Buying a home is an exciting process, but for many people, it can also seem out of reach. While many renters would like to buy, there are several factors that may lead potential homebuyers to believe they may not be ready. These include credit score requirements, income, and debt levels, and the common myth that a 20 percent down payment is needed. Here is some good news: Qualifying for a mortgage may not be so far out of reach. Better Mortgage Terms While it is true that borrowers with Continue Reading ...

Moving to a new home can be an exciting undertaking, a fresh start that brings with it the potential for new friends, opportunities and experiences. For parents of young children, though, the process of adapting to a new home can be stressful. While you may have been proactive about averting safety hazards in your old house, a move to a new one calls for renewed awareness of anything that could potentially harm your kids. Unfortunately, the National Safety Council advises that more than a Continue Reading ...

While spring is typically the busiest period in real estate, particularly for families looking to get into a new home before the school year starts, the fall months have become increasingly active for those who have more flexibility or are looking for a good deal. With increased competition in many cities around the country, finding ways to simplify the home buying process while saving money is top of mind for potential home buyers. Many consumers are seeking real estate brokerages that make Continue Reading ...

4 Cold Weather Problems That Home Winterization Can Prevent When you start feeling those first hints of winter, the instinct to get ready kicks in. You may dig out your car’s snow brush, blanket, shovel and winter survival kit and place them in the trunk of your car. The winter coats and boots come out of storage, and you may pick up some extra mittens at the store. We do these things to protect ourselves from the cold when we’re out and about. But what do you do to protect your house Continue Reading ...

Home improvement projects are popular this time of year and you’ve certainly tackled your share of DIY to-dos in the past. But not this year. This year you realize it’s time to go big, to go bold, to set aside those traditional home improvement projects for another year and do something even bigger. Yes, this year, it’s time to renovate. Whether your plans include renovating one room, a floor or your entire home, there’s no denying that a renovation project greatly increases the Continue Reading ...

Think about your favorite moments and memories from past summers. The time you spent with family and friends, dining, playing games or simply enjoying one another’s company. Now, ask yourself this: How many of those summer memories took place outside, on the deck? The deck is the perfect spot for summer get-togethers and events. However, if yours is in need of a facelift or a complete re-do, now is the perfect time of year to complete a new outdoor living space customized to fit your Continue Reading ...