How to find the right agent for you! Not all real estate agents are created equally — and even if they were, not all would be a great fit for you and your unique search. If you haven’t used an agent before, or if you did and it was less than pleasant, you might not be…
Energy-efficient upgrades can not only shrink your utility bill; they can increase the value of your home. Homebuyers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of energy-efficient homes. In fact, they’re often willing to pay more for homes with “green” upgrades, says Sandra Adomatis, a specialist in green valuation with Adomatis Appraisal Service in Punta…
It’s the biggest hack to homeownership, and probably the most misunderstood: a home loan preapproval. How do you know when you’re financially set to get preapproved? Here’s what lenders look for and what you need to do if you’re not quite there. What you need for a mortgage preapproval Unlike a mortgage pre-qualification, a preapproval…
Mortgage rates are near all-time lows, and it might be hard to imagine them going even lower. But some loan experts say many banks aren’t giving borrowers the lowest rates they deserve. It’s a matter of how banks price mortgage loans: a complicated mix of making loans that are attractive to potential investors — often…
Without a high credit score, you won’t qualify for the best mortgage rates available, which could mean you’ll end up paying more money over the term of your mortgage. Even with rates at historic lows right now, the difference between 3.5% and 3.75% can add up, especially if you’re applying for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage….
When Courtney St. Gemme-Chandler and her husband bought an older home in Aurora, Colorado, in 2012, they assumed it would need some minor TLC. But their elation at the closing table soon turned to frustration when the house started falling apart — and repair costs began piling up. Right after they moved in, a pipe…
The amount of work and money required to maintain a historic home can vary, depending on the condition it’s in. However, if you go in prepared, this labor of love can be less laborious. Here are six things to keep in mind before you make your home in a little slice of history. 1. Historic…
Ah, fall. The return of all things pumpkin-spiced, cooler weather and the new school year (which this mom is thrilled about). It’s also an opportune time to buy a home and possibly snag a great deal in the process. Buyer demand begins to wane this time of the year, which means motivated home sellers are more likely…
Median home sale prices have risen on a year-over-year basis for 52 consecutive months. In June, they reached yet another all-time high. Sure, from a macro view, we all understand that it’s a matter of supply and demand — not enough homes for sale in the major employment centers. But what about your house, or…
