As you’ve certainly noticed, mortgage rates have drifted downward over the past year or so. For several reasons, maybe a slower economy or the Fed has lowered a key interest rate. Whatever the reason, lower rates can trigger someone to make a decision to refinance. And it makes perfect sense. If someone can refinance out of a higher rate into a lower rate, the payments will fall. You want to speak...

When selling a property with a pool, the first thing to know is that you should be prepared (and prepare your clients) for a bit of resistance from certain potential buyers. A number of people have a negative mindset when it comes to the discussion of pools, and I think this is due in part to price. A pool can be an expensive, luxury item rather than a necessity. The cost of a pool, between the routine...

For family members who are just starting out in the workforce or who have rented for a while, at some point they’ll start thinking of owning instead of renting. Renting for a period of time is a good thing because there are a lot of things to consider. When you rent, if you decide you don’t like the neighborhood after all, you can find another place once the lease has expired. With a home, it’s not...

There are a lot of reasons to consider going through with getting a home renovation, but there are other reasons why you should wait before acting on those projects. Home renovations are expensive and time-consuming, so you should always be certain you want to follow through with them. In addition, you may discover that you're happy with the home the way it is instead of changing things. Whether you're a...

A rent-to-own home can be a viable option for some people if maybe a mortgage isn’t right for them at this moment or wouldn’t be available to them. Rent-to-own homes can be a way to wade into homeownership less traditionally and more slowly. What is a Rent-to-Own Home? A rent-to-own home will have a lease. Then, with that lease, you’ll have either an option or a requirement to buy at the end of a...

Getting ready to buy a new home can be stressful and put unneeded strain on every aspect of your life. Without preparation, you might find yourself searching desperately for a home and contacting multiple agents to help you out. You might also start worrying about whether you’ll ever be able to find a new home. Those stresses and strains can ruin family relationships as you all try to cope with what...

Lots have been said about ‘side gig’ income these days. You know, extra income outside of your current full time job. Whether it’s because things are a bit more expensive than they used to be or just because someone wants a little extra money on the side to do with whatever. Maybe it’s just a part time job somewhere or perhaps it’s a bit of consulting work. Whatever the source, while the extra...

Whether it’s for a personal upgrade or to add value to your property for a sale, DIY work can be an enjoyable challenge that pushes you both physically and creatively. While it’s easy to simply pick up the materials you need and get on the job, skimping on the necessary safety equipment is not worth the risk. Even the simplest jobs come with their safety risks. Understanding these risks and what...

Buyers and their agents need to feel welcome to look at the property at their leisure without danger or distractions. So while you adore your sweet-tempered pit bull rescue, he could turn territorial, barking and growling at potential homebuyers. And it could cost you the opportunity to sell your home. Think of buyers as guests and work to make them feel comfortable as they consider your home for...

Curb appeal, the first impression your home conveys to prospective buyers, should create an emotional desire to own the home and enjoy the lifestyle and status it represents. Putting the best face on your home also should give a lasting impression that motivates buyers to cross the threshold and take that first step toward closing the deal. Experts advise, more like a home improvement or exterior...