T H E  B L O G

If you're thinking of buying or selling a home, you'll want to have the most up-to-date information about current market conditions and factors that are influencing it.  The best way to make sure you get the most detailed and correct information is to work with an expert - an experienced local Realt

When your mortgage lender talks about your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), just what does that mean?  Your DTI impacts your ability to qualify for a mortgage.  So knowing your DTI even before you apply for a mortgage can help you best move forward into home ownership. What is debt-to-income ratio? Your

Recent housing market data shows the supply of homes for sale is increasing, giving buyers additional options in a market that's been tight for the past two years. So it just may be the perfect time for you to start looking for a home. But it’s important to keep in mind that while inventory is impro

Real estate agents can help you navigate a complex process. They can save you stress. Real estate agents around the world wake up each day committed to helping their clients navigate some of life’s biggest changes, like upgrading a home when their family grows, downsizing when they become empty nest

  Use blinds, vegetation, and solar screens to deflect the sun's glare to keep your home cool. Install window fans to draw cool air into your home at night and provide air circulation during the day. Set ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction to send cool air down to the floor. Seal air leaks

You don't have to invest in top-of-the-line appliances and accessories to cook like a pro.  A chef's kitchen takes everything into account to ensure that you have a professional experience at home.  Here are some ideas for creating the perfect kitchen in your home. Plan an efficient layout If you've

As home prices continue to rise, are you wondering if it makes more sense to rent or own your own home?  Well, it's not just home prices that have risen in recent years.  Rental prices have significantly risen as well.  According to recent studies, the median rent across the country's largest metrop

Did you know that if you own a home, your net worth likely just got a big boost thanks to rising home equity. Equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on the loan.  Based on recent home price appreciation, you’re building equity far faster than you may expect.  Here's how: Because

Are you ready to make a move and take advantage of today's sellers' market? With many homes continuing to get multiple offers, this could be the time to get the price and terms you’re looking for on your home sale. It's important to have an expert on your side to ensure you make all the right moves,

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

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

Are you looking for a quick and relatively inexpensive way to update your bathroom? It's pretty easy to do on your own.  Here are some simple tips: Change the paint color. Paint your bathroom walls or vanity a fresh new color for an instant updated feel.  Stick with neutral colors that won't "age" a

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

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,

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

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

Are inflation's prices causing you concern over your budget? Here are some tips from Nerdwallet to help keep your budget in check - and in the black. - Reduce discretional, non-essential spending.  If you're able to postpone weekend travel and skip a few drive-through meals and pricey coffees, you'l

Summer is here, finally! Will you be using your central air conditioning?  If so, there are some common issues that crop up with the systems.  Here are some tips to try before calling for service. - Not Powering On.  Check to see if your a/c breaker has tripped or the fuse has blown.  If so, turn th

There are many parts of an appraisal, all of which are taken into account by a licensed appraiser.   - Condition of the home.  The appraiser will take note of the general details of the home, ranging from the materials used throughout the house to the property's overall condition.  If anything is un

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