How to Avoid Common Mortgage Pitfalls

A man experiencing stress as a result of some common mortgage pitfalls.

Navigating the mortgage process can be challenging, whether you are buying your first home, refinancing, or planning to sell. Missteps along the way can lead to long-term financial stress or — in the worst-case scenario — pre-foreclosure. Explore the common mortgage pitfalls and learn how to avoid them, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience.

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The Future of Sustainable Materials in Real Estate

Written by: Edrian Blasquino

Sustainable materials that are being used in real estate: bamboo, clay, precast concrete, and recycled plastic.

The real estate market grows more complicated as realtors and buyers learn more about housing costs. While there are obvious costs associated with buying a house, such as mortgages, renovations, and other costly paperwork, there is another aspect of home ownership slowly gaining ground in the real estate market. Sustainable housing has become a hot topic in industry- and with good reason.

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Installing and Maintaining a Home Irrigation System

A drip system in a garden bed- an example of a home irrigation system.

When summer arrives, our gardens and lawns become our pride and joy, vibrant spaces where we can relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of nature. But keeping these green spaces lush and healthy during the hot months can be challenging. That is where an irrigation system comes into play. An efficient irrigation system conserves water and saves time and effort. Here is a brief guide to help you install and maintain a home irrigation system.

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Building a Realistic Budget for Successful Home Flips

An open concept kitchen and dining room pre home-flip on the right, and completed on the left.

You are not alone if you like the idea of flipping houses for a profit. Many people have chosen to enter the home-flipping world, often inspired by numerous HGTV shows. However, they typically find the business more challenging than expected, particularly when creating a budget.

Budgeting is among the most critical parts of a home flip. Without adequate finances to back your project, you could end up with a prolonged timeline or go bankrupt. Here are the most important considerations for a home-flipping budget, how to estimate a realistic cost, and ways to stay on track with spending.

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Heat-Resistant Plants for a Thriving Summer Garden

A woman watering her summer garden.

Gardening during the summer has its challenges, especially when everything seems to wilt under the blazing sun. But there are some plants that positively thrive in elevated temperatures and choosing these varieties will ensure your garden remains vibrant throughout the season. The wonderful thing about many of these hardy species is their good looks as well as their robustness. They can cope with scorching days and produce beautiful blooms no matter how hot it gets. So, if you want an outdoor space which looks just as good when the mercury hits 32°C as it does at a more temperate 20°C, why not give some of the following a try?

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The Hidden Costs of Homeownership: Maintenance, Taxes, and More

A house and a calculator as a symbol of the costs of homeownership.

Homeownership comes with more responsibility than living with your parents or renting from a landlord. However, most Americans look forward to buying their own home, one of the largest single purchases that they make in their lives.

In terms of financial responsibilities, many soon-to-be homeowners primarily focus on saving up for a down payment and monthly mortgage payments. Among the most overlooked financial considerations, particularly among first-time home buyers, are hidden costs.

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Unexpected Color Combos to Transform Your Home

A green and yellow couch in front of a gray wall with mirrors, an unexpected color combination.

Choosing paint colors for your home can be overwhelming. With assorted options available, it is easy to rely on safe, neutral choices. But what if you decided to take a chance on something different? Using unexpected color combinations can give your spaces an entirely fresh look, adding personality and flair. Let us consider some exciting and transformative color pairings for your next home face-lift.

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Transform Your Kids’ Closets: Genius Back-to-School Organization Tips

A little girl looking at her closet as back-to-school time is around the corner.

As summer fades and the school year looms, one of the biggest challenges parents face is getting their kids’ closets ready for the whirlwind of back-to-school activities. From finding the right outfit in the morning to keeping track of sports gear and school supplies, a well-organized closet can make a world of difference. Here are some genius tips to transform your kids’ closets, making school mornings a breeze.

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The Energized Team: Business Expands into Geneva

The Energized Team of Realty Executives Premiere in Illinois.
The Energized Team of Realty Executives Premiere in Illinois.

June 1, 2024, was a momentous day for The Energized Team of Realty Executives Premiere. New office doors proudly opened on the corner of 3rd Street and Campbell in Geneva, Illinois- a symbol of the team’s expansion plan coming to fruition.

“Our team had significant success in expanding business into the Fox Valley area, frequently earning listings in Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles, and surrounding areas,” said Becky VanderVeen, Team Lead and Owner of The Energized Team, Inc. “Having a physical presence in the community was our natural next step and will allow us to further develop our market expertise and best serve our clientele.”

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The Art of Lifestyle Photography in Luxury Real Estate: Telling a Home’s Story

A luxury automobile in front of a large home- an example of lifestyle photography in luxury real estate.

Lifestyle photography is, by nature, aspirational. It shows people the kind of life they could aspire to live if only they reach out and grab it.

When it comes to luxury real estate, that aspirational factor is essential for building a narrative compelling enough for people to act. With its unique focus on ambiance, aesthetics, and experiential potential, lifestyle photography plays a powerful role in selling luxury properties.

With the right lifestyle photography strategy, you can craft an emotionally compelling visual narrative that highlights what life in luxury real estate can look like.

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