maintenance of your appliances, such as your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher, can help prevent breakdowns and extend their lifespan. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which may include tasks such as cleaning the filters, replacing belts or hoses, and checking for leaks.

Clean Regularly

Keeping your home clean not only improves its appearance, it prevents damage and improves indoor air quality. Regularly dust and vacuum your home, and clean spills or stains as soon as they occur to prevent them from setting in. It's also important to regularly clean your air ducts, which can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and improve indoor air quality.

Monitor Your Home's Moisture Levels

High levels of moisture in your home can lead to mold growth. This can be damaging to both your home and your health. Regularly check for signs of moisture, such as water stains or mold growth, and take steps to address the issue. Checking your attic and basement regularly is important. This may include repairing leaks, improving ventilation, or installing a dehumidifier.

Plan for Future Maintenance

Keep a record of maintenance tasks, and plan for future maintenance tasks accordingly. For example, if you know that your roof will need to be replaced in a few years, you'll need a plan. Start saving for the expense now so that you're prepared when the time comes to complete it.

Maintaining a home is an important task that requires regular attention to keep your property in good condition. By performing seasonal maintenance tasks, prioritizing home safety and security, and implementing energy-saving measures, you can help keep your home in great shape and enjoy a comfortable and safe living environment.

By following these tips for maintaining your home, you can help keep your home in great condition. Maintenance can also prevent costly repairs down the road. Regular maintenance is key to a healthy and happy home!

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Southern NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a Southern NH house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

So which option is the best first time investment? The decision to purchase a house, condo, or multi-family property as your first home depends on your lifestyle, financial situation, and personal preferences. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and it's essential to consider them carefully before making a decision.

House

Pros:

• More space for family, pets or hobbies
• You own the land and can make changes to the property as you please
• Higher potential for resale value and appreciation over time
• Can be a better long-term investment

Cons:

• More expensive than condos or multi-family homes
• Higher maintenance and repair costs
• Takes more time and effort to maintain both the house and the yard

Condo

Pros:

• Less maintenance, as the condo association takes care of exterior and common area upkeep
• Amenities such as pools, gyms and clubhouses may be available for residents
• Cheaper than buying a house in some areas
• Potentially higher rental income if you decide to rent it out

Cons:

• You have less control over the property
• Limited living space
• You may have to pay monthly fees for the upkeep and maintenance of common areas
• Potential for special assessments or unexpected costs related to building repairs

Multi-Family

Pros:

• Potential for rental income from other units to offset your mortgage payments
• Investment opportunity, as the property value may increase over time
• Living in one unit and renting out the others can reduce your housing costs

Cons:

• Requires more responsibility as a landlord, including maintenance and repairs
• Limited privacy
• Difficulties in finding tenants can lead to periods of vacancies
• Property management issues can arise if tenants do not pay their rent or cause damage to the property.

In conclusion, deciding between a house, condo, or multi-family home as your first home will depend on your individual needs. Finding the best first time investment should be based on your financial goals. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans before making a decision.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Southern NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a Southern NH house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

Congratulations on taking the first step towards becoming a homeowner in New Hampshire! Here are seven tips for home buyers that can help you navigate the process:

Determine your budget: 

Before you start looking for a home, you need to determine how much you can afford to spend. Consider your income, debts, and other financial obligations to come up with a realistic budget. This is the first step in buying a home.

Start by looking at your monthly income and expenses, including your rent, car payments, and other debts. Determine how much you can afford to spend on a monthly mortgage payment. Use a mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments based on the purchase price of the home you want to buy. Keep in mind that you'll also need to pay for closing costs and other fees, so factor those into your budget as well. 

Get pre-approved for a mortgage: 

Once you have a budget in mind, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you an idea of how much you can borrow and help you narrow down your search to homes that fit your budget. Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage.

This will give you an idea of how much you can borrow and help you narrow down your search to homes that fit your budget. To get pre-approved, you'll need to provide your lender with documentation of your income, assets, and debts.

Research neighborhoods: 

New Hampshire has many wonderful neighborhoods to choose from, so do your research to find the one that suits your needs best. Consider factors such as school districts, commute times, and nearby amenities.

New Hampshire has many different neighborhoods to choose from, so it's important to do your research before you start house hunting. Consider factors such as school districts, commute times, nearby amenities, and property values. Look for neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.

Hire a real estate agent: 

A good real estate agent can help you find the right home, negotiate the best deal, and guide you through the entire process. Look for an agent with experience in the area and good reviews. Your agent can help you find homes that fit your criteria, negotiate the best deal, and guide you through the entire process.

Attend open houses: 

Attend open houses to get a feel for what's available in your price range. This will help you narrow down your options and make an informed decision. Take note of the condition of the homes you visit and ask questions about any issues you notice.

Get a home inspection: 

Once you've found a home you're interested in, get a home inspection. This is a crucial step in the home buying process, as it will help you identify any potential problems with the home before you buy it. Look for a reputable home inspector who will provide you with a detailed report of their findings. 

Don't Rush:

Buying a home is a big decision, so it's important not to rush into it. Take your time and make sure you're comfortable with the home, the neighborhood, and the price before you sign on the dotted line. Work with your real estate agent to negotiate the best deal possible and make sure you understand all the terms of the contract before you agree to them.

By following these seven tips for home buyers, you can make the process of buying your first home in New Hampshire as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Hudson NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a Southern NH house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

Buying a home is an exciting and important decision that requires careful preparation and planning. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or have experience in the real estate market, there are several key steps you can take to ensure a successful home buying experience. Here are three home buying tips to help you prepare, navigate the process, and choose the right property for your needs:

Preparing to Buy a Home

Before you start searching for properties, it's important to get your finances in order. This includes checking your credit score, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, and determining your budget for the purchase. It's also important to research the different types of mortgages available and choose one that's right for you.

Another key step in preparing to buy a home is to work with a reputable real estate agent who has expertise in the local market. An experienced agent can help you navigate the home buying process, provide valuable insights and advice, and help you find the best available properties that meet your specific needs and budget.

Navigating the Home Buying Process

Once you're ready to start your search, it's important to have a clear understanding of the home buying process. This includes researching properties, attending open houses and showings, making offers, and completing the necessary paperwork and inspections.

One of the most important steps in the home buying process is to have a home inspection. A professional inspection can help identify any issues or problems with the property, such as structural damage, plumbing or electrical issues, or other potential hazards.

When making an offer on a property, it's important to consider not only the price but also any contingencies, such as inspection or financing contingencies, that may be included in the offer. Working with an experienced real estate agent can help ensure that your offer is competitive and includes any necessary contingencies.

Choosing the Right Property

When choosing a property, it's important to consider a range of factors, such as location, size, and condition of the property. It's also important to consider any additional features or amenities that may be important to you, such as a backyard or a garage.

Another key consideration when choosing a property is the potential for future appreciation. This includes factors such as the location of the property, the local real estate market, and any upcoming development or infrastructure projects in the area.

Ultimately, the key to a successful home buying experience is to be patient, do your research, and work with experienced professionals who can help guide you through the process. By following these three home buying tips, you can find the right property that meets your needs and budget and enjoy a successful and fulfilling home ownership experience.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Southern NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a Southern NH house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

Nashua NH Real Estate trends are experiencing a strong market, with a steady increase in home prices and a low inventory of available properties. The median home value in Nashua NH is around $325,000, which is slightly lower than the national average. However, the market is still continuing to rise, with a strong demand for homes in the area.

Nashua NH is an attractive location for commuters who work in Boston but prefer to live in a more affordable and suburban setting. One of the contributing factors to this trend is the city's proximity to Boston. Additionally, Nashua NH also offers a range of amenities and attractions, such as parks, restaurants, and shopping centers, which make it an appealing destination for families and young professionals.

In terms of rental market trends, Nashua NH has a diverse and competitive rental market, with a range of rental options available to tenants. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Nashua NH is around $1,300 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,600 per month. Rental prices can vary depending on the location and type of property, as well as other factors such as the age and condition of the building.

Despite the strong demand for homes and rental properties, the inventory of available properties in Nashua NH remains relatively low. This makes it more challenging for buyers and renters to find available properties, especially during peak spring and summer real estate seasons.

Work with a REALTOR to stay informed about the local real estate trends in Hudson NH and the real estate market. Check out thesevaluable resources, such as the New Hampshire Association of Realtors or the Nashua NH town website. These resources offer a wealth of information and insights on local real estate trends, including data on home sales, median home prices, and more. 

Work with a local real estate agent who has firsthand knowledge and expertise on the current state of the market for Nashua NH real estate trends. We can help navigate this competitive market as your local Nashua NH real estate agents. We can help you find the best available properties that meet your specific needs and budget.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Nashua NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a South Nashua NH house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

Recent reports suggest that the local real estate trends in Hudson NH show a strong market. This is characterized by a steady rise in home prices and a low inventory of available properties. This trend appears to be continuing with the median home value in Hudson NH at around $400,000, slightly higher than the national average.

One of the contributing factors to this trend is the strong demand for homes in the area, especially among first-time homebuyers and families looking for larger homes. Several neighboring states have buyers that are moving to allow them to purchase more home for the money and it is causing  a even higher demand.

Hudson NH has a scarce rental market, with few rental options available to tenants. Finding rentals is hard as you will need good credit, references and no pets. According to recent reports, the demand for rental properties in the area has been steadily increasing over the past few years. This trend is driven by a variety of factors, such as a growing population, an increasing number of young professionals, and an attractive cost of living compared to nearby cities.

In terms of rental prices, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hudson NH is around $1,400 per month. A two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,800 per month while houses start around $2500 a month. However, rental prices can vary depending on the location and type of property, as well as other factors such as the age and condition of the building.

One of the challenges facing tenants and buyers with local real estate trends in Hudson NH is the limited availability of properties, and a low vacancy rate. This can make it more difficult to find available properties, especially during peak rental and buying seasons.

Despite these challenges, the local real estate trends in Hudson NH remain strong and continue to be an attractive option for many residents. For those looking to buy or rent in the area, work with a local real estate agent who can help navigate the market and find the best available properties that meet your specific needs and budget.

To stay informed about the local real estate trends in Hudson NH and the real estate market, check out some of the valuable resources, such as the New Hampshire Association of Realtors or the Hudson NH town website. These resources offer a wealth of information and insights on local real estate trends, including data on home sales, median home prices, and more. 

Additionally, it's always a good idea to speak with local real estate agents who have firsthand knowledge and expertise about the current state of the market. As your local real estate agents, we can provide you with valuable insights into the Hudson NH real estate market and help you make informed decisions about buying or selling your home.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Hudson NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a South Hudson NH house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

When it comes to selling your Hudson home, cleaning up and fixing any broken or worn items will help you attain a higher value for your house. Take a look at these 10 things you can do to make your house more appealing before you sell.

1. Power Wash
   The first impression is very important. Power wash the exterior of your house, garage, decks and walkways to make it look clean. The cleaner your house appears the more well maintained buyers will think it is. You can hire a company for a few hundred dollars or with a couple hours you can do it yourself.

2. Paint
   Painting your house can take ten years off the look. A new fresh coat of paint can do wonders to spruce up the cleanliness of a room or especially the outside of your home. Make sure all the trim and doors look clean and maintained to tell buyers your home has been loved.

3. Landscaping
   Take care of your lawn. Make sure to use the lawn mower and water your lawn before putting your home on the market so that the exterior of your home looks its best. Some weed whacking will also go a long way. Make sure to make the edges look pretty to match the rest of your lawn. You can hire a professional or take a few hours of your time. It will be worth the effort when you get the best price possible for your home.

4. Gutters
   Clean the leaves and gunk out of the gutters. It is good for inspections and for possible water retention issues that can occur to your foundation when the gutters have already been maintained. If there is build up from a gutter causing a backup into your basement it could be mistaken as something more expensive. It also gives a clean look to the finish off the exterior.

5. Steam Clean
   A clean carpet is vital for showings. People will wonder if it’s possible to get stains out and consider replacement instead of cleaning when they see stains. For a few hundred dollars you can have a company come and do it for you or you can rent a steam cleaner and invest a few hours to make your home look it’s best. If you have pets it’s especially important to try to rid your home of any additional odors or stains that might cause a buyer to rethink purchasing your house.

6. Add Storage
   If you add storage to a room with a closet, as long as you’re on public sewer, it has the potential to be another bedroom. Buyers will look at it as extra storage or the potential for the additional room for a child, a spare bedroom, workout room or even a in-home office.

7. Check the Roof & Attic
   Take a look at your attic and your roof before putting your home on the market. Sometimes you’ll find a small leak that can be repaired prior to listing instead of having to replace a whole roof if a buyer becomes concerned. Checking the attic is also a great thing to do because many times if you haven’t been up there in a long time there could be rodents or even mold growing up there to could potentially kill a deal or become more costly by not addressing it prior to the listing.

8. Wash & Fix Windows
   Cracked and broken windows can easily be fixed by a glass repair company without having to replace every window in your home. However, if a buyer sees lots of damage to your windows it will get them thinking that all the windows need to be replaced when a smaller fix may be adequate. Washing the windows will do wonders for brightening up the space and look of the home as well.

9. Declutter
   When you remove all the excess clutter it makes your home feel more inviting and spacious. Remove any excess things that you’re not using for the season and put them in Rubbermaid bins to put in the basement or garage. Put away all the extra photos and trinkets that make your home feel cluttered. While it may be nice to have mementos all of the house for your enjoyment it is distracting for buyers.

10. Replace Your Filters
    Filters don’t cost too much and showing that you care for your HVAC systems goes a long way for a buyer. Seeing that you maintain all your system is an important step. It also keeps your systems running and working properly.

All of these projects could be done by yourself or easily enough done by a professional, as well. If you need a list of qualified professionals give us a call, we’d be honored to help.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Hudson NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for tips on buying a South Hudson house for sale. We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

So you’re thinking of selling your Hudson home. Have you thought about what updates would make your home more marketable or researched tips to sell your home? An easy and inexpensive way to ensure your home sells is through staging. Perhaps you’re wondering what that entails? Staging your house is all about the aesthetics. Think of staging as a great way to put your homes best foot forward to show people what made you first want to buy. Just by following a few of these tips can help your Hudson house for sale spend up to 83% less time on the market than non-staged homes according to The International Association of Home Staging Professionals.

1. Take a peek at the competition. Search your areas listings. Is there a Hudson house for sale that stands out? Some that turned you away? Take notes on what drew you in and what made you say next. With poor staging, even a great home can seem small dark and uninviting. Doing this can give you ideas of what your home and listing needs to stand out.

2. Deep clean your home!  Such a simple step, but a crucial one. No one wants to picture themselves in a dirty home. Start by decluttering; either by throwing items away you don’t need or storing items with friends, family or in a storage unit. Now we know keeping a home spotless for months can become daunting, especially if you have kids. Make sure your agent gives plenty of time before showings to tidy up and another option is to hire a weekly housekeeper to help with the upkeep. A small price for big results!

3. Paint and touch ups are another great way to update your home to sell.  Now that your home is clean, you may look around and start to notice a scuffed wall or chipping corners. Maybe you’ve loved having a dark colored living room, but your buyers are looking for something light and natural. A simple paint update could be what’s standing between you and your house selling. We suggest light and airy earth-toned colors like grey or beige. It helps enlarge your spaces and keeps things looking fresh.

4. Interior design plays a big role as well.  The idea of staging is to make your home look unlived in. We encourage owners to take down all personal effects and rearrange your furniture to best fit your space not your lifestyle. For example, instead of your furniture facing the TV have the couches face each other in the living room. While we are keeping the décor to a minimum, interior designer’s recommend odd numbers like having three throw pillows on your couch. Have a small space? Add a mirror and double it. These tips will make your rooms feel bigger and draw in the buyers. The key here is to get the most out of your spaces and to give them purpose.

5. Don’t forget lighting! We are setting the stage after all and what’s a stage without lighting? Replace the burnt out bulbs, open the blinds, and get as much light in your home as you can. The key to people falling in love with your house is being able to see it!

6. Having a pet and selling a home can be tricky; a good practice is to keep their items stored out of the way and to make sure they aren’t there when the house is being shown if possible. You don’t want your loveable friend distracting from your beautiful home. If the key to staging is to make it look like no one lives there, the dog bowl, litter box, and all the toys your family pet enjoys need to be put out of sight.

7. Make your home smell inviting.  So you’ve done the heavy lifting part of staging and are running out the door before a showing, give the house a once over make sure everything’s in its place and give the house a spray down with some air freshener. You want your home to feel clean and smell can play a huge roll here.

8. Now that the inside of your house is staged to perfection don’t neglect the exterior. Whether that is mowing your lawn, weeding, planting some annuals for a pop of color, or pressure washing the siding, it's all part of staging your house to sell. This is the first look at your home a buyer will have and curb appeal is everything!

Good luck incorporating these tips for staging your house to sell. Selling your Hudson NH house for sale is not always easy, but with our help we can make it less stressful. Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com for more tips to prepare your Hudson NH house for sale.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Hudson NH house for sale, give our Agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!

It’s easy to get preoccupied with making the house look perfect for showings but safety is a bigger concern. With strangers walking around your house during showings, precautions for your Hudson house for sale will make sellers feel safe. Below are 5 tips to protect your house during a showing.

The buyers are supervised by a real estate agent but there is still a lot of foot traffic through your home. A security system is helpful as a tool for owners but it is a felony to record anyone without their permission. Most buyers have good intentions and showings are usually problem free but it’s best to prepare just in case.

Hide your valuables

Sellers should hide their valuables when selling their Hudson house for sale. Removing jewelry, electronics like phones, tablets or laptops and other valuable items is always a good idea when you have strangers coming to your home. You can put them in a safe or hide them so that they are not in plain sight. Even medications and identifying paperwork should be kept locked away as prescription drug theft or identity theft can also become a problem. Weapons such as guns and large kitchen knives should also be locked up or removed to prevent theft and further protect you.

Replace Artwork

If you have expensive artwork in your home it’s best to replace it with prints or reproductions prior to listing your home on the market. If your house will be empty it’s even more important to take them down prior to your move. When in doubt take it down and pack it away.

Remove Personal Photos

A homey feel is great as it can help buyers imagine their family in your home. However, with lots of new people in your home it is best to protect your family. Putting away personal photos protects the sellers and their family. You want the buyers to be able to look around and envision themselves and their family instead of yours.

Have buyers sign in

During open houses buyers should sign in and leave their name and phone number. Then if there is suspicion of theft, there is a record of who attended during the open house. When other agents show the house they will also leave their information. Signing in helps keep track of everyone who looks at the house.

Secure the house

Make sure the sellers have their house securely locked before showings. When possible the listing agent should use a supra to gain access to the house so that when agents enter the house there is a way to track it.

It’s important to think about safety with so many prospective buyers entering and exiting the sellers’ house. It is important to protect homeowners and their identities. It’s impossible to keep an eye on everyone at all times. Although most buyers are honest, consider the possibility that some aren’t. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Selling your Southern NH house for sale is not always easy, but with our help we can make it less stressful. Visit our website www.Harmony-RE.com  for more tips to prepare your Southern NH house for sale.

If you are thinking of buying or selling a Southern NH house for sale, give our agents a call and we can discuss your options. Call Harmony Real Estate at (603) 883-8840 for more information today! We would love to help you with all your home buying and selling goals. We are the agency in tune with your real estate needs!