The higher a down payment is on a house, the cheaper the mortgage will be. Its simple math. The traditional down payment of 20 percent for a house is just that ” traditional. There are all types of loans that can range from zero down to 3, 5 or 10 percent of a homes purchase […]
If you’ve found the house of your dreams but are having trouble qualifying for a mortgage, you could ask another person to co-sign your mortgage. Here are some things to consider. Reasons to Have a Co-Signer Buying your first house, high credit card balances or a poor credit history are all valid reasons for having […]
Home improvements are sometimes necessary to make a house safer, more comfortable or more functional, but they are often very expensive. Many homeowners struggle to save money for upgrades and consider tapping into their retirement savings to fund projects, especially for urgently needed repairs, such as a roof replacement. Dipping into money set aside for […]
Many homebuyers choose to a purchase a house on a cul-de-sac just to avoid a busy street. However, there are pros and cons you should be aware of up front. Traffic Since there’s only one way in and out, a cul-de-sac has less traffic than a typical street. Parking Depending on the size and layout […]
With a variety of home surveillance kits available, many handy homeowners have chosen to install security cameras themselves. The installation process can be easy, but knowing the proper way to place and angle the cameras is vital to keeping your home as safe as it can be. The most important factor in judging where to […]
These key features will enhance your kitchen in more ways than one. Two Ovens Multiple ovens provide you with flexibility and functionality, especially when making a multi-course meal for large groups. Pot Filler A faucet mounted right above the stove lets you skip the heavy lifting and get right down to cooking. Professional-Grade Range Whether […]
Looking at homes for sale can be the fun part of buying a house. The real work comes when youre picking a mortgage lender that can give you the best loan for your circumstances. After detailing your income, expenses, down payment and a monthly mortgage you can afford, a lender will run a credit check […]
Here are a few tips to better organize your living space. One Room at a Time Decluttering your entire home can be a daunting task, so its best to tackle one room at a time. Identify the Nonessentials Consider whats essential and whats not. If you can live without it, toss it, or better yet, […]
Many homeowners know the feeling of unease that accompanies finding mice or other rodents in their home. Whether in the kitchen, attic, basement or dining room, a rodent sighting can incite surprise and fear in even the most composed homeowner. Unfortunately, these common pests are resourceful creatures that can enter a building or home through […]
Here are a few creative ways to keep your outdoor area private. Vertical Garden To feel totally immersed in nature, a vertical garden, also known as a living wall, is the perfect solution. Pergola Often used to create shade, a pergola is also a particularly effective way to increase overhead privacy. Outdoor Curtains A fun […]
If youre planning to step up your barbecue game, a new grill can make all the difference and turn your backyard into the best place for family and friends to hang out under the sun. Here are five favorite grills to please everyone, from charcoal loyalists to high-tech grill masters. Kalamazoo Gaucho Wood-Fired Grill with […]
If you’re having trouble paying your mortgage, programs are available to help homeowners in situations like yours keep their houses or avoid foreclosure. Don’t wait to ask for help. Talk to Your Loan Servicer and a Housing CounselorIf you can’t pay your mortgage on time, contact your loan servicer. Explain the reason for the problem […]
There are some obvious things that can hurt a credit score: paying your bills late, using too much available credit in proportion to your income, and defaulting on a loan. Some other financial transactions, however, don’t affect a credit score. You may even be surprised by them. Here are five things that don’t affect a […]