Paying your income taxes each year leaves your wallet a bit thin? There may be money hiding in your home that lessens your tax burden. Here are four places to look: 1. Home-Office Deduction If you work from home, you could qualify for a home-office deduction. Taking the deduction can be a bit complicated; so many people who qualify don't claim the exemption. An estimated 26 million Americans have home offices, but only 3.4 million claim them on their tax return. Perhaps that's why the Internal Revenue Service attempted to simplify the process in 2013. The write-off takes into account … [Read More...]
Your home should be a place of comfort and safety, but hidden dangers can pose serious risks to you and your family. Identifying and addressing these hazards is essential to maintaining a secure living environment. Here are some of the most common household dangers and how to prevent them. Electrical IssuesOutdated wiring, faulty electrical systems, and exposed wires can increase the risk of electrical fires and shocks. Regularly inspect your home’s electrical system and hire a licensed electrician for any needed repairs. Mold GrowthMold thrives in damp, warm environments and can cause … [Read More...]
When you’re working with a realtor, it’s easy to feel like you need to impress us with how much you know or worry that we’re judging your choices. Let me set the record straight—there are a lot of things I truly don’t care about. My focus is on helping you achieve your real estate goals, no matter where you’re starting from. Here are five things you never need to stress about with me: 1. How much research you’ve doneWhether you’ve been Googling every real estate term under the sun or you’re coming in with no clue where to start, I’ve … [Read More...]
Last week's reports were plentiful, but few had a greater impact on the lending and broader markets. The most significant among them were the Nonfarm Payrolls, Consumer Credit, and Consumer Sentiment reports. Currently, considerable movement within the government administration is contributing to widespread uncertainty and instability across various markets. Additionally, the recent outbreak of Avian Flu has driven poultry prices sharply higher, further adding to consumer unease. This uncertainty is reflected in the Consumer Sentiment reports, which have seen their most significant … [Read More...]
Last week's reports were plentiful, but few had a greater impact on the lending and broader markets. The most significant among them were the Nonfarm Payrolls, Consumer Credit, and Consumer Sentiment reports. Currently, considerable movement within the government administration is contributing to widespread uncertainty and instability across various markets. Additionally, the recent outbreak of Avian Flu has driven poultry prices sharply higher, further adding to consumer unease. This uncertainty is reflected in the Consumer Sentiment reports, which have seen their most significant … [Read More...]
In today’s competitive real estate market, bidding wars have become an all-too-common occurrence. As more buyers seek limited inventory, properties often receive multiple offers, creating a challenging and sometimes stressful environment. However, with the right strategies in place, you can navigate these bidding wars effectively and secure your dream home. Here are key strategies to help you stand out and win in a competitive market. 1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage One of the most important steps in a bidding war is ensuring your financial readiness. Sellers are more likely to … [Read More...]
