Millions of homeowners are "under water" on their home loan and facing foreclosure. However, there are foreclosure alternatives. Learn more about the fastest growing alternative - Short Sales - and why this option is more attractive to both the homeowner AND the lender. The Kombrink Team at RE/MAX Great American North can guide you through the process.
Short Sale: The Basics
Past Client Event
The Kombrink Team would once again like to thank all of the clients that were able to join us for the screening of Arthur Christmas. Fresh doughnuts, hot coffee and Santa Claus himslef turned an ordinary morning into quite the festive event! Check out some photos.
10 Fall Maintenance Tips
Yes, it's that time of year... The leaves are changing, and falling. Now is a great time to get your home prepared and safe the winter!
1. Check the heating system. Check the filter, pilot light and burners in a system fueled by gas or oil. Fireplaces, boilers, water heaters, space heaters and wood burning stoves should also be serviced every year.
2. Clean ducts in the heating system. Dust build-up in ducts is a major cause of indoor pollutants. In a home that is shut tight for the winter, dust increases the possibility of illness. Ducts should be professionally cleaned about every three years.
3. Test fire and smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors. Often alarms and detectors go unattended.
4. Remove excess leaves and damaged branches surrounding the house. Now that leaves have fallen off of trees, it's a good time to remove any dead branches.
5. Maintain gutters. Remove all debris that can slow or impede the ability of the water to drain effectively from the roof. Trapped water can freeze then thaw, an action which could be destructive not only to the gutters themselves but to the adjoining roof as well.
6. Inspect the roof. Look for damaged or loose shingles, gaps in the flashing at joints with siding, vents and flues, as well as damaged mortar around the chimney.
7. Inspect exterior walls and window sills. Check walls and window sills for damage such as cracks, gaps, loose or crumbling mortar, along with splitting and decaying wood. Wood trim and siding can suffer from deterioration or loose paint. Caulk exterior joints around windows and doors, which helps keep the home weather tight and helps to lower heating bills.
8. Maintain steps and handrails. Repair broken steps and secure loose banisters. Broken steps are easily hidden beneath snow, which could cause a dangerous fall. Similarly, a person slipping on ice will grab a handrail for support.
9. Prepare storm windows for installation. Check all weather stripping and all fasteners. Well-maintained and properly fitted storm windows will help to save on energy costs during the winter months.
10. Pools, sprinkler systems and outside faucets should be shut down. Homeowners can shut down outside faucets, while the other tasks are best performed by industry professionals to prevent cracked pipes and pool bottoms.
For a referral to any service provider, please contact The Kombrink Team at 630-488-3300.
