Simple Step to Keep Your Pipes Healthy
Amy Newcomer • August 18, 2025

While professional plumbers handle much of your home’s pipe care, there’s an easy maintenance task you can do yourself to help protect your plumbing system—managing water pressure.
Installing a pressure gauge and a pressure release valve near your main water shutoff valve allows you to monitor and adjust the water pressure. Ideally, keep the pressure between 25 and 75 psi to avoid damaging your pipes.
If you notice a faulty gauge or valve, you can replace it yourself using a wrench and some effort. Most hardware stores carry a variety of these parts so you can find the right fit for your home. Adding regular pressure checks to your maintenance routine is a simple way to extend the life of your plumbing.

Flipping older homes has become more popular, and historic properties are especially appealing. But restoring them isn’t always simple—many have been neglected for years and come with challenges you need to understand before getting started. What Should You Know Before Flipping a Historic Home? Historic houses often lack modern systems and features that today’s buyers expect. Start by having a licensed electrician inspect the electrical system, as older wiring can be unsafe. You should also schedule a professional roof inspection and address any issues immediately. Additional upgrades to consider include: Sealing drafty windows Repairing or repointing masonry and foundation Replacing outdated heating and cooling systems Updating plumbing and bathrooms without compromising historic charm What Matters Most When Flipping to Sell? If your goal is resale profit, you must prioritize the repairs that add real value. Focus on structural issues, water damage, septic problems, and pest concerns. These are essential for buyer confidence and long-term home health. A full home inspection will help you identify any hidden problems so you can address them before listing. Cosmetic improvements alone won’t boost the home’s value if major issues are ignored. Interested in restoring a historic home and need guidance? Contact us for expert support.

If you’re selling your home but need extra time before moving out, a rent-back agreement can be a helpful option. This arrangement allows the seller to remain in the home for a short period after closing, essentially becoming a temporary tenant of the new owner. These agreements are usually brief and come with a set end date, but they provide valuable time to finish packing and transition into your next home. If you’d like to understand when a rent-back agreement is useful and how to set one up, we’re here to help.

A flooded basement can be overwhelming and costly, often happening with little warning. If you discover water in your basement, stay calm and follow a few essential steps. Start by making sure it’s safe to enter. Turn off the electricity and gas, and watch for damaged wiring or signs of structural issues. In some cases, you may need to wait until all the water is drained before going inside. Once it’s safe, identify the source of the flooding and begin removing or pumping out the water. Afterward, you can focus on repairs and restoring the space. Need help recovering from a basement flood? Contact us for guidance on next steps.

Everyone wants a secure home, but safety involves more than locked doors and basic maintenance. Many risks inside your home can go unnoticed and put your family at risk. Here are five common hazards to watch for: 1. Mold Moisture can lead to mold growth in bathrooms, carpets, walls, and other damp areas. Clean spills and leaks right away and watch for musty smells or discoloration. Use dish soap or non-ammonia cleaners to remove small patches. 2. Cleaning Products Some household cleaners contain harsh chemicals. Choose non-toxic or natural options like vinegar and baking soda whenever possible. If you use chemical cleaners, wear proper protection and keep the area well-ventilated. 3. Radon This invisible, odorless gas can only be detected through testing. Hire a professional or use a radon detector, especially in basements. If levels are high, install a ventilation system to safely redirect the gas outdoors. 4. Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas with no smell or taste. It often comes from fuel-burning appliances with poor ventilation. Have a technician inspect your heating system and gas appliances annually, and install CO detectors. 5. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) Paints, solvents, and certain finishes release VOCs that may harm indoor air quality. Choose low-VOC paint and ventilate rooms well during and after painting.

Thinking about remodeling your shower but not sure where to start? There are many ways to improve the space depending on your needs and style. You might switch from a basic shower to a shower–tub combo or add built-in niches and shelves to increase storage. If the layout allows, installing a window can bring in natural light and make the shower feel more open. You can also consider adding a seat, upgrading the door, or choosing new materials to give the space a fresh look. Whatever direction you take, enjoy the renovation process. Need guidance on your shower upgrade? Contact us for expert help.

Home offices are more popular than ever, and with that growth come several design and functional trends worth exploring. Hybrid furniture is a great option for those without a dedicated office room — pieces like convertible coffee tables can shift into full workstations when needed. Standing desks are also trending, offering notable health benefits and flexibility. Another shift is toward lighter, minimal storage. Bulky filing cabinets are being replaced with sleeker, space-saving solutions. If you’d like more ideas for organizing or decorating your home office, feel free to reach out.

Before finalizing the purchase of a home, it’s important to follow a clear checklist. Start by making sure all contingencies—such as the inspection, appraisal, and financing—are fully resolved. You should also clear the title and secure title insurance to protect yourself from future ownership disputes. Once you receive your final mortgage approval, review your closing disclosure carefully. Then complete a final walk-through to confirm that the property is in the agreed-upon condition. Lastly, gather all required documents so you’re prepared for closing day. If you need more guidance on buying a home, we’re here to help.





