Monday Morning Coffee

My second week of the Monday Morning blog did not go as planned, but better late than never!

Market News:
Two reports today (Tuesday, October 2) confirmed an uptrend in home prices. The S&/Case-Shiller home price index of 20 major cities increased 1.2% in the 12 months ended in July. The Federal Housing Finance Agency reported its measure of U.S. home prices increased .2% in July over June. That rise capped off seventh consecutive monthly gains. 
Read full story at WSJ.com

Home Maintenance Tips:

Yahoo.com has a nice article about Top Home Improvement projects to do this Fall. Here is a snippet of ones I think are very beneficial:
1. Roof Repair or Replacement. It's important to have a sturdy, leak proof roof before the winter snow and sleet. Get it checked out now while the weather is more cooperative.
2. Window Replacements. It's easier to install new windows with milder weather, plus new windows provide more insulation which could bring winter heating costs down.
3. Heating Systems Checked. Just like getting your AC checked in the Spring to make sure it works properly, you want to check your heating systems to make sure they are good to go. This is where a service contract comes in handy, but if you feel comfortable you can always check the systems yourself.
4. Concrete and Mortar. Cold air does not work well with concrete or mortar, so if you have cracks in your driveway, repair them now in the warmer months. If it freezes, it won't set properly. 
To read more tips and details <<click here>>


Local Fun:
Sunday was the launch for the popular Center City Restaurant week! 

Visit OpenTable.com to book your reservations. 

Monday Morning Coffee

I know I'm not the best or most consistent blogger. However, I want to change that so I've come up with a few new strategies! The first thing I'm implementing is a Monday Morning Coffee blog. Every Monday I'll blog about community events, local market news, home maintenance tips, and any other relevant information I feel like sharing that you can read while preparing for your new week. I think it will be informative and fun! So here we go...

Market News:
In Montgomery County, inventory was down and prices were steady in August, 2012 compared to August 2011. Both sold homes and pending sales are up this year showing signs of a strong market for the remainder of the year. 

Home Maintenance:
Fall is upon us which means fallen leaves, lots of them! How do you dispose of them? First, check with your township on their rules on baggin, blowing, burning and disposing. They often require specific bags and sometimes only allow leaf blowing on certain days. Once you have a clear understanding of your town ordinances follow these tips once you have gathered your leaves in a pile:
Bag them- Use sturdy bags and be sure to get a lot of them. Checkwhat day your town picks the bags up
Let leaves degrade- Compost piles love dead leaves. They will decompose faster if you shred them first. If you don't want to shred leaves, pile them up in a corner of your garden to decompose into a "Leaf Mold"- great garden mulch that increases water retention and promotes garden worms. Spread the mold all around your garden, trees and shrubs throughout Fall. 
Return leaves to the Earth- Don't bother raking or blowing leaves, simply use a mulching lawn mower to shred which will eventually decompose and nourish your lawn for next Spring.
www.houselogic.com


Fun Fact:
It was recently reported that 64% of women say home ownership is essential to achieving the American Dream, compared to 52% of men. The poll was taken by TD Bank to more than 1,300 Americans. 

Weekend Fun:
This Saturday, September 29th is the Manayunk StrEAT Festival! This is their kickoff to the Manayunk Restaurant Week starting September 30- October 5. From 10am to 5pm on Saturday come out to enjoy live music, fall speciality foods and crafts. 
More information at Manayunk.com

Parents moving in with their children

Today it's becoming more common to see aging parents moving in with their children. It's a popular theme throughout the world and cultures, however American has really only caught on within the past few years.
With the current economic status, health care costs, and numerous personal reasons, it can often make sense to combine two households. With this trend has entered the demand for first floor bedrooms and in-law suites. Builders are building homes to meet these needs and homeowners are converting areas in their homes to accommodate their parents or are considering moving into homes with the features already in place.
Another "bonus" I see with having an in-law suite is the rental income potential. An extract living area with a separate entrance could be a great space for a tenant (or college child!) if you choose not to have a parent living with you.

Below is a home I have for sale in Aududon, PA. The garage was converted into an in-law suite with a full bath and kitchenette a few years ago. It's a convenient space for a parent or tenant with a separate entrance and set away from the main living spaces of the home. Click the photo for more details.