Investment Properties

If you’re an investment property owner, energy efficiency is a great way to save money and protect the environment. When you improve energy efficiency of home appliances and systems, you spend less on energy bills. Plus, you help reduce pollution from power plants. Here are some energy-saving tips for your property.  

1. Seal Gaps and Leaks   

Heated or cooled air can leak through gaps and cracks in the home, driving up energy costs as much as 10%. Inspect windows and exterior doors and seal any gaps that you find. Replace dry and cracked rubber seals on your refrigerator door to help the appliance maintain the proper temperature. Inspect HVAC ductwork and repair all leaks.    

2. Insulate Your Property    

Make sure you adequately insulate your property. Insulation is rated according to R levels, with higher levels providing greater heat resistance. Attic insulation, for example, should meet the R-38 level or higher. The walls, basement, crawlspace, and garage should also be insulated.    

3. Choose Energy Star Certified Appliances   

Do your major appliances have the Energy Star label? Energy Star certification means an appliance has energy-saving features that can help you save money. Appliances over 10 years old — particularly refrigerators and clothes dryers — are less energy-efficient and will likely need replacing. It may also be time to upgrade your old HVAC system with Energy Star-certified heating and cooling equipment. Look for the Energy Star label when buying appliances and equipment.   

4. Switch to LED Lightbulbs    

To improve energy efficiency of home lighting, replace older lightbulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. LED lighting uses up to 90% less energy and lasts up to 25% longer than incandescent bulbs. Remember to turn off lights when not in use and use natural light whenever possible.    

5. Adjust Refrigerator and Freezer Temperatures    

Set your refrigerator and freezer temperatures according to manufacturer recommendations. A good temperature range is 35-38 degrees F for refrigerators and 0 degrees F for freezers. Defrost the freezer regularly to prevent ice from building up more than 1/4 inch thick. Excessive ice buildup can prevent the appliance from running efficiently.    

6. Install a Programmable Thermostat    

Replace a traditional thermostat with a programmable model to help regulate energy usage. Set the thermostat for optimal energy savings in hot weather for 78 degrees F and 85 degrees F when no one is home. During colder months, set the temperature at 68 degrees and 60-65 degrees F when the property is unoccupied.    

7. Run Dishwasher and Clothes Washer/Dryer During Non-Peak Hours

Avoid using the dishwasher, clothes washer, and dryer between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The power grid is under strain during these peak usage hours, so running these appliances later at night is best.    

Wash clothes in cold water and clean the lint trap before using the dryer. Even better, air-dry the clothes instead. Run the dishwasher only when full and turn off the heated dry setting.   

Let the general contracting team at RH Blanchard help make your Boston-area property more energy-efficient. To get a free quote, contact us today.

Home addition planning can be exciting and stressful for an investment property owner. From hiring a contractor to figuring costs, many factors must be considered. Keep the following tips in mind when making house addition plans.

#1 Decide Whether an Addition Is the Best Option

A home addition can be costly, so make sure it’s the best option for your property. Ask yourself if an addition is really in your best interest. Look at the space and layout that you already have. Can you finish the basement to provide an extra room? Maybe you can knock down an interior wall to better use adjacent spaces. 

#2 Consider What You Need From an Addition  

As an investment property owner, you want to create a livable, functional space for your tenants. House addition plans should meet the needs of the occupants. For example, a new kitchen should be constructed to provide a comfortable and efficient workspace. A master bedroom should serve as a quiet haven. When evaluating your property, consider what is lacking or needs improvement. Then, you can plan an addition that will improve the existing space.  

#3 Factor In Hidden Costs

Some home addition costs are easy to anticipate, such as building materials, labor, and permit fees. However, there are many less obvious costs to keep in mind during addition planning: 

Insurance and Tax Increases 

Two expenses will likely increase after an addition: home insurance and property taxes. On a positive note, higher insurance premiums mean that you’ll be covered if the new addition is damaged. Higher property taxes are a result of increased home value after an addition.  

Loan Interest and Fees

If you take out a loan to finance the addition, you will pay more than the loan’s original amount. Interest, origination, and processing fees add up quickly, so remember to include these costs in your budget.  

Landscaping 

During a home addition project, the surrounding lawn, shrubs and planting beds can take a beating from machinery. You may have to remove or replace plants and grass on the property. 

Cleanup 

When hiring a room addition contractor, understand the fees and responsibilities for waste removal and debris cleanup.  

#4 Weigh Cost vs. Resale Value

An addition may increase the resale value of your property. For example, a midrange bathroom addition can yield a 30 percent return on investment (ROI). However, the additional space can result in higher property taxes and other increased costs, such as heating and cooling. Depending on the local market, you may not recover the additional cost when selling your investment property. 

#5 Hire a Reputable Contractor  

A general contracting professional is indispensable when it comes to addition planning. Get bids from multiple room addition contractors and ask for project timelines, payment schedules, and warranty coverage details. Confirm that a contractor is licensed and insured, and check references from clients who have completed similar projects.   

At RH Blanchard, we make Boston-area house addition plans come to life. Get in touch with our general contracting team today for a free quote.

Universal home design makes a home more comfortable and accessible for everyone, regardless of age or mobility issues. Aging in place has become an especially important concept as the so-called “Baby Boomers” retire. Consider incorporating universal design elements if you plan to remodel your home or investment property.

Accessible Entrances and Exits

Entrances and exits, whether interior or exterior, should be easy and safe. Doorways should be at least 32 inches wide to accommodate a wheelchair or walker. A bench next to the entrance makes bringing groceries or packages easier.  

Railings are an important safety feature and should be included with all steps and staircases. Ideally, entrances should have no steps. You can, however, replace outdoor steps with ramps.  

Additional Lighting 

Pathways and hallways can become hazardous in dim light. Make sure indoor and outdoor walkways have adequate lighting. Consider installing skylights or additional windows to increase interior natural light. In hallways, add nightlights that turn on when indoor light becomes dim. Motion-sensitive outdoor lighting helps make entering and exiting safer and easier. 

Easy-to-Use Handles and Switches 

Operating door knobs and toggle switches can be difficult for people with limited strength. Door handles, light switches, and faucets should be easy to use. For example, you can replace toggle light switches with illuminated rocker switches pushed with an elbow or wrist. Install lever-style handles on doors and faucets for easy operation.  

Bathroom Safety Features

Unsurprisingly, most falls in the home occur in the bathroom. Wet bathroom floors are an especially common slip hazard. Many materials and features are available to make the bathroom a safer place, from textured flooring to grab bars.  

Universal home design elements can make bathroom fixtures accessible to people with limited mobility. For example, a shower bench or walk-in tub can help reduce the risk of falling. A wall-mounted toilet makes sitting down and standing up less hazardous than a lower, floor-mounted toilet.

User-Friendly Kitchen 

Many kitchen tasks, such as washing dishes and chopping vegetables, are easier to complete while sitting. Install low countertops and sinks and replace the island with a table to help create an accessible kitchen. On the other hand, some people may prefer to stand on a higher countertop to avoid bending over. Other features, like pull-out cutting boards and lever-style faucets, make a kitchen more user-friendly. 

Helpful Technology  

Simple tasks such as making a phone call or setting a thermostat can become more difficult as we age or live with mobility issues. These days, a variety of technologies are available that can make home life easier and safer for everyone. Some devices, for example, allow monitoring of older or more vulnerable occupants. Other technologies make using phones, locks, thermostats, and other important devices easier.

Is your Boston-area home or investment property safe and accessible for all ages and abilities? Let the experienced general contracting professionals at RH Blanchard help with your universal home design project. Contact us today to request your free quote.

If you own an investment property, you want to attract renters who plan to stay. With more than 3 out of every 4 seniors preferring to remain in their homes, an aging in place remodel may be just what your property needs. Read the following blog post to learn how modifications and additions help make a home livable for renters of all ages.

Bathroom

The first priority should be the bathroom, where water and slippery surfaces can increase the risk of falls. The bathroom should be easily accessible and safe. To prevent falls, install a textured floor surface and grab bars near the toilet and shower. A higher toilet seat makes it easier to sit and stand up. Since many seniors have a limited range of motion, consider installing a bench in the shower or tub.  

Ensure a bathroom is on the ground floor of a multi-story home. Adding a bathroom is expensive but can be less costly than a stairlift or elevator. 

Kitchen 

A busy spot in any home, the kitchen is another high-priority area for an aging in place remodel. Accessibility and safety are the goals. For example, lower countertops allow seniors to work while seated. Under the counters, ample drawer space provides easy access to heavier dishes. In cabinets, sliding shelves keep items within reach. Non-slip flooring or mats near the sink help prevent slips and falls.

Window Treatments 

Window treatments help regulate lighting and temperature in a home. However, trying to reach and operate tangled cords can be frustrating when adjusting blinds or shades. Even worse, it can result in a fall. Consider installing motorized window treatments that allow adjustment by pressing a button. You can even raise or lower all the shades or blinds in a room with multiple windows. 

Doorways and Hallways

Make sure that doorways are wide enough for a walker or wheelchair. Doors should have lever-style handles that can be opened with an elbow.  

Hallways should have bright lighting, with switches at both ends. While at it, make sure staircases have switches at the top and bottom. Install handrails along every hallway to improve safety.  

Floors 

Hardwood floors are attractive but can also be slippery and tough on aging feet. A soft, low-pile carpet is a better solution than area rugs, which can slide on a wood floor. The carpet will provide a non-slip surface and help keep feet warm and comfy. 

Home Exterior  

Front and back entrances often have steps that can challenge seniors. Ramps make going in and out of a home easier and safer. Replace exterior steps with ramps that can accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. A ramp should have a non-skid surface to prevent slips during wet or icy weather. 

Are you planning an aging in place remodel for your Boston-area investment property? At RH Blanchard, we have the general contracting expertise and skills necessary for senior-friendly upgrades and additions. Contact us to schedule a consultation and get a free quote.

When it comes to your property, curb appeal can add more than a great first impression. Good looks can add significant value to a home, whether it’s an attractive front yard or a fresh coat of paint, and can account for up to 7 percent of a home’s sale value. A professional contractor can safely and expertly paint your home exterior to help boost curb appeal and ensure your property looks as good as possible. These house painting tips will help you get started. 

#1 Choose Paint Color

Opt for paint colors that match the architectural style of your home. Home decorating magazines and websites are good places to start researching exterior colors. Paint company websites sometimes let you upload an image of your home and sample various colors. Before you start your painting project, buy a small amount of your chosen color and paint an inconspicuous area of your home. 

#2 Choose Paint Type and Finish

Besides color, you’ll also have to choose a paint finish and paint type. Satin or eggshell finishes have a light sheen that makes them fade-resistant and easier to clean. However, a flat finish may be best if you plan to take a break in the middle of your exterior paint project. Flat paint won’t show overlapping seams, so no one will notice where you left off and pick up again.

Water-based latex is a popular type of paint. However, oil-based latex works well on wood steps and steel railings. 

#3 Gather Tools

You can’t beat the old-fashioned brush and roller for DIY exterior paint projects. A sprayer may seem fast and efficient, but spray painting requires extensive preparation. For example, you must tape every surface that will not be painted. If saving time is a priority, consider using a brush and roller.  

#4 Take Time to Prep

Of course, you want your exterior paint to adhere to the surface. There are no shortcuts to the prep work if you want attractive, long-lasting results. Scrape off peeling paint. Remove rotten wood or apply hardener and wood filler. Clean, dry, and sand all surfaces that you plan to paint.  

#5 Apply Primer and Paint

Most exterior surfaces require two coats of paint. Apply an acrylic primer to most types of wood to create a smooth, sealed surface. Use an oil-based primer for redwood or cedar surfaces. After the primer dries, apply two coats of acrylic latex paint over the primer.  

#6 Work Smart  

This is one of the most important house painting tips we can offer. Some parts of your exterior paint project will be fun. Other parts, such as under the eaves, will seem like drudgery. Work on the most difficult and boring sections first while fresh. Then you can reward yourself by painting the house’s fun, most visible parts.  

Plus, maximize your time at the top of your extension ladder. To save time climbing the ladder, try to paint as far as you can safely reach while you’re up there.  

RH Blanchard has a skilled general contracting team available for your Boston-area exterior projects. For a free consultation, get in touch today!

When it’s time to sell, you want the best price for your investment property. Home staging can make your property stand out. According to the National Association of Realtors, 23 percent of sellers said that staged homes received 1 to 5 percent higher offers than non-staged homes. How does home staging work? Read on to find out. 

Declutter 

Getting rid of clutter lets you dramatically improve your property’s appearance without spending a fortune. The last thing you want potential renters to see is stacks of paper and crowded counter space. Consider putting extra furniture and accumulated garage junk in storage. You can always sort through stuff later. Right now, focus on decluttering your property. 

Keep it Clean

Now is the time to do that deep cleaning. Sparkling clean rooms create a positive first impression. Make those windows shine, dust the furniture, polish the floors and steam clean the carpet. Even door knobs and light switches need attention. Let potential renters or buyers see that you take care of your property. The last thing you want them to notice is a stained carpet or a collection of dust bunnies under the sofa. 

Choose the Right Color Scheme

Your rental doesn’t have to be awash in neutral tones, but a monochromatic color scheme, such as soothing shades of blue, is usually appropriate. Prospective renters can view the home as a whole without being distracted by a particular wall or ceiling. On the other hand, you may want to be a bit more adventurous with colors if your property sits in an arts district. 

Enhance Lighting

You want every room in the property to look bright and inviting. Make the most of your available natural light by washing the windows and opening the blinds. For lamps and ceiling lighting, choose higher-temperature LED bulbs that mimic the look of daylight. Maximize the sunny effect by cleaning your light fixtures. 

Repair and Refresh

Walk through your property and take note of items that need repairs. Make sure all light fixtures and bulbs work. Refresh the living room with new sofa cushions, or update the bedroom with a new comforter. Have pets scratched or chewed on the furniture? Could the walls use a new coat of paint? Simple repairs can make a big difference when staging a home.  

Remember Curb Appeal 

Of course, people will see the exterior of your property before they can enjoy the monochromatic color scheme and spiffed-up carpet. Therefore, don’t forget to consider curb appeal when staging your investment property.  

First, stand at the curb in front of the home and look for areas that need improvement. Check the lawn, planting beds, and front entry. The exterior walls, patio, and driveway could probably use good pressure washing. Mow the lawn, pull weeds, put down fresh mulch, trim the shrubs, and paint the front door. While you’re at it, a new mailbox and doormat wouldn’t hurt. 

How does home staging work? The general contracting professionals at RH Blanchard can answer your questions and make your Boston-area investment property shine. For a free quote, get in touch today!

Are you considering a whole-home remodel? From design to building codes, there are many factors to consider. Read the following tips for a successful remodel.

#1 Decide How to Fund Your Remodel

Depending on the work involved, the average cost of a whole-home remodel ranges from $18,000 to $165,000 or more. Cash and liquid assets are a great resource for funding your whole-home remodel. However, you can apply for a loan if you don’t already have the funds.. A home equity loan lets you use your remodeled home as collateral. The main drawback is you could lose the home if your payments are late. Credit cards are less desirable due to high interest rates. If you borrow from family or friends, make sure you have a clear repayment plan. 

#2 Hire Experienced Design-Build Contractors  

Reliable design-build contractors are indispensable for a large remodel project. Your best bet is to hire an experienced and skilled in-house team. A design-build team will have an organized system and efficient workflow. On the other hand, you may want to hire individual subcontractors if you need specialized work, such as a kitchen remodel. 

#3 Choose Your Style

Now is the time to rethink your home’s style and interior design. Is there a particular style — such as farmhouse, Early American, or mid-century modern — that you prefer? Areas where people gather, such as the living room and kitchen, should have the same theme. Discuss your style preferences with your design-build contractor. 

#4 Understand the Structural Requirements

Your whole-home remodel must meet local structural requirements. Any changes to the home must not interfere with the structural support of the building. The remodel must adhere to your area’s building code and other requirements.

#5 Apply for Permits 

Speaking of building codes, you’ll want to apply for the required permits as soon as possible. You don’t want to delay your project while you wait weeks or months for permit approvals. Plumbing, electrical and structural changes are examples of projects that need permits. General contractors will often do the paperwork for you. 

#6 Budget for Unexpected Issues

An extensive remodel is almost guaranteed to run into unexpected issues. Even the best plans can be sidetracked by complications, whether it’s plumbing or foundation problems. To avoid panic, make room for the unexpected in your budget and timeline. 

#7 Factor in Utilities

Your utilities may partially determine the extent of your remodel. Water, gas, or electrical systems have requirements that may limit some structural changes. Consult an experienced contractor about utilities in the early planning stages.

#8 Plan for the Future  

Keep the future in mind when planning a whole-home remodel. For example, current and future tenants will have to live with the remodel results. Will upgrades be necessary if you sell the property in the future?

At RH Blanchard, our experienced general contracting team is ready to get started on your Boston-area remodel. Contact us today for a free quote!

You want your Boston-area apartment investment property to look its best for prospective tenants. The right update can save you money or allow you to charge a higher rent. The following upgrades can refresh your property and boost your return on investment (ROI).

1. Update the Kitchen

You don’t have to spend a fortune on a complete kitchen renovation. Instead, consider adding a few upgrades. For example, replace cabinet doors and hardware instead of installing new cabinets. Add a tile backsplash or replace an old faucet with a modern fixture. Replacing kitchen countertops can account for up to 11 percent of total rent increases, according to the National Apartment Association (NAA).

Granite countertops may be attractive, but you may not be able to recoup the cost in that neighborhood. Formica laminate is heat resistant, lasts up to 20 years, and is less expensive so it helps your ROI.

2. Replace Bathroom Vanity 

A vanity combines a mirror, sink, countertop, and a cabinet or drawers for storage. For a cost-effective upgrade, consider replacing an old, worn-out vanity with a dramatically different style or color. You can even spruce up the existing vanity by replacing the sink fixtures, hardware, or mirror frame. An upgraded vanity can improve the look of an entire bathroom.

3. Install New Flooring

Let’s face it, genuine hardwood flooring is expensive and you may not be able to recover the cost in your apartment investment property market. Laminate flooring is an attractive, cost-effective alternative. Unlike genuine hardwood, it’s moisture-proof and scratch-resistant. Small sections of laminate flooring can be replaced or repaired, and it’s easy to keep clean. 

4. Add Lighting

You can’t beat lighting for creating an appealing living space. Lighting is one of the first things a potential tenant will see when looking at your property. You can make a great first impression by upgrading the lighting. Options include

• Ambient lighting for general illumination, such as ceiling lights and wall sconces.
• Accent lighting that highlights certain areas, such as track lighting or a spotlight on artwork.
• Task lighting for work areas, such as a kitchen counter.
• Dimmers that adjust the brightness of lighting.

5. Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances 

You can save yourself or your tenant’s money on utility bills if you opt for energy-efficient appliances. You will also increase the likelihood of finding a renter since green features are highly valued by prospective tenants. According to the National Apartment Association, up to 16 percent of total rent increases are attributable to energy-efficient appliances.

Look for Energy-Star-certified models when replacing a refrigerator, washer and dryer and other large appliances. Energy-Star products meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the US Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

6. Upgrade Windows 

Another potential energy-saver is to upgrade the windows. If you’ve ever felt a draft near an old window, you can understand the importance of installing new windows. When cold or warm air seeps in from outdoors, heating and cooling bills go up. 

Double-pane windows are a great choice for an apartment upgrade. They help maintain a consistent indoor temperature and keep out noise, too.

RH Blanchard can provide expert general contracting services for your apartment investment property. Request a free quote today!

You can make your investment property more eco-friendly and energy-efficient when you opt for sustainable upgrades. We’ve listed six green building design ideas in the following sections, from solar panels to reclaimed building materials.

1. Solar Panels 

Solar panels can be a worthwhile investment when you consider energy savings, rebates, and tax incentives. The greater the roof area, the greater your return on investment (ROI). For example, solar panels on a 10,000-square-foot roof can save up to $44,000 in energy costs per year. The federal tax credit will be 30% for solar panel installations in 2022-2032, 26% in 2033, and 22% in 2034. It is scheduled to expire in 2035. Many solar panels come with a 10-year manufacturer warranty and a 25-year warranty against generation loss. 

2. Rainwater Harvesting

With the water supply dwindling in many regions, rainwater harvesting is an important green building design option. As rainwater runs off the roof, it flows through drain pipes and is filtered and collected in a tank. The water is suitable for various uses, from irrigation to washing clothes. It is best to avoid drinking, brushing your teeth or cooking with rainwater, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Besides lowering your water bill, rainwater harvesting can help prevent sewer spillage during storms.   

3. Tankless Water Heater 

Instead of storing and heating gallons of water in a tank, a tankless water heater heats only on demand. It can cost up to $5000 to purchase and install, but the energy savings add up to an attractive ROI. Your energy bills can drop by 20 to 50 percent after installation. Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years and take up less space than a traditional water heater.  

4. Energy-Efficient Lighting 

Energy-efficient lighting can be a relatively simple green building design upgrade. Simply installing LED light bulbs can reduce home energy bills by an average of $225 per year. To increase natural light, you can make other changes, such as installing skylights, glass doors, or large windows. 

5. Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors

Besides increasing light, windows and doors can also help regulate interior temperatures. Energy-efficient windows keep cooled or heated air inside the home, reducing the work of heating and cooling systems. That’s a big help when you consider that poorly sealed windows and doors lose up to 30 percent of home energy.  

If you’d rather not replace your windows and doors, you can seal them to improve energy efficiency. Caulking, weatherstripping, and glaze are effective options. South-facing windows can help heat the home in the winter. During the summer months, cover the windows with shades or curtains to keep the room cool. 

6. Reclaimed Materials  

Why not reduce waste and save money during your next renovation project? You can use recycled or reclaimed flooring, wood beams, doors, and other building materials. Ask your design-build team about reclaimed materials that can be used for your project.

At RH Blanchard, our general contracting experts can help you add green design features to your Boston-area investment property. Contact us and get a free quote.

A home renovation project involves many decisions and considerations. For example, does your investment property need interior or exterior home renovations? The following sections will help you decide which renovations your property needs.

Why Do You Want to Renovate?

Before you commit to a project, ask yourself why you want to renovate. Are you planning to sell the property soon and want to increase the resale value? Does the property need structural repairs? Maybe you just want to make the home more functional or energy efficient. Understanding your reasons for renovating will help you decide whether to choose interior or exterior home renovations.

Interior Home Renovations

Property owners often renovate the interior because that’s where people will spend most of their time. From kitchen remodeling to new lighting, interior renovations result in changes that can improve our everyday lives.

Kitchen Remodel 

One of the more popular interior renovations is the kitchen remodel. This renovation will likely add value to your property, but the cost may be more than the increased value. Kitchen cabinets alone can cost $20,000. An entire kitchen remodel may give you a return on investment (ROI) of 60 percent, with an average cost ranging from $25,000 to more than $100,000. 

Bathroom Remodel 

A bathroom remodel can really spruce up a home interior. The average cost of a bathroom remodel ranges from $6600 to more than $28,000, with an average ROI of 60 to 67 percent after resale. Materials and the project’s complexity are major factors in determining the cost. 

Exterior Home Renovations

Besides adding curb appeal, exterior renovations can improve energy efficiency and save money. Examples include new siding, patios or decks, and structural upgrades. Here are some of the more popular types of exterior renovations: 

Window Replacement  

New windows will quickly improve your property’s curb appeal. More importantly, they can end energy waste from drafty windows. New windows can make it easier for your heating and cooling system to maintain a comfortable temperature. An upgrade to energy-efficient windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by an average of 12 percent. That can mean annual savings of $500 or more. 

Door Replacement  

Door replacement is another way to improve energy efficiency and curb appeal. Old, worn-out doors can be as drafty as old windows and easier to break into. Door replacement can make a dramatic improvement in the appearance of a home. If you’re replacing your front door, consider a style or color that will refresh your property’s exterior.  

Small Repairs  

Even small, relatively simple repairs can significantly affect a property’s appearance. If you’d rather not pay for an entire kitchen remodel, try replacing the faucets or installing new lighting for an updated look. The small repairs may even give you ideas for more extensive future projects.

An experienced general contracting professional is essential when it’s time for interior or exterior home renovations on your Boston-area investment property. Contact RH Blanchard today for a free quote.