Sunrise Homes & Renovations, Inc.

How to Create a One-Year Plan After Moving In for Repairs and Upgrades

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Moving into a new home is exciting, especially when you cannot wait to make improvements that reflect your style and lifestyle. The challenge is knowing where to start. Many new homeowners feel overwhelmed by repairs, upgrades, and projects competing for attention.

Creating a one-year plan helps you stay organized, avoid overspending, and prioritize the changes that matter most. As real estate professionals, we guide buyers through this transition so they can protect their investment and enjoy their home from day one.

Start With a Full Walkthrough of the Home
Before making any upgrades, take time to walk through the home with a fresh perspective. Look for small issues that may not have seemed urgent during your purchase, such as loose fixtures, minor leaks, cracked tiles, or outdated outlets. Make note of everything, from major repairs to cosmetic projects. This creates a clear list of what needs attention and helps you understand the overall condition of the home now that you live in it daily.

Identify Immediate Safety and Maintenance Needs
Some repairs should always come first. Electrical hazards, plumbing leaks, roof issues, and anything related to safety should be at the top of your one-year plan. These types of repairs protect your home and prevent more expensive problems down the road. Addressing maintenance early also helps you avoid emergency repairs, which tend to be costly and stressful.

Prioritize Projects That Improve Comfort
Once safety and maintenance items are handled, focus on upgrades that make your home more comfortable. This can include improving lighting, updating flooring, enhancing storage, or adjusting your HVAC system for better efficiency. These changes make your home more enjoyable and offer everyday benefits. It is easy to get distracted by big-picture projects, but comfort-focused upgrades often bring the most immediate satisfaction.

Build a Budget for Each Phase
A one-year plan works best when you break the year into phases. Start by assigning estimated costs to each repair or upgrade. Then create a realistic timeline that fits your budget. Some projects may need savings over several months, while others can be completed quickly and affordably. A clear plan helps you avoid taking on too many expenses at once and keeps your finances balanced throughout the year.

Save Cosmetic Enhancements for Later
Paint, décor, landscaping, and design details are the fun part of homeownership, and they can transform your space visually. However, they can often wait until core repairs and upgrades are finished. By saving cosmetic projects for later in your plan, you avoid redoing work, spending more than expected, or skipping essential repairs in favor of aesthetics.

Creating a one-year plan after moving in gives you direction, control, and confidence. Instead of rushing into projects, you move at a pace that supports your lifestyle and protects your investment. With a thoughtful approach and a clear timeline, your home becomes everything you envisioned and more.

How Garage Size Affects Value More Than You Think

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When buyers tour a home, the garage is often an afterthought, but it plays a much larger role in property value than many people realize. Garage size affects storage, functionality, lifestyle, and the overall appeal of a home. As real estate professionals, we often see buyers choose one home over another simply because the garage better fits their needs. Whether you plan to use the garage for parking, projects, or storage, its size can significantly influence long-term value and buyer interest.

Understanding How Parking Space Impacts Convenience
A one-car garage may seem fine at first, but daily life changes quickly when you factor in weather, groceries, kids, and busy schedules. A two-car or three-car garage gives buyers more flexibility and convenience. Extra parking helps protect vehicles from sun, snow, and storms, which is especially valuable in harsh climates. Larger garages also make day-to-day routines smoother, and buyers consistently see that convenience as added value.

Look at Storage Potential Beyond Vehicles
Garages are one of the most important storage spaces in a home. Buyers often store tools, bikes, seasonal decorations, sports equipment, and lawn tools in the garage. A cramped garage limits storage options, while a larger garage helps keep the inside of the home tidy and organized. Storage is one of the top priorities for today’s buyers, and garage size plays a big role in meeting that need.

Consider How Hobby and Workspace Needs Affect Demand
Many homeowners use the garage for more than parking. A larger garage can provide space for hobbies, home gyms, workshops, or craft areas. These features are appealing to buyers who value flexibility and extra usable space. A garage that feels spacious instead of cramped opens the door to more possibilities, which increases the home’s appeal for a wider range of buyers.

Understand How Garage Size Influences Resale Value
Homes with small garages often sit on the market longer. Buyers with multiple vehicles, recreational equipment, or storage needs tend to overlook them. In contrast, homes with two-car or three-car garages often attract more interest and may command higher offers. A bigger garage does not only add functional value, but it can also strengthen your resale position and improve your marketability.

Think About Your Long-Term Lifestyle
Garage needs often change as families grow or hobbies evolve. A home that feels adequate today may feel limited in the future if the garage is too small. Considering long-term plans helps you choose a home that fits your needs now and years from now. A larger garage offers flexibility if your lifestyle changes, ensuring your home continues to support your daily routines and storage needs.

Garage size is more than a simple detail. It affects convenience, storage, lifestyle, and future value. By paying close attention to garage space during your home search, you can make a smart decision that adds comfort today and strengthens your investment for the future.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 22nd, 2025

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The Consumer Price Index was scheduled to be released this week but has once again been delayed, with no explanation provided. This left the unemployment data as the only notable economic release from last week. The data showed that unemployment numbers came in higher than expected; however, this result is somewhat tempered by the fact that the figures are supported by a more limited data set.

Even so, it is not a positive sign that unemployment numbers are exceeding expectations under these circumstances. At this time, there is still no word on when the Consumer Price Index will be released, with the Christmas holiday fast approaching.

Unemployment Report
Unemployment rate climbs to 4-year high of 4.6%, November jobs report shows. The economy lost 105,000 jobs in October and added 64,000 new jobs in November, the government said, in an otherwise lackluster employment report that was skewed by the deferred resignations of federal workers.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.07% for this week, with the current rate at 5.47%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.01% for this week, with the current rate at 6.21%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.02% for this week. Current rates at 5.88%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.03% for this week. Current rates at 5.89%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 224,000 compared to the expected claims of 225,000. The prior week landed at 237,000.

What’s Ahead
With Christmas Holiday on the horizon, there will be very little in the way of reports released.

Simple Ways to Be More Productive While Working from Home

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Working from home sounds ideal until distractions, interruptions, and blurred boundaries start to affect your focus. If you are adjusting to a home-based routine, the good news is that a few simple habits can help you feel more organized, more productive, and less stressed. Here are 6 practical ways to make working from home work for you.

Set Up a Dedicated Work Zone
Choose 1 spot in your home that is your work area, even if it is a small corner. A consistent workspace helps your brain shift into work mode faster. Keep it tidy and stocked with the basics you need each day, like a notebook, chargers, water, and a few snacks. The goal is fewer reasons to get up and lose focus.

Keep a Simple Daily Schedule
A routine creates momentum. Start and end your workday at consistent times and block your day into work segments. If you no longer have a commute, use that time for something that supports your energy, like a healthy breakfast, a short walk, or reviewing your top priorities for the day.

Get Ready Like You Are Leaving the House
You do not need formal business attire but changing out of sleepwear matters. It signals that your day has started and helps you stay in a productive mindset. If you have video calls, choose an outfit you feel confident in so you are not scrambling at the last minute.

Use the Right Tools to Stay Connected
Working from home does not mean working alone. Pick 1 or 2 communication tools you will use consistently for calls, video meetings, and quick updates. Keep your calendar current, confirm meetings in writing, and set reminders so tasks do not get lost in the shuffle.

Create Do Not Disturb Time
If you share your home with others, boundaries matter. Set clear hours for focused work, and communicate them. A closed door, headphones, or a simple sign can help. If silence is not realistic, consider soft background music or noise cancelling headphones to reduce distractions.

Take Breaks That Reset Your Brain
Nonstop work usually leads to less output, not more. Build short breaks into your day to stretch, step outside, and get fresh air. Even a quick reset can improve focus and reduce stress. A more balanced day supports better performance and better sleep.

Working from home can be a great fit when the right habits are in place. If you want help building a routine that supports your goals and your lifestyle, we’re happy to share what we have seen work best for our clients.

The Real Cost of Homeownership, What Buyers Must Know Before They Commit

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Buying a home is an exciting step and a powerful wealth building move, but the purchase price is only part of the financial picture. Many buyers focus on the down payment and monthly loan amount, then feel surprised by the ongoing costs that come with owning a home. Understanding these expenses ahead of time helps you buy with confidence and avoid unnecessary financial stress.

Your Monthly Mortgage Payment
For most homeowners, the mortgage payment is the largest recurring expense. This payment includes the principal balance and the interest charged for borrowing the funds. The amount depends on your loan size, interest rate, and loan term. Choosing a payment that fits comfortably within your budget is essential for long-term stability.

Property Taxes
Property taxes are an annual expense assessed on your home and can vary widely. Many homeowners pay these taxes monthly as part of their mortgage payment, with funds held in escrow and paid when due. It is important to account for this cost since property taxes can increase over time.

Homeowners Insurance Coverage
Most lenders require homeowners insurance to protect the property against unexpected damage or loss. Premiums are often paid monthly through escrow. Standard policies typically cover common risks, but some situations require additional coverage. Planning for this cost ensures your home and finances remain protected.

Homeowners Association Fees
Some properties are part of a Homeowners Association. These fees are typically charged monthly or quarterly and support shared amenities and community maintenance. Costs may cover landscaping, exterior upkeep, snow removal, or other services. These fees continue even after a mortgage is paid off and should always be included in your long-term budget.

Utilities and Services
Owning a home means covering ongoing utility costs. These often include electricity, water, gas, sewer services, trash removal, recycling, television, and internet. Utility expenses can fluctuate based on home size, usage, and seasonal demand, making it important to leave room for variability.

Maintenance and Repairs
Unlike renting, homeowners are responsible for repairs and upkeep. This includes items such as roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, and appliances. Setting aside savings for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs can prevent financial strain when issues arise.

Plan, Budget, and Prepare
Knowing how much you can afford goes beyond loan approval. Factoring in ongoing ownership costs allows you to create a realistic budget and build savings for the future. A well prepared buyer is positioned to enjoy homeownership without sacrificing financial flexibility.

Homeownership is a rewarding goal when approached with clarity and planning. Understanding the full cost helps you make decisions that support both your lifestyle and long-term success.

A Practical Buyer Guide with Smart Steps to Buying Your Next Home

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Buying your next home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important financial decisions. Whether you are upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, preparation is key. Market conditions evolve, lending standards change, and personal finances shift over time. These seven essential tips will help you approach the process with clarity and confidence.

Plan Early for Your Down Payment
Your down payment is the amount you contribute upfront toward the purchase price of your home. This amount is typically a percentage of the total price and varies based on loan type and qualifications. Creating a savings plan early allows you to set realistic expectations and reduce stress later. Establish a timeline, build a budget, and consistently set funds aside so you are ready when the right home comes along.

Budget for Closing Costs
Beyond the down payment, buyers should plan for closing costs. These expenses often range between 2% and 4% of the loan amount and include items such as title services, insurance, and recording fees. Understanding these costs in advance prevents last-minute surprises and helps you manage cash flow at closing.

Monitor and Protect Your Credit
Your credit profile plays a major role in loan eligibility and interest rates. Pay attention to payment history, credit usage, and the length of your credit accounts. Avoid opening new credit lines or making large purchases during the home buying process. Stable financial behavior can improve loan terms and reduce overall borrowing costs.

Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop
A mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and strengthens your position when making an offer. The process involves verifying income, assets, and credit to estimate loan terms and costs. While pre-approval is not final approval, it helps you shop with confidence and shows sellers you are a serious buyer.

Work With a Knowledgeable Real Estate Professional
An experienced real estate agent provides market insight, access to available homes, and guidance throughout negotiations. They help you evaluate pricing, identify opportunities, and navigate offers and contracts. Having professional representation ensures your interests are protected from start to finish.

Never Skip the Home Inspection
A home inspection reveals the true condition of the property. It can identify structural issues, system concerns, or deferred maintenance that may not be visible during a showing. Inspection findings can be used to negotiate repairs or pricing, potentially saving you significant costs after closing.

Stay Within a Comfortable Budget
Buying at the top of your budget can limit financial flexibility. It is important to leave room for ongoing expenses, maintenance, and unexpected costs. A balanced budget supports long-term comfort and financial stability, not just the purchase itself.

Buying a home is more than a transaction, it is a lifestyle decision. Preparation, planning, and professional guidance help ensure a smoother experience and a purchase you feel confident about.