Blog

30
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Moving with Children? Here’s How to Quickly Assess Whether a Community Is Family Friendly

If you're looking for a home that's in a family-friendly neighborhood, there are a few key things you can look for to make sure your new house is a good fit for both you and your children. Quality Public or Private Schools Are there good public schools nearby? If so, do they span from kindergarten all the way to high school? Finding a home in an area with a great elementary school can be a good fit for several years, but if you're looking for a home that will be convenient in the long-term it's important to consider your proximity…
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29
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

3 Things You Need to Consider Before Buying That Fixer-Upper Home

What Will It Cost? If you're going into a home expecting a few renovations costs, a minor detail here or there may not add up to much. However, if you're not interested in spending the big bucks on making changes, you'll want to estimate an approximate amount of how much the renovations you don't want to live without will amount to. By including all the necessary labor and materials, you'll be able to determine if the price-point of your offer will be worth it. Keep in mind that if there are any serious issues with the house, it may not…
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28
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Around The Home, ,

What Types of Coverage Are Included in Standard Home Insurance Policies? Let’s Take a Look

Every insurance policy is different and can provide certain levels of protection tailored towards the needs of the policy holder. However, there are some standard types of coverage that are included in most basic home insurance policies. Basic Levels Of Protection Most homeowner insurance policies will include some basic levels of protection and coverage. The main dwelling will be protected from many forms of damage and the insurance company will pay to repair the damaged dwelling. This will extend to other smaller structures on the property, like sheds and separate garages, but the level of coverage will differ. Damage is…
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27
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Tips

Credit Score Got You Concerned? Here’s 3 Ways to Get It Together

If you're worried about your bad credit, you'll want to do everything in your power to improve your rating as quickly as possible - especially if you are looking to purchase a home in the near future. Improving your credit rating can give you access to better interest rates on mortgages or even help you to get that job you're after. IMPORTANT! If you are currently involved in a home loan transaction, speak with your trusted mortgage lender before taking any action regarding your credit! So how can you boost your FICO score quickly and easily? Here's what you need…
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26
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Rates,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 26, 2016

Last week's economic news was abundant with releases on home builder sentiment, housing starts, building permits, sales of previously owned homes. The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve released its customary statement at the conclusion of its meeting; Fed Chair Janet Yellen also gave a press conference. Weekly readings on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were released as usual. NAHB: Builder Sentiment Increases in September Home builder confidence in housing market conditions increased in September according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. Builder confidence rose five points to 65; analysts expected a reading…
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23
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Home Seller Tips, ,

Selling Your Home This Autumn? Try Boosting Your Curb Appeal with These Inexpensive Upgrades

Curb appeal is the first impression that your home will have on potential buyers, so it's important to make it a good one. Try these simple budget upgrades to give your home the "WOW" factor that buyers are looking for! Crystal Clean As simple as it sounds, it is extremely important to make sure that your house is nice and clean on the outside. This is overlooked by sellers more than you'd think as they become so focused on perfecting the inside of their home that they forget about the exterior! Dirt streaks running down stucco or siding give the…
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