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	<title>Property Maintenance Archives - Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</title>
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	<description>Continental Realty Management Inc. is a 3rd generation family owned and operated property management agency serving central Alabama.</description>
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		<title>Is Going Solar a Smart Investment for Rental Properties? Examining The Benefits of Solar Panels for Landlords</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/10/29/solar-panels-on-rental-property/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Continental Realty Management]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 29 Oct 2023 10:43:09 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=5562</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>In recent years, many landlords have been asking themselves if installing solar panels on their rental property is a good investment. With renewable energy becoming increasingly popular and more accessible than ever before, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Let’s take a closer look at some of the pros and cons of...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/10/29/solar-panels-on-rental-property/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/10/29/solar-panels-on-rental-property/">Is Going Solar a Smart Investment for Rental Properties? Examining The Benefits of Solar Panels for Landlords</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In recent years, many landlords have been asking themselves if installing solar panels on their rental property is a good investment. With renewable energy becoming increasingly popular and more accessible than ever before, the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Let’s take a closer look at some of the pros and cons of adding solar to your rental property.</p>
<h2>What Are the Financial Benefits?</h2>
<p>The most obvious benefit of installing solar panels on a rental property is the financial savings. Installing solar panels can provide sufficient energy to power an entire house or apartment complex so tenants won’t have to pay for their own electricity. That means no more electric bills! Depending on where you live, you may also qualify for state or federal tax credits or subsidies that can help offset the cost of installation. These incentives make it easier and more affordable to make the switch to solar energy.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5733" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Solar-Panels-for-Landlords.jpg" alt="Solar panels on the roof of a home with a terra cotta roof." width="499" height="399" /></p>
<p>Another advantage of adding solar panels is that they don’t require a lot of maintenance. The only upkeep they need is regular cleaning to keep them operating efficiently—and even that can be done with a garden hose! Plus, since there are no moving parts in a typical system, it should last for decades without needing repairs or replacements.</p>
<h2>Environmental Impact</h2>
<p>Solar energy is one of cleanest forms of energy available today and it produces zero emissions when it’s used. By taking advantage of solar energy, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet overall. This is especially important for landlords who rent out multiple units since each unit generates its own emissions from electricity use. With solar panels installed on your rental properties, those emissions will be significantly reduced and even eliminated altogether in some cases. From an individual viewpoint, if you’re looking to reduce your own carbon footprint, removing fossil fuels from your life will significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Going solar, switching to an electric vehicle or taking public transportation, and switching to electric appliances all reduce your use of fossil fuels and your individual carbon footprint as well.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5732" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Benefits-of-Solar-Panels-for-Landlords.jpg" alt="The many benefits of solar panels for property owners." width="566" height="453" /></p>
<h2>Increased Property Value</h2>
<p>When you install solar panels on your rental property, you are investing in its future value. Solar panel installations often increase a property’s value by upwards of 10%, which makes them an attractive selling point for potential buyers down the line. Not only will these investments pay off in financial savings over time but they can also yield a nice return when it comes time to sell your property in the future.</p>
<p>Installing solar panels on a rental property is not only good for the environment but it’s also good for business! Not only do they provide financial savings through lower electricity bills but they also have other long-term benefits such as increased property value and potential government incentives that could help with installation costs upfront. For landlords looking to make their properties more sustainable and efficient, investing in solar panels is definitely worth considering!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/10/29/solar-panels-on-rental-property/">Is Going Solar a Smart Investment for Rental Properties? Examining The Benefits of Solar Panels for Landlords</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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		<title>What Appliances Every Landlord Needs in Their Rental Property</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/08/15/what-appliances-every-landlord-needs-in-their-rental-property/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Continental Realty Management]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:12:16 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rentals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HVAC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Landlords]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Laundry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[property management]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=5566</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Being a landlord comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the major responsibilities is making sure that all your rental properties are up to code and have all the necessary appliances. From refrigerators to microwaves, you need to make sure that every rental property has all the necessary appliances for your tenants. Let’s take...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/08/15/what-appliances-every-landlord-needs-in-their-rental-property/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/08/15/what-appliances-every-landlord-needs-in-their-rental-property/">What Appliances Every Landlord Needs in Their Rental Property</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Being a landlord comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the major responsibilities is making sure that all your rental properties are up to code and have all the necessary appliances. From refrigerators to microwaves, you need to make sure that every rental property has all the necessary appliances for your tenants. Let’s take a look at what appliances are required in a rental property.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5725" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Refrigerators.jpg" alt="A refrigerator in a kitchen." width="458" height="366" /></p>
<h2>Refrigerators</h2>
<p>Refrigerators are a must-have appliance in any rental property. Not only do they provide a place for food storage, but they can also be used to keep drinks cold and store leftovers. Most modern refrigerators come with built-in ice makers and water dispensers, so it’s important to make sure that these features work properly before renting out the unit. Additionally, if you’re looking for energy efficiency, there are several Energy Star models on the market today that can save you money on utility bills.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5726" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Stoves-and-Ovens.jpg" alt="A built-in stove and microwave combo." width="473" height="378" /></p>
<h2>Stoves and Ovens</h2>
<p>Just like refrigerators, stoves/ovens are essential for any rental property. Whether you opt for an electric or gas model should depend on the needs of your tenants as well as local building codes and regulations. If you choose an electric stove/oven, make sure it is properly wired and meets all safety standards to ensure that it won&#8217;t be a fire hazard or an energy drain. As with refrigerators, there are Energy Star models available if you want to save money on utility bills while still providing an efficient cooking experience for your tenants.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5722" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Dishwashers.jpg" alt="A dishwasher with the door open that's full of clean dishes." width="475" height="380" /></p>
<h2>Dishwashers</h2>
<p>Dishwashers may not be necessary in all rental properties, but they can certainly add value when it comes time to rent out the unit. Dishwashers provide an easy way for tenants to clean up after meals without having to hand wash each dish individually—which can be both time consuming and tedious! If you decide to install a dishwasher in your rental property, make sure that it is in good working condition before renting out the unit; otherwise, you could end up dealing with costly repairs later down the line.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5724" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Laundry-Room-Appliances.jpg" alt="A washer and dryer unit in a laundry room." width="503" height="402" /></p>
<h2>Laundry Room Appliances</h2>
<p>Having a washer and dryer in the unit can be a huge plus for tenants. Not only does it save them time and money from having to go out and do their laundry elsewhere, but washing machines and dryers can also increase the value of your rental property significantly. You don’t have to go all out with top of the line models; however, make sure you select reliable brands that will last for at least five years or more with minimal repairs needed during that time frame.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5723" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Heating-and-Cooling-System.jpg" alt="A rental home's heating and cooling system." width="498" height="398" /></p>
<h2>Heating and Cooling System</h2>
<p>Depending on where your rental property is located, you may need an HVAC system or just one or the other (heating or cooling). If you’re in an area where winters are cold or summers are hot and humid, air conditioning is essential! It’s also important that the system you choose is both energy-efficient and eco-friendly so that it doesn’t add too much strain on your tenant&#8217;s utility bills each month.</p>
<p>When it comes to renting out a property, there are certain appliances that are essential for keeping tenants comfortable and happy in their home away from home. Kitchen appliances such as stoves/ovens, refrigerators/freezers, microwaves, and dishwashers can make life easier for them while increasing the value of your rental property significantly. Additionally, installing a washer/dryer set as well as an HVAC system (heating or cooling) can be great advantages if they&#8217;re available in your area. Keep these tips in mind when selecting appliances for your next rental property!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/08/15/what-appliances-every-landlord-needs-in-their-rental-property/">What Appliances Every Landlord Needs in Their Rental Property</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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		<title>Managing Your Rental Property from Afar: A Guide</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/04/10/managing-your-rental-property-from-afar-a-guide/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Continental Realty Management]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 10 Apr 2023 11:55:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Management]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=5492</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Managing rental property remotely can be a great way to make passive income. But it can also be a daunting task. How do you stay on top of all the day-to-day tasks like collecting rent, responding to tenant requests, and maintaining the property? Luckily, with the right tools and strategies, managing rental property remotely can...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/04/10/managing-your-rental-property-from-afar-a-guide/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/04/10/managing-your-rental-property-from-afar-a-guide/">Managing Your Rental Property from Afar: A Guide</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Managing rental property remotely can be a great way to make passive income. But it can also be a daunting task. How do you stay on top of all the day-to-day tasks like collecting rent, responding to tenant requests, and maintaining the property? Luckily, with the right tools and strategies, managing rental property remotely can be a breeze! Let&#8217;s break down how you can do this.</p>
<h2>Choose the Right Tenants</h2>
<p>When it comes to managing rental property from afar, choosing the right tenants is key. Make sure you take the time to thoroughly screen potential tenants before signing any lease agreements. This includes running background checks, credit checks, and even speaking with their current landlords if possible. It’s also important that your lease agreement is clear and enforceable so that any tenant disputes can be easily resolved.</p>
<h2>Invest in Technology</h2>
<p>These days, there are countless tools available to help you manage your rental property remotely. Investing in technology such as automated rent collection software or an app for tracking maintenance requests will save you time and energy while ensuring that everything runs smoothly at your property. Additionally, these types of services often come with customer support teams that are available 24/7 to help with any questions or issues you may have along the way.</p>
<h2>Hire a Property Manager</h2>
<p>If you don&#8217;t have the time or resources to manage your rental property on your own, consider hiring a professional property manager. Not only will they handle all of the day-to-day tasks associated with managing rentals properties like collecting rent payments and responding to tenant requests—they&#8217;ll also act as an extra layer of protection for both you and your tenants in case any legal issues arise. Plus, most reputable management companies offer competitive rates so it&#8217;s worth looking into if you&#8217;re serious about managing rental property from afar.</p>
<p>Managing rental property remotely can seem intimidating at first but it doesn&#8217;t have to be overwhelming! By taking steps such as choosing the right tenants, investing in technology solutions and tools, and hiring experienced professionals when needed, you&#8217;ll be well on your way to successful remote management of your rental properties in no time! Whether you&#8217;re just starting out or already have experience renting out properties, following these tips will help ensure that everything runs smoothly at all times—allowing you to reap the rewards of being a landlord without having to worry about all the details yourself.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/04/10/managing-your-rental-property-from-afar-a-guide/">Managing Your Rental Property from Afar: A Guide</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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		<title>The Pros and Cons of Property Management: How Many Properties Should a Property Manager Manage?</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/03/08/the-pros-and-cons-of-property-management-how-many-properties-should-a-property-manager-manage/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Continental Realty Management]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Mar 2023 09:54:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Management]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=5494</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Whether you’re a landlord just starting out or an experienced property manager, you may be asking yourself how many properties should a property manager manage? This is an important question to consider as managing rental properties can be time-consuming and requires attention to detail. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/03/08/the-pros-and-cons-of-property-management-how-many-properties-should-a-property-manager-manage/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/03/08/the-pros-and-cons-of-property-management-how-many-properties-should-a-property-manager-manage/">The Pros and Cons of Property Management: How Many Properties Should a Property Manager Manage?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Whether you’re a landlord just starting out or an experienced property manager, you may be asking yourself how many properties should a property manager manage? This is an important question to consider as managing rental properties can be time-consuming and requires attention to detail. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of managing multiple properties and consider what is the ideal number of properties for your portfolio.</p>
<h2>Pros of Managing Multiple Properties</h2>
<p>The primary benefit of managing multiple properties is that it increases your potential income. When you manage more properties, you are able to charge higher fees for each property, which in turn can increase your overall profits. Furthermore, if you have multiple tenants in one location, you may be able to offer special deals or discounts to attract new tenants. Additionally, when you manage multiple properties at once, it allows you to build relationships with local vendors and contractors who could help with maintenance tasks as well as provide discounts on materials that are needed for repairs.</p>
<h2>Cons of Managing Multiple Properties</h2>
<p>Despite the potential financial benefits of managing multiple properties, there are some drawbacks as well. Managing more than one property can take up a lot of time and energy. You must stay organized in order to keep track of all the details associated with each property such as rental payments, tenant communication, maintenance needs, etc. If one tenant has an issue with their unit or their rent payment fails to arrive on time, it can quickly become overwhelming if there are multiple units that need your attention at once. Additionally, managing more than one property means that you will also need to make sure that all relevant laws and regulations are being followed for every unit in your portfolio – failure to adhere these rules can result in significant fines or even legal action against your business.</p>
<h2>The Benefits of Limiting Your Units</h2>
<p>Limiting the number of units under your control has several benefits that can help ensure quality service for each unit:</p>
<p><em><strong>1)</strong> You can devote more attention to each unit;</em></p>
<p><em><strong>2)</strong> You can respond more quickly to tenant inquiries;</em></p>
<p><em><strong>3)</strong> You can ensure better tenant satisfaction;</em></p>
<p><em><strong>4)</strong> You can maintain higher rental prices;</em></p>
<p><em><strong>5)</strong> You can avoid burnout from managing too many properties at once.</em></p>
<p>When determining how many units you should manage as a property manager, it’s important to consider all these factors in order to make an informed decision. If you find yourself stretched too thin due to too many responsibilities or feeling overwhelmed by managing multiple properties at once, then it may be time to consider limiting your number of managed units.</p>
<p>Managing multiple rental properties can be a great way to increase your income but it also comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Ultimately the number of rental units that a property manager should manage depends on the individual’s experience level and the amount of time they are willing to dedicate towards managing their portfolio. It’s important for landlords and property managers alike to weigh out the pros and cons before deciding on how many units they should manage at any given time so they can ensure they are getting maximum return on their investment while also taking into account any potential risks associated with taking on too much work at once.</p>
<p>Ultimately it is important that landlords find a balance between maximizing profits while ensuring they are able to adequately meet all the needs associated with each unit in their portfolio; this includes everything from making sure rents get paid on time and responding quickly when maintenance needs arise. With careful consideration given towards these factors along with proper planning and organization skills, landlords should be able to find success regardless of how many units they decide to manage!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/03/08/the-pros-and-cons-of-property-management-how-many-properties-should-a-property-manager-manage/">The Pros and Cons of Property Management: How Many Properties Should a Property Manager Manage?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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		<title>How Property Managers Handle Repairs</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/01/15/how-property-managers-handle-repairs/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Continental Realty Management]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jan 2023 10:49:26 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Management]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=5497</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>As a landlord, you know that repairs and maintenance are part of the job. But how does it work when you hire a property management company? Do they handle all the repairs for you or do you have to pay out of pocket? The answer may surprise you. Let’s dive in and discuss how property...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/01/15/how-property-managers-handle-repairs/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/01/15/how-property-managers-handle-repairs/">How Property Managers Handle Repairs</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As a landlord, you know that repairs and maintenance are part of the job. But how does it work when you hire a property management company? Do they handle all the repairs for you or do you have to pay out of pocket? The answer may surprise you. Let’s dive in and discuss how property managers handle repairs.</p>
<h2>Who is Responsible for Repairs?</h2>
<p>In most cases, the landlord is responsible for all repairs to their rental units. This means that if your tenants experience any maintenance issues, you must take care of them in a timely manner. However, your property manager can help by coordinating with repair technicians and vendors to ensure that the necessary work is completed quickly and efficiently. In some cases, they may even be able to negotiate special discounts on supplies or labor costs.</p>
<h2>Cost Responsibilities</h2>
<p>The first thing to know is that property management companies usually do not pay for repairs directly. Instead, they will typically take on the responsibility of scheduling and paying contractors. In most cases, the cost of any repairs will come out of the rental income collected by the company—not out of your pocket.</p>
<h2>When Does the Property Manager Pay for Repairs?</h2>
<p>If an issue arises due to negligence on the part of the property manager, then it&#8217;s possible that they may be responsible for covering some or all of the costs associated with making those repairs. For instance, if your property manager failed to inspect your rental unit prior to leasing it to new tenants, and a major issue was discovered after move-in day due to their negligence, then they may be required to cover those repair costs. It’s also important to note that certain types of damage caused by tenant neglect may also leave landlords liable for certain repair costs as well.</p>
<h2>What About Emergency Repairs?</h2>
<p>In many cases, unexpected emergencies can arise at any time—especially in older buildings or rentals with dated plumbing systems and electrical wiring. In these instances, whether or not your Property Manager covers these emergency repair costs will depend on several factors such as whether or not they were aware of any potential problems before they occurred and if they took any steps to prevent them from happening (such as performing regular building inspections). As always, be sure to check your contract with your Property Manager so you know who is responsible for paying for what type of repairs before signing anything!</p>
<p>Ultimately, when it comes down to deciding who pays for what types of repairs in a rental unit managed by a property management company, there are no hard-and-fast rules—it depends largely on who was negligent (if anyone) when an issue arose and what type of agreement has been reached between the landlord and their property manager beforehand. Be sure to read through your contract carefully so that you understand exactly who is responsible for which types of repairs before signing anything! That way you can make sure that everyone involved understands their obligations when it comes time to make those necessary fix-ups!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2023/01/15/how-property-managers-handle-repairs/">How Property Managers Handle Repairs</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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		<title>7 Simple Ideas To Spruce Up Your Home During Lockdown</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2020/04/10/7-simple-ideas-to-spruce-up-your-home-during-lockdown/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Continental Realty Management]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2020 22:36:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Home and Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[clean up spruce up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lockdown]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=3229</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>During this period that we are all advised to stay at home, we now have more time on our hands to see the entirety of our house, inspect every nook and cranny, and most importantly, we have a couple of weeks for some simple repairs and little side projects to do around the house. We...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2020/04/10/7-simple-ideas-to-spruce-up-your-home-during-lockdown/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2020/04/10/7-simple-ideas-to-spruce-up-your-home-during-lockdown/">7 Simple Ideas To Spruce Up Your Home During Lockdown</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">During this period that we are all advised to stay at home, we now have more time on our hands to see the entirety of our house, inspect every nook and cranny, and most importantly, we have a couple of weeks for some simple repairs and little side projects to do around the house. We understand that these are trying times, and it’s so easy to get all worked up and stressed out at what’s happening around the world. Hence, instead of letting ourselves be consumed by anxiety and fear, let’s try to turn things up a bit and bring some positivity into our days and into our homes. </span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pre-outbreak, you’ve probably spent so little time in your home, working round the clock, finishing necessary household chores with the few hours you’ve got, or if you’re a jet-setter, you’ve probably been away most of the time, leaving your house in disrepair. Now, since you have no other choice but to stay at home, you might as well use this time to give your home some tender loving care. Check your place and look for areas that need repair. For sure, there are some things you’ve been holding off for a while, like that wall paint that’s been chipping off for quite a while now or some loose screws or areas that needed cleaning. Either way, there might be some sections where you could improve or decorate better and there’s no perfect time to do it than now. With that, we hope to give you a few things you can do to spruce up your home during the lockdown.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3231 size-large" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image8-1024x1024.jpg" alt="image of plants" width="1024" height="1024" srcset="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image8-980x980.jpg 980w, https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image8-480x480.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw" /></p>
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<h2><b>1 &#8211; Breathe life into your garden. </b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When was the last time you hung out in your backyard? When was the last barbecue party you were so confident and proud to invite guests over to marvel at your immaculately pruned garden filled with bright and colorful flowers in their full bloom? If you can’t even remember when’s the last time you’ve actually felt relaxed and at peace just looking at your backyard and enjoying the sunshine, then that&#8217;s a strong enough reason for you to go and bring back life into your garden. </span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Get your gardening tools out and your hat and gloves on as you weed out unwanted plants and trim the shrubbery. But if you have adequate space or some pots lying around, we suggest planting some vegetables too. Not only is it going to be fresh and organic, but it’s high time that you pay attention to your health and nutrition plus that’s less grocery runs in the future! No need to go out to buy the seeds, you can simply take out the seeds from fresh tomato, dry it out under the sun and plant it. </span></p>
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<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-3232 aligncenter" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image7-1024x680.jpg" alt="home with fresh cut grass" width="1024" height="680" srcset="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image7-980x650.jpg 980w, https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image7-480x319.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw" /></p>
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<h2><b>2 -Mow your lawn.</b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Once you’re done with your backyard, check out your lawn. Your front yard says a lot about you and it can dramatically affect your home’s curb appeal and what your visitors and neighbors think about you too. So, if you have a lawn, go mow and manicure it. Remove the weeds, especially those growing near your asphalt driveway if you have one because not only it is unsightly, but it could also undermine the structural material underneath.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3233" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image5-768x1024.jpg" alt="a neat and tidy closet" width="768" height="1024" /></p>
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<h2><b>3 -Tidy up and declutter your home. </b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We’re past the Marie Kondo trend but this is the best moment to apply what you’ve learned from her </span><a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/organizing/a25846191/what-is-the-konmari-method/"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">KonMari </span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">method of tidying up. Remember that sometimes, less is more so start decluttering your room and remove all that junk you’ve been harboring in your closet for all these years. Organize your stuff, label them and store them properly in your closet, shelves, or basement. If there are things that you may no longer need, consider donating them and let those in need put them to good use. Try and find a reputable <a href="http://whatmanandvan.co.uk/">man and van service</a> to safely transport the goods to your chosen charity so you don&#8217;t have to do it on your own.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3234" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image4-683x1024.jpg" alt="cleaning supplies" width="683" height="1024" /></p>
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<h2><b>4 -Do a general cleaning of your property.</b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tidying up should not be limited to decluttering your rooms and your closet because now more than ever, you can conduct a general cleaning of your whole property. Sweep away the cobwebs, scrub away the mold and mildew on your window siding or bathroom tiles, powerwash the exterior walls and your driveway, and clean the gutters. This could be an exhausting job for just one person so ask your partner and family members to help you out and this arduous task could just become a productive and fun-filled activity for your family. </span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3235" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image3-1024x683.jpg" alt="a basement arcade!" width="1024" height="683" srcset="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image3-980x654.jpg 980w, https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image3-480x320.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw" /></p>
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<h2><b>5 -Transform your basement. </b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A basement makeover could be a little over the top for some of you who do not have the tools and materials for a project like this. But for those who have long been dreaming of converting their basement into an extra guest room, an entertainment area or a man cave, this is the ideal DIY project for you this season. Nonetheless, you can start transforming your basement by first cleaning it thoroughly.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3236" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image2-1024x682.jpg" alt="modern architecture home" width="1024" height="682" srcset="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image2-980x653.jpg 980w, https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image2-480x320.jpg 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw" /></p>
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<h2><b>6 -Repair your driveway. </b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Just like your front yard, your driveway is a critical element in your overall curb appeal. If you’re so much into keeping things in order for your lawn, then it is only sensible that you also pay attention to your driveway. Nothing beats a front yard with a well-manicured grass and a spotless driveway. After all, your driveway serves a lot of purpose for you whether it is for parking your car or a space for your kids to play, it’s an essential part of your house and you should be able to keep it in good shape so as to also avoid accidents. </span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now, simple driveway repairs can easily be done on your own. Depending on the type of driveway material you have, there are quick DIY fixes that you can learn simply by making a Google search or watching a YouTube tutorial for a driveway repair. However, if your pavement is suffering from more serious flaws such as massive cracks and large potholes, we’re sorry but you might need an expert to help you solve your driveway problems. In this case, you might have to wait a little longer if your preferred paving contractor is temporarily closed at this time. Nevertheless, you can always do a Google search for contractors near your area. For instance, Lancaster Paving Pros is an </span><a href="https://www.lancasterpavingpros.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">asphalt paving company in Lancaster, PA</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that you can always call to inquire about their services with a free quote from their team of experts.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-large wp-image-3237" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/image6-684x1024.jpg" alt="furniture in front of white brick wall" width="684" height="1024" /></p>
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<h2><b>7 -Add interesting focal points. </b></h2>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After all the cleaning and repairs are settled, here comes the exciting part&#8211;decorating! With your house all cleaned up, isn’t it easier to see which parts of your house can improve better with some simple design tricks? Again, our guiding principle is “Less is more” so if we want to achieve a minimalist aesthetic then we have to create focal points or accents that emphasize the simplistic beauty of your humble abode. Some tricks include adding a pop of color either through repainting a wall or placing pieces of furniture that has a bright color that complements a white wall. Brick walls are also in trend nowadays, so it would be nice to have a wallpaper or even some brick tiles plastered against your kitchen area. </span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Plants would also be a great addition to your home. Start putting plants on window sills, on the corners of the room or at your front door. And lastly, don’t forget to work on a theme to unify all the design elements and make it look cohesive and in sync. </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2020/04/10/7-simple-ideas-to-spruce-up-your-home-during-lockdown/">7 Simple Ideas To Spruce Up Your Home During Lockdown</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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		<title>Top 3 Mold Mistakes &#8211; Indoor Air Quality and Your Home</title>
		<link>https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2019/11/20/top-3-mold-mistakes-indoor-air-quality-and-your-home/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Shanna]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Nov 2019 11:00:16 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Property Maintenance]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://continentalrealtyteam.com/?p=1882</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Did you know? One square inch can contain more than 65 million mold spores. Mold develops where there is excess water and moisture like humidity. Unfortunately, people often make the problem worse because they don’t know what to do next. &#160; Mistake #1 Using a fan to dry an area where mold is present or...<a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2019/11/20/top-3-mold-mistakes-indoor-air-quality-and-your-home/" class="epl-more-link">Read More&#8594;</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2019/11/20/top-3-mold-mistakes-indoor-air-quality-and-your-home/">Top 3 Mold Mistakes &#8211; Indoor Air Quality and Your Home</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="post-component-3377ee2" class="blog-post-component blog-post-component-subtitle" data-blog-component="subtitle">
<h1 class="inner-subtitle" data-blog-inner="subtitle">Did you know?</h1>
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<h2 class="inner-subtitle" data-blog-inner="subtitle">One square inch can contain more than 65 million mold spores.</h2>
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<p>Mold develops where there is excess water and moisture like humidity. Unfortunately, people often make the problem worse because they don’t know what to do next.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Mistake #1</h2>
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<h2><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1884" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/vintage-fan-collection-little-giant-300x259.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="259" />Using a fan to dry an area where mold is present or suspected</h2>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Using a fan to dry out an area BEFORE mold is properly cleaned up <b> will cause mold spores to become airborne.</b> This puts you and your family n danger of potentially serious health problems.</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Mistake #2</h2>
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<h2>Using bleach to clean mold</h2>
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<p>Treating mold with bleach and water <b>can actually feed further mold growth.</b> <a href="https://www.durangohomesforsale.com/mold-cleaning-solutions.php">While bleach kills live mold</a>, it does not kill or remove all mold spores embedded in semi-porous items such as drywall, wood, or cardboard. Never use bleach to treat mold on these surfaces. You can use bleach to treat mold on non-porous surfaces like glass, hard plastic, and metal.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Mistake #3</h2>
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<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-1885" src="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/mold3-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<h2>Ignoring Mold</h2>
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<p>Mold can create <b>serious health issues,</b> especially if you already have respiratory issues. Contact a professional immediately if you detect mold or suspect it.</p>
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<h2 class="inner-subtitle" data-blog-inner="subtitle">What to Do When You Find or Suspect Mold</h2>
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<p><b>Find &amp; Fix the Cause of Water Issues ASAP</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Mold develops where there is excess water and moisture like humidity. Find out where the water or humidity is coming from and repair the issue as soon as possible!</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Do Not Dry the Area Until Cleaned</b></p>
<ul>
<li>As we said before, drying an area with mold before cleaning it, can actually spread it.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Limit Your Exposure to Mold</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Wear gloves, a N95 respirator mask, and eye protection when cleaning the mold.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Clean Small Areas Immediately</b></p>
<ul>
<li><b>Areas of</b> <b>less than</b> <b>10 square ft</b> . can be cleaned by scrubbing with a household detergent. There are several products that you can find in hardware or home improvement stores such as Lowe’s or Home Depot. But read the ingredients on the label carefully. Products remove mold and mildew are a good choice. Products that remove mold and mildew <i><b>stains</b> </i>usually contain bleach.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>  <b>If the mold is embedded into wood or drywall</b> this may not work. In that case, contact your property manager or a mold remediation company to ensure there isn’t a health risk to you or your family.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Clean Large Areas</b></p>
<ul>
<li>As we mentioned above, due to potential health risks, it is important to rely on experts to treat the problem.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Dry the Area Quickly</b></p>
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<p><b> </b></p>
<ul>
<li>After cleaning the mold, it is critical to dry the area as quickly as possible using drying equipment like a dehumidifier. Then the area needs to be tested with a moisture meter to confirm all moisture has been eliminated.</li>
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<h2 class="inner-subtitle" data-blog-inner="subtitle">Tips for Mold Prevention</h2>
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<p>To prevent a dangerous and costly problem like mold, inspect your home and property regularly. Here are a few helpful inspection guidelines:</p>
<p><b>Daily</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Inspect ceilings and walls for water stains.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Monthly</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Check for drips or signs of <a href="https://utterlyhome.com/water-heater-leaking/">water leaking</a> at all supply lines, sinks, toilets, <a href="https://plumbinglab.com/best-sonic-pebble-nugget-ice-makers-reviewed/">ice makers</a>, etc.</li>
<li>Replace or clean A/C filters</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Annually</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Service your HVAC system</li>
<li>Clean gutters and downspouts</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Vacations</b> <b>and Long Business Trips</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Have someone check your house while you are away so if something happens – like a pipe burst or AC leakage – you won’t come home to a very unpleasant and costly mess.</li>
</ul>
<p>Mold is a serious health risk, especially in places like Alabama where the humidity is so high in the summertime. Don&#8217;t take chances with your health. If you suspect mold, deal with it immediately.</p>
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<p>The post <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com/2019/11/20/top-3-mold-mistakes-indoor-air-quality-and-your-home/">Top 3 Mold Mistakes &#8211; Indoor Air Quality and Your Home</a> appeared first on <a href="https://continentalrealtyteam.com">Continental Realty Management Inc. - A Property Management Company serving Birmingham, Alabama</a>.</p>
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