Finding the Perfect House with a Pool.jpg

Some people, in their search for a new home, include the presence of a swimming pool as a mandatory feature. Of course, not every pool is created equal; while some may be a great asset, others may present some unpleasant challenges. If you want to buy a home with a pool, but want to avoid common pitfalls, read this first.

## Two distinctly different layouts for swimming pools: indoor and outdoor

Even though Luxembourg has a mild climate overall, a backyard pool will be heavily utilized during the summer months. Of course, the facilities will be empty and swimming will be off-limits during the colder months of winter and the middle of the season.

However, if the pool at your home is enclosed, you can use it whenever you like. Protecting the pool from external aggression (insects, falling leaves) reduces the amount of cleaning necessary, and the water heats up faster, so there is still some maintenance to be done.

Last but not least, a selling point can be a gorgeous outdoor pool that has been meticulously maintained and operates without a hitch. Even though the covered option will be more expensive up front and difficult to come by, it will undoubtedly be the better choice on a day-to-day basis.

_“Even though the covered alternative will cost more to buy, it will provide significant day-to-day benefits”._

## Things to look out for when purchasing a pool home

If you want to buy a house with a pool and actually use it, you should probably ask the current owner (or the real estate agency) some questions first. For instance, it's helpful to have some background knowledge about the contractor doing the building. Once you've determined who the builder is, you can check out their portfolio or order a catalog to get a sense of the kind of work they do and the caliber of their designs. Newer pools are always preferred so that we can reach out to the builder in the event of any issues. Otherwise, it's best to have the salesperson who steps in when there's cause for alarm also be the person you go to for help in the event of a malfunction.

_“If the manufacturer is still in business and the pool needs repairs, we can easily get in touch with them”._

Check the filter, the pump, and the liner to ensure they are all in good working order. Look at the repair and maintenance bills to get an idea of the previous owner's carefulness; it stands to reason that well-maintained installations will have fewer issues down the road.

## Condominium swimming pools are a luxury, but they often come with extra fees

Having a swimming pool in a co-owned building is a nice amenity that increases the building's value. The upkeep of such an installation can be delegated to a variety of parties, such as a security guard or an outside service provider. Extra costs are inevitable and must be planned for in every scenario where this occurs.

So, before you get too attached to an apartment with a pool, ask yourself honestly if you'll actually use it enough to justify the extra expense. If that's the case, you should investigate the building's state and get more information about upkeep.

Everyone has their own opinion on whether a pool is a worthwhile investment or a pointless extravagance; if you're set on having one in your home, though, think twice before making a hasty decision to purchase a property solely because it has a pool.

How to find the ideal house with a pool?

ideas to consider when planning a new kitchen remodel this year.jpg

Putting in a new kitchen in 2023? If you're stuck for ideas or just want to make this area more pleasant, functional, and inviting, here are some suggestions to get you started... In fact, we think it's great if you make use of the new opportunities that have arisen because of the developments in the industry. Make sure your decisions are ones you can still live with in a few years, and don't settle for something you'll grow tired of.

## Wood, a material whose worth increases with age

The most natural materials are making a comeback in interior design in 2023. For this reason, it's not surprising to see lots of wood in contemporary homes, whether it's for the furniture, the floors, or the decorations.

Don't be afraid to use raw wood with visible grain in the kitchen; it adds to the space's genuine charm. Wood's allure comes not just from its visual appeal but also from its tactile one. You can get a high-end look without breaking the bank by using a laminate that looks almost identical to real wood.

_“Some laminates surprisingly mimic the look of solid wood, allowing you to get a high-end look without breaking the bank”._

Naturally, a special treatment will be applied to the kitchen's wooden cabinets and other wooden worktops to make them long-lasting and resistant, in particular to the humidity in the room.

## The kitchen is also given a boost by the decor

The kitchen has been seen as a purely functional space for quite some time. The point was to have everything you needed within easy reach, without sacrificing convenience for the sake of ambiance.

As people spend more and more time in their living rooms, they increasingly want to personalize the space (in a context where the "homemade" resumes its titles of nobility). For this reason, installing design lights and even green plants on shelves and adding trinkets will come across as authentic and distinctive individual touches.

What is the primary benefit of this option? There's no reason why you can't switch up the decor whenever boredom strikes; there's no need to hire professionals or spend a lot of money.

## Kitchens, open or closed: the benefits of compromise

Many people ordering an apartment on plan consider whether they would prefer an open or closed kitchen, with full awareness of the pros and cons of each.

These days, it's more common to settle on compromises that allow you to set boundaries without completely closing off the kitchen. Glass walls, for instance, can separate the kitchen from the rest of the house while still allowing the light from the living room to shine through and brighten up meal prep.

In 2023, when designing a new house to the highest thermal standards, we naturally also consider sustainable development. As a result, choose energy-efficient appliances and don't be shy about exploring cutting-edge developments like the internet-connected fridge for streamlined food waste management.

3 ideas for planning a new kitchen in 2023

If a house has an attic, why does that matter.jpg

An attic's extra storage space can prove invaluable. It can be used as a bedroom, an office, or even just a storage space to free up more room in the bedrooms' closets, depending on the individual's needs and preferences. Here are some things to consider, though, before letting yourself be won over by a home that has this "little extra."

## Most attics have inadequate insulation, which is a major problem

Since roofs aren't always properly insulated, they're frequently the source of significant heat loss in homes. Be sure to check out the attic when you pay a visit to your home.

In particular, if there is even a hint of moisture in the air, thermal bridges, or insufficient insulation, you should know that this space is money losing unless it is renovated. The high cost of heating is directly proportional to the amount of heat lost.

A poorly insulated attic shouldn't deter you from buying a house if you like it otherwise. There are a number of low- or no-cost methods for making this space airtight in any building. Get some price quotes in before you make an offer to buy, and you might be able to negotiate a small discount for this absolutely essential upgrade.

Having an unheated attic shouldn't detract from the home's appeal if you're otherwise satisfied with it.

## How can you tell if an attic is suitable for human habitation?

It's challenging to make long-term plans when buying a house with an unfinished attic in anticipation of future expansion. You can learn more about what is and is not feasible with the help of some measurements.

In fact, it is estimated that in order to convert this top floor into a living room, a ceiling height of at least 1.80 meters together with a roof slope of more than 30% is required. When a particularly massive roof structure makes it seem like the attic is "lost," it's tempting to give up on the renovation project and throw in the towel. However, some specialized businesses can either modify this structure or raise the roof, making the attic accessible once again.

Again, if you're not sure if the attic can be converted into livable space or not, it may be a good idea to reach out to local businesses and request quotes.

## It's important to consider things like flooring, lighting, and thermal comfort when remodeling an attic

Make sure the floor is sturdy enough if you plan to use the attic as additional living space. Experts in the field of construction may advise using drywall to prevent overloading, but there is nothing stopping you from reinforcing the floor instead.

If you set up your living quarters in the attic, you won't have to worry about lighting because the roof windows will let in plenty of natural light. However, once you picture a playroom or office, for instance, you might wonder if the glazed area could be expanded without sacrificing thermal comfort.

_“Inquire if there is a way to increase the amount of glass in a structure without reducing the amount of insulation”._

It is common knowledge that enclosed spaces quickly overheat in the summer and freeze in the winter. Keep this in mind when shopping; exterior insulation can be added at a later date. On the inside, you can choose between mineral wool, glass wool, or glass with reinforced insulation to ward off the sun's rays during the hot summer months.

Why is it important to buy a house with an attic?

Largest housing concerns revolve around the energy passport and energy performance.jpg

Having accurate information about the primary energy consumption of each home is what makes the energy passport, also called an "energy certificate," so useful for comparing properties. This document is required for all construction projects beginning on or after January 1, 2008. An inspection of the building's energy efficiency can be performed at the same time!

## Acquiring knowledge from the energy performance certificate

The primary energy consumption of a home is determined in a controlled environment using a similar level of comfort and within the context of a predetermined use to generate an energy performance certificate. Thus, it facilitates the comparison of two properties' energy efficiency in Luxembourg, but it is not a replacement for a realistic simulation of consumption (which varies according to the weather, but also according to the requirements and habits of the users).

## What responsibilities come with an energy passport?

In 2008, the energy certificate was made required for all construction projects, including additions and remodels. The application and the building permit application must be submitted at the same time. If the work being done does not exceed 10% of the living space (or €1,500 for a single-family home and €3,000 for a multifamily building), then the document is not required.

_“All new construction, additions, and renovations performed after 2008 must have an energy certificate”._

Different types of energy passports exist in the realm of residential buildings because the standards for old and new buildings are different.

## Standards for assessing energy passports

The energy passport's evaluation criteria help shape new approaches to building; these days, improved thermal performances are prioritized in the pursuit of energy-efficient structures. It is our goal to set a new benchmark in energy efficiency in Luxembourg, and the passive house is just the beginning.

Indeed, the Grand Ducal regulation of July 23, 2016, which details the requirements for the primary energy requested by a building, is extremely stringent, even more so than the requirements of neighboring countries. The insulation thickness in the walls should be 20 centimeters, the roof should be 40 centimeters, and the lower slab should receive extra care (which can become a source of heat loss).

The energy passport primarily assesses the building's orientation, thermal envelope, watertight envelope (to prevent thermal bridges and limit condensation, respectively, both of which can contribute to humidity issues), and overall compactness (to ensure the greatest possible volume is heated with the fewest possible losses) (favoring the south for the living rooms, leaving a maximum of space for natural light).

_“The compactness, thermal envelope, airtight envelope, and orientation of the building are all evaluated in the energy passport”._

## How can we improve our construction practices to ensure the standards set in the Energy Passport?

While there are a number of prerequisites that must be met before applying for the energy passport, there are ways to build that allow you to exceed these official recommendations and create even greener homes. With this in mind, the passive house model has been imposed on the territory at large, and an increasing number of high-performance, zero-net-energy buildings are also springing up.

For this reason, while single glazing was sufficient in the 1970s and double glazing in the 2000s, we now rely on triple glazing, with frames that combine solid and waterproof materials like aluminum and wood for maximum energy efficiency.

Though many firms in the industry are still focused on making a profit (and thus on finding the cheapest materials that will allow them to work faster), the future of today's buildings has inspired a lot of introspection. It is becoming more and more important to choose alternatives that not only provide superior thermal comfort, but also offer recyclable solutions that will not pollute the environment when they reach the end of their useful lives.

What do you know about the energy passport?

Rental properties in Luxembourg - find your perfect home.jpg

Finding a suitable rental property in Luxembourg can be challenging, as the market is competitive and the supply is limited. In this setting, landlords can confidently sign a lease with tenants who provide the best guarantees... However, apartment hunting can quickly become a nightmare for those in the market. Here are some quick fixes to get you out of that rut and into your dream apartment.

## Make use of property search alerts

It makes sense to use a real estate portal, where you can browse through numerous rental ads and find the one that best suits your needs.

However, if you want to save time, it's best to conduct searches based on your own criteria. This will ensure that the website only displays properties that are suitable for your needs in terms of price, square footage, amenities, number of rooms, and so on.

_“Prioritize searches that meet your specific criteria to speed up your research”._

Finally, set up alerts to be notified as soon as possible whenever an ad likely to interest you is posted online (always with your search criteria). This way, you can get in touch with the lessor right when the ad goes live by receiving an email or notification.

## Away to the pitch!

Put down the computer and start exploring the area you'll soon call home. To find a rental that suits your needs, you should knock on the doors of real estate agencies and explain what you're looking for. Of course, to increase your chances of finding the hidden gem, you should check out as many local agencies as possible.

Planning ahead for this day will help you make the most of your time if you don't already live in the city. Plan ahead and visit frequently. Focus on the frequency of your visits, make an effort to establish a rapport with the landlord, win his trust, and show some initiative by introducing yourself; this will help you stand out from the crowd of other potential tenants interested in the same rental.

"Since you may have to contend with other suitors for each rental, wager on the number of visits."

## Please bring all necessary paperwork to the appointment

A rental application packet typically contains the following documents: a government-issued photo ID, a tax notice, pay stubs from the previous months, an employment contract, and other financial evidence. Make multiple copies of everything that could help your application right away, including scans and photocopies: a guaranteed job with benefits, a regular paycheck, the support of your parents, etc (if you are still young and they agree to act as guarantors).

You should probably skip the people who show up to the visit without their file and go straight to the people who have everything they need because that will save the owner time. Having a digital version also facilitates communication across personas; for example, if you're meeting with someone who doesn't want to lug around a stack of paperwork, you can respond by suggesting that everything be sent over email right away.

Last but not least, give yourself the best possible shot at finding a rental in Luxembourg by narrowing your search and taking the initiative to contact an agency, making sure to present a thorough file for each potential dwelling. A real estate agent is there to help you from the moment you start looking for a home until the day you move in.

Rental properties in Luxembourg: find your perfect home!

build your frame and roof.jpg

Large amounts of heat can be lost due to improper roof design, and if the roof isn't properly waterproofed, it can disrupt your peace of mind. Given the diversity of roofing and framing options, it's important to educate yourself on the subject so you can make an informed decision about the best solution for your needs, from the quality of your roofing material to the frequency with which you should perform routine maintenance.

## Choosing a roof: factors to think about

The frame, no matter how high up it is, is a load-bearing component because it secures the building envelope. Don't rush, as this area will be subject to the weather (snow in the winter, for example).

_“Since this area will be constantly exposed to the elements, you shouldn't rush to finish it”._

Consider the possibility of infestation by insects, fungi, and molds if you opt for wood. Many homeowners prefer solid wood due to its durability and fire resistance; however, it must be meticulously installed to prevent accidental damage.

Anticipated frame criteria include fire resistance because, if the frame burns down, the entire building is compromised. In the event of a fire, materials like concrete, tile, and slate prove to be more resilient than metal or industrial glued laminated wood.

Water vapor from sources inside the home (breathing, the bathroom, the dryer, etc.) that should escape to the outside often accumulates, leading to problems like pests and mold. It is recommended to install a vapor barrier film inside to prevent this phenomenon. As a result, the home's insulation is protected from the indoor humidity, and the structure lasts longer.

## To truss or not to truss?

The truss frame is made of wooden boards that are prefabricated in a factory before being transported to the construction site and installed. Good insulation can be achieved from the outset thanks to this setup, and additional insulation layers can be added later if desired. Despite the "kit's" widespread appeal due to its apparent usefulness and simplicity of assembly, it precludes the possibility of a future attic conversion.

Someday turning the attic into habitable space requires a traditional frame built from solid wood specifically for the job at hand. This is a more involved and costly build, but it could provide more usable space for living in the future.

_“You should go with a conventional, solid-wood frame if you plan on setting up living quarters on the second story”._

What are the right materials to build your frame and roof?

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To get the best thermal insulation value and to construct a sturdy and long-lasting house, it makes sense to research the best masonry materials to use. Several guidelines will help you figure out the trade-offs that are necessary for you to reduce your energy consumption (and recycling), maintain a high quality of life in your home, and eliminate or at least lessen the impact of any construction limitations.

## The primary materials used in masonry, along with their benefits and drawbacks

### Bricks and cinder blocks are two prevalent alternates

Because of its durability, affordability, and low carbon footprint, brick is one of the most well-known materials (to fire and frost, among others). On the other hand, it needs to be combined with adequate insulation for the building to meet the stringent thermal requirements that exist in Luxembourg.

Traditional hollow bricks or single wall bricks can also be used. The lack of insulation for the former means that the latter will be insufficient.

_According to the authors, "Breeze block is one of the most well-known materials: it is used a lot because of its low price, low carbon footprint, and resilience."_

### Wood and cellular concrete are more ambitious materials that require less insulation

In the same way that metal buildings need extra insulation, wooden ones do as well, but they can be erected quickly and with little hassle (no lengthy drying times are to be anticipated).

Cellular concrete, however, is still the best option if you want the best possible insulation as soon as the first exterior walls are installed. It's lightweight and has a high reputation for thermal conductivity, but it can only be used for structures with a maximum of two stories (not for residences, for example).

It doesn't matter if you're constructing your home out of wood, concrete, or cinder blocks; you'll always need to insulate it. For instance, the insulation for a wall constructed of wood, which is relatively effective, is placed directly between the supporting posts, resulting in a wall that is only 40 centimeters thick. If you use less efficient materials, you'll need to insulate the building's exterior, which can quickly cause your walls to grow to be 50 centimeters thick.

## Which interior walls should I install?

When the outside walls are up, it's time to think about the interior walls. In this case, health is more of a concern than heat retention. Some may opt for non-removable, solid, perforated, or fixed options in order to design spaces that are ideally suited to their needs.

### Room dividers for bathrooms with standing water

Partitions with a high moisture threshold are ideal for use in damp locations like the bathroom, where condensation can cause serious problems elsewhere in the house.

### Modular, detachable walls

Removable walls are gaining popularity because they allow people to arrange their living space in any way they like, according to their needs and preferences.

_“More and more people are showing an interest in removable partitions due to their convenience and the independence they provide”._

### Drywall

Drywall, which may be constructed from plaster, brick, or aerated concrete, is used to create a solid wall between two rooms. For example, some citations are created in a way that maximizes their ability to dampen outside noise.

### Aesthetically pleasing and functional partitions

In addition to being an ideal choice for water rooms, glass partitions are a clever way to let light into dark corners of the home without sacrificing privacy. Furthermore, plants are used to create genuine plant partitions, or "thematic" partitions, in specialized settings, such as a Japanese-style room or an artist's studio. Everyone has complete leeway to do as they please.

It's plain to see that the exterior walls and the interior walls are constructed from different materials. Seek the guidance of skilled artisans if you want to avoid common pitfalls.

What materials should I choose for the masonry of my house?

How to Pick and Maintain Your Interior Window and Door Fixtures.jpg

You should consider both the aesthetics and the functionality of the windows and doors you choose for your new home (thermal insulation, maintenance, security, etc.). To sum up, the woodwork on the inside of your home is something you should give some thought to, and here are some helpful things to know to help you get started.

## Choose between wood, PVC, and aluminum for my home's interior woodwork

For both entryways and vistas, you can pick from a variety of materials, each with its own set of pros and cons. For instance, aluminum keeps making strides in the marketplace, alluring more and more consumers with its solid construction and adaptability. It can be modified to suit a wide variety of building styles and aesthetic preferences.

The timeless appeal of wood lies in its natural qualities of warmth and authenticity. To achieve the low maintenance costs of metal and the high aesthetic value of wood joinery, aluminum is often used in combination with wood.

_"Wood retains a timeless appeal and remains timeless for its warmth and authenticity."_

Last but not least, PVC's low cost, adaptability, and promise of simple maintenance mean that it is still widely used in modern products (a quick wipe down is all it takes).

## When picking out windows, what should you look for?

You should absolutely choose your windows based on their thermal performance, in addition to the question of the main material. The best of them will provide you with a level of airtightness that will allow you to drastically cut down on heating costs and still meet the standards set for new buildings in terms of energy efficiency.

When planning a renovation, it's important to give thought to how the glazing will need to change to accommodate the new layout. If you put in a window facing north, for instance, you should use triple glazing. South-facing windows can benefit greatly from solar control glazing, which blocks the sun's rays to keep the room at a more comfortable temperature. Additionally, solutions with improved acoustic insulation can be favored in areas vulnerable to noise from passing vehicles.

Only triple glazing should be used in passive houses.

## The best hardware, such as doorknobs and door locks

You need to think ahead to the variety of options for opening and closing doors and windows, both for convenience and safety.

### Automatic door openers

The door opener is an important part of any home security system, but it is especially useful if you have children who stay home alone or if you feel unsafe staying in your own home alone.

### Pulls for Doors

Whether you go with a handle mounted to a plate or a rose will be largely a matter of taste, but you'll need to think ahead to the door's closing mechanism either way (with or without key, condemnation button, full). Always go with the option that works best with the two areas the door is separating (e.g., bathroom vs. exterior or unlocked interior room)!

### The Securing of Doors

Selecting a lock with three or five points of security will increase its ability to deter intruders. Keep in mind that locks should always strive for the highest level of security possible, and that there are a variety of protection systems (against breaking, picking, or drilling) that can be useful.

_“When it comes to keeping your belongings safe from intruders, a lock with three or five points of security is your best bet”._

Regarding the fasteners, plan ahead for the various window and bay configurations' opening and closing motions. It may be necessary to install locks or other security measures on some uncovered components, but for our everyday convenience, we prefer to wager on tilt-and-turn models, which let in air without inviting intruders inside.

How to choose and maintain your interior woodwork?

What documentation should a prospective buyer request from a property's current owner.jpg

It is the responsibility of the buyer to know everything there is to know about the property. There are still some required rituals to be observed in Luxembourg, while others are merely suggested.

## The Energy performance certificate (EPC): A Property Sale Obligation

The EPC, also called an "energy passport," is one of the necessary documents at the close of a sale. Creating an energy passport actually requires the seller to consult with professionals before listing the property for sale. Greenhouse gas emissions are estimated from the energy consumption data collected in the energy passport.

The buyer receives this data after it has been transmitted. People who are in the market to buy a home typically have low energy consumption as one of their top priorities, making this a very important consideration. A home with poor insulation and high heating costs will be worth less than one with the same square footage and features that meets the most stringent thermal standards.

To paraphrase the article, "all owners who have never performed an energy passport — or whose document is more than 10 years old — should request this expertise prior to the sale."

Having an EPC on hand isn't enough to close the deal; you should get one before you even start writing ads. These details are essential for potential buyers to make an informed decision about your property, so be sure to include them in your ad.

All owners who have never completed an energy passport, or whose document is older than ten years, are required to request this service prior to selling their home.

## In order to plan ahead financially, you need to know the household expenses

The vendor can provide photocopies of his fixed-cost invoices, such as his utility bills. You can also request a copy of the last three statements of charges from the trustee for the apartment. These records are invaluable to a buyer because they spell out exactly how much money will need to be paid each month for the house or apartment.

The heating bills, along with the Energy Performance Certificate, should inform your decision. If you find that they are unusually high, don't be afraid to inquire about the vendor's customs and whether you will be expected to pay the same (some people spend more because they are simply more chilly!).

_“If heating costs continue to be affordable, that will be a positive factor in your final decision”._

## Buying a condo: a unique circumstance

Buying an apartment in a building automatically makes you a part owner of the entire complex. To determine the annual fees of the previous owner, you will need to obtain the minutes from the most recent meeting and any relevant financial statements. The meeting minutes will reveal any major projects that have been planned. Budget for regular upkeep as well as unexpected breakdowns and repairs.

Knowing all the works that were decided by the General Assembly of co-owners prior to the deed of sale and that remain the responsibility of the seller unless otherwise specified in the said deed of sale is helpful in this regard.

Acquiring all of these items at the time of purchase is much more likely if a real estate agent is present. Experts will be able to direct your every move and give you confidence. They'll make sure your paperwork is in order and legal, and that you have all the knowledge you need to buy a home with peace of mind.

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