California Star Properties, Inc.
Newsletter Volume 5, Issue 2 • December 2002 - January 2003
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DO YOU KNOW OF SOMEONE WHO MAY SUFFER FROM ASTHMA OR WHO EXPERIENCES ALLERGIES?
A contributing factor may be mold.

Allergenic molds are normally not dangerous, but they can cause allergic or asthma symptoms such as wheezing or runny noses. These molds can be abated without the assistance of a licensed professional. It is suggested that personal protection, in the form of gloves and a disposable particulate-removing respirator be used, especially for those who experience allergies and/or asthma.

Mycotoxic molds can cause serious health effects in humans and in animals. Health effects range from short-term irritation to immunosuppression to cancer and even death. If any toxic molds are identified in a report, it is suggested that you seek the advice of an Industrial Hygienist or other mold professional for guidance. Homeowners should not attempt the abatement of these types of mold. This is a task for a professional who is prepared and knowledgeable.

Pathogenic molds can cause serious health effects in persons with suppressed immune systems, those taking chemotherapy, those with HIV/AIDS or auto-immunity disorders. If any Pathogenic molds are identified in a report, it is suggested that you seek the advice of an Industrial Hygienist or other mold professional for guidance. Any homeowner should not attempt the abatement of these types of mold. This is also a task for a professional who is prepared and knowledgeable.

What does this have to do with Buying and Selling Real Estate?
We at California Star Properties, Inc., have first-hand experience with Allergies and Asthma. When you read our Pre-listing Package located on our web site, you will see in Gary’s bio that he has suffered from these ailments since birth. Gary spent more than six years of his life in and out of hospitals (Stanford Convalescent Hospital and both O’Connor Hospitals) as a result of allergies and asthma and related breathing disorders. For Gary Mountain, these are still issues even today at 52! Hence, if you and your family are experiencing these health conditions in your home, then you may want to have your current home inspected by a licensed professional. If you are selling a home or buying a home, you may also want to have the same inspections completed, as there may be future liability in regards to disclosure of the same.

Many molds cannot be seen. You may smell an odor. It can be in the walls, floors, ceilings, or it can be transported by the heating and air conditioning systems.

Craig Bassett, President/Broker of California Star Properties, Inc.Craig Bassett, President/Broker of California Star Properties, Inc., recommends that sellers order an inspection as part of the disclosure package. While it is an expensive test and abatement is also very costly, we think that it is worth the expense to make your home safer for you to live in. "If you are spending the money to refinance the home it is probably a good time to order the inspection and address any issues. After all, your family lives in your home!"

Mold Remediation Firms in the SBC Yellow Pages:
• A Zanotti Construction: 408-515-7450 - abatement only
• Asbestos Removal Service: 408-374-1123 - abatement only
• Molds Environmental Solutions: 408-265-4744 - abatement only
• Mac’s Lab Inc. Mold Consulting and Testing: 408-727-9727 - testing
• Abatement Analytics: 408-264-1230 - testing

While this is a relatively new technology and we have recently become aware of the fact that there is a treatment for your home, at this time we cannot recommend one firm vs. another. We will, as always, build relationships based upon the service to our clients. Ask for references from recent past clients as well as current clients from these firms. It pays to be prudent.

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