There are many do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement projects that can be completed on a budget and still have a significant impact. Enhancing the appearance and functionality of your home doesn't have to be costly or time-consuming. New Light Fixtures One simple and affordable way to update your home is by replacing old or outdated light fixtures. New light fixtures can give your home a fresh, modern look and can also help to improve the overall lighting in your living spaces. There is a wide variety of styles and price points to choose from, so you can find a light fixture that suits … [Read More...]
What is PMI? PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) is a type of insurance that lenders may require borrowers to pay if they have a down payment of less than 20% of the home's purchase price. The purpose of PMI is to protect the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan. However, once you have paid off enough of your mortgage or your home has appreciated in value, you may be able to get rid of PMI. Here are some ways to do so: Pay down your mortgage: If you make extra payments on your mortgage or pay more than the required monthly payment, you can build equity in your home faster and reduce … [Read More...]
Buying a home comes with numerous financial planning obligations. It's far from a turn-key operation and one of the significant challenges involves developing a working knowledge about things often outside your area of expertise. For example, working as an educator, police officer, investment banker or office staffer does not necessarily make you an expert about home repairs or insurance coverage. Yet, the average homeowner is tasked with carrying a certain level of homeowners insurance coverage without a strong working knowledge. Many homeowners just purchase enough insurance to cover the … [Read More...]
Comparing mortgages is a crucial step in the process of buying a home or refinancing an existing mortgage. Here are some reasons why: Save Money: Comparing mortgages can help you save money by finding the best interest rates and terms available. A lower interest rate can mean thousands of dollars in savings over the life of a mortgage. Avoid Pitfalls: By comparing mortgages, you can avoid pitfalls such as hidden fees, penalties, or other unfavorable terms that can cost you money and cause financial stress. Negotiate Better Terms: If you have a good understanding of what's available in the … [Read More...]
Last week’s economic news included reporting on construction spending, the Federal Reserve’s decision to raise its benchmark interest rate, and weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims.
Construction Spending Increases in March
The Commerce Department reported that month-to-month construction spending rose by 0.30 percent and year-over-year construction spending increased by $1.83 trillion. Residential construction fell by -0.20 percent in March, which was the tenth consecutive monthly decline in residential construction spending. Non-residential construction spending … [Read More...]
A land survey is an essential tool that is used to determine the exact boundaries of a piece of land or property. It is often required when buying, selling, or dividing land, and is also important for resolving property line disputes. Process: The process of land surveying typically involves a licensed surveyor visiting the property to take precise measurements and create a detailed map or plan of the land. This may include identifying any physical features of the property, such as trees, buildings, or natural landmarks, as well as any easements or encroachments. Types: There are several … [Read More...]