Category: Post Notes

Pillar To Post Newsletter Volume 22, No. 6

Posted on November 10, 2022 by - Post Notes

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postnotes

NEWS AND INFORMATION

VOLUME 22, NO. 6

SAFE AT HOME

Holiday & Winter Fire Safety: Top Tips

Taking some simple, smart precautions can help keep your family – and your home – safe during this holiday season.

1. Always use non-flammable decorations both indoors and outdoors.

2. Check holiday light strands for damaged or broken wires and plugs. Enjoy indoor lights only while someone is at home and turn them off before going to bed. Most lights now have LED bulbs, making them energy efficient and cool to the touch.

3. Busy with holiday cooking and baking? Kitchen fires are the leading cause of house fires. Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher within easy reach and know how to use it.

4. Keep live Christmas trees in a water-filled stand and check daily for dehydration. Dried-out trees are extremely dangerous and should be discarded right away.

5. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, be sure the chimney has been cleaned.

6. Candles add a lovely ambiance to your holiday home. Place them in stable holders and keep them away from flammable items, drafts, pets, and children. Battery-powered “candles” are an attractive and safe option, especially for households with young children, and are widely available.

7. Children should not have access to or be allowed to use matches, lighters or candles.

8. Keep space heaters away from bedding, curtains, paper—anything flammable. Never leave a space heater unattended while in use.

9. Make sure smoke alarms are in good working order. Test monthly at a minimum.

Enjoy a happy and safe holiday season!

HOME INSIGHTS

How’s Your Home’s Water Quality?

Water quality in the home is a concern for many homeowners. While municipal supplies are rigorously tested and monitored, certain conditions in the home can affect water quality after it’s delivered from the water main.

  • Galvanized pipes are not uncommon in older homes. They are usually corroded and should be replaced. They can rust away from the inside out, causing leaks and water damage, and can also trap contamination from old lead service lines.

  • Whenever possible, replace pipes and fixtures containing lead with new materials.

  • Filtration systems can effectively reduce environmental contaminants. Options include faucet or pitcher filters, plumbed, and reverseosmosis filters that treat the entire home’s supply.

  • Other contaminants that don’t affect health may adversely alter water taste, odor, and/or color.

  • Well maintenance should be on a regular schedule and the water tested regularly for safety and quality.

MARKET MOVEMENTS

Does a Pre-listing Home Inspection Make Sense?

By identifying potential issues before it goes on the market, you can list a home with greater confidence about its condition. This can mean cleaner offers, getting to closing faster, and maximizing the selling price for your client.

A pre-listing home inspection can uncover previously unknown problems – major and minor – allowing sellers the opportunity to make repairs, updates or replacements as needed or as they wish. If they choose not to address these issues, making the inspection report available to potential buyers builds buyer trust through transparency. As such, it’s a great marketing tool for homes sold “as-is.”

The Pillar To Post Home Inspection includes our comprehensive report delivered in printed and digital formats and features our newest technological innovations. With this valuable information in hand, sellers can decide on the next steps prior to listing. In the end, having well-informed sellers and buyers works to everyone’s advantage.

The Ultimate Home Inspection ExperienceTM

Pillar To Post Home Inspection Packages includes even more exclusive and innovative features than ever. These new services deliver speed, ease and convenience, getting you to closings faster, saving you time, and delighting your clients.

Standard with every Home Inspection:

PTP360*

Interactive 360° Visual Inspection Summary

  • Brings the inspection report to life
  • Includes every room and the exterior
  • Accessible any time
PTP360

PTPEstimates*

Powered by PunchList

Cost estimate for Inspection Summary items

  • Learn what recommended repairs will cost
  • Estimate based on local costs
  • Request an estimate with just a click

Also included with Premium and Prestige Packages:

PTPFloor Plan

An accurate floor plan of the entire home

  • Use to determine furniture fit and placement
  • Share dimensions with contractors for estimating
PTPFloorPlan

PTPHomeManual

Powered by Centriq

The digital owner's manual for the home

  • Download user manuals/warranty information
  • Find safety recalls on appliances
  • Indicated age and useful remaining life of systems
PTPHomeManual
Get a preview here

*Where available. Not all services are offered by every office. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Experience the Pillar To Post difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!

Pillar To Post Newsletter Volume 22, No. 5

Posted on September 12, 2022 by - Post Notes

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postnotes

NEWS AND INFORMATION

VOLUME 22, NO. 5

REALTOR SAFETY ISSUE

Showing Empty Properties

Take these smart steps to protect and empower yourself against attack or theft.

  • Be sure to use the lockbox property-key procedure that has been established to improve real estate agent safety so that keys don’t fall into the wrong hands.

  • Show properties before dark. If you must show a property after dark, alert or bring along an associate turn on all lights as you go through, and don’t lower any shades or draw curtains or blinds.

  • Check in with someone on your team once an hour to let people know where you are.

  • Prepare a scenario so that you can leave, or to encourage someone who makes you uncomfortable to leave. Examples: Your cell phone went off and you have call your office; you left some important information in your car; another agent with buyers is on his way.

  • When showing a property, always leave the front door unlocked for a quick exit while you and the client are inside. As you enter each room, stand near the door.

  • Lock your purse in the car trunk before you arrive. Carry only non-valuable business items (except for your cell phone), and do not wear expensive or watches, or appear to be carrying large sums of money.

  • Park at the curb in front of the property rather than in the driveway. It is much easier to escape in your vehicle if you don’t have to back out of a while parked in a driveway another vehicle could purposefully or accidentally trap you.

September
is Realtor
Safety Month

The safety of Realtors is paramount to all of us at Pillar To Post, so this issue of Post Notes reminds brokers, agents and their teams how to stay safe.

Additional resources:

Please visit these websites for additional safety information, tools and resources:

www.nar.realtor/safety

www.beverlycarterfoundation.org

Sources: Louisiana REALTORS® Association; Washington Real Estate Safety Council; City of Albuquerque, NM, Nevada County Association of REALTORS® City of Mesa, AZ

Top 10 Tips
for Personal Safety

  1. Touch base. Always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll return. Arrange for your office to call you to check in.

  2. Don’t get lost. Always know the exact address of where you’re going. If you use a navigation app, pull over and stop in a safe place if you’ve made a wrong turn.

  3. Sense your surroundings. Is there questionable activity in the area of a property you’re showing? Is anyone loitering? Follow your instincts if you feel you should leave. Leave!

  4. Don’t go it alone. Have an associate or other colleague host open houses with you.

  5. Limit the view. If you’re working late, use window coverings so that you’re not visible to passersby or a potential attacker.

  6. Go on the defense. Learn some self-defense skills. Many health clubs, martial arts studios and community colleges offer basic classes.

  7. Choose flight over fight. Self defense is a good idea, but the primary goal in any threatening situation is to escape from immediate danger and call for help.

  8. Park for protection. Always park in a well-lit, visible location whether you’re parking at your office, an open house, or an empty property.

  9. Make calling for help easy. Program important numbers into your cell phone, including your office, roadside assistance and 911.

  10. Know who you’re dealing with. Ask for ID, take a photo of a client’s license plate. A criminal won’t be comfortable with this and may be thwarted.

Source: NAR Realtor Safety Resource Kit.

Office Safety Action Plan

Personal safety in the office is important to everyone. Here are some elements to include in your office safety action plan.

Initial meeting with clients
Hold the first in-person client meeting in or just outside your office rather than at properties or at home. It’s also a good idea to introduce them to a colleague on-site.

Client ID
All first-time clients must provide a driver’s license, state ID or other official photo ID. The office will retain a copy of the ID for security purposes. You can download a Client Profile Form at www.beverlycarterfoundation.org.

Distress code
Implement a verbal distress code—a secret word or phrase that can be casually worked into conversation if you feel threatened and the person you are with can overhear your conversation.

Buddy system
If you’re uncomfortable meeting with clients alone or hosting open houses alone request another agent or employee to accompany you.

Privacy first
Keep personal information private. Don’t discuss where you live, after-work, or vacation plans in front of prospective clients, new colleagues, or anyone with whom you’re not comfortable.

Limit access
Make sure all doors other than the main entrance are secured and have a clear exit route from the front desk to the door.

Solo security
If you encounter a stranger while working late or alone, say something like “My supervisor will be right with you.” to give the impression you’re not there alone.

Know your business neighbors
Get to recognize the staff of other nearby businesses and be aware of their schedules. This will benefit everyone.

Sources: Beverly Carter Foundation

Future home owners and realtor listen to the professional Home Inspector's report.

The Ultimate Home Inspection ExperienceSM

Pillar To Post Home Inspection Packages include even more exclusive and innovative features than ever. These new services deliver speed, ease and convenience, getting you to closings faster, saving you time, and delighting your clients.

Standard with every Home Inspection:

PTP360*

Interactive 360° Visual Inspection Summary

  • Brings the inspection report to life
  • Includes every room and the exterior
  • Accessible any time
PTP360

PTPEstimates*

Powered by PunchList

Cost estimate for Inspection Summary items

  • Learn what recommended repairs will cost
  • Estimate based on local costs
  • Request an estimate with just a click

Also included with Premium and Prestige Packages:

PTPFloor Plan

An accurate floor plan of the entire home

  • Use to determine furniture fit and placement
  • Share dimensions with contractors for estimating
PTPFloorPlan

PTPHomeManual

Powered by Centriq

The digital owner's manual for the home

  • Download user manuals/warranty information
  • Find safety recalls on appliances
  • Indicated age and useful remaining life of systems
PTPHomeManual
Get a preview here

*Where available. Not all services are offered by every office. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Experience the Pillar To Post difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!

Pillar To Post Newsletter Volume 22, No. 4

Posted on July 18, 2022 by - Post Notes

Ultimate Home Inspection
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postnotes

NEWS AND INFORMATION

VOLUME 22, NO. 2

The Ultimate Home Inspection ExperienceSM

Pillar To Post Home Inspection Packages include even more exclusive and innovative features than ever. These new services deliver speed, ease and convenience, getting you to closings faster, saving you time, and delighting your clients.

Standard with every Home Inspection:

PTP360*

Interactive 360° Visual Inspection Summary

  • Brings the inspection report to life
  • Includes every room and the exterior
  • Accessible any time
PTP360

PTPEstimates*

Powered by PunchList

Cost estimate for Inspection Summary items

  • Learn what recommended repairs will cost
  • Estimate based on local costs
  • Request an estimate with just a click
PTPEstimates

Also included with Premium and Prestige Packages:

PTPFloor Plan

An accurate floor plan of the entire home

  • Use to determine furniture fit and placement
  • Share dimensions with contractors for estimating
PTPFloorPlan

PTPHomeManual

Powered by Centriq

The digital owner's manual for the home

  • Download user manuals/warranty information
  • Find safety recalls on appliances
  • Indicated age and useful remaining life of systems
PTPHomeManual
Get a preview here

*Where available. Not all services are offered by every office. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Here’s what our homebuyers are saying about

The Ultimate Home InspectionSM

Technology coupled with deep knowledge allows us to provide an exceptional home inspection with unique and innovative features, all delivered within a seamless brand experience. This experience, and the people who deliver it, has made Pillar To Post North America’s largest home inspection company.

“Quick response time. A very thorough inspection with photos, a binder and explanations of each issue. The PTP360 video walk through is amazing! I love that we have everything we need to make improvements and keep accurate updates of our home moving forward. A+.”

“As a new homeowner, I now have confidence in my home and the tools to keep it in great shape for the future. Our inspector was kind, professional, and explained everything to me in a way I could understand. He was patient and helpful with all my questions.”

“We were able to request a no-cost third-party estimate for recommended repairs called out in our report. I don’t know of any other inspection company offering anything like PTPEstimates.*”

“Very thorough. Explained all findings. Really liked the thermal imaging, PTPFloorPlan, and interactive Visual Summary. Would recommend to others looking to have a thorough inspection.”

“Pillar To Post is the most thorough and engaging inspection experience we have had. The 3D record will help us plan to move in, and the appliance records in our PTPHomeManual will last us long after the closing.”

“Pillar To Post was extremely thorough in their inspection and provided quality, easy-to-understand feedback, which I greatly appreciated as a first time home buyer. PTP360, the detailed PTPFloorPlan and list of repairs were extremely useful as we prepared to move in. I highly recommend using their services.”

“Our inspector was amazing. He was very thorough throughout the entire process and so communicative. The PTPFloorPlan and PTPHomeManual are useful and awesome!”

SEASONAL SENSE

Top Tips to Get Your Grill On!

There’s nothing better than cooking out on perfect summer day. Before you fire up the grill, review our top 6 safety tips:

1. Make sure the grill is on a stable surface and can’t be tipped over. If it has locking casters, check to see that they’re engaged.

2. Never use a grill under an overhang, porch, carport or deck, in a garage or indoors.

3. Keep young children and pets away from the grill during and after cooking. Charcoal grills in particular can remain very hot for a long time.

4. Periodically check hoses and connections on gas grills throughout the season. Replace cracked or brittle hoses immediately. Propane tanks must never be stored in a garage or other structure at any time.

5. Use a charcoal chimney starter instead of lighter fluid to get the coals going. Not only is a chimney starter safer, but your meal will taste better! If you use fluid, never add it to coals once the fire has been lit.

6. Help prevent grease fires by removing accumulated grease and residue from inside the grill lid every 5-6 uses. Keep baking soda nearby to extinguish a grease fire within the grill unit.

AROUND THE HOUSE

Right Tree, Right Place

“Location, location, location” doesn’t only apply to real estate. Locating trees in the right spot on your property can make your yard more pleasant and prevent headaches down the road.

• A common problem is trees that grow too large for their location. To avoid this, research how tall and wide a particular tree will be at maturity. That lovely sapling at the nursery could grow up to be a giant you don’t have space for.

• Don’t plant trees too close to the house. At full size it may damage the roof, gutters or the structure itself and need to be cut back or removed.

• If a tree you’re considering is deciduous (loses its leaves each fall) will the winter sun cause nearby rooms to be too bright?

• Trees with aggressive and/or shallow root systems shouldn’t be planted near the house, pavement or other surfaces as they can eventually cause serious damage to walkways, the driveway or the foundation.r best production.

There are so many wonderful trees available – and by doing some homework you’re sure to make a great choice!

Experience the Pillar To Post Difference. Schedule a home inspection today!

Pillar To Post Newsletter VOLUME 22, NO. 3

Posted on May 16, 2022 by - Post Notes

NEWS AND INFORMATION - VOLUME 22. NO. 3

Flowers in a small vase

SEASONAL SENSE

Your Summer Checklist

Spread these tasks over a few weeks and you’ll be set for a worry-free,
comfortable summer.

INDOORS              

  • Change the rotation of ceiling fans to the summer setting (usually counterclockwise) and give the unit a good dusting.
  • Close the chimney damper to prevent insects from entering and to help keep cool air in.
  • Switch out heavy bedding for lightweight summer fabrics. Have the winter bedding cleaned before storing it away for the season
  • Repot houseplants to give their roots a fresh start for the summer.

OUTDOORS

  • Power wash decks and patios and seal surfaces as appropriate.
  • If paint is peeling, cracking, or chipped, repair and repaint now to limit damage to the underlying materials.
  • Remove window screens and clean them with a soft brush and soapy water. Rinse well and allow them to dry in the sun before reinstalling.
  • Have the air conditioning unit serviced to ensure peak operation. Promote good air flow by keeping plants around the outside unit trimmed back.
  • Clear dirt and debris from gutters and eaves.
  • Seal driveway cracks and keep walkways clear of debris and overgrown plants.

INSPECTION INSIGHTS

After Closing Inspections For Peace Of Mind

If you had to waive your home inspection to get your offer accepted, you are not alone. But that doesn’t mean it’s too late to benefit from a home inspection.

Why get an After Closing Inspection:

  1. Safety: Detect safety or health hazards
  2. Planning: Identify needed repairs/upgrades so you can budget for them
  3. Documentation: Recorded condition of the home could be important for home warranty claims or something not disclosed by the seller
  4. Learning: It’s the perfect opportunity to learn about the operation and features of the home
  5. And much more: Get a floor plan, a 360° visual inspection summary, recall notifications and more

There’s no better way to get to know your new home than a thorough, professional home inspection. Schedule an inspection today!

The Ultimate Home InspectionSM

Pillar To Post Home Inspection Packages include even more exclusive and innovative features than ever. These new services deliver speed, ease and convenience, getting you to closings faster, saving you time, and delighting your clients.

inspection
Couple on the Couch

Standard with every Home Inspection:

PTP360*

Interactive 360° Visual Inspection Summary

  • Brings the inspection report to life
  • Includes every room and the exterior
  • Accessible any time
PTP360

PTPEstimates*

Powered by PunchList

Cost estimate for Inspection Summary items

  • Learn what recommended repairs will cost
  • Estimate based on local costs
  • Request an estimate with just a click
PTP Estimates, Hammer on Shingles

Also included with Premium and Prestige Packages:

PTPFloor Plan

An accurate floor plan of the entire home

  • Use to determine furniture fit and placement
  • Share dimensions with contractors for estimating
PTPFloorPlan

PTPHomeManual

Powered by Centriq

The digital owner's manual for the home

  • Download user manuals/warranty information
  • Find safety recalls on appliances
  • Indicated age and useful remaining life of systems
PTPHomeManual
Get a preview here

*Where available. Not all services are offered by every office. Each office is independently owned and operated.

SMART LIVING

Vacation Planning For Your Home

Ready to hit the road? While you may already monitor a security setup remotely, here’s some more good advice to give you added peace of mind about your home while you’re away.

  • Make your home appear occupied. Schedule lights throughout the house to turn off and on at various times after dark using simple plug-in timers or a smartphone/smart speaker-controlled app.
  • Use extra caution when referencing your vacation on social media. Information spreads quickly, and you don’t want it to get into the wrong hands. Consider refraining from posting photos and updates until you’re back home
  • Tell your close friends and trusted neighbors of your travel plans. Let them know when you’re expecting to return and how you can be reached if there’s an emergency.
  • Have the post office hold your mail and suspend any newspaper and package deliveries, or ask a neighbor to collect them for you.
  • Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway on occasion so it looks like there’s someone at home.
  • Arrange to have someone mow the lawn in your absence if you’ll be gone for more than a week or so.
  • Close the window coverings on the first floor so would-be thieves aren’t tempted by valuables and other items visible from outside.
  • If possible, load your vacation gear into the car while it’s in the garage so you’re not announcing to passersby that you’re on your way out of town.
  • Lock the garage, gates and sheds. Don’t forget to lock any side doors and doors leading into the house from the garage.

    • Now relax and enjoy your time away!

Scenic Lake View

Experience the Pillar To Post Difference. Schedule a home inspection today!