2020 Home and Auto

2020

home & auto

October 2020

A Special Supplement to the

Roswell Daily Record 2601 W. SECOND, ROSWELL • 575-625-1000 WWW.RLCHEVROLET.COM “Ride for the Brand”

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OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Roswell Daily Record STAFF

Publisher

Circulation Director

Barbara Beck

Jim Dishman

General Manager

Advertising Director

SaraLei Fajardo Manny Gonzalez Editor

John Dilmore Managing Editor & Layout

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Composing Director Layout & Cover Design

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Advertising Sales

Melanie Page Ad Design

Sandra Martinez Mary Morgan Aric Loomis Contributing Writers

Lisa Dunlap

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OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Home sales remain steady, prices continue to rise in 2020

Submitted Photo Esther Purkey of the Roswell Association of Realtors

By Lisa Dunlap Roswell Daily Record

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ome sales for the local area, which includes Chaves County and a portion of Eddy County, remain steady, in spite of the economic impacts of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the average price of homes continues to rise.

The local area has seen 469 sales from January through September 2020. That compares to 538 sales for

the same period in 2019, according to Esther Purkey, board president for the Roswell Association of Realtors and a broker with McDaniel Home Solutions.

While sales are a bit behind in 2020, the average price has been up, reaching $189,470 in September 2020. That’s about 10.8% higher than the average price of $171,059 in September 2019.

“We usually see a slowdown in the fall and winter months,” Purkey said, “but with a continued inventory shortage, I expect the market to remain strong.”

Historically low mortgage rates are a major factor leading to continued strong home sales locally, as well as in the state and nation, according to various real estate sites. Interest rates for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage loan hit a record low on Oct. 15 of 2.81%, according to the National Association of Realtors.

Low housing inventory is another factor in the local area. The 132 singlefamily homes on the market in September 2020 is at least 50% lower than the inventory available during most months in the past few years, Purkey said.

The National Association of Realtors has written in an online post that sales to existing home owners have been especially strong in 2020, as the lower interest rates meant that buyers could afford a bigger home.

Another indication of the strength of the local market is the number of days that listed homes stay on the market.

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Purkey said that, for 2019, the average days on market was 107, but that had dropped to 95 for the first nine months of 2020.

When looking at year-over-year data, the local market had 682 single-family home sales from September 2018 to September 2019, compared to 623 for September 2019 to September 2020.

Average home sales price was $167,399 from September 2018 to September 2019. It rose by 12.8% to $188,800 for the 12 months of September 2019 to September 2020.

The New Mexico Association of Realtors indicates that statewide home sales from January to September 2020 have totaled 19,232. For the same period in 2019, sales in New Mexico were 19,142.

Average sales price statewide for September 2020 was $323,475. That’s a

16.4% increase compared to the average sales price of $277,869 in September 2019.

On a national level, existing home sales have recovered after a major decline that started in March 2020 and saw negative numbers in April, May and June compared to the same months in 2019. For September 2020, existing home sales were 20.9% higher than for September 2019.

As with the local and state experience, prices remained higher for all months in 2020, compared to 2019.

By September 2020, the median price was 14.8% higher than in September 2019, according to the national realtors group.

Senior Writer Lisa Dunlap can be reached at 575-622-7710, ext. 351, or at reporter02@rdrnews.com.

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OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Simple ways to save on heating costs this winter Metro Creative Services

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omfort takes center stage each winter. As people look to stay warm, many may be quick to turn up the thermostat so their entire home is toasty warm.

But much like cranking air conditioners during the dog days of summer, turning up the thermostat each time the winter winds begin blowing can prove costly for homeowners.

According to estimates from the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association, homeowners spent an average of $911 on home heating costs in the winter of 2019-20.

The winter of 2020-21 could prove even more expensive, as the COVID19 pandemic continues to force much of the world to practice social distancing. That means many professionals are still working from home full-time, while even those who aren’t are no doubt spending more of their free time at home.

All those hours spent at home figure to increase reliance on heaters this winter, which means heating bills are likely to go up as the temperatures go down.

Finding ways to save on heating costs will no doubt prove a priority for many homeowners this winter, and the following are some ways to do just

that.

• Add insulation. Extra insulation throughout the house can dramatically reduce home heating (and cooling) costs.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, adding insulation in attics, crawl spaces and basement rim joists can help homeowners save as much as 15 percent on heating costs.

• Lower the temperature on your water heater. Another way to trim your energy bill this winter is to lower the temperature on your water heater. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that, for every 10 F reduction in temperature on their water heaters, homeowners can save between 3 and 5 percent on their water heating costs.

• Close the flue on your fireplace. Fireplaces can

keep a home’s inhabitants warm in winter, but only when they’re in use.

When they’re not being used, fireplaces can allow heat to escape a home. When the fireplace is not being used, close the flue to prevent heat from escaping the house.

Keeping all windows and doors closed throughout the day is another way to prevent unnecessary heat loss.

• Have your HVAC system serviced before winter begins. Inefficient HVAC systems cost homeowners considerable amounts of money each year. Annual maintenance performed by a certified HVAC professional can ensure filters are clean and operating at peak efficiency, saving homeowners the costly trouble of having to turn up the thermostat to overcome dirty systems.

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OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Get ahead of chimney repair, maintenance this fall Metro Creative Services

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oodburning fireplaces or fuel stoves can add warmth and ambiance to a home. These appliances are particularly coveted in the cooler months when people spend more time indoors. Maintenance is necessary in order for fireplaces and stoves to function safely, and that upkeep must include paying close attention to the functionality of the chimney.

Chimneys are designed to last for decades. Cracks and spalling in brick chimneys are common concerns that can cause significant damage if left unchecked.

C h i mney maint ena n ce i n vol ves more than cleaning the flue. Rather than running the risk of costly repairs, which can cost several thousand dollars, homeowners can take some simple steps to keep their chimneys in tip-top shape. Certain com-

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ponents of chimney maintenance are do-it-yourself tasks, while others may be better left to the professionals.

• Start from the inside and ensure

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that dampers are working properly. When using fireplaces and other appliances, dampers need to be open to allow smoke to vent outside; otherwise, smoke will be trapped in the home and could lead to carbon monoxide buildup. Dampers need to be fixed or replaced if they are not operational. Replacement fireplace dampers should be snug and not have any gaps, states Vertical Chimney Care.

• Conduct a visual inspection of the chimney to check for any cracks or spalling. Spalling is the wearing away of masonry due to water, weather and time. If enough of the material erodes, that erosion can adversely affect the structural integrity of the chimney.

Some repairs can be made by patching up cracks or replacing missing bricks. Chimney tuckpointing is the process of repairing mortar.

• Think about waterproofing the chimney to prevent damage. A water

sealant applied to the outside of the chimney can prevent moisture from breaking down the masonry.

• Inspect and replace the chimney cap if it is worn out. A chimney cap is a contraption that sits atop the chimney to allow the smoke to vent while also preventing critters and water from going inside the flue, helping to extend the flue life. The chimney cap attaches to the flue liner, so outside dimensions should be taken to ensure the cap is the right size for the chimney.

• Have the chimney swept. Sweeping helps remove the soot and debris that clings to the inside of the flue, known as creosote. The amount of time the fireplace is used will determine how often the chimney must be cleaned.

Generally speaking, the chimney liner needs to be cleaned if it has 1/8-inch or more of soot.

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OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

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2020 FALL HOME & AUTO

OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

the Brand” 2601 W. SECOND, ROSWELL • 575-625-1000 WWW.RLCHEVROLET.COM “Ride for the Brand”

WE BUY YOUR CARS!

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HENRY

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CHRIS

JOE

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8 2020 FALL HOME & AUTO

OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Factors to consider to maintain winter safety Metro Creative Services

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any changes are to be expected as fall gives way to winter.

Temperatures drop for much of the country, and depending on where one lives, snow, wind and ice are to be expected.

As beautiful as snow-covered landscapes can be, winter presents unique hazards, notably slippery roads and surfaces. Chilly temperatures also can put people at risk if they spend prolonged periods outdoors unprotected.

According to the insurance company Carsurance, more than 156,000 crashes occur annually due to icy roads.

Roughly 17 percent of all vehicle crashes happen in winter conditions. Winter hazards are not exclusive to driving, however. That means winter safety involves a consideration of a host of factors.

1. Changing visibility While slippery surfaces may contribute to some accidents, visibility can quickly change with winter weather.

Blowing snow can contribute to whiteout conditions. In addition, fog can be hazardous to drivers, aviators and mariners and contributes to thousands of travel accidents every year, advises the National Weather Service. It’s important to slow down, leave plenty of distance, use your low-beam headlights, and recognize when it may be safest to pull over, such as when visibility is significantly compromised.

2. Snow removal Shoveling snow or using a snowblower are common wintertime activities. Yet strenuous levels of activity in cold temperatures could put people at risk of heart attack, particularly if they are not acclimated to physical activity. Always warm up prior to shoveling snow to prepare the body for exercise.

Go slowly and take frequent breaks.

Avoid twisting and tossing snow over your shoulder, which can contribute to back injuries.

3. Carbon monoxide poisoning Winter weather means turning up the heat or doing more indoor cooking.

Carbon monoxide is produced through the burning of fuel in various forms, including stoves, engines, gas ranges, portable generators, and grills. The National Safety Council says carbon

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monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can go undetected as it builds up in enclosed spaces. Never warm up the car inside of a contained garage. Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters indoors, and have furnaces, water heaters and other fuel-burning appli-

ances checked and serviced by a qualified technician annually. Be sure that carbon monoxide alarms are on every floor of the home, and take it seriously if the alarm goes off.

4. Black ice Black ice is a common winter foe.

Black ice forms when temperatures rise above freezing during the day, melting any snow on the ground and causing surfaces to become wet. If the temperature drops once more while the ground is wet, a thin, transparent sheet of ice can form. Black ice also may occur if moisture in the air condenses and forms dew or fog, and then the temperature drops below freezing, says the National Weather Service. Black ice gets its name because it looks black on asphalt roads. However, it also can form on sidewalks and overpasses, or spots shaded by trees or other objects.

Slowing down and exercising extreme caution are essential.

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2020 FALL HOME & AUTO 9

OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Signs your gutters are in need of repair Metro Creative Services

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all is a great time to tackle projects around the house. The weather each fall allows homeowners to make improvements to their homes’ exteriors without worrying about extreme heat or cold, while interior projects like painting are made easier because homeowners can open the windows to allow for proper ventilation.

Fall also marks a great time to prepare for upcoming projects that can make winter work that much easier.

For example, fall is a great time to take stock of your gutters so you can address any issues before leaves begin to fall or the first snowstorm touches down. Compromised gutters can contribute to water issues in basements and adversely affect a home’s foundation if not addressed immediately, so it behooves homeowners to learn the signs that gutters are in need of repair

or replacement.

• Gutters hanging off the home: Gutters were once installed predominantly with spikes. However, many industry professionals now install gutters with

hanger brackets. Why the change?

Spikes loosen over time, leading to the gutters hanging off the home. That can contribute to serious issues if left untreated. Gutters hanging off the home need not necessarily be replaced, but rather secured to the home, ideally with hanger brackets instead of spikes.

Brackets hook into the front of the gutter and are then screwed into the fascia of a home. A professional who specializes in gutter repair can perform this task relatively quickly, and it’s an inexpensive yet highly effective solution.

• Gutter separation: Gutters that are no longer fastened together can leak and contribute to issues that affect the home’s foundation, siding and appearance. Clogs and the accumulation of debris can cause gutters to separate because they are not designed to hold too much weight. Replacement of separated gutters may or may not be necessary depending on how big the problem

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is and the condition of the existing gutters. If replacement is not necessary, separated gutters may be remedied by securing the joints, another relatively simple and inexpensive fix.

• Peeling exterior paint: Paint that appears to be peeling off of your home may indicate that water is seeping over the edge of the gutter closest to your home. When that happens, water is coming down the side of the house, causing the paint to peel. In such instances, replacing the gutters is often necessary.

• Basement flooding: Not all signs of deteriorating gutters are outside a home. Many a homeowner has been flummoxed by flooding in their basements, and such flooding can be caused by aging, ineffective gutters.

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OCTOBER 2020 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Prepare and maintain vehicles for harsh weather Metro Creative Services

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s the seasons change, motorists must take steps to safeguard their vehicles, especially when the season changes from fall to winter.

Each winter, many vehicles are subjected to sub-zero temperatures, snowfall and icy roads, and such conditions can take their toll on vehicles over time.

Taking steps to prepare vehicles for winter weather is a vital step that can make cars and trucks safer for drivers and their passengers.

Battery Old batteries should be replaced before winter begins. Without a strong, properly functioning battery, engines cannot turn over. Most batteries last between three and five years. However, extreme cold can compromise batteries, especially those that have been around awhile. Batteries are made up of acid and water, and cold temperatures can freeze the water, thereby affecting bat-

tery performance. According to AAA’s Automotive Research Center, at 32 F, the average battery loses 35 percent of its strength.

Newer batteries can be protected by starting the vehicle each day to warm up and recharge the battery. Let the car run for at least 10 minutes if you cannot take an extended drive.

Exterior maintenance Keeping a car waxed and sealed can help maintain a durable exterior finish.

This includes not only the paint, but the rubber and vinyl parts of the car’s exterior.

Winter is a good time to switch to a heavy-duty synthetic wax that can shield against water and road salts.

High-quality sealants can be used on bumpers, trim and rubber door seals as added protection. Speak with an automotive retailer or even the car dealership if you are unsure which products will make your car’s parts most durable for winter weather.

Do not stop washing your car just because the weather is cold. Slushy, wet roads and snow-melting salts can speed up the formation of rust or other decay on the undercarriage of the vehicle. These materials will need to be periodically cleaned off. Flush the underside of the vehicle whenever possible, taking advantage of any dry, slightly warmer days.

Tire pressure According to the automotive retailer Pep Boys, vehicle tires lose a pound of air pressure for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Many modern cars will alert to changes in air pressure, and drivers should be diligent in maintaining the proper tire pressure. Fuel economy as well as handling ability can decline when tires are not inflated properly. Tires can be refilled at many gas stations for little cost.

Wipers Visibility is key in hazardous weather conditions, and keeping the windshield

clean is a priority. This means ensuring there is enough windshield wiper fluid in the car and that it is a product that will not freeze.

Wiper blades can freeze and crack in the winter. Older blades may be more susceptible to damage. It’s a worthy investment to replace existing wiper blades at the start of each winter.

When vehicles are parked, pull the wipers off of the windshield to safeguard them from sticking and cracking.

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