Buying a home is an exciting process, but for many people, it can also seem out of reach. While many renters would like to buy, there are several factors that may lead potential homebuyers to believe they may not be ready. These include credit score requirements, income, and debt levels, and the common myth that a 20 percent down payment is needed. Here is some good news: Qualifying for a mortgage may not be so far out of reach. Better Mortgage Terms While it is true that borrowers with Continue Reading ...

Real estate insight: Green home improvements boost value, shorten sale time Are you thinking of selling your house and want to know some of the best ways to boost your home's value, demand top dollar and potentially inspire a bidding war? Whether you're selling in a few months or a few years, there is one strategy that gets noticed in real estate markets across the United States: green home improvements. Green homes can sell faster and for more money than comparable houses without Continue Reading ...

Life can get hectic. While it is easy to become overwhelmed with busy schedules and everyday challenges, it is important to carve out personal time for relaxation and renewal. The practice of self-care and personal wellness is becoming a trend on the rise. To incorporate this trend into your daily routine, take a page from the luxury hotel playbook. Imagine what you would see, feel, smell and experience if you stepped into the bathroom of a five-star suite. Luxury bathrooms are designed to Continue Reading ...

A home’s curb appeal leaves a powerful first impression. Yet, according to the recent poll conducted by Ply Gem Building Products, only half of the homeowners say their home’s exterior reflects their personality. This is an especially surprising statistic since 81 percent of Americans say the exterior of a home shapes their view of the homeowner. With countless material options and accents like shutters and trim, there are several ways to add color to your home. Replacing old siding with Continue Reading ...

Moving to a new home can be an exciting undertaking, a fresh start that brings with it the potential for new friends, opportunities and experiences. For parents of young children, though, the process of adapting to a new home can be stressful. While you may have been proactive about averting safety hazards in your old house, a move to a new one calls for renewed awareness of anything that could potentially harm your kids. Unfortunately, the National Safety Council advises that more than a Continue Reading ...

While spring is typically the busiest period in real estate, particularly for families looking to get into a new home before the school year starts, the fall months have become increasingly active for those who have more flexibility or are looking for a good deal. With increased competition in many cities around the country, finding ways to simplify the home buying process while saving money is top of mind for potential home buyers. Many consumers are seeking real estate brokerages that make Continue Reading ...

Across America, decks have become a popular place for people to entertain guests or just relax. The greatest appeal? The elevated outdoor living areas offer a convenient option for enjoying the great outdoors in a comfortable, room-like space that’s somewhat removed from the elements. Average deck costing $9,450 and generating $10,000 in value Further, studies reveal adding a deck to your home pays for itself in terms of resale value. A 2016 report by the National Association of Realtors Continue Reading ...

Home improvement projects are popular this time of year and you’ve certainly tackled your share of DIY to-dos in the past. But not this year. This year you realize it’s time to go big, to go bold, to set aside those traditional home improvement projects for another year and do something even bigger. Yes, this year, it’s time to renovate. Whether your plans include renovating one room, a floor or your entire home, there’s no denying that a renovation project greatly increases the Continue Reading ...