When purchasing your Austin home, getting it inspected is crucial. It not only ensures your safety but also provides useful information about maintenance for both short and long-term ownership.

For instance, checking electrical wires or essential systems such as air conditioning can help prepare you ahead of time in case any repairs need to be made. Inspecting all aspects of the house provides insight into its condition during those critical moments leading up to making an offer.

In this blog post, we'll identify the major items that inspectors pay attention to when examining a potential dream home buy. Here's what you can expect from a home inspection.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Check for Safety Issues
  • Look for Foundation and Structural…

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Have you ever dreamed of hosting summer BBQs with friends and family without having to leave the comfort of your backyard? Enjoying the outdoors is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and there’s no better way to do it in Austin than with a custom-built outdoor kitchen. With a built-in grill, firepit, and more, you can make your outdoor patio space an extension of your home. Not only will you enjoy the aesthetic benefits associated with an outdoor kitchen, but you’ll also increase your home’s value. Let’s look at what it costs to build an outdoor kitchen in Austin and all of the benefits that come along with it. 

What Are The Benefits of An Outdoor Kitchen in Austin? 

There are numerous benefits associated with having an outdoor kitchen in…

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An image of the downtown austin skyline across a lakeDowntown Austin has become a popular place to live and work. There are many reasons why downtown Austin is growing at such a rapid pace. Its incredible music scene, friendly locals, close proximity to great shopping and dining options, easy access to public transportation, and scenic outdoor spaces all makeup part of what makes it so appealing. But did you know that it also boasts some of the best high-rise luxury condos in the nation? From stylish interiors to breathtaking skyline views, these condos are an investment opportunity you can’t afford to pass up. 

There are over 30 residential buildings in downtown Austin. Upcoming condominium developments on the rise include 44 East, Vesper, The Travis, and The Modern. An estimate of more than 20 towers…

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Popcorn Ceiling | Spyglass Realty

Asbestos can often be found in popcorn ceilings and other textured ceilings. This naturally-occurring material that was commonly used as an industrial insulator has also been identified as a hazardous substance. Over 39,000 American lives are lost due to asbestos-related diseases every year. 

Testing for asbestos is important if you are worried about the presence of asbestos in your home. In over thousands of real estate transactions I’ve had, I never had an issue with a property that had asbestos in it until this occurred. I had a client call me and ask if a home had asbestos in the popcorn ceiling, I brought it up to my contractor who shrugged it off, put on a mask, and scraped it right off.

In this blog post, I'll explain and share with you…

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8 great energy-efficient upgrades that yield a good ROIMaking home improvements is a worthwhile investment if planned strategically. Not all embellishments, remodels, or builds will yield a good return on investment (ROI). Fortunately, homeowners seeking to integrate green and energy-efficient features into their houses will find these 8 upgrades bring a great ROI.

Energy-STAR Appliances

Traditionally, appliances were designed for convenience, not energy efficiency. Unfortunately, they were a huge draw on both electricity and water. Today, homeowners can enjoy convenience while simultaneously enjoying a greener lifestyle. Energy-efficient appliances yielding a strong ROI include clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, and standalone freezers for those with space. Homeowners should…

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Are Hidden Risks in the Home Jeopardizing Family Safety? Learn More Here!It may come as a surprise to many homeowners that, even with the greatest precautions taken when constructing or remodeling a home, many hidden dangers can still hide. Here, we'll discuss some of the most common home risks and safety hazards.

Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer

Statistics estimate that every year, emergency rooms see an average of 50,000 Americans suffering accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Because it's silent, colorless, and odorless, CO inhalation can—and does—go undetected by homeowners who aren't prepared.

The risk of CO poisoning increases in colder temperatures, as home heating runs longer, cars may be turned on before leaving a garage, and fireplaces start being used. When a CO source such as a gas stove or…

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Smart Tech Upgrades That Boost Your Home's Value and AppealMore of today's home buyers have grown up around technology, so smart homes are more desirable than ever. The inclusion of smart technology in the home is likely to attract more buyers and improve a home's marketability.

A large percentage of buyers are more amenable to buying a home with smart solutions already installed. Smart features are a convenience becoming more normalized in modern life. By installing the following desirable tech upgrades in your home, you can increase your return on investment and the home's appeal when it comes time to sell.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats are in high demand. In fact, 63% of buyers want a smart thermostat when they move in. It's no surprise; a smart thermostat offers benefits such as:

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7 Simple Ways to Improve Your Curb Appeal

First impressions really count when you're looking to sell your house. You must make it as attractive as possible to any potential buyers that happen to pass by. To do so, you'll have to work on your home's curb appeal.

Improving curb appeal doesn't have to be a particularly pricey endeavor. In fact, there are plenty of simple maintenance jobs you can do that will make your property that much more safe, eye-catching, and up its value to boot.

If you're looking to sell your home, these seven simple tips to improve its curb appeal will help you do it far faster.

If It's Broken, Fix It

One of the biggest turn-offs for prospective buyers is a home that looks rundown. If they can see that there's a lot of work to do to the outside, it…

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Homeowner without a home warranty stressing about the cost of fixing an applianceHome warranties are an optional type of coverage to help offset major expenses that might occur in a house. Many new homeowners opt to purchase a home warranty to safeguard themselves against large expenses if a major repair is needed. Homebuyers sometimes negotiate for the seller to cover the purchase of a home warranty, at least for the first year. Not quite sure about whether (or not) to get a home warranty? Here are the answers to commonly asked questions.

What is a Home Warranty?

Home warranties are coverage against the breakage of major home appliances and systems. Like any other warranty plan, it's a financial safeguard against unexpected major out-of-pocket expenses. Essentially, the home warranty covers issues that aren't protected by…

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Considering Home Security Options? These are the Top Options Available TodayHome security is improved largely due to the presence—especially visual presence—of home security systems. However, not all home alarm setups are the same or equally effective. Let's explore the pros and cons of different types of security systems for the home.

Monitored vs. Unmonitored Standard Security Systems

Two of the most standard alarm systems are professionally monitored and self-monitored installations. Self-monitored alarms tend to be more basic, but they can have additional bells and whistles. The key here is that authorities will not automatically be contacted should the system be triggered. They are very affordable and easy to remove and relocate when moving. Some systems have options for owners to receive real-time notifications…

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