Blog - Lori Blank & Associates

03

Jun

Homeowner Tips

The Home Feature You Love Today That Could Annoy You Later

Every home has features that create an immediate reaction. A dramatic staircase, huge yard, open shelving, long driveway, pool, loft, fireplace, or oversized soaking tub can make a buyer fall in love quickly. But some features that feel exciting during a showing can become annoying after move in. The difference is usually maintenance, practicality, and how often you actually use the feature. Beauty Can Bring UpkeepTake open shelving, for example. It can look beautiful in photos and make a kitchen feel stylish. But it also requires constant organization and cleaning. If you prefer low maintenance storage, traditional cabinets may serve…

02

Jun

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

The Overlooked Power of Natural Light When Buying a Home

Natural light can change how a home feels, functions, and even how you use it day to day. Buyers often notice whether a home feels bright during a showing, but they may not fully evaluate how light moves through the space or how much it matters to their lifestyle. Paint, furniture, and décor can be changed. The direction of sunlight is much harder to adjust. Light Changes the Feel of SpaceA bright home often feels larger, warmer, and more inviting. Natural light can make rooms feel more open and can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. For…

01

Jun

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 1st, 2026

The PCE Index inflation data has been released on schedule, and it paints a rather grim outlook for the future. Inflation has reached a three-year high, and given that it is the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, it does not bode well for any impending rate cuts and may even raise the possibility of future rate increases. This is somewhat offset by consumer spending having exceeded expectations, but this appears to be entirely related to high fuel prices, whether consumers want to spend that much or not. PCE IndexThe main inflation barometer preferred by the Federal Reserve rose to…

29

May

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

Why Closing Day Is Not the Finish Line

Closing day feels like the end of the homebuying journey. You sign the documents, receive the keys, and finally become a homeowner. It is a major milestone worth celebrating. But from a mortgage and financial planning perspective, closing day is not the finish line. It is the starting point of a new phase. Track the Real Cost of Living There The first few months after closing are important because your housing costs become real. You may have estimated utilities, maintenance, and repairs during the buying process, but now you see what the home actually costs to run. Electric bills, water usage,…

28

May

By Lori Blank

Mortgage Tips

Why Your Down Payment Has a Personality

A down payment is often treated like a simple number. Buyers ask whether they need 3%, 5%, 10%, or 20% down. While the amount matters, the personality of your down payment matters too. In other words, where the money comes from, how long it has been saved, how it affects your remaining cash, and what it says about your financial strategy all play a role. The Steady Down Payment Some down payments are steady and planned. These buyers save overtime, keep funds in one account, and have a clear paper trail. This kind of down payment usually feels organized because the…

27

May

By Lori Blank

Home Buying Tips

Why Buyers Should Not Overlook the Unexciting Home

In a world full of dramatic kitchens, spa bathrooms, statement lighting, and perfect social media homes, the boring house often gets overlooked. It may not photograph beautifully. It may have plain walls, older carpet, basic cabinets, or landscaping that needs attention. But for some buyers, the boring house can be one of the smartest mortgage decisions they make. Boring Does Not Mean Bad A boring house is not the same as a bad house. A bad house may have serious structural problems, unsafe conditions, or repair costs that do not fit your budget. A boring house is different. It is usually…

26

May

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – May 26th, 2026

With the prior week’s release of the inflation data and next week’s release of the PCE Index data — the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measure — it has been an exceptionally light week for economic releases. The only notable reports were Leading Economic Indicators and Consumer Sentiment, both of which showed declines. Consumer sentiment, in particular, has seen a significant drop since the change in administration, reaching lows not seen in decades. U.S. Leading Economic IndicatorsThe Conference Board Leading Economic Index (LEI) for the US rose slightly by 0.1% in April 2026 to 97.4 (2016=100), following a 0.6% decline in…

22

May

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Definitions

The Essential Real Estate Terms Every Buyer Should Understand

Entering the home buying process without understanding key real estate terms can quickly lead to confusion and hesitation. The more familiar you are with the language used throughout a transaction, the more confident and prepared you will feel when making decisions. Whether you are reviewing contracts, speaking with professionals, or evaluating a property, knowing these terms helps you stay in control of the process. Understanding the Purchase AgreementThe purchase agreement is one of the most important documents you will encounter. This contract outlines the terms of the sale, including the agreed-upon price, contingencies, timelines, and responsibilities of both the buyer…

21

May

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Finding the Right Home by Knowing What Truly Matters

Choosing a home is more than just liking how it looks, it is about finding a space that fits your lifestyle, your future plans, and your financial comfort. Many buyers struggle with decision making because they have not clearly defined what matters most to them before they begin searching, which can lead to wasted time and unnecessary stress. Define Your Must-Haves FirstStart by identifying the features you absolutely need in a home. This could include the number of bedrooms, layout, storage space, or functionality for your daily routine. Your must-haves should reflect how you live, not just what looks appealing…

20

May

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Your Roadmap to Buying a Home with Confidence

Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions you will make, and having a clear roadmap can make the entire process feel far more manageable. Without a plan, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or make rushed decisions. When you understand each step and prepare ahead of time, you can move forward with confidence and avoid the common mistakes that slow buyers down. Understand Your Financial Starting PointBefore you begin looking at homes, take a close look at your financial situation. This includes your income, savings, monthly expenses, and any existing debt. Knowing what you can realistically afford…