Industry News • August 2, 2022

Here’s Where The Housing Market Is Headed In The Second Half of 2022

by Gerald Robertson

Is now a good time to consider selling your home or buying a new one? It’s a good question to ask as the pendulum swings in the housing market. What’s in store for the rest of 2022? Let’s take a look at the factors ahead that will likely influence your decisions.

The Impact of Inflation on Mortgage Rates

The pandemic era’s record-low mortgage rates that enabled lightning-fast home sales in many housing markets around the country were an anomaly, not a new norm. While it’s no secret that the recent record-high inflation has caused ripple effects across many industries, it’s not as clear how this will affect the market.

If inflation continues to rise, mortgage rates will almost certainly respond to it.

“Until inflation peaks, mortgage rates won’t either. Without improvement on the inflation front, we don’t know where the interest rate ceiling will be,” stated Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate.

When rates rise, it affects your ability to afford a home, so whether you plan to buy or sell, mortgage rates are a key consideration.

Increase in Homes for Sale

Over the past few months, more homes have entered the market for sale. While this has certainly been driven by more homes being listed, increased mortgage rates reducing the incentive for buyers to purchase has also played a role. When buyer interest slows, home sales decrease, leaving more available homes for sale in the market.

This increase in available homes is expected to continue to rise, and likely dramatically. This is favorable if you’d like to see more options among for-sale homes. However, it may not be wise to be too choosy. While it won’t be nearly as challenging to find a home, there won’t be a sudden surplus for you to choose from, so it may be best to make the best decision from what’s available to you.

Home Prices will Continue to Appreciate

The pandemic’s skyrocketing home prices were driven by a dramatic gap between the number of buyers looking for homes and the number of for-sale homes. CoreLogic reported that 2021 saw a 21% appreciation in home values, and this has continued into 2022.

While the number of for-sale homes is increasing, there is still more buyer demand than home inventory, which continues to push home prices up. This is expected to cause prices to continue to rise rather than fall, but more slowly for the remainder of the year, a moderate 8.5%. If you plan to sell, the value of your home is expected to decrease, but waiting to buy could result in a higher cost for your next home. Consider making your move now before home prices rise even higher.

Is Now a Good Time to Enter the Housing Market

So is it a good time to jump into the housing market? As discussed above, several factors are causing a turning point in the housing market, which will very likely look different in the second half of 2022.

Buying or selling a home can have a significant effect on your finances, so understanding these influencing factors is critical to making the best decision possible. Partner with a real estate advisor who can help you navigate the changing market landscape and make the best plan for you and your move.

Home Buying • August 2, 2022

Questions to Ask When Touring a Property

by Gerald Robertson

When you’re ready to begin searching for a new home, it’s easy to get swept up in the process. The combination of an exciting prospect of a significant life change and the persuasive tactics of those trying to sell you that life can often lead to you leaving a property tour with no real information.

It’s always best to come prepared with a list of questions you can ask at the open house. Here are a few of the best hard-hitting questions to help jump-start your brainstorming.

Are There Any Structural Issues with the Home?

Being caught unaware of structural issues years from now is every homeowner’s nightmare. Ask this question when you view the home; the listing agent can provide you with an official seller’s disclosure that should help shed some light on the home’s health.

Has the Seller Made Any DIY Renovations?

DIY renovations made by the previous owners are notorious for causing problems down the line. And work that wasn’t completed by a licensed professional is also much more likely to incite a code violation. You should also always schedule a professional home inspection before your closing date.

What (If Any) Updates Have Been Made in the Home Since the Seller Purchased It, and When Were They Made?

Major updates, such as ones to the electrical, roof, or siding, will give you a good idea of what will need your attention in the coming years. A home inspection should also assist with this question, and inspectors can even estimate how long some features have left before they need to be fixed or replaced.

Is there an HOA, and What Are the Fees?

An HOA, or homeowner’s association, comes with a long strip of red tape: fees, regulations, and rules that apply to anyone who lives under the neighborhood umbrella. If the home has an HOA, get more information so you can research their requirements, including the annual fees or amenities cost.

On average, what is the Seller Spending on Utility Bills?

If you care about energy efficiency, you’ll want to make sure you ask this question. Learn what sort of energy the home uses and what the estimated cost of the utilities is. It will help bring the budget for your new home into focus.

How Old is the HVAC System?

Updating a new system can be costly, but old systems could cost you a fortune in utilities and repairs. Ask specifically about the HVAC system, as this will affect your overall comfort year-round. You can also check in with other systems like water heaters and plumbing fixtures.

Be Prepared When Buying a Home

Buying a home is an exciting, thrilling time in your life. But you don’t want to take off the rose-colored glasses years from now, only to wish you had learned more about your home.

These questions should help as a great jumping-off point, but take some time and ask yourself what things are crucial to you living a happy life in a new home. Discuss your list with your real estate agent so you can be on the same page and have an open, direct conversation about your needs.

By advocating for yourself and asking these essential questions, you’re on your way to a more enjoyable, stress-free home-buying journey.

Lifestyle • August 2, 2022

4 Easy School Night Dinners

by Gerald Robertson

The kids are finally heading back to school! When they get home, do you know what to make in the hour before that evening movie, backyard party or game night with friends? You deserve an easy, quick recipe that will amaze your kids and fuel them up for the night’s homework. Want something that will feel kind of fancy but also is really, actually simple to make? Then check out these four school night dinners, all found at Together as Family. Enjoy!

Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps

You can have these super-quick wraps done in less than half an hour, especially if you have some of the prep work done already. And who wouldn’t want to keep this simple salad dressing on hand at all times? This is almost literally a “throw everything together in a bowl and call it done” recipe, so if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a few other ingredients to fit your mood!

Ingredients

about 1 cup Caesar Salad dressing

1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup light tasting oil (avocado or extra virgin olive)
1/4 cup fresh Parmesan, shredded from a wedge if possible
2 tbs lemon juice (about 1 whole fresh squeezed)
2 tsp Dijon mustard
5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 clove garlic, crushed

about 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped / shredded, perhaps a rotisserie
9 oz romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 cup croutons
1/4 cup fresh Parmesan, shredded from a wedge if possible
3 roma tomatoes, chopped
6 large tortillas (whole wheat, green spinach, carb-balanced, or gluten free)

Instructions

Combine all Caesar Salad dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk together
In a large bowl, combine dressing with chicken, lettuce, croutons and cheese
Ready tortilla and scoop just less than a cup of the chicken mix into the center, then sprinkle on tomatoes and roll up the tortilla

Baked Ham and Cheese Sliders

These hot and fast sandwiches take a little time in the oven or sandwich press, but should still be done in less than an hour. Most of the ingredients are actually things you can buy ready to go at the store, and the result is a buttery, cheesy ham slider on a sweet bun. Like any sandwich, if you want to add something to the middle layers, go right ahead!

Ingredients

20-pack Hawaiian rolls
Jar of Mayonnaise
1 lb deli honey ham, thin sliced
8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded from a block if possible
Butter Sauce

5 tbs salted butter, melted
2 tsp dried onions, minced / flaked
2 tsp yellow mustard
1 tsp poppy seeds
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Cut the rolls into sandwich halves and place bottoms tightly into a 9×13 baking dish
Spread mayonnaise (as much as seems right) and layer on sliced ham, then sprinkle cheese evenly and add the roll tops back on
In a bowl, mix Butter Sauce ingredients with a fork, then use a spoon or brush to cover rolls in the dish while butter is still warm
Let the butter sauce cool and harden for about 10 minutes while you pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees F
Cover rolls in baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake 5 minutes more

Slow Cooker Chili Coney Dogs

Does a recipe count as quick and easy if you leave everything in a slow cooker for up to 5 hours? This recipe is best prepared at lunch time so that everything will be ready for dinner, at which point all you really need to do is assemble and chow down. Plus, everyone has their own favorite toppings, so no chili dog ever needs to be the same!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
Chili Sauce

15 oz tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
2 tbls Worcestershire sauce
1 tbls dried onion, minced / flaked
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp ground mustard
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
dash of spices (curry, cayenne)

8 hot dogs, beef or turkey
pack of buns
chili dog toppings (shredded cheese, fine chopped onion, relish, crumbled chips, etc.)

Instructions

Over medium heat, cook and crumble ground beef in a skillet pan until no longer pink, then drain grease (not down the sink!) and place back on heat
Add all Chili Sauce ingredients and stir, then let simmer
Coat inside of slow cooker or crock pot with cooking spray, then lay out the hot dogs neatly for even cooking and pour beef chili on top
Cover and cook on LOW for about 3 to 5 hours
Use tongs to retrieve hot dogs and place in buns, then scoop out beef chili and add along with toppings

Root Beer BBQ Shredded Chicken

This is another “quick” recipe that can take about 8 hours since you’re using the slow cooker again. If you trust the device to not boil over, you can set this up after breakfast and have soft, juicy chicken for dinner. This super-simple meal also makes great leftovers for sandwiches, throwing into a salad or atop fresh cooked rice. And kids love that their dinner was made using root beer!

Ingredients

4 large bone- and skin-less chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1.5 cups root beer (not diet, and other flavored sodas work fine too)
1.5 cups BBQ sauce

Instructions

Coat inside of slow cooker or crock pot with cooking spray, then lay out the chicken breasts neatly for even cooking
In a small bowl, whisk together all other ingredients before pouring over chicken
Cover and cook on LOW for about 8 hours
Serve in large pieces or shred with forks, keeping meat in the juices to stay moist

Home Decor • August 2, 2022

How to Set Up a Kid-Focused Homework Stations

by Gerald Robertson

One of the most beneficial ways to help your child look forward to doing homework is by creating a homework station! Designating a creative, peaceful space will encourage your child to build healthy studying habits and find ways to enjoy doing their homework. Keep reading in order to follow the steps for setting up a kid-focused homework station.

Choose a designated homework spot in your home

Ultimately, the spot you pick in your home should be free of noise and distractions. That’s the number one rule to creating an effective homework station. After finding a quiet space, decide how you’re going to set up the spot. You don’t have to set up a desk center- you could even set up a variety of floor cushions and create a studying nook! Start envisioning what you’d like the space to look like.

Stock your homework station with the necessary supplies

It is best to stock the homework station with supplies beforehand, so you and your child aren’t scrambling to find a pencil or marker. Some of the best suggestions for a homework station are pencils, pencil sharpener, a timer, or even fidget tools to help students with the hard task of sitting still while doing work!

Make sure your child has an adequate workspace

Don’t allow the homework workspace to become a place of clutter and chaos. Whatever you declare as the official homework workspace, ensure that it remains a place of peace and cleanliness. Feelings of clutter and stacked up toys and craft projects can lead to overwhelming feelings. This can make it hard to complete homework. You also want to make sure that your child has enough room to do their homework!

Establish rules for using the homework station

Set a routine for using the homework station. Teach your child what to expect when using it. One tip is to always be consistent. When your child asks to go do homework on the couch in front of the television, remind them that all homework needs to be completed at the designated homework station.

Help your child create and stick to a regular study schedule

Create a regular study schedule with your child. Maybe you both have time directly after school to get a snack and then work on homework at the homework station. When your child has a set expectation that each day they have to work at the homework station, it becomes a habit. Pick a time that works for both of you, and don’t stray from this schedule.

Check-in on their progress

Always check in with your child and ask them if they need any adjustments in the homework station. Maybe they don’t have enough room, or maybe they are struggling with focus. All study skills take time to develop, and continuing to have patience will greatly benefit your child in the long run. Eventually, you will find that your child will start going to the homework station all by themselves. Don’t forget to check in on their progress during the homework session, as each day is different, and your child may need a reminder that day to stay focused.

Home Maintenance • July 29, 2022

How to Fix Five of the Most Common Bathroom Problems

by Gerald Robertson

Are you dealing with a clogged drain, a leaky faucet, or another bathroom issue? If so, don’t despair! Fixing these problems is actually much easier than you might think. Read on for tips on how to take care of five of the most common bathroom problems.

Clogged Showerhead

A clogged showerhead can be a frustrating problem. Fortunately, it is also a problem that is fairly easy to fix. One simple solution is to fill a baggie with white vinegar and let the showerhead soak in the vinegar for a few hours. The vinegar will help to break up any buildup and make it easier to remove. In most cases, this will be enough to fix the problem. However, if the showerhead is still clogged, you may need to use a small brush to remove any remaining debris. With just a little effort, you should be able to get your showerhead working like new again.

Leaking Faucet

If you have a faucet that drips or leaks, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Not only is a leaking faucet a waste of water, but it can also end up costing you money on your water bill. The good news is that fixing a leaky faucet is usually a fairly easy task. In most cases, you will only need to replace the washer or O-ring to stop the leak. Of course, if your faucet is very old, it may be time to replace it entirely.

Clogged Toilet

A clogged toilet is another common bathroom problem. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to fix this issue. One simple solution is to use a plunger to try and dislodge the clog. If that doesn’t work, head to the kitchen for some dish soap. The soap’s slippery texture will help lubricate the clogged pipe and allow the lodged debris to slide down more easily. Plus, it’s a lot less messy than using a plunger! Pour about a half-cup of soap into the toilet bowl and wait a few minutes for it to work its magic. Then, flush the toilet and see if the clog has cleared.

Running Toilet

If your toilet won’t stop running, it’s definitely a problem that needs to be fixed. A running toilet can waste a lot of water and end up costing you money on your water bill. The good news is that this is usually an easy problem to fix. In most cases, you will only need to adjust the float arm. However, if that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the flapper or fill valve.

Hardwater Stains

To keep your bathroom looking its best, it’s important to learn how to remove hard water stains. There are a few different methods you can use, but one of the most effective is to mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process a few times. You can also try using a store-bought hard water stain remover, although these can be harsh on sensitive skin. Experiment with different products until you find one that works for you.

No matter what problem you’re dealing with, there’s a good chance that you can fix it yourself. With a little time and effort, you should be able to get your bathroom looking and functioning like new again.

Home Maintenance • July 29, 2022

Cool Off Your Energy Bill with These 4 Tips

by Gerald Robertson

It’s summertime, and that means your energy bill is going to go up! You’re not sure how to keep your house cool without using your air conditioner.

Lower your energy bill this summer by using these home cooling methods. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be doing your part to help the environment.

Cover Your Windows

There’s no denying that the sun can be a major source of heat, especially during peak daylight hours. That’s why it’s important to take steps to block out the sun’s heat, both inside and outside your home.

For the exterior of your home, consider window awnings or roll-down shades that can be operated remotely or put on a schedule. For your home interior, opt for insulated cellular shades or blinds that block out the sun and have reflective backing. Even fitted drapes that cover the interior blinds can help reduce heat in your home.

Turn on the Fans

One of the best ways to relieve your air conditioner is to circulate the cool air by running ceiling fans at the same time. This will allow your A/C unit to work less hard and can help to lower your energy bills. Another great option for cooling your home is to install a whole-house fan in your attic. These fans work by pulling in cool air from open windows and pushing it out through the attic vents. This not only helps to cool your home quickly, but it also gives your attic better ventilation, which can help to reduce the overall temperature of your home.

Adjust Your Thermostat

Having a thermostat that you can preset is very convenient. You can always have the temperature set for when you are home and also save on your energy bill.

Many new thermostats let you repeat daily settings or even control the temperature with an app. This is very handy if you forget to change the temperature before you leave for work or go on vacation. You can also save money by setting the temperature lower when you are not home and turning it up when you are home. This way, you are not heating or cooling an empty house. Pre-set thermostats are a great way to be energy efficient and save money.

Invest in Door Draft Stoppers

Door draft stoppers are a great way to keep the heat in and the cold out. They come in a variety of materials, so you can choose one that best fits your needs.

Magnetic door draft stoppers are great for doors that open and close frequently, as they won’t slide out of place. Fabric door draft stoppers can be decorated to match your décor and add a touch of style to your home. Plastic door draft stoppers are a budget-friendly option, and they are easy to install and remove.

No matter which type you choose, door draft stoppers are an effective way to prevent heat loss and help reduce your energy bills.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to see a decrease in your energy bill this summer. Not to mention, your home will stay cooler and be more comfortable for you and your family. Do your part to save energy and money this summer!

Home Selling • July 29, 2022

5 Questions to Ask a Prospective Listing Agent

by Gerald Robertson

You’re ready to sell your home, but you don’t know where to start.

When it comes time to sell your home, you want the best real estate agent on your side. But how do you choose the right one?

Here are five questions that will help you find a listing agent who is right for you and your needs.

“What’s your level of experience?”

Before you list your home with a real estate agent, it’s important to interview them to assess their experience and qualifications. One key question to ask is “What’s your level of experience?”

A real estate agent who has been in the business for many years will have a deep understanding of the local market and the process of listing and selling homes. They will also have a network of established relationships with other agents, which can be helpful when marketing your home. In addition, an experienced agent will be able to provide you with expert guidance and advice throughout the listing and selling process.

When interviewing a prospective listing agent, be sure to ask them about their level of experience in the business.

“What are your credentials and certifications?”

When you’re ready to list your home, you want to be sure you’re working with a knowledgeable and experienced agent. After all, the sale of your home is likely to be one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll ever make.

When meeting with a prospective listing agent, you’ll want to ask them about their credentials and certifications. Are they a member of the National Association of Realtors? Do they have any specialized designations, such as the Certified Residential Specialist designation? What courses and seminars have they taken to stay up to date on the latest trends in real estate?

By asking these questions, you can be confident that you’re working with an agent who has the knowledge and expertise to get your home sold quickly and for the best possible price.

“How well do you know the area?”

One of the key questions to ask is “How well do you know the area?” It’s important that your agent has intimate knowledge of the neighborhood where your home is located. They should be familiar with the local schools, parks, and amenities. They should also know about any upcoming development projects that could impact your home’s value.

A good agent will have this knowledge and be able to answer any of your questions about the area. If they can’t, it may be time to look for someone else.

“What will you do to market my home?”

Marketing your home is one of the most important things your listing agent will do. It’s important to find an agent who has a plan to market your home to the right buyers. When interviewing a prospective listing agent, be sure to ask them “What will you do to market my home?”

A good agent should have a comprehensive marketing plan that includes online and offline strategies. They should also be able to provide you with a list of recent homes they’ve successfully sold and explain how they marketed those homes. With the right listing agent, you can be confident that your home will get the exposure it deserves.

“How long do your listings typically stay on the market?”

When you’re interviewing a prospective listing agent, be sure to ask them about their experience with listings in your area. You’ll want to know how long their listings typically stay on the market as well as what kind of results they’ve been able to achieve for their sellers.

An experienced agent will be able to give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of time on the market and eventual selling price. They should also be able to provide you with a list of recent comparable sales in the area. With this information in hand, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision about whether or not to list your home with that particular agent.

Home Decor • July 29, 2022

5 Features for a Kid-Friendly Home

by Gerald Robertson

It’s hard to keep your house clean when you have kids. Between the messes they make and all the toys they leave lying around, it feels like you’re constantly cleaning up.

A kid-friendly home doesn’t have to be a messy one. Here are 5 features that can help you create a clean, organized, and safe space for your little ones.

Don’t let kids take over your life — create a kid-friendly home that’s fun for all. With these 5 easy tips, you’ll be able to manage the mess and still have some peace and quiet.

Vinyl Floors

If you have young children, then you understand how important it is to have a kid-friendly home. Every parent wants a safe and comfortable space in which their children can play and explore. When it comes to flooring, many parents choose vinyl floors because they are durable and easy to clean.

Vinyl floors are a great option for busy families because they can withstand heavy foot traffic and are resistant to stains and spills. Plus, vinyl floors are usually softer than other types of flooring, making them more comfortable for little ones who are crawling or learning to walk. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that vinyl floors are a popular choice among families with young children.

Semigloss Paint

As any parent knows, kids can be hard on walls. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style when it comes to your child’s room. Using semigloss paint is a great way to achieve a look that is both stylish and kid-friendly.

Semigloss paints are available in a wide variety of colors, so you can easily find one that coordinates with the rest of your child’s room. Best of all, semigloss paints are very easy to clean, so you won’t have to spend hours scrubbing away crayon marks and fingerprints. Whether you choose a classic white or a bolder color, semigloss paint is a great way to create a space that is both stylish and functional.

Rounded Furniture

As anyone who has ever raised a child knows, children have a tendency to explore their surroundings by touching, bumping, and banging into everything. This can result in a lot of bumps and bruises, as well as some serious injuries. To help prevent accidents, it is important to choose furniture that is rounded, with no sharp corners. There are many great-looking pieces of furniture on the market today that provide this type of protection. By choosing these types of products, you can live worry-free for a long time, knowing that your children are safe from harm.

Closed Storage

It is important for parents to have a place to store all children’s toys, clothes, and other belongings. It is also important to make sure that these items are out of reach of the child. A great way to achieve this is by choosing furniture with closed storage. This type of furniture typically has doors or drawers that can be closed, keeping your child’s belongings safe and out of sight.

In addition to being functional, closed storage furniture is also very stylish. You can find many great pieces that will coordinate with the rest of your child’s room. By choosing furniture with closed storage, you can create a space that is both organized and safe for your child.

Floating Vanities

A floating vanity is a great way to save space in your bathroom. Not only do they look sleek and modern, but they are also very functional. When your children need to use a stool to reach the faucets, you can simply tuck the stool under the vanity and out of the way. This prevents anyone from stubbing their toe on the stool when they are not using it.

Floating vanities are also very easy to clean. You don’t have to worry about cleaning around the legs of the vanity or the different nooks and crannies that can collect dirt and dust. Overall, floating vanities are a great option for anyone who is looking for a modern and stylish solution for their bathroom.

If you’re considering renovating your home to make it more kid-friendly, be sure to keep these five features in mind. And if you’re ready for a total overhaul, contact me — I would be happy to help!

Home Maintenance • June 6, 2022

8 Signs Your Home Has a Foundation Problem

by Gerald Robertson

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your home’s foundation until there’s a problem. And by then, it can be too late. Foundation problems can be expensive to repair, so it’s important to know the signs of a problem and take action before it’s too late. Here are eight signs that your home has a foundation problem.

Cracks in the Wall

One of the most common signs of a foundation problem is cracks in the walls both inside and outside the home. These cracks can signal that the foundation is settling or that there is water damage. If you see cracks in your walls, it’s important to have them checked by a professional to determine the cause.

Doors and Windows are Sticking or Unaligned

Another common sign of a foundation problem is doors and windows that are sticking or out of alignment. If you notice that your doors or windows are hard to open or close or that they don’t line up correctly, it could be a sign of a foundation problem.

Gaps Around Doors and Windows

In addition to doors and windows that are sticking or out of alignment, you may also notice gaps around doors and windows. These gaps can be caused by the foundation settling or shifting. If you see gaps around your doors and windows, it’s important to have them checked by a professional.

Uneven Floors

Many homeowners don’t give a second thought to their floors as long as they’re level and provide a comfortable surface to walk on. However, uneven floors can actually be a sign of serious foundation problems. As the soil beneath the foundation settles, it can cause the floors above to become unlevel. In some cases, this can even lead to cracks in the walls or ceiling. If you notice that your floors are starting to feel uneven, it’s important to have a professional inspect your foundation for damage.

Chimney is Leaning

A leaning chimney is often the first sign that a home is suffering from foundation problems. The weight of the chimney can cause the foundation to settle, and over time, this can lead to cracks and even collapse. In addition, a leaning chimney can also put stress on the roof, leading to leaks and other damage.

Basement Walls are Bowing

If your basement walls are bowed, it’s a sign that there are foundation problems. The weight of the house is pressing down on the foundation, and the walls are bowing outwards to relieve the pressure. This is a serious problem because it means that the foundation is no longer able to support the weight of the house. Left untreated, bowed basement walls can lead to cracks, leaks, and even collapse.

Mold or Mildew

While mold and mildew are commonly thought of as being nothing more than a cosmetic nuisance, they can actually be a sign of a more serious problem. If left unchecked, mold and mildew can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home. One of the most common places for mold and mildew to take root is in the foundation.

Water Damage

Most people think of water damage as something that happens after a flood or a major leak, but it can also be caused by something as seemingly innocuous as a cracked foundation. When water seeps into cracks in the foundation, it can cause the surrounding soil to expand and pressure to build up against the walls of your home. This can lead to cracks in the drywall, warping of wood beams, and even mold growth. If you notice any water damage in your home, it’s important to have your foundation inspected by a professional as soon as possible to ensure that there is no underlying damage.

Catching Problems Early

Foundation problems can be caused by a number of factors, including poor drainage, leaks, and cracks. If you suspect that your foundation may be damaged, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse and could eventually lead to your home becoming uninhabitable.