Tips for First Time Homeowners
Ron Morris • June 1, 2021
10 Tips for First Time Homeowners
- If you have hardwood flooring do not spend money on expensive “hardwood floor cleaners.” Instead mix 1 part Windex with 10 parts water in a spray bottle.
- If you have an interior door that rubs on the jamb and is hard to close, try removing one of the hinge screws opposite of where it is rubbing and insert a 3” screw. Most times it will pull the jamb back enough to prevent rubbing.
- Keep your gutters clean-if you do not the water will sheet flow over blocked gutters and run down the exterior walls of your home. It could enter your home through old and brittle caulking on the way down and then into your basement if you have bad drainage.
- Bathroom caulking-If you have ceramic in a tub or shower it should always be caulked in the 90-degree corners, where the ceramic sits on the tub and where the tub sits on a ceramic floor. You always want to prevent the water from contacting the underlying wood members.
- Running toilets are costing you money. Most times it is the rubber flapper that needs replaced. They can be purchased for a few dollars at a hardware store.
- Stop-do not call an electrician if you have outlets that do not work. Check these 2 things. First, all outlets that are within 6’ of a water source are called GFCI protected. They are overly sensitive and trip very easily. Their purpose is to prevent shock. Typically, some of the outlets on your kitchen counter, bath vanities, and at your electrical panel will have test and reset buttons. Find the one that is tripped and reset it. If it continues to trip, then you should call an electrician. Secondly, many rooms in your home may be on what is called a switched receptacle-this is where ½ of a duplex outlet will be worked by a wall switch. The purpose is so when entering a room without an overhead light you can flip the switch to access a lamp.
- Sealing decks. If done properly this will further the lifespan of the wood members 2-fold. Make sure you do this when the wood is completely dry. The best time is mid-summer. If you are a do it yourselfer and want to build a deck, make sure that all your lumber is rated “ground contact”.
- If you need window parts, be aware of contractors who tell you that the “whole window needs replaced.” There is a website called swisco.com that can get almost any window part that was made. A neighbor got an estimate for $1,250 for a window replacement. He was able to get the part on this website for under $5.
- Hose bibbs-VERY IMPORTANT-as soon as the weather starts to get chilly make sure to turn off your exterior hose spigots at the interior hose bibb shutoff, unhook any hoses and then turn on the exterior spigot to release any water that is trapped.
- Do not spend hundreds of dollars on an exterminator to get rid of ants. Terro makes a gel product that if you follow the instructions will eliminate most problems.
Exciting, the final renovations of the last two units are underway at Weinberg House, a long-standing affordable senior living community in Fredrick, Maryland. Originally built in 1994, the property provided safe, stable housing for older adults for decades. Renovations began on May 1, 2023. At that time, they had a total of 23 units to renovate. The renovations included freshly painted walls, new carpet in the bedrooms, new flooring in the other rooms, new cabinets in the bathroom, as well as new kitchen cupboards, fixtures and new appliances. The final two units will be ready for lease up June 15, 2026. The renovation of Weinberg House represents a meaningful investment in both people and place. By modernizing the property while protecting its mission, this project will help ensure that affordable, welcoming housing remains available for seniors for years to come. It is an encouraging example of how thoughtful redevelopment can strengthen communities and honor the residents who call them home.
In March 2026, IHA was awarded a $50,000 grant through the Frederick County Government’s Helping Empower Area Resources Together (HEART). These one-time operational funds were awarded to mitigate the effects of the longest federal government shutdown in history. This grant has allowed IHA to continue providing essential programs and services to Frederick County residents despite challenges at the federal level. IHA was also awarded a $5,000 grant from the City of Frederick through the Community Promotion Grant program. This grant supports aging in place and youth development needs among City residents through IHA’s Supportive Services. The program serves residents of IHA’s senior and multi-family affordable rental communities at 222 Broadway Street (Weinberg House) and 520 N. Market Street, respectively. In April 2026, IHA was also awarded a $25,000 Community Partnership Grant from Frederick County Government. This grant supports IHA’s full range of Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services, including our homeownership and financial education programming. IHA’s Purchase-Repair Program provides an avenue to homeownership for those who otherwise would not qualify for a traditional home loan. In Credit Café, participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp helps participants improve their skills in budgeting, saving, debt reduction, and financial goal setting. The Frederick Affordable Housing Incubator (FAHI) brings multiple sectors together to increase the affordable housing inventory in Frederick County.
For 36 years, the Interfaith Housing Alliance has stood beside individuals and families as they navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. What began as a mission rooted in compassion and community partnership has grown into an organization that continues to make a lasting impact across our region, helping families find stability, build financial confidence, and create brighter futures. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are not only reflecting on where we have been, but also recognizing the incredible growth, resilience, and innovation that continue to shape IHA today. Over the past 36 years, IHA has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community while remaining committed to the same core belief: everyone deserves access to safe housing, financial education, and the opportunity to thrive. Through housing counseling, financial education workshops, community partnerships, and affordable housing initiatives, IHA has empowered thousands of individuals and families with the tools, support, and stability needed to move forward with confidence. Beyond education and counseling services, IHA’s long-standing commitment to affordable housing development has helped create lasting impact throughout the community. Over the years, IHA has developed, built, and managed affordable housing units that have provided safe, stable homes for countless individuals and families. These housing initiatives represent more than buildings, they represent opportunity, dignity, and the foundation for stronger futures. The growth and preservation of affordable housing remains a vital part of IHA’s legacy and ongoing mission. Behind every program, every workshop, and every success story is a community of people who believe in the work we do. Our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters have played an essential role in helping IHA grow over the last three and a half decades. Their dedication and belief in our mission continue to fuel the impact we are able to make every day. Most importantly, we celebrate the individuals and families who have trusted IHA to be part of their journey. Every financial goal reached, every housing challenge overcome, and every moment of renewed confidence is a reminder of why this work matters. As we look ahead, we remain focused on continuing to innovate, educate, and advocate for stronger communities. The need for affordable housing resources and financial empowerment remains as important as ever, and IHA is committed to meeting that need with the same compassion and determination that has defined the organization for the past 36 years. Thank you for being part of the Interfaith Housing Alliance story. Together, we celebrate 36 years of impact and look forward to the many more lives we will continue to support in the years ahead.