T H E  B L O G

Is your linen closet bulding at the seams? For many fpeople, linen closets turn into catch-all spots for much more than just sheets and towels - paper products, extra toiletries and other household supplies come to mind. So how can you clean things up? Here are five tips to get you started on making (and keeping) your linen closet more organized, and things easier to find. Clean and Purge It's easy for things to get stuck in the back of a closet if you don't use them every day. Are there old sheets and towels that are too ratty to use, so they're just stuffed in the back? Are there cleaners or bathroom products you've had for far too long? Toss them and start over.  Install Adjustable Shelves If you can, install adjustable shelves in your linen closet. This helps keep the space organized as you can adjust shelving to fit your items rather than trying to put things wherever they'll go. There are many closet organizing systems to choose from, in a wide range of prices. Head to my favorite, The Container Store, for a huge array of options. The big box stores like Target, Home Depot and Lowes also offer many storage options. There's definitely something to fit both your needs and your budget. Fold Sheets and Towels efficiently To maximize space, be sure to fold your sheets and towels efficiently. Experiment with space-saving ways to fold your bath towels, hand towels and sheets. Have you discovered that rolling your clothes saves space in your suitcse? Try rolling your towels! Just be consistent so that you can stack each type of item neatly. The whole purpose of neatening and organizing is so you won't have items toppling and messing things up again! Use Clear Bins For smaller items like extra bathroom items or cleaning products, invest in clear bins so you can see what you have when you need it. This will stop you from having to dig around to find what you're looking for - and from putting things back in the wrong places. Add a Fresh Scent Unused sheets and towels can begin to smell a little musty if they're not regularly used. Prevent this by using a fresh scent in your linen closet. Lavender or cedar sachets are an excellent choice to help you keep your linens smelling fresh every time you pull them out.  

Transform Your Kitchen on a Budget Your kitchen isn't just a place to cook, It's where family and friends tend to gather. It still needs to serve its intended functions, which means it needs to be designed in the best way possible for you to cook, serve and provide storage. Total kitchen renovations can run into the tens of thousands of dollars. If you want to give your kitchen a refresh, you don't have to spend that much.  Here are a few ways to transform your kitchen on a budget.  Declutter Start by decluttering and reorganizing what you have. Do you really need 3 pie cutters and five vegetable peelers? Is your spatula jammed in the back of a drawer on the other side of the kitchen from the stove? If you make your kitchen more accessible by moving things to better places, you may find that your kitchen is just fine.  Install Open Shelving Do you need more storage space but don't have the space or budget to install more cabinets? Open shelves are one of the many ways you can resolve this issue, and they are not only a classic look but also a vrey fasionable one. There may be spots under current cabinets, over your refrigerator or on an empty wall where you can install shelves and store things that look good on display. They're also a great way to add personality and a pop of color to a kitchen that is more monotone. Paint or Wallpaper The easiest thing to do to refresh any room on a budget is paint. Choose a new color or neutral tone that will make you happy again in your kitchen. Painting is relatively easy to do on your own and doesn't have to cost much money. Another option is to add an accent wall with some wallpaper. Don't go crazy - just one wall is plenty! Backsplash Update Is your backsplash an outdated tile, a color you don't love or a material that's never quite worked for you? There are sooooo many new options for back splashes, including peel-and-stick tiles that have the look and feel of the real thing. They're easy to install and will refresh the look. Classic subway tile is a timeless option, and it is available in dozens of colors, sizes and textures. New lighting Replacing light fixtures can give a brand new look to your kitchen. Many fixtures feature LED lights that can better illuminate your workstations and save electricity, too. These LED features come in all sorts of styles, so you can stick to something similar to what you currently have, or put in something with a completely different look and feel than what you had before.  Faucets and Fixtures Faucets and other fixtures are an easy fix too. Choose a different finish to create a whole new look. Replacing the handles and knobs on your cabinets is super easy. High-arc (or "gooseneck") faucets provide a modern feel with function - they're great for washing larger pots and pans, and they look good, too! They're are even versions that are touchless. You can also replace some of your countertop appliances to fit your new look. Or go bold and go with that pink stand mixer with your new gold cabinet hardware! Upgrading Before Selling Are you thinking of selling and updating your kitchen first? Contact us today and we'll discuss how our staging team can help!   

As you thinking about making a move and wondering if winter is a good or bad time to sell? If your current living situation no longer meets your needs (or wants), and if you want to remedy that soon, then give some serious thought to moving during the winter!  Here are three reasons you may want to consider selling soon 1. Get One Step Ahead of Other Sellers In general, homeowners are less likely to list their houses toward the end of the year. That’s because people get busy around the holidays and deprioritize selling their house until the start of the new year when their schedules and social calendars calm down. Selling now, while other homeowners may hold off until after the holidays, can help your house stand out, putting you ahead of any competition. 2. Get in Front of Serious Buyers Even though housing supply has increased a bit this year as buyer demand has moderated, it’s still low overall. That means there aren’t enough homes on the market today, especially as millennials reach their peak homebuying years.  Serious buyers will still be looking this winter and your house may be exactly what they’re searching for. If you list your house now, you’ll be able to get in front of the eager buyers who are hoping to make a move before the year ends. The majority of the "looky-loos" who just like to hit open houses, or who present low-ball offers, will be busy with the demands of the holidays. 3. Get a Great Chance To Move Up Today’s homeowners have record amounts of equity.  According to CoreLogic the average amount of equity per mortgage holder has climbed to almost $300,000. Yes, an average of $300,000! That’s an all-time high. That means the equity you have in your house right now could cover some, if not all, of the down payment on the home of your dreams.  And we know that the more money you put down, the better an offer looks to a seller! Bottom Line If you’re thinking about selling your house, don’t delay your plans just because the cold is here and the holidays are looming. Get in touch and we'll get the ball rolling for you!

This article from Realtor.com takes a look at the major causes of house fires and how to prevent them. Deadly house fires are growing in frequency—and many homeowners have less time to get to safety. Newer homes and furnishings are burning faster, research shows, giving owners just three to four minutes to evacuate when a fire breaks out. Thirty years ago, when homes were built to different standards, owners had about 17 minutes to evacuate. While observing National Fire Prevention Week, which runs through Saturday, fire officials are urging homeowners to take greater precautions. “The number of home fire deaths is going up,” says Steve Kerber, vice president and executive director of the Fire Safety Research Institue. “In just three minutes or less, a room could be more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and filled with deadly levels of toxic gas from the smoke.” FSRI recommends homeowners take the following precautions: Make an escape plan. Every household should have a fire escape plan, Kerber says. However, one in three Americans says they do not have one—mostly because they’ve never thought to, according to an FSRI survey. Have a plan A, B and C that identifies two ways to get out of every room. If you cannot escape, plan C should be getting behind a closed door, turning on the light and dialing 911 for help. Check smoke alarms regularly. Three out of five home fire deaths are attributed to properties without a working smoke detector, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. Check smoke detectors monthly. Change them out every 10 years. Make sure they are installed in all bedrooms and on all levels of the home, including the basement. Close bedroom doors when sleeping. FSRI has launched a campaign, "Close Before You Doze,” after conducting research showing the protective barrier a door can offer in the event of a house fire. A closed door can prevent deadly levels of carbon monoxide, smoke and flames from entering a room. Further, a 900-degree Fahrenheit temperature difference can exist between a room with an open door and a closed door. “Smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death in home fires,” Kerber says. “Smoke from a home fire is thick and black, incredibly hot and filled with toxic chemicals. It moves extremely fast. Smoke from a fire in a living room can fill a one-story home or apartment—and everywhere that isn’t blocked by a closed door—in a matter of minutes.” Cooking is the number one cause of house fires and was behind about 50% of them from 2015 to 2019, according to the NFPA. Many of those fires involved a stove and people walking away from the food while still cooking. Fire officials say that there are only about 30 to 45 seconds to react before a fire can quickly get out of hand. Another leading cause of house fires is heating equipment, particularly space heaters. The NFPA urges homeowners to turn off portable heaters whenever leaving a room or sleeping. Also, space heaters should be kept at least three feet away from furniture, bedding or other flammable items.

Are you thinking of buying a home but don't know what to budget for it? Or how to save money for the purchase?  To be able to properly budget, you'll need to understand some of the costs you might encounter.   Here are some costs you can expect. Down Payment Saving for your down payment is probably the first thing you think of as you contemplate buying a home. But do you know how much you’ll need to save? While each situation is different, there’s a common misconception that putting 20% down toward your purchase is required. That is a myth, or at least it's a truth that didn't exist when your grandparents were buying a home!  The right amount to save and put down on a home depends on your current savings and your home buying goals.  What you will need: Closing Costs Make sure you budget for closing costs, which are a comprised of fees and payments made to the various people involved in your transaction. These fees vary by transaction and by the lender you use to get your mortgage. They usually are 2-5% of the mortgage, so it can be a hefty expense. Earnest Money Deposit An EMD is money you pay as a show of good faith when you make an offer on a house. In Massachusetts, you usually will be asked to put down $1,000 with your initial offer to purchase.  After the inspection period, when you sign the actual Purchase and Sale (P&S) Agreement, there will be a second deposit required. Most sellers will look for a total of 5% or more of the purchase price to be paid with the offer and P&S amount combined. This deposit works like a credit. It’s not an added expense – it’s paying a portion of your costs upfront. You’re using some of the money you already saved for your purchase to show the seller you’re committed and serious about their house.  This EMD doesn’t guarantee your offer will be accepted but in general if you make a good deposit you stand a better chance. Bottom Line Let us put our years of experience and our connections with superior lenders to work for you, to help you get that dream home!

Should You Buy a Vacation Rental Property? A second home or vacation rental is often a dream of many people. But is a vacation rental a sound investment? It can be the foundation for wonderful memories for you and your family, but you may also be thinking about the possibility of renting it out to make some extra money.  As with any real estate, style, size and location will have a big impact on both how much you'll pay for the property and how much income you will make. Here are 6 things to consider if you're thinking of investing in a vacation rental.  Revenue can be seasonal – It's a rare property whose income doesn't ebb and flow with the seasons. And remember, you can attract higher rents in peak periods. The downside is, this might be when you wish to spend your time at the property. So if you buy that condo on a golf course in Florida, make sure you don't mind golfing in the shoulder seasons. In addition, check the rental rules and regulations in any condo complex, as many do not allow short term rentals, some with as high as 90 days minimum rental periods! Location is critical – This will determine your income more than any other factor. Properties near the water and close to ski areas will do very well compared with those in a town several miles from the coast or mountains. Try to find somewhere that's a popular destination. Calculate costs – Due diligence is critical to ensure the rental does not become a cash-flow headache. Be sure you can handle any mortgage costs, as well as insurance, taxes, maintenance, cleaning, and the fees taken by a property management company if you choose not to do everything yourself. Don't underestimate maintenance – You'll find the property will stand empty for weeks at a time, and this can lead to problems going unattended. Renters can also cause damage or break items that you need to have in order to continue renting. Take this into consideration when calculating maintenance costs. Check tax benefits – Use a professional financial adviser to maximize any opportunity to gain tax advantages and write-offs from your rental.  Don't be blindsided – If you spend a certain number of days in a vacation property or more than 10% of the days that it's rented, you could lose all tax benefits. Talk to your professional financial adviser to get the latest tax rules. So are you ready to think about purchasing a property? We have contacts worldwide! Let's chat and get the ball rolling.

Retirement is one of the biggest life changes many people face. Retirement  can have a major impact on what you need from your home, and if you're planning to do more of the things you enjoy, like traveling, visiting with loved ones, or taking on new hobbies, you may want to focus less on your home and more on what's important in this new stage of life! As your lifestyle changes, what you need and want in your home likely changes, too. Downsizing can be just the ticket. You Can Find the Right Home for Your Needs The National Association of Realtors found that the need for a smaller home, the desire to be closer to loved ones, and retirement itself as three of the top reasons homebuyers over the age of 55 make a move.  Moving into a smaller home can open your schedule up so you can spend less time maintaining your home and more time with the people you love or exploring newfound hobbies, all of which can lead to less stress and more happiness!  Your Equity Can Make a Big Impact When You Downsize Have you been in your home for a while? Chances are you have a good deal of equity, which is a great help should you decide to downsize. So, you may have more equity than you realize because of the record levels of home price appreciation over the past year. Those equity gains could allow you to make a bigger down payment on your next home. And putting more money down can lead to a smaller monthly mortgage payment, which can give you greater financial freedom. It can also be a significant help in today's competitive housing market, since offering more money up front could help your offer stand out. Bottom Line If you’ve recently retired or plan to soon, your needs are likely changing. That means now may be the perfect time to downsize. Let's take a few minutes to chat and see if now makes sense for you to start looking at getting into a smaller home!

You don't have to live in a hurricane prone area to get roof damage. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so it's important to keep it in good shape.  Roofs are susceptible to a number of problems, which is why it's important to know how to spot them. Here are four common roofing problems and how to spot them. Shingle DamageOne of the most common roofing problems is damage to the shingles. This can be caused by a variety of things, including high winds, falling tree limbs, and hail. It can also be caused by improper installation. If you notice that some of your shingles are cracked, missing, or otherwise damaged, it's important to have them replaced as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could end up with leaks or other more serious problems. LeaksAnother common roofing problem is leaks. These can be caused by a number of things, including damaged shingles, flashing that's not installed correctly, or gutters that are clogged or leaking. If you notice any leaks in your roof, it's important to have them repaired as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could end up with water damage or mold growth in your home.  You don't want to wait until you see stains on your ceilings! Ice DamsAnother common problem in wintertime, especially here in New England, is ice dams. These occur when heat escapes from your home and melts the snow on your roof. The water then runs down to the edge of your roof and freezes again, creating a dam that prevents melting snow from running off your roof properly. Ice dams can cause serious damage to your roof if they're not dealt with promptly, so it's important to be on the lookout for them during the winter months. A good idea is to invest in a roof rake, and if you have snow building up in corners or over porch/entry roofs, use the rake to remove the snow. Ventilation ProblemsProper ventilation is essential for keeping your roof in good condition. Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture can build up under your roof and cause a variety of problems, including attic condensation, mold growth, and rotting wood. If you think you might have a ventilation problem, it's important to have it checked out by a professional so that they can recommend a solution.  If you notice any issues with your roof, don't hesitate to contact a professional for help. You don't want to have to deal with damage that could have been prevented!

What are the Benefits of a VA Loan? Believe it or not, buying a home doesn’t always require a traditional 20% down payment. If you’re a current or former member of the U.S. Military, you may qualify for a VA loan, which allows you to purchase a home without a down payment. That’s just one of the advantages you receive from a VA loan. Keep reading to explore the additional home loan benefits of VA loans. What Is a VA Loan? A VA loan is a mortgage loan issued under a program designed for Active and Veteran Service Members and their Surviving Spouses. VA home loans are offered through private mortgage lenders, but they’re ultimately backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which was previously known as the “Veterans Administration.” Several types of VA loans exist. These include: Purchase loans Cash-out refinance loans Interest rate reduction refinance loans Native American direct loans The program allows you to use a VA loan to purchase a home or tap into your home’s equity to make home improvements. When using a VA loan to purchase a home, the loan can fund up to 100% of the home’s value, which is how you eliminate the need for a down payment. Who Qualifies for a VA Loan? VA loans are designed for Veterans, Active-Duty Service Members, or their Surviving Spouses. To qualify for a VA loan, you’ll need to provide proof of your Military service and meet the other eligibility requirements set forth by both the VA and your VA-approved lender. The following items detail the requirements to secure a VA loan: Certificate of Eligibility (COE) First, you’ll need to provide your lender with documentation proving your Military service. This document is known as a certificate of eligibility (COE) and can be obtained from the VA website. The department may request that you provide additional service-related documentation which confirms your status as Active Duty or a Military Veteran. Credit Score On the one hand, the VA does not have a minimum requirement for your personal credit score. But VA lenders can have different eligibility requirements, so it’s important to check with each lender before applying for any type of loan. Generally speaking, it’s easier to qualify for a VA loan than a conventional loan, though some mortgage lenders may charge a fee to applicants with less-than-stellar credit. Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) All lenders will look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) before approving you for a loan. Your DTI is calculated by dividing your monthly debts by your monthly income. Most VA lenders will approve loans if your DTI is 45% or lower, though, as with your credit score, this threshold can vary considerably between lenders. The VA Funding Fee Approved applicants will have to pay a modest VA funding fee. This fee helps support the VA program so that other Veterans and their families can receive the benefits of a VA loan. This fee is a percentage of your total loan amount, which can vary depending on how much you’re borrowing. The funding fee doesn’t have to be paid upfront, nor does it have to be paid at closing. You can roll this funding fee into your regular monthly payments to make it easier to cover. However, you may be eligible for a refund or a waiver of this funding fee if you have service-connected disabilities. Contact the Department of Veterans Affairs to see if you qualify. Property Requirements To qualify for a VA loan, the property you are buying must meet the minimum property requirements. The property itself must be: A conventional family home The borrower’s primary residence Free of any structural defects (e.g. rot, termite infestations, etc.) Free of any mechanical or electrical issues affecting safety Able to supply adequate heating These restrictions mean you can’t use a VA loan for commercial property or real estate investing. But homebuyers will find no restriction on the home’s geographic location, which allows you to use this loan program for any home in the U.S. However, if you want to buy a condo with a VA loan, you’ll need to search the approved condo database on the Department of Veterans Affairs website.  Benefits of a VA Loan VA loans make particularly great options for first-time homebuyers. If you or your spouse are a current or former member of the U.S. Military, you have access to the following benefits of a VA loan:  - No Down Payment One of the primary benefits of a VA loan is eliminating the need for a down payment. Traditionally, homebuyers could expect to make a 20% down payment when purchasing a house. And while this requirement can vary by loan program and lender, a VA loan eliminates this requirement altogether. Of course, while this removes one financial barrier for qualifying applicants, the flip side is that you’ll be making a higher monthly mortgage payment, so make sure to factor this into your overall budget to ensure you find a home in your price range.  - No Private Mortgage Insurance What is private mortgage insurance? Typically, when you purchase a home with a down payment of under 20%, the lender requires you to purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI). The actual cost of your PMI can vary but usually ranges from 0.1% to 2% of every $100,000 you borrow. So for instance, if you purchase a $300,000 home, you could find yourself paying an additional $100 to $250 each month. A VA loan requires no PMI payment because the VA guarantees at least a portion of the loan, reducing the risk lenders take in providing you with a mortgage. As a result, qualifying homebuyers can purchase a home with no money down and no additional monthly mortgage insurance fees.  - Lower Interest Rates and Closing Costs While the department backs VA loans, they are originated and funded by private mortgage lenders. This setup means that U.S. banks, credit unions, and mortgage lenders must compete to offer the best loan rates and fees. Homebuyers can therefore compare lenders to find the best interest rates. The upshot of this is that VA loans typically have lower interest rates than conventional mortgages, which can reduce your monthly mortgage premiums. Secondly, VA loans offer lower closing costs. A “closing cost” is a fee you pay to the lender in return for their assistance. VA loans have specific restrictions on what closing costs your lender is permitted to charge, limiting costs such as the origination fee and prohibiting prepayment penalties or attorney fees.  - Easier to Qualify If you’ve read this far, you probably already qualify based on your Military career or your spouse’s. But beyond this basic requirement, VA loans are easier to qualify for than other mortgage types. For one thing, you can qualify for a VA loan even if you have a low credit score, with some lenders willing to work with borrowers with credit scores in the 550 range. Additionally, lenders are more willing to work with Veterans with a higher debt-to-income ratio — as high as 45% — which can reduce the barriers to home loan eligibility.  - Government Guarantee The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees all VA loans. This setup means that the government is on the hook for at least a percentage of the total loan amount in the event of a default. Such backing is mainly good news for lenders, who take on less risk when extending these types of home loans. But recipients of VA home loans also benefit from this guarantee since lenders can adopt less-stringent eligibility requirements.  - Assumable Loans Understandably, first-time homebuyers may be looking for a “starter home,” with plans to sell the property at a later date. The good news is that most VA loans are “assumable.” This designation means you can transfer your current VA loan to another buyer if that buyer is also eligible for a VA loan. An assumable loan can increase the resale value of your home since future buyers can take on the low mortgage rates of your current loan if interest rates have risen. Alternatives to VA Loans Despite the benefits of a VA loan, there may be times when you wish to use a different type of loan entirely. For instance, if you have strong credit and enough savings for a 20% down payment, you may qualify for better rates and terms with a conventional mortgage. You might consider other first-time home loan options if you’re not eligible for a VA loan. If you’re buying a home in a rural or suburban area, you may qualify for a USDA loan, which will also allow you to purchase a home with no down payment. Otherwise, you might look into an FHA loan backed by the Federal Housing Administration, which offers rates as low as 3.5% for qualified buyers. Thank You for Your Service VA loans are just one way of thanking the dedicated personnel of the U.S. Military for their sacrificial service. This mortgage vehicle can put homeownership well within reach and provide you and your family with some much-needed comfort and stability.

There's more to consider than just mortgage interest rates when you decide to purchase a home. What else? Well, consider the non-financial reasons it may make sense to make a move. When you add the financial and non-financial reasons together, you just can't beat being a homeowner! Homeowners Can Make Their Home Truly Their Own Owning your home allows you to have a space you can customize to your heart’s desire. That can bring you added happiness. Making updates or remodeling a home can help you feel more at ease as well as more comfortable in your living space.  Whether it's something smaller like painting a room, something that takes a bit more effort and cost like refinishing flooring, or something big like converting an attic or basement to living space, these are "feel good" projects. And as a homeowner, unless there are specific homeowner’s association requirements, you typically won’t have to worry about the changes you can and can’t make.  But if you rent, you likely will not have much freedom to do anything other than paint.  Even then, you may be required to revert back to the original paint color at the end of your lease. A Sense of Achievement Taking care of a home is a large responsibility, but it’s one you can take pride in and feel a sense of achievement and accomplishment. While you'll need to maintain the home and pay property taxes and other costs you won't encounter as a renter, as a property owner you are taking care of your own investment, not just adding to your landlord's investment income. Homeownership is one of the best investment strategies around! Homeownership Can Help Forge a Connection Living in a community and putting down roots can help create a sense of connection to your community and to those who live in your neighborhood and surrounding areas. Stop Rent Worries We all have heard about high rent increases - and rents don't go down, only up! Why not lock into a specific payment each month with a mortgage.  You'll find it not only easier to budget but also less stressful than wondering how much your landlord is going to raise your rent, or if your landlord is going to decide to sell your property.  Put your money into your own property, and enjoy living in your own space! You’re likely feeling the impact in your day-to-day life as you watch the cost of goods and services climb. Your wallet is likely stretched thinner. Are you uncertain about the economy and wondering if you should by a home now?  The latest economis data shows the inflation rate is still high, remaining around 8%. This news impacted the stock market and added to concerns about a recession.  Homeownership Is Historically a Great Hedge Against Inflation In an inflationary economy, prices rise across the board.  Homeownership has historically, consistently shown to be a great hedge against those rising costs because you can lock in your fixed rate mortgage payment for the duration of your loan. That helps stabilize some of your monthly expenses. While property taxes will undoubtedly rise (do taxes ever go down?) and some other monthly expenses like good and transportation may creep up, your monthly housing payment basically remains the same. This is especially important because with rents as high as they are now, you're protecting yourself against rent hikes by owning your own home.  Rents have risen by 7.2%, the highest pace in 40 years.  Yes, 40 years!  And a recent survey by realtor.com showed that 72% of landlords plan to raise the rent on their properties in the coming year. The Bottom Line Buy that house! We can help you find your dream home, so connect with a member of The Carroll Group today and let's get you moving.  

Are you looking for a home, or thinking about jumping into the home-buying pool? If so, you probably want to secure the lowest interest rate possible for your home loan, and that may seem confusing! Especially with the dramatic rise in interest rates that has followed record-low rates. To get the best rate possible, focus on a few key items, and check with several trusted lenders (we can supply a list of some we often work with) because different banks have different programs. Credit Score Credit scores can play a big role in your mortgage rate.  Why? Because lenders have more confidence in qualifying buyers if they can see that you've paid back previous loans as terms indicated, and that you've wisely used your credit.  You'll be looked upon morre favorably if your credit history is strong.  If your credit could use some boosting, get advice from your lender, who is sure to have some tips for increasing your credit worthiness both in the near term and long term. Loan Type There are many types of loans, each offering different terms for qualified buyers. The most well known are conventional, FHA and VA loans, but there are also other types that aren't as common.  Interest rates can be very different depending on the type of loan.  Plus, there are many first time homebuyer and other programs available that are specific to certain cities and towns. Don't miss out on any options!  A knowledgeable lender can explain the various loan programs and their requirements. Loan Term Another factor to consider is the term of your loan. Just like with location and loan types, you have options.  These options will change not only the length of your loan term, but also your monthly payment - and the total amount you will pay over the life of the loan.  Down Payment If you’re a current homeowner looking to sell and make a move, you can use thehome equity you've got in your home toward the down payment on your next home. Building equity is a major reason to own a home in the first place!  A larger down payment generally means you'll qualify for a lower interest rate.  The more money you put down on a house, the less risk the bank is taking since it is lending you less. There's a lot to take into consideration when you're applying for a mortgage, so be sure to speak with a seasoned lender - and one of our experienced agents!   Bottom Line These are just few factors that can help determine your mortgage rate if you’re buying a home. The best thing you can do is have a team of professionals on your side. Connect with a local real estate professional and a trusted lender so you have the expert advice you need in each step of the process.

What You Need to Know About Your Local Market Today's real estate market is shifting quickly, so if you're thinking of doing any remodeling or renovation projects before listing your home, be sure you're going to get your investment back. These are just some things we will help guide you through when you're considering listing your home. Since the supply of homes for sale has increased this year, today’s buyers have more options than they had last year. That may mean you’re not able to ignore some of those repairs or cosmetic updates you could have skipped in previous months.  You want to make your home stand out and be attractive to buyers.  So make smart, selective updates to your home.   Not all renovation projects are equal, so focus on those that will get you the best return on your investment. Right now, hardwood flooring has the most significant value, but other projects like a new roof or upgrading insulation also have a great return.  An experienced, local agent can walk through your home and give you advice on what should be repaired, replaced or refinished. We offer a complimentary staging consultation as well, which helps present a vision of what your home will look like when it hits the market.  That all-important first impression is key in getting potential buyers in to view your home - and knowing what upgrades buyers are looking for is key to getting you the best price for your home!  

Like so many people these days, are you working from home? Of have you been working from home for a while, and thinking you need to give your office a bit of a makeover? Try these ideas for making your home office more attractive and comfortable, and to help boost your productivity. Organize, Organize, Organize Books, files, papers and supplies can become cluttered very quickly. Invest in consoles with drawers or cabinets that can be kept closed so your office supplies are organized but hidden away. Studies have shown that keeping clutter out of sight eases stress and improves creativity and productive. Use Inboxes and Vertical Files The surface areas of offices can get very cluttered when you're working. To avoid stacks of papers, files and notebooks, invest in desk organizers so you can keep organized folders an dinformation right at your fingertips. Having to root through drawers and files is a big time waster and creates havoc that you don't need. Create a Comfortable Seating Area Sitting at a desk can cause a lot of fatigue throughout the day.  Sure, you can always get up and go for a walk or take a break to get your energy flowing. But sometimes you need a change of perspective. If you have room in your office, create a comfortable seating area to read or work. You don't always have to sit at your desk! Choose the Best Desk and Chair Speaking of desks and chairs - don't skimp on your desk and chair because you work from home. Sitting in a kitchen chair won’t help your back or circlation. You need a desk that offers enough space for the kind of work you do. For example, a small writing desk won’t be a good fit if you need a large computer with multiple monitors. Make your office work for you rather than just accepting what you have. Use Inboxes and Desk Organizers The surface areas of offices can become quite cluttered when you’re working. To avoid stacks of papers and notebooks, invest in desk organizers so you can keep organized folders and information right at your fingertips.  Having to root through drawers and files is a big time waster and creates havoc that you don't need.

Should I Buy a Home This Year? Today’s cooling housing market, the rise in mortgage rates, and mounting economic concerns have some people questioning: should I still buy a home this year? While it’s true this year has unique challenges for homebuyers, it’s important to factor the long-term benefits of homeownership into your decision. If you know people who bought a home 5, 10, or even 30 years ago, you’re probably going to have a hard time finding someone who regrets their decision. Why is that? The reason is tied to how you gain equity and wealth as home values grow with time. People will tell you that purchasing a home is a long term investment. Home equity is built up through both market price appreciation and by paying down the mortgage. Combing the effects of these two can really add up to quite a sum over the years. Home Price Growth Over Time Even though home price appreciation has moderated a bit this year, home values have still increased significantly in recent years. That means a home’s value can increase substantially in a short time. And if you expand that time frame to many years, the benefit of homeownership and the big gains you stand to make become even clearer. While home price growth varies by state and local area, the nationwide average shows that a typical homeowner who bought a house thirty years ago saw their home almost triple in value over that time. This is why homeowners who bought their homes years ago are still happy with their decision. Even if home price appreciation eases as the market cools this year, home prices are still expected to appreciate nationally in 2023. That means that in most markets a home should grow in value over the next year even if the pace is slower than it was during the peak market frenzy when prices skyrocketed. The Bottom Line Of course you can always continue renting, but rental prices have been climbing for years, and recent rent increases have been huge.  So why rent and face annual lease hikes for no long-term financial benefit? Instead, consider buying a home and making an investment in your future that could set you up for long-term gains.  

Today's housing market is different than it was just a few months - or even a few weeks - ago.  So you need to work with your agent to create a plan to get your home sold in the least amount of time and with the least amount of hassle. Start with preparing your home before it hits the market. First, price your home right for the market. The price sends a message to potential buyers, so if you price it too high it could put you at a disadvantage by discouraging buyers from making an offer.  But if you price it too low, some buyers may wonder if there's an underlying issue with your home.  The goal is to gain the attention of potential buyers and get them to look at your home before they look at others that are on the market. Work with a skilled and experienced agent to be sure your home is properly priced. Next, be sure your home is in tip top showing condition! Just because you don't have a showing scheduled before you leave for work doesn't mean someone won't want to get in to see your home ASAP. Be sure beds are made, dishes are put away, counters are cleared and bathrooms are picked up. Keep all clutter out of sight as buyers need to be able to envision themselves living in your home and clutter is a big distraction. Ask for our quick checklist for preparing for showings! Speaking of buyers envisioning themselves in your home, another step to take is to remove all personal items like photos, diplomas and sentimental belongings.  Start packing for your move by packing these items away! It's aso a good time to remove any excess furniture, clothing and household items, as that helps to make rooms, closets and cabinets look bigger. It's often a good idea to speak with a home stager before listing your home to get help with how and where to place items, and what maintenance or quick updates can be done before listing your home to maximize your sale price. We have a staging team and handyman at our disposal, so you won't have to scramble to find professionals at the last minute. Keeping these tips in mind will ensure your home stands out and brings in the perfect buyer!      

Hidden Kitchen Storage Ideas Is your kitchen small? Or does it feel small because you lack storage space? A small kitchen can be hard to work with, especially when you don't have room for all your essentials, let alone items you want to add to your kitchen just to spruce it up. If you want to add storage, you don't necessarily have to rip things out and start from scratch. What can you do? Take a moment to look around in search of hidden spaces in your kitchen. Do you have extra room below the sink? Is there empty space in the cabinets above your fridge or microwave? These are just a few of the many hidden spaces you can transform into functional storage options. Here are some more ideas to help you love your kitchen again. Toe-kick drawers You know that space between your cabinets and the floor? Did you know that you can install something called a toe-kick drawer to take advantage of that awkward yet spacious spot near the ground? Toe-kick drawers are thin and flat, making them easy to fit in small spaces. Despite their size, toe-kick drawers can store smaller items, such as cutting boards or cookie sheets, to free up some cabinet space.  Tip-out trays A lot of people don't realize that you can make use of the space in front of kitchen sinks and stovetops. You can install a tip-out tray directly in front of these and store sponges, soaps, wooden spoons, bottle openers and other small items that tend to get lost in big drawers or under the sink. The trays don't take up a lot of spaces and they can fit in very convenient spots.  Use the blind corners Nearly all kitchens have a corner cabinet where everything seems to fall into the back corner and disappear. There are some ways, however, to make these corner cabinets much more usable and functional.  For example, you can install pull-out drawers, a Lazy Susan or standing corner shelves that are made to fit into a corner space, making it easier for you to find items that you need when you need them. Use your imagination to get creative with this space!  Additional shelving If you're still struggling with storage space in your kitchen, you can always add extra shelving to empty walls. While the best shelves will depend on the design of your kitchen, you may have wasted space above or below your cabinets or refrigerator. Or perhaps you have empty wall space by a doorway.  Adding some open shelving or a bakers rack will not only add storage, it will add different texture to your kitchen and provide interesting detail to your walls.

While some people dream of hardwood or tile flooring, sometimes carpet is the better choice! The process of choosing new carpet isn't as easy as pointing to a sample and knowing "it's the one."  There are so many options to choose from, and it can be hard to know which carpet type is best for you. Do you have children? Pets? A significant other who spills a lot? Here are some things to consider as you weigh your carpet options. Four popular types of carpet materials  Not all carpets are made out of the same materials. There are many different types of carpet materials to choose from, but these are four of the most popular carpet options:  Nylon. Olefin.  Polyester. Triexta. Nylon is the most durable of these types of materials. Not only do nylon carpets have the ability to withstand significant wear and tear, but they are also very easy to care for and maintain. Nylon carpets are ideal for people who have children, pets, or both, as well as for anyone who wants a carpet that will last for a very long time.  Olefin is a more budget-friendly carpet option, but it is also less durable than nylon. Carpets made out of polyester are more susceptible to damage caused by wear and tear, especially when compared with nylon carpets. Triexta is a close second to nylon in terms of durability, though carpets made with this material don't stain as easily as nylon does, giving triexta carpets a leg up in terms of anti-staining properties.  Five factors to consider when determining carpet quality  When you're looking at options and comparing different types of carpets, be sure to look closely at the quality of the carpet you're considering. Keep in mind that not all carpets are graded against the same quality standards.  This means that what one company deems as a high-quality carpet might be subpar in the eyes of another carpet brand. It's not that you cannot trust what carpet manufacturers say in regard to the quality of their carpets. This means you should pay more attention to the number of fibers within the carpet and the density of the carpet.  The number of fibers that a carpet contains will tell you the carpet's weight.  Heavier carpets are generally better in terms of quality. Similarly, knowing the number of fibers within the carpet can give you information about the density of the carpet. You’ll want to look for a carpet with a high density value because the greater the density, the better the quality of the carpet.  Carpet options to match your decorating needs Carpets don't have to cover the entire floor of a room, either. Carpets come in all shapes and sizes, so you can add as little carpeting or as many carpets as you want. Here are some ideas: Area rugs Carpet tiles Rolls of carpet Runners Peel-and-stick carpets Whatever you decide, have fun picking out your new carpeting!

What is a mortgage pre-approval?  It is provided by a licensed lender.  The lender will ask you for information about your income, debt, assets and employment.  Using that information, along with information about your credit history from the 3 major credit bureaus - Equifax, TransUnion and Experian - the lender will determine how much money you are qualified to borrow. The benefits of a pre-approval include: - You'll have the ability to determine your homebuying budget.  There is no sense finding a home you love and then finding out you don't qualify to purchase it. - It lets a seller know you are serious about making an offer.  Without a pre-approval many sellers (and listing agents) won't even look at an offer.  Nobody wants to waste time looking at an offer that may not be able to get to the closing table. - You can be more confident in your ability to secure a loan when you make an offer.  Having a pre-approval means your lender has given you information about the loan process and what further information you will need to provide in order to get that loan and buy your dream home. Be sure you use a trusted lender, who will explain things fully to you.  Let us know if you'd like recommendations.  We have a group of lenders we frequently work with, and who we know will work for you!  

MassDREAMS is made possible by federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which provides assistance to states to mitigate the economic effects of the pandemic.  MassDREAMS is a Massachusetts program that provides down payment and closing cost grants to first-time homebuyers who meet the program's eligibility criteria and who currently live in one of the 29 communities that were disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  You may qualify for up to $50,000. Do you live in one of the eligible cities or towns?  They are: Attleboro, Barnstable, Boston, Brockton, Chelsea, Chicopee, Everett, Fall River, Fitchburg, Framingham, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Leominster, Lowell, Lynn, Malden, Methuen, New Bedford, Peabody, Pittsfield, Quincy, Randolph, Revere, Salem, Springfield, Taunton, Westfield and Worcester.   To be eligible for MassDREAMS Homebuyer Grants, you must Be a first-time homebuyer Purchase a home in any Massachusetts community, using a MassHousing or MHP mortgage Currently reside in one of the 29 Disproportionately Impacted Communities* in Massachusetts Buy a single-family home, condominium or 2-, 3- or 4-family home, which will be your primary residence Meet income and other eligibility criteria, which vary by location To learn more about MassDREAMS and to see if you might be eligible, visit mymasshome.org. This website is administered by the Citizens Housing and Planning Association and jointly funded by MassHousing and MHP. Important Note: MassDREAMS grants are only available to eligible first-time home buyers who purchase a property using a first mortgage loan from MassHousing or the Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP).

Fall is officially here, have you thought about fall home maintenance?  There are some things you should definitely do to be sure your home is ready for the coming change in weather. Drain garden hoses and store them inside to protect them from cracking. Turn off outdoor spigots and make sure exterior pipes, such as lawn irrigation pipes, are drained of water.  Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst, creating all sorts of damage to your home. Check your gutters. Be sure gutters are clear of leaves, sticks and other debris.  Consider installing gutter caps or screens to help keep the gutters clear.  Check the joints between the gutters and downspouts and between sections of the gutters and repair if necessary. Make sure any gaps around doors, window frames, or places where wiring or pipes enter your house are sealed to prevent any water from penetrating and causing mold or structural damage. Seals will also help keep heat in, and unwanted visitors like mice and insects out. Take a peek at your peak – your roof, that is! Get some binoculars and check your roof for missing or damaged shingles.  Make repairs before winter wind, ice and snow have a chance to cause damage to your home. Have a professional inspect any wood burning fireplaces or wood stoves, to be sure there isn’t creosote buildup that can cause a chimney fire. Have gas fireplaces inspected for proper venting and to check for broken glass doors.  Have your furnace inspected to be sure it’s in optimal working condition for the cold months to come.    A little bit of effort will help eliminate potential problems and protect your most valuable asset!