When it comes to buying a home, timing is everything. Here’s why you might want to start looking for a property this month, as January offers a distinct advantage to home buyers.  

January Is a Slow Month in the Real Estate Industry  

The lead-up to the holidays can be quite expensive for many families. In addition to buying gifts for friends and family, many households host dinners and parties to celebrate the season. These costs can add up exponentially, and many people institute a spending freeze once the new year rolls around.  

How can this benefit home buyers? You’ll be in a better place where negotiations are concerned, as sellers will be more flexible due to the lack of business. That means you could secure your property for less money than if you purchased during the peak selling season.  

Tips for Finding the Home of Your Dreams This Winter 

• Determine your budget before you start shopping 

• Consider all the costs that can apply to homeownership (insurance, maintenance, etc.) 

• Research different types of financing to see which one works best for you 

How Fiesta Homes Can Help 

Here at Fiesta Homes, we believe in helping buyers find the property of their dreams for a price they can afford. Our floor plans are suited to all types of budgets and we can help you better understand different financing options. If you’re ready to take the homeownership plunge in Las Cruces, please call 575-525-4680 today. You can also contact us to learn more.  

Clean the Gutters

Rain gutters prevent roof damage, but only if they’re maintained correctly. Clearing leaves and other debris from the gutters facilitates the smooth flow of water, which is essential for avoiding moisture damage on the roof. While cleaning gutters, make sure the gutter downspout is pointed away from the home to prevent moisture damage in other areas.

Reinforce Weatherproofing

Weatherproofing materials keep the doors and windows in your home protected against drafts and moisture. Because these materials can break down over time, checking them in fall is key. If you notice that weatherproofing is no longer protecting your home, replace it to fortify the property against cold weather. Weatherproofing can also save you money on heating bills as it boosts energy efficiency.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Exposed plumbing pipes can easily freeze during fall, which can lead to a stoppage of water or worse if the pipe bursts from the increasing pressure. You can insulate exposed pipes with special coverings, as well as devices like heat tape. Insulating pipes during fall ensures you have access to water all through winter.

Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment can build up in your home’s water heater over time, which may affect its output. Flushing the device clears out accumulated sediment and greatly boosts efficiency, which can save money on your utility bills. While some homeowners perform water heater flushes on their own, you can also schedule professional assistance if you’re not sure how to proceed. 

Your Dream Home Awaits

Here at Fiesta Homes, we’re proud to help residents of Las Cruces realize their dream of home ownership. Our factory direct ordering process is simple and straightforward, but we can also customize our floor plans to best meet your needs. Feel free to contact us today for more information or call 575-525-4680 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable representative. Don’t forget to ask about our free credit check!

Fortunately, there are lots of effective DIY methods you can utilize to keep your home in amazing shape from one season to the next. Here are a few helpful steps to consider.

Make Sure the Gutters Are Clean

Clean gutters ensure that water doesn’t accumulate on your roof, which can cause major damage over time. Pooling water can degrade the quality of shingles and may even contribute to roof leaks if the problem is ongoing. For the best results, clean your gutters once in the fall and once in the spring, while also performing spot checks throughout the year to ensure the gutter basin remains clear of debris.

Remove Snow from Your Roof

Along with gutter maintenance, being proactive about snow accumulation is also beneficial to the health of your roofing system. Melting snow can contribute to leaks, but it also puts pressure on the structure of your roof. This is especially true when it comes to accumulating ice, which can become quite heavy. To avoid serious issues, use a telescopic scraper to remove ice and snow immediately after it falls, which will keep your roof in great shape.

Weather-Seal Doors and Windows

Drafty windows and doors can be a real nuisance in the winter time. Along with decreasing comfort within your home, drafts can also raise your heating bill and derail your household budget. Fortunately, weather sealing windows and doors is easy and inexpensive, especially when you consider the cost-savings it affords. You may even be able to turn your thermostat down a notch when your home is protected from outside temperatures.

Apply Pipe Insulation

When the temperature drops below freezing, pipes exposed to frigid air can easily freeze. A frozen pipe prevents you from accessing water in your home, but it can also cause expensive damage should the pipe burst and allow water to leak out. In this case, insulating your pipes with special materials or heat tape will protect them during the winter months and spare you a huge headache.

 Here at Fiesta Homes, we know the pride that homeownership brings to people throughout Las Cruces. Along with providing helpful tips for the winter months, we can also help you find a suitable manufactured home for you and your family. And if you have questions about financing, our team is here to answer them. Please call 575-525-4680 to speak with a representative or contact us to learn more.