Ok, we all know what happens in the summer, besides going to the beach and cooking out, the experts tell us that the hurricane season is upon us and will wreak havoc. But, if we prepare ourselves, we can make it through a little wind and rain. Here are some rational tips that I'd like to share with you to keep your home and biggest investment safe and sound.
Here in Lincoln Forest, Wilmington, NC, we've seen our share of hurricanes. During Floyd, numerous pine trees came down during the storm. The City of Wilmington made piles of pine trees at the end of Sweetbriar that looked like someone had played pick-up-sticks. The piles were over ten feet tall. We lost electricity for a few days but if you'll follow the tips below, it will make riding out the storm easier.
1. Consider having removed large pine trees that are close to the house. One of my better moves was to have a pine tree with a four foot taken out that was located next to our deck. Yes, it was expensive, $800.00 but it included chipping out the base and gave me peace of mind.
2.Visit yard sales to pick up an old gas tank. I found one for $5.00 (compared to $40.00 for new) and can quickly have two tanks sitting by in case the power goes out. Who can complain cooking every meal on the grill?
3. Stock up on bottled water, can goods, candles, flashlights and batteries. I keep a box of decent canned goods in the garage.
4. If a storm is headed our way, I wash ALL the clothes, empty the dishwasher (speaking of which, buy paper plates.......), scrub the bathtubs so I can leave them filled with water.
5. Check the roof for any loose shingles. I have had to re-glue a few. Check trees near the house for limbs that may be touching the house. Trim them back NOW.
Did you know that a house that is to sell or close can't pass inspection if tree limbs are touching the roof. It's just not a good idea.
6. This is not the time to fill the freezer with the BOGO. It's the time to start working through the expensive meat items you have in the freezer. If you have to fill it up, fill it with ice cubes from your refrigerator. It can keep the freezer items frozen for up to five days, if you don't open the door. Forget about the ice cream, eat it(today is the day to clean out the freezer of the expensive meats, fish, etc.)
7. Above all, remain level headed. Some of the best parties I've been to were HURRICANE parties. Talk about a potluck.
8. Neighbors are very important during this time. Check with them to see what supplies they have available. Someone might have a generator to keep the freezer working during a power outage, another neighbor might have a Coleman grill, and yet another might have a screened in porch to sleep in if the weather turns too humid.
9. Remember for all your real estate needs, give me a call, Mary Bridges at 910.612.7077 to go to:
www.FreeWilmingtonSearch.com
