There’s more that goes into buying a home for the first time besides shopping online for mortgage rates. To find the perfect home, you have to log off of the computer, get in your car and see homes for yourself. One way to do that is visiting open houses. First-time… read more →
The property you’ve fallen in love with has everything you want: open floor plan, updated kitchen, beautifully landscaped lawn. But it’s located near high-voltage power lines, and that’s risky. Right? The belief that living near power lines is dangerous has been around for generations. In fact, many researchers have studied whether proximity to… read more →
When renting, research a location and spend time in it before signing a lease. Of course affordability is at the top of most prospective renters’ list of must-haves when searching for an apartment. A bargain may seem like the ultimate win, but an apartment that fits into your lifestyle is essential… read more →
Shopping for the best mortgage involves more than just checking interest rates and loan terms. Many borrowers are surprised by the many additional costs involved in closing the loan. Almost all closing costs relate to fees that the mortgage lender is charged by a third-party company and then passes on… read more →
A properly locked door is your first line of defense against intruders. Of course, that defense is not very reliable if you’re not sure who has keys to those locks. There are many reasons for changing a lock, including: You’ve just moved into your house. You’ve lost a key. Your… read more →
Location is a huge factor in successful homeownership. Just a mile—in some cases just a city block—can make a difference in home values, health risks, crime and the general quality of life for you and your family. Everyone has different priorities, but neighborhoods that are more likely to cause trouble for… read more →
If you are selling your home and have gotten an offer, you may concerned about the prospective buyers asking you to make costly repairs that potentially could cut into your profit. Repair requests can be negotiated under most circumstances, but it’s important to recognize that your ability to negotiate depends… read more →
Does your home need a face lift? Are you sick of looking at your current bland walls? Are you looking to sell? Regardless, a fresh coat of paint can completely change the look of your home, making it feel like new again. Below are some of hottest trends in paint… read more →
Despite your best efforts at cleanliness, your carpet will eventually become the victim of drops, spills, accidents and whatever’s on the bottom of your shoes. To learn how professionals handle problem areas and keep carpets looking new follow these tips from a professional. Blot Stains, Don’t Rub Them Dab stains with… read more →
Home sellers who receive an abundance of offers might be tempted to grab the highest price and call it a deal. But that might not be the smartest way to choose the best offer of the bunch. A better approach is to consider a variety of factors, including the buyer’s… read more →