A damaged chimney is a fire hazard. Some problems can be identified by a homeowner, but many are only noticeable to a professional under specific conditions. If you see any signs of a problem, contact a chimney repair company. You should also have your chimney cleaned and inspected regularly. Common Chimney ProblemsMoisture in a chimney […]
When its time to move your art collection, here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind. Get Art Insurance Before you do anything, make sure every valuable item is insured. Art Handlers Moving masterpieces is a serious undertaking, and there are services available to handle it every step of the way. Qualified Movers […]
When you first moved into your home, the walls mightve been white and the floors covered in beige carpeting. Although this dcor choice is classic for some rentals and brand-new homes, you don’t have to live with the neutral colors. In fact, there are simple ways to transform your homes ambiance and add some flair […]
The interest rate on a mortgage will have a major impact on the amount of money you pay each month and the total you pay over the life of your home loan. Even a difference of a fraction of a percentage point can have a significant impact over decades, so you should do what you […]
Ensure that your smart home is safe from potential threats with these steps. Create a Separate Network Have a separate wifi network for your smart devices to run on, which can be done without having to purchase an additional router. Review Privacy Settings Do research to get a better sense of what the manufacturer or […]
Life can change fast. For example, you could lose your job, a family member could fall ill, or an accident could occur. For many homeowners, unforeseen circumstances like these can cause financial problems that hinder their ability to keep up with mortgage payments, putting them at risk of losing their house. If youre having trouble […]
When a lender processes your mortgage application, one of the most important factors itll consider is your debt-to-income ratio. If your ratio is too high, you may get approved for a mortgage with a high interest rate, which could add tens of thousands of dollars to your payments over the term of the loan”or your […]
Here are five ways to bring the outdoors into your home and improve your living space. Potted Plants and Trees Plants can boost your immune system, decrease blood pressure and improve your sleep cycle. Natural Materials Organic materials, such as wood and stone, allow your home to feel at one with the outside world. Oversized […]
Is it time to revamp your homes outdoor living situation? Whether you need to stage the backyard for prospective buyers or simply replace outdoor furniture thats seen one too many seasons, there are plenty of decor options for breathing new life into your backyard. Here are a few ideas to get you well on your […]
Creating a nostalgic feel is the perfect way to recall a bygone era and can be done in any room with these items. Jukebox A mint-condition jukebox is an entertaining statement piece that will never go out of style. Vintage Cameras Arranging vintage cameras from different eras on a shelf is likely going to evoke […]
If you dont pay your property tax bill, expect your lender to reach out. Property taxes can be one of those homeownership costs that you dont think about when shopping for a home. But theyll hit you sometime during the buying process”there’s no hiding from them. Property taxes vary by state, county and even city, […]
Your shower should be one of the cleanest spots in your house, but due to the constant presence of moisture, this can be tough. Try the following clean-shower hacks: – Keep a spray bottle of water and vinegar in your shower and spritz after your daily rinse. – A rubber squeegee”not unlike the ones you […]
If youre going to rent a truck when moving, one of the first questions the clerk will ask you is: Do you want to buy the optional insurance we offer? While your auto, homeowners or renters insurance may cover damage to a rental truck or your contents inside the truck during a move, the extra […]
Homebuyers who have a better credit history over a longer stretch of time than a shorter one may benefit by a change to the credit-scoring model used by Experian. Up until about 2016, mortgage lenders didnt use trended credit data and didnt differentiate between types of credit usage. What is trended credit data?” It’s the […]
Owning a pet can teach children important values that can help them throughout life. Giving and receiving unconditional love can teach acceptance and build self-confidence and trust. Recognizing and addressing a pet’s needs can build responsibility and compassion. Teaching a pet a new skill can help kids with patience and perseverance. Understanding how animals communicate […]
Your home is your sanctuary; however, if outside noises prevent you from getting the rest and relaxation you need, your health and productivity could suffer. Soundproofing your home doesn’t need to be a huge, expensive hassle. There are some easy ways to dampen the sound of your neighbor’s barking dog or reduce the noise of […]
Whether youve got a litter of kids or a baby on the way, childproofing your home is a preventative measure no family should go without. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends a number of safeguards to make your home an environment free from hazards. Here are five of those tips to help maximize […]
Many people dream of owning a home but feel overwhelmed by the idea of saving tens of thousands of dollars for a down payment. In some cases, borrowing money for a down payment can be a smart move, but there are some important caveats to consider. When Does It Make Sense to Borrow for a […]
Even though a burglary occursevery 20 secondsin the U.S., you can still protect yourself without installing top-dollar security features. Home burglary generally has a pattern; criminals are looking for an easy target they can rob fast. Learn from the pros. Here are five tips from career burglars you can use to defend your home and […]
Is it time to update your decor? Whether youre looking to spruce up your home before putting it on the market or you need new furniture for your next place, thoughtfully designed interiors are essential. For the fashionistas who want to bring haute couture into their house, these five luxury clothing brands have home collections […]
A mortgage lender looks at several factors when deciding whether to approve a loan application. A lending institution wants to know that a borrower has both the ability and the will to repay debts. If you have a high income and a low credit score, a lender may have reservations about approving your mortgage application. […]
Significant works of art require being exhibited in a way that does them justice. Heres what you need to know about displaying your art at home… Assess the Space Is the space best for a few large paintings or several smaller works? Group pieces that are connected in some way, like style, color or motif. […]
