WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU HIRE A CONTRACTOR – Part VI – Planning for Energy Conservation and The Owner/Builder

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In Uncategorized No comments

Planning for Energy Conservation – Because of rising energy and housing costs, it is advisable when planning an addition in your home to considerer its impact on overall energy use. Some basic energy conservation measures that can be included in your plans are weather stripping, caulking of doors and windows, replacement dual-pane windows, attic and […]

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SPECIAL OFFER >12 ISSUES INCLUDED IN A BUILDING SURVEY

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In News No comments

An inspection of the building with particular reference to construction problems outlining any visible defects in accordance with photographic illustrations attached to this report and also a comparative analysis of areas built according provided documentation. Note 1: It would be necessary the collaboration of the estate agent, seller, seller´s legal adviser, key holder, administrators, authorities […]

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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU HIRE A CONTRACTOR – Part V: The contract – Make sure everything is in writing

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In Legal No comments

Assume nothing! Although you might assume that a contract should look a contract, anything you sign could be used by a contractor as authorization to go forward with your project. This means that any budget you sign may become the contract. Do not sign anything until you completely understand what are you signing and agree […]

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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU HIRE A CONTRACTOR – Part IV: Get Competitive Budgets for the Project

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In News No comments

It is advisable to get at least of three written budgets using identical plan and specifications so you can compare prices and contractors and do not automatically accept the lowest. Make sure all budgets are based in the same set of specifications. Discuss the budgets in details with each contractor and make sure you understand […]

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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU HIRE A CONTRACTOR Part III – Contractors Liability Insurance Coverage

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In Uncategorized 3 Comments

Ask the contractor if the company is insured against claim covering workers´ compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents. Ask to see a copy of the certificate of insurance or ask for the name of the contractor´s insurance carrier and agency to verify that the contractor has this insurance. Workers compensation insurance […]

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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU HIRE A CONTRACTOR – Part I: The buyer beware

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In Buildings 1 Comment

Currently contractors are competent, honest and hardworking, however, contractors are in business to make money. A responsible and informed consumer knows that the “buyers beware principle” can help prevent or minimize frustration or disappointment when preparing to make a mayor purchase decision. By carefully considering what you want to have done to your property, what […]

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TIPS

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In Fees 30 Comments

ADVICES It is important when buying in Spain that you have a survey undertaken before you place a deposit on a property. In comparison to the level of investment that is required to purchase a property, the cost of a detailed surveyor’s report amounts to a small but worthwhile investment. Note that depending on the […]

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STAGE YOUR HOME

By Daniel Gonzalez Aranda In Real estate No comments

You never have a second chance to make a first good impression! Tips for home sellers on some little things that you can do to help yourself to sell your home expediently. 1.-Remove extra and unnecessary furniture, rooms that are pared down feel bigger allowing potential buyers to imagine their furniture in those spaces. 2.-Neutralize […]

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