July in the Perkiomen Valley has already proven to be HOT. Here are some action steps that will help to keep your home comfortable, are considered good investments of time and dollars and will help keep your home "market ready". While these are most applicable for homes with central air, the concepts can be adapted for homes with window A/C units.
Buyers like to know that a major system has been regularly maintained. Twice a year have your HVAC system checked and serviced. If you haven't done already, schedule the service so you can enjoy greater efficiency, comfort and possibly lower utility costs. Remember to change the filter as indicated. Nothing brings doubt to a home inspection like a dirty filter!
Buyers look for this up-date. A programmable thermostat. Since A/C is the largest user of summer electric costs it's good to be able to control the time and duration as well as temperature based upon your needs. (Some newer window A/C units offer this feature).
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Buyers view as one less thing they will need to do. Install ceiling fans. These are a great way to keep your home comfortable summer and winter. Used in conjunction with a programmable thermostat you can stay comfortable at a higher temperature through the hottest parts of the day and evenings.
Buyers are first attracted by curb appeal. If your home is like mine, the A/C unit is visible from the street at the side of my home. I have been told that by shading the A/C unit and keeping the immediate surroundings weed free my unit will run more efficiently. As we up-date our landscaping, shading the A/C unit will be included.
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Here are additional ways to help keep your home cool; close the blinds, shades and curtains/drapes at the sunniest windows; close vents in rooms you do not use; change to energy efficient light bulbs; don't use the oven; be sure to use the bathroom fan when showering. As already mentioned in last week's blog, caulking helps to keep your home protected and comfortable.
What have you found helpful to keep your home comfortable? I would really enjoy learning from your experiences.
(Buyer insights are based upon client and agent feedback).
Margot is a full time Realtor at RE/MAX 440; 4092 Skippack Pike, Skippack, PA (610)-306-7939 cell (610)-584-1160 office www.margotaronson.com
