Lori Blank, Author at Lori Blank & Associates

04

Dec

Homeowner Tips

How to Appeal Property Taxes on Your Home

Many homeowners are surprised when they receive their annual property tax bill and notice an increase that feels higher than expected. The good news is that you have the right to appeal your property tax assessment if you believe it does not reflect the true value of your home. Understanding the process can help you protect your budget and ensure that you are being taxed fairly. Know What Your Assessment MeansYour property tax bill is based on the value assigned to your home by your local tax authority. This value may not match the current market value. It is an…

03

Dec

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Avoiding the Most Common Home Remodeling Mistakes

Remodeling your home can be exciting, but it can also lead to frustration if you run into unexpected problems. Many homeowners make the same mistakes when they start renovation projects, which can lead to delays, extra costs, and disappointing results. With a little planning and the right guidance, you can avoid these common issues and enjoy a smooth and successful remodel. Lack of a Clear PlanOne of the biggest mistakes is starting a project without a solid plan. A detailed plan helps you understand your budget, timeline, materials, and overall goals. Without this clarity, you may face last-minute changes or…

02

Dec

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Learning the Language of Real Estate for Beginners

Buying a home is exciting, but the language of real estate can feel overwhelming if you are new to the process. Many buyers hear unfamiliar terms at showings, in listings, or during conversations with lenders. Understanding this language gives you more confidence and helps you make informed decisions as you move through your home search. What Real Estate Terms Really MeanReal estate has its own vocabulary, and many of the words describe common parts of the process. Learning these terms makes it easier to understand contracts, compare homes, and communicate with your real estate agent. You do not need to…

01

Dec

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 1st, 2025

Many of the reports scheduled for release last week were delayed yet again, including the anticipated unemployment data. There is an expectation that they will be released next week. The only on-time release was the third-party Consumer Sentiment report from the University of Michigan, which aligned with expectations and generally indicated that consumers remain dissatisfied with the current state of things, citing high prices and consistently weakening incomes. Univ. of Michigan Consumer ReportConsumer sentiment was little changed this month with a 2.6 index point decrease from October that is within the margin of error. After the federal shutdown ended, sentiment…

28

Nov

By Lori Blank

Home Seller Tips

The Science Behind Why Certain Homes Feel More Welcoming

Some homes make people feel comfortable the moment they walk through the door. Even without saying a word, space communicates warmth, calmness, and connection. There is real science behind this reaction and understanding it can help sellers create a more appealing experience for potential buyers. The Power of First ImpressionsPeople form opinions within seconds. A clean entryway, clear pathways, and simple decor help the brain process information more easily. When the mind feels at ease, space feels more inviting. Clutter, on the other hand, increases mental load and can make a home feel smaller or less comfortable. The Role of…

27

Nov

By Lori Blank

Holiday Tips

Thanksgiving Day Appreciation

Today is a moment to pause and reflect on the people who make this work truly meaningful. As a real estate agent, I am grateful for every individual and every family who has allowed me to be part of their home journey. Whether we have worked together in the past, are connected right now, or will meet in the future, your trust means more than you know. Grateful for the JourneyHelping someone find a home is more than a transaction. It is a personal experience filled with emotion, excitement, and major life moments. I am thankful for the opportunity to…

26

Nov

By Lori Blank

Home Seller Tips

Tips for Selling a Home with Limited Storage Space

Selling a home that has limited storage space can feel challenging, but with the right strategy, you can highlight the home's strengths and help buyers focus on possibility rather than limitations. With thoughtful preparation and clear presentation, even a small-space property can make a strong impression. Start with DeclutteringA clean and simplified space always feels larger. Begin by removing items that you do not need for daily living. Clear floors, open shelves, and uncluttered surfaces create the look of more room and help buyers imagine their own belongings in the space. Packing and storing personal items in advance also prepares…

25

Nov

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Understanding the Process of Selling a Home Through a Rent-to-Own Agreement

Selling a home through a rent-to-own agreement can create a flexible path for both sellers and future buyers. This arrangement allows a tenant to live in the home while preparing to purchase it later, giving the seller steady income and a committed future buyer. What a Rent-to-Own Agreement IsA rent-to-own agreement allows a tenant to rent the home while also securing the right, or sometimes the obligation, to purchase it at a later date. The agreement usually includes a set purchase price and a timeline for when the buyer can complete the purchase. This gives the tenant time to save,…

24

Nov

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – November 24th, 2025

This week finally got a strong release of regularly scheduled data, with unemployment figures coming out first, along with employment-rate data. The prior week included the Consumer Price Index, which came in favorable. Some of the unemployment-related numbers, however, weren’t as telling as they could be: the forecast was roughly 50,000, but the actual figure landed closer to 110,000. That’s an order-of-magnitude miss, suggesting we may need to allow some time for the data to self-correct. The coming week is slated to include both the PPI—which has drifted out of sync with the CPI—and the PCE Index. These are the…

21

Nov

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

Understanding the Risks of Buying a Home With a History of Flooding

A home can look beautiful on the surface, but a past flooding event can create long term challenges that buyers need to understand. If you are considering a property with any history of water intrusion, taking time to learn the risks can protect your safety, your finances and your peace of mind. Why Past Flooding MattersEven if the home has been repaired, a flooding event can leave behind hidden problems. Water exposure may weaken structural elements, damage electrical systems or create long term moisture concerns. A property with a flooding history may also be more vulnerable to future events, especially…