Lori Blank

19

Jul

Real Estate

Top Surprises When Becoming a New Homeowner

Talk to any homeowner, and they’ll probably tell you how excited they were when they first bought their home. After living there for a while, they're likely to share some unexpected experiences — both pleasant and challenging. From embracing the freedom of owning their property and building memories to facing unexpected costs and endless maintenance tasks, homeownership is full of surprises. Here are some top surprises to expect: 1. The Amount of Maintenance RequiredThe most common surprise for first-time homeowners is the amount of maintenance required. From keeping the home functional to managing costs, maintenance can feel never-ending. Have a…

18

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

How Appraisals Impact the Sale Price of Your Property

When you're selling your home, one crucial step in the process is the home appraisal. This evaluation plays a significant role in determining the sale price of your property. Here’s a guide to understanding home appraisals and their impact on your home sale: What is a Home Appraisal? A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of the fair market value of your property conducted by a certified appraiser. Lenders require appraisals to ensure that the property's value is sufficient to secure the mortgage loan amount. Factors Considered in a Home Appraisal: Property Features: The appraiser evaluates your home's size, condition,…

17

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Challenges and Opportunities Millennials Face in the Housing Market

The generation, born between 1981 and 1996, known as Millennials is forced to face a complex landscape influenced by economic shifts, technological advancements, and changing societal norms. Here’s a closer look at the key hurdles and the potential bright spots for millennial homebuyers. Challenges 1. Student Loan Debt Many millennials are burdened with substantial student loan debt, which affects their ability to save for a down payment and qualify for a mortgage. The average millennial carries around $33,000 in student loan debt, making homeownership seem like a distant dream for many. 2. Rising Home Prices The real estate market has…

16

Jul

By Lori Blank

Mortagage Tips

When to Ask for Repairs vs. Taking a Credit

Buying a home is a significant investment, and ensuring the property is in good condition is crucial. There are times when asking the seller for repairs is the best course of action, but in other situations, requesting a credit may be more beneficial. Understanding when to choose each option can help you navigate the buying process more effectively. The Impact of Loan Types on Repairs Certain loan types, such as Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Veterans Affairs (VA) loans, require the home to meet specific condition standards. If the house doesn’t meet these standards, the loan could be rejected. This…

15

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 15th, 2024

With lofty expectations, the CPI delivered a lower-than-expected inflation increase, leading to a positive uptake across many lending partners and markets. However, the PPI was on the opposite end of that, with a higher-than-expected inflation rate increase, muting the positive response from the CPI data release. The outlook for a rate cut this year has changed, making the potential for it highly likely. Even Jerome Powell, who usually has a more hawkish response regarding rate cuts, is now leaving some room for this possibility. With the outlooks in favor of a rate cut, we’re seeing the impact across many markets as…

15

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 15th, 2024

With lofty expectations, the CPI delivered a lower-than-expected inflation increase, leading to a positive uptake across many lending partners and markets. However, the PPI was on the opposite end of that, with a higher-than-expected inflation rate increase, muting the positive response from the CPI data release. The outlook for a rate cut this year has changed, making the potential for it highly likely. Even Jerome Powell, who usually has a more hawkish response regarding rate cuts, is now leaving some room for this possibility. With the outlooks in favor of a rate cut, we’re seeing the impact across many markets as…

12

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Understanding the Different Types of Deeds in Real Estate

Buying or selling real estate involves a lot of paperwork, and one of the most critical documents in these transactions is the deed. A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of property from one party to another. Understanding the different types of deeds is essential to ensure you make informed decisions in your real estate transactions. 1. General Warranty Deed A General Warranty Deed offers the highest level of protection for the buyer. This type of deed guarantees that the seller holds a clear title to the property and has the right to sell it. It also assures…

11

Jul

By Lori Blank

Around The Home

Roofing Options from Metal and Beyond

When it comes to constructing your house or undertaking home improvement projects, the roof is a crucial component. It's not just about aesthetics; the roof provides essential protection against the elements. Investing both money and time into selecting the right roofing material is vital, and a little extra research can go a long way. The roofing market today offers a plethora of options, each with its own set of advantages, costs, and installation requirements. We will take a look at the benefits of metal roofing and other popular roofing options to help you make an informed decision. Metal Roofing: Strength…

10

Jul

By Lori Blank

Around The Home

The Hidden Benefits of Garden Grading

What is Grading? Grading involves creating a slope in your garden to ensure proper drainage. This process not only helps prevent water accumulation around your home but also contributes to the overall aesthetic and functionality of your outdoor space. Why Grading is Essential 1. Prevents Water Damage Proper grading directs water away from your home, reducing the risk of water damage to your foundation and basement. A well-graded garden ensures that water flows away from your property, keeping your basement dry and your foundation stable. 2. Enhances Aesthetic Appeal A sloped garden can add visual interest and dimension to your…

09

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Fire Risk Higher in Multifamily Buildings

Multifamily residential buildings are at a greater risk for fire because they contain more kitchens, furnaces, water heaters, and other elements that can pose opportunities for a fire to start. Fire safety in multifamily housing is influenced by the design of the building, its fire protection features, the quality of materials used in the building's construction, the building's contents, and overall maintenance. A balanced design comprises three elements: detection, suppression, and compartmentation. Detection: Accurate, early warning is the first line of defense. Detectors that respond to light smoke are important. Each dwelling unit should be equipped with detectors in all…