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Lee Wetherington

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING IDEA

A 'first home' is so exciting. Here is a terrific idea to help the new homeowner celebrate - a toolbox!

It may not sound exciting, but a few well-chosen tools can be a welcome gift. Having the right tools on hand will make every task a little simpler, from putting up pictures to measuring the right spot for a sofa and even for small projects. So, where do you start?

Don't try to assemble the perfect toolbox. It is impossible to get everything a new homeowner might need. But there are a few essentials that are sure to be appreciated. Here is a short list of basics.

Hammer ~ A 16-ounce curved-claw hammer is a 'must have.' A smaller 12-ounce hammer is nice for working in tight areas.

Screwdrivers ~ Phillips and Flat Head. You will want to include a variety of sizes, as the right size is very important. You can never have too many screwdrivers!

Pliers ~ Again, there are several types. Try to have two or three slip-joint pliers, a pair of needle nose pliers and a bent needle-nose pair.

Level ~ The longer the level, the more accurate it is. A mason's level about four feet long is a great choice. You can pick up a two-foot level, too and toss that in the toolbox. A level line or a plumb line is a good thing to have and comes in handy for checking things that are too long for a standard level.

Measuring devices ~ Tape rules come in all forms today, including easy-to-read models and those with electronic readings. Buy a long one, at least 20 feet, and a wide one. A wide blade can be pulled out horizontally for a fair distance without bending or buckling.

If you are feeling generous, you could also include a drill, a small hand saw, a couple of chisels, a variety of utility knives and, of course, a tool box to put them all in. And, don't forget to toss in a box of Band-Aids and a pair of googles..

EVALUATING THAT HOME

Appraisers and home inspectors evaluate different aspects of a home.. The appraisal assures the market value for the buyer and the lender. The home inspection focuses on the physical elements of the property and doesn't consider the value or the potential value.

An appraisal is usually ordered and required by a lender to estimate the value of a property to ensure that the house is marketable in the event the buyer should default on the loan. An appraisal considers the age of the home, its condition, floor plan, amenities, square footage, the size of the lot, improvements, location and the recent sales of any comparable homes.

The home inspection identifies items that need to be repaired or replaced and estimates the useful life of major systems, equipment, the structure itself and the finishes. The inspection doesn't comment on or ascertain cosmetic imperfections, nor does it assign a value to the property or any of its elements. A general home inspection does not include a termite inspection. This is a separate inspection, required in Florida, is performed by an termite inspector.

Having a professional home inspection before you list your property can give you an unbiased evaluation of its physical condition and clue you in as to recommended repairs and necessary updates. By tending to these matters before your home goes on the market you may avoid problems, disputes and/or delays later. Even if your home is pre-inspected, the buyer will generally order and pay for an additional inspection. Since the buyer will bear the expense of these inspections and appraisals most sellers opt to forego this additional expense

Your real estate professional can supply you with a list of inspectors and appraisers for you to choose from should you decide to contract these services before you list your property.