The doors, the windows, and most likely the azalea bush by the driveway—you’d expect those to stay with the new house you just bought, and you’d be right. But what stays in the house when you buy it? Who claims the washer and dryer? Will the sellers bequeath the lawn mower? What… read more →
Buying a house is slightly more complex when looking for a place to raise a family. A single person may be willing to settle for a smaller home or one in a less attractive location. It could be difficult, however, to raise children in such an environment—they need a place not only… read more →
Homeowners who decide they’re ready to become move-up buyers face a chicken-or-egg dilemma: Should they see their current home first and then buy another, or buy a new one and then sell? The answer depends on several factors, including your local market conditions, your financing options and your feelings about potentially… read more →
VA appraisals are a critical part of the 70-year-old VA loans benefit program. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. VA appraisals help ensure veterans purchase homes that are safe, structurally sound and salable. There are two elements: a valuation of the property and an assessment of property conditions. We’ll take a… read more →
When involved in the sale of a home, it’s crucial for the buyer and seller to understand the details of the real estate contract before it’s signed and, in particular, to recognize the points at which the contract can be cancelled without penalty. A real estate contract, once signed by… read more →
Finding an apartment is easy but what about after you move in? There are roommates to deal with, neighborhoods to explore and people to meet. Start by using the right renter technology to make your life streamlined and enjoyable. Here are 5 new apps that can help make your renting experience… read more →
When you apply for a loan,you need to submit a ton of documentation and answer a bunch of questions from your lender. Turning over all this information about your personal finances and financial history may seem intrusive, but it makes sense: The lender needs to gather all the information they can to decide on the… read more →
Choosing color palettes can strike fear in the hearts of even the most confident homeowner. Many people struggle to decide which color scheme will best complement the inside of their homes. They don’t trust their ability to match complementary shades. Others fear they may quickly tire of the color palette they… read more →
Summer may be real estate’s busy season, but winter offers great opportunities for buying a house, especially for renters looking to become homeowners, growing families trading up to larger houses and baby boomers seeking homes to fit their evolving lifestyles. Generally speaking, your housing choices during the late fall are still healthy. October and… read more →
While many of us would be fearful of repairing a roof or installing an electrical outlet, there are plenty of things that the average homeowner can—and should—know how to do. Here are five projects that will boost your handyman (or handywoman) confidence and save you money by not having to… read more →