T H E B L O G
Raising Your Credit Score
Do you have idea what your credit score is? It's good to keep an eye on it and know how to maximize it, especially if you're going to apply for a mortgage. Your credit score is one of the most important ways a lender determines your financial health and whether to extend credit to you. Here are 8 t
Prepping for Your Move
Moving Day You’ve nailed down the day you close on your home. Now to start packing. But where do you start? Moving can be stressful, so let’s look at some tips for making it easier. Start with purging. Decluttering is a good way to start preparing for your move. If you don’t use an item there is
Air Conditioning and Fans - How Much Do You Know?
It's that time of year when our thoughts turn to fans and air conditioning, and many homeowners have questions about which is best and how to use each most beneficially in the home. Here are some tips and general information about both fans and A/C. Whole-House Fan. Whole-house fan is a large vent
Which Are Better: Decks or Patios?
Many people are drawn to one-floor homes because the accessibility they offer in terms of outdoor space is plenty. However, if you want outdoor space, you don’t necessarily have to move into a single-story home. If you move into a multistory home, yet there isn’t already a deck or a patio in place,
How PMI Can Help You Buy a Home
What is PMI? It is Private Mortgage Insurance, and it may be your savior when it comes to buying a home in this market. With home prices at the highest levels ever, and limited inventory to choose from, competition for affordable homes is fierce - especially with recent mortgage rate increases reduc
Things to Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage Loan
So, you're offer on your dream home has been accepted and you've applied for a mortgage loan. Before you get too excited and go shopping for new furniture and electronics, keep these things in mind. Otherwise, you could jeopardize not only your loan, but your chance at living happily ever after in
What is the Purpose of an Appraisal?
What is the Purpose of an Appraisal? A home serves as collateral for the mortgage loan, so the lender needs to make sure that the home is worth the price being paid. An appraisal provides a means for the lender to determine the value and condition of the property, and analyze the fair market value
Assessed Value, Appraised Value, Market Value - What's the Scoop?
Just what is the difference between appraised value, assessed value, and market value? Does it matter if a home is "listed below appraised value"? Are the terms interchangeable? No. Each is very different so it's important to understand the differences between them. Assessed Value Each city and to