HouseMaster Homeower tips

To avoid unexpected mishaps that could ruin an evening around the fireplace, observe some simple precautions. Clean fireplaces annually, preferably by a certified chimney sweep. Use safety screens and doors for wood-burning fireplaces. Before lighting any fire, check to see that flue damper is op...

Maintenance costs need to be considered when purchasing a home. General estimates indicate that every home will require between 1 percent and 3 percent of the home’s value in annual maintenance costs, and this figure does not necessarily include major or emergency repairs. Prevention Saves Time a...

Buyers and  investors often look to foreclosure sales to find real estate bargains. But newcomers to this market could find some unpleasant surprises if they go in blind. All homes should be thoroughly inspected by a professional home inspector before sealing the deal. Why inspect if you can’t ne...

Check your know-how on various homeownership related matters. See how many questions you can answer correctly. (The answers are listed at the end.) True or False? 1. Gutters should be hung as level as possible. 2. Flat roofs are more prone to leakage than other roofs. 3. When purchasing an A/C sy...