Buying or Selling a Home? What You Need to Know About Pet Allergens

Cats and dogs produce allergens that pose a health threat to certain individuals.

 

Modes of Transmission

  

Cat dander consists of microscopic pieces of cat skin that have dried, flaked off and become airborne. Shed dander can land on and stick to bedding, curtains, carpeting, and other surfaces, including people's skin and clothing. It contains Fel D1, a glycoprotein found in the cat's sebaceous glands, located under their skin, and, to a lesser extent, it is found in cats' saliva and urine. Fel D1 can cause rapid allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Unlike cats, the dogs’ allergen, Can F1, is found in higher concentrations in their saliva than in their sebaceous glands.

Facts and Figures

• More people are allergic to cats than they are to dogs. This may be due to the severity of the allergen Fe D1, or because dogs are generally bathed regularly, whereas cats are not. 
• Between 6 and 10 million Americans are allergic to cats, and approximately one-third of them have cats in their homes.
• Animal dander, hair, and other organic debris in homes can also result in a significant increase in the level of dust mites, mite feces and other allergenic insect parts.
• Allergens may be found months or years after a pet has been removed from a house. 
• Pet-borne allergens commonly infiltrate places where pets have never been present, such as schools, workplaces, and other public spaces. Since dander allergens are sticky, they can be transported to these places on the clothing of pet owners.
• Animal hair, despite popular belief, is not considered to be a significant allergen. However, hair can collect pollen, dust, mold, and other allergens.  
• There are no "non-allergenic" breeds of dogs or cats. Some breeds of both species, however, are believed to be hypoallergenic; anecdotal reports claim that the Siberian, rex and sphynx cat breeds are less likely to provoke an allergic attack than most other cats. Similarly, dog breeds, such as poodles and schnauzers, have been reported to be less allergenic. None of these claims has been validated scientifically.

Cat and Dog Allergy Symptoms

  

These include: 

• itching;
• sneezing and congestion;
• redness, itching, swelling and watering of the eyes;
• post-nasal drip, itching or hoarseness, and the need to clear the throat often;
• itchy rashes or hives;
• itching, plugging or popping in the ears; and
• coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, frequent bronchitis, and a shortness of breath.

How to Test If a Cat or Dog Has Been in a Building

  

Pets are forbidden by many lease agreements, which may then be violated by tenants who secretly house cats or dogs. Also, cats may visit a residence at night to forage for food or gain shelter. The following detection methods may be used:

• Smell for the animal. If the cat is an indoor cat, a litter box must have been used somewhere in the building, and they almost always produce an odor. Even after they are removed, the smell from a litter box may linger for quite some time. If a male cat was present in the building and he has urinated on or "marked" any areas, the odor will be very strong.
• Look for hair. Somewhere in the building, especially where the cat likes to sleep or rest, there will be large amounts of hair.

• Use a blacklight  to check for pet urine.

Cleaning Tips for Buildings Previously Occupied by Cats and Dogs

Inspectors may be asked about pet-allergen cleanup by clients who are looking to buy a home but are concerned about the air quality in their prospective new home. The following suggestions may be offered:

• Obtain a thorough, professional duct cleaning.
• Commercially steam-clean, professionally dry-clean, or use very hot water to launder clothing.
• Wash and use a HEPA vacuum for interior surfaces. Note that ordinary vacuum cleaners, which cause allergenic particles to become airborne, are ineffective and may even worsen the problem for sensitive occupants.

Advice for Clients with Pets

A combination of approaches—medical control of symptoms, good housecleaning and planning—is most likely to succeed in allowing an allergic person to live with pets. For allergic clients who won’t give up their pets, inspectors can pass on the following tips:

• Take allergy medication. Most fall under one of the following three categories:
  • antihistamines, such as over-the-counter Claritin or Benadryl, or the prescription drugs Allegra or Zyrtec;
  • decongestants, such as OTC Sudafed or prescription Allegra-D; or 
  • prescription steroids, such as Flonase or Nasonex sprays.
• Get allergy shots. These are not always effective, however, and completing treatment can take years.
• Bathe your pet on a weekly basis. Cats can get used to being bathed, but it’s critical to only use products labeled for them.
• Keep the pet outdoors as much as possible.
• Allergic individuals should not hug, pet or kiss their pets.
• Have your pet spayed or neutered. The allergen produced by a cat is highest in unaltered males and lowest in altered males.
• Remove clothing worn after grooming or playing with pets.
• Litter boxes should be placed in an area unconnected to the air supply to the rest of the home, and should be avoided by allergic individuals.
• Design a cleaning regimen that can substantially reduce those levels, ranging from discarding materials to HEPA-vacuuming to washing certain surfaces.
• Maintain adequate ventilation.
• Remove as much carpet from the home as is feasible. The less dander-catching furnishings, such as cloth curtains and blinds, the better.
• Clean frequently and thoroughly to remove dust and dander, washing articles such as couch covers and pillows, curtains and pet beds.
• Create an "allergy-free" zone in your home—preferably, the allergic person's bedroom—and strictly prohibit the pet's access to it. Consider using impermeable covers for the mattress and pillows.     

• Keep pets off furniture, especially upholstered furniture where dander can be easily transferred.

Nick Gromicko, FOUNDER. http://www.nachi.org
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) is the world's most elite, non-profit inspection association.
President, ComInspect, www.cominspect.com
Director, Master Inspector Certification Board, www.certifiedmasterinspector.org
Author, 15 books and Co-Host of  http://www.NACHI.TV

And a note From Judy: If you have a question about buying or selling a home in Fairfield County, and are in need of an Realtor to represent you, I invite you to contact me, and if you have an idea for a topic that you would like to see on The CT Realty Blog, please include it in the "Post a Comment" section link below this post. We appreciate the feedback and look forward to providing you with the best real estate content, advice and service in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Connecticut Financing Update and Today's Mortgage Rates 3/30/12

Mortgages Rates broke a sideways streak to move lower yesterday, but are right back to their 'sideways ways' today!  This keeps the Conventional 30yr Fixed Best-Execution Rate at 4.0%, although 3.875% quotes are viable, even if they don't necessarily constitute the most efficient combination of closing costs and payment for most scenarios.

This raises an interesting point regarding "efficiency."  What is the "most efficient combination" of closing costs and payment?  Ultimately that will depend on several factors that can vary between scenarios and even between lenders.  There's always a COST associated with moving to a lower interest rate, and although rates move in linear 0.125% increments among most lenders, the COSTS to move between those rates can vary greatly.  
Right now, it's relatively cheap to go from 4.25% to 4.125% or from 4.125% to 4.0%, but costs increase sharply for the next eighth of a point lower.  That's why we note 4.0% as the most efficient combination, even if 3.875% is doable.  Above all though,  we'd continue to advocate that you assess multiple options to see which fit best for your own sense of efficiency. 

 
Despite recent improvements and today's sideways move, the current market dynamics underlying mortgages suggest a broader range of 3.875%-4.25%.  This range has persisted since August, and we tend to feel more defensive when rate offerings are nearer the lower end of any range of rates, especially one that has lasted this long.  

In other words, we're in favor of assessing your options based on this one moment in time to avoid the risk of being lulled into a false sense of security by recent improvements and stability.   We're not totally convinced the sense of security would indeed be "false," but the pace of economic events does increase noticeably into the end of the week, providing more opportunities for volatile market movements to have an effect on mortgage rates.

Today's BEST-EXECUTION Rates

30-year fixed 4.00% APR-4.050% 0 points

20 year fixed-4.00% APR-4.036% 0 points

15 year fixed-3.375% APR-3.458% 0 points

10 year fixed-3.250% APR-3.342% 0 points

5/1 ARM-3.125% APR-3.419% 0 points

7/1 ARM-3.250% APR-3.489% 0 points

FHA

30 year fixed-3.875% APR-3.934% 0 points

15 year fixed-3.125% APR-3.230% 0 points

Jumbo- over $576,000 (Fairfield County)

30 year fixed-4.125% APR 4.240% 0 points

15 year fixed-3.500% APR 3.574% 0 points

5/1 ARM-3.250% APR 3.540% 0 points

7/1 ARM-3.625% APR 3.940% 0 points

Pat Leary is  a mortgage banker with over 12 years experience as a lending specialist in Connecticut. Her passion is to guide her clients through the mortgage process. Pat takes pride on providing great customer service, through communication, trust and integrity, and strives to offer the best mortgage products and service in the industry. We're confident that you will receive the personal attention that you deserve. As a leading Mortgage Banker in Connecticut, Pat  is responsible for structuring your financing with the expertise to answer any questions you may have on rates, fees and products.

Pat Leary

NMLS #99279
Atlantic Home Loans
830 Post Road East

Westport CT 06880
203-645-1037 cell
203-691-9788 ext 226
1-203-413-5647 fax

And a note From Judy: If you have a question about buying or selling Real Estate in Fairfield County, and are in need of an Realtor to represent you, I invite you to contact me, and if you have an idea for a topic that you would like to see on The CT Realty Blog, please include it in the "Post a Comment" section link below this post. We appreciate the feedback and look forward to providing you with the best real estate content, advice and service in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Moving to, from or within CT? Don't Forget the Little Things

You're getting ready to move. You've thought through just about everything. Boxes? Check. Movers? Check. Labels? Check. Moving supplies? Check.

So why do you have that nagging feeling in the back of your mind that you’ve forgotten something? Maybe it’s because you, like so many of us, have neglected to transfer utilities, mail, and records – all those little things you depend on. Start dealing with these things now to help ease your move.

Transfer Utilities
Transferring utilities early will relieve a big pain point of moving. And you won’t have to use a flashlight to unpack!

What you need to remember:
·    Make a list of all your utilities – everything from electricity to cable.
·    Notify each company of your moving dates. If you’re moving out of town, you may need to find providers in your new area. It’s a good idea to leave the main utilities on for an extra day after your move-out date just in case something unexpected happens. And turn on the utilities in your new home a day early to make sure they’re up and running when you arrive.

·    Create a utilities checklist:
·    Electricity
·    Gas
·    Propane
·    Cable/satellite
·    Internet service
·    Home phone
·    Cell phone service
·    Trash pickup
·    Recycling pickup
·    Sewer
·    Water
·    Security system

Change Your Address
Sure, about 90% of the mail you get is junk. But you’ll need to change your address with the United States Postal Service for the 10% of mail that you actually want. What you need to remember:
·    Go to a post office or visit the United States Postal Service website to fill out a change of address form.
·    It usually takes about 7–10 business days for the change to take effect, so get your request in early.

Notify Others of Your Address Change
Great! You’ve filled out the change of address form. Now you just have to let people know about your new address. What you need to remember:
·    Start a list of people, magazines, organizations, and businesses you receive mail from each day.
·    Send out a handful of notices daily with your new address so you’re not overwhelmed trying to do it after moving day.

Deal With the Bank
You’ve been reserving movers, buying supplies, and starting up your utilities, so you’re probably already thinking about money. But have you thought about what to do with your bank accounts? What you need to remember:
·    Find out if your current bank has a branch near your new home. If not, open an account with a local bank there.
·    Update your online bill pay. When you move, your account information for your utilities will change. If you don’t update your online bill pay, you may end up sending money to accounts that no longer exist.
·    Pay a visit to the ATM. You’re going to need some cash to tip the movers, buy food, and pay for other incidentals.

Transfer Records
Taking the time to gather important records now can save you the pain of having to wait for your medical chart to transfer over while you’re flipping through magazines in your new doctor’s waiting room. What you need to remember:
·    Compile medical and dental records. If you’re moving to a different city or state, ask your doctors if they can refer you to a new health-care provider.
·    Arrange to have school records transferred to your children’s new school district and/or daycare.
·    Get copies of any legal and financial records you need.
·    Arrange for veterinarian records to be transferred.

You may be focused on packing, but you’re not just moving your stuff: You’re moving your life. Transferring all of life’s daily essentials is key to getting your life in your new home off to a good start.

Article submitted by Brennan Purdy of State Farm Insurance

My vision is to be an insurance professional whose actions are driven by keeping the customer's best interest as my primary goal. My staff will treat all my customers in a caring, friendly, and professional manner. My office will provide warm, efficient, and seamless services to our customers at all times. I expect my business to be comprised of knowledgeable, multiple-line customers who see my office as their first and best choice for all their insurance and financial service needs

For more information on these and other home safety tips, stop by my office or visit www.brennanpurdy.com. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bethel. 203-798-7300.                   211 Greenwood Avenue , Bethel, CT 06801

 And a note From Judy: If you have a question about buying or selling Real Estate in Fairfield County, and are in need of an Realtor to represent you, I invite you to contact me, and if you have an idea for a topic that you would like to see on The CT Realty Blog, please include it in the "Post a Comment" section link below this post. We appreciate the feedback and look forward to providing you with the best real estate content, advice and service in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

The Purpose of Your Final Walk Through, and What to Look For

The time to conduct a Final Walk Through on your new home is just before you close on the home that you are about to buy. Your attorney and/or Realtor should explain the process and importance of conducting a final walk through of the property, and you should NEVER waive that right.

A Final walk through is conducted just before you close on the home  and is done for the sole purpose of inspecting the home  prior to purchasing it, and ensuring that it is in the SAME condition as it was when you originally placed the offer on it, reasonable wear and tear excepted. Look to make sure that items that were to be included in the sale are present, and that items that were NOT to be included have been removed.

The reason for this last minute look  is because it is much easier to rectify a problem  (if there is one) BEFORE you purchase the home, rather than after you actually close on it. In most cases, once you get the keys, that's it. Period.

A Final Walk through, (or final inspection, as it is sometimes called) should also include the following:

• Check appliances to make sure they are working

• Check the thermostat(s), the heating system and Cooling system (but check the C/A only if the outside temperature has been at least 65 degrees for the past three consecutive days)

• Check all faucets- run the hot and cold water, make sure they arre operating and that there are no new leaks and the temperature of each is appropriate. Check drainage while you are at it.  Run the tub, shower, toilets and make sure they are working properly.

• Check to see all the lights and switches are operating properly.  Smoke detectors, too.

• Check to make sure the cabinets have been emptied.

• Check for any paint cans that you DO NOT WANT, or any other materials that could be considered hazardous and would require a special trip and/or permit from the town dump to dispose of properly.

• If there were any obvious repairs that the seller was to complete prior to closing, check to make sure that they were in fact done, and done properly. You should (or your attorney should)  already have  the accompanying paperwork.

Each house will vary slightly as to what you may  want to look for, and this is just a representative list. If you ever feel the need to have a professional building inspector to accompany you  to your walk through, most will do so for a nominal fee.

And a note From Judy: If you have a question about buying or selling a home in Fairfield County, and are in need of an Realtor to represent you, I invite you to contact me, and if you have an idea for a topic that you would like to see on The CT Realty Blog, please include it in the "Post a Comment" section link below this post. We appreciate the feedback and look forward to providing you with the best real estate content, advice and service in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Did You Miss Our Show About Real Estate on WSHU radio? Listen to it here.

In case you missed our show, WSHU posted a link to listen to it on their website. Just look for the "Play Button" under my picture and set the volume on your computer speakers. We'd love your feedback.

Here's the link to the page.
Fairfield County Focus on WSHU

And a note From Judy: If you have a question about buying or selling a home in Fairfield County, and are in need of an Realtor to represent you, I invite you to contact me, and if you have an idea for a topic that you would like to see on The CT Realty Blog, please include it in the "Post a Comment" section link below this post. We appreciate the feedback and look forward to providing you with the best real estate content, advice and service in Fairfield County, Connecticut.