Shopping for a home loan? It’s best to do it within 30 days of a credit pull so your score doesnt drop. When you apply for credit, such as a car or home loan, you authorize lenders to inquire for a copy of your credit report from a credit bureau. Too many inquiries could lower […]
If you’re a first-time homeowner, you likely have a list of renovations. Address these three areas in your first year: Your appliancesInsulation, andLandscaping Appliances with the Energy-Star rating can save you on your utilities. According to one study, one energy-efficient machine can save you $50 a year. Check your insulation. If you have an attic, […]
For generations, most home purchases were made by married couples. With many people postponing marriage to pursue an education and a career, more and more single adults are overcoming challenges to become homeowners. Meet Income RequirementsIf you want to buy a house by yourself, the lender will make its decision based solely on your income. […]
A house with a master suite is a dream for many. A large bedroom, private bathroom and other amenities can be an oasis for stressed-out homeowners to escape and relax. However, a master suite can also be expensive”and may or may not attract buyers in the future. Features of a Master SuiteThe term master suite […]
Many people dream of owning a home, but it can be difficult to save enough money for a down payment and closing costs. Fortunately, federal, state and local governments offer a variety of programs to help people purchase their first home. Federal ProgramsThe Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers insured loans, which means that the lender […]
If you need money for home improvements, tuition or another purpose, you might be able to secure funds through a second mortgage. How Does a Second Mortgage Work? A second mortgage is a loan that allows a homeowner to borrow against the value of their house by using it as collateral. One option is to […]
When someone passes away, his or her house is generally left to a family member. Figuring out what to do after inheriting a house can be confusing and overwhelming, particularly when it is unexpected or when siblings become joint owners. People sometimes rush to make decisions, and sometimes, they put off making important choices. Either […]
Break-ins occur every day across the U.S., resulting in property damage, theft and, in some cases, injuries. The unfortunate reality is that anyone can become a victim; however, studies have found that criminals are much less likely to target homes with security systems. Reasons to Get a Home Security SystemInstalling a security system could give […]
Owing more money on your mortgage loan than your home is worth”commonly referred to as being underwater on a home mortgage”can seem hopeless. There were 6.7 million underwater homes in the U.S. at the end of the first quarter of 2016, representing 12 percent of all properties with a mortgage, according to RealtyTrac. The numbers […]
Follow these steps to give your living room a redefining makeover… Identify Focal Points Find the feature that immediately draws your eye and build around it. Mind the Windows Windows seriously impact the energy of a room. Use lighter curtains that allow natural light in while still providing privacy. Add Plants An indoor tree can […]
There’s a memorable phrase in the real estate profession of “Disclose, disclose, disclose. Those who don’t, don’t close, don’t close, don’t close.” Its a smart rule to follow, and not just to make a sale. The National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics goes into some detail about what agents should disclose to clients, though […]
When the day is done, nothing is more relaxing than retiring to your bedroom. Unless, of course, your bedroom isn’t a calming space. Below are several tips for designing a sleeping space that brings calm and comfort. Cool colors. There is nothing calming about a blood red bedroom. Choose a cool hue like gentle blue, […]
Now that the dust has settled and your belongings are put away, its time to get a lay of the land. Whether you moved a few houses down the street or across state lines, settling into a new location can be a fun adventureso long as youre ready to put in the work it takes […]
If you’re between jobs or retired”or not working and considering retirement”you can still buy a home and get a mortgage that will require you to make monthly payments. While you don’t need a job to get a mortgage, what you do need is income. And there are many types of income that lenders will accept […]
Most people expect to pay off their mortgage and live in their house during retirement. Unfortunately, life doesnt always go according to plan. If a homeowner dies before paying off the mortgage, it could have implications for the estate and the persons heirs. Discussing the future and preparing for that possibility can make the transition […]
Many individuals are beginning to identify with minimalism, as rising costs in real estate have generated a need for creativityat least when it comes to living space. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates, it costs 32 cents per month to maintain any given square foot. That means that an additional 54% of your […]
Create the ideal outdoor kitchen by paying attention to these characteristics… Figure Out the Features The grill is the star, but a stove top, sink and refrigerator add tons of convenience. Seating Matters Consider two seating areas: one for casual hangouts and another for al fresco dinners. Put a Roof Over It Extend the roof […]
A home is the biggest single purchase most people will make. Matt Blashaw, a licensed contractor and host of the DIY network show, Money Hunters, offers six tips for planning and performing routine maintenance that can save dollars as well as future headaches: Save on tools ” Unless its a tool you will use often, […]
