If you're a homeowner with children, at some point, you'll be saying goodbye. They'll move off to college or to start their career and adult life. As children move out, you'll discover that you have extra bedrooms and other living spaces that will need a new purpose. Let's take a look at three ways that you can transform an unused bedroom into a welcoming place for guests to stay. Get Started With A Deep Clean The first thing you'll want to do is engage in a top-to-bottom deep clean of the room. Get everything out of the room so that nothing's left but the carpet. Clean the walls, windows, … [Read More...]
Last week's economic reports included readings on home prices, pending home sales and construction spending. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were released along with labor-sector readings on Non-Farm Payrolls, ADP employment and National Unemployment. Case-Shiller: Three Western Cities Hold Top Three Places for Home Price Growth According to Case-Shiller's June edition of its 20-City Home Price Index, the top three spots were again held by Seattle, Washington, Portland Oregon and Dallas, Texas. Seattle home prices outstripped Portland, Oregon with a reading of 13.40 … [Read More...]
Are you thinking about buying a new house? Whether you're a first-time or experienced buyer, if your credit score isn't looking too hot it can affect how much mortgage financing you receive – or whether you're approved at all! But don't fret. It's still possible to get a mortgage approved, even with credit issues. Below we'll share a few ways that you can get a mortgage loan even if your credit is less than perfect. Consider An FHA-Guaranteed Mortgage For many individuals with credit issues, the Federal Housing Administration's guaranteed loan programs are a good choice. In essence, the … [Read More...]
You've toured through a number of listings, attended all the open houses and have found your potential new dream home. Now the hard part begins, especially if you're working against other buyers who are keen on getting the same home as you. Let's take a look at three tricks that you can use to make sure the bid you submit on a home is the one that wins. Don't Start With A Lowball Offer First, it's important to note that the offer itself needs to be a fair one. If you approach a home seller with a low offer, you'll likely discover that they're not too interested in accepting it. Even worse, if … [Read More...]
According to the Case-Shiller National Home Price Index for June, Seattle, Washington continued to lead home price growth for the tenth consecutive month with a June reading of 13.40 percent growth year-over-year. Portland Oregon held second place for home price growth in the 20-City Home Price Index in June but trailed Seattle by 5.20 percent with 8.20 percent year-over-year home price growth. Dallas Texas held third place with a year-over-year home price growth rate of 7.70 percent. The 20-City Home Price Index increased by 5.70 percent year-over-year and was unchanged from May's reading. … [Read More...]
Take a look around your home. Do you feel that burning desire to renovate or upgrade certain areas? Perhaps it's the kitchen countertops or the décor in the master bedroom. Whatever the case, if you're itching to take on a home renovation project you'll want to ensure it's one that makes your life better – not worse! Let's take a look at four tips that will help you to avoid experiencing "renovator's remorse." Ask Yourself: Will This Project Add Value? If you're renovating to build equity in your home, you'll want to determine if the project is worth undertaking. There are many … [Read More...]
