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April 18, 2008
House Tutor for New Homeowners
In my first year as a homeowner I've spent a lot of time and money reacting to things, so have decided to shift to a more proactive approach. However learning home maintenance basics through books and a NHS Flatbush course isn't cutting it. A hand's on approach will work better. Seeking recommendations for someone to serve as a home tutor of sorts -- a mix between a home inspector, handyman, and teacher -- to provide the 101 on basic electrical, plumbing, heating, etc. This person must be a good communicator and enjoy sharing their knowledge and experience with others.
Any ideas?
Comments
An engineer who does inspections would be the person to go to. Call a few and ask what they would charge for a full day tutorial on everything you need to know.
Posted by: guest at April 18, 2008 12:40 PM
If you figure something out, let me know! I'd be interested in learning the same and could help split the cost.
Posted by: azul at April 18, 2008 1:23 PM
I'm very interested too! I feel like the OP. We've lived in our house for a year, and we have been reacting as some issues would appear, but there are still a lot of issues I'm wondering about and I would like to have a more proactive approach. I've been thinking about hiring an engineer/inspector for a day to answer all my questions. The inspection that was done when we bought the house was useful, but now that we have lived in the house for a year and have complete access to everything, I think it might be worth it... As far as the other aspect of your question (how to learn basic renovation and maintenance skills) I've been learning from my dad who's fairly handy and from some books, but I'd like to know if people have ressources to suggest.
Posted by: guest at April 18, 2008 1:46 PM
Make me an offer on my husband. He cooks and cleans too.
Posted by: rh at April 18, 2008 9:18 PM
I have owned and restored many 1800's houses and commercial structures, and would be glad to share accumulated knowledge of 35+ years as a renovator and building manager.
We are not contractors (we are not fishing for work) as we restore only properties we own, but we would be available to consult or teach an "urban home owners 101".
If you are actually seeking design ideas, an architect is probably a better choice, but if your questions are more along the lines of "Do we need to fix this, or can we live with it", or "What's involved in changing our ..." we should be able to provide guidance and direction.
We normally charge $250.00-300.00 for a 3 hour consultation, or $500.00 if we additionally attend with an experienced tradesman (plumbing/electrical etc).
If interested contact bruceatjerseydata.net.
Posted by: brucef at April 20, 2008 2:00 PM
I'd be into this, too--we just moved into an old victorian and feel a bit over our heads! Anyway, post contact info if you're into getting a group to learn/pay together.
Posted by: guest at April 20, 2008 3:10 PM
I would love to participate as well if you get a group together.
Posted by: pmmtenement at April 27, 2008 2:00 PM
I'm glad that there is so much interest. I've received some recs and proposals for teachers, and a handful of interested "pupils" to share the experience and cost. Those of you who expressed interest -- plz email me your contact info, liz.picarazzi(at)gmail.com
Posted by: lizpic at April 28, 2008 11:10 PM
I'd also be interested: we're in the process of seriously looking for a place, and having this type of knowledge beforehand would be a huge help.
Posted by: miehaya at May 26, 2008 4:25 PM
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