Are you on the hunt for a more efficient living space? Whether you're a first-time buyer or downsizing from a larger home, buying small can still mean living big. Let's explore four positives to living in a smaller, more intimate house or condo. You're Going To Save Money The first, most obvious and most exciting reason is that you're going to save money. The home itself will cost less than a larger one, especially if there is less land or property included. Even better: the money you save on space can be re-invested in quality. Losing a bedroom or two but having brand-new appliances? It might … [Read More...]
It's great news if you have enough financial capital that you have the option of investing in a rental property, but being able to afford it is only half the battle. Since you'll need to find and keep the right renters in order to make a profit, here are some ways that you can ensure your property will be a financial benefit. Price It Right It's important to turn a profit, but overpricing your property may mean that you'll have limited options. Instead of making it a guessing game, take a look at the rent in the neighborhood and read through the listings to determine a potential price. This … [Read More...]
With so many mortgage products available on the market, it can be hard to know which ones will serve you best as a homeowner. As a result, there are many mistruths surrounding the reverse mortgage products. If you've heard of this homeownership option and are wondering what it can do for you, let's clear away some of the misconceptions. You Must Own Your Home It can certainly be helpful to own your home outright if you're looking into a reverse mortgage, but it's not actually necessary. Instead, it's important for you to have a high amount of equity in your home so that lenders can be sure … [Read More...]
Last week's economic releases included readings on housing starts, building permits issued and the National Association of Home Builders/ Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. Fed Chair Janet Yellen testified before the House Finance Committee and consumer spending and core consumer spending reports were also released. Mortgage rates and new jobless claims were little changed week-to-week. Home Builder Sentiment Slows as Industry Faces Obstacles NAHB reported lower reading for its January Housing Market Index. January's index reading was two points lower at 65 than December's reading. Builders … [Read More...]
It's often so exciting to think of buying a new home that homeowners forget about the sale, but there are a lot of details involved in putting a home on the market. Whether you're just considering selling or are readying to put your home up, here are some things you might not know about the process. Marketing Strategy Is Important The days of putting a sign on the front yard and waiting for buyers are gone, so it's important to have a strategy that will successfully highlight your house. Whether you decide to make a website, use social media or invest in a professional photographer, ensure … [Read More...]
There are a variety of cool, modernized light fixtures that will be sure to jazz up any living space, but these trendy items can often come with a high price tag. Instead of going out and spending a bundle, how about staying inside over the weekend for a unique do-it-yourself project? If you're looking to make a new light fixture, here are some fun designs to put at the top of your list. Get A Grater Light The cheese grater may be better known as an every-day kitchen tool, but there's no reason you can't use this strange gadget for your very own light. Whether you decide to place your light in … [Read More...]
