Wayfaring Lancaster

You must be pretty special because I’m about to share one of my own sauce recipes with you! If you know me, you know I love to cook and bake—it’s kind of my thing. On Facebook, people go crazy over my cakes, but between you and me, I actually prefer cooking.

This sauce was born on a whim one day when I wanted something with more bold bell pepper and onion flavor and a little less tomato. The first time I made it, I used it as an enchilada sauce, but now it’s my go-to for drizzling over meats. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything!

Sandra’s Crockpot Base Sauce

This simple, flavorful sauce is perfect for slow-cooking meats or customizing with BBQ or spicy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 1 bag (about 12-16 oz) frozen peppers and onions

• 1 tbsp crushed garlic

• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a crockpot.

2. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours until flavors meld together.

3. Cool slightly, and puree in blender. Portion and store some in the freezer if desired.

4. Use as-is for cooking meats or customize with:

   • BBQ Flavor: Add brown sugar and BBQ rub.

   • Spicy Kick: Add hot peppers or hot sauce.

Ways to Use the Sauce:

• Slow-Cooked Pork Roast: Add 1 cup sauce per roast, cook until tender.

• Shredded Chicken: Add 1-1.5 cups sauce for 2-3 lbs chicken breasts, shred after cooking.

It’s a versatile, no-fuss sauce with endless possibilities!

Even though the Fire and Ice Festival has ended, Lititz is still embracing the cold—this time with something sweet! Celebrate the charm of America’s Coolest Small Town at the Lititz Ice Cream Festival, a deliciously fun event that brings the community together for an afternoon of tasty treats and family-friendly fun. Enjoy the best scoops in town while supporting a great cause—proceeds benefit Water Street Mission.

📅 Saturday, February 22, 2025
⏰ Two Time Slots:
• 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM

📍 Location: Lincoln Shoe Co.
🎟️ Tickets: $20 per person

Don’t miss out on this sweet way to keep the winter fun going in Lititz!

Pause the Romance: Why Due Diligence is Critical When Buying a Home

Falling in love with a home is easy. Maybe it has the dream kitchen you always wanted, a backyard that feels like an oasis, or a charming historic appeal that speaks to your soul. But before you get swept away, take a deep breath and hit pause on the romance. Most people are fairly nervous when buying a house, whether it’s the first time or the 9th time. It’s like having a baby, though I have never birthed 9 kids to know for sure, I imagine each pregnancy still comes with its own stresses and excitement. Each one can come with its own complications and stages in life. This is where due diligence comes in. Once your offer is accepted, you enter the due diligence period—a critical time to ensure the home is not just beautiful but also structurally and financially sound.

Essential Home Inspections

During due diligence, various inspections can be conducted to uncover hidden issues that may not be visible during a showing. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. General Home Inspection

   • A licensed home inspector assesses the overall condition of the house, including its structure, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and more.

2. Pest and Termite Inspection

   • Determines if there is any current or past termite activity, wood rot, or other pest-related damage.

3. Radon Testing

   • Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can be hazardous to your health. Testing ensures levels are within safe limits.

4. Mold Inspection

   • If there are signs of moisture or water damage, a mold inspection can determine if mold is present and if remediation is needed.

5. Sewer or Septic Inspection

   • A sewer scope can identify blockages, root intrusion, or pipe deterioration. If the home has a septic system, it should be inspected for proper function and maintenance.

6. Well Water Testing

   • If the home has a well, water quality tests can reveal contaminants such as bacteria, lead, or nitrates.

7. Foundation and Structural Inspection

   • If there are signs of cracks or shifting, a structural engineer can assess whether the foundation is stable.

8. Roof Inspection

   • A detailed roof inspection evaluates its age, condition, and any potential leaks or needed repairs.

9. HVAC Inspection

   • A specialist examines the heating and cooling systems to ensure they function properly and have been maintained.

10. Environmental Inspection

• For older homes, this may include checking for lead-based paint, asbestos, or other hazardous materials.

What If Problems Are Found?

Finding issues during inspections doesn’t necessarily mean you should walk away. Here are your options:

1. Request Repairs

   • You can ask the seller to fix major issues before closing.

2. Negotiate a Price Reduction or Credit

   • Instead of repairs, you can negotiate a lower price or ask for a closing credit to cover future repairs.

3. Proceed with the Purchase As-Is

   • If the issues are minor and within your budget to fix, you may choose to move forward without renegotiation.

4. Walk Away

   • If the problems are extensive and the seller is unwilling to negotiate, you may decide it’s best to back out. Your due diligence period typically allows you to do so without financial penalty.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home is an emotional journey, but due diligence is your safeguard against costly mistakes. A home may look perfect on the surface, but inspections reveal what’s beneath. Stay objective, weigh your options, and make an informed decision. The right house should not only make your heart happy but also be a wise investment for your future.

Fireside Café in East Earl, PA, began in 2020 as a walk-up café with drive-thru and outdoor seating, quickly becoming a local favorite during the pandemic. After a fire in 2022 at the neighboring Keystone Custom Decks, the café closed temporarily but used the time to renovate and expand. It reopened in April 2024 with a refreshed indoor space and enhanced outdoor areas. firesidecafe.net

Imagine sitting on their beautifully designed deck with friends, savoring expertly crafted coffee and delicious food. The outdoor space features high-top tables, swinging chairs, a fire pit, and even a children's play area, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. beentheredonethatwithkids.com

It's the perfect spot to relax, chat, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Sandra Burkholder

EXP Realty – Licensed Real Estate Agent since 2000

Serving Lancaster, Chester, Berks and York County PA

With a passion for connecting people to their dream homes and investment opportunities, I bring a professional yet approachable touch to every real estate transaction. Specializing in high-value residential properties and commercial real estate, I combine a sharp eye for detail with a deep understanding of buildings, honed through my experience conducting insurance inspections for commercial and high-value homes. This expertise allows me to provide unique insights to clients, ensuring they make confident and informed decisions.

My career is built on a foundation of trust, expertise, and a commitment to creating community. As a Lancaster County local with a background in urban living from my time in Philadelphia, I offer a unique perspective on rural, suburban, and city lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking your dream luxury home, exploring investment opportunities, or making your first real estate purchase, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

www.sandraburkholder.com www.wayfaringlanaster.com [email protected] [email protected]

Not intended to solicit any properties already listed for sale with another real estate agent. If your home is already for sale, then please disregard this message.