07
Nov
By Adrian Willanger
2 Comments
Real Estate, ,

The Trend of Downsizing and Tiny Homes

As far as purchasing a home goes, "bigger is better" has often been the mantra. However, the trend of downsizing and tiny homes has gained significant traction in recent years, prompting many to rethink their approach to living spaces. This shift towards smaller, more efficient living has far-reaching implications for our lifestyles, our environmental footprint, and the way we view material possessions. What Are Tiny Homes? Tiny homes, typically defined as dwellings with a total living space of 400 square feet or less, have been on the rise. These pint-sized abodes are designed with the intention of providing all the…
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26
Oct
By Adrian Willanger
10709 Comments
Homebuyer Tips, ,

Important Tips When Making a Down Payment for a Home

When it comes to purchasing a home, one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make is how much to put down as a down payment. Your down payment not only affects the amount you need to borrow but also plays a vital role in determining your mortgage interest rate and overall financial stability. Here are crucial tips to keep in mind when making a down payment for a home: Determine Your Budget and Financial Goals: Before you start setting aside money for a down payment, you must understand your budget and financial goals. Assess your current financial situation, including…
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20
Oct
By Adrian Willanger
2862 Comments
Short Sale, ,

How Will A Short Sale Affect Your Ability To Buy Another House In The Future?

The Short Sale and Your CreditOne of the most immediate consequences of a short sale is its impact on your credit score. When you sell your home for less than the amount owed on your mortgage, the lender reports the debt as "settled" or "paid less than the full amount," which can significantly lower your credit score. A lower credit score can make it challenging to obtain new credit, including a mortgage for a future home purchase. Lenders rely on your credit score to assess your creditworthiness, and a low score may lead to higher interest rates, larger down payments,…
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19
Oct
By Adrian Willanger
2 Comments
Selling Your Home, ,

Flaws You Cannot Hide By Staging Your Home

1. Structural Issues:Staging might make a home look beautiful, but it won't hide structural problems like foundation issues, plumbing leaks, or a damaged roof. These are issues that can't be disguised with a fresh coat of paint or strategically placed furniture. It's crucial to address these problems before putting your home on the market. 2. Strong Odors:Staging can help create a pleasant ambiance with the use of scents and air fresheners, but it can't mask persistent, unpleasant odors. Lingering pet smells, cigarette smoke, mold, or other foul odors are instant turn-offs for potential buyers. 3. Outdated Features:Staging can distract from…
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22
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Real Estate, ,

5 Things To Know About Severe Weather And Homeowners Insurance

The average homeowner feels secure knowing they have insurance in the event of a severe weather calamity. Most people believe that no matter what happens, they have paid for protection against disaster. Unfortunately, not every homeowners insurance policy provides full reimbursement from severe weather losses. Hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes and other rare catastrophes may not be covered under your current policy. Consider the impact of these extreme events and whether you are fully insured for the subsequent losses. 1: Hurricane Damage May Not Be Fully Covered The recent national mobilization to deal with the fallout from Hurricane Florence highlights just how…
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30
Jun
By Jim Hasek
Homebuyer Tips,

What to Look For During Your Home Inspection

Buying a new home is an exciting and significant milestone in anyone's life. However, it's essential to approach the homebuying process with caution and thoroughness to ensure that you're making a sound investment. One crucial step in the homebuying journey is the home inspection. A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a property's condition, aiming to uncover any potential issues or concerns that could affect its value or safety. Below are some tips to remember when navigating a home inspection. Roof and Exterior: The roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, so it's crucial to…
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