Blog - Page 23 of 129 - Lori Blank & Associates

19

Feb

Homeowner Tips

Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Costs

With the cost of everything rising, homeowners are looking for ways to save wherever they can. One expense that often gets overlooked is homeowners insurance. While it is essential to protect your investment, there are ways to lower your premiums without sacrificing coverage. Here are some strategies to help you secure quality insurance at a fair price. Shop Around for the Best RatesInsurance rates can vary significantly between providers, so it pays to shop around. Compare quotes from multiple companies and check with your state’s insurance department for additional resources. When comparing policies, don’t just look at price—make sure the…

18

Feb

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 18th, 2025

The major inflation data reports have been released, and the initial readings indicate that inflation has exceeded expectations. While the data suggests that the Federal Reserve is unlikely to allow any further rate cuts beyond those already implemented, optimism remains in the broader lending markets. This optimism is driven by expectations that the new administration may introduce changes to monetary policy in the longer term. Although inflation has come in higher than expected, it remains to be seen what next week's PCE Index—the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation indicator—will reveal. Consumer Price Index (CPI) Consumer price data for goods and services…

17

Feb

By Lori Blank

Holidays

Presidents’ Day and the American Dream of Homeownership

Presidents’ Day is a time to reflect on leadership, vision, and the pursuit of big goals. Throughout history, homeownership has been a key part of the American Dream, a foundation for stability, growth, and opportunity.If owning a home is one of your goals this year, now is a great time to start planning. Market conditions, loan options, and expert guidance can all help make your journey easier. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to a new space, or refinancing for better terms, having a clear strategy can make all the difference. Homeownership is a big step, but with the…

14

Feb

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

Helping Your Pets Adjust to a New Home

Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet stressful experience—not just for you, but for your pets as well. Animals thrive on routine and familiarity, so a new environment can be overwhelming. Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, bird, or other pet, here are some essential tips to help them adjust smoothly and feel at home in their new surroundings. Introduce Moving Supplies GraduallyBefore the move, allow your pets to get accustomed to moving boxes, packing materials, and the changes happening around them. Sudden disruptions can cause stress, so place boxes around the house gradually and let…

13

Feb

By Lori Blank

Taxes

Common Places to Find Tax Deductions in Your Home

Paying your income taxes each year leaves your wallet a bit thin? There may be money hiding in your home that lessens your tax burden. Here are four places to look: 1. Home-Office Deduction If you work from home, you could qualify for a home-office deduction. Taking the deduction can be a bit complicated; so many people who qualify don't claim the exemption. An estimated 26 million Americans have home offices, but only 3.4 million claim them on their tax return. Perhaps that's why the Internal Revenue Service attempted to simplify the process in 2013. The write-off takes into account…

12

Feb

By Lori Blank

Home Care

Common Household Dangers and How to Prevent Them

Your home should be a place of comfort and safety, but hidden dangers can pose serious risks to you and your family. Identifying and addressing these hazards is essential to maintaining a secure living environment. Here are some of the most common household dangers and how to prevent them. Electrical IssuesOutdated wiring, faulty electrical systems, and exposed wires can increase the risk of electrical fires and shocks. Regularly inspect your home’s electrical system and hire a licensed electrician for any needed repairs. Mold GrowthMold thrives in damp, warm environments and can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and even structural damage. Ensure…

11

Feb

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

5 Things I Really Don’t Care About as Your Real Estate Agent

When you’re working with a realtor, it’s easy to feel like you need to impress us with how much you know or worry that we’re judging your choices. Let me set the record straight—there are a lot of things I truly don’t care about. My focus is on helping you achieve your real estate goals, no matter where you’re starting from. Here are five things you never need to stress about with me: 1. How much research you’ve doneWhether you’ve been Googling every real estate term under the sun or you’re coming in with no clue where to start, I’ve…

10

Feb

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 10th, 2025

Last week's reports were plentiful, but few had a greater impact on the lending and broader markets. The most significant among them were the Nonfarm Payrolls, Consumer Credit, and Consumer Sentiment reports. Currently, considerable movement within the government administration is contributing to widespread uncertainty and instability across various markets. Additionally, the recent outbreak of Avian Flu has driven poultry prices sharply higher, further adding to consumer unease. This uncertainty is reflected in the Consumer Sentiment reports, which have seen their most significant decline since July, as inflation concerns intensify. Meanwhile, Consumer Credit data came in worse than expected, while job…

10

Feb

By Lori Blank

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 10th, 2025

Last week's reports were plentiful, but few had a greater impact on the lending and broader markets. The most significant among them were the Nonfarm Payrolls, Consumer Credit, and Consumer Sentiment reports. Currently, considerable movement within the government administration is contributing to widespread uncertainty and instability across various markets. Additionally, the recent outbreak of Avian Flu has driven poultry prices sharply higher, further adding to consumer unease. This uncertainty is reflected in the Consumer Sentiment reports, which have seen their most significant decline since July, as inflation concerns intensify. Meanwhile, Consumer Credit data came in worse than expected, while job…

07

Feb

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Winning the Bid in a Competitive Real Estate Market

In today’s competitive real estate market, bidding wars have become an all-too-common occurrence. As more buyers seek limited inventory, properties often receive multiple offers, creating a challenging and sometimes stressful environment. However, with the right strategies in place, you can navigate these bidding wars effectively and secure your dream home. Here are key strategies to help you stand out and win in a competitive market. 1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage One of the most important steps in a bidding war is ensuring your financial readiness. Sellers are more likely to consider offers from buyers who have been pre-approved for…