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How to Prepare Your McAllen Luxury Home for the Changing Season

Posted on April 22, 2024 by CODESM Support - Uncategorized

Happy family cleans the room in the house

McAllen offers a unique experience of mild, warm winters and vibrant summers. Although extreme weather conditions are a rare occurrence, these subtle seasonal shifts can impact your luxury home. Thus, it is important to ensure that your home remains comfortable, efficient, and safe throughout the year.

Gearing up for proactive seasonal changes can enhance your living experience, prepare you for unexpected changes in the weather, and preserve your property’s value.

In this article, let’s look at some important tips on how to prepare your home throughout the year to welcome the different seasons.

Preparing Your Home for Spring

When the cold of winter starts to fade, nature and our spirits become revitalized by the feeling of growth and renewal. As everything around us springs up with new life from the new year, we also need to revitalize our homes inside and out.

According to Forbes, a spring cleaning checklist should consist of window washing, vacuuming and cleaning rugs, replacing lightbulbs, and cleaning the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living room.

Here are some tips on how you can prepare for spring:

Spring cleaning

Winters can be dry and, therefore, dusty. So, deep cleaning your home can be beneficial for your mood and your health. Open up your windows, and clean the glass, window panes, and baseboards. Don’t forget to inspect your screens for damages and repair them to prevent insects from entering the house.

Inspect the outdoors

Check your entire house and roof for any signs of damage or wear and tear. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, you can maintain your roof by:

Removing tree limbs, if any, around your roof
Checking if there are any damaged or missing shingles, especially if your area witnessed a storm recently
Seeing if there are any loose bricks in your chimney
Ensuring gutters are not clogged

You can schedule a professional to maintain and repair any visible damage to ensure structural integrity.

Prepare your outdoor space

McAllen is known for its outdoor activities, so prepare your patio furniture, fire pit, and outdoor kitchen area. You can also pressure wash exterior surfaces to remove all the winter grime and accumulated dust and reveal a clean and vibrant surface.

HVAC care

Schedule a professional maintenance service for your air conditioning unit. This will help to maintain its operational efficiency before the summer heat arrives. Remember to regularly clean the air filters as well throughout the year to maintain the functionality of the unit.

Preparing Your Home for Summer

August can be the warmest month of the year, with temperatures reaching 86.4 °F. With the rising temperatures, it is very important to prepare your home to embrace the heat so you can enjoy a comfortable summer. Get your home ready for a summer of outdoor fun and relaxation.

From maintaining your air conditioning systems for optimal cooling to enhancing energy efficiency and creating fun outdoor living spaces, here are important tips on how to prepare your home for the summer season:

HVAC maintenance

Make sure your HVAC unit is functioning properly, and schedule a professional inspection to ensure that it is in optimal condition. Southern Living recommends you clean or replace air filters as it will improve indoor air quality and maximize cooling efficiency. Also, clear out any debris or vegetation growth from the outdoor unit to promote unrestricted airflow.

Energy efficiency enhancement

Put blackout blinds, curtains, or solar shades on the south-facing windows to minimize heat gain and block out excess sunlight. You can also upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to lower electricity consumption and minimize utility costs. You can also consider installing an indoor thermostat to keep the indoor temperature in check and lower energy waste.

Clean the gutters

Rio Grande Valley often experiences occasional downpours during the summer season, so it is best to clean out your gutters and ensure smooth functioning. This will help you avoid water damage to your gutters. Also, remember to trim back tree branches that can potentially scratch against your roof or windows during strong winds.

Enhance insulation

Consider adding or repairing the insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces. This can help you minimize heat gain in summer and also make your house more energy efficient.

Preparing Your Home for Fall

As leaves begin to fall, days become shorter, and temperatures become cooler, it’s time to turn your home into a warm and cozy living space. It is essential to start transitioning your HVAC systems, enhance indoor comfort, and prepare for autumn. Here are a few tips to start preparing your home for fall:

Transitioning your HVAC system

Switch your system from cooling to heating mode by adjusting the thermostat. This is also the best time to schedule and get your HVAC serviced professionally.

Check seals and weather stripping

Maintaining energy efficiency is important to keep the heat trapped indoors and lower utility bills during cold seasons. Thus, it’s essential to inspect or replace weather stripping around doors and windows if it appears dried or cracked.

You can replace them yourself using online guides or seek professional assistance. Additionally, inspect for cracked seals on floors, walls, and ceilings, as even minor cracks can impact HVAC performance. Use caulk and putty to seal any cracks found to ensure optimal temperature regulation throughout your home.

Add insulation

Adding or enhancing insulation in your home will significantly improve energy efficiency as it will minimize heat loss in the colder months. You can also invest in energy-efficient windows or doors to further enhance insulation and reduce energy costs.

Fireplace maintenance

If you use a fireplace during the cold season, it’s important to give it and the mantle some attention before lighting any fires. Start by inspecting the chimney for accumulated wood residue and creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard if left unchecked.

Additionally, check for signs of wear and tear, such as flue blockages or other damages, and address them promptly. Don’t forget to examine the chimney top for any bird nests or other obstructions that could hinder proper ventilation. Finally, consider renovating the fireplace mantle to ensure optimal heat distribution throughout your home.

Smart security updates

House fires during winter are a common occurrence because of the use of candles, fireplaces, and heaters. Therefore, fall is the best time to start installing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. These smart security gadgets will safeguard you during the winter months.

If you already have them in place, call a professional for servicing or maintenance to check the electrical connections and replace the batteries if needed.

Winterizing Your Home

January is the coldest month of the year in McAllen. Hence, it becomes essential to prepare your luxury home to withstand the challenges of the colder months while maintaining comfort as you prepare for holiday festivities.

From insulating outdoor fixtures to ensuring efficient heating systems, here are a few tips on preparing your home for the cold winter months:

Remove outdoor pipes

Remove all outdoor hoses and ensure they are thoroughly drained to prevent damage. Store them in a warmer area, like a garage or basement. Also, remember to cover and insulate all outdoor pipes and faucets to prevent freezing and potential bursts during cold snaps.

Manage your irrigation system

Cutting off the water supply from your irrigation system will help to prevent freezing and bursting.

Prevent water damage

Let indoor faucets drip during freezing temperatures and open cabinet doors to circulate warm air around pipes, especially those on exterior walls. This will prevent freezing.

Seal cracks and crevices

Weatherstripping and caulking are effective ways to prevent cold air from infiltrating your home during the winter months. This not only helps to keep you cozy but also translates to lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions. Also, proper sealing can help preserve the integrity of your home’s structure by preventing moisture buildup and potential damage caused by fluctuating temperatures. Whether it’s sealing around windows and doors, filling gaps in baseboards, or caulking around pipes and electrical outlets, taking the time to address these areas can make a significant difference in your home’s energy efficiency and overall comfort.

HVAC maintenance

Change furnace filters regularly to improve airflow and efficiency. Schedule a tune-up with an HVAC professional to ensure optimal furnace performance and detect and solve potential issues.

The Value of Professional Inspections for Long-term Upkeep

The cost to build a custom home in RGV lies in the range of $260,000 to $400,000. Hence, professional inspections are invaluable for maintaining your luxury home. Here’s how professional inspections help:

Expertise

Professionals have the know-how to spot issues that you might overlook. They can also suggest preventive measures to avoid future repairs.

Efficiency

Professionals can carry out inspections and maintenance tasks more quickly and effectively than most homeowners.

Peace of Mind

Regular inspections offer reassurance that your home is well-maintained and any issues are caught early. This allows for prompt repairs, preventing minor problems from becoming major headaches.

Build Your Luxury Home With Us!

Owning a luxury home in McAllen, Texas, comes with the responsibility of maintaining its comfort and efficiency throughout the changing seasons. From scorching summers to mild winters, each season brings unique challenges that require proactive preparation.

By following these essential guidelines, you can ensure that your McAllen luxury home remains comfortable and efficient all year round. Got any query? Stuck anywhere? Contact one of the leading luxury custom home builders, Trevino Luxury, today for any professional assistance.

This is Why You Don’t Need a Realtor When Buying a New Home

Posted on August 26, 2022 by CODESM Support - Uncategorized

While calling up a realtor is often the first thing people do when they decide to buy or build a home, the reality is that you don’t need one to get your dream home. And sometimes, skipping the realtor can benefit you in the long run. Here are some of the reasons you don’t need a realtor when buying a new place to live.

A realtor is not legally required in Texas.

While realtors and home buying may seem inseparable, Texas does not require you to hire a real estate agent in order to obtain your home. Many real estate transactions take place without one every year, both in Texas and throughout the United States.

What you do need to successfully build your ideal home is a building partner who is committed to a personalized experience that prioritizes your idea of luxury, a dedication to your vision that makes you unafraid to ask for your want, knowledge about the process, and some organizational skills, since there are many details you will need to keep organized.

The right home builder will guide you through the entire process.

If you are buying a house without a realtor, it is true that you may desire assistance at certain points throughout the process. The good news is that you aren’t alone at any step, as long as you find the right home builder to use.

Home builders do more than just put up your new home. They can serve as a support for you throughout the entire home building process. Need financing? Want to find a place to build? Concerned about finishes? Worried about what will happen if problems arise after your home is finished? A good home builder is usually able to allay your concerns by making themselves available to answer questions and provide guidance.

With the support of a good home builder, you don’t need a real estate agent. You already have someone you can rely on to make the home building or buying process easier.

Your home builder can direct you to the home buying resources you need.

From finding a reputable lender to understanding how a construction loan works to learning which home features are most likely to add value to the home, getting a little bit of professional insight can go a long way.

However, a real estate agent isn’t the only person who has the expertise and resources you need for a successful experience. Your home builder can also serve as a valuable partner in getting you your dream residence. Here are some the ways in which their expertise and resources can make the process smoother:

Provide information about loans and the loan process
Answer your questions about the homebuilding process
Answer questions about finishes, layouts, and home value
Direct you to the best areas in which to buy or build
Balance your budget realities AND your home ownership vision

Want to find a central and beautiful lot within the RGV? The right builder can offer you many neighborhoods from which to choose – Or even help you build on your own lot. Looking for a lender you can trust? Home builders often have lenders they can recommend who have years of experience and competitive rates. Need advice on design and finishes? There is no one better than a home builder, who is always aware of the latest trends and more than able to ensure you get a home that will serve as a luxurious and rewarding space for many years.

Find the right home builder instead of a realtor.

You don’t need a realtor when buying a new home if you find the right home builder. So what should you look for in your home building partner? Seek someone who has these qualifications:

Ability to customize your home to your specifications
A dedication to luxury and quality in every detail
A passion for creativity and excellence
Years of experience in the style of home you desire
A great reputation from former clients
An attentive and responsive communication style
Superior materials and craftsmanship

Try to go beyond what every home builder claims to have: Experience and reliability. Those are critical, but in order to get a home you will love forever, you also want someone willing to build you a home that makes you feel pampered and indulged every time you step through the door.

Treviño Construction exists to deliver that personalized, indulgent, and luxurious home building experience, from the moment you decide to build until you walk into your home with very own set of keys. We work directly with your family to ensure that the home you end up with is a complete luxury lifestyle that suits you for life. Want to learn more? Contact us today!

5 Tough Questions to Ask When Hiring a Luxury Home Builder

Posted on August 10, 2022 by CODESM Support - Uncategorized

In order to turn your dream home into a luxurious reality in the Rio Grande Valley, or elsewhere, you need a home building partner. And that means you need to vet your high-end residential builders carefully. Not every business will have the ability to create the personalized home you deserve. Here are 5 of the tough, but necessary, questions you should ask.

How much experience do you have?

The more experience a high-end residential builder has, the better equipped they will be to deliver every feature you are dreaming of in your new home. Look for a builder who has at least several years of experience, AND who has experience in the following areas:

Building the type of luxury homes you want for yourself
Building in your preferred area and/or neighborhoods

When considering the experience of luxury custom home builders, you should also look into the projects that they have completed over the years that they have been in business. This means requesting a look at their portfolio and checking their references.

Here are some questions to ask previous clients:

How closely did the home builder stick to your vision?
How smoothly did the process go?
Was the project completed on time?
Was the home builder attentive and responsive?
Did you end up with the home you wanted?
What challenges arose during the project, and how were they handled?
Was it easy to make changes and upgrades during the project?

Finally, when looking at their experience, also consider the number of projects they are working on now. You want a home builder who is active in the industry, but who also has the time to devote to your project.

Are you properly licensed and insured?

While it may feel awkward to ask about insurance matters, determining how protected your home builder is can keep you from financial difficulties and stress if something goes wrong during the project. Don’t just settle for a company that is licensed and insured. Make sure they are appropriately certified for your state and, if applicable, meet any local requirements.

In addition, you should look at their paperwork for yourself. Most honest luxury custom home builders will offer copies of their license and proof of insurance without even being asked, but if not, be sure to request those copies before you move forward with them.

How much customization is possible with your homes?

In order to bring your homebuilding vision to life, you want to customize as many details of your new residence as possible. That means finding a builder who is dedicated to your dream, your desires, and your needs throughout every step of the process.

When vetting high-end residential builders, take into account the amount of customization they can offer you. Do they have certain home styles from which you can choose or do they allow you to have more input into the design process? How many options do they have for finishes for detailing? What type of floor plans do they offer?

The more options you have, the more closely you can build a home that matches your vision. But do not just settle for a builder who gives you many options. Seek out a luxury custom home builder who is dedicated to quality options.

A truly extraordinary home is defined by quality craftsmanship and high-end materials. Does your builder invest in both? While options that match your budget are important, every material, finish, and crafted aspect of your home should be durable, beautiful, and luxurious.

Who is the point of contact during my project?

Building a luxury custom home is a long process with many decisions to be made. You can expect to have many questions as the project progresses, and you may encounter problems that require the builder’s assistance to resolve.

That is why identifying a point of contact for the project is important. Is your high-end residential builder able to provide you with the name and contact information of the person who will be overseeing the project and responsible for communicating with you? Can you meet that person before the project commences? This person should meet the following requirements:

They should be responsive to your questions.
They should be attentive.
They should be easy to talk to.
They should be available.
They should be able to resolve your questions and concerns.

Avoid any home builders who are not able to provide you with a point of contact with whom you feel comfortable.

What is your process for new home construction?

Before you begin a project with a home builder, you should know what to expect from the process. Here are a few important details to iron out before you hire someone:

Project Timeline

How long will your home take to complete? At what stages will you be working on the design, choosing finishes, and scheduling inspections? How often do their projects run long? And how do they handle delays and problems along the way?

Customization Deadlines

Is the company you hire able and willing to make changes and customizations after the project is underway? And if so, what deadlines are there for requesting those changes?

Financing Details

How much will it cost to build a custom home in the RGV? Can your builder direct you to reliable sources to discuss and set up financing for your new home? Can they recommend lenders for pre-qualification? How does financing work, and when will I know the final cost of my home?

Inspections and Walkthroughs

When do inspections and walkthroughs occur? What are your options for dealing with problems that may arise at those times?

Your Responsibilities

What responsibilities do you have during the process? What deadlines do you have to be aware of? How will you receive updates and information about the project? Are you welcome on the construction site during the project?

A reliable, experienced and attentive builder will be the partner you need to create your perfect home. Know what to ask luxury home builders, and remember to turn to Treviño Construction for a truly personalized home building experience.