An Urgent Virginia Homeowner Tip for December 2009

By Doug Francis

Winter Downspout 5

Image by GeordieL via Flickr

Clear your downspouts of snow and ice so water can drain away from your house!

Last weekend’s 20+ inches of snow is going to hang around through the holidays, but Northern Virginia homeowners need to plan right now for the rain that is forecast for Christmas Day right into Boxing Day. Yes, rain is forecast and, potentially, a lot of it.

Snow and ice can dam downspouts & cause trouble

Although you may have a homeowner insurance policy that covers water damage, dealing with water coming into your home is a losing battle. Water flows to the lowest point and if there is a snow dam around your castle home then your basement is the lowest point. Water will get absorbed into carpet, drywall, wood studs and your concrete floor, and once there it may take a week or two to dry out.

Take a look at your downspouts and make sure they have room to drain. You may need a shovel to build a channel through the snow away from the foundation at least six feet into the yard.

So, before you wake up with all the excitement of an eight year-old on Christmas morning in Virginia this year, know that it is going to rain today.

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About Doug Francis

A seasoned Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug has seen consumer behavior, negotiations and communication styles change. At his original brokerage, he was the first agent to add an email address. Imagine! Outside real estate, he plays tennis, is a Washington Capitals fan, spends time with Skipper (his dog), and enjoys the restaurant scene in the DCA. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

When we bought our house in Vienna, we were thinking about raising the kids, updating a lot, and building an addition. With our kids now out of college, our plans are looking at our next phase, especially after seeing friends move away and adjust their lifestyles.

So, what’s next after 25 years? It’s a conversation lots of my clients are having with me as they plan to move to the beach, travel, or move closer to grandkids. Helping them see their future, sell their current home, and move ahead to their new plan has been an interesting new chapter.

My background: I am an active licensed agent in Virginia, have negotiated hundreds of sales contracts, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and still sell homes in all price ranges. I donate to the Town of Vienna tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Let’s discuss your moving plans: Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 to discuss your plans. Cheers!

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I'm licensed in Virginia with a focus on Vienna, VA real estate since 1991.

That deep knowledge is valuable, especially in today's fast-paced market where advice is critical. Although many of my clients are personally referred, I am available to help you too and am accepting new clients right now.

Feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!