Category Archives: Home Buyers

Understanding What Counts as Debt When Applying for a Mortgage

A person calculating out her debt-to-income ratio.

When you apply for a mortgage, your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) will play a vital role. The mortgage lenders will review your credit profile and check the DTI ratio to assess your affordability. So, the debt-to-income ratio will indicate how much debt you carry, such as credit card balances, payday loans, medical bills, personal loans, and utility bills against your monthly income.

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Will a Backsplash Add Value to Your Rental Home?

A wet bar surrounded by blue cabinets and decorative tile.

It is no surprise when two houses in the same neighborhood command rent at different prices. While they are often within the same range, one landlord can ask for up to $300 more per month, depending on what upgrades they have installed in their homes. It is one of the reasons real estate experts recommend regular repairs and frequent renovations to maximize your earning potential and stay ahead of the competition. Even seemingly small upgrades can improve your ROI, attracting more tenants and allowing you to charge more for your property. So, how about a backsplash? Will it add any value to your rental home? Let us find out. 

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How to Choose a Property with Ideal Features for Your Emotional Support Animal

A man in his living room with his emotional support animal.

If the time is approaching to find a new home for yourself and your beloved emotional support animal (ESA), you will want to look for a property where you will be safe, comfortable, and happy. It goes without saying that your animal’s needs differ greatly from your own, so it’s vital that you find a home that has the best features for you both.

Not quite sure what to look for? Fear not—we have put together a handy guide to choosing a property with ideal features for your ESA.

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Investing in History: How to Prepare for Buying a Historic Home

A historic home from Savannah, Georgia.

There are few things as charming as a historic home. Their unique charm, character, and rich sense of history make them highly desirable for many homebuyers. While historic homes are undeniably appealing, purchasing one requires thoughtful consideration and preparation. Understanding preservation regulations and anticipating renovation challenges are crucial aspects of navigating the purchase of a historic home, which is where a home inspector comes into play.

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Downsizing Tips for Empty Nesters

Two empty nesters packing up their kitchen so they can downsize homes.

It happens to many families: after a lifetime of kids, a lifetime of memories, and a lifetime’s worth of stuff, you are suddenly faced with a space that feels too large and cluttered. Sure, your house was the perfect place to raise your family, but do you still need a three or four-chair dinner set? How about that clean, empty bedroom you are no longer using? If you suddenly find yourself with more space than you need, downsizing may be a good idea.

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Income-Generating Retirement: How Real Estate Investments Can Secure Your Future

A man stacking coins next to a small house, symbolizing how real estate investments are a great vehicle for generating retirement income.

Facing retirement can bring a mix of feelings and a big question mark about money. When the cash from work stops flowing and the money saved up is not looking as strong as hoped, finding a way to keep the bank account happy becomes key.

Real estate can be a wise choice for those looking to boost their income, especially during retirement. It is not just about trading properties; it is a pathway to a more secure and comfortable life after work. This guide will walk you through the essentials of making clever real estate investments that could significantly benefit your retirement years.

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How to Tackle Landscaping Projects Early to Set Your Home’s Atmosphere

A home with new landscaping near the entrance.

New homeowners are likely eager to make updates to create a more personalized space. Although there is plenty of time for changes, there are a few landscaping projects you will want to start immediately.

Here is why you should consider landscaping in the first year, how to set a budget, and what projects have the best returns on investment (ROI).

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Buy a Home with These Features to Avoid Renovations

A couple searching for a new home with minimal renovations required.

Gravitating toward move-in ready homes when house hunting has numerous merits. These properties are good to go — even though they may need some facelifts to look more presentable. More importantly, these residences are less likely to require costly renovations for a long time.

Moving into a house you do not need to renovate is underrated. Buying and relocating to your new home can be a significant expense — not to mention the time and energy required to close the deal and transfer your belongings to a different address.

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Navigating the Landscape of VA Construction Loans and VA Jumbo Loans

A military family pictured in front of their home.

For military service members and veterans, the dream of homeownership is a powerful aspiration, often accompanied by unique challenges and opportunities. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) plays a crucial role in making this dream a reality through its versatile loan programs. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of two specialized offerings: VA Construction Loans and VA Jumbo Loans. Understanding the nuances of these programs can empower veterans to build or purchase their dream homes with the support they deserve.

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How to Reduce Stress Before, During, and After Moving

A family sitting near unpacked boxes in their home.

Moving into a new house is exciting – and, like most major life events, incredibly stressful. You have to pack, clean, and hire movers, all on a timeline and budget.

According to a survey conducted by OnePoll, 64% of respondents consider their latest relocation one of the most challenging experiences they have ever had.

Moving comes with many different parts: planning, budgeting, and figuring out how to get your precious belongings into your new home. While procrastinating may be tempting, you can take a few simple steps to make your move less stressful.

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