Choosing the right lender is an important step on your homebuying journey. Not only will it impact your costs as a borrower but also your overall experience when buying a home. Mortgage lenders can vary quite a bit. Every company offers different interest rates and loan programs, and fees and customer service can be widely different as well. How do you find the right lender for your home purchase? Here...
Equity is the difference between your home’s value and your mortgage balance — and most homeowners have gained a lot of it over the past few years. Thanks to rising home prices, most homeowners are sitting on more equity than they might think. The typical homeowner had about $270,000 in home equity at the beginning of 2023. You can tap into home equity when you need it for home repairs, medical...
If your space feels a little cramped, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need more square footage. There are minor design and decor choices that can make rooms look and feel larger — and you don’t have to spend much to achieve this illusion. Are you planning to revamp your place or get your house ready to sell? Here are five ways you can make any room in your home feel more spacious. Use lighting...
Moving can be an exciting step to take, but it can also be difficult — especially if you don’t know anyone in the area. Fortunately, that can be quickly remedied. There are plenty of ways to meet people in your new community, and there should be plenty of opportunities right in your neighborhood. If you’re ready to get to know your new neighbors, here are four easy ways to make it happen. Host a...
Home inspections, while not mandatory, are an important part of the homebuying process. They can help you spot potentially dangerous and expensive issues in a property before you buy it, which may be a valuable negotiating tool. But home inspectors aren’t infallible, and they may miss things sometimes. So, how can you ensure the inspection goes smoothly and potential problems are identified? Here’s...
Whether you’re buying a home or selling one (or doing both at once), it’s important to have a real estate professional on your side. After all, there’s a lot of money on the line, and a house is a big investment. An experienced agent can support you as you make your decisions during the process. Are you preparing to buy or sell a home? Here are the benefits of enlisting an agent to help you. For...