Blog
Dec
17,
2020
17,
2020
Purchasing a fixer-upper can be an exciting adventure—then again, buying a move-in ready home can be faster and easier on many new homeowners. In this video, Open Mortgage CEO and founder Scott Gordon offers tips to help make the decision easier. Some topics he covers: Rising construction costs and why an older home may offer […]
Dec
8,
2020
8,
2020
It’s that time of year when everyone’s favorite red-suited gift-giver starts making plans for his Christmas Eve visit. Make sure your home is in tip-top shape this December with a maintenance checklist that keeps you off the naughty list. Start at the Top If Santa’s visit to your home will be via a chimney, he’ll […]
Sep
3,
2020
3,
2020
In homes across the country, going back to school this fall will rely on virtual learning, at least for a while. It’s not an ideal scenario for most families, but embracing a proactive approach can ease some concerns. Before this unusual school year gets underway, spend some time creating spaces in your home that eliminate […]
Sep
1,
2020
1,
2020
Longtime homeowners may be content with their home just the way it is, but home equity shouldn’t be overlooked as retirement nears. The ability to utilize tools such as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can be a valuable resource to support and maintain retirement plans. While […]
Jul
9,
2020
9,
2020
Preparations for retirement often focus primarily on savings accounts, investment portfolios and pension plans. However, one of the overlooked pieces in the planning puzzle is the retiree’s home. In addition to being a significant element of many homeowners’ wealth, and a potential source of funds via a reverse mortgage, the ability to fulfill its primary […]
Jul
7,
2020
7,
2020
The summer months are the perfect time to make sure your home offers a trouble-free respite from the heat. Thanks to the continued emphasis on avoiding crowds and the added safety of being outdoors, more homeowners are looking for ways to increase the comfort of their properties, inside and out. The bright skies and warm […]
Jun
25,
2020
25,
2020
Kitchens, master bedrooms, and outdoor spaces tend to get most of the attention from home buyers, but the biggest areas aren’t always the most important when it comes to finding the right layout. Sometimes it’s the smaller, often overlooked, parts of a home that can have the most impact on functionality. Before you make an […]
Jun
2,
2020
2,
2020
Social distancing has made it difficult to work, exercise, even connect with friends and family. One thing it hasn’t affected: DIY home improvement projects. If you have the motivation, these simple fixes can save you money and the aggravation of avoidable major home repairs. Stay Cool Sealing drafty windows and doors is simple and could […]
Mar
24,
2020
24,
2020
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 […]
Feb
20,
2020
20,
2020
The older your house gets, the more likely it’ll need a refresh— but what if it’s located within a historic district or a homeowners association community? You might need permission to build that new porch or to even repaint your home’s exterior. Before you sign the dotted line, consider whether either living situation is right […]
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