Owning your first home can be overwhelming as you adjust to the new responsibilities and tasks of homeownership. While you’re busy turning the interior of your house into your own home, don’t neglect the view of from the curb. Here are some beginner’s tips for making wise and budget-friendly choices when it comes to your…
Author: Laine Smith
12 Acronyms You Might Hear During the Mortgage Process & What They Mean
Buying and financing a home, especially your first home, can be confusing when you’re new to the mortgage process and all of the lingo that comes with it. Knowing what these acronyms mean and how they affect your mortgage can make the experience less intimidating. Here are some common mortgage acronyms you might hear throughout your…
Construction 101: How to Choose the Right Home Builder
Buying a home comes with its own distinct set of choices and options, but when you choose to build a new home, the amount of choices increase immensely. Your home builder is one of the most important. Here’s how to determine which one is right for you.
Homeowner DIY: How to Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Area
Many homeowners spend countless hours rearranging and remodeling the interior of their home, but come springtime, transition from indoor to outdoor living. Spending time outdoors doesn’t mean having to forfeit the comforts of the indoors. Add value to your yard, patio, porch or another outdoor area of your home by transforming it into a relaxing…
Mortgage 101: The Real Estate Agent or the Mortgage Banker? Which Comes First When Buying a Home?
The first steps of homebuying often bring about questions regarding who homebuyers should consult with first: a mortgage lender or a real estate agent. This chicken vs. egg-like debate can lead to frustration and common mistakes for first-time homebuyers, which is why meeting with a mortgage lender should be all homebuyers’ first action when considering a home…
What’s Your Home Worth? 7 Factors That Impact Your Home Value
When it comes to selling, every homeowner is trying to get top dollar for their house. But what determines their home’s value? Here are several variables that could increase or decrease your resale value.
DIY Home Design: 6 Tips for Choosing Interior Paint Colors Like a Pro
Paint colors dictate a lot in a home. They can sway the mood of you and your guests, as well as the overall perception of your home. Whether you like bold or subtle color, here are several tips to creating a harmonious, complementary and interior-designer-worthy color palette for your home.
Saving Money: Top 9 Energy-Efficient Upgrades for Your Home Improvement Dollar
Considering some home improvements this winter or spring? Why not invest in some projects that will save you money in the long run. Energy-efficiency is a top priority for many homeowners whether they’re trying to whittle down high utility bills or trying to minimize their environmental footprint. Here are some of the best home improvements…
5 Home Loan Options for First-Time Homebuyers
From student loan debt, saving for a down payment and building mortgage-ready credit, it’s clear first-time homebuyers face different hurdles when it comes to buying a home. Here are some of the best options for home financing when preparing to buy your first home. FHA The FHA is the largest insurer on mortgages in the…
First-Time Homeowner Checklist: What You Need to Do Before Moving In
Congratulations on your new home purchase! Before diving in to the fun parts of being a first-time homeowner, there are several maintenance items you should take care of after closing on your home and before moving in. Here’s a checklist of what items you should tackle before you make your new house your home. Looking…