Most homeowners are so enthusiastic about putting their home on the market and getting the price they're hoping for that the expenses involved in selling a home are forgotten. However, it's often said that one has to spend money to make money, and selling a home is no exception! If you're wondering what kinds of overlooked expenses will cut into your home sale, here are some costs to consider. Minor Renovations There are always a few things to fix-up when it comes time to sell your home, but by establishing what will best increase your home's value, you can make it a good investment. Instead … [Read More...]
Ah, the city. With so many people living in an urban landscape these days, it can be hard to find anything more than a planter on the balcony for your herbs. And good luck finding space for vegetables or large flowering plants! Fortunately, coming up with a community garden can be a great way to get the locals together. If you're wondering how to get started with this fun project, begin with the following guide. Find The Right People Organizing your own community garden can seem overwhelming at first, so it's important to gather a group of like-minded people that are interested in the idea and … [Read More...]
Last week's economic news included readings on new and existing home sales, Case-Shiller Home Price Index reports and an announcement by the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. New and Existing Home Sales Mixed in June Sales of new homes rose in June rose to a seasonally- adjusted annual rate of 610,000 homes. Analysts expected 614,000 new home sales based on May's reading of 605,000 new home sales. The National Association of Realtors® reported 5.52 million previously owned homes sold in June on … [Read More...]
Whether you're trying to improve the look of your home or are getting ready to put it on the market, the idea of renovations might seem like a significant financial burden to take on. Fortunately, there are a variety of easy solutions for improving the look of your home without spending a lot of money. If you're wondering how you can spend $100 wisely, look no further than the following upgrading tips. A Funky Light Fixture It might seem like a cool light will cost an arm and a leg, but there are plenty of options available on the market that will instantly add a unique touch to your place. … [Read More...]
It has never been more popular to live a "green" lifestyle and develop sustainable living practices that will help out the planet. While you may be used to recycling cardboard boxes and giving away your old hand-me-down clothes, there are probably a few household items you didn't even know you could recycle! If you're wondering what to do with some of your old, used items, here are a few things that may be ready for re-use. Re-constituting Your Lenses It's common to think your eyeglass prescription only works for you, but an easy way to re-use old eyeglasses is to take them to your local … [Read More...]
Are you considering buying a home for the first time? For some, it can seem nearly impossible to come up with the funds for the down payment. Fortunately, there are a few ways that you can save a little over time and not have to borrow from the "Bank of Mom and Dad". If you're looking to invest in a home in the short-term and are looking for solutions to save up, here are some tips on how to get to your down payment amount more quickly. Create A Budget Most people don't like the idea of a budget, but few things are going to help you reach your financial goals like having one. Instead of … [Read More...]
