This Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to freedom have made it possible for all of us to pursue our dreams, including the dream of home ownership.What Home Truly MeansHome is more than four walls and a roof, more than a place to lay your head at night, it is where memories are made, milestones are reached, and futures are built. It is the front porch where your friends and neighbors gather, the backyard where barbecues bring families together, and the neighborhood that welcomes … [Read More...]
If you have been thinking about investing in a foreclosure property, you will want to make sure the home you choose does not have major hidden issues. Before hiring a professional inspector, you can do a preliminary check by looking out for some of these common problem areas: CeilingsCeilings are typically made of plaster or plasterboard. Keep an eye out for: Cracks, holes, or uneven areas Dampness or mold growth Crumbling surfaces Bulging or cracked spots WallsWalls may show similar signs of damage as ceilings, but also look for: Loose skirting boards Dampness or rot Discoloration, … [Read More...]
There are a lot of financing options available to help you purchase real estate, especially if you meet credit guidelines. Most lenders prefer to offer 30-year mortgage loans. With a longer loan term, they collect more money in interest over the life of the loan, but if you have strong credit, a 15-year mortgage may be a better option, and one worth considering. Here's a breakdown of the two: What About a 30-Year Mortgage?Thirty-year mortgages are the most common option for homebuyers. Monthly payments are typically more affordable, which is why lenders frequently recommend them. You may even … [Read More...]
You may have heard of points when looking for real estate. Maybe your loan officer told you that you can trade points for a better interest rate. That sounds good, but just what are points? We'll give you a better idea of just what points are and how they work. What Are Points?Points, more specifically discount points, are a percentage of the total loan amount for the house that is pre-paid to the lender. Each point is worth one percent. Your lender may offer a lower interest rate for your mortgage loan if you buy discount points. What do Discount Points Cost?The cost of each point is … [Read More...]
Moving into a new home is exciting, but it can also come with unexpected expenses that quickly add up. Between packing supplies, transportation, and time off work, costs can spiral before you even settle in. But with a bit of planning and resourcefulness, you can cut down on unnecessary spending and keep more cash in your pocket.Plan Ahead and Get CreativeThe key to saving money during a move is preparation. Start gathering your moving supplies weeks in advance. The closer you get to moving day, the more likely you are to overspend in a panic.Save Money on BoxesBoxes may seem like a minor … [Read More...]
The latest inflation data has been released, offering insight into the near-term impact of the recent tariff measures. The results indicate that despite deflationary pressure on the economy, inflation continues to trend upward with the recent, ongoing tariff wars. While the tariffs have been temporarily suspended, their effects are already being felt—consumers are experiencing price increases, and retailers have already been positioning themselves to increase prices due to the impacts of the tariff policies. While wholesale and producer inflation has seen a modest decline, this was … [Read More...]
