Lori Blank

16

Aug

Regulatory Enforcement

Understanding Zoning Laws and Regulations for Homebuyers

Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but it's important to be aware of the various factors that can influence your decision. One often overlooked yet crucial aspect is understanding zoning laws and regulations. These rules can significantly impact your property rights and the future use of your home. We will discuss what zoning laws are, why they matter, and how they can affect your homebuying experience. What Are Zoning Laws? Zoning laws are local regulations that dictate how properties in specific geographic zones can be used. These laws are established by local governments and are designed to ensure that…

15

Aug

By Lori Blank

Foreclosure

Understanding Foreclosure and How to Avoid It

As a homeowner, the thought of foreclosure can be daunting. Understanding what foreclosure is and how to prevent it can provide peace of mind and safeguard your investment. What is Foreclosure? Foreclosure is a legal process where a lender attempts to recover the balance of a loan from a borrower who has stopped making payments. The lender forces the sale of the asset used as collateral for the loan—in this case, your home. How Does Foreclosure Work? The foreclosure process typically begins after several missed mortgage payments. First, the lender issues a notice of default, giving you a certain period…

14

Aug

By Lori Blank

Safety Tips

Protecting Your Investment: Home Safety and Security Tips

As a homeowner, your property is not just a place to live—it's a significant investment that deserves protection. Ensuring your home's safety and security is crucial in safeguarding your family and maintaining your property's value. Here are some essential tips to help you protect your investment. 1. Install a Security System First and foremost, consider installing a robust security system. Modern systems offer a range of features, from basic alarms to advanced surveillance cameras and smart home integration. These systems can deter potential intruders and provide peace of mind. 2. Secure Doors and Windows Next, focus on securing your doors…

13

Aug

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Smart Financial Strategies: Better Alternatives to Withdrawing from Your Retirement for Home Buying

When it comes to purchasing a new home, tapping into your retirement savings can seem like a quick fix. However, this decision can have long-term repercussions on your financial future. Instead of withdrawing from your retirement, consider these smarter financial strategies to fund your home purchase. 1. Explore Down Payment Assistance Programs First and foremost, investigate local and federal down payment assistance programs. These programs can significantly reduce the amount of money you need upfront. They often offer grants or low-interest loans, which can make homeownership more accessible without compromising your retirement savings. 2. Utilize Your Home Equity If you…

12

Aug

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 12th, 2024

With so little in the way of data releases following the previous week's FOMC Rate Decision, we’re left with a small release schedule with Consumer Credit and U.S. Trade Deficit rounding up the reports. While relatively light indicators of the current health of the economy, they are still useful for determining more impactful trends in the future. Next week, the inflation data reports with the CPI and PPI are the ones to look out for. This time, these are the ones that will largely determine whether we see rate cuts this year, and lending partners have already been lowering rates…

09

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Buying a Second Home: Should You Rent or Sell Your First Property?

Buying a second home is an exciting milestone. Whether it's a vacation retreat, an investment property, or a future retirement haven, the decision involves many considerations. One of the most important questions you'll face is whether to rent out your first home or sell it. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your financial goals, market conditions, and personal circumstances. Let's discuss the key factors to help you make an informed decision. Renting Out Your First Home Pros: Steady Income Stream: Renting your first home can provide a consistent income stream, which can help…

08

Aug

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Is Buying a Home with Bad Credit a Smart Choice?

Have less-than-optimal credit? That doesn't necessarily mean you have to put your dreams of homeownership on pause. While buying a home with bad credit can be challenging, it’s certainly not impossible. Understanding your options and preparing adequately can turn this daunting task into an achievable goal. Understand Your Credit Situation First and foremost, it's crucial to understand your credit situation. Obtain a copy of your credit report from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and carefully review it for any errors. Correcting mistakes on your report can potentially boost your credit score, making it easier to secure…

07

Aug

By Lori Blank

Home Values

What Does a Home Inspector Look For in a Home You Want to Buy?

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. One critical step in the home-buying process is the home inspection. An inspection is a complete examination by a professional home inspector and ensures the property is in good condition and helps you avoid costly surprises. What exactly does a home inspector look for in a home you want to buy? Let's break it down. Exterior Structure and Foundation First and foremost, the home inspector will assess the exterior structure and foundation. They will check for any visible cracks, signs of settling, or water damage that…

06

Aug

By Lori Blank

Selling Your Home

Tips for a Quick and Profitable Home Sale

Selling your home can be both exciting and overwhelming. The goal is often to sell quickly and for the best possible price. Here are some important tips to help you achieve a quick and profitable sale. 1. Boost Curb Appeal First impressions matter. Therefore, enhancing your home's curb appeal is crucial. Start by tidying up your yard, trimming bushes, and planting flowers. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint on the front door can make a significant difference. 2. Declutter and Depersonalize When potential buyers walk through your home, they should be able to envision themselves living there. Consequently, declutter and…

05

Aug

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 5th, 2024

The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain the current interest rates has paved the way for a potential rate cut in September. While this news has been met enthusiastically by lending partners, the broader markets have indicated a slightly less warm reception despite both the data and Federal Reserve’s intentions being a match. Until September, we can expect a lull in significant data releases, with more substantial decisions anticipated then. FOMC Rate Decision Powell stated that the Federal Reserve seeks "a little more confidence" that inflation is consistently trending downward before taking action. The Federal Reserve’s benchmark short-term interest rate now…