Should you rent or buy?

By Richie Vraux

Should I rent or should I buy? There are many things to consider whether you rent or buy today.

Richie Vraux is a Real Estate
Broker/Realtor with Pine Tree
Realty of Maine in Windham.
SUBMITTED PHOT

The world has so many uncertainties so consider what will work best for you and your family.

Consider the 5-year plan: If you move around or travel a lot you might find renting to be a better option while those wanting to create roots in a single location will find buying to be a better choice. It is really a decision you want to choose wisely.

Consider the time and money needed to maintain a home: If you rent and something breaks or something doesn’t work effectively, you can call your landlord to fix it.

But when you buy a home, you will be the one keeping up the maintenance of your home. It is always good to set aside money for a rainy-day fund to have extra money when those issues occur, and yes, they always do.

Make sure you carefully weigh in on all the factors of renting versus owning.

Buying a home is a big commitment but can have many benefits. If you enter into a 30-year mortgage agreement, you have several tax benefits of buying.

Renting really has no tax benefits unless you work from home or similar work-related benefits.

Yes, you do have property taxes that need to be paid every year and don’t forget insurance to cover any loss you may have, but I believe owning has many more benefits than renting.

Buying a home is typically best if you have a stable job and plan on remaining in your home for several years. Renting a home provided more flexibility. However, it can also result in higher costs as housing costs continue to rise.

This is because rentals are usually short term and have a12 month window, or longer depending on yours or the landlord’s situation. But at the end of your lease, there is no guarantee the rents may increase. It’s always a crap shoot. There is no current cap on landlords’ fees, so you just never know.

On the other hand, unless you are in a variable rate mortgage or have a mortgage rate less than 15 or 30 years, it will stay the same until it is paid off. You will not have to pay taxes if you are renting, that is up to the landlord.

The cons of renting are your monthly housing costs are not stable year to year. You don’t get to build equity with each rental payment. The landlord gets all the rental benefits here. In the rental market you do not have control whether the landlord sells the property. At that point you are under the gun to find a suitable rental within a short period of time. Then you want to stay in the same school district for your children.

Renting is a good idea when you move out of mom and dad’s home, and you are off to college, or your job makes you move from place to place.

Purchasing a home is the American Dream people always want, but some people don’t want commitments and are certainly satisfied renting. Paying off a mortgage over 30 years is usually cheaper than renting but may not be the best choice for everyone.

Many factors in different markets affect affordability, making it difficult to determine which option will work best for you. Deciding to purchase a home is a personal choice that only you can answer.

If you need advice about choosing which way you should go, feel free to contact me. Richie Vraux is a Real Estate Broker/Realtor with Pine Tree Realty of Maine, 76 Tandberg Trail, Windham. Call him at 207-317-1297 or reach him by email at richardjvraux@gmail.com <

Homeowner’s Guide to Fall Home Maintenance

Compiled by Jonathan Priest

Fall brings colorful leaves and cooler temperatures, but seasonal home care should also be on the calendar because winter has no mercy on homes unprepared for its surprises.

Roof and Exterior

A visual inspection of a home, from the chimney to the foundation, can help reveal vulnerabilities that lead to trouble when wind, freezing temperatures, snow or winter rains rule. Homeowners can use a drone or binoculars to look for debris, which will need to be cleaned up, and missing or loose shingles, which should be fixed or replaced before they lead to leaks. Overhanging tree limbs should be trimmed, so they can’t come down, potentially puncturing the roof and causing leaks, water damage and mold.

Fall and winter are also prime time for rodents to come indoors for warmth; seal up even the smallest holes and gaps in the foundation, attic or crawl spaces. Firewood should not be stored against the house because it can cause a beetle and/or termite infestation.

Gutters

To keep gutters running well, check them monthly for twigs, leaves and other debris. Plan bigger cleanings — including running water down all the downspouts — both before autumn leaves fall and again after trees are bare, to be sure fall and winter rain and snowmelt can flow down and away from the house — instead of into the walls, which can cause rot and mold and invite insects.

Clogged gutters — along with poorly ventilated roofs and under-insulated attics — are also a common culprit for damaging ice dams. Ice dams form when rooftop snow melts and refreezes, building up thick layers of ice that eventually push into joints and cracks in the roof and cause leaks.

Landscaping

Some experts note that grass will fare better if it is fertilized after the hottest days of summer are over, when the fertilizer can encourage blade growth and strengthen the root system for winter. Rake off all leaves and give the lawn a final mowing once it stops growing. (A local garden center can guide you on fertilizer formulas suited to your climate and lawn.)

Fall is also a good time to cut dead branches off trees, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, but pruning for shape and size should wait for late winter or early spring.

Outdoor furniture

Umbrellas and furniture that could be blown over can be brought inside or stacked and weighted down, to reduce the risk of damage. Grills should be moved indoors and outdoor appliances, such as mini fridges, should be unplugged.

Doors, windows and other drafty spots

To keep houses warm without sending heating bills through the roof, and to save energy, the federal Environmental Protection Agency recommends sealing spots where cold air can sneak in, focusing on the attic, foundation and around windows and doors. Caulking, weather stripping and door draft guards can be inexpensive DIY fixes.

For single-pane windows, adding plastic film or storm windows reduces heat escape and cold penetration. Replacing them with insulating double-paned windows is a more expensive option.

Heating

A good time for an annual HVAC system check — to look for wear in parts like the blower motor — is before having to turn on the heat, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

Also, check with local utilities to see if they offer free energy audits or rebates for energy-efficient appliances, including furnaces. It is also good practice to change furnace filters every 60 to 90 days.

Thermostat

Using a programmable thermostat or adjusting a manual thermostat before leaving the house or going to bed, can cut the heating bill by as much as 30 percent while still keeping a home cozy, according to the EPA. Consumers can find Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats, which can be managed remotely via smart phone, for about $100 to $300.

Basement

Along with cleaning gutters, making sure a basement is ready for winter means checking the foundation for cracks, which freezing water can widen and make for a very expensive repair. Sump pumps need to be checked for wear.

The big payoff is savings on repairs — and peace of mind.

This article was brought to you courtesy of Farmers Insurance agent, Jonathan Priest, with an office at 57 Tandberg Trail, Suite 7, Windham and StaySafe.org. Call him at 207-893-8184 or send him an email at jpriest1@farmersagent.com <

Why does it seem like everyone is moving to Maine?

By Carrie Colby

Maine’s rising popularity is a fascinating trend influenced by several factors that resonate with a diverse range of people. Here are some key reasons why more folks are calling this beautiful state home:

1. The Weather

Maine’s climate presents a unique blend of experiences. While winters can be brutally cold, the summers are a highlight, offering mild temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities without the oppressive heat found elsewhere. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports in the warmer months, making the most of the state’s stunning natural landscapes.

2. Air Quality and Climate Change

With climate change impacting many regions, Maine has emerged as an appealing refuge. Its relatively stable weather, lower incidence of natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires, and overall good air quality attract those looking for a safer, more sustainable environment.

3. Quality of Life and Peace of Mind

Safety is a major draw for many. Maine consistently ranks as one of the safest states in the U.S., making it an ideal place for families. The sense of community is strong, and many residents appreciate the slower pace of life. This environment fosters peace of mind, where people feel comfortable letting their kids play outside and engaging with neighbors.

4. Remote Work Opportunities

The pandemic accelerated the trend of remote work, allowing many individuals and families to relocate without the constraints of proximity to their offices. Maine’s serene environment and access to nature have proven irresistible for those looking to enhance their work-life balance.

5. Outdoor Recreation

Maine is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking the Appalachian Trail to kayaking in its many lakes and rivers, and even skiing in winter, the state offers abundant recreational opportunities that appeal to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

6. Community and Culture

Maine boasts a rich cultural heritage, with vibrant arts, food, and local traditions. The state’s renowned seafood, particularly its lobsters, is a culinary draw, and many towns host festivals that celebrate local culture and community spirit.

7. Affordable Living

Compared to many urban centers, Maine offers relatively affordable housing options. This affordability can be especially attractive to those moving from high-cost areas, allowing for a higher quality of life without breaking the bank.

In summary, Maine’s combination of stunning landscapes, a strong sense of community, safety, and growing remote work opportunities makes it an appealing choice for many people looking to relocate. Whether seeking a peaceful lifestyle, better air quality, or simply a place to enjoy the outdoors, Maine is increasingly becoming a top destination.

Carrie Colby is a Broker with Allied Real Estate, 909 Roosevelt Trail in Windham. She can be reached at 207-232-5497. <

Is a condo right for you?

By Nicole Foster, Broker/ REALTOR

A growing segment of the residential single-family real estate market is struggling to keep pace with the strong demand from buyers of all ages who are seeking the condo living experience.

A condominium, often referred to as a "condo" for brevity, is a unique type of residential property that is privately owned but located within a larger complex or community. Condos can take various forms: they might be situated within a multi-story building, share walls with neighboring units, or even be standalone structures often termed “house-a-minimum” allowing for different living experiences, catering to a range of lifestyles and preferences depending on its location.

Condos are particularly appealing to individuals seeking to simplify their lives, such as those looking to downsize after a larger family home or first-time buyers eager to transition from renting to owning. Many find that condos provide an excellent opportunity to start building equity, as they are generally more affordable than traditional single-family homes. This affordability makes them an attractive starter home option for many, enabling buyers to invest in real estate for less money.

Living in a condominium typically entails fewer responsibilities compared to homeownership, fostering a more relaxed lifestyle with increased leisure time. This can be especially beneficial for those who wish to spend less time on maintenance and upkeep and more time enjoying their surroundings and pursuing personal interests.

One of the primary distinctions between owning a single-family home and a condominium lies in the ownership structure. When purchasing a single-family home, the buyer acquires both the dwelling and the land it sits on. In contrast, when you buy a condo, you own your individual unit but share ownership interest of the land and communal areas with all the other residents within the complex. This shared ownership model often results in a collaborative living environment.

In terms of maintenance responsibilities, condo owners enjoy a significant advantage. In a single-family home, the homeowner is responsible for all aspects of property upkeep, including repairs, landscaping, and snow removal. However, in a condominium, many of these tasks are managed by the homeowners’ association (HOA) or a property management company. This arrangement can be particularly appealing to individuals who wish to own real estate without the burden of owning and maintaining tools and equipment, such as lawnmowers or snow blowers.

The costs associated with condo living typically include monthly fees that contribute to the overall maintenance of the community. These fees can range significantly, often falling between $100 and $700 or more, depending on the amenities and services provided. Most frequently, these fees are collected on a monthly basis, although they can also be charged quarterly or annually. For complexes with upscale amenities—such as swimming pools, fitness centers, or concierge services—the fees may be higher. It’s essential for prospective buyers to inquire about what these fees cover and how frequently they are collected. Additionally, owners may be subject to one-time assessments for upcoming repairs or improvements within the complex, which can also impact their financial obligations. Owners usually have options regarding payment for these assessments, whether in a lump sum or through installment plans.

Living in a condo also means embracing a sense of community, which comes with adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by the homeowners’ association. These guidelines can be quite comprehensive, covering a range of topics such as parking restrictions, quiet hours, clothes lines, pet policies, guidelines for outdoor grilling, and regulations regarding the renting out of units—an important factor that can influence resale value. It is crucial for potential buyers to thoroughly review all governing documents to fully understand their restrictions and responsibilities as a condo owner.

Before purchasing a condo, it is critically important to assess the overall financial health of the condominium community. Prospective buyers should request access to the most recent financial statements and accounting records to ensure the community is well-managed and financially stable.

If you are contemplating purchasing a condo as your next home, be sure to have a discussion with your lender. The financing for a condominium can involve additional considerations and requirements compared to a traditional home purchase and understanding these aspects will help determine if your loan would be suitable for a condo.

Nicole Foster is a real estate Broker with nineteen years of experience and a Windham parent. Follow on Insta @207nicolefoster or Facebook facebook.com/sellingmaine <

Interior Design – The Balance between Scientific Principles and Artistic Creativity

By Theresa Bouchard

Yes, interior design is both a science and an art form. There are many considerations when designing a home that relates to science principles such as psychology, color theory, geometry, scale, and sustainability. Science and artistic creativity are combined to create beautiful, aesthetically appealing, sustainable spaces to create that emotional connection between individuals and their homes.

Our homes are our safe place, our sanctuary. Although vacations, quick trips, and/or business travel are needed throughout our lives, most are ready to get back to the comforts of their homes, their beds, and their surroundings. When designing one’s haven, people look for practical and comfortable rooms that serve them ergonomically and functionally. Utilizing a space that best serves your and your family’s needs is best for your overall well-being.

Psychologically speaking, living in a visually appealing environment impacts one’s behavior positively. Creating comfort in a space with a specific color scheme and/or furniture layout can help a person’s mood and overall well-being. Designers often interview their clients to understand what colors they like, what type of furnishings are appealing to them and their overall lifestyle so designers can deliver a space that is aesthetically pleasing, functional and creates an emotional connection. Isn’t this what we strive for in our homes? I know I do!

Science principles and artistic creativity are intertwined when cultivating spaces within a home. When selecting color for a room, you want to be sure it correlates with the likes of the person(s) and their lifestyle. Blues and greens are calming while reds and oranges are bold and energetic. Incorporating other material elements into a room that complement the colors can tone down a bold red or ramp up tones of blue to create balance. Organic materials such as rattan, leather, wood, plants and different textures are a big part of creating a specific look for a space. Some individuals have eclectic tastes which encompass various styles of décor. An eclectic style creates uniqueness within the home and makes it your own.

Lighting is an important element in a room. Light interacts with different materials and colors within a space. Cool lighting vs. warm lighting is a personal preference but knowing how the room will be utilized will help determine the type of lighting (cool, warm, wattage, etc.). Selecting different shapes and materials of lighting fixtures can change the look of a room and should complement other elements within the room. Therefore, light tone and selecting lighting fixtures are important to a room from a scientific perspective and artistic imagination.

The scale of a room is examined when planning the layout of furnishings along with additional décor. Measuring space and furnishings is important to ensure pieces fit in a room without overwhelming or getting lost in a space. Having appropriate measurements allows designers to layout a room that creates space, flow and functionality without compromising comfort.

TS Staging and Design, a professional home staging and interior design company based in Windham, Maine, uses their creative talents while applying scientific measures to curate beauty, functionality, practicality, comfort and safe spaces for their clients. At TS Staging and Design, we tell a story within a room. A flow and beauty that attracts the eye and creates an emotional connection for all who see it.

Let TS Staging and Design help you tell a story. Whether preparing your home to sell or wanting to refresh a space or two, we will deliver beautiful and inviting designs to attract potential buyers or make you fall in love with your home again!

You can contact TS Staging and Design at 207.400.9393, via email at tsstaginganddesign@gmail.com or visit our website at www.tsstagingandesign.com for further information. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram! Follow us to see our weekly transformations!

Stay tuned for the grand opening of TS Staging and Design’s new warehouse located on Roosevelt Trail in Windham, Maine! More details to follow!

Happy Fall!

Theresa Bouchard is the owner and designer of TS Staging and Design. If you would like more information regarding staging services, please contact TS Staging and Design at 207-400-9393 or check us out on Facebook, Instagram or our website at www.tsstaginganddesign.com. We are an award-winning professional home staging company that provides superior customer service and beautiful designs that attract buyers to your home.

Real Estate: Too hot to handle

By Tricia Zwirner

Space heaters and wood stoves are great for warming up chilly rooms, but they should be operated with a measure of caution. According to a 2022 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) report that gathered data from 2016 to 2020, space heaters, whether portable or stationary, account for 33 percent of home heating fires. In addition, 88 percent of home heating fire civilian deaths involve space heaters. They also contribute to 80 percent of fire related injuries and 55 percent of home fire related property damage.

Wood stoves are a more efficient heat source than traditional fireplaces, and many units can keep more than one room warm. To help keep wood stoves operating safely, consider the following tips:

• Before buying a stove, check with your local fire department to get local ordinances on solid fuel burning appliances.

• Ensure that the unit has been tested and is listed with a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

• Follow the specific clearance requirements outlined by the Maine Office of State Fire Marshal. Maintain proper distances between the wood stove and combustible materials, per the manufacturer and local regulations.

• If there are no manufacturer's instructions or a label on the unit, the NFPA suggests clearances should be 36 inches away from any combustible item, such as curtains or flooring.

• Regularly clean and inspect your chimney to reduce the risk of chimney fires. It's recommended to have a professional chimney sweep service to perform annual inspections and cleanings. Burn only seasoned hardwood or wood pellets in the stove, according to the manufacturer's directions.

• Wait until the ashes have cooled before removing them then transfer ashes in a covered metal container to an outside location 10 feet or more away from the home and douse them with water.

Radiant space heaters warm whatever is directly in front of them, while convection heaters can help make an entire room feel more comfortable. To use them safely, consider the following tips:

• Choose electric space heaters that are certified by recognized testing laboratories, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or CSA (Canadian Standards Association). Look for models with built-in safety features like tip-over protection & overheat shut-off switches

• Regularly inspect the electric space heater for any signs of damage or wear and KEEP THEM free of dust or debris that can accumulate and potentially cause overheating.

• Keep children and pets away from the heater to help avoid contact burns.

• Place the unit on a level surface at least three (3) feet from combustible materials such as bedding, curtains and furniture.

• Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets. Avoid using extension cords or power strips, as they can overheat and pose fire hazards. Never use a space heater to dry clothing.

• Never leave an electric space heater unattended. Turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Keep children and pets away from the heater to prevent accidental contact.

A kerosene space heater can warm a large area within your home. Some communities restrict their use so always check with the local authorities before purchasing or operating a unit. To operate safely, consider the following tips:

• Space heaters should be specifically designed for indoor use. They should be certified by a recognized testing laboratory, such as UL or CSA, and have safety features like an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS).

• Only use propane space heaters in well-ventilated areas. These heaters produce carbon monoxide, so ensure that there is proper airflow to prevent the buildup of this toxic gas. Never use propane space heaters indoors without proper ventilation.

• Keep children and pets away from the heater to help avoid contact burns. Never leave it unattended, especially overnight or while sleeping. Turn off the heater when leaving the room or going to sleep. Monitor the heater and ensure that it is functioning properly.

• Use only the approved fuel — clear 1-K grade kerosene, never gasoline.

• Do not refill a heater until the unit is cool and refill unit it outdoors.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safely handling and storing propane fuel. Store propane cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated area and away from ignition sources or heat.

Whether electric or wood, be sure to check that all smoke detectors are in working order with fresh batteries. It’s also advisable to install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and ensure they are in working order. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on for installation and testing for both.

Tricia Zwirner is a State Farm agent celebrating her 21st year in Windham. She and her team would love to hear from you and can be reached via phone and text at 207-892-2864 or via email at tricia@TRICIAZWIRNER.com.

Brace yourself, bad contractor season has been extended

By Warren O’Shea

It used to be that “bad contractor season” started sometime after our beloved black fly and mud season, or at least that’s when the local news channels would tend to run their stories. The stories may have been popular during this time of year due to many Mainers starting to think of their projects, and clicks equals money. The recent story of a disabled woman in York County ripped off by a contractor lies outside of this scheduled norm. Have the media outlets decided it was hot enough to now put it in their agenda cycle? Did the failed Contractor Licensing bill LD1929 stir the pot enough, or are there just that many more contractors ripping people off?

The king of rhetorical questions says yes, all have some validity. It can be a challenge to get the news to run a story as they do not want to expose themselves to liability. They likely won’t run a story if the homeowner and contractor do not have a contract, and they may not run a story unless the contractor violated Maine state law. In the case of the York County woman, the contractor asked for a deposit of 50 percent of the total project cost up front, where State law sets the maximum request of no more than 1/3 of the total project cost.

According to the Office of the Maine Attorney General, since 2018 the agency has received nearly 4,000 complaints related to contractor fraud with a total of $12 million in losses. I personally know of one contractor who continues to advertise his services across multiple local social media platforms and community groups who has 15 complaints with the Better Business Bureau, 7 of which have been in the past 12 months. There are currently 24 complaints to the local police department, and it doesn’t help that law enforcement frequently lists these types of complaints as a civil matter rather than criminal, leaving the responsibility to the homeowner to seek restitution, usually in court.

From the Office of the Maine Attorney General’s page on home construction and repair:

“While there are a great many competent, ethical home contractors in Maine, it is up to you, the consumer, to find one. Home contractors are not licensed or regulated by the State of Maine. The old saying "Buyer Beware" applies. You should also keep in mind that the lack of state licensing allows the worst contractors to compete for your business alongside the best. The Attorney General's Consumer Mediation Program ranks home contractors among the top three most complained about businesses every year.”

Doing your research when hiring a contractor is crucial for several reasons

Quality of Work: Different contractors have varying levels of professionalism, expertise and workmanship. Research helps you find someone who has a track record of delivering quality results that meet your expectations.

Reputation and Reviews: Checking reviews and testimonials from previous clients can provide insights into a contractor’s reliability, professionalism, and the quality of their work. This information can help you avoid contractors with a poor track record. Remember that the good contractors are working on getting your business right next to the bad contractors. It’s up to you to find the difference.

Credentials and Experience: Ensuring that the contractor has the necessary licenses when required, insurance, and certifications required by the state is vital. Maine is among 15 states that do not regulate home contractors. I highly recommend getting the contractor’s Certificate of Insurance directly from the insurance broker. Canceled COI policy documents can be forged to give the false impression that the policy is valid.. Researching their experience in the specific type of work you need helps ensure they are qualified for the job.

Price Estimates: By researching and comparing estimates from multiple contractors, you can avoid overpaying and identify a fair market price for your project.

Avoiding Scams: Unfortunately, there are fraudulent contractors who may try to take advantage of unsuspecting clients. Researching allows you to recognize red flags and avoid scams.

Communication and Compatibility: Finding a contractor who communicates well and understands your vision is essential for a successful project. Research helps you identify contractors who align with your communication style and project needs.

Warren O'Shea is the owner of O’Shea Builders LLC, Maine’s most award-winning remodeling contractor. He has 35-plus years of residential remodeling experience. He is a certified home inspector and has been featured on HGTV, Food Network, and Maine Cabin Masters. He is a recipient of the Portland Police Department’s “Citizen Award,” and is a staunch consumer advocate. Warren has, and continues to, co-author articles for nationally distributed trade magazines. <