Hello Homeowners!

This week we are taking a look at:

• Ten must have features in a new home

• A look back at how to hire contractors

• December maintenance

How The Audience Deals with Problems

10 Things I’d Put In A New Home

1. Triple Pane Windows

   1. Learn More Here

2. Thick Aluminum Gutters w/ Built in and removable Gutter Guard

   1. Learn More Here

3. A Full Basement (No Crawl Spaces)

   1. It is a shame when a few bucks are saved by putting small crawl spaces below the home. The other benefit is that there are no tricky foundation interfaces to deal with.

4. Window Shade Pockets for all 1st floor windows

   1. Learn More Here

5. Hot Water Recirculation Piping Throughout the Home

   1. Learn More Here

6. Heated Driveway (for cold climates) - Water Permeable Drive (for warm climates)

   1. Learn More Here

7. A Enginuity Generator Water Heater (Which also powers the heated driveway)

   1. Learn More Here

8. An HVAC Heat Pump for Each Floor, combined with room level damper temp control

   1. Learn More Here

9. Power Over Ethernet wiring to all potential places you’d want a security camera

   1. This type of ethernet wiring also sends power through the wire to supply electricity to the camera.

10. No Trees Near Sidewalks (to prevent roots lifting sidewalks)

    1. Lifted sidewalks and trip hazards are a big pain. Avoid these issues by keeping trees away.

In Case You Missed It - Tips For Hiring Contractors

Maintenance List For December

Home maintenance you can tackle in December includes:

1. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors. Replace batteries as needed.

2. Check/Change Furnace Filter.

3. Clean out your gutters/downspouts.

4. Run ice through your garbage disposal.

5. Clear leaves and sticks from yard.

6. Lubricate garage overhead door springs, rollers and pivot hinges.

7. Replace furnace humidifier pad.

Run Ice Through Your Garbage Disposal

About the Author

I’m Adam Rich, a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) and Real Estate Salesperson in the state of Ohio. I help discerning homeowners like you take control of the complexity behind your home.

With a background in engineering, property management, construction, and real estate investing, I specialize in helping understand the systems that make your home work.

Whether you're planning major renovations, systems upgrades, assessing long-term maintenance, or just want to get a handle on your home’s true condition, I deliver expert-level answers in clear, practical language.

Ready for Expert, Unbiased Advice?

Whether it’s a one-time consultation or an ongoing relationship, I offer homeowners peace of mind through clear insights, practical planning, and calm expertise.

I am available to consult on home maintenance and improvements, new construction decisions and options, real estate investing or purchases, real estate engineering matters, and other home systems matters.

The content of this newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always perform your own due diligence before making any financial decisions.