WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FLOOD INSURANCE

 It is Springtime and mountain snow is beginning to melt.  Early rains are starting as April makes way for May and June and growing flowers.  So, why do I need to think about flood insurance if it does not flood in my area?

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration more than 75% of flash flooding happens between late April and early September.  When water backs up and overflows it generally goes where it does not belong and causes damage to homes and the local economy.

Here are four (4) key things you need to know about flood insurance.

1. Homeowners insurance and flood insurance are not the same.  Homeowners insurance covers water damage from sinks and bathtubs overflowing but will not cover damage from flooding. Flood insurance covers damage incurred following a natural water disaster like excessive rain or hurricane.

2. People who live in flood plains are the only ones who need flood insurance.  Swollen rivers and streams are not mindful of flood plains.  Three inches of water above the foundation line of your house is sufficient to cause damage to baseboards and drywall.

3. There are preventive measures you can take to mitigate the effects of flooding in your house. Install a sump pump along with battery backup, improve drainage around your house by cleaning leaves from gutters and downspouts.  Installing water sensors to alert you to water or leaks within you house can reduce damage.

4. Some insurance companies offer to reimburse homeowners up to $10,000 for materials such as sandbags and the sand to fill them, for temporary levees, pumps or plastic sheeting and lumber. 

BOTTOM LINE: Never underestimate the risk of flooding and be aware of the significant amount of damage that flooding can cause in your area.  Make sure you are protected with the right kind of insurance.

HOW TO INCREASE YOUR HOUSE'S VALUE BEFORE YOUR MOVE

 Increasing the value of your house prior to sale can help make your property stand out from among the crowd.  By focusing on selected improvements, the sale process can move smoother.

Here are three areas to concentrate on to increase your house value.

1. Improve your house's curb appeal.  Plants and shrubs which obscure the front view of your house create a dark and foreboding look to your house.  Consider a new landscaping plan that brings an unobstructive view of your house and is warm and inviting. 

A fresh coat of paint for the front door would not hurt either. Use a color pallet that is warm and draws potential buyers in.

It is obvious that your house's yard should be freshly mowed, and debris picked up.

2. Give your house a deep cleaning.  Open the windows and let in the fresh air may be a great starting place for many, but we are talking about going through and cleaning floors, photographs, curtains or blinds, lamp shades and any place that dust and dirt may be hiding.

3. Fix imperfections. A fresh coat of paint, patching up damaged trim, and fixing other visible blemishes will make the house more appealing.  Eliminating pet smells and stains is also important as they are offensive to potential buyers.

Bottom Line Document all your upgrades if you replaced a bathroom or purchased new kitchen appliances.  Keep records of the costs and dates of the upgrades.  Small fixes can add increased value.