Homeownership Archives - Lori Blank & Associates

12

Dec

Homeowner Tips

Should You Upsize or Stay Put and Renovate

As life changes, your home needs can change as well. Growing families, new hobbies, remote work, or lifestyle shifts often create the question many homeowners eventually face. Should you move into a larger home, or should you stay where you are and renovate? The answer is not always simple, and the right choice depends on your finances, your long-term goals, and how well your current home can adapt. As real estate professionals, we help homeowners evaluate these choices so they can move forward confidently. Consider How Much Space You Truly NeedBefore deciding to upsize, take a close look at what…

04

Dec

By Lori Blank

Homeowner Tips

How to Appeal Property Taxes on Your Home

Many homeowners are surprised when they receive their annual property tax bill and notice an increase that feels higher than expected. The good news is that you have the right to appeal your property tax assessment if you believe it does not reflect the true value of your home. Understanding the process can help you protect your budget and ensure that you are being taxed fairly. Know What Your Assessment MeansYour property tax bill is based on the value assigned to your home by your local tax authority. This value may not match the current market value. It is an…

11

Nov

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Honoring Veterans Day, and the Gift of Home

Today, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage, strength, and selflessness. Your service allows us to enjoy the freedoms that make home and community possible. As a real estate professional, I am especially grateful for the role homeownership plays in the lives of veterans and their families. Owning a home is more than just having a place to live, it represents stability, pride, and belonging. The VA home loan program makes this dream more attainable, offering incredible benefits that honor those who have given so much. To every veteran, and to every family…

26

Aug

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Why Some Homeowners Move Often While Others Stay Forever

A forever home is often imagined as the place you will live for decades. It is where families grow, memories are created, and life milestones are celebrated. For some people, this vision becomes reality. For others, the thought of staying in one place for life feels restrictive. Instead, they move every five to seven years, searching for new opportunities and experiences. So why do some homeowners stay forever while others are constantly on the move? Personality Shapes Housing ChoicesPersonality plays a major role in how we view our homes. Some people value stability, routine, and deep community connections. For them,…

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…

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…

23

Jan

By Lori Blank

Real Estate Tips

Making the Right Decision for Your Lifestyle and Finances

Deciding whether to rent or buy a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. Both options come with their own set of advantages and challenges, so it’s essential to weigh them carefully. Your choice will depend on various factors, including your lifestyle, long-term goals, and financial situation. 1. Your Lifestyle and Flexibility When it comes to lifestyle, renting typically offers more flexibility. Renters often have the ability to move more easily, whether for work, school, or personal reasons. If you enjoy flexibility and may not want to commit to a single location for the long…

05

Dec

By Lori Blank

Taxes

Tax Benefits and Deductions for Homeowners

Owning a home isn’t just a significant milestone—it can also bring a variety of financial perks, especially when it comes to taxes. Many homeowners are eligible for tax deductions and credits that can make a big difference when filing their taxes. These benefits can help reduce your taxable income, saving you money. Here’s a breakdown of the tax advantages that come with homeownership. 1. Mortgage Interest Deduction One of the most significant tax benefits of homeownership is the mortgage interest deduction. Homeowners can deduct the interest paid on their mortgage for their primary residence (and sometimes a second home) from…

01

Aug

By Lori Blank

Homebuyer Tips

Strategies to Make Homeownership Accessible for All

In today's real estate market, the dream of owning a home can seem out of reach for many. However, various affordable housing initiatives are making homeownership more accessible. As a real estate agent, I want to share some strategies and programs designed to help you achieve your dream of owning a home. Understanding Affordable Housing Firstly, it's important to understand what affordable housing means. Affordable housing refers to housing units that are affordable to individuals or families with low to moderate incomes. This is often determined by the percentage of income spent on housing costs. Ideally, housing costs should not…

31

Jul

By Lori Blank

Home Buyer Tips

How to Transition from Renting to Homeownership

Transitioning from renting to homeownership is an exciting and significant milestone in anyone's life. This journey, while thrilling, can also be filled with questions and uncertainties. As your trusted real estate agent, I am here to guide you through this process, ensuring a smooth and successful transition. We will discuss the steps you need to take to move from being a renter to a proud homeowner. Assess Your Financial Readiness First and foremost, evaluate your financial situation. Owning a home involves more than just a monthly mortgage payment. You'll need to consider property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance costs, and potential…