Whether you’re moving somewhere new or you’re fixing up a place you hold near and dear, renovating in the wintertime can have both its pros and cons. Even with the exciting projects you likely have in store, there are absolutely some safety and comfort concerns that might come into play when you begin whatever project you want to accomplish. Whether you’re going big with building and construction or you’re simply knocking out a wall or two, here are a few safety tips.

 

1. Keep an Eye on Weather Advisories 

This is a handy tip whenever you do something in the wintertime, but especially when you’re balancing something as sensitive and important as construction and building. If you happen to be doing any of your projects outside, you don’t want to have to deal with snow, ice, or wind-advisory gusts.

 

2. Stay Bundled Up 

Safety hazards can also be about personal safety, not just site safety. If the weather outside is frightful, make sure you, and everybody working with you, has the proper attire to stay warm and healthy. Even if you think you might not need it, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

 

3. Check Your Equipment Daily

Even though it’s always important to check your equipment when working in construction or renovations, it can be especially important to do this during the winter. You should always run a daily inspection before operating in order to find any cracks, leaks, drainage issues, safety indicator lights, tire pressure, and more.

 

4. Clean Debris Early in the Season

If you’re working on the outdoor portion of things, making sure you’ve cleared away everything that could be potentially damaging is crucial. Make sure you clean out your gutters to stay protected from falling ice and rake the leaves in your yard to keep them from freezing and clumping. You don’t need any more to deal with than the task at hand, so keeping a clean area from the jump can keep things going much more smoothly.

 

5. Remove Snow and Ice Regularly

If you’re somewhere that has a lot of snow, it might be best to remove it regularly throughout the construction project. Even if you aren’t working directly outside, you need a clear path for materials and movement throughout the space. This makes everything easier and more convenient no matter what.

 

6. Require Masks

Requiring that everyone wear masks during a winter project can help prevent all kinds of illnesses, so make sure everyone stays masked up. Masks can also help ensure everyone stays warm and protect your faces from dust and debris while you work!

 

7. Build In Extra Time

The winter can bring all kinds of scheduling conflicts, delays and obstacles into your project — from material shortages to simple snow days. One of the best ways to avoid falling behind is to build in extra time from the jump so that when these delays happen, you aren’t put out. If you get past them quickly, you’ll be ahead of schedule anyway!

 

8. Keep It Inside

By focusing on smaller, indoor renovations in the roughest part of the season, you can use your time wisely and effectively. Paint and do indoor DIY projects when you know the weather is rough!

 

Safety in Winter Renovations

There are many ways you can protect yourself and your crew while you work on your next home improvement project. From watching the weather to wearing masks when appropriate, you can make your home a dream destination without any safety concerns this winter.

A home renovation is a great way to add value and satisfaction to your beloved abode. After all, who doesn’t love stepping into a new room, a finished basement, or a renovated bathroom?

However, before “undertaking any of the character-building, heavy-lifting labor” there’s the time-consuming and costly process of obtaining renovation permits. How long a permit can be approved depends on the scale of the project. For smaller renovations, it may take as little as 24 hours. Expectedly, larger projects might take longer so homeowners may have a bit of a wait on their hands. So who says it isn’t tempting to save a bit of time and money skipping that step entirely and pushing ahead with your planned renovations?

Well if you do, prepare to face some terrible consequences. Unpermitted work refers to any modifications made to the home that should have been permitted but were not.

Aside from a sunken property value, your biggest risk may lie in the job itself. Without the proper permits, there’s no guarantee that your contractors will execute a professional job. The results of this could be disastrous. For instance, if you sell, those substandard improvements might cause you trouble during a home inspection.

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It’s a nightmare to think about, but it means big trouble if your municipality or city office finds out you’re renovating sans-permits. Some cities will only inspect, but some will issue a stop-work order and may even slap a hefty fine on both the homeowner and contractor. Worse still, the city could order a teardown of the entire project with a subsequent order to redo any work done with the proper permits finally in hand.

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Another area of concern is that any unpermitted additions may not be covered, and even violate your insurance policy. It is especially concerning if an accident or disaster occurred in that part of your home. If there’s been a house fire caused by faulty wiring due to poor electrical work, or if someone fell and seriously injured themselves you could be facing a costly nightmare.

Filing an insurance claim for a scenario like this could be futile; your policy probably isn’t going to cover the issue, additionally, you may be heading towards a complicated, costly lawsuit.

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As we mentioned earlier, failing to get permits could cause the value of your home to drop. Why? For starters, real estate information in your local municipality needs to be up to date to help maintain home values and stay current with taxes and insurance. Renovation permits will help ensure that your property keeps up with the latest health and safety standards.

When you sell, an appraiser will assess your home in order to gauge its objective market value. Any unpermitted work brought into concern because of safety defects could depreciate your home’s value. Even worse, you could be fined with the appraiser also demanding that the work be removed and redone—this time with proper permits secured. Likewise, any room additions not up to code will be excluded in the square footage stated in your “updated”  home listing. That means buyers will think your home is smaller than it really is.

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Notwithstanding the huge laundry list of features and amenities potential buyers look for in a new home, above all is a safe and secure place. Should they discover the house they’re looking at has undergone an unpermitted structural remodel, it can imbue them with uncertainty, causing a loss of confidence in your property, and resulting in some serious purchase reconsiderations.

The buyer might think you hired someone unqualified to do the work because you didn’t even bother getting permits. They may feel that the completed renovation is unsafe, leaving them clouded with worry about long-term problems down the line. A good buyer’s agent is going to make sure that permits were pulled on any significant additions done to the property, so there’s no escaping the consequences. However, if permits were secured for the renovations, concerns like these all go out the window, with the buyer immediately given peace of mind and assurance, enticing them to make a good and reasonable offer.

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Well, it might be overreacting, but not getting permits for a significant modification or addition can stop a home sale. Wait, what?

You heard right! Once your home has entered the market, a subsequent home inspection and appraisal will follow as is required by the selling process. The inspector will ensure that buyers know exactly what they’re getting while the appraiser will look to protect the interests of the bank or lending institution, ensuring proper standards are met before they approve the loan. Both professionals can easily request public records on your home, including the permits (or lack thereof) for any improvements made, assuring that the property is not only habitable but in good working order.

It could cost you the home sale if the bank doesn’t want to fund the loan because the appraiser’s requests were not met, or if the potential buyer backed out due to personal uncertainty with regard to property safety and structural integrity.  

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Admittedly, securing a renovation permit can be a hassle. You have to provide your local municipality with your detailed plans for the remodel, as well as additional documentation if needed. Moreover, permits come with corresponding fees.

However, proceeding to push through with a renovation without proper paperwork can lead to dire consequences, as discussed above. The commonalities shared by those risks are time wasted, money squandered and maybe a forthcoming lawsuit. Not to mention, most likely you’d also be required to undo all the work done, taking you and your home back to square one on what could have been a great addition.

 

Tips:

• Know what renovations require permits. Any substantial, structural, or significant remodel requires the homeowner or seller to get a permit. These major renovations could include electrical or plumbing work, basement refurbishment, or room addition. However, if you are only updating or sprucing up an existing space, then permits might not be necessary.

• Consult with your city building committee. However, building codes and the legal requirements to pull a permit vary with every city. With this in mind, it’s important to check with your local municipality or city building code committee to make sure there won’t be any problem before you tear down a wall or remodel anything.

• Hire only licensed and reputable contractors. You can rest assured that they won’t work without securing proper permits, giving you peace of mind that their work will be up to code.

Get Ready To Buy a Home in 2025

If buying a home is on your goal sheet this year, here’s how to make it happen. Focus on improving your credit, planning for your down payment, getting pre-approved, and prioritizing your wish list. But first, let’s connect so you have expert advice every step of the way.

EXCLUSIVE Listing

    

The Listing Team @ Real Estate Sales Force

814 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite #503

Coral Gables, FL 33134

954-342-6180

814 PONCE DE LEON BOULEVARD, 503, CORAL GABLES, FL 33134. 305.392.1497 © 2017 Real Estate Sales Force, Inc. All material presented herein is intended for information purposes only. While this information is believed to be correct, it is represented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. All property information, including, but not limited to square footage, room count, number of bedrooms and the school district in property listings are deemed reliable, but should be verified by your own attorney, architect or zoning expert.

Home renovations are a popular option, with 90% of homeowners planning a remodel. Updating your house gives it a modern appearance and adds resale value. Upgrades also allow you to stay in place longer, which is helpful due to low housing inventory. Here are the renovations that provide the best return on investment (ROI).

1. Update Your Garage Door

The first thing buyers notice is your home’s exterior. Updated garage doors are aesthetically pleasing and functional, so consider replacing your current ones with steel entryways. They are durable, affordable and require less maintenance. It costs around $500-$1,350 for the installation, but you will see a 93.8% ROI. 

If your budget is tight, give the doors a fresh coat of paint or replace the hardware. Also, adding insulation conserves energy and lowers your heating expenses. 

 

2. Enhance Your Exterior With Manufactured Stone Veneer

This material mimics the appearance of natural stone but is more affordable. The average price for stone veneers is about $8,250-$16,125. It’s also durable, lightweight and comes in various styles. Plus, it has a higher ROI of 92.1%. The material is perfect for your exterior siding and will enhance your curb appeal. You can also add it around your fireplace.

 

3. Remodel Your Kitchen

An updated kitchen is a popular amenity for many homeowners. Remodeling your kitchen can give you an ROI of 72.2%, so it’s well worth the effort. You can repaint or add stainless steel hardware. If you want a classic look, whites, grays or beiges are excellent choices. To add more character, go with blues, greens or reds. 

Also, buy energy-efficient appliances, which will lower your monthly expenses. If you have more room in the budget, upgrade your countertops or add a tile backsplash. Marble or granite are popular for their elegant appearance. These renovations make the space more modern and functional. 

Before starting the project, have your budget in mind. The average kitchen remodel ranges from $13,484 to $38,089.

 

4. Replace Your Windows

Updating your windows will enhance your exterior. Add vinyl windows, which are affordable and provide better insulation, for about $400-$800. They are also easy to maintain and block out the sound of traffic. Plus, they offer a significant ROI value of 68.6%.

 

5. Add a Deck

Many homeowners want a space for outdoor entertaining. In fact, a deck addition can recoup about 65.8% of its original value. It’s the perfect place for family gatherings or birthday parties and also gives you a space to relax when the weather is nice. Consider building a wooden deck, which is eco-friendly and cost-effective. It costs about $85 per square foot to install a patio. 

If you plan to complete the demolition yourself, use a skid tractor, which is smaller in size. Be sure to pay attention to your blind spots and practice hand signals. You can also spruce up the space with a fire pit, outdoor kitchen or comfortable lounging area.

 

6. Upgrade Your Front Door

Adding a steel door entryway increases your property’s curb appeal. Steel doors also protect against the elements and better insulation. Plus, the strong material improves your home’s security. It costs around $352 to install but can give you an ROI of 65%.

 

7. Renovate Your Bathroom

Quality bathrooms are major selling points for buyers. Updating your bathroom can give you an ROI of 60.1%. This is pretty good, considering you will spend about $10,000 on the project. Start by updating fixtures, such as your toilet, sinks or showers. Replace your showerhead with a low-flow faucet to conserve water and save money. 

You can also repaint, update your lighting or add tile flooring. Consider adding radiant floor heating to keep you warm in the winter if it’s within your budget. Also, adding more storage increases the space’s function, such as floating shelves above the sink or decorative baskets. Double vanities are a convenient addition if you have a larger family.

 

Renovations Projects to Increase Your Home’s Value 

Remodeling your home is a great way to improve your space and add resale value. There are many projects you can choose from. Consider these suggestions to get the most value out of your next renovation.  

Comparing the Cost of Moving Yourself vs. Hiring Movers

Relocating is a big step that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Planning is key whether you’re moving alone, with a partner, or with your family. One of your biggest decisions is whether to move yourself or hire professional movers. This guide compares the cost and breaks down considerations for each option, helping you decide which might be more economical for your next relocation.

Upfront Costs

First, let’s explore the typical initial costs of moving and the associated factors of each option.

Moving Yourself

When moving on your own, the costs are initially straightforward. You’ll probably need to rent a truck and purchase packing materials, unless you already have both things. The cost of renting a truck depends on how far and how much you’re transporting, so this expense can vary. There is also the physical cost of moving yourself, as lifting boxes all day can take a toll on your body.

Professional Movers

Depending on the scope of services you purchase, professional movers can take up a significant portion of your moving budget. However, the high cost comes with unique benefits. For instance, some moving companies can assist with packing, furniture assembly, and temporary storage to protect your items. Movers also provide efficiency and experience, packing and transporting your belongings quickly and securely.

Hidden Costs

Unfortunately, whether relocating on your own or working with movers, you may encounter expenses you do not originally budget for.

Moving Yourself

DIY moves come with hidden costs beyond the truck and boxes. For example, the cost of gas in a moving truck or your personal vehicle can add up quickly, especially for long-distance moves. Unexpected delays can also lead to unforeseen expenses, such as rental extensions and overnight accommodation if your move extends beyond the planned timeline.

Professional Movers

When hiring professional movers, it’s essential to be aware of potential hidden costs. These might include extra fees for heavy items, stairs, or long carry distances. Avoid surprises by getting a detailed quote that outlines every possible charge.

Long-Term Savings

When considering the cost of a relocation, you must forecast expenses that could arise after your moving day.

Moving Yourself

Moving on your own can save money upfront, but it often leads to unexpected expenses. Hours and days of manual labor cost time and energy, which can result in lost income if you need to take time off work. Some people find that the money they save by not hiring movers is spent fixing damaged items or replacing broken belongings during the move.

Professional Movers

One of the most common misconceptions about hiring moving services is that it is not cost-effective. Hiring professionals might seem like a more considerable investment initially, but it often saves more time and stress in the long run. Movers handle logistics, allowin g you to focus on other aspects of relocating, like setting up utilities or helping children adjust to a new environment.

Which Is More Cost-Effective?

Choosing between moving yourself or hiring movers is easier after comparing the cost, and it depends on your household’s needs and circumstances. If you prefer control and have the time to spare, a DIY move might suit you. However, if you value convenience and peace of mind, consider investing in professional help.

How To Know if Your Fire Escape Is in Need of Repair

Fire escapes serve as a critical safety feature for any property, offering tenants a lifeline during  emergencies. Keeping these structures functional isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s a direct responsibility for tenant safety. Neglected fire escapes can lead to serious hazards and liability issues. If you’re wondering how to assess whether your fire escape might need attention, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to know if your fire escape is in need of repair.

Signs To Look For

Start with a close look at the physical condition of your fire escape. If you see visible rust, missing bolts, or cracks in the metal framework, it’s a clear warning sign that repairs are necessary. Loose or unstable steps and railings pose immediate risks to anyone attempting to use the structure.

Signs of peeling paint or exposed metal can indicate corrosion, which could weaken the overall stability. Pay attention to whether the escape feels unstable or wobbly underfoot—this is a strong indicator that it’s time to address issues through the fire escape repair process.

Legal and Safety Requirements 

Compliance should be at the forefront of your mind because of the heavy regulations for fire escapes. Most local building codes require periodic inspection and maintenance to meet safety standards. Skipping these inspections can lead to costly fines, legal action, and increased liability in case of accidents.

Familiarize yourself with your city or state’s specific legal requirements. For example, some areas mandate external inspections every five years, while others might require annual checks. Staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about reducing risks for everyone who enters your property.

Conduct a Hands-On Inspection

Conducting a proper inspection begins with a hands-on approach. Check for structural stability by moving each section of the escape, focusing on stairs and railings. Inspect joints and connections for signs of wear or damage.

Verify that all moving parts, such as ladders, function smoothly without sticking. It’s equally important to check the escape’s attachment points to the building to ensure they’re secure. Neglecting these steps can lead to small issues turning into major repair projects.

Hiring a Professional 

When repairs go beyond basic fixes, hiring a qualified contractor becomes necessary. Seek professionals with specific experience in fire escape repair. Look for contractors who understand construction and local safety codes to avoid subpar work. Carefully vet their credentials and past work to make sure you’re hiring someone who can get the job done right the first time.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance 

A well-maintained fire escape meets legal requirements and provides peace of mind. Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from escalating into larger, costlier problems. By maintaining a consistent schedule for inspections and updates, property managers enhance the safety and value of their buildings. Staying proactive ensures you can handle emergencies and protect tenants and your property.

Now that you know how to know if your fire escape is in need of repair, you understand why they’re too important to ignore. Regular inspections, consistent maintenance, and timely repairs protect your tenants and your reputation as a property manager. If it’s been a while since you assessed your fire escape, now’s the time to prioritize the fire escape repair process and ensure that critical safety measures are firmly in place.

Home Staging FAQ: What You Need To Know

Home Staging FAQ: What You Need To Know

You may have heard that staging your home properly can make a big difference when you sell your house, but what exactly is home staging, and is it really worth your time and effort?

Here are a few quick FAQs that can help you decide how much you should prioritize staging as you prep for your move.

What Is Home Staging?

Staging is the process of arranging and decorating your house to highlight its best features and make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers. It can range from simple touch-ups to more extensive setups, depending on your needs and budget.

How Does It Help Me Sell My House?

Studies show good staging does have an impact on your sale. Staging your house well can help you attract more attention from buyers, which ultimately helps it sell faster and maybe for a higher price than an unstaged home (see visual):

What Are My Staging Options?

Now that you see the value, let’s think through your options. The most common is leaning on your agent for their expert advice. They know what buyers like because they’re in showings all the time and hear that feedback first-hand. That expertise is crucial to getting your house market-ready. Basic staging with an agent usually means they give you insight into how you should:

• Declutter and depersonalize by removing photos and personal items

• Arrange your furniture to improve the room’s flow and make it feel bigger

• Add plants, move art, or re-arrange other accessories

Full-service staging is another option if your house needs more hands-on attention. This is when you hire a staging professional or staging company to come in, make recommendations, and do the work for you. Going this route is more involved and that makes it more costly too. That’s because it can include renting furniture and decor to more fully transform a space.

How Do I Know Which One To Pick?

Not sure which one you need? You don’t have to figure that out on your own. Your real estate agent will help determine what level of staging will make the most impact on your house and market.

They can help you decide if professional staging is worth the investment, or if you can knock it out with their advice alone. And just so you know, here are some of the factors an agent will look at to figure that out:

• Market Conditions: If the market is slower, going all in on staging can make your home look move-in ready and attractive to buyers who may otherwise be hesitant. If your local market is very active and homes are selling fast, you may be able to get by with doing less.

• Your Home’s Condition: If your home is vacant or has a unique layout, using a professional stager who can bring in the right furniture and accessories may help buyers truly visualize its full potential.

• Your Budget: Talk to your agent to get an idea of staging costs in your area, as it can be the difference between your house selling and sitting. But if your budget is tight or your home only needs minor updates, your real estate agent can help you think outside of the box by suggesting simple DIY staging tips to help your home look its best.

Bottom Line

Staging your house properly can make it much more attractive to buyers, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and every home shines differently. Let’s connect to talk through what your home really needs to stand out and sell for top dollar. 

As we step into 2025, the New Year brings fresh opportunities and a chance to turn your real estate dreams into reality. At The Listing Team @ RESF, we’re excited to help South Florida homeowners and buyers navigate this thriving market. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest, 2025 promises to be a year filled with potential.

Reflecting on 2024: Growth and Gratitude

Looking back at 2024, it’s clear that South Florida remains one of the most desirable places to live and invest. From Miami luxury homes to Pembroke Pines family neighborhoods, the region’s dynamic real estate market has continued to attract buyers from across the country.

We’re grateful for the trust our clients have placed in us. Helping families find their dream homes, guiding sellers to achieve top-dollar sales, and supporting investors in seizing opportunities have been the highlights of our year.

Why 2025 Is the Perfect Year for Real Estate in South Florida

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to make a move, here’s why 2025 is ideal for South Florida real estate:

• Strong Demand: The South Florida housing market continues to thrive, with high interest in cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Pinecrest.

• Investment Opportunities: From waterfront properties to urban condos, there are numerous chances to grow your portfolio in a market that consistently appreciates.

• Lifestyle Upgrades: Whether you’re searching for a luxury Miami home or a cozy retreat in Pembroke Pines, South Florida offers homes that match every lifestyle.

Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate

At The Listing Team @ RESF, we’re here to simplify your journey in 2025. Our expertise in South Florida real estate ensures that your buying or selling experience will be smooth, strategic, and successful.

Here’s how we can help you:

1. Expert Knowledge: Whether you’re exploring the market in Miami, Pembroke Pines, or Pinecrest, we have the local expertise you need.

2. Innovative Tools: From virtual tours to home value estimators, we utilize cutting-edge technology to deliver top-tier service.

3. Community Focus: We understand the unique needs of South Florida homeowners and buyers, tailoring our services to your goals.

Ready to Make Your Move in 2025?

Let us help you achieve your real estate goals this year. Whether you’re ready to list your home in Pembroke Pines, explore Pinecrest real estate opportunities, or invest in Miami properties, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Us Today
Reach out to The Listing Team @ RESF to start your journey in South Florida real estate. Let’s make 2025 your most prosperous year yet!

New Year, New Home: How To Make It Happen in 2025

New Year, New Home: How To Make It Happen in 2025

This is the time when a lot of people take a moment to reflect and set their goals for this year. And as you picture what you want your 2025 to look like, one thing that may pop into your mind is the vision of you in a new home. But how do you get there? And where do you start?

Here’s some advice that can help you get the ball rolling.

Focus on Your Why

To lay the foundation, you need to focus on your why. While the dollars and cents are important, so is the driving force behind your desire to move. Maybe you need more space for a growing family, want to sell so you can downsize, or are finally ready to buy your first home. Whatever your reason, it’s important to keep it front and center.

Your why is what helps you stay focused. Share your motivation with your agent and they’ll use their expertise to help support that goal, no matter what the market looks like. With a great agent by your side, you’ll have someone to guide you, problem-solve, and keep you moving forward until you can check that goal off your to-do list.

Get Clear on What You Need

Then it’s time to figure out what your next home needs to have. How many bedrooms do you need? If you don’t have a designated home office, is that a deal-breaker? What about a big fenced-in backyard? Knowing your must-haves and nice-to-haves makes the search a lot smoother.

Since affordability is still tight, it’s important to have a clear idea of your essential items upfront. Maybe you can flex a bit on location, if it’s got everything else you’re looking for. Go over those essential items with your agent and they’ll help you focus on the homes that check the boxes that matter most while staying within your price range.

Know Your Numbers

Before you jump in, take a look at your finances. How much have you saved? What monthly payment feels comfortable? Getting clear on your budget early will help you know what’s possible.

The best way to do this is by partnering with trusted real estate professionals, like a local agent and a lender. They’ll help you:

• Plan for your down payment and look into down payment assistance programs

• Understand the equity you have in your current home and how you can use it to fuel your next move if you’re selling

• Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you know what you can borrow

Lean on a Pro To Guide You

It can be hard to know where to start, but you don’t have to do it alone. A real estate agent knows what you need to do to get ready to buy or sell, how to navigate the process, and can answer your questions every step of the way. As Bankrate puts it:

“. . . now more than ever, it’s smart to lean on the guidance of an experienced local real estate agent. If you want to enter the housing market in 2025, whether as a buyer or a seller, let a pro lead the way for you.”

Remember, buying or selling is a big milestone and a great goal for this year. With the right expert on your team, you’ll feel confident and ready to take on the market.

Bottom Line

If buying or selling a home is part of your goals for 2025, now’s the time to get started. Focus on your why, know what you need, and connect with trusted pros to make it happen. Let’s team up and make this the year you accomplish your real estate resolutions.