Homeownership is still a vital part of the American Dream, and a goal that most Americans strive to obtain as adults. Even during a time when it is difficult for some Americans to qualify for a mortgage, the United States will not become a nation of renters, according to the National Association of Realtors®, (NAR). Today, more than 65% of Americans are homeowners, a rate that has remained unchanged since the 1960s. read more…
Some house-hunters are lucky enough to have found their dream home in the perfect fashion—falling in love with the first home they see, getting an offer accepted and moving in without a hitch. However, many home buyers, especially in this current market, have stories on the other end of the spectrum—filled with year-long house hunts and offer after offer with no luck finding that perfect home. read more…
A growing number of homeowners are choosing to pay down their mortgages at a faster rate –even if it means a substantial jump in their monthly mortgage payments. In the first six months of 2011, 26% of homeowners who refinanced chose a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage, according to data from CoreLogic, a provider of financial, property and consumer information. During all of 2009, 18.5% of borrowers who refinanced opted for a 15-year term and a little over 9% of homeowners did so back in 2007. read more…
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Residents should have emergency supplies at home in the event of a power outage.
This can include at least a three day’s supply of non-perishable foods, one gallon of water per person per day, warm clothing, blankets, a first-aid kit, battery-powered weather radio, a cell phone charger, flashlight and pet food. read more…
Ways to Live More on Less
You know the basics – coupon clipping, packing your lunch and car pooling are all great ways to spend less of your money. But here are some other ways that you can live well on less money. Try these following tips and you’ll soon be reaping the benefits.
Cut your cable bill and watch shows online: With the internet age in full swing, almost every network puts their most popular shows online at sites like Hulu.com or on their own website. While most households spend an upwards of $50 per month or more on cable, the people switching to basic cable plans and viewing their shows online are saving a big chunk of money each month. Hulu.com also has a library of classic television and movies available for viewing—all of which you are able to watch with a simple internet connection. read more…
Fall is upon us and that means cooler weather is setting in. So, while the weather is still in our favor, you should use this time to do some fall maintenance to ensure your home is ready for the winter. You’ll need to take care of some seasonal chores around the house to prevent any potential damage to your home due to the change in weather. It’s important that maintenance is done in order to avoid higher energy bills, or worse, damage to the home if a problem goes unnoticed through the winter months. Here are a few reminders to get you started: read more…
Today it’s more important than ever for you to understand where you stand financially, but many people out there know very little about their credit score, how it impacts lending and how they can improve it. In fact, two of every three Americans incorrectly believe that a consumer’s age is a factor used in calculating a credit score. read more…
Money Saving Ideas For Today’s Homeowner
In today’s economy, people are looking for different ways to save money on expenses. Here are a few ways to save money on your home:
Cut Costs On Your Mortgage
The recent rate dip has opened up another refinancing window. Many borrowers are refinancing to lower rates and even refinancing to shorter term loans in order to pay off their mortgage quicker. Now is as great a time as ever to make sure you have the best rate and loan program and are in the best financial situation available. read more…
By now you’re heard that housing prices are at all-time lows and now is the best time to find a good home for a great price. The buyers out there know that for now, with inventory as high as it is, they are currently in the driver’s seat; they recognize that low pricing coupled with the rise in foreclosures and very motivated sellers, they can get a bargain and are willing to work to get the best deal. In turn, sellers realize that there are things that can be done on their end to help entice buyers. Here are a few things that current buyers are looking for: read more…
Purchasing a home may be the most significant and largest purchase you will make, and there are many intricate details that go into this purchase. Buying a house involves the law of real property, which requires following and adhering to many important guidelines and circumstances you’ll have to take into consideration. A real estate lawyer is experienced in dealing with any problems that may arise throughout the purchasing process. Real estate attorneys will provide indispensable assistance to those who are buying homes, especially for the first time. read more…
