Even if the temperatures are still mild in your neck of the woods, there is no denying that winter is on its way, and it’s time to winterize your home. According to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), many winter-related disasters can be prevented if people take a few simple steps to protect their home from […]
Nothing turns off prospective homebuyers more than bugs and critters – dead or alive. And when there are visible signs of rodent pellets on the floor, some prospective buyers may even run out of the house screaming. Home sellers need to ensure that bugs and critters don’t turn a potential sale into a lost opportunity, […]
A fire is one of the greatest homeowner fears. Not only could you lose your home and valuables but, more importantly, your family could be at risk! To put your mind at ease, and protect your home from potential fires, follow these simple tips. -Change the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every […]
If you’re at the point of having a home inspection done, Congratulations! You’re that much closer to getting your dream home! But, as with any of the steps to purchasing your home, there are key points to address and understand. The following are items you’ll want addressed before settlement: •Know that the home inspector is […]
A: There are a few things to consider, including cost, individual needs, and what will add value down the road. Also important: your emotional attachment to the existing home. Often, it is more cost effective to put on an addition than it is to build or buy a new home. Key points to consider are: […]
You can find out more about an existing property and neighborhood before you buy than you can a new home in a newly developed community. Things to consider: Ask homeowners already living in a development about the builder. If none currently live there, find out where the builder has previously built and speak to those […]
As the U.S. housing market reports a cautious rebound, genuine clay brick manufacturers continue to invest in progressive technology for sustainable exteriors in more textures and colors at a wider price range. Historically a provider of steady jobs, brick manufacturers continue to increase environmental efficiency with environmentally-friendly plants to offer Made-in-America quality–and endless green building […]
As you drive through your neighborhood, whether it’s Barclay Farms, Alluvium or Short Hills, you’ve probably noticed that the houses resemble each other in some way. There may be a few different model types in the neighborhood. But typically, homes built between 1955-1985, have a “cookie-cutter” look. Mass production during this time period was in […]
September happens to be healthy aging month. No matter where you are chronologically, it’s never too late, nor too early, to take care of yourself. There’s no getting around it. There are no short cuts to getting & maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But, it is worth every effort. The following tips are to help you […]
As reported by Paul Ausick at www.dailyfinance.com and RISMedia, mortgage applications increased 11.1 percent from one week earlier, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey for the week ending September 7, 2012. This week’s results include the customary upward adjustment for the Labor Day holiday. The Market Composite Index, […]
The average cost of a bathroom remodel tops $16,500, according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report. Whether you’re looking to update your bathroom to meet your living style now or you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, revamping your bathroom doesn’t have to cost you an arm & a leg to […]
The cool temperatures that quickly returned to us this week, conjure up those comforting images of brilliantly turning leaves, warm apple cider and toasty fires at the hearth. If you are selling your home this Fall, you’ll want to capture the essence of those images and create a warm & inviting atmosphere for potential buyers […]
Remodeling your home, whether to update for resale or just to improve your quality of living, can be amazing and fun. But picture yourself halfway through your kitchen remodel, only to realize the money you budgeted isn’t enough to cover completing the project or unexpected issues that arose. This is a perfect example of why […]
September is National Preparedness Month and we’re now in hurricane season feeling the residual rainbands of Hurricane Isaac. Keeping emergency & survival kits at the ready is a good idea in the event of a natural disaster. But, also have a plan for your important documents. While keeping you & your family safe is the […]
Mortgage rates continued to climb this week, with the average rate on the benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rising for the third consecutive week, to 3.86 percent according to Bankrate.com’s weekly national survey. The average 30-yearfixed mortgage has an average of 0.42 discount and origination points. But, let’s keep these numbers in perspective. These rates are […]
While vacationing on a secluded island for peace and relaxation would be a wonderful retreat, you can remove some of the hustle and bustle of your daily routine by creating peaceful escapes throughout your own home. The bathroom, for example, is the only place where you can shut the door and have complete “you time” […]
According to the U.S. Economic and Housing Market Outlook for August released recently from Freddie Mac, the so-called shadow inventory might not be as foreboding as many thought. This is largely attributed to the rate at which excess housing is being absorbed. Other highlights from the Outlook include: •The Freddie Mac House Price Index for […]
A recent analysis of government data by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that the geographic distribution of households headed by someone age 55 or older is fairly even across most of the country, with more than 30 percent of all households in every state meeting this description. The study sheds valuable light […]
It can be tempting to buy or sell a home on your own. More and more, consumers are gathering information from the internet and feel confident that they have all the information they need to get through the transaction. However, the vast majority of real estate consumers eventually come to realize the many benefits of […]
Whether you’re looking to set up anursery or update your Tween’s bedroom, painting is an easy and cost-effectiveway to create just the right atmosphere. Knowing where & how to start can getoverwhelming. Take your time and think of the following tips to help you choosethe best type and color of paint, while easing the stress. […]
In today’s fast-paced world, many families are looking for ways to slow down and spend some quality time together, just having fun. The good news is that, even in today’s questionable economy, it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, and you don’t have to go very far to have a great time. Here […]
With so many great homes on the market and historically-low interest rates still intact, Buyers can find their dream home at record-breaking values. It takes a little homework and preparation to get that home at the best price possible. But, with help, Buyers’ dreams can come true. To help buy a home at the best […]
Nothing ruins a new outfit or clean carpet faster than a stain. But between eating on the fly, entertaining friends and taking care of the family, spills happen! “It’s no accident that July honors one of our most fun but also messiest foods,” Bob Kearn, president and CEO of COIT, said, noting that July is […]
There are many reasons to consider downsizing your living space. Maybe you just want less house to maintain and less “junk” to look after. Perhaps your nest is empty and you just don’t need all that space. Or you may be looking for a change of venue; moving to a more urban setting will likely […]
Many of you have your Summer vacations all lined up and are preparing to leave your home in the coming weeks. Summer vacations may be fun, but they can be costly if you fail to prepare your home and property adequately. Burglars see vacations as an opportunity to target empty homes, according to the Insurance […]
When considering bathroom renovation, whether you choose to do an extensive remodel or a smaller project, most kitchen and bath designers agree on these tips: Take size into account. A sleek, stylish glass shower enclosure helps your bathroom appear more spacious, and in most instances, a frameless shower enclosure will provide the cleanest, most open […]
A small kitchen can quickly become cluttered and feel cramped. According to Consumer Reports, a few small upgrades can make a big improvement. To maximize the space you have, rethink where you store things, especially if counter space is at a premium. Here are five additional ways to make every available inch count: Place your […]
Do-it-yourself home improvement can be a great way to add value to your home without having to pay builders or plumbers to do the work. But even the simplest of DIY jobs can quickly turn into an expensive mess when tackled incorrectly. Here’s a look at some of the most costly DIY mistakes to avoid […]
Freddie Mac recently released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®), showing average mortgage rates easing amid worsening economic indicators. Both the 30-year fixed and the 5-year ARM registered new average record lows. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 3.66 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending June 21, 2012, […]
A first time homeowner can find buying a new home exciting and overwhelming. When shopping for quotes, there are five areas that are especially important. Here are tips to get the best coverage at the most affordable price. 1. Know the difference between the replacement cost and the market value. Depending on how much was […]