Are HOA Fees Necessary?
Let’s be real—no one loves paying HOA fees 💸. But when managed well, these monthly dues can add real value to your home and neighborhood.
🏘️ What Do They Cover? Think landscaping, exterio...
Finances
Interest Rate vs. APR: What’s the Difference?
The interest rate is what you pay to borrow money. The APR (Annual Percentage Rate) includes that plus other costs like points, fees, and closing costs. APR is the more accurate picture of what a loan will truly cost you 📊. Don’t just shop...
FHA Loans Explained
FHA loans are a great option for first-time buyers or anyone with less-than-perfect credit. They offer lower down payment requirements (as low as 3.5%!), more flexible credit guidelines, and can be a stepping stone to homeownership. But they al...
Things to Look for When Obtaining a Moving Quote
Not all movers are created equal! When getting quotes, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Look for binding estimates, ask what’s included (boxes? mileage? insurance?), and always check reviews and licenses. If a quote is way lower...
Ideas to Save on Home Insurance
Home insurance is essential—but overpaying isn’t. Start by comparing quotes from multiple carriers 🧐. Increase your deductible if you have enough savings for emergencies. Bundle policies, install security systems, and ask about discounts...
Why You Should “Date the Rate and Marry the House”
If you’ve been house hunting lately, you’ve probably heard the phrase "date the rate, marry the house." But what does it actually mean?
It Means: Buy the Right Home—Worry About Interest Rates Later
🏡 The house is the long-term inve...
Should I Buy a Home if Inflation is Rising?
Inflation is up, interest rates are climbing, and now you’re wondering—should I just wait?
Here’s the thing: waiting could actually cost you more.
Why Buying Now Still Makes Sense
💸 Rent is Also Rising – While home prices fluctu...
What Is a Credit Rescore? (And How It Can Help You Buy a Home Faster!)
If your credit score is just a few points shy of qualifying for a better mortgage rate, a credit rescore could be your secret weapon.
What Is a Credit Rescore?
A credit rescore is a rapid update to your credit report that reflects recent ch...
The Benefits of Owning a Second Home
As the world emerges from the pandemic era and begins to look for a new normal, we’ve all changed the way we look at homeownership and lifestyle. More and more, families are forgoing exotic vacations and using the savings to enhance their hom...
Should I Use My 401k to Buy a Home?
Buying a home can be a financial stretch. With soaring home values and rising interest rates, many potential first time home buyers find saving for a down payment increasingly difficult. For many people, the main source of savings is in the for...
Property Liens That Can Stop The Sale
One of the most common reasons for a home sale to fall through is the presence of property liens. Often the sellers are not even aware they have a lien on their home and the delay caused by having them removed can cause a qualified buyer to loo...