Archive for October 30th, 2009

Is Your Garage Door Opener Leaving Your Home Unsecured?

Friday, October 30th, 2009
Emily Siliwon-Curb Appeal CSI Garage Doors asked:


Many people have had their garage door openers for 10 years, or more. What they may not realize is that it offers a discrete and easy access point for anyone with a laptop and a remote transmitter. Take a look at the following video to see just how easy it is.

Everything is pretty simple. The remote used in the video is one of the most common older models in use. Many different brands used the same technology as this one. Most of these units are over 10 years in age, but there are plenty still in use out there. Code cracking software is easily obtained by anyone with an internet connection.

The people in these homes may not realize their door is going up or down. Even worse, people in the home may hear it opening, but dismiss the event as a family member arriving home. Using a method like this, an intruder could enter and exit your home without your knowledge.

You can still protect your home with a few common sense measures. Always keep the door from the garage to the interior of your home locked. This should be something everyone does at night and when away. Since your remote is usually clipped to the visor, make sure to lock the car when parking in the driveway. It may also be time to consider a new opener if yours is outdated.  Newer models usually have more up to date security and safety features.

In order to determine whether or not your model is using old school technology, take a look at the manual that came with it. (Many manufacturers offer an online version of their owner’s manuals.) Make sure it has some type of “rolling code” technology. For example, LiftMaster brand units use Security+ rolling code technology. Any models with this newer type of remote control will not open using the system used in the video. Most other manufacturers will have a similar technology in their models.

If you do have an older model garage door opener, you may consider replacing it. They can usually be installed professionally starting at around $250, or can be purchased at a local retail store. If you do decide to start shopping, prepare to be impressed by the abundance of motor sizes, drive types, warranties, and various types of accessories that are available. You may want to call a few reputable installers in your area to get an idea about which of the many types would be right for you. Most companies will provide you with an idea about pricing over the phone, as well.

Even if you can’t afford to replace your old opener, there are still steps you can take to make the garage more secure. Some models have a “Lock” function which blocks any remotes or keyless entry from being used. Enabling this option will cause nothing but the wall button to function.  Worst case you can always dis-engage the motor. Usually this is accomplished by pulling the red cord that hangs overhead.  Just remember to lock and unlock your keylock on the garage door, especially before re-engaging and using the opener again. If you don’t have any kind of manual lock available, a simple lock for this purpose can be purchased at most hardware stores. Of course, last but not least, always keep the door from the garage into your home locked.

For more information, including links to manufacturer sites, please visit our website.



DION

Why Should I Sell My House And Rent It Back?

Friday, October 30th, 2009
Laura Rupert Garcia asked:


Do you want to stay in the same home you live in now, but you are having problems paying the mortgage? This happens to many people and they unfortunately choose to move away from their beloved home to get away from the high mortgage payment. However, there is an option for you to sell to rent back. This is basically you selling your home so that you may then rent it back. This is a great option for many people who want to sell house fast for financial reasons yet continue living in the same home. There are several reasons why you might want to sell your house and then rent it back.

Reason #1 Financial

The biggest reason you would want to sell your home and then rent it back would be financial. In many instances, people find they are unable to make their house payment. In this situation, there are not many options. One is to simply quit paying the mortgage and let a foreclosure take place. Or, you could continue sacrificing everything to pay the mortgage yet have no money to afford other things. Selling the house to rent back allows you to stay in the home without being financially worried about it.

Reason #2 Comfort

Another reason to sell your home fast is so you can continue living there without the financial responsibility. This results in you and your family continuing your comfortable lifestyle. This is definitely one of the reasons why UK residents continue to sell and ret back their homes. It is really a convenience to sell the home yet continue living there on a monthly basis.

Reason #3 Embarrassment

Nobody likes to talk about his or her financial situation in front of others. That is especially so for those who are not financially well off. However, if you sell your home many will question why and others will simply assume it is for the financial responsibility. You can quietly sell your home quickly and easily and avoid the embarrassment by continuing to live in the same home.

These are just a few of the reasons why you should sell your home and rent it back. It really is a great opportunity for you if you find that making the monthly mortgage payments is not feasible for you. Consider the options offered by Sell My House Fast to find the best option for you.

Remember, many people worldwide are finding that they can’t afford their mortgages. If you find this happening to you don’t despair because there are options available to you. Act sooner, rather than later, to ensure you are able to sell your home and save your credit! Then you will be in a better position in the future should you want to buy a home again when you are financially able to afford it. Recognize you need help as soon as possible in order to sell your home and minimize your losses rather than potentially losing your home to the bank!



WILMER