Fall 2020
Minimizing Holiday Debt
Provided by the Richmond City Virginia Cooperative ExtenSion
As children and families spend more time at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to understand the impact allergens in your home can have on your body and how to reduce them. Allergic reactions can include runny or stuffy nose, coughing, puffy eyes, itching, hives, or a rash. A more serious reaction maybe asthma. If your family suffers from allergies, know the signals and how to react promptly. A few common home environmental allergens are; pollen, pet dander, mold, roaches, rodents, dust mites, chemicals, and perfumes.
Doctors can help identify what you may be allergic to in the home. Your ability to narrow down some of the items that cause reactions will help the doctor in the identification process.
Here are some tips to help eliminate household allergens:
Keep clutter to a minimum—dust collects and provides places for pest to hide.
Purchase an air filter system that aids in breathing, especially at night.
Carpet holds dust and dander—vacuum frequently.
Clean appliances, air and heat units and change filters at least quarterly.
Use zippered covers for pillows and mattresses for dust mites—wash frequently.
Store open food in sealed containers, clean up crumbs and spills – eliminates pests (roaches, etc.) Also repair plumbing leaks or cracks in pipes where pests can travel.
Keep pets away from sleeping areas—bedrooms, beds, etc.
Prevent mold by keeping a dry home—houseplants can increase mold.
See Virginia Cooperative Extension's publication FCS-3, “How Housing Matters” on their website for additional information or call the Richmond City Virginia Cooperative Extension Office at 804-786-4150.
The Future of Homeownership
With historically low interest rates, homeownership is a commodity! However, the advantage of a lower interest rate brings a very competitive housing market. Well qualified buyers are locking in interest rates as low as 3 percent. That has flooded the market with more buyers than available homes, causing the market to become a bidding war. Inventory is down by 4.6 percent, so don’t be surprised if you run into other potential buyers that are looking to purchase the same home. Sellers say that homes are selling within 5-9 days. It’s been difficult finding affordable housing in the neighborhoods with SCDHC properties, leaving a lot of unused grant assistance available to first time homebuyers to help with down payments and closing costs. Consider taking advantage of Pre-Purchase Counseling at SCDHC with a qualified Counselor to obtain a personalized plan and financial skills in order to become mortgage ready and prepare yourself for the market ahead.
Jim’s Handy Home Hints
Are your hallways and stairs in good condition?
Are they free from clutter?
Are your steps that are wide enough for your whole foot?
Do you have handrails on both sides of the stairway?
Can you grasp your hand rails securely? Are they secure/tight to the wall?
Would you benefit from building a ramp over the stairs outside of your home?
If you answered no to any of these items, consult with a general contractor to make repairs as soon as possible. Always obtain at least 3 estimates before making a decision and remember the lowest price does not mean you get the best workmanship. Check references!
Stairs are the place where most falls occur. Always hold onto the handrail, make sure the hallway is well lit, top-to-bottom. Never use wax or polish on steps, if you have carpeted stairs make sure the carpet is tight and secure to the underlayment. Most importantly make sure stairs are protected for young children.