Should You Buy or Sell Your Home First?

There are many variables involved in this classic real estate question and there is no universal correct answer. It basically comes down to your specific circumstances.

If you decide to sell your home first; this way you will not find yourself at a disadvantage at the negotiating table, feeling pressured to accept an offer that is below market value because you have to meet a purchase dead-line.

Another advantage to selling first is having the time to get pre-approved for your mortgage and see all the housing options in the price range you'd like to buy. There is generally much less pressure and stress when you sell first, which lessens the risk of owning two houses at the same time, but if you have the money to make two mortgage payments, the pressure is off. If you need to sell your house because of job relocation or in order to qualify for a loan, then you also have no choice, you will have to sell first.

Selling first isn't the perfect solution, you may find yourself under a tight deadline to find another house, not being able to find a house you like, be forced to live with family, friends or in temporary quarters or have to move twice. Whichever way you go, it is not an easy decision, but it always seems to work out in the end.

Your Heating System

The efficiency of a heating system depends on the amount of fuel consumed to meet heating needs. Using less fuel means your system has increased its energy efficiency. One way to maximize output using the least amount of fuel is to reduce air leakage. Before deciding to replace or upgrade your present heating system you will have to consider how much of your present system can be saved. Read more...

Protect Yourself

Every year have the fuel-burning equipment in your home, such as your furnace and fireplace, inspected and maintained by a Tehnical Standards ans Safety Authority (TSSA) registered heating contractor.
If your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage, you're legally required to install a CO alarm near all bedrooms. Read more...

Heating Tips

Turning down the thermostat is a good way to save heat.

Replacing weather stripping will cut down on drafts and prevent furnace to work harder.

Close the curtains or window coverings at night so they act as barriers to reduce drafts.

Good insulation is sure way to reduce your heating and cooling costs.

Keep your heating or cooling registers clean and unobstructed for even heating or cooling.

Heating system work can be inexpensive or quite costly depending on how much efficiency you want to buy.

Upgrade thermostat - programmable thermostats can help you cut your energy bill by 10 percent or more.