Lori Blank, Author at Lori Blank & Associates

07

Nov

Real Estate Tips

Home Renovation ROI: Which Upgrades Add the Most Value to Your Property

Home renovations can be exciting, but not every project adds the same return on investment. Whether you are planning to sell soon or simply want to boost your property's value, understanding which upgrades offer the best payoff helps you make smart decisions. Strategic improvements can make your home more appealing to buyers and increase its long-term value. Kitchen Improvements That CountThe kitchen is often the heart of the home, and it is one of the first areas buyers notice. You do not have to do a full remodel to make a strong impression. Simple updates such as new countertops, energy-efficient…

06

Nov

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Understanding the Escrow Process in Real Estate Transactions

For many homebuyers, the term escrow can sound confusing or even intimidating. Yet escrow is one of the most important parts of a real estate transaction. It ensures that both the buyer and the seller are protected while the details of the sale are finalized. Understanding how escrow works can help you feel confident and informed every step of the way. What Escrow Means Escrow is a neutral third-party account used to hold funds and important documents during a real estate transaction. The escrow company or agent acts as an impartial party, ensuring that both sides meet the terms of…

05

Nov

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

What to Know About Different Kinds of Homes Before You Buy

When you start shopping for a home, you will quickly notice that not all properties are created equal. From cozy condos to spacious single-family homes, each property type offers a unique lifestyle, level of maintenance, and investment potential. Understanding the differences helps you choose the kind of home that best fits your goals, budget, and way of living. Single-Family HomesA single-family home is one of the most popular choices among buyers. It offers privacy, a yard, and the freedom to personalize your space without shared walls or association restrictions. These homes are ideal for buyers who want room to grow…

04

Nov

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How to Buy a Home Like a Real Estate Pro

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial moves you will ever make, and while it can feel overwhelming, approaching it the way a real estate professional does makes the process smoother and more strategic. With the right preparation and mindset, you can shop confidently and make smart decisions from start to finish. Know Your Budget Before You ShopProfessionals always start with the numbers. Before you begin looking at homes, take time to understand your budget and speak with a trusted lender. Knowing what you can comfortably afford helps you narrow your search and stay focused on homes that…

03

Nov

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – November 3rd, 2025

With the ongoing government shutdown, other major releases have hit a snag, as there is still very limited information for when the shutdown may end. The largest and most impactful releases continuing to move forward are those from third-party sources still publishing data — such as the Consumer Sentiment reports — which show that consumers remain concerned about inflation but have recently grown more optimistic about the labor market. As expected, the Federal Reserve cut rates again by another 25 basis points. However, Chairman Jerome Powell remains skeptical that another rate cut will occur anytime soon. Consumer SentimentConsumers were more…

31

Oct

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

What to Do If Your Home Appraisal Comes in Low

Home appraisals are a crucial step in the home buying process. It determines the property's fair market value and helps lenders decide how much money to loan for the purchase. Ideally, the appraisal matches or exceeds the agreed-upon purchase price. However, when the appraisal comes in lower than expected, it can cause stress for both buyers and sellers. Knowing how to handle this situation calmly and strategically is key to keeping the deal on track. Why Appraisals Come in LowA low appraisal can happen for several reasons. Sometimes, the market moves faster than the data appraisers use, especially in competitive…

30

Oct

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

How to Negotiate Home Repairs After an Inspection

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the home buying process. It gives buyers a clear picture of the property's condition and can uncover issues that are not visible during a showing. From roofing problems to electrical concerns, an inspection helps ensure you know exactly what you are purchasing. However, once the report arrives, the next step, and negotiating repairs, can feel overwhelming. Reviewing the Inspection ReportWhen you receive the inspection report, take time to review it carefully with your real estate agent. Not every issue requires a repair or credit request. Focus on major concerns…

29

Oct

By Lori Blank

Home Seller Tips

What Happens If a Seller Backs Out of a Deal

Buying a home is an emotional and financial journey, and most buyers expect the process to move smoothly once an offer is accepted. However, there are times when a seller decides to back out of the deal. This situation can be stressful, especially for buyers who have already started preparing for closing. Understanding your rights and the possible outcomes can help you respond calmly and confidently. Can a Seller Legally Back Out?Once both parties have signed a purchase agreement, the contract becomes legally binding. This means that in most cases, a seller cannot simply change their mind without valid legal…

28

Oct

By Lori Blank

Home Mortgage Tips

Understanding Mortgages and Inflation and How Borrowers Can Benefit

Inflation affects nearly every part of the economy, from grocery prices to the cost of borrowing. For homeowners and buyers, understanding how inflation impacts mortgage rates and payments can be a powerful advantage. While rising prices can feel discouraging, there are strategic ways borrowers can benefit during inflationary periods. How Inflation Impacts MortgagesWhen inflation rises, the value of money decreases, and interest rates increase. This is because lenders want to protect the value of the money they lend. Higher inflation can mean higher mortgage rates for new loans, which may reduce affordability for buyers. However, for existing homeowners with a…

28

Oct

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

How to Decide Between a Condo, Townhouse, or Single-Family Home

Choosing the right type of home is one of the most important decisions a buyer can make. Condos, townhouses, and single-family homes each offer unique benefits and challenges. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. Understanding what sets them apart can help you make a confident and informed decision. The Condo LifestyleCondos are ideal for buyers who want convenience and minimal maintenance. In most communities, the homeowner's association takes care of exterior upkeep, landscaping, and shared amenities. This can be especially appealing for people with busy schedules or those who prefer not to handle maintenance themselves.…