Blog - Lori Blank & Associates

09

Feb

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 9th, 2026

While Consumer Sentiment has inched up slightly, Consumer Credit tells a different story. Credit usage has continued to rise, suggesting increased financial strain on consumers amid ongoing economic pressures such as inflation. Although another rate cut is still expected, its likelihood remains uncertain under the current administration. Consumer SentimentConsumer sentiment was essentially unchanged, inching up less than one index point from last month and sitting about 20% below January 2025. Sentiment surged for consumers with the largest stock portfolios, while it stagnated and remained at dismal levels for consumers without stock holdings.Consumer CreditIn 2025, consumer credit increased 2.4 percent, with…

06

Feb

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

What Homeowners Need to Know About the Benefits of a Home Energy Audit

With rising utility costs and growing awareness around sustainability, many homeowners are looking for practical ways to improve energy efficiency. One of the most effective first steps is scheduling a home energy audit. A home energy audit is a professional evaluation of how your home uses energy and where improvements can be made to reduce waste, lower costs, and enhance comfort. Identifying Areas of Energy LossA home energy audit provides a detailed look at where your home may be losing energy. Certified auditors assess insulation, heating and cooling systems, windows, appliances, and lighting to determine what areas are contributing to…

05

Feb

By Lori Blank

Home Selling Tips

Should You Sell Your Home As-Is?

When preparing to sell a home, homeowners have several paths to consider. One option that is becoming increasingly common is selling a property as-is. This means the home is listed and sold in its current condition, without the seller completing repairs or renovations before closing. While this approach can offer convenience, it is important to understand both the benefits and potential trade-offs before making a decision. Pros of Selling a Home As-IsSelling a home as-is can be an appealing choice for homeowners who want a simpler and faster selling experience. Because no repairs are required, sellers can avoid the time,…

04

Feb

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Investing in a Sustainable Future Green Real Estate

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, an increasing number of investors and homebuyers are recognizing the importance of sustainability and eco-friendliness. Green real estate, which encompasses properties designed with a focus on environmental efficiency and resource conservation, is gaining prominence as a smart and responsible investment. This blog explores the key aspects of green real estate and why it is becoming an attractive option for consumers. Environmental Benefits of Green Real Estate:Green real estate developments prioritize eco-friendly construction practices and materials. These projects often incorporate renewable energy sources, efficient insulation, and sustainable landscaping. By choosing green real estate, investors…

03

Feb

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Why Flexible Bonus Rooms Matter More Than Home Theaters

When you are searching for a home, it is easy to get excited about dramatic features like built-in home theaters. They look impressive, they photograph well, and they feel luxurious during a showing. But as real estate professionals, we see something different in day-to-day living. Most buyers end up valuing flexible bonus rooms far more than dedicated home theaters. A bonus room can adapt to your changing lifestyle, while a home theater often serves one purpose and one purpose only. Understanding the difference helps you choose a home that supports how you actually live. Bonus Rooms Adapt as Your Life…

02

Feb

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 2nd, 2026

While many were optimistic about an additional rate cut, the Federal Reserve has decided to maintain current interest rates pending further data. They have previously stated that at least one more rate cut would follow the last one, but their stance now appears to depend on the availability of sufficient supporting data. Recent Core PPI reports have also been released, and the data conflicted with earlier CPI and non-core PPI reports. The reports showed that inflation for producers along major production pathways has increased more than expected. This is likely to result in a noticeable increase in wholesale prices across…

30

Jan

By Lori Blank

Homebuyer Tips

What to Weigh Before Moving Your Family to a New School District

Choosing a home often means choosing a school district, and for many families, this becomes one of the most important parts of the homebuying process. A strong school district can support your child's education, shape daily routines, and even influence long-term property value. As real estate professionals, we help families evaluate school districts not just academically but practically, so they can make a choice that supports both their lifestyle and their investment. Consider the Academic Reputation of the DistrictAcademic performance is usually the first factor familiesí review. Test scores, graduation rates, teacher qualifications, and school rankings offer a general picture…

29

Jan

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

What Peeling Paint and Sticky Doors May Be Telling You

When you walk through a home, the little details can reveal more than you might expect. Peeling paint and sticky doors may look like small cosmetic issues, but they can signal deeper problems that should not be ignored. As real estate professionals, we encourage buyers to pay close attention to these signs during showings and inspections. Understanding what these issues may be telling you helps protect your investment and gives you a clearer picture of the home's true condition. Peeling Paint May Signal Moisture IssuesPeeling or bubbling paint is often caused by moisture trapped behind the surface. While it can…

28

Jan

By Lori Blank

Personal Finance

The Most Overrated Home Features and What Buyers Actually Use

When you are shopping for a home, it is easy to be distracted by features that look impressive during a showing but do not add much value to your everyday life. As real estate professionals, we see buyers fall in love with flashy upgrades that end up unused while overlooking practical features that make a home truly comfortable. Knowing which features are overrated and which ones buyers genuinely rely on can help you choose a home that fits your lifestyle instead of one that simply looks good online. Expensive High-End Appliances Versus Everyday FunctionLuxury appliances often look beautiful, but many…

27

Jan

By Lori Blank

Personal Finance

The Long-Term Impact of Buying Next to Commercial Property

When you start shopping for a home, location becomes one of the most important factors in the decision-making process. One choice buyers often overlook is whether the home is located next to commercial property. At first glance, living near shops, restaurants, or offices may seem convenient. But as real estate professionals, we know that commercial neighbors can bring long-term benefits as well as long-term challenges. Understanding the full impact helps you decide whether the location supports your lifestyle and your investment. Evaluate Noise, Activity, and Daily TrafficCommercial properties create activity, and that activity can lead to noise, traffic, and busy…