Christina Mullins

License#: 02177340

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Aging Homes: What to Expect at 20, 40, and 60+ Years Old

By Christina L. Mullins - March 16, 2026
Every home ages, but not every buyer or seller understands what that aging actually means. Homes built 20, 40, or 60-plus years ago each come with predictable maintenance patterns, system lifespans, and renovation considerations. Understanding what is normal for a home’s age helps buyers avoid unnecessary fear and helps sellers prepare more effectively for inspections and negotiations. 20-Year-

Renovation Mistakes That Kill Deals During Escrow

By Christina L. Mullins - March 09, 2026
Most deals do not fall apart because of price. They fall apart because something discovered during escrow makes a buyer lose confidence. Renovations—especially recent ones—are one of the biggest sources of escrow trouble. When work is rushed, poorly documented, or improperly executed, it can quickly turn into renegotiations, delays, or a cancelled contract. Understanding the renovation mistakes

Top Inspection Issues and What They Actually Mean for Buyers and Sellers

By Christina L. Mullins - March 02, 2026
Home inspections often feel like a turning point in a transaction. Buyers worry about unexpected costs, while sellers fear deal-breaking discoveries. In reality, most inspection issues are common, manageable, and misunderstood. Knowing what inspection findings actually mean—and which ones truly matter—helps both sides negotiate intelligently instead of emotionally. Roof Issues: Age vs. Failure

Pre-Listing Repairs That Pay Off: A Contractor–Realtor’s Checklist

By Christina L. Mullins - February 23, 2026
When preparing a home for sale, not all repairs are created equal. Some improvements directly increase buyer confidence and sale price, while others drain time and money without delivering a return. Knowing which repairs actually pay off before listing can help sellers focus their budget where it matters most. Start With Safety and Functionality Buyers and inspectors focus first on whether a h

How to Read a Home Inspection Report Without Panicking

By Christina L. Mullins - February 16, 2026
For many buyers and sellers, the home inspection report is the most stressful part of the transaction. The document is often long, detailed, and filled with photos and technical language that can make even a well-maintained home look like a disaster. The truth is this: almost every home inspection report looks alarming at first glance. Understanding how to read it properly can save you from unnec

How the Cheapest Bid Can Turn into the Biggest Project

By Christina L. Mullins - February 09, 2026
When homeowners receive multiple contractor estimates, the lowest price often feels like the safest choice. On paper, it looks like savings. In reality, the cheapest estimate frequently leads to higher costs, delays, and resale issues down the line. As both a real estate professional and someone who understands construction, I see this mistake repeatedly—especially when homes are being prepared f

When to Renovate Before Selling--& When Not To

By Christina L. Mullins - February 02, 2026
Smart Decision-Making for Homeowners and Sellers Not every home needs renovations before hitting the market. The decision depends on location, condition, competition, and pricing strategy. When You Should Renovate The home is significantly outdated for the neighborhood Competing listings are updated Simple upgrades will dramatically improve appearance Repairs are needed to pa

Not all Fixes are Good Fixes--How to Know the Difference

By Christina L. Mullins - January 26, 2026
Helping Buyers Recognize What’s Well Built and What’s Just Covered Up Not all renovations are equal. Some look great in photos but fall apart under closer inspection. Learning to spot shortcuts helps buyers understand the true condition of a home. Signs of Quality Work Consistent, level tile lines Even flooring transitions Smooth drywall without waves Straight cabinet install

Permits

By Christina L. Mullins - January 19, 2026
Protecting Your Investment and Avoiding Future Problems Permits ensure that work meets safety and building standards. Buyers and inspectors look closely at whether improvements were properly permitted. Common Projects That Require Permits Structural changes Additions Major electrical upgrades New HVAC installations Water heater replacements Plumbing reroutes Ro

Flipping? Here's Some Stuff to Consider

By Christina L. Mullins - January 12, 2026
Practical Strategy Combined With Construction Realities Flipping looks easy on TV, but profit depends on disciplined analysis and accurate construction planning. Know Your Numbers Successful flips start with strict acquisition formulas. Always account for: Purchase price Renovation costs Holding costs Closing costs Unexpected repairs Profit comes from buying right,

DIY or Call a Pro?

By Christina L. Mullins - January 05, 2026
How to Know What You Can Safely Tackle Yourself Homeowners often want to save money by doing projects themselves. Some tasks are perfect for DIY, while others risk damage, injury, or reduced resale value. Safe DIY Projects Interior painting Simple landscaping Installing light fixtures (if you understand wiring) Replacing hardware Basic flooring like laminate or vinyl

Common Inspection Issues--What they Mean for YOU

By Christina L. Mullins - December 29, 2025
Understanding the Real Impact Behind Common Findings Inspections often overwhelm buyers and trigger negotiation stress for sellers. Most findings fall into predictable categories, and understanding them helps bring clarity to the process. Common Inspection Findings Roof Wear Inspections often note age or granular loss. Meaning: Roof replacement may be approaching, but “end of life” doesn’t alw

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