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Don't Sell Yourself Short with a Short Sale, Part II
 
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Anatomy of a Remodel
Part II: Don't Sell Yourself Short
Greenfabulous Finds
Eco Art
Recipe for Remodel
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Anatomy of a Remodel - Part V of a Multi-Part Series

 

The deconstruction is now complete and you can't wait to fill in that blank slate. Just like deconstruction, construction also poses some health risks. Ideally you will not be living in the home while the construction or remodel is being conducted. If you will be living in the home during construction, you should discuss the precautions that your contractor will be taking to prevent any dust or chemicals coming into the non-construction living areas.

 

One of the biggest risks to you as the homeowner is potential exposure to particulates that may be introduced to the interior of your home during the construction process. If your home is 30 years or older, discuss the need for asbestos or lead remediation prior to any construction beginning. Certified remediation experts should remove asbestos and lead so that these chemicals are not introduced to other parts of your home.

 

If you are living in the home during construction precautions need to be taken so that you and your family are not exposed to any unnecessary dust, dirt, or chemicals. The construction area should be cordoned off to prevent dust and other particulates from moving into occupied living areas. Vents and returns should also be sealed so that construction particulates do not enter the ductwork and become blown throughout the house.

 

If you do not have an architect, designer or project manager overseeing the project, you should be communicating with your contractor on a daily basis for updates about the project. You should also be inspecting the work on a daily basis to make sure that the work you expected is being completed. It also helps to be on site to respond to any questions or issues that may arise during the remodeling process. Next installment - after the remodeling is complete.

 


Part II: Don't Sell Yourself Short with a Short Sale or Foreclosure
 

Some short sales may involve investment property and the owner may never have lived in the home. These rental properties may be in very poor condition, and the landlord owner may do some clean up that is more like a "cover up." That new paint may be covering up more than damaged walls - it might be hiding mold or other toxic substances you can't see. If the home was used to grow or manufacture illicit drugs, there may be a host of problems that may not be readily seen or uncovered in a standard home inspection.

 

Check out one homeowner's living nightmare when they unknowingly purchased a former "grow" house.

 

Purchasing a home that previously housed a "meth lab" can be more dangerous and even life threatening. If it has been disclosed that the home you are buying was formerly a lab, you should ask to see inspection reports declaring it habitable. You may also want to have chemical testing performed for your own peace of mind and to save yourself from financial ruin. Read the heartbreaking story of this Utah family that unknowingly purchased a former meth lab home.

 

Even though you feel that the short sale home is the home of your dreams, don't let your emotions run the show. You should ask lots of questions and investigate so that you can learn as much as possible about the home, former owners and any home problems that may exist. The short sale home could turn out to be the home of your dreams or it could be a house of horrors. Lessen your risk by doing your research and due diligence.

Greenfabulous Finds


 

GrandmaDid you get that lamp from Grandma?

I bet that Grandma never imagined making a lamp out of one of her lovely doilies. Well Shannon South did and her creations are quite lovely.


 


 


 


 

ValentineUnique Valentine and Eco-Friendly too!

 

She will feel the love as she steps into these warm and funky slippers. For more information, click here.
 


 


 


 


 

Charge me up Scottie

 

Are you tired of getting tangled up in all those cords for your mobile devices? You can cut the cord and charge up to four devices on this Smart Power pad.

 

Eco Art

chewing gumThe art of Maurizio Savini is no ordinary eco-art. His medium is "chewing gum." Check out his work at the Gallery.iHHHHHHh

 

 

Recipe for Remodel

·       Dream it

·       Budget it

·       Design it

·       Deconstruct it

·       Reconstruct it

·       Love it

 

Let Eco-Chic Design help you design the home of your dreams. A remodel or redesign involves a lot of choices and can be a bit overwhelming. Eco-Chic takes on the remodeling stress so you don't have to. We plan your space and select materials, finishes, furnishings, appliances, fixtures, lighting according to your budget. Eco-Chic gets you to the "ahhh" moment when you walk into that finished room, kick your shoes off and say, "I am home." Call today to start your project - 916-240-3724 or email marie@eco-chicdesign.com.


Feedback Always Welcome

Eco-Chic Design would like your feedback.  Please email marie@eco-chicdesign.com and tell us what topics you would like to see in your monthly newsletter.



Sincerely,
 
Clutch

Marie L. Brown, LEED AP
Eco-Chic Design



Eco-Intervention


Want to design a greener life? Contact Eco-Chic, 916-240-3724, for an "eco-intervention."

 

Local clients (within 50 miles of Lincoln, CA) - 2 hour in-home consultation including written plan you can implement at your pace.  Cost - $225

 

Distance clients - plan includes a 50-minute phone consultation, questionnaire and your photos with plan emailed to you.  Cost - $135


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