Category: Insights
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What Is Going on with Mortgage Rates?
You may have heard mortgage rates are going to stay a bit higher for longer than originally expected. And if you are wondering why, the answer lies in the latest economic data. Here’s a quick overview of what’s happening with mortgage rates and what experts say is ahead. Economic Factors That Impact Mortgage Rates When…
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Tips for Younger Homebuyers
How To Make Your Dream a Reality If you are a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question will I ever be able to buy a home? And chances are, you’re worried that’s not going to be in the cards with inflation, rising home prices, mortgage rates, and…
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Perks of Buying over Renting
Thinking about buying a home? While today’s mortgage rates might seem a bit intimidating, here are two solid reasons why. If you are ready and able, it could still be a smart move to get your own place. 1. Home values typically go up over time There’s been some confusion over the past year or…
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One Walk-in Shower Is as Good as Any Other, Right? Wrong.
Here’s how to make your morning shower more luxurious. A utilitarian walk-in shower works just as well as something nicer, so why spend the time and effort – and the money – to upgrade it? Designers Create Walk-in Showers A shower and stand-alone tub can sit side by side in a wet room, like this…
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What to Know About Credit Scores Before Buying a Home
Know Your Credit Score If you want to buy a home, you should know your credit score is a critical piece of the puzzle to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders review your credit to see if you typically make payments on time, pay back debts, and more. Your credit score can also help determine your…
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What You Really Need to Know About Home Prices
According to recent data from Fannie Mae, almost 1 in 4 people still think home prices are going to come down. If you are one of the people worried about that, here’s what you need to know. A lot of that fear is probably coming from what you’re hearing in the media or reading online.…
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How to Keep Squirrels Out of Potted Plants
From a Barrier or Soil Protection to a Spicy Alternative Gardeners know that squirrels can pose a threat to nearly any potted plant. Here are all the ways to protect your plants this spring and summer. Build a Barrier Make a “cage” from bird netting, chicken wire, or using a pre-made potted plant guard that…
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Builders Are Building Smaller Homes
There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight. And if you are trying to buy a home, that may mean you need to look at smaller houses to find one that’s still in your budget. But there is a silver lining, builders are focucsed on building these smaller homes right now and they are offering…
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Perks of Downsizing When You Retire
If you are about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try to cut down on some of your expenses. For Buyers: Smaller homes typically have lower energy and maintenance costs. Plus, you may have enough equity built up to fuel your move. For Sellers: If you are thinking about…