Fences serve a variety of purposes for homeowners, from providing privacy and security to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property. Selecting the right type of fence and maintaining it properly can significantly impact the functionality and appearance of your home. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of fences, their benefits, and essential maintenance tips to help you make the best choice for your home.
Types of Fences
1. Wood Fences
Wood fences are a popular choice due to their classic appearance and versatility. They can be customized to fit any style, from traditional picket fences to modern horizontal slats.
Pros:
Aesthetic appeal
Customizable design
Can be painted or stained to match your home
Cons:
Requires regular maintenance
Susceptible to rot, pests, and weather damage
2. Vinyl Fences
Vinyl fences are a low-maintenance alternative to wood. They are durable, weather-resistant, and come in various styles and colors.
Pros:
Low maintenance
Resistant to rot, pests, and weather damage
Easy to clean
Cons:
Higher upfront cost
Limited color options
3. Metal Fences
Metal fences, including aluminum, steel, and wrought iron, offer a sturdy and long-lasting option. They are ideal for security and can add an elegant touch to your property.
Pros:
Durable and long-lasting
Low maintenance
Provides excellent security
Cons:
Can be expensive
May require periodic painting to prevent rust (especially wrought iron)
4. Chain Link Fences
Chain link fences are a cost-effective option for those who prioritize functionality over aesthetics. They are commonly used for security and containment.
Pros:
Affordable
Durable and low maintenance
Provides clear visibility
Cons:
Limited privacy
Less visually appealing
5. Composite Fences
Composite fences are made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, offering the look of wood with the durability of vinyl.
Pros:
Low maintenance
Resistant to rot and pests
Eco-friendly options available
Cons:
Can be expensive
Limited color options
Choosing the Right Fence for Your Home
When selecting a fence, consider the following factors:
Purpose: Determine the primary function of the fence. Is it for privacy, security, aesthetic appeal, or containment of pets and children?
Budget: Assess your budget for both the initial installation and ongoing maintenance costs.
Style: Choose a fence style that complements your home’s architecture and landscaping.
Durability: Consider the climate in your area and choose a material that can withstand local weather conditions.
Maintenance: Evaluate how much time and effort you are willing to invest in maintaining the fence.
Fence Installation Tips
Check Local Regulations: Before installing a fence, check with your local municipality for any zoning laws, permits, or height restrictions.
Mark Property Lines: Ensure you know your exact property boundaries to avoid disputes with neighbors.
Plan the Layout: Use stakes and string to outline the fence’s layout and ensure it aligns with your plan.
Hire a Professional: For complex installations or large fences, consider hiring a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Fence Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your fence and keep it looking great. Here are some tips for maintaining different types of fences:
Wood Fence Maintenance
Seal and Stain: Apply a sealant or stain every 2-3 years to protect against moisture and UV damage.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for signs of rot, pest infestation, or loose boards, and repair as needed.
Clean Annually: Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to clean the fence and remove dirt and mildew.
Vinyl Fence Maintenance
Clean Regularly: Wash with soap and water to remove dirt and prevent staining.
Inspect for Cracks: Check for any cracks or damage and replace affected panels promptly.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use gentle cleaning agents to avoid damaging the vinyl surface.
Metal Fence Maintenance
Prevent Rust: Apply a rust-resistant primer and paint to wrought iron fences to prevent rust.
Clean with Water: Rinse with water to remove dirt and debris.
Tighten Bolts: Check and tighten any loose bolts or fasteners.
Chain Link Fence Maintenance
Clean Regularly: Use a hose to wash away dirt and debris.
Inspect for Rust: Apply a rust-resistant coating to prevent corrosion.
Trim Vegetation: Keep plants and vines trimmed back to prevent damage to the fence.
Composite Fence Maintenance
Clean Periodically: Wash with soap and water to remove dirt and prevent mold growth.
Inspect for Damage: Check for any signs of damage and repair or replace as needed.
Avoid High-Pressure Washing: Use gentle cleaning methods to avoid damaging the composite material.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fence for your home involves considering your needs, budget, and style preferences. Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential to ensure your fence remains functional and attractive for years to come. By following these tips and guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained fence that enhances your property’s value and appeal.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
In most parts of the US this time of year, there is a lot of groaning by kids who are heading back to school, and some parents as well, because they dread the busyness of the school being in session. Take the dread out by getting organized and staying organized so that it becomes a routine for you and your kids.
With sales and coupons abounding at every store this time of year, we usually end up with more school supplies than we need. Have a dedicated storage spot for everything for easy access when it’s time to replenish. Donating some of those extra supplies to the school or organization who help kids in need is a good thing, too.
If your school requires uniforms, go through old ones, and if they’re not worn or stained, take them to your school office so other students have a change of clothing in case of spills or accidents.
Getting ready for school begins the night before. Set a bedtime, get a good routine going, and stick to it. It can help reset your child’s body clock so that even when things get busy, they’ll be ready for sleep at their set time.
Even if they haven’t yet learned to tell time, get your child an alarm clock. Set the alarm and help them be responsible for getting themselves up.
Have all their school clothes for the week hanging on a wreath hanger on the back of their bedroom or closet door or folded on their dresser. This way, they can decide what to wear each day without staring at a closetful of clothes.
Let the kids pitch in with lunch prep. Have their lunchboxes, storage containers, plastic bags and drink containers all in one easily-accessed spot in a kitchen cabinet. Good Housekeeping has a video with some great tips for packing up lunches.
Whether you have a mudroom or not, place some baskets or totes near the door for shoes, bookbags and sports bags. It certainly helps with “I can’t find…” when it’s time to get them out the door.
After-school routines can vary, with extracurricular activities, sports, and lessons. Keep a white board in a prominent place and have everyone’s schedule listed by days of the week. Have the kids go over their schedule the night before so they’ll be prepared for their activities the next day.
Sometimes children come home from school and can’t wait till dinner and want to eat a full meal. Have some snack bags of sliced fruit or veggies keeping cold in the fridge. Add some fruit dip or ranch, and they’ll have a yummy snack that will tide them over until meal time.
Getting in a routine doesn’t mean there won’t be mishaps or struggles or lost socks. Go with the flow and remind the kids of the importance of putting things in their place or having things ready to go. When they see you getting things ready beforehand, they’ll pick up your habits, get used to it, and it will soon be second nature.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
New Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association data shows market continues to stabilize for homebuyers as inventory increases for seventh month in a row.
State of the Market
July’s interest rate was recorded at 6.6%, down from 6.7% in June.
In ORRA’s new survey of Orlando REALTORS, 52% of respondents cited interest rates as the top challenge for buyers, causing some buyers to wait out purchasing homes right now or look at lower price points.
The median home price for July was recorded at $390,000, down from $395,000 in June. June was the highest monthly median home price on record in the Orlando area.
Home prices were cited as the second biggest issue facing buyers in ORRA’s new survey.
Inventory for July was recorded at 11,158, up 3.4% from June when inventory was recorded at 10,796. This is the seventh month in a row inventory has risen. The last time inventory was this high was November 2015.
Inventory in July 2024 was 95.1% higher than in July 2023.
Overall sales rose 2.0% from June to July. There were 2,652 sales in July, up from 2,601 sales in June.
Pending sales rose by 1.5%, with 3,940 in June and 3,999 in July.
New listings fell 1.8% from June to July, with 4,067 new homes on the market in July, compared to 4,143 in June.
Homes spent an average of 55 days on the market (DOM) in July – up from 54 in June. This is 41.0% higher than July 2023 when homes spent an average of 39 days on the market.
72% of survey respondents reported that most homes are moving from sale to pending in 21+ days, up significantly from last year.
“July represented another strong month in the housing market as many families worked to squeeze in their moves before the start of the new school year. We continued to see an increase in inventory and sales as the Orlando housing market continues to stabilize,” said Rose Kemp, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association President. “Interest rates are still holding steady in the mid-upper 6.0% range. The current market conditions offer more options for buyers along with new potential negotiating opportunities. Realtors are key to the success of a buyer and seller transaction.”
Market Snapshot
Interest rates fell from 6.7% in June to 6.6% in July.
Pending sales rose 1.5%, with 3,940 in June and 3,999 in July.
25 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 0.9% of all home sales in July. This is the same number of distressed homes that sold in June.
Inventory
Orlando area inventory rose 3.4% from June to July. Inventory in June was 10,796, and inventory in July was 11,158.
The supply of homes rose to 4.21 months in July, up 1.4% from 4.15 months in June. A balanced market is six months of supply.
The number of new listings decreased from June to July by 1.8% – from 4,143 homes to 4,067 homes.
You can find ORRA’s full State of the Market Report for May here.
This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association and the Stellar Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor StellarMLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the association or by StellarMLS does not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Due to late closings, an adjustment is necessary to record those closings posted after our reporting date.
ORRA REALTOR® sales represent sales involving Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association members, who are primarily – but not exclusively – located in Orange and Seminole counties. Note that statistics released each month may be revised in the future as new data is received.
Orlando MSA numbers reflect sales of homes located in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Lake counties by members of any REALTOR® association, not just members of ORRA.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
Almost every homeowner has some upgrades or small projects on their to-do list, from installing new gutters to new landscaping. What they aren’t always thinking is if the next small project will add value to their home. Not every home improvement increases the value of a property, whether they’re a necessity or not.
Roofing While a new roof looks great, it is considered a maintenance issue, so unless your roof needs replacing, or you have damaged shingles, this job rarely adds value. On the other hand, depending on where you live, a metal roof can add some value to your home, lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums, and may save on the electric bill.
Landscaping Keeping your yard trim and weed-free doesn’t decrease or increase your home’s value, and some landscaping certainly helps if you’re trying to sell. Adding a small fish pond with waterfall, however, isn’t necessarily going to add to add value.
Electric/Plumbing In older homes, an upgrade here is something that’s necessary, and even if you used top-of-the-line products and the most expensive plumbers and electricians in the area, it won’t add value.
Swimming Pool Putting in a pool is simply a personal choice–you have it done because you want to enjoy some refreshment and relaxation on a hot day. Rarely does an added pool or spa put money in your pocket if you sell.
High-End Upgrades In order for upgrades to add resale value, they must be consistent. Don’t add imported tile to one bathroom, and then leave vinyl and Formica in the half bath.
HVAC A new A/C unit or heating system is another maintenance item, and though someone looking for a home may find some relief in knowing that there’s a brand-new unit attached to the home, they’re not going to pay more for it because it’s new.
Carpet If you’re thinking about installing new carpet to prep your house for the market, talk to your RealtorⓇ. Going to the expense of new carpeting may be less desirable to house-hunters in your area. If you want to make that money back, then consider another type of flooring for your house.
These items don’t necessarily mean that you shouldn’t have them done, but it does mean that you likely won’t get the extra money they cost back in case you sell your home. What it will help is the home sale itself–someone on the search for a new house will be more likely to purchase a home that has a new roof or new flooring. Nolo.com has some excellent information on what will add value to your home, as well as some other home improvement tips. When in doubt, do some research, and give your RealtorⓇ a call, as they know exactly what you need to do to get the most out of your house.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
The walls of your home are begging for a new paint job, or you simply want to change your decor colors, but money is not flowing freely enough to hire a painter. Painting is one DIY project that is cost-effective and easy enough to make it look as if you hired a crew to do the work. Go over these tips before you get started:
Flat or matte paint is great for hiding flaws, and best used in low-traffic rooms, as it is not as easy to clean as glossy paint. Use latex paint for high-traffic walls, and oil paint for wood trim. Leave windows open when painting with oil paint because the odor is quite strong, and it takes longer to dry.
When picking colors, do not be afraid to go bold, unless you plan to sell soon, then neutrals are your best choice.
Purchase paint samples and apply each color in a 2’x2’ area on the wall you are planning to paint. Once it is dry, you will get a better feel for the color in the different lights, and whether you can live with it or not.
The ceiling cannot be forgotten in your new design! Change the feel of the room’s height by going a shade darker (for a lower ceiling feel) or go a shade lighter or use a lighter color to give the illusion of a higher ceiling.
Use this handy paint calculator to determine how much paint you will need. Other supplies necessary for a professional look are painter’s tape, drop cloths, putty, a putty knife, caulking, and any tools you may need for removing hardware from any doors or walls.
Clean your walls and sand if necessary, then use a vacuum to make sure all the dust is gone.
Covering a dark color, stains on the walls, old paneling, or new sheetrock may require a coat of primer prior to painting. Tint the primer with a little of your new wall color before applying.
Before you start on the walls, do the little stuff first: paint in corners and close to the ceiling with a good brush, working your way down to catch drips.
Paint the walls in 3’-4’ sections in an overlapping W-pattern, applying paint until you need to reload the roller. When you are near the ceiling and corners, get as close as possible using what is left on the roller where you previously already cut in. This gives a smooth appearance to the finish.
Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours and avoid hanging anything on the walls for a few days. Hopefully, you should not have to do any cleaning until the paint has cured, usually two weeks to thirty days.
Giving your home a facelift with paint is easy and rewarding if done correctly. Feeling adventurous? Try painting a pattern on your wall. It may take more time, but the dramatic effect it makes in the room makes the wall a focal point, and one you can take pride in since you created it!
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
There are several measures everyone can take to protect their credit.
Sign up for the free credit monitoring Equifax offers, but don’t let that make you unaware of your credit reports. Check them as often as possible, and dispute errors.
Setting up a fraud alert with Equifax, as well as TransUnion and Experian, is another important step.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
Mold is a common household issue that can cause significant health problems and structural damage if left unchecked. As a homeowner, understanding how to prevent, identify, and remediate mold is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy living environment. Here are some essential tips and information to help you tackle mold in your home.
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, humid environments. It can grow on a variety of surfaces, including walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. Mold reproduces by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can spread and grow into new mold colonies if they land on a suitable surface.
Health Risks Associated with Mold
Exposure to mold can cause a range of health issues, particularly for individuals with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include:
Respiratory problems (coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath)
Nasal and sinus congestion
Eye, nose, and throat irritation
Skin rashes
Headaches and fatigue
Signs of Mold Growth
Identifying mold early can help prevent more extensive infestations. Look out for the following signs:
Musty, damp odors
Visible mold growth (black, green, or white patches) on walls, ceilings, or floors
Water stains or discoloration on surfaces
Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper
Persistent dampness or condensation
Preventing Mold Growth
Prevention is the best way to deal with mold. Here are some tips to help keep your home mold-free:
Control Humidity Levels: Keep indoor humidity levels below 60% by using dehumidifiers, air conditioners, or ventilation fans, especially in damp areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Fix Leaks Promptly: Repair any leaks in roofs, walls, or plumbing as soon as possible to prevent moisture buildup.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms to reduce humidity and improve air circulation.
Clean and Dry Wet Areas: Promptly clean and dry any areas that become wet or damp, such as after a spill, flood, or heavy rain.
Use Mold-Resistant Products: When renovating, consider using mold-resistant drywall, paint, and insulation to reduce the risk of mold growth.
Remediating Mold
If you discover mold in your home, it’s important to address it promptly. Here’s how:
Identify and Eliminate Moisture Sources: Determine the source of moisture and address it to prevent further mold growth.
Protect Yourself: Wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask, to avoid exposure to mold spores.
Remove Affected Materials: Remove and dispose of any porous materials (like drywall, insulation, or carpeting) that are heavily contaminated with mold.
Clean and Disinfect: Clean non-porous surfaces with a mixture of water and detergent, then disinfect with a solution of bleach and water (1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water).
Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the cleaned areas are thoroughly dried to prevent mold from returning.
When to Call a Professional
For extensive mold infestations or if you’re unsure how to handle the situation, it’s best to call a professional mold remediation specialist. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively remove mold and prevent it from returning.
Mold is a serious issue that requires prompt attention to protect your health and home. By understanding the causes of mold, taking preventative measures, and knowing how to remediate it, you can keep your home safe and mold-free. Stay vigilant and address any signs of mold promptly to ensure a healthy living environment.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
Getting your home ready to sell requires thorough cleaning and decluttering, but once your belongings are packed and ready to move for the new owners to move in, you may see things that were hidden by furniture and other items. While most contracts state that the home should be “broom clean” at the time of closing, some extra cleaning will be necessary.
Once the walls of every room are bare, use a vacuum, flat duster, or sweep mop to go over all of the walls, permanent fixtures, and ceilings. Wipe the walls and ceilings down with mild cleaner and water, and a flat mop is a great tool to make this work go quickly and efficiently.
Vacuum all drawers and cabinet interiors, then wipe down with a mild cleaner and allow to dry before closing.
Ceiling fans and light fixtures should be turned off, dusted, and wiped down thoroughly.
Clean and disinfect bathrooms and kitchens from top to bottom.
Move appliances to clean beneath and behind them, and ensure interior surfaces are completely clean.
Have your agent reach out to the buyer’s representative to ask the buyer if they would like for you to leave any extra paint, tile or flooring, vinyl siding, etc., especially if they are not planning on a remodel. If so, stack them neatly in the garage or storage area.
All outdoor areas should be free of debris, do not leave garbage behind, and mow the lawn shortly before closing.
The best time to vacuum carpets and clean hard flooring is after everything is out of the home.
At best, the house should be sparkling clean upon the final walk-through. Sometimes, a dirty home can hold up closing, and that is never a good thing. If you simply do not have time to do a thorough cleaning before moving out, hire a professional team to do the dirty work for you.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
As the summer sun blazes down, your pool becomes the ultimate backyard oasis, providing a refreshing escape from the heat. However, to keep your pool in top condition throughout the season, regular maintenance is crucial. Proper pool care ensures that the water stays clean, clear, and safe for swimming. Here are some essential tips for maintaining your pool during the summer months.
1. Regular Skimming and Cleaning
Debris like leaves, insects, and dirt can quickly accumulate in your pool, especially during summer. Skim the surface of the pool daily to remove floating debris. Use a pool net or skimmer to keep the water clean. Additionally, clean the pool walls and floor at least once a week with a pool brush and vacuum to prevent algae buildup.
2. Check and Maintain Chemical Levels
Balancing your pool’s chemical levels is vital for keeping the water safe and clear. Test the water at least twice a week using a pool test kit. Ensure the pH level is between 7.2 and 7.8, and the chlorine level is between 1 and 3 ppm (parts per million). Adjust the chemicals as needed to maintain these levels. Don’t forget to shock your pool weekly to eliminate bacteria and contaminants.
3. Monitor the Water Level
With the heat and increased usage, your pool’s water level may fluctuate. Ensure the water level remains at the midpoint of the pool skimmer. Too low, and the pump may run dry and get damaged; too high, and the skimmer won’t work efficiently. Top off the water as needed and monitor for any leaks.
4. Clean the Pool Filter
Your pool filter plays a crucial role in keeping the water clean by trapping dirt and debris. Clean the filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For sand and DE filters, backwash the filter to remove accumulated debris. For cartridge filters, remove and rinse the cartridge with a hose. Clean filters ensure optimal water circulation and cleanliness.
5. Maintain the Pool Pump
The pool pump is essential for circulating the water and distributing chemicals evenly. Check the pump regularly to ensure it’s working correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and inspect for leaks. Clean out the pump basket and ensure there are no blockages. A well-maintained pump ensures efficient water circulation and filtration.
6. Brush and Vacuum the Pool
Even with regular skimming, some dirt and algae can settle on the pool’s walls and floor. Brush the pool walls and floor at least once a week to remove any algae buildup. Use a pool vacuum to clean the bottom of the pool and remove any settled debris. This helps keep the pool water clear and prevents algae growth.
7. Check and Adjust Water Temperature
The summer heat can raise your pool’s water temperature, making it less refreshing and potentially promoting algae growth. Use a pool thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust it if necessary. Consider using a pool cover to keep the water cool when not in use or running the pool pump during the cooler parts of the day.
8. Inspect and Maintain Pool Equipment
Regularly inspect all pool equipment, including ladders, diving boards, and slides, to ensure they are in good condition and safe to use. Tighten any loose bolts and replace any damaged parts. Keeping your pool equipment well-maintained ensures a safe swimming environment.
9. Keep an Eye on the Weather
Summer storms can bring heavy rains and winds, which can introduce debris and contaminants into your pool. After a storm, clean the pool thoroughly and check the chemical levels. Adjust as needed to ensure the water remains balanced and safe for swimming.
10. Schedule Professional Inspections
Consider scheduling regular professional inspections and maintenance for your pool. A pool maintenance professional can provide expert care, identify potential issues early, and ensure your pool stays in top condition throughout the summer.
Conclusion
Proper pool maintenance during the summer is essential for ensuring a clean, safe, and enjoyable swimming environment. By following these tips, you can keep your pool in excellent condition and make the most of your summer days by the water. Happy swimming!
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.
New Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association data shows record median home price for second time this year.
State of the Market
The median home price for June was recorded at $395,000, up from $385,000 in May. This is the highest monthly median home price on record in the Orlando area. This is the second time in 2024 the record has been broken.
Inventory for June was recorded at 10,796, up 5.0% from May when inventory was recorded at 10,282. This is the sixth month in a row inventory has risen. The last time inventory was this high was November 2015.
Overall sales fell 10.6% from May to June. There were 2,601 sales in June, down from 2,909 sales in May. This breaks a four-month streak of rising sales.
June’s interest rate was recorded at 6.7%, up from 6.6% in May.
Pending sales fell by 8.3%, with 4,298 in May and 3,940 in June.
New listings fell 8.4% from May to June, with 4,143 new homes on the market in June, compared to 4,521 in May.
Homes spent an average of 54 days on the market (DOM) in June – the same as in May and April.
“Demand in the Orlando market is holding strong this summer, as evidenced by yet another record-breaking median home price in June,” said Rose Kemp, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association President. “The good news for buyers is that we are continuing to see inventory rise. More inventory gives buyers more options and more power to negotiate with the seller in the home-buying process.”
Market Snapshot
Interest rates rose from 6.6% in May to 6.7% in June.
Pending sales fell 8.3%, with 4,298 in May and 3,940 in June.
25 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 1.0% of all home sales in June. That represents a 47.1% increase from May when 17 distressed homes sold.
Inventory
Orlando area inventory increased 5.0% from May to June. Inventory in May was 10,282, and inventory in June was 10,796.
The supply of homes rose to 4.15 months in June, up 17.4% from 3.53 months in May. A balanced market is six months of supply.
The number of new listings decreased from May to June by 8.4% – from 4,521 homes to 4,143 homes.
You can find ORRA’s full State of the Market Report for May here.
This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association and the Stellar Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor StellarMLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the association or by StellarMLS does not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Due to late closings, an adjustment is necessary to record those closings posted after our reporting date.
ORRA REALTOR® sales represent sales involving Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association members, who are primarily – but not exclusively – located in Orange and Seminole counties. Note that statistics released each month may be revised in the future as new data is received.
Orlando MSA numbers reflect sales of homes located in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Lake counties by members of any REALTOR® association, not just members of ORRA.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.