Blog - Lori Blank & Associates

12

Aug

Real Estate Tips

How to Compare Offers When Selling Your Home

Receiving an offer on your home is exciting, but when multiple numbers, deadlines, and contingencies are involved, deciding which offer is actually the best can be more complicated than it seems. The highest purchase price may immediately grab your attention, but price is only one part of an offer. Financing, contingencies, closing timelines, concessions, and other terms can all affect how much you ultimately receive and how likely the transaction is to reach the closing table. Here are several factors to consider when comparing offers on your home. Look Beyond the Purchase Price Naturally, the amount a buyer is willing…

11

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Corner Lot

A corner lot can make a home feel more open, visible, and spacious. Buyers are often drawn to the additional street frontage, larger-looking yard, and fewer immediate neighbors on one side. However, corner properties can also come with responsibilities and tradeoffs that are easy to overlook during a showing. Asking the right questions before making an offer can help you decide whether the property truly fits your lifestyle. Understand the Property Boundaries Corner lots often have unusual shapes, larger setbacks, or utility easements that affect how the yard can be used. Ask for a survey or available property records so…

10

Aug

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 10th, 2026

While unemployment rates have fallen to their lowest levels since 2025, they have not fallen for the right reasons. Many people who have dropped out of the labor force have also stopped looking for work, which can skew the unemployment numbers. This has been followed by a smaller-than-expected increase in hourly pay, which has continued to lag behind inflation, especially in the current environment. This weakness has also been reflected in a reduction in overall payrolls, indicating an overall decline in employment. As a result, these labor market conditions could make the Federal Reserve more hesitant to raise rates. U.S.…

07

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How to Think Long Term When Choosing a Home

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make, and while it is easy to focus on your current needs, it is equally important to think about the years ahead. The home that fits your lifestyle today should also have the flexibility to support your future goals. Looking beyond your immediate needs can help you make a decision you will feel confident about for years to come. Consider How Life May Change Life rarely stays the same for long. Career opportunities, family growth, retirement plans, or lifestyle changes may all influence how you use your…

06

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

What to Know About HOA Communities Before You Buy

Many homebuyers are attracted to neighborhoods with well-maintained landscaping, community amenities, and a consistent appearance. These neighborhoods are often governed by a Homeowners Association, commonly known as an HOA. Before purchasing a home in one of these communities, it is important to understand how an HOA operates and how it may affect your daily life and monthly budget. Understand the Monthly Fees Most HOA communities require homeowners to pay monthly, quarterly, or annual dues. These fees help maintain common areas, amenities, neighborhood landscaping, and shared facilities such as pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, or walking trails. Before making an offer, ask…

05

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

The Value of Touring Homes Even Before You Are Ready to Buy

Many people believe they should wait until they are ready to make an offer before touring homes. In reality, visiting properties early in the process can be one of the smartest decisions a future buyer makes. Touring homes helps you understand the local market, refine your priorities, and gain confidence long before it is time to purchase. Learn What Your Budget Can Buy Online listings provide useful information, but they rarely tell the complete story. Walking through homes allows you to compare layouts, room sizes, finishes, and neighborhoods in person. You may discover that your budget stretches farther than expected…

04

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

What Makes a Home Feel Like the Right One

Buying a home is about more than comparing square footage, counting bedrooms, or checking items off a wish list. While those details certainly matter, many buyers discover there is another factor that cannot always be measured on paper. Sometimes a home simply feels right. Understanding what creates that feeling can help you make a confident decision without losing sight of the practical considerations that matter most. Look Beyond the Features Two homes may offer similar layouts, finishes, and prices, yet one immediately feels more inviting than the other. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel as you move through each…

03

Aug

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 3rd, 2026

With the Federal Reserve meeting now concluded, and the board has decided to maintain current interest rates. However, attention remains focused on the potential for rate hikes at the next meeting. While inflation has continued to decline on a month-to-month basis, the overall year-over-year inflation rate remains well above the Federal Reserve's target. The PCE Index came in within expectations and has remained largely flat for the first time since the pandemic. Even so, inflation remains a significant challenge overall, as consumers continue to feel the effects of higher fuel and energy prices, along with rising household costs. Personal income…

31

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

How to Decide Whether a New Construction Home Is Right for You

Buying a newly built home can be an exciting option for many buyers. From modern floor plans to energy-efficient features, new construction offers benefits that existing homes may not. At the same time, purchasing a brand-new home comes with its own considerations. Understanding both the advantages and potential tradeoffs can help you determine whether a new construction home is the right fit for your lifestyle and long-term goals. Consider the Benefits of New ConstructionOne of the biggest advantages of a newly built home is that everything is brand new. Major systems, appliances, roofing, and mechanical equipment typically require less maintenance…

30

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Why Your First Offer Does Not Have to Be Your Last

Buying a home can be an emotional experience, especially if your first offer is not accepted. In a competitive market, it is common for sellers to receive multiple offers, and not every buyer will secure the first home they pursue. While it can be disappointing, an unsuccessful offer does not mean your homeownership journey is over. In many cases, it is simply one step toward finding the right home. Understand Why Offers Are RejectedThere are many reasons an offer may not be accepted. Another buyer may have offered a higher price, fewer contingencies, or a faster closing timeline. Sometimes the…