Blog

07
Sep
By lizlaurenb
Home Seller Tips

The Five Most Common Overlooked Expenses When Selling a House

Most homeowners are so enthusiastic about putting their home on the market and getting the price they're hoping for that the expenses involved in selling a home are forgotten. However, it's often said that one has to spend money to make money, and selling a home is no exception! If you're wondering what kinds of overlooked expenses will cut into your home sale, here are some costs to consider. Minor Renovations There are always a few things to fix-up when it comes time to sell your home, but by establishing what will best increase your home's value, you can make…
Read More
06
Sep
By lizlaurenb
Real Estate

Vacation Home or First Mortgage Payoff?

Imagine having some extra cash on hand, enough to make a significant financial decision that could potentially shape your future. You've worked hard to build equity in your home, and now you find yourself at a crossroads. Should you invest in a vacation home or use the money to pay off your first mortgage? Vacation Home-Pros A Place to Escape: Owning a vacation home provides you with a tranquil getaway, a place to unwind and recharge. It offers the potential for making lasting memories with family and friends. Rental Income: If you decide not to use the vacation home year-round,…
Read More
05
Sep
By lizlaurenb
Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 5, 2023

Last week’s economic reporting included readings on inflation, consumer sentiment, and weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims.    Inflation Rates Are Similar in August Month-to-month, the inflation rate holds relatively steady at 3.18 percent. This is slightly up when compared to 2.97 percent last month; however, it is significantly lower than the rate of 8.52 percent last year. When compared to the long-term average, inflation is trending in the right direction, as the long-term average is 3.2 percent. Inflation rose at a pace of 0.20 percent in July and met analysts’ expectations. There was no change in the…
Read More
01
Sep
By lizlaurenb
Real Estate

What Is A Floating Interest Rate?

A floating interest rate, also known as a variable interest rate or an adjustable rate, is an interest rate that can change over time. Unlike a fixed interest rate, which remains constant for the entire duration of a loan or investment, a floating interest rate fluctuates periodically based on certain factors or benchmarks. The advantage of a floating interest rate is that it can offer flexibility. When interest rates are low, borrowers can benefit from reduced interest payments. However, if interest rates rise, the cost of borrowing will also increase. How Does A Floating Rate Work? A floating interest rate…
Read More
31
Aug
By lizlaurenb
Real Estate

What Are The Pros And Cons Of ‘No-Deposit’ Mortgage Deals For First-Time Buyers?

"No-deposit" mortgage deals for first-time buyers refer to mortgage options that allow buyers to purchase a home without having to put down a deposit or a down payment. Here are the pros and cons of such deals: Pros: Lower upfront costs: The most significant advantage of a no-deposit mortgage is that it eliminates the need for a substantial upfront deposit. This can be beneficial for first-time buyers who may struggle to save a large sum of money for a deposit. It allows them to enter the property market sooner. Increased affordability: With a no-deposit mortgage, first-time buyers can purchase a…
Read More
30
Aug
By lizlaurenb
Real Estate

Reasons You Need an Insurance Binder and How to Get One

An insurance binder for mortgage loans is a document that provides proof of insurance coverage for a property that is being financed with a mortgage loan. Mortgage lenders require borrowers to have insurance coverage on their property to protect their investment in case of damage or loss. When a borrower applies for a mortgage loan, the lender typically requires proof of insurance coverage before they will approve the loan. An insurance binder is a document issued by the insurance company that provides temporary proof of insurance coverage until the official insurance policy is issued. The insurance binder for mortgage loans…
Read More
23
Aug
By lizlaurenb
Real Estate Tips

How the Purchase and Refinance Mortgage Process Works

The purchase and refinance mortgage processes are similar in many ways, but there are also some important differences. Here is a general overview of how each process typically works: Purchase Mortgage Process Determine your budget: Before you start shopping for a home, you need to figure out how much you can afford to spend. You can do this by calculating your monthly income, expenses, and debt, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Find a property: Once you know your budget, you can start looking for homes that fit your criteria, whether that's size, location, or other factors. Make an offer:…
Read More
22
Aug
By lizlaurenb
Home Care Tips

Improve Your Curb Appeal With Low Maintenance Landscaping

Low maintenance landscaping can be a great way to improve your home's curb appeal without having to spend a lot of time and money on upkeep. Here are some ideas for low maintenance landscaping: Plant native species: Native plants are adapted to the local climate and require less water and maintenance than non-native plants. Use mulch: Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil and suppresses weed growth. Plus, it looks neat and tidy. Decorative Concrete: Decorative concrete is a type of concrete that has been designed to enhance the appearance of surfaces such as floors, walls, and countertops. It…
Read More
21
Aug
By lizlaurenb
Real Estate

Will Buying A New Car Impact The Ability To Buy A New Home?

Making major life decisions often involves a delicate balancing act. Among the most significant choices individuals face are buying a new car and purchasing a new home. Both ventures represent milestones in one's life, bringing excitement and anticipation. However, there is a complex interplay between these two financial endeavors that can significantly impact a person's ability to achieve their dream of owning a new home.  Here are some factors to consider: Debt-to-income ratio: When you apply for a home loan, your lender will consider your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) to determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Your DTI is the…
Read More
Skip to content