New to TV... a few questions :)
 

Hello all, closing on a home next week. I couldn't be more excited! Anyway, I was wondering...

Termite bond. Any thoughts? Companies to suggest? Average price per month?

Any reputable and competitive priced companies out there that will mow my yard, edge & trim shrubberies when needed in the area?

Has anyone had their popcorn ceiling removed and had it replaced with "orange peel" or a smoother surface? Who did the work and what was the cost? I have a 3/2 i'm considering having it done to provided it isn't too expensive.

Any reputable contractors out there that can do things such as remodel a bathroom & kitchen? I want to rip out the sliding door shower and install a tiled walk in shower :)

Thank you all so much! Can't wait to move in!!!!!

I would suggest you go to the contractor forums here on TOTV. You can read all about what experiences with a variety of contractors.

Welcome! One of the major pest control companies (Massey, Deans, etc) did the initial termite protection and most homeowners go with them for protection or a few might do it themselves. A check with neighbors is another good idea. You should check with the previous owner too with a resale as there may be a contract that can transferred.

Click on "search" to find many contractor pros & cons to do various projects that you mentioned. Also you will find landscaping/mowing recommendations under the "search" method too. Good luck.

termite bond-keep

Keep the termite bond that is already on your home. If you go with a new company, they will insist on an expensive treatment even if it was done a year ago. If you aren't happy with them, wait until it's been 5 years, then switch. There will be a sticker on your breaker box in the garage stating when the last treatment was.
Lawn, you'll probably find it's nice to go with the same people your neighbors do. You can get a better deal if they have multiple houses right in a row, plus everyone's grass is basically the same height since it's all done on the same day.

You won't have to seek anyone out for anything, in the first month you'll have everybody soliciting you. As for termites, at closing you should have a certificate from Massey indicating your home has been treated and if you want to continue you'll need to send in about $125 for a year.

I never sent my in, that was 5-1/2 years ago and yet Massey sends me that bill every year. I have a masonry CYV, which means the major wood area is the trusses. Termites don't live in areas that are above 120 degrees or if they do, they will die when it reachs above 120 degrees. Our attics here will get very hot, so I'm taking my chances. When purchased, this was my 7th new home since 1975 and it was my 5th in Florida. I've never had a termite problem and three of my homes in Pensacola were stick built with a lot of wood.