Category Archives: Homeowners

Top Fall Neighborhood Events That Add Value to Your Property

A local park cleanup is a top fall neighborhood event.

Fall is a great time for local events that help you connect with your neighbors and increase your home’s value. By joining area gatherings and activities, you make your home more attractive, build better relationships and camaraderie with your neighbors, and create a sense of belonging. Here are some fun fall events to consider that could enhance your property’s value and add charm to your neighborhood.

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Should You Sell Your House and Buy Another One, or Stay and Renovate the Current One?

A woman thinking about whether she should sell her home or renovate it.

Does it make more sense to sell your current home to buy a new one, or to simply stay and renovate it?

Investing in real estate, whether by improving your current property or buying a new one, is usually a smart move. However, one of these options may be better for you, depending on your situation.

In this article, we will explore significant factors to consider as you make your choice. Let us get started!

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Chimney Safety 101: Your Essential Homeowner’s Guide

A chimney and a basket of wood in front of it.

If you have a fireplace, there are key facts that you should know about chimney care and safety. Factors like the type of wood to burn, annual maintenance, and chimney caps are essential to safety and proper care. This comprehensive guide will give you the tips that you need.

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Triple Net Office Lease Agreements Explained: A Guide for Commercial Tenants

A property manager and tenant shaking hands in a vacant commercial space.

As you consider leasing commercial office space, you will likely encounter the term “triple net lease” or “NNN.” This type of agreement can markedly impact your business’s bottom line and operational responsibilities. While it may offer lower base rents, the additional costs and management duties can be substantial. Before you sign on the dotted line, it is essential to understand the intricacies of NNN leases, their potential benefits, and hidden pitfalls. Are you prepared to take on the role of property manager along with your business operations? The answer may not be as straightforward as you think.

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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 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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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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Understanding How to Take on a Renovation as a Young Homeowner

A young couple hanging up a light as they are renovating a room in their home.

If you have watched home improvement shows like “Fixer Upper” or “Property Brothers,” you are probably very excited to renovate your home. On TV, home renovations look fast, fun, and exciting. However, working through a renovation as a young homeowner comes with a unique set of challenges.

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7 Summer Home Maintenance Tips

Hands in the air with various tools used for home and construction projects.

Summer is a beautiful season to enjoy long days, warm weather, and outdoor activities. However, it is also an ideal time to tackle some essential home maintenance tasks. Proper summer home maintenance enhances your home’s appearance and ensures everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Here are seven summer home maintenance tips to keep your home in shape.

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The Art of Lighting and How to Elevate Your Outdoor Space

Landscape lighting strategically placed near shrubbery.

As summer arrives, it is time to elevate your outdoor space. You can enhance your comfort, enjoyment, and functionality on your deck, patio, or porch with updated lighting.

Lighting is an essential tool and one of the most important aspects of elevating outdoor spaces and achieving design goals. With the evolution of LEDs and advancements in fixture designs, exterior lighting can be taken to exciting new heights! Here are six tips and techniques to elevate your outdoor space with lighting.

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