I am not quite yet ready to put our house on the market, and I just wanted to let you know how very helpful your videos are in thinking out where to invest to get the best value out of it--and actually to enjoy the house more while I'm still in it. I waste a lot of time on TH-cam, and I think you have one of the best channels of any type here. Entertaining, intelligent, informative. Thank you!
Careful with draining water heater after 6 years of age (if never done). Sediment can cause plumbing issues and damage the water heater. Many plumbers will not touch after 6 years of age UNLESS done every 2 years. I didn't do it when new (mine is now 6 yrs old). I had lengthy conversations with local plumbers. I decided to just let it go. Not worth the risk. Lesson learned.
@@AudraLambert I agree with Edith ! Audra !!!!! Your videos are fantastic and I can tell that you hav a heart of gold 💛💛💛and you genuinely ❤love ❤to help people. I get so much value from your TH-cam videos ! You are a GEM ! 👑👑👑
As always, Audra, great advice. I would like to sell my house because the property is too much for me at this point in my life, but if I did that I would be paying more for a much smaller place so here I stay. 🤷♀️
The real estate agents who have come and looked at our home have all said my wife and one of my daughters are craftsman level when it comes to painting and installing floors. Hands down better than any professionals in our small city. They learned from watching TH-cam videos. So I do think the right people can DIY to get a house ready to sell.
As a realtor in my opinion, a housing market crash is imminent due to the high number of individuals who purchased homes above the asking price despite the low interest rates. These buyers find themselves in precarious situations as housing prices decline, leaving them without any equity. If they become unable to afford their homes, foreclosure becomes a likely outcome. Even attempting to sell would not yield any profits. This scenario is expected to impact a significant number of people, particularly in light of the anticipated surge in layoffs and the rapid increase in the cost of living.
I suggest you offset your real estate and get into stocks, A recession as bad it can be, provides good buying opportunities in the markets if you’re careful and it can also create volatility giving great short time buy and sell opportunities too. This is not financial advise but get buying, cash isn’t king at all in this time!
You are right! I’ve diversified my 450K portfolio across various market with the aid of an investment coach, I have been able to generate a little bit above $830k in net profit across high dividend yield stocks, ETF and bonds.
There are a handful of experts in the field. I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’ Melissa Terri Swayne” for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive. She’s quite known in her field, look-her up.
thank you for this tip , I must say, Melissa appears to be quite knowledgeable. After coming across her online page, I thoroughly went through her resume, educational background, and qualifications, and I must say, it was quite impressive. I reached out to her, and I have booked a session with her.
Seriously helpful with thoughtful tips I have never heard anyone else talking about. Some of these seem like the secret answer to the tours that go wrong and you have not been able to put your finger on why.
We’re getting ready to sell our house and your videos have been so helpful! Our house falls into that entry level/first time home buyer category so we’re really trying to get the most bang for our buck but at the same time not over doing it for our market. P.S. when we bought our house 4 years ago I immediately painted the whole house white (Simply White by BM) and I’m so glad I did because now it’s saving me so much time and effort 😂. My husband thought I was nuts but you should have seen the paint choices it had when we bought it. Navy blue, sea foam green, purple and pink, and a gray that was definitely going out of style
Thank you for another Excellent and very Informative podcast!! I live in southwest Washington State now, But have lived in Idaho, Utah, California, and Oregon. Now planning to move back to Oregon. All the repairs mentioned seem to be relevant. I had a flood in the house right after I bought it which was a burst Water heater, thanks for that tip on the no Tankless. Another Realtor told me they were great. I have an issue with the water heater. Thanks again! 😊
Thank you Audra! I'm so glad you do these videos. Your recommendations are common sense. We started preparing home of 30 years in August 2023 for market. We made multiple repairs, essentially anything that wasn't right. We had set up a timeline to list our house in July of 2024. I did do a couple of very minor low cost upgrades/updates ( it was a 30year old house) . We had a home inspection and made all the recommended repairs. We put our house on the Market just after the 4th of July for a Reasonable Price.. After eight days we received an offer for listing price, sold and were out of there. I agree on removing any rotted wood deck if possible, But if you can't remove the deck, I suggest upgrading to a composite decking product. They require nearly zero maintenance. they will fade over time. They will not rot. My point is that if you need to repair something that is outdated update it. that could be the difference of a potential offer just walking out the door.
I switched to tankless when our 2 regular heaters bursted and made a mess. I love mine! I descale every year, and it's no big deal. It does take a little longer in the cold winter, but once it gets going, I have ENDLESS HOT water! I can be doing hot laundry, and running the dishwasher on hot cycle, and 3 hot showers going at once, and ENDLESS hot water.... in the 30 degree F winter! I guess it depends on what kind of tankless heater one gets. I LOVE mine!
@@AudraLambert I am married to a Mechanical Engineer, You bet he has done all the items on your list. All outlets with the red reset buttons are up to code and all our detectors with new batteries twice year. Safety first is his Air Force motto.
A note about touch up painting…after 20 years we took a picture of the formula on the paint can lid and the actual brochure to buy paint to touch up the walls. Three times we tried to match the color and eggshell finish. It could not be done. The base paint (to which color is added) had changed.
You can get Lowe's or Home Depot to color match any paint. If you can, paint a sample of the paint you want to get matched on a piece of white cardboard or paper. Paint several coats until you can't see the paper or cardboard. Make your sample about 3x3 inches. Then take your sample in to the paint department and they can use a computer to make an exact color match. But you need to remember if your paint has been on the walls for several years the color will have changed slighty----especially if y'all are smokers.
Years back I tried to match a different very light color in another brand. It was explained to me that the very light colors are nearly impossible to match even for the same brand. Since nothing is really white each has a slight tint even if it’s a drop or two. There likely is no color you can add that will counteract the original. That said in a room with light that makes the walls different colors a near perfect match can be put on one wall in a pinch! I’ve done that mostly in rentals.
Years back I tried to match a different very light color in another brand. It was explained to me that the very light colors are nearly impossible to match even for the same brand. Since nothing is really white each has a slight tint even if it’s a drop or two. There likely is no color you can add that will counteract the original. That said in a room with light that makes the walls different colors a near perfect match can be put on one wall in a pinch! I’ve done that mostly in rentals.
Audrey, I beg to differ with you about who paints better! While I’ve hired excellent painters reasonably I’ve also had runs in paint with painters that were part of an insurance claim. Then they tried to gaslight me. I told them a 5 year old could do better. While I can no longer move my shoulders to paint, I still know more than a few home owners that can paint better than most calling themselves professionals. I was luck the last time as I was repairing to sell the painters could spray the paint. It took them nearly 6 hours to tape off everything, I was impressed. I had removed the wall plates so they just had to tape the outlets and switches. They even came back because I had a new roof leak -- we’d been working for a couple of months and even heavy rains hadn’t shown the leaks -- I asked for a price and he said no charge! He’d been recommended by a couple of realtors and was trying to get his foot farther in the door.
Good items from Audra, as always, thanks ... the big conundrum is: you don't want to sink a ton of money into the house in a slow market, but on the other hand, you are competing harder for a buyer and anything you can do to up your "curb appeal" can pay off in at least a quicker sale, if not better price. There are so many things you don't notice in your own house because you look at it every day, and if you have a great So Cal home that is 1980's vintage or older, updating fixtures is key. Leaks are like roaches ... there's never "just one". Flash heaters just don't work, and So California water will eat them up. Just get a new water heater before you sell. Sunken floodlights in a ceiling updates a house 40 years, do it. Even "can" lights are too 1980's .... replacing all the switch plates and switches with new may not be a bad idea. Buyers love new kitchen appliances (doesn't need to be Jenn-Aire, just medium quality) and updated bathroom fixtures, not too expensive in the grand scheme and gets attention. Just making sure everything works, and get the house squeaky clean!
I'm glad to hear that the content has been helpful as you prepare your home for sale! Since your home has been rented for 10 years, focusing on some key areas will make a big difference. I’d recommend prioritizing updates to the electrical and plumbing systems, as these are critical to the overall function and safety of the home. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint, both inside and out, can do wonders in giving the home a clean, well-maintained look. That being said, I’d strongly encourage you to speak with a local real estate agent who knows the market in your area. They can give you specific insights on which improvements are most likely to provide the best return on investment based on current market trends and how your home compares to others nearby. Renovations can vary in value depending on location, so understanding the local dynamics will help guide your decisions. If you'd like, we’d be happy to connect you with trusted local agents who can help you navigate this process and make the best decisions for your home sale.
@ Thanks for the reply. We’ve got a highly rated agent. Very trending and Tec savvy. Our pest inspection found some plumbing issues under the house and we had some cracked recalled ABS pipe. About $4 K for those repairs. Upgrades include new roof & rain gutters. Paint inside and out. New LVT 6” plank flooring throughout. Landscape makeover, new matching oiled bronze door knobs throughout. Other miscellaneous upgrades. About $40 K worth on a 1320 sq ft home built in “74” fair market value in my neighborhood should be about $535K. Quiet small court and tall privacy shrubs the length of the backyard. Looking to list in mid January. I paid $127 for the home in “93”
I agree on tankless. Cold spots and the expense. I don’t like led. Too bright and many say more dangerous than Edison bulbs. Agree on electric box and don’t paint black walls and red walls!
Great video! And I need to do MANY of those items on my home! Admittedly they are all annoying items that may be things that will make me a picky BUYER after I sell my home.
Laughing...I know, I have a few on my house as well. Its a pain when you sell your home...but you become a demanding buyer after it all. lol. Thanks for tuning in
I got caught with the shower diverter on an inspection. It was an easy fix! Of course, they can’t be corroded on, but usually aren’t. Admittedly, it wasn’t just dripping, we just rarely used it! The other thing that almost always leaks is the sprayer at the kitchen sink.
LOL! Good advice! MAINTAIN YOUR HOME! If you know it's broken...fix it. And it's best to have a pro do it. It's worth the money. You'll get a big return on your investment.
My realtor gave me a list of things to fix and a list of mi or things not to fix. He said he likes to leave a few easy/cheap things to fix for concessions lol. Got a trusted contractor to paint my exterior, interior, and replace the carpet in the bedrooms with LVP that.matches the LVP I did in my living room and hallway.
Painted Dunn Edwards Swiss Coffee ✅ New LVP ✅ New Switch Plates ✅ Decluttered ✅ thank you Audra for your recommendations I am not selling but loving my new updated home!!! Working on bathrooms next…
Hello Audra from Switzerland 🇨🇭! Your tips are amazing! We will sell our house in a couple of years and are happy for all your informations in order to get ready selling. The market here in Switzerland is slightly different from the US but buyers are all over the world the same. Thank you very much for all your very valuable advice. I am looking forward following you on this TH-cam channel! Greetings from abroad! Giulia
Thank you for your kind words. I look forward to continuing to provide helpful tips and knowledge. I wish you the best of luck with the future sale of your home.
You are so funny! I love your tips and advice! The paint struggle is real. We tried to do touch ups and experienced the oxidation color variance phenomena when we sold our last house 🤦🏻♀️.
My cousin is a plumber and when our water heater went out this year I asked him about a tankless water heater. He told me that he will not install them because of the issues you mentioned especially the descaling.
Great video. Did you paint your house eggshell or matte, and how do you like to clean scuffs ? I notice in many Greater Area Homes, you know you are in a Chinese home if you see 6000-8000k lighting. It really makes the house look like a hospital
I have eggshell for my walls and baseboards. I wouldn't vary the sheens too much. I do agree with some homes being hospital white...not in love with that:)
We have the ivory toggle switches and outlets. I’ve cleaned the switches with a dry toothbrush and then swapped out the ivory covers with antique bronze metal covers. Looks deluxe and way cheaper to do than having an electrician out.
I’d rather see a tankless water heater than 80 gallons of hot water sitting in the attic of a two story home waiting to leak. I’ve never had maintenance issues with tankless. The new ones heat quickly and never run out of hot water. A Fine Paints of Europe high gloss paint job is a plus!
Good for you. I guess I should have said that I live in an area with very very hard water. The tankless water heaters I had in my house (brand new) wasted so much cold water before it got warm, that I would actually have large buckets in the shower so I could collect the cold water. I felt badly wasting so much water. Really depends on how large the house is and the location of the tank. If you do have a tankless water heater...I would check with your plumber. You will need to descale it...and it is expensive!
Whatever sheen you paint your walls, I would either paint it the same sheen or one sheen shiner. Don't vary the sheens too much. I have Eggshell in my house and baseboards.
I am east coast Doug and am selling our home 5/2025. I have watched a lot of your videos and found them very helpful. I wished I could send you $100. as a thank you. You are beautiful, intelligent, and surely an over achiever. Love the vid's.
Just a matter of time:). I would chat your plumber about descaling. Its not something you want to pay attention to once you have a problem. Tankless water heaters need maintenance. Expensive maintenance in my experience.
Super funny! But whenever I'm in a home that doesn't have the common 'flip the switch', I wish I could rip them out. Lol! Another pet peeve: houses with no overhead lighting but instead they have switches when you enter a room that make an outlet turn on. Was this some kind of 80s trend - that seems to be common for that era of homes in the northeast.
1. Water leaks - check for corrosion 2. Shower divertor 3. Water heater - pan, sediment code, to code. 4. Electrical to code - hire electrician to check out, check all bulbs convert to LED - warm white 2700K, replace boob lights with contemporary cam lights. 5. Label circuit breaker 6. All outlets should work and should be grounded, replace outlet covers. 7. Paint, white - Swiss Coffee, Whisper or White Dove - matte or egg shell sheens, avoid high gloss. 8.Fix flooring, no cracks, stains, high end use planks, low end carpet ok 9. Tear out patio cover with dry rot and termite damage. 10 Ask a realtor well in advance now for spring.
Excellent and timely advice. Now the market has really turned, assisted by the stupid NAR settlement that helps no one. Now, buyers are really hesitant, the sellers still have to pay the buyer's agent if they want their home to sell. and everyone loses because the market is frozen. What were they thinking? The NAR settlement is punishing realtors, buyers and sellers!
Oh gosh, we hired a professional painter, for four interior rooms, and it went very badly. Parted ways and hired a different professional paint co. who were in business 25 years, and it was a disaster!! I had to spend a lot of hours correcting the mess, and completely repaint one entire room. I could NOT leave it in such a state, it was that awful. I won't go into details, but it was such a stressful experience, and a costly one, both in terms of money and extra work for me.
Investing in garage door and driveway renovations can certainly enhance your home's curb appeal, which is incredibly important when attracting potential buyers. That said, I would recommend speaking with a local real estate agent to get a better sense of what improvements are most likely to provide the best return on investment in your specific neighborhood. It's key to understand how your home compares to others in the area, as the value added by renovations can vary based on location and market trends. A fresh, clean, and well-maintained exterior can go a long way in making a positive first impression on buyers, so focusing on curb appeal is always a smart move.
As long as interest rates stay this high demand is gonna stay low for a while and thats a very good thing. Its very tough for buyers rn to afford these mortgages.
Here’s a comparison of tankless water heaters vs. tank water heaters: 1. Energy Efficiency Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, so they don't have to keep a tank of water hot all the time. This leads to higher energy efficiency, saving about 20-30% on energy costs. Tank Water Heaters: Constantly keep a tank of water hot, which uses more energy. However, newer tank models have improved insulation, reducing heat loss. 2. Space Requirements Tankless: Compact and can be wall-mounted, ideal for smaller spaces. Tank: Larger and requires a designated area, like a utility room or basement. 3. Hot Water Supply Tankless: Provides a continuous supply of hot water, but only within its capacity. If multiple fixtures are used simultaneously, there may be a drop in hot water flow. Tank: Holds a set amount of hot water, so once it's depleted, there’s a wait while it refills and reheats. 4. Lifespan and Maintenance Tankless: Can last 20+ years with regular maintenance but may need periodic descaling, especially in areas with hard water. Tank: Typically lasts 10-15 years and may need more frequent maintenance (e.g., flushing to remove sediment buildup). 5. Upfront and Long-Term Costs Tankless: Higher initial cost (often 2-3 times more than a tank), but energy savings can pay off in the long run. Tank: Lower upfront cost but generally less energy-efficient over time, leading to higher energy bills. Best For Tankless: Households with limited space or higher demand for continuous hot water. Ideal for eco-conscious users willing to invest upfront. Tank: Homes with lower hot water demands, like smaller households or those with lower initial budgets.
Also depends on where the hot water tank is located for when to replace. Our tank is in the laundry room. It leaked when we were out of town. Expensive repairs to laundry room as the floor had no drain. We now replace our tank at 10 years, even with a pan under it. We also added water leak detectors.
LOVE my tankless water heater. One tankless replaced two electric water heaters. My savings: roughly $400.00 per month. Can operate 4 hot water appliances with no loss in temperature....BUT we DO descale every year, which is a simple process. Not sure why you think they are a maintenance nightmare...just the opposite. Descaling is VERY simple and not tome consuming. Worth their weight in gold. Will never go back to a tank water heater. Couldn't disagree more.
Thank you for the kind words! I'm so glad you're finding the information helpful. When it comes to buying a home, there are a few key pieces of advice I always share with buyers: Know Your Budget: Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage so you have a clear understanding of what you can afford. This will also help you act quickly when you find the right property. Research the Market: Understand the current market conditions in the area you're interested in. Prices can vary, so knowing what to expect will help you make a more informed decision. Be Prepared to Move Quickly: In competitive markets, homes can sell fast. Be ready to act when you find a property you love, especially if it's priced well. Get a Home Inspection: Always invest in a thorough inspection to avoid surprises later. It's an important step in making sure you're comfortable with your purchase. For more resources, we have a variety of helpful videos and articles available on our site that cover important topics for both buyers and sellers. Feel free to browse through them, and I think you'll find them really valuable. Here's the link: Resources for Buyers and Sellers. www.lambertgrouphomes.com/resources Additionally, if you'd like, we’d be happy to connect you with a trusted local real estate agent who can help guide you through the buying process. Just let us know, and we'd be happy to make the introduction!
How do you deal with realtor’s who suggest contractor’s to perform recommended fixes? The one’s I have interviewed that recommend contractor’s seem to be suggesting upgrades that don’t match the neighborhood and are costly, for example removing walls to make open floor plan, but in the process that would remove a built-in pantry. I have a 6 bedroom house which clearly needs a pantry.
Interview agents, and if they’re making costly suggestions, find a new one. To sell your home, the footprint shouldn’t have to change. The most upgrading you should be doing is fresh paint and new carpet if it’s not able to be cleaned to remove stains. And obvious necessary repairs. Furthermore, an agent should never be recommending A contractor. Every agent should have a resource book of services, with AT LEAST 3 names/numbers per service. This allows you to get quotes and go with the contractor you are most comfortable with, while also ensuring you’re not hiring a shoddy contractor just because they give a kickback to the agent for the referral.
Descaling the tankless water heater is not a big deal and easy for home owner to do. If you have whole house water filtration it doesn’t need to be done very often. The only drawback with them is that it does take a while for hot water and they won’t work when the power goes out.
What do you think about the seller getting a reputable home inspection. And offering it to all potential buyers? Before the inspector comes in yes fixes you recommend. Yes fresh white paint. Yes decent to good floors. Have you been seeing those ads where there is a spray on material that they claim will extend the useful life by five years
Hi There! I am a big fan of getting a home inspection completed before putting your house on the market. I would fix the issues covered in this video. I have seen those ads where there is a spray material that would extend the useful life by five years. I have never used it. Sounds good though!
I thought the same thing that it would be good to have a home inspection before you put it on the market. It at least gives you an idea of what is needing repairs.
Thank you Audra. Tankless water are fantastic in theory, but if you have a power outage - natural disaster, it will not work. In fact, they bring up mud and cause major damage. These policies are becoming a major issue ( electric/ induction stove tops along with tankless water heaters can prevent the owner from heating and cooking while your electric grid is down.
@@Don-md6wn My niece and her husband also went through Helene. They were only without power for 3 days. No hot water available in the tankless, but some lovely mud that caused issues. Needless to say, they removed it promptly - this home is only 2 years old.
The reason I love "daylight" color (5000K to 5500K) bulbs is so that you can see colors properly. Any crafts using color, putting on makeup, or getting dressed is better if you can see the proper color of something. Is this a gray shirt or a green shirt? Can't tell with "warm" (2700K) bulbs because everything looks a bit orange. For eye-gazing romance, 2700K (or even a bit lower) is great. Or forget the LEDs and go straight to candles. Everything else is brilliant.
Hi Audra - As always, a great video with valuable information! In a previous video you discussed a company that you have worked with in CA, Florida, and Texas, offering repairs to be paid at closing or a 360 program that repair and purchase is completed through this company. Can you provide the name of the company and contact info? I have watched a bunch of your videos and cannot find that info. Thank you for all you do! ❤
You are adorable and you give the best advice and information. We are in a fairly stable market, but just as in your area, the sales pace has slowed. Prices remain higher than they should be but are slightly lowering. Our home is very well located and beautifully maintained, with one issue, some cupping in the hardwoods. This is not from moisture, but from lack of curing when they were installed. It will be expensive to replace them throughout the entire first floor, and, this flooring product has been discontinued from the manufacturer. What would you recommend? We are not in a hurry to sell, but would like to move next year. I would value your thoughts on this dilemma. Thank you, Audra.
Hello there! Thanks for watching my video..and I do appreciate your compliment. I haven't seen your floors, so it would be difficult for me to answer. I love hardwood floors! If your floors aren't terrible, I wouldn't worry about it. I'd hate to see you rip out your hardwood. Also, if you are working with an agent, you may want to get their opinion. They know the area and what buyers will expect when purchasing. Best of luck to you (next year).
I've tried unsuccessfully a couple of times to use your referral program. It seems to be "paused". I'll keep trying. About 6 weeks ago I had unfortunate experiences with the two agents I contacted to market a 2 bedroom condo in Branford CT. Any help will be appreciated.
I want to buy, and sellers dont seem to want to sell. They want top dollar with terrible things in their homes, not willing to sacrifice anything either. Buyers don't want to buy overpriced trouble.
A/C with a new 2025 EPA regulation to replace the 410 with R-32, a refrigerant that (EPA SAYS) has a lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410A. This shift is part of the EPA phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. R-32 is more environmentally friendly, offering improved energy efficiency and reduced impact on climate change. PLEASE, TOUCH ON THAT. TNX!
What about having a fireplace inspected before selling ? I have only used it 5 times and not in 10 years. Not a fan of the fireplace. Or should I just wait for the inspection from the potential buyer ?
Hi there! I would at least see if it works. If its working, don't worry about it. If not, you may want to see if someone can come take a look at it. Great question.
Watch out for the yellow-orangish lights. Your real estate photographer will hate you because those lights create a yellow color cast for everything in your house.
You are totally wrong about tankless/on demand water heaters. Tankless water heaters have an expected lifespan twice that of tank water heaters. They have been widely used in Europe for many decades and became popular in the US around 1990 with the adoption of the "energy star". You are dreaming if you think tank water heaters don't require descaling. . US Department of Energy estimates that for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand water heaters can be 24%-34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters (have you really checked your soaring energy costs lately??). Conversion and installation costs can be pretty high for a tankless because installation may well require upsizing of gas or electric power; and if a home already has a tankless installled this cost has already been paid. I have been using tankless water heaters in homes since the early 1990s with far fewer problems that tank heaters, and new tankless water heaters are far better than they were in 1990. I recently replaced a small 20 year old tankless in my own home with a new larger tankless. The old unit still functions and the only problem I ever had with the old unit was to clean out the dust blocking the air supply to the pilot light (newer units do not use pilot lights and the condensing units are far more efficient than the older units, in addition to which they use plastic incoming intake and exhaust air which in many cases is far easier to install and safer in use.)
@@AudraLambert If you are in area with hard water it makes a lot of sense to install a water softener for the entire incoming water supply. It is not only better for any kind of water heater, it is better for washing clothes as well as for bathing, cooking and drinking.
I live in Carson City area of Nevada -- hard water. My standard hot water tank is now 24 years old -- I haven't touched it except to put an inlet water filter on it when it was new. I recently had a plumber out to look at putting in a tankless and he said, "don't do it, you'll hate it! Expensive to install, requires at least yearly descaling and you'll see very little energy savings." Local plumbing supply store told me the same thing. Sounds like you're right Audra!
@@deltasquared7777I also looked into a water softener about 25 years ago. Seller brought out small unit to show me all about it. I tried washing my hands in "softened water", yuk! Your hands never feel like you got the soap washed off. I can't imagine taking a shower in that crud. No thanks!
You'll spend HOURS doing your hair and makeup every damn day, but having someone descale and INCREDIBLY efficient tankless water heater is too much work? let that sink in. Now let's understand that all of Europe, Asia, the Middle East only have tankless water heaters. (I'm guessing you won't use a seat belt because it wrinkles your clothes) You just moved from column A to column B with that comment.
You lost me at hating on a tankless water heater. You don’t need a professional to do annual descaling unless you have more money than brains. It’s cheap maintenance, like an oil change. Are there plenty of people too dumb or lazy to do this? Sure…but you’re kinda lumping yourself in with them when you make this complaint. Any house that supports a family will love having a tankless when they don’t have to worry about the hot water running out when everyone is taking a shower.
I would not tear out a deck that required a permit. 🫣Replace the rotted wood, sand blast or pressure wash the wood and put on new weather proof stain. Tighten loose boards with screws; not nails. Decks add value. Kissing off anything that was permitted is not a good idea. Just rebuild what is there already.👌🏼
I got caught with the shower diverter on an inspection. It was an easy fix! Of course, they can’t be corroded on, but usually aren’t. Admittedly, it wasn’t just dripping, we just rarely used it! The other thing that almost always leaks is the sprayer at the kitchen sink.
I am not quite yet ready to put our house on the market, and I just wanted to let you know how very helpful your videos are in thinking out where to invest to get the best value out of it--and actually to enjoy the house more while I'm still in it. I waste a lot of time on TH-cam, and I think you have one of the best channels of any type here. Entertaining, intelligent, informative. Thank you!
Wow...thank you so much!! I am having a really rough day. Thank you for your amazing words. It really has lifted my spirits. THANK YOU!!
Careful with draining water heater after 6 years of age (if never done). Sediment can cause plumbing issues and damage the water heater. Many plumbers will not touch after 6 years of age UNLESS done every 2 years. I didn't do it when new (mine is now 6 yrs old). I had lengthy conversations with local plumbers. I decided to just let it go. Not worth the risk. Lesson learned.
@@AudraLambert I agree with Edith ! Audra !!!!! Your videos are fantastic and I can tell that you hav a heart of gold 💛💛💛and you genuinely ❤love ❤to help people. I get so much value from your TH-cam videos ! You are a GEM ! 👑👑👑
As always, Audra, great advice. I would like to sell my house because the property is too much for me at this point in my life, but if I did that I would be paying more for a much smaller place so here I stay. 🤷♀️
I hear you. A lot of people are in the same situation. Its crazy what the housing market has done in the last few years. Ugh.
The real estate agents who have come and looked at our home have all said my wife and one of my daughters are craftsman level when it comes to painting and installing floors. Hands down better than any professionals in our small city. They learned from watching TH-cam videos. So I do think the right people can DIY to get a house ready to sell.
Good job!!! You are absolutely correct, some people are very skilled learns and that is a wonderful trait.
I really enjoy the humor and annotations in your videos. You and your editors are doing a great job.
Yes, I have a great video editor. I'll let him know you think so:0
I'm pretty sure I made money just by watching your video. I'll probably watch it again.
Well good on you! Thanks for watching.
As a realtor in my opinion, a housing market crash is imminent due to the high number of individuals who purchased homes above the asking price despite the low interest rates. These buyers find themselves in precarious situations as housing prices decline, leaving them without any equity. If they become unable to afford their homes, foreclosure becomes a likely outcome. Even attempting to sell would not yield any profits. This scenario is expected to impact a significant number of people, particularly in light of the anticipated surge in layoffs and the rapid increase in the cost of living.
I suggest you offset your real estate and get into stocks, A recession as bad it can be, provides good buying opportunities in the markets if you’re careful and it can also create volatility giving great short time buy and sell opportunities too. This is not financial advise but get buying, cash isn’t king at all in this time!
You are right! I’ve diversified my 450K portfolio across various market with the aid of an investment coach, I have been able to generate a little bit above $830k in net profit across high dividend yield stocks, ETF and bonds.
Could you kindly leave your investment advisor's contact information here? I absolutely must have one.
There are a handful of experts in the field. I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’ Melissa Terri Swayne” for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive. She’s quite known in her field, look-her up.
thank you for this tip , I must say, Melissa appears to be quite knowledgeable. After coming across her online page, I thoroughly went through her resume, educational background, and qualifications, and I must say, it was quite impressive. I reached out to her, and I have booked a session with her.
Your videos have been so helpful. Thank you so much!
You are so very welcome. Glad I could assist in anyway.
Selling in 2025. Just had house professionally painted with Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee in low sheen (it's between flat and eggshell). Love it.
Wise choice!!
Seriously helpful with thoughtful tips I have never heard anyone else talking about. Some of these seem like the secret answer to the tours that go wrong and you have not been able to put your finger on why.
Yeah...those little things really do make a difference. Thanks for your comment.
We’re getting ready to sell our house and your videos have been so helpful! Our house falls into that entry level/first time home buyer category so we’re really trying to get the most bang for our buck but at the same time not over doing it for our market. P.S. when we bought our house 4 years ago I immediately painted the whole house white (Simply White by BM) and I’m so glad I did because now it’s saving me so much time and effort 😂. My husband thought I was nuts but you should have seen the paint choices it had when we bought it. Navy blue, sea foam green, purple and pink, and a gray that was definitely going out of style
Phew! So glad you painted your house Simply White...great color btw. Laughing about the paint colors.
Thank you for another Excellent and very Informative podcast!! I live in southwest Washington State now, But have lived in Idaho, Utah, California, and Oregon. Now planning to move back to Oregon. All the repairs mentioned seem to be relevant. I had a flood in the house right after I bought it which was a burst Water heater, thanks for that tip on the no Tankless. Another Realtor told me they were great. I have an issue with the water heater. Thanks again! 😊
@@abbibrannan333 wow you have lived in so many places how exciting. Best of luck with your next move.
Preparing to sell next year, this is great information 🙏💕
yah..I. know you will do great.
Thank you Audra! I'm so glad you do these videos. Your recommendations are common sense. We started preparing home of 30 years in August 2023 for market. We made multiple repairs, essentially anything that wasn't right. We had set up a timeline to list our house in July of 2024. I did do a couple of very minor low cost upgrades/updates ( it was a 30year old house) . We had a home inspection and made all the recommended repairs. We put our house on the Market just after the 4th of July for a Reasonable Price.. After eight days we received an offer for listing price, sold and were out of there.
I agree on removing any rotted wood deck if possible, But if you can't remove the deck, I suggest upgrading to a composite decking product. They require nearly zero maintenance. they will fade over time. They will not rot. My point is that if you need to repair something that is outdated update it. that could be the difference of a potential offer just walking out the door.
Thanks to your wisdom I am on the right track. Sellers take your time please
Thank you for solid common sense advice. Much appreciated.
Thanks so much for your comment...and you are so very welcome.
I switched to tankless when our 2 regular heaters bursted and made a mess. I love mine! I descale every year, and it's no big deal. It does take a little longer in the cold winter, but once it gets going, I have ENDLESS HOT water! I can be doing hot laundry, and running the dishwasher on hot cycle, and 3 hot showers going at once, and ENDLESS hot water.... in the 30 degree F winter! I guess it depends on what kind of tankless heater one gets. I LOVE mine!
Excellent!
Ahh...so glad you got some value out of my video. Appreciate you tuning in.
We have been using Swiss Coffee for years. Great color. Always egg shell.
Yup...and Yup...can't go wrong.
@@AudraLambert I am married to a Mechanical Engineer, You bet he has done all the items on your list. All outlets with the red reset buttons are up to code and all our detectors with new batteries twice year. Safety first is his Air Force motto.
Another excellent, well-presented segment! Thank You! And Jeepers nearly 500 views within the first hour. Well done! :>)
Ahh..thanks so much. Really appreciate your continued support. Means the world to me.
Great to see you again! Great advice!😊
Ahh...thanks so much!! Really appreciate you tuning in.
A note about touch up painting…after 20 years we took a picture of the formula on the paint can lid and the actual brochure to buy paint to touch up the walls. Three times we tried to match the color and eggshell finish. It could not be done. The base paint (to which color is added) had changed.
Yes, that does happen. Such a bummer!!
You can get Lowe's or Home Depot to color match any paint. If you can, paint a sample of the paint you want to get matched on a piece of white cardboard or paper. Paint several coats until you can't see the paper or cardboard. Make your sample about 3x3 inches. Then take your sample in to the paint department and they can use a computer to make an exact color match. But you need to remember if your paint has been on the walls for several years the color will have changed slighty----especially if y'all are smokers.
Years back I tried to match a different very light color in another brand. It was explained to me that the very light colors are nearly impossible to match even for the same brand. Since nothing is really white each has a slight tint even if it’s a drop or two. There likely is no color you can add that will counteract the original. That said in a room with light that makes the walls different colors a near perfect match can be put on one wall in a pinch! I’ve done that mostly in rentals.
Years back I tried to match a different very light color in another brand. It was explained to me that the very light colors are nearly impossible to match even for the same brand. Since nothing is really white each has a slight tint even if it’s a drop or two. There likely is no color you can add that will counteract the original. That said in a room with light that makes the walls different colors a near perfect match can be put on one wall in a pinch! I’ve done that mostly in rentals.
Audrey, I beg to differ with you about who paints better! While I’ve hired excellent painters reasonably I’ve also had runs in paint with painters that were part of an insurance claim. Then they tried to gaslight me. I told them a 5 year old could do better. While I can no longer move my shoulders to paint, I still know more than a few home owners that can paint better than most calling themselves professionals.
I was luck the last time as I was repairing to sell the painters could spray the paint. It took them nearly 6 hours to tape off everything, I was impressed. I had removed the wall plates so they just had to tape the outlets and switches. They even came back because I had a new roof leak -- we’d been working for a couple of months and even heavy rains hadn’t shown the leaks -- I asked for a price and he said no charge! He’d been recommended by a couple of realtors and was trying to get his foot farther in the door.
Really helpful info! Thank you
You are so very welcome!!
Great, informative video. You’re right, these are home maintenance issues that can go by the wayside.
Absolutely, something seems to simple and minor but to a buyer, everything is a big deal.
Great advice. Especially on the electrical
Oh good...glad you got some value!!
Good items from Audra, as always, thanks ... the big conundrum is: you don't want to sink a ton of money into the house in a slow market, but on the other hand, you are competing harder for a buyer and anything you can do to up your "curb appeal" can pay off in at least a quicker sale, if not better price. There are so many things you don't notice in your own house because you look at it every day, and if you have a great So Cal home that is 1980's vintage or older, updating fixtures is key. Leaks are like roaches ... there's never "just one". Flash heaters just don't work, and So California water will eat them up. Just get a new water heater before you sell. Sunken floodlights in a ceiling updates a house 40 years, do it. Even "can" lights are too 1980's .... replacing all the switch plates and switches with new may not be a bad idea. Buyers love new kitchen appliances (doesn't need to be Jenn-Aire, just medium quality) and updated bathroom fixtures, not too expensive in the grand scheme and gets attention. Just making sure everything works, and get the house squeaky clean!
I’m preparing my California home for sale and your content has been extremely helpful. I’ve been renting it for 10 years and it’s taken a beating.
I'm glad to hear that the content has been helpful as you prepare your home for sale! Since your home has been rented for 10 years, focusing on some key areas will make a big difference. I’d recommend prioritizing updates to the electrical and plumbing systems, as these are critical to the overall function and safety of the home. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint, both inside and out, can do wonders in giving the home a clean, well-maintained look. That being said, I’d strongly encourage you to speak with a local real estate agent who knows the market in your area. They can give you specific insights on which improvements are most likely to provide the best return on investment based on current market trends and how your home compares to others nearby. Renovations can vary in value depending on location, so understanding the local dynamics will help guide your decisions.
If you'd like, we’d be happy to connect you with trusted local agents who can help you navigate this process and make the best decisions for your home sale.
@ Thanks for the reply. We’ve got a highly rated agent. Very trending and Tec savvy. Our pest inspection found some plumbing issues under the house and we had some cracked recalled ABS pipe. About $4 K for those repairs. Upgrades include new roof & rain gutters. Paint inside and out. New LVT 6” plank flooring throughout. Landscape makeover, new matching oiled bronze door knobs throughout. Other miscellaneous upgrades. About $40 K worth on a 1320 sq ft home built in “74” fair market value in my neighborhood should be about $535K. Quiet small court and tall privacy shrubs the length of the backyard. Looking to list in mid January. I paid $127 for the home in “93”
I agree on tankless. Cold spots and the expense. I don’t like led. Too bright and many say more dangerous than Edison bulbs. Agree on electric box and don’t paint black walls and red walls!
Great video! And I need to do MANY of those items on my home! Admittedly they are all annoying items that may be things that will make me a picky BUYER after I sell my home.
Laughing...I know, I have a few on my house as well. Its a pain when you sell your home...but you become a demanding buyer after it all. lol. Thanks for tuning in
Very informative ❤
Glad you got some value!
I got caught with the shower diverter on an inspection. It was an easy fix! Of course, they can’t be corroded on, but usually aren’t. Admittedly, it wasn’t just dripping, we just rarely used it!
The other thing that almost always leaks is the sprayer at the kitchen sink.
LOL! Good advice! MAINTAIN YOUR HOME! If you know it's broken...fix it. And it's best to have a pro do it. It's worth the money. You'll get a big return on your investment.
Thanks for your comment. Agree 100%
My realtor gave me a list of things to fix and a list of mi or things not to fix. He said he likes to leave a few easy/cheap things to fix for concessions lol. Got a trusted contractor to paint my exterior, interior, and replace the carpet in the bedrooms with LVP that.matches the LVP I did in my living room and hallway.
Top notch video!
So informative ❤
Glad you got some value...thanks for the comment.
Audra, you da bomb!
Painted Dunn Edwards Swiss Coffee ✅ New LVP ✅ New Switch Plates ✅ Decluttered ✅ thank you Audra for your recommendations I am not selling but loving my new updated home!!! Working on bathrooms next…
Its a joy to enjoy your home. Good for you.
Hello Audra from Switzerland 🇨🇭! Your tips are amazing! We will sell our house in a couple of years and are happy for all your informations in order to get ready selling. The market here in Switzerland is slightly different from the US but buyers are all over the world the same. Thank you very much for all your very valuable advice. I am looking forward following you on this TH-cam channel! Greetings from abroad! Giulia
Thank you for your kind words. I look forward to continuing to provide helpful tips and knowledge. I wish you the best of luck with the future sale of your home.
You are so funny! I love your tips and advice! The paint struggle is real. We tried to do touch ups and experienced the oxidation color variance phenomena when we sold our last house 🤦🏻♀️.
My cousin is a plumber and when our water heater went out this year I asked him about a tankless water heater. He told me that he will not install them because of the issues you mentioned especially the descaling.
Exactly...pain in the rear...and expensive!!
wow,,, never thought of tear down as a viable solution great option and rather simple,,,
Right on! All- especially the tankless water heaters and boob lights- ugggh!
Thank you for your great advice. I love your laugh!
Great video. Did you paint your house eggshell or matte, and how do you like to clean scuffs ?
I notice in many Greater Area Homes, you know you are in a Chinese home if you see 6000-8000k lighting. It really makes the house look like a hospital
I have eggshell for my walls and baseboards. I wouldn't vary the sheens too much. I do agree with some homes being hospital white...not in love with that:)
Excellent advice. Glad to hear your opinion on tankless water heater... I'm going to listen and not get one!
We have the ivory toggle switches and outlets. I’ve cleaned the switches with a dry toothbrush and then swapped out the ivory covers with antique bronze metal covers. Looks deluxe and way cheaper to do than having an electrician out.
I’d rather see a tankless water heater than 80 gallons of hot water sitting in the attic of a two story home waiting to leak. I’ve never had maintenance issues with tankless. The new ones heat quickly and never run out of hot water. A Fine Paints of Europe high gloss paint job is a plus!
I have had 2 tankless water heaters. Descaling is easy; anyone can do it! But, in an all-electric future a hybrid water heater will be required
@@MaddieBr I’m sure in the future there will be tankless electric water heaters. You’ll just need to upgrade to a 500 amp electrical service!
Good for you. I guess I should have said that I live in an area with very very hard water. The tankless water heaters I had in my house (brand new) wasted so much cold water before it got warm, that I would actually have large buckets in the shower so I could collect the cold water. I felt badly wasting so much water. Really depends on how large the house is and the location of the tank. If you do have a tankless water heater...I would check with your plumber. You will need to descale it...and it is expensive!
I plan on using BM White Dove. What color and sheen do you suggest for the molding and baseboards? Thank you for your guidance!!!
Whatever sheen you paint your walls, I would either paint it the same sheen or one sheen shiner. Don't vary the sheens too much. I have Eggshell in my house and baseboards.
I am east coast Doug and am selling our home 5/2025. I have watched a lot of your videos and found them very helpful. I wished I could send you $100. as a thank you. You are beautiful, intelligent, and surely an over achiever. Love the vid's.
We have a tankless water heater and well water. We don’t have to descale it. Never had a problem with it.
Just a matter of time:). I would chat your plumber about descaling. Its not something you want to pay attention to once you have a problem. Tankless water heaters need maintenance. Expensive maintenance in my experience.
Maybe the soft well water is what makes the difference.
Super funny! But whenever I'm in a home that doesn't have the common 'flip the switch', I wish I could rip them out. Lol! Another pet peeve: houses with no overhead lighting but instead they have switches when you enter a room that make an outlet turn on. Was this some kind of 80s trend - that seems to be common for that era of homes in the northeast.
Yes, laughing...Not in love with that either.
It's so annoying. We have that in some rooms of my (basically) 50's house. A pain.
More like wayyy early 20th century technology lol
Thank you so much!
1. Water leaks - check for corrosion 2. Shower divertor 3. Water heater - pan, sediment code, to code. 4. Electrical to code - hire electrician to check out, check all bulbs convert to LED - warm white 2700K, replace boob lights with contemporary cam lights. 5. Label circuit breaker 6. All outlets should work and should be grounded, replace outlet covers. 7. Paint, white - Swiss Coffee, Whisper or White Dove - matte or egg shell sheens, avoid high gloss. 8.Fix flooring, no cracks, stains, high end use planks, low end carpet ok 9. Tear out patio cover with dry rot and termite damage. 10 Ask a realtor well in advance now for spring.
Nailed it!!!
Excellent and timely advice. Now the market has really turned, assisted by the stupid NAR settlement that helps no one. Now, buyers are really hesitant, the sellers still have to pay the buyer's agent if they want their home to sell. and everyone loses because the market is frozen. What were they thinking? The NAR settlement is punishing realtors, buyers and sellers!
I think you'd be a great Stand Up comic
Ahhh....so glad you get my humor. Appreciate your comment.
Oh gosh, we hired a professional painter, for four interior rooms, and it went very badly. Parted ways and hired a different professional paint co. who were in business 25 years, and it was a disaster!! I had to spend a lot of hours correcting the mess, and completely repaint one entire room. I could NOT leave it in such a state, it was that awful. I won't go into details, but it was such a stressful experience, and a costly one, both in terms of money and extra work for me.
Ugh. I hear you. I would not have been able to leave that, either. So sorry to hear that.
Graybadvice ..especially the breaker box!
Very useful even for the present owner! Have had some experience with unlabeled ones.
You are amazing.
Thank you for the kind words.
What are your thoughts on investment of garage door and driveway renovating?
Investing in garage door and driveway renovations can certainly enhance your home's curb appeal, which is incredibly important when attracting potential buyers. That said, I would recommend speaking with a local real estate agent to get a better sense of what improvements are most likely to provide the best return on investment in your specific neighborhood. It's key to understand how your home compares to others in the area, as the value added by renovations can vary based on location and market trends. A fresh, clean, and well-maintained exterior can go a long way in making a positive first impression on buyers, so focusing on curb appeal is always a smart move.
As long as interest rates stay this high demand is gonna stay low for a while and thats a very good thing. Its very tough for buyers rn to afford these mortgages.
Here’s a comparison of tankless water heaters vs. tank water heaters:
1. Energy Efficiency
Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water on demand, so they don't have to keep a tank of water hot all the time. This leads to higher energy efficiency, saving about 20-30% on energy costs.
Tank Water Heaters: Constantly keep a tank of water hot, which uses more energy. However, newer tank models have improved insulation, reducing heat loss.
2. Space Requirements
Tankless: Compact and can be wall-mounted, ideal for smaller spaces.
Tank: Larger and requires a designated area, like a utility room or basement.
3. Hot Water Supply
Tankless: Provides a continuous supply of hot water, but only within its capacity. If multiple fixtures are used simultaneously, there may be a drop in hot water flow.
Tank: Holds a set amount of hot water, so once it's depleted, there’s a wait while it refills and reheats.
4. Lifespan and Maintenance
Tankless: Can last 20+ years with regular maintenance but may need periodic descaling, especially in areas with hard water.
Tank: Typically lasts 10-15 years and may need more frequent maintenance (e.g., flushing to remove sediment buildup).
5. Upfront and Long-Term Costs
Tankless: Higher initial cost (often 2-3 times more than a tank), but energy savings can pay off in the long run.
Tank: Lower upfront cost but generally less energy-efficient over time, leading to higher energy bills.
Best For
Tankless: Households with limited space or higher demand for continuous hot water. Ideal for eco-conscious users willing to invest upfront.
Tank: Homes with lower hot water demands, like smaller households or those with lower initial budgets.
Also depends on where the hot water tank is located for when to replace. Our tank is in the laundry room. It leaked when we were out of town. Expensive repairs to laundry room as the floor had no drain. We now replace our tank at 10 years, even with a pan under it. We also added water leak detectors.
LOVE my tankless water heater. One tankless replaced two electric water heaters. My savings: roughly $400.00 per month. Can operate 4 hot water appliances with no loss in temperature....BUT we DO descale every year, which is a simple process. Not sure why you think they are a maintenance nightmare...just the opposite. Descaling is VERY simple and not tome consuming. Worth their weight in gold. Will never go back to a tank water heater. Couldn't disagree more.
So much great information! We are looking to buy a home. Is there advice you give your buyers? Thanks
Thank you for the kind words! I'm so glad you're finding the information helpful. When it comes to buying a home, there are a few key pieces of advice I always share with buyers:
Know Your Budget: Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage so you have a clear understanding of what you can afford. This will also help you act quickly when you find the right property.
Research the Market: Understand the current market conditions in the area you're interested in. Prices can vary, so knowing what to expect will help you make a more informed decision.
Be Prepared to Move Quickly: In competitive markets, homes can sell fast. Be ready to act when you find a property you love, especially if it's priced well.
Get a Home Inspection: Always invest in a thorough inspection to avoid surprises later. It's an important step in making sure you're comfortable with your purchase.
For more resources, we have a variety of helpful videos and articles available on our site that cover important topics for both buyers and sellers. Feel free to browse through them, and I think you'll find them really valuable. Here's the link: Resources for Buyers and Sellers. www.lambertgrouphomes.com/resources
Additionally, if you'd like, we’d be happy to connect you with a trusted local real estate agent who can help guide you through the buying process. Just let us know, and we'd be happy to make the introduction!
How do you deal with realtor’s who suggest contractor’s to perform recommended fixes? The one’s I have interviewed that recommend contractor’s seem to be suggesting upgrades that don’t match the neighborhood and are costly, for example removing walls to make open floor plan, but in the process that would remove a built-in pantry. I have a 6 bedroom house which clearly needs a pantry.
Interview agents, and if they’re making costly suggestions, find a new one. To sell your home, the footprint shouldn’t have to change. The most upgrading you should be doing is fresh paint and new carpet if it’s not able to be cleaned to remove stains. And obvious necessary repairs. Furthermore, an agent should never be recommending A contractor. Every agent should have a resource book of services, with AT LEAST 3 names/numbers per service. This allows you to get quotes and go with the contractor you are most comfortable with, while also ensuring you’re not hiring a shoddy contractor just because they give a kickback to the agent for the referral.
You’re very entertaining 😅
I try 😄
Descaling the tankless water heater is not a big deal and easy for home owner to do. If you have whole house water filtration it doesn’t need to be done very often. The only drawback with them is that it does take a while for hot water and they won’t work when the power goes out.
What do you think about the seller getting a reputable home inspection. And offering it to all potential buyers? Before the inspector comes in yes fixes you recommend. Yes fresh white paint. Yes decent to good floors.
Have you been seeing those ads where there is a spray on material that they claim will extend the useful life by five years
Hi There! I am a big fan of getting a home inspection completed before putting your house on the market. I would fix the issues covered in this video. I have seen those ads where there is a spray material that would extend the useful life by five years. I have never used it. Sounds good though!
I thought the same thing that it would be good to have a home inspection before you put it on the market. It at least gives you an idea of what is needing repairs.
mahalo nui / tyvm!!
Thank you Audra. Tankless water are fantastic in theory, but if you have a power outage - natural disaster, it will not work. In fact, they bring up mud and cause major damage. These policies are becoming a major issue ( electric/ induction stove tops along with tankless water heaters can prevent the owner from heating and cooking while your electric grid is down.
Yes, I've hear that too. Thanks for sharing.
My power was recently out for 13 days due to Hurricane Helene, and I've had no issue with my tankless water heater since.
@@Don-md6wn My niece and her husband also went through Helene. They were only without power for 3 days. No hot water available in the tankless, but some lovely mud that caused issues. Needless to say, they removed it promptly - this home is only 2 years old.
The reason I love "daylight" color (5000K to 5500K) bulbs is so that you can see colors properly. Any crafts using color, putting on makeup, or getting dressed is better if you can see the proper color of something. Is this a gray shirt or a green shirt? Can't tell with "warm" (2700K) bulbs because everything looks a bit orange. For eye-gazing romance, 2700K (or even a bit lower) is great. Or forget the LEDs and go straight to candles.
Everything else is brilliant.
Hi Audra - As always, a great video with valuable information! In a previous video you discussed a company that you have worked with in CA, Florida, and Texas, offering repairs to be paid at closing or a 360 program that repair and purchase is completed through this company. Can you provide the name of the company and contact info? I have watched a bunch of your videos and cannot find that info. Thank you for all you do! ❤
I would like to know if you recommend a realtor in the metro Atlanta, GA area. Thank you
We found Florida updates it's building code every 3 years.
That’s got to be annoying but the storms are really affecting what’s happening in the code rule books.
Yes, I now...I that's true in every city. Hard to keep up with all the changes.
You are adorable and you give the best advice and information. We are in a fairly stable market, but just as in your area, the sales pace has slowed. Prices remain higher than they should be but are slightly lowering. Our home is very well located and beautifully maintained, with one issue, some cupping in the hardwoods. This is not from moisture, but from lack of curing when they were installed. It will be expensive to replace them throughout the entire first floor, and, this flooring product has been discontinued from the manufacturer. What would you recommend? We are not in a hurry to sell, but would like to move next year. I would value your thoughts on this dilemma. Thank you, Audra.
Hello there! Thanks for watching my video..and I do appreciate your compliment. I haven't seen your floors, so it would be difficult for me to answer. I love hardwood floors! If your floors aren't terrible, I wouldn't worry about it. I'd hate to see you rip out your hardwood. Also, if you are working with an agent, you may want to get their opinion. They know the area and what buyers will expect when purchasing. Best of luck to you (next year).
I've tried unsuccessfully a couple of times to use your referral program. It seems to be "paused". I'll keep trying. About 6 weeks ago I had unfortunate experiences with the two agents I contacted to market a 2 bedroom condo in Branford CT. Any help will be appreciated.
Oh Janet, I am so sorry! Just send me an email at referrals@Lambertgrouphomes.com. I will take care of it personally for you. So sorry.
I plan on listing mid-January (2025). Too early? Originally, my plan was to put my house on the market before Christmas (2024).
I want to buy, and sellers dont seem to want to sell. They want top dollar with terrible things in their homes, not willing to sacrifice anything either.
Buyers don't want to buy overpriced trouble.
Can't disagree with your statement.
Semi gloss is coming back.
A/C with a new 2025 EPA regulation to replace the 410 with R-32, a refrigerant that (EPA SAYS) has a lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410A. This shift is part of the EPA phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. R-32 is more environmentally friendly, offering improved energy efficiency and reduced impact on climate change. PLEASE, TOUCH ON THAT. TNX!
Not in Philadelphia suburbs!! We still have low inventory. Who is ur editor?
Glad to hear you still have low inventories. My son in my editor:)
@ he is very good. Does he want to edit my videos lol. ?
Life hack if your outlet is not grounded install a gcfi. It’s way cheaper than running new wire in an old home.
3:17 LOL
❤❤❤❤❤❤
So glad you liked it.
Tankless water heaters cost $$$$$ to fix!
I watch for the laugh lol
@@BellionaireStudios 🤣🤣🤣
What about having a fireplace inspected before selling ? I have only used it 5 times and not in 10 years. Not a fan of the fireplace. Or should I just wait for the inspection from the potential buyer ?
Hi there! I would at least see if it works. If its working, don't worry about it. If not, you may want to see if someone can come take a look at it. Great question.
@ thank you for the quick response. I always look forward to your videos. Super helpful.
The tankless water heaters all froze during the Big Freeze here in Texas. Would never have one
everything froze in big freeze in Texas, tank and tankless.
Watch out for the yellow-orangish lights. Your real estate photographer will hate you because those lights create a yellow color cast for everything in your house.
Real estate photographer can adjust the color of the photos easily. You are paying them for the photography skill set. Hire a good one!
Tankless water heaters are a crap -- 100% coz physics laws suggest, be slow to loose less. 😎
If you have a water softener, you don't need to get your tankless water heater descaled.
Good comment. I did have a water softener...still had to descale my tankless water heater...BUT...I live in an area with really really hard water.
You are totally wrong about tankless/on demand water heaters. Tankless water heaters have an expected lifespan twice that of tank water heaters. They have been widely used in Europe for many decades and became popular in the US around 1990 with the adoption of the "energy star". You are dreaming if you think tank water heaters don't require descaling. . US Department of Energy estimates that for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand water heaters can be 24%-34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters (have you really checked your soaring energy costs lately??). Conversion and installation costs can be pretty high for a tankless because installation may well require upsizing of gas or electric power; and if a home already has a tankless installled this cost has already been paid. I have been using tankless water heaters in homes since the early 1990s with far fewer problems that tank heaters, and new tankless water heaters are far better than they were in 1990. I recently replaced a small 20 year old tankless in my own home with a new larger tankless. The old unit still functions and the only problem I ever had with the old unit was to clean out the dust blocking the air supply to the pilot light (newer units do not use pilot lights and the condensing units are far more efficient than the older units, in addition to which they use plastic incoming intake and exhaust air which in many cases is far easier to install and safer in use.)
Well...you make good. points. I live in an area that has very hard water. Tankless water heaters do love hard water.
@@AudraLambert If you are in area with hard water it makes a lot of sense to install a water softener for the entire incoming water supply. It is not only better for any kind of water heater, it is better for washing clothes as well as for bathing, cooking and drinking.
I live in Carson City area of Nevada -- hard water. My standard hot water tank is now 24 years old -- I haven't touched it except to put an inlet water filter on it when it was new. I recently had a plumber out to look at putting in a tankless and he said, "don't do it, you'll hate it! Expensive to install, requires at least yearly descaling and you'll see very little energy savings." Local plumbing supply store told me the same thing. Sounds like you're right Audra!
@@deltasquared7777I also looked into a water softener about 25 years ago. Seller brought out small unit to show me all about it. I tried washing my hands in "softened water", yuk! Your hands never feel like you got the soap washed off. I can't imagine taking a shower in that crud. No thanks!
Things aren't moving in Califronia right now, because everyone wants too get out of that god-awful state. The market is hopping where we live.
You'll spend HOURS doing your hair and makeup every damn day, but having someone descale and INCREDIBLY efficient tankless water heater is too much work? let that sink in. Now let's understand that all of Europe, Asia, the Middle East only have tankless water heaters. (I'm guessing you won't use a seat belt because it wrinkles your clothes)
You just moved from column A to column B with that comment.
You lost me at hating on a tankless water heater. You don’t need a professional to do annual descaling unless you have more money than brains. It’s cheap maintenance, like an oil change. Are there plenty of people too dumb or lazy to do this? Sure…but you’re kinda lumping yourself in with them when you make this complaint.
Any house that supports a family will love having a tankless when they don’t have to worry about the hot water running out when everyone is taking a shower.
I would not tear out a deck that required a permit. 🫣Replace the rotted wood, sand blast or pressure wash the wood and put on new weather proof stain. Tighten loose boards with screws; not nails. Decks add value. Kissing off anything that was permitted is not a good idea. Just rebuild what is there already.👌🏼
I hear ya...BUT if it costs 15K and your housing is declining ...you may want to rethink it. Not every area is the same. You sound very handy!!
@@AudraLambert handy indeed 😂😂😂
Your videos have been so helpful. Thank you so much!
So glad that you are enjoying them.
I got caught with the shower diverter on an inspection. It was an easy fix! Of course, they can’t be corroded on, but usually aren’t. Admittedly, it wasn’t just dripping, we just rarely used it!
The other thing that almost always leaks is the sprayer at the kitchen sink.
These are very easy fixes and its so much better to do it ahead of the buyers inspection.
@ If I’d known they were there, I wholly agree. I’d taken a shower where they “found” a broken shower head. It seemed fine.