19
Jun
By Adrian Willanger
Homeowner Tips, ,

HUD’s Role in Homeownership and Supporting the American Dream

June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the value of owning a home and to promote opportunities for more Americans to achieve that goal. One of the key players helping make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers and those with limited financial resources, is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD plays a critical role in advancing the mission of National Homeownership Month by providing essential resources, education, and support for homebuyers. Established in 1965, HUD’s mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. This month is the…
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09
May
By Adrian Willanger
Homeowner Tips, ,

Important Steps to Take After Closing on Your Home

Congratulations! You have closed on your new home! After weeks (or even months) of searching, negotiating, and signing paperwork, you finally have the keys in hand. But before you kick back and start decorating, there are a few essential steps to take to protect your investment and make the transition as smooth as possible. Here’s a checklist of important things to do after closing on your home: Change the Locks and Update SecurityYou never know who might still have a key to your home, previous owners, contractors, or even neighbors. One of the first things you should do is change…
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08
May
By Adrian Willanger
Homeowner Tips, ,

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Artificial and Real Grass

When it comes to creating the perfect yard, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is choosing between real grass and artificial turf. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals for your outdoor space. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision that suits your home and needs. Real Grass: The Classic ChoicePros:There is nothing quite like the look and feel of a lush, natural lawn. Real grass offers a cooling effect during warmer months, improves air quality, and…
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11
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Homeowner Tips, ,

Millennials and the Pursuit of Homeownership

With rapid technological advancements and shifting societal norms, millennials find themselves facing a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to securing a mortgage. The journey toward homeownership for this generation is a multifaceted one, influenced by factors ranging from soaring student loan debt to evolving housing preferences. The Student Loan Conundrum: One of the primary obstacles that millennials face when considering homeownership is the burden of student loan debt. With the rising cost of education, many find themselves struggling with substantial loan balances, which can impact their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders typically assess debt-to-income…
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04
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Homeowner Tips, ,

Easy Ways To Get More From Your Home Garden

Growing a home garden creates beauty, oxygen and even food for our families to enjoy. If you're looking to get more from your home garden, here are four easy ways to improve a green thumb. A Good Foundation For Your Garden Good soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. By using quality soil, you can give your garden the best start possible. Adding a variety of organic matter to soil will give plants a happy home to grow in. Add two to three inches of organic matter to your garden bed at the beginning of each season. Compost, dried…
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27
Feb
By Adrian Willanger
Homeowner Tips, ,

What You May Not Know About Owner Financing When Buying a Home

Owner financing is an alternative home-buying method that many buyers and sellers overlook. Instead of securing a mortgage through a traditional lender, the buyer makes payments directly to the seller under agreed-upon terms. While this arrangement can be beneficial, there are key details to consider before choosing owner financing. 1. No Traditional Lender Involvement One of the biggest advantages of owner financing is that it bypasses banks and mortgage lenders. This can be helpful for buyers who may not qualify for a traditional loan due to credit history, self-employment income, or other financial factors. Instead, the buyer and seller agree…
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