Blog

08
May
By Lori Blank
Real Estate

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Buying a New Construction Home

Are you contemplating whether to dive into the real estate market and invest in a new construction home? It's an exciting prospect, but like any significant decision, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. We will discuss the intricacies of this choice to help you navigate your way through. Pros Customization: One of the most enticing aspects of purchasing a new construction home is the ability to customize it to your preferences. From floor plans to fixtures, you often have a say in the design process, allowing you to create a space tailored to your needs and…
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07
May
By Lori Blank
Real Estate

Your Guide to Securing Your Dream Home at the Best Price

Are you ready to start the journey of acquiring your dream home? One of the most exhilarating yet daunting steps in this process is negotiating the deal. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, mastering the art of negotiation can make all the difference in securing your dream home at the best possible price. In this guide, we'll explore some effective real estate negotiation strategies to help you navigate this crucial phase with confidence. Research, Research, Research: Before diving into negotiations, arm yourself with knowledge. Research the local real estate market, recent sale prices of similar properties in…
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06
May
By Lori Blank
Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – May 6th, 2024

Week in Review With the passing of the Federal Open Market Committee rate decision panel, we now have definitively confirmed that the Federal Reserve intends to keep the rates at a two-decade high, for the sixth straight meeting by a unanimous vote. Jerome Powell had stated during the Q&A that they do not intend to cut rates until they have confidence that inflation will, “sustainably stay lower than the 2% objective.” Lending partners have responded in kind by a rush in an increase of rates the last three weeks in a row, with expectations tempered about impending rate cuts any…
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03
May
By Lori Blank
Home Values

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Home with a Backyard Oasis

When hunting for the perfect home, the idea of having an oasis nestled in the comfort of your backyard is undeniably appealing. You can picture the lush greenery, a serene water feature, and perhaps a cozy fire pit to gather around with loved ones. It’s a dream many aspire to achieve. But like any significant decision, there are both pros and cons to consider before taking the plunge into this scenic lifestyle. Let’s start with the positives Serene Retreat: Your backyard oasis serves as a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a place where you can…
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02
May
By Lori Blank
Home Building Tips

Understanding the Risks of Buying a Home with Foundation Issues

Buying a home is often one of life's biggest milestones, marking the start of a new chapter filled with dreams and possibilities. However, beneath the surface of this excitement lies a crucial decision-making process, especially when it comes to the structural integrity of the property. Foundation issues can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and approach, they need not be a deal-breaker. This article with help you understand the risks associated with buying a home with foundation issues, while also exploring the positive aspects of this journey. Recognizing the Red Flags Before diving into the positive side, it's essential…
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01
May
By Lori Blank
Real Estate

Researching Property History Before Buying a Home

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. It's not just about finding the right location or the perfect layout; it's also about understanding the property's history. Knowing the ins and outs of a home's past can save you from potential headaches down the road. So, how can you research a property's history before making the big decision? Let’s look at the steps you can take: 1. Public Records Search One of the first steps in researching a property's history is to dig into public records. These records contain valuable information about the property's ownership,…
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30
Apr
By Lori Blank
Home Buyer Tips

Tips and Insights on Home Buying with Bad Credit

When thinking about homeownership, a perfect credit score often seems like the golden ticket. But what if your credit history isn't picture-perfect? Don't worry; buying a home with bad credit is still within reach. With careful planning and strategic moves, you can turn your dream of homeownership into a reality. Here are some valuable tips and insights to guide you through the process: 1. Know Your Credit Score Inside Out Before plunging into the homebuying journey, arm yourself with knowledge about your credit score. Request a copy of your credit report from all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.…
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29
Apr
By Lori Blank
Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 29th, 2024

At Wednesday's meeting, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is widely expected to maintain the current federal funds rate target range of 5.25% to 5.50%. This decision comes amidst conflicting economic signals. Tailing that, there is the Chicago PMI, Non-farm Payrolls, and the full release of the Consumer Confidence report. All of these are expected to match current economic conditions. The prior week's GDP numbers also factor into the equation, informing that economic growth has slowed this year compared to the previous year for Quarter 1. The PCE Index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred choice of inflation indicators, has shown inflation is…
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26
Apr
By Lori Blank
Real Estate

Mortgages and Divorce: Keeping Your Home During Life’s Changes

Divorce or separation is a challenging time, and amidst the emotional and logistical complexities, handling mortgage issues can add another layer of stress. For many couples, their home represents not just a financial investment but a symbol of stability and security. However, when relationships break down, decisions about homeownership become crucial. Here is some guidance on how to navigate mortgages during a divorce or separation. Communication is Key: Open and honest communication between partners is crucial when it comes to mortgage matters. Discuss your options openly and try to reach a consensus on what to do with the family home.…
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25
Apr
By Lori Blank
Real Estate

The Perks of Buying a Home in a Gated Community

Welcome to our consumer blog, where we delve into the finer details of real estate and homeownership. Today, we're exploring the enticing realm of gated communities and why they might just be the perfect fit for your next home purchase. 1. Enhanced Security: One of the most obvious perks of residing in a gated community is the heightened sense of security it offers. With restricted access points and often round-the-clock security personnel, gated neighborhoods provide a level of safety and peace of mind that is hard to match. For families, this means children can play freely and residents can rest…
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