Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Annual Walk-around Home Check

2. Look closely at all exterior surfaces for cracking, deteriorated wood and other damage that might be caused by condensation or other water penetration. Are any interior surfaces such as walls, floors or ceilings discolored or showing the effects of moisture?

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Monday, September 29, 2008

Annual Walk-around Home Check

The following 10 items cover common maintenance issues with windows and doors and should be included in your walk-around check:

1. Inspect the interior and exterior finishes around windows and doors. Is the paint or stain in good condition? Signs of flaking and peeling may mean that it's time to refinish the unit.


For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Friday, September 26, 2008

Annual Walk-around Home Check

Your inspection should include all of the major systems that protect your home, including the windows, doors, roof, gutters, exterior finish, foundation, and steps; plus the interior systems such as heating, cooling, chimney, and electrical. Look for obvious signs of deterioration, damage or potential problems. Check for conditions that may allow moisture to enter your home -- from plants and sprinkler systems too close to the house to low-lying areas that direct water toward the home. Likewise, watch for any deteriorating wood, cracks, damaged caulk, old weather stripping, and other potential sources of leaks.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Annual Walk-around Home Check

Do an Annual Walk-around Home Check, and don't Forget the Windows and Doors

Your home -- like your body and your car -- needs a regular checkup to run smoothly. An annual, fall walk-around home check is a great way to find any potential maintenance issues before winter arrives.

"It is important to periodically monitor the overall condition of a home," says John Ghent, president of The American Society of Home Inspectors, a non-profit professional organization for home inspectors. "Simple wear and tear from weather and age occurs in every home. It is wise to fix any problems before they lead to extensive and costly repairs."


For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Energy Efficiency and Insulation

At home, at work, or in the community, saving energy is becoming an important topic, because of economic factors and because of concerns about the environment. Buildings that incorporate energy efficiency technologies are typically more comfortable, have lower utility bills, and have minimal impact on the environment.

Insulation is one of the most important ways to save energy in your home. According to the Department of Energy, 50% to 70% of the energy used in the average American home goes toward heating and cooling. Property installed insulation keeps your house more comfortable, saves energy and money, and cuts down on noise from outside.

The U.S. Dept. of Energy says you should consider insulating your home if:

• You are uncomfortably cold in the winter or hot during the summer. Adding insulation can create a more uniform temperature inside your house.

• Your energy bills are high. Typically, more than half your energy costs are for heating and cooling your home. By adding insulation, you can lower your energy bills. In a nationwide survey of building improvements, adding ceiling insulation reduced heating bills by 10 to 20 percent.

• You are building an addition, or installing new siding or roofing. It's easier and cheaper to install insulation now than to add it later.

• You have an older home and haven't added insulation. In a recent survey, only 20% of homes built before 1980 were well insulated.

• You are bothered by noise from outside. Insulation can help to muffle sounds from outdoors.

The EPA website provides useful information in insulating your home, including industry associations, facts sheets, and frequently asked questions about insulation.

The Alliance to Save Energy tells you how you can get financing for energy efficiency improvements.

The Home Energy Saver website (sponsored by the EPA and the DOE) shows you how much you can reduce your energy bills by incorporating their energy efficiency suggestions, specific to your zip code.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

What About Those Termites?

Known to conjure up feelings of dread in homeowners worldwide, the name termite comes from the Latinw=ord for woodworm. No big surprise there. In nature, termites are good, because they turn decayed wood into nutrients for other organisms. In nature; good. In our homes; not good.

How do we know if we've got 'em?

According to the Ohio State University Extension: Typical signs of termite infestations include swarming of winged adults in the spring (March, April, May, and June) and occasionally autumn (September =nd October)... Other signs of termite presence include "pencil-size" bud tubes (which termites use like tunnels), constructed over the surface of foundation walls, mud protruding from cracks between boards and beams, and hollow sounds from infested wood when it is tapped, or extreme softness when probed with a knife.

First, experts advise, "Don't panic." Termites work slowly. Take the time to do research. In most cases, once a termite infestation has been found, control measures are usually best accomplished by a professional pest control firm rather than a do-it-yourself treatment. (Homeowners seldom have the experience, availability of pesticides and equipment needed to perform the job effectively.)

Deal only with a licensed, certified pest control firm having an established place of business and a good professional reputation. Ideally the firm will belong to a city, state or national pest control association. Get at least three competitive estimates before signing a contract for control measures.

Can we do anything to prevent them?

Termites (and ants) are attracted to moisture. Therefore, keep moisture away from the foundation of your buildings. That means keeping downspouts and gutters working properly. Also, keep vines and shrubs away from the ventilation openings in your crawl spaces. Don't stack firewood or any other wood against the foundation or in the crawl space. Prevent plants from touching the house.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Monday, September 22, 2008

When Is It Time To Replace My Roof?

Most experts agree that one of the best ways to avoid roof trouble is to inspect your roof twice a year: In the Fall, for sun damage and in the Spring for Winter damage. By doing this, you will be able to identify any problems early, before you start having leaks. Use binoculars from the ground to check for problems.

If you have asphalt shingles (petroleum based material covered with sand-like granule), look out for a roof surface that is not smooth and the edges of the shingles are curled and warped. Check for crooked shingles. Scan the roof for any shingles that may have been lifted by the wind or are missing altogether. Bumps can indicate that the roofing nails below have become loose. Look for bald spots where the mineral granules have worn away

With wood shingles, check for curled, broken, and split shingles and for spots where nails have become loose or rusted.

With tile or slate, individual tiles can chip and break and require replacement.
In valleys and in flashings around the chimney and vents, check for broken seals along the flashing's edges and for rust spots in the metal.

Check rafters and the underside of the roof for dark wet spots. These are signs of rot and will need to be replaced.

Climbing into your attic or onto your roof to inspect your home can be very dangerous. For that reason, we urge you to use the services of a professional contractor to conduct a close-up roof inspection.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Friday, September 19, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

10. Work hand in hand with your mover. Give the mover's foreman your reach numbers and email addresses so you can stay in contact. Read the inventory form carefully, and ask the mover to explain anything you don't understand. Make a note of your shipment's registration number, and keep your Bill of Lading handy.

11. If you're moving long distance, be aware that your property might share a truck with that of several other households. For this reason, your mover might have to warehouse your furniture and belongings for several days. Therefore, ask your mover whether your goods will remain on the truck until delivered. If they have to be stored, ask whether you can check the warehouse for security, organization and cleanliness.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

9. Since you may need to call old neighbors or businesses from your new home, pack your phone book.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

8. Let all your electrical gadgets return to room temperature before plugging them in.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

7. Keep your pets out of packing boxes and away from all the activity on moving day.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Monday, September 15, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

6. Fill two "OPEN ME FIRST" cartons containing snacks, instant coffee or tea bags, soap, toilet paper, toothpaste and brushes, medicine and toiletry items (make sure caps are tightly secured), flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a pan or two, paper towels, and any other items your family can't do without. Ask your van foreman to load one of these boxes, so that it will be unloaded at your new home first. Why the second box? In case the movers are delayed getting to your house on the day of the move.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Friday, September 12, 2008

Rates for Sept 12, 2008

Conventional 30 Year Fixed: 5.625% 1.00pt Apr: 6.1281
5.875% 0.25pt Apr: 6.3171


FHA\VA 30 Year Fixed: 5.500% 1.00pt Apr: 6.0876
6.000% 0.00pt Apr: 6.5122

Lewis H. Ivey III
Champion Realty Mortgage
711 Bestgate Rd.
Annapolis, Md. 21401
Office: 410.224.7134
Fax: 410.224.3542
Cell: 301.602.2536

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

5. You can lighten your load and reduce any storage space you need to rent by hosting a garage or yard sale.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

4. For your family's safety and comfort teach your children your new address. Let them practice writing it on packed cartons.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

3. Label your boxes, especially the one containing sheets and towels, so you can find everything you need the first night in your new home.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

2. Use sheets, blankets, pillows and towels to separate pictures and other fragile objects from each other and the sides of the carton. Pack plates and glass objects vertically, rather than flat and stacked. Be sure to point out to your mover the boxes in which you've packed fragile items, especially if those items are exceptionally valuable. The mover will advise you whether those valuables need to be repacked in sturdier, more appropriate boxes.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Monday, September 8, 2008

Easing the Transition to Your New Home

1. Use the right boxes, and pack them carefully. The heavier the item, the smaller the box it should occupy. A good rule of thumb is if you can't lift the carton easily, it's too heavy. Professional moving companies use only sturdy, reinforced cartons. The boxes you can get at your neighborhood supermarket or liquor store might be free, but they are not nearly as strong or padded, and so can't shield your valuables as well from harm in transit.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Friday, September 5, 2008

Owning Vs. Renting

One final aspect that cannot be overlooked is the pride that you feel when you own your own home. You have proven to yourself that you can achieve monumental goals and can give your family the security it needs to move forward in life. Once you have built up equity in your first home, you can leverage your equity to purchase a nicer home later.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Rates for Sept. 5, 2008

Conventional 30 Year Fixed: 5.875% 1.125 pts APR: 6.4036
6.000% 0.625 pts APR: 6.4868

FHA\VA 30 Year Fixed: 6.000% 0.500 pts APR: 6.5469
6.375% 0.000 pts APR: 6.8874


Lewis H. Ivey III
Champion Realty Mortgage

711 Bestgate Rd.
Annapolis, Md. 21401
Office: 410.224.7134
Fax: 410.224.3542
Cell: 301.602.2536

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Owning Vs. Renting

If you have children, you will find that they feel more secure when coming home to a house that is not owned by someone else. There are no worries that they will be suddenly forced to change schools and reestablish their lives at the decision of someone else. You can also get to know your neighbors, and if they have children, lifelong friendships can be formed because everyone knows that they will be around each other for years and years.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Owning Vs. Renting

By owning a home, you will find yourself in more control of your immediate surroundings. You can change things and decorate to your tastes, and not be limited by the standards of a landlord. You do not have to seek someone else's approval if you decide to remodel or alter the landscaping. Your home truly is your castle.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Owning Vs. Renting

Home ownership is a strong anchor for your life. You have something that represents a strong commitment and a sense of stability. Again, the aspect of freedom comes up -you won't have to worry about a landlord telling you it is time for you to move, your children won't have to worry about whether they will have to change schools, and you are blessed with the ability to plan for the future.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?

Monday, September 1, 2008

Owning Vs. Renting

There is a great sense of belonging to the community once you own a home. You begin to feel more attached to the city and its people. You will find yourself more involved with community events - what is happening with the schools, roads and shopping centers in your area. Some new homeowners find themselves getting into local politics in order to create better surroundings, which is something renters seldom do.

For More Valuable Real Estate Information visit:
http://FreeReports.AnnapolisHomes4You.com
Pat Ogle and The AnnapolisHomes4You Team
Champion Realty, Inc
410-224-0660
http://www.AnnapolisHomes4You.com/
PatOgle@AnnapolisHomes4You.com

Past Performance is No Guarantee of the Future!
But What Else Do We Have To Go By?