by Scott Frakes, CMI® | Feb 21, 2025 | Real Estate
Last month, I inspected two nearly identical homes in Gaylord—both built in 1995, both priced around $300,000. The first house felt cold and drafty despite the furnace running constantly. The second? Warm, comfortable, and quiet even though it was 15 degrees outside....
by Scott Frakes, CMI® | Jan 24, 2025 | Real Estate
Buying a house in winter in Northern Michigan gives you something spring and summer buyers don’t get: the home under real conditions. When temperatures drop below zero and snow piles up, a property’s weaknesses show themselves. Poorly insulated attics,...
by Scott Frakes, CMI® | Jul 19, 2024 | Home Maintenance, Real Estate
Ensuring proper grading around a home is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the property and safeguarding its inhabitants. Grading, the slope of the ground around a building, directly influences water flow and drainage patterns, making it a fundamental aspect of...
by Scott Frakes, CMI® | Jun 20, 2024 | Real Estate
Investing in a rental property can be a lucrative venture, but it’s essential to make informed decisions to ensure your investment pays off. Here are some key factors to consider when buying a property for rental income. Location, Location, Location The...
by Scott Frakes, CMI® | Nov 10, 2023 | Home Maintenance, Real Estate
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility, improving the energy efficiency of your home is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. Not only does it help reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also lead to substantial...
by Scott Frakes, CMI® | Mar 16, 2019 | Uncategorized, Home Inspection, Real Estate
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in March 2019 as “Historical Buildings and Energy Efficiency” and has been substantially revised and expanded in July 2025 to provide current information and comprehensive guidance for historic...
