Blog - Page 12 of 129 - Lori Blank & Associates

22

Jul

Real Estate Tips

Smart Home Features That Add Value to Your Property

Smart ThermostatsA smart thermostat is one of the most popular smart home upgrades. These devices allow homeowners to control heating and cooling remotely using a smartphone. Smart thermostats can learn your preferences over time, helping you save energy and reduce monthly utility costs. Buyers appreciate the combination of convenience and efficiency that smart thermostats offer, making them a worthwhile investment when preparing your home for sale. Security Systems with CamerasModern security systems do more than sound alarms. Systems with cameras, motion detectors, and remote access features help homeowners monitor their property from anywhere. Potential buyers find these systems reassuring, especially…

21

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 21st, 2025

While inflation has slowed down since the pandemic, it is showing a faster-than-expected rise for consumers, as the CPI (Consumer Price Index) has reported a higher than expected 0.3% increase, contrasted to the 0.2% expected increase. Meanwhile, the PPI (Producer Price Index) has proven to be entirely flat, with the largest takeaway being that signs of tariff-related inflation are — at best — scattered among data reports, leading to many speculating that the impacts have been overestimated. Given continued inflation for consumers, it is very unlikely the Federal Reserve will make any adjustments to the rate as it adopts a…

18

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

From Search to Keys How Long Does Buying a Home Take

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming if you are not sure what to expect. One of the most common questions from homebuyers is how long the process takes from start to finish. The answer depends on several factors, but knowing the general timeline can help you plan and reduce stress. The Home Search PhaseFinding the right home can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. This phase includes deciding what you want in a home, searching listings, attending showings, and narrowing down your choices. Some buyers find their perfect home quickly,…

17

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

The Truth About Buying a Home with No Money Down

For many first-time homebuyers, the idea of purchasing a home with no money down sounds too good to be true. It is often advertised as a dream scenario, but the reality is more nuanced. There are options out there that allow for low or no down payment, but they come with specific requirements and considerations. Understanding these options can help you make a smart and informed decision as you plan your path to homeownership. Understanding No Money Down ProgramsThere are a few loan programs that offer the possibility of buying a home without a down payment. Two of the most…

16

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

Beyond the Mortgage Payment What Homeownership Really Costs

Owning a home is a major milestone and a meaningful investment. It offers stability, personal freedom, and the chance to build equity over time. However, while many buyers focus on saving for the down payment and qualifying for a loan, there are additional expenses that often catch new homeowners off guard. Understanding the hidden costs of homeownership can help you prepare financially and avoid surprises. Property Taxes and InsuranceOnce you own a home, you are responsible for property taxes, which vary depending on your location and the value of your property. These are recurring costs that can increase over time.…

15

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

How to Tell If a Home Purchase Price Is Truly a Good Deal

Buying a home is one of the largest investments most people will make. It is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to decide whether the home you love is priced fairly. So how do you know if you are getting a good deal? The answer involves more than just looking at the listing price. Here are the key factors to consider. Compare Similar Homes in the AreaThe best way to evaluate a home’s value is to compare it to recent sales in the neighborhood. These are often referred to as comparable sales, and they…

14

Jul

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 14th, 2025

This was an extremely light release week with only the Consumer Credit Report. The amount of expected credit was expected to rise but only showed half the growth — a sign that things are still in stable condition. The most important reports will be featured with next week's releases of inflation data in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Producer Price Index (PPI), as well as the Federal Reserve’s Beige book. The Trump Administration has also further extended the pauses on the tariffs which has been a welcome relief. Consumer CreditTotal U.S. consumer credit growth slowed to a $5.1…

11

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Tips for Selling a Home with Small Bedrooms

When it comes to selling a home, not every room needs to be oversized to impress potential buyers. While large bedrooms may be ideal, smaller spaces can still add value if they are presented well. If your home has compact bedrooms, there are strategic ways to highlight their functionality, comfort, and charm. With the right approach, you can turn a perceived drawback into a unique selling point. Focus on Function and PurposeBuyers want to visualize how they will use each room. Help them see the potential of a smaller bedroom by staging it with intention. Consider setting it up as…

10

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Vacation Home

The idea of owning a vacation home is a dream for many. Imagine having a personal getaway spot to escape the everyday hustle, a place where you can unwind and make memories with family and friends. While the idea is appealing, owning a second home is a big decision that comes with both advantages and responsibilities. If you are considering purchasing a vacation home, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before moving forward. The Pros of Buying a Vacation Home Consistent Access to Your Favorite DestinationOne of the biggest advantages of owning a vacation home is the…

09

Jul

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

The Benefits of Using a Real Estate Agent and Why You Need a Pro on Your Side

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. With so much at stake, having a real estate professional on your side is not just helpful, it is essential. A licensed agent brings knowledge, negotiation skills, and peace of mind to the process, helping you avoid costly mistakes and make confident choices. Expert Guidance from Start to FinishA real estate agent understands the local market inside and out. From pricing a home correctly to identifying red flags during a showing, agents provide expert advice every step of the way. They keep up…