Homeowner Tips Archives - Lori Blank & Associates

09

May

Homeowner Tips

Important Steps to Take After Closing on Your Home

Congratulations! You have closed on your new home! After weeks (or even months) of searching, negotiating, and signing paperwork, you finally have the keys in hand. But before you kick back and start decorating, there are a few essential steps to take to protect your investment and make the transition as smooth as possible. Here’s a checklist of important things to do after closing on your home: Change the Locks and Update SecurityYou never know who might still have a key to your home, previous owners, contractors, or even neighbors. One of the first things you should do is change…

08

May

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Artificial and Real Grass

When it comes to creating the perfect yard, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is choosing between real grass and artificial turf. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals for your outdoor space. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision that suits your home and needs. Real Grass: The Classic ChoicePros:There is nothing quite like the look and feel of a lush, natural lawn. Real grass offers a cooling effect during warmer months, improves air quality, and…

11

Mar

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Millennials and the Pursuit of Homeownership

With rapid technological advancements and shifting societal norms, millennials find themselves facing a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to securing a mortgage. The journey toward homeownership for this generation is a multifaceted one, influenced by factors ranging from soaring student loan debt to evolving housing preferences. The Student Loan Conundrum: One of the primary obstacles that millennials face when considering homeownership is the burden of student loan debt. With the rising cost of education, many find themselves struggling with substantial loan balances, which can impact their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders typically assess debt-to-income…

04

Mar

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Easy Ways To Get More From Your Home Garden

Growing a home garden creates beauty, oxygen and even food for our families to enjoy. If you're looking to get more from your home garden, here are four easy ways to improve a green thumb. A Good Foundation For Your Garden Good soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. By using quality soil, you can give your garden the best start possible. Adding a variety of organic matter to soil will give plants a happy home to grow in. Add two to three inches of organic matter to your garden bed at the beginning of each season. Compost, dried…

27

Feb

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

What You May Not Know About Owner Financing When Buying a Home

Owner financing is an alternative home-buying method that many buyers and sellers overlook. Instead of securing a mortgage through a traditional lender, the buyer makes payments directly to the seller under agreed-upon terms. While this arrangement can be beneficial, there are key details to consider before choosing owner financing. 1. No Traditional Lender Involvement One of the biggest advantages of owner financing is that it bypasses banks and mortgage lenders. This can be helpful for buyers who may not qualify for a traditional loan due to credit history, self-employment income, or other financial factors. Instead, the buyer and seller agree…

21

Feb

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Do I Need Flood Insurance Coverage For My Home?

One of the most important overlooked form of insurance for homeowners is Flood Insurance. Flood damage is not covered on a typical homeowners insurance policy. Although sometimes FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency) provides help for victims of flood damage, it does not provide coverage for personal property, and is often defined as a loan and must be repaid. Flood Insurance for Homeowners: What Does it Cover? Depending on the type of flood insurance you carry, it covers various things. The basic coverage on a flood insurance policy covers the structure of the home, which would also include permanently installed…

19

Feb

By Lori Blank

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…

14

Jan

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Functional Home Offices for the Modern Remote Worker

As remote work becomes a standard part of life, the traditional home office is undergoing a major transformation. What was once a corner desk or spare room has now evolved into a personalized, stylish, and functional space. Homeowners are getting creative, designing offices that not only cater to their work needs but also reflect their unique personalities and styles. Creative Home Office Transformations Some of the most imaginative home offices come from thinking outside the box—literally. For instance: Attic Retreats: Attics, often underutilized, are being converted into cozy workspaces. With sloped ceilings and skylights, these spaces offer a peaceful, secluded…

12

Dec

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

How Single Moms Can Achieve Homeownership with First-Time Homebuyer Grants

Owning a home is an important goal for many people, and as a single mom, it can sometimes feel like a distant dream. But the reality is that homeownership is more achievable than you might think, especially when you know about the financial resources and programs available to you. First-time homebuyer grants, special loan programs, and down payment assistance can help you overcome the financial barriers that might otherwise stand in your way. Here's what single moms should know about these opportunities. Understanding First-Time Homebuyer Grants First-time homebuyer grants are specifically designed to help individuals, especially those with low to…

19

Nov

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

Choosing the Right Surveillance Product for Your Home Security

In today’s world, many homes are left unoccupied for extended periods, whether due to work, travel, or other reasons. Unfortunately, these empty homes can be prime targets for burglars or home invaders. As crime rates rise, homeowners are increasingly turning to security systems and surveillance equipment to protect their property and loved ones. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right surveillance product for your home? Let’s explore some of the most popular types of security cameras and systems to help you make an informed decision. Fake Surveillance Cameras: A Low-Cost Deterrent Fake cameras are exactly…