No one can tell you when you’re ready to become a homeowner. But it’s probably fair to say a lot of first-time buyers wish otherwise. Buying a home is often one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. It’s also among the most infrequent. Knowing you’re prepared to buy a… read more →
Congratulations! You decided to accept that new job offer in another city or finally closed on the home of your dreams. And while you’re excited about taking that next step, you’re facing a huge frustration: You need to pack all your belongings into boxes, and lug it into another home. Moving is… read more →
Summer signals the start of two hallowed seasons: homebuying and baseball. Like the national pastime, purchasing a home supposedly comes with its own set of “unwritten rules.” Conventional wisdom and considered opinion have long led consumers to believe you never make an offer on the first home you tour, or… read more →
In a perfect world, landlords and tenants would work together like a well-oiled machine, both generously doing their part to keep each other happy and not disturb their neighbors’ “peaceful enjoyment of the premises,” as phrased in Mississippi’s landlord-tenant law. In fact, lots of tenant-landlord relationships fit this description, but we’ve… read more →
Most renters sign a standard 12-month lease when renting an apartment, but there is another option available: the month-to-month lease. This type of lease certainly isn’t right for everyone, but given the right circumstances, it may be exactly what you need. Pros of a month-to-month lease Some renters prefer shorter-term… read more →
You’ve found a great rental home in your price range and are ready to move in. But before you pack your bags and boxes and load up the moving truck, you’ll want to do a walkthrough. Essentially, it’s like running through a home safety checklist; you walk through the apartment with your… read more →
Everyone dreams of calling a house their home. Nothing can make you feel more secure than becoming a homeowner, unless buying will create financial problems of its own. Make sure you do the research associated with making this life changing transition. Here are a few points to consider as you weigh… read more →
Rent, heat, electricity, student loans and groceries—living expenses can add up quickly. While some of these expenses can’t be avoided (you do, after all, need a place to live), others are unnecessarily causing you to go over your monthly budget. Whether it’s figuring out effective ways to reduce your bills or… read more →
In recent years, officials in many of the nation’s most expensive housing markets have embraced “micro-apartments” as a way to provide less-expensive housing for young renters. They are betting that the tiny apartments — generally the size of a hotel room for about half the rent of a full-size apartment… read more →
When you move into a rental, you know you’ll have to pay the rent each month. But what about your pet? Four-legged family members can get slapped with monthly dues too — it’s often called “pet rent,” and you may be faced with paying it. But should you? Typically, pet owners pay… read more →