Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing or pursuing a reverse mortgage, you can expect to encounter the home appraisal process along the way. It’s a critical, but often unfamiliar, experience with significant consequences for your goal.  Eliminating the mystery of the factors that determine an appraisal, why it’s required, and how it can impact your transaction […]

In nearly every case, homebuying requires compromise. Even when you fall in love with a house during your hunt, there will likely be some changes or improvements you’ll want to make eventually.  And while your budget is probably the primary factor for deciding when the time is right, certain upgrades make sense to do sooner […]

As homeowners get older, it becomes increasingly more difficult and expensive for them to maintain a larger home. That’s why many retirees and empty nesters are moving into smaller spaces. Downsizing, however, is not for everyone. Consider some of the pros and cons of reducing the size of your living spaces before you start shopping.  […]

Applying for a mortgage is an in-depth process. Along the way, an underwriter will be reviewing your bank statements, tax returns and credit history to evaluate your eligibility for a long-term loan. But, even the most confident borrower can run into unexpected problems if they lack a thorough understanding of the situation.  If a mortgage […]

Studies are showing that droves of Millennials are moving out of cities in favor of neighboring suburbs. This shift has a lot to do with the rising costs of city life. You too might enjoy the move if you’re looking to save money while purchasing a home or if you’re planning to start a family. […]

The real estate market is experiencing historically low mortgage rates. That means you’ll be facing stiff competition for your dream home, because other buyers are going to want it too. Have no fear: you can outfox your competition by adjusting your negotiation approach. Consider what your seller is looking for in an offer and you’ll […]

Mark Twain wrote about traveling abroad in the 1860s. One hundred years later, John Steinbeck wrote about a road trip he took with his dog Charley. Today, the internet is saturated with travel blogs. Americans are fascinated with travel, and it’s easy to understand why: travel is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. […]

The cost, commitment and confusion that can accompany the homebuying process are enough to give anyone pause about making the leap from renter to buyer. But for those who believe owning a home remains a matter of when, not if, now could be the time to reconsider your decision to put it off any longer.  […]

Do you have random household items tucked away in closets or collecting dust on your shelves? Toys, books, clothes, electronics—the stuff you never use that’s just taking up space could find a meaningful new home with someone else.  You can turn unwanted household items into life changing donations and/or cash to pay for essential home […]

First-time homebuyers get a lot of attention, and deservedly so. The path to homeownership is filled with excitement, stress and lots of questions. Advice for navigating such a unique and unfamiliar process is in high demand.  But, does it get easier the second time? Transitioning from a first home to your next home can present […]