Monday, November 18, 2013

Turkey Trots and Fun Runs


November is not only a great month to view some spectacular changes in foliage, but it also provides some great opportunities to get out and be active in the community. Turkey Trots and fun runs are happening all over the county. Some of these events are just for fun, while others are coordinated to support local charities and drives.
Here is a quick recap of three local events that may be of interest:
25th Annual Anne Arundel Community College Turkey Trot
Who: Open to public, but you must be able to finish in an hour
What: Timed 5k and one mile jaunt
Why: Help support the community college and replenish the campus food pantry
When: November 27th, early registration rates end today
Where: Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold
Extras: Refreshments provided, no pets or bikes and a free t-shirt for the first 300 participants
More information – www.aacc.edu/healthfitness
Stride for SPAN Turkey Trot
Who: Open to public
What: Timed 5k Race and 1 mile fun walk
Why: Help support SPAN – Serving People Across Neighborhoods
When: November 23rd, registration closes November 20th
Where: Kinder Farm Park
Extras: Prizes for top 3 finishers in specified age groups
More information – www.spanhelps.org
Dashing Through the Show 5k Run
Who: Open to the public, but you must be able to finish in an hour
What: 5k Fun Run with the Annapolis Striders Running Club
Why: Proceeds benefit Anne Arundel County Medical Center
When: November 22nd
Where: Sandy Point State Park
Extras: No bikes, headphones, pets, baby joggers. Enjoy the light show at your own pace.
More information: www.annapolisstriders.org
Get outside, maybe meet some new people and maybe help make someones November a great one. 


Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN

"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"
Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860 

Your referrals are always a great compliment. 
 

Monday, November 11, 2013

Home Defense


With fall comes cool mornings, changing landscapes and more of the “keep us warm” cooking. Fall also can bring opportunities to do some simple home maintenance that can help prevent future costly repairs.
Here are some maintenance tips that all require minimal effort and can definitely provide some comfort for you as the homeowner.
-          Hose check – Remove garden hoses to prevent water back up and potential freezing/cracking of pipes. While you are at it, shut off supply lines to exterior faucets to prevent any slow (and possibly costly) leaks.
-          Take care of your sprinkler system – Turn off the main supply valve to the system and then open your drain valves to completely empty out the system. This can also be a good time to remove sprinkler heads, drain and replace.
-          Seal it up – Grab some color matching caulk and take a tour around the exterior of your house. Take time to seal up cracks between trim and siding, window and door frames and where wires and pipes enter the house. Not only will this prevent water from entering the house, but it can also seal up costly air leaks.
-          Gutter review – Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can turn into some very costly repairs. Clean out gutters of any debris and take time to tighten any gutter hangers, downspouts and replace as needed. Also – downspouts need to extend at least 3 feet away from the foundation of the house.
-          Proof your roof – Give your roof a thorough review. Damaged or missing shingles should be replaced immediately. Pay special attention to any type of growth as this can be a definite sign of possible decay or rot underneath.
-          Furnace inspection – Fall is a great time to get your furnace checked out. Consider getting on a regular maintenance plan as this can not only save you some money but it will also ensure that you are on the top of the list for check-ups. Do not forget to replace your filters while you are at it.
-          Trim the trees – Fall not only brings changes to the colors of leaves, but it also empties the leaves of the summer growth. This is the best time to prune up everything to keep growth at least a few feet away from the house. Doing this not only prevents water runoff onto the house, but it can also be beneficial in preventing damage to the house during times of high winds.
Although this list is not all inclusive, taking the time to check these off of your to do list will give you some comfort in knowing that you are being proactive instead of reactive – which can directly translate to cost savings. Your home will also appreciate it!
Erik Hart
REALTOR®, GREEN

"Happy, Humble, Hardworking"
Severna Park Office
Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.
(O)
410-544-4000 (C)443-889-6860 
 Your referrals are always a great compliment.