Viewing entries in
How to's

Think you're ready to buy a house? Here's 4 signs.

Think you're ready to buy a house? Here's 4 signs.

“Am I ready to buy a house, or should I just keep renting?”

It’s one of the questions that we hear most often and something to which first-time homebuyers often spend months, if not years, trying to figure out the answer.

Understanding What Comes With the Home

Understanding What Comes With the Home

When you buy a pre-owned home, do you know what will come with the house? Do you get to keep all the appliances, the art on the walls or the outdoor pizza oven on the patio?

Could you use a detached living space?

Could you use a detached living space?

Gone are the days when a three-bedroom, two-bath starter home was the norm for first-time homebuyers. Today, many buyers are skipping that stage altogether and going straight for their dream homes. They're buying bigger, more expensive properties with upgraded features, and they plan to live there for the long haul.

Should you skip the starter house?

Should you skip the starter house?

Gone are the days when a three-bedroom, two-bath starter home was the norm for first-time homebuyers. Today, many buyers are skipping that stage altogether and going straight for their dream homes. They're buying bigger, more expensive properties with upgraded features, and they plan to live there for the long haul.

Hottest Bathroom Trends for Any Budget

Hottest Bathroom Trends for Any Budget

A bathroom remodel is one of the most rewarding projects you can undertake as a homeowner. When well-planned, it can improve your home's aesthetics while adding convenience. And it usually offers a significant return when it comes time to sell.

Homeownership in Your Golden Years

Homeownership in Your Golden Years

Independent living is often cited as being good for one's well-being, so it's no surprise that aging in place has become so popular. Thankfully, many options in today's housing market make it possible. 

7 Tips for Energy Awareness Month

7 Tips for Energy Awareness Month

October isn't just about pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween celebrations; it's also Energy Awareness Month. Find out how you can reduce your household's energy consumption this fall while preparing for the seasons ahead.

When You Just Shouldn't Do It Yourself (DIY)

When You Just Shouldn't Do It Yourself (DIY)

A do-it-yourself project can be an empowering way to save money, provided you know what you're doing. But making even one simple mistake could put a strain on your back or your bank account. Often, it's best to put safety first and call a professional. Here are four types of home improvement projects that are best left to the experts.

4 Changes To Your House That Impact Insurance Costs

4 Changes To Your House That Impact Insurance Costs

Homes often grow and change alongside the people living in them. If you've added expensive furnishings or made substantial upgrades, it's important to re-evaluate your homeowners insurance and make sure your policy reflects those changes. Here are four instances when it may be beneficial to review and adjust your coverage.

Adding Hidden Spaces to Your Home

Adding Hidden Spaces to Your Home

For decades, characters like Batman and James Bond have popularized hidden doors and clandestine passageways. Many homeowners have followed suit, adding secret areas to store valuables, provide a safe place in an emergency or create a fun playroom. Could a hidden feature make you feel safer, secure your possessions better or add to your home's appeal?

Shading Your Backyard or Patio For The Summer

Shading Your Backyard or Patio For The Summer

Summer is a fun season to enjoy time outside with friends and family -- provided you have sufficient coverage from the sun. Stay cool and comfortable by adding shade to your yard or patio with the ideas below.

Staging Tips To Help You Sell Your Home

Comment

Staging Tips To Help You Sell Your Home

In real estate, staging a home and selling a home often go hand in hand. Though the process can be involved, the results are indisputable. Need some help executing an effective home staging? Browse this list of resources to help you dazzle prospective buyers and increase your chances of a quick home sale.

Comment

Tips for Planning a Bathroom Upgrade To Maximize Value

Comment

Tips for Planning a Bathroom Upgrade To Maximize Value

Do you want to improve the aesthetics of your bathroom? Before you disrupt your household with the hassle of a remodel, make sure you're prepared. Familiarize yourself with this cost and ROI overview to help guide the planning process.

Comment

4 High-Return Updates To Your Home

Comment

4 High-Return Updates To Your Home

Do you have a list of changes you'd like to make to your home this year? Completing cosmetic updates is easiest when the weather's in your favor. In honor of May's National Home Improvement Month, here are four upgrades ranging from curb appeal projects to large-scale expansions that often yield high returns.

Comment

How Agents Help During Home Sales

Comment

How Agents Help During Home Sales

Just because you can buy and sell property on your own, it doesn't mean you should. Real estate agents remain essential when making these pivotal financial transactions.

Comment

2017's Top Kitchen Design Trends

Comment

2017's Top Kitchen Design Trends

While a home's curb appeal may draw buyers in, its interior matters just as much, if not more. Several features are high on the wish list of today's homebuyer, including a modern kitchen. Whether you're thinking of starting a remodel or you're just curious about what the future holds, check out these trends that turn kitchens into buyer bait. 

Comment

Where does your credit score stand?

Comment

Where does your credit score stand?

Are you considering making a major purchase, like buying a home, this year? If so, your credit score will likely come into play. An understanding of the basics can help you effectively monitor and manage it. 

Comment