Lori Blank, Author at Lori Blank & Associates

05

Sep

Real Estate

How to Spot a Good Investment Property Before Everyone Else Does

Investing in real estate can be a powerful way to build wealth, but not all properties are created equal. The key to successful investment is identifying opportunities before the competition does. From understanding market trends to analyzing property fundamentals, knowing what to look for can make all the difference between a profitable investment and a costly mistake. Location, Location, Location One of the most important factors in identifying a strong investment property is location. Look for areas with growing employment opportunities, good schools, and convenient amenities. Neighborhoods with increasing property values and low crime rates tend to attract long-term tenants…

04

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Pet-Centered House Hunting, Why Fenced Yards and Pet-Friendly HOAs Are Dealmakers

When buyers walk into a home, their attention is often drawn to one particular space more than any other, the kitchen. It is no coincidence that real estate professionals often call the kitchen the heart of the home. Beyond its practical function, the kitchen carries emotional and psychological weight that can influence a buyer’s decision more than any other room. The Emotional Connection The kitchen is where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are created. It represents comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Buyers often imagine themselves cooking Sunday dinners, hosting friends for brunch, or helping children with homework while preparing…

03

Sep

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Why Buyers Fall in Love with Kitchens, The Psychology Behind the Most Important Room in the House

When buyers walk into a home, their attention is often drawn to one particular space more than any other, the kitchen. It is no coincidence that real estate professionals often call the kitchen the heart of the home. Beyond its practical function, the kitchen carries emotional and psychological weight that can influence a buyer’s decision more than any other room. The Emotional Connection The kitchen is where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are created. It represents comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Buyers often imagine themselves cooking Sunday dinners, hosting friends for brunch, or helping children with homework while preparing…

02

Sep

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 2nd 2025

With the release of the PCE Index, inflation has shown to still be creeping upwards but there is significant speculation that the Federal Reserve will continue with their interest rate cut in the future. Meanwhile, the Consumer Sentiment report has been growing pessimistic amidst the job market, which has been shown to be in a pattern of cooling down. This is offset by the strong growth by the GDP estimates for the second quarter, as it was initially predicted the tariff changes would have a significant impact on the GDP estimates, but the impact has been less prominent than expected.PCE…

01

Sep

By Lori Blank

Holidays

Happy Labor Day!

Today we honor the hard work and dedication that helps families build the lives they dream of. Labor Day isn’t just about a well-deserved day off, it is about celebrating what that hard work makes possible… like creating memories in a home you love. Whether you’re relaxing on the porch, hosting a backyard BBQ, or spending quality time with loved ones, home is where the best moments happen. As a real estate professional, it’s an honor to help people find not just a house, but a place where all their hard work pays off. Wishing you a safe, restful, and…

29

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

How Virtual Tours and Smart Marketing Are Changing the Way Homes Are Sold

The real estate industry has seen a dramatic transformation in recent years. Technology has reshaped how homes are marketed and sold, creating a faster, more engaging experience for buyers and sellers alike. Virtual tours and advanced marketing strategies are at the forefront of this change, offering unique benefits that were once unimaginable. The Rise of Virtual Tours: Virtual tours have revolutionized the home buying process. Buyers can now explore properties from the comfort of their own homes, viewing every room and detail with just a few clicks. This convenience saves time, reduces the need for multiple in-person showings, and helps…

28

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

10 Questions You Should Always Ask Before Buying a Home

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make. It is an exciting process, but it can also be overwhelming if you do not ask the right questions. Knowing what to ask can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that the home you choose fits your needs and budget. What is my total budget? Understanding your full budget goes beyond the listing price. You need to factor in taxes, insurance, maintenance, and unexpected expenses. Having a clear idea of what you can afford prevents financial strain after the purchase. Why is the seller moving?…

27

Aug

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Why Home Offices and Flexible Spaces Top Buyer Wish Lists

What started as a temporary solution during the pandemic has now become a permanent lifestyle for millions of people. Remote work, hybrid schedules, and flexible careers have transformed not just how we work, but how we live. Today’s homebuyers are looking for more than bedrooms and kitchens. They want functional spaces that support productivity, privacy, and comfort. A dedicated home office or flexible space is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. Why the Home Office Matters More Than EverThe traditional spare bedroom with a desk in the corner is not enough for many buyers today. Home offices are…

26

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Why Some Homeowners Move Often While Others Stay Forever

A forever home is often imagined as the place you will live for decades. It is where families grow, memories are created, and life milestones are celebrated. For some people, this vision becomes reality. For others, the thought of staying in one place for life feels restrictive. Instead, they move every five to seven years, searching for new opportunities and experiences. So why do some homeowners stay forever while others are constantly on the move? Personality Shapes Housing ChoicesPersonality plays a major role in how we view our homes. Some people value stability, routine, and deep community connections. For them,…

25

Aug

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 25th, 2025

The FOMC meeting that was held the previous week to discuss upcoming decisions addressed the future of the economic landscape. During his remarks, Jerome Powell stated that inflation will rise in the future, with consumers bearing the burden. Many have speculated that this means reductions in current rates are unlikely to happen anytime soon, in an attempt to keep inflation under control. Another notable release was the leading economic indicators, which once again showed contraction—signaling the potential for further economic decline. Leading Economic IndicatorsThe Leading Economic Indicator (LEI) for the US inched down by 0.1% in July 2025 to 98.7…