By

Reuben Saltzman

My Beef With Old Gas Log Fireplaces

I'm not a fan of gas log fireplaces because they waste energy and they're a potential safety hazard. These fireplaces start out as wood burning fireplaces, but at some point...
Read More

Trees, Power Lines, Responsibility

The two most common issues I find with overhead power lines during home inspections are trees rubbing up against them and exposed contacts that present an immediate shock hazard.
Read More

Artificial Firelogs – Safe?

Artificial firelogs are not bad for your fireplace; in fact, they're cleaner, safer, easier, and cheaper than regular wood. Artificial firelogs are also known as fake firelogs, wax firelogs, or...
Read More

Repairs after the Home Inspection: Are Re-Inspections Necessary?

I know from experience that maybe half of the repairs will be completed properly, and the other half either won't be done or will be done incorrectly. I charge the...
Read More

Window Stains, Window Leaks

Water stains on window sills is often a source of anxiety for home buyers, and it’s the home inspector’s job to help determine if the stains are the sign of...
Read More

Chimney Repairs: Be Careful of Who You Hire

I don't get hired to re-inspect chimney repairs often, but when I do, I'm often disgusted. Here's how it works: the home inspector says the chimney needs repair, and the...
Read More

Exhaust Gas Leaks on Boilers

Without question, the biggest problem that I find with boilers on old Minneapolis and Saint Paul homes is leaking exhaust gas. While every heating contractor knows to look for backdrafting...
Read More

Water Softener Installation Defects

I'm not sure if it's handy homeowners or negligent contractors that are responsible, but I find the same installation defects on water softeners over and over again.  The installation instructions...
Read More
1 88 89 90 91 92 111

Subscribe to Our Newsletter for Market Updates & Mid-Century Modern Listings

Our weekly HomesMSP Update includes current local market information and a curated list of mid-century modern properties for sale, plus posts from an inspector, a lender, a stager, info about neighborhoods, life in the Twin Cities… even recipes!

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Blog Categories

Archives

Sharon and John Hensrud

About Us

The HomesMSP Team is committed to meeting you where you are and listening… really listening to understand you so we can use our extensive knowledge of the market and local neighborhoods to give you personalized service.