Interest rates can go up or down on a daily basis. If you’re planning to buy a home or refinance your mortgage, locking or floating the interest rate may help you save money over the term of the loan. Rate LockLocking an interest rate can protect you from market fluctuations. If you choose a rate […]

Buying your first home is an exciting transition, but a home will be one of the largest financial investments you will make. Making sure that you are as prepared as possible is key. Saving for your home may feel like a big undertaking, but there are a few tricks you can use to make it […]

According to a recent report from Zillow, home builders are predicting that there will be a move away from open floor plans as homeowners seek out increased privacy, as well as an increased demand for more space. Growing in popularity for decades, open floor plans have also been touted by popular home-design programs in recent […]

If, like many Americans, you find your money runs out before the month does, it may be because you don’t keep track of your spending. Budgeting helps, financial advisors assure us, but budget or no budget, there are ways to rein in your spending that may be less painful than you think: Plan meals ahead […]

Moving vans are criss-crossing the nation in great numbers these days, as consumers take advantage of historically low mortgage rates to upgrade their living space and grab their piece of the American Dream. The New York Times reported recently that moving companies are so busy, they are turning people away, and in most areas of […]

Though it is common to stage a home for in-person showings and listing pictures, there may be a house you visit or view that has some unique, even borderline odd features from the current residents. Agents will always suggest that homeowners looking to sell should clean and declutter their homes, however, this is not required. […]

You have an old home to sell or buy? Perhaps you’re moving, upgrading, downgrading or selling off property. Either way, you want to attract the most buyers to ensure you get a quick sale. Here are four things you should work on before listing an older home:  Old or Leaky RoofsYou can replace old shingles, […]

A large percentage of recent college graduates have student loan debt, often totaling tens of thousands of dollars. While having significant balances might make it harder to become a homeowner, you may still be able to qualify for a mortgage. Factors That are Important to LendersA lender will look at your overall financial picture to […]

Many people love the idea of relaxing in front of a fireplace on a cold winter night. The sight, smell and sound of a fire can create a relaxing ambience. While the idea of having a home with a fireplace may be appealing, the reality does not always live up to people’s expectations. The amount […]

One challenge that many luxury homeowners are facing when it’s time to put their property on the market is that there’s simply too much house. As tastes and preferences have changed over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift to smaller living spaces among affluent buyers. While you probably won’t be demolishing a […]