Moving into your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. The key is to tackle things step by step, knowing what deserves immediate attention and what’s better left until you’ve lived in the space a bit. Here’s a simple roadmap for getting started: Do These First 1. Start with a Deep Clean…
For many people, owning a home has long been a symbol of success, stability, and independence. But what exactly makes homeownership so valuable? Is it just about building equity—or is there something deeper? The truth is, the value of homeownership goes far beyond the numbers on paper. From financial gains to emotional rewards, owning your own…
Buying and owning your home can make a big difference in your life by bringing you joy and a sense of belonging. And with National Homeownership Month just passed us, it’s the perfect time to think about all the benefits homeownership provides. Of course, there are financial reasons to buy a house, but it’s important…
Let’s say you have your heart set on buying a home in a community with a swimming pool, a clubhouse, and maybe even a playground or trails. Having access to these amenities often means living in a community with a homeowners association, or HOA. Generally, an HOA is responsible for keeping the neighborhood looking beautiful…
Some of them have been around since you were a child. Some you may have found in college. Some may even be in your neighborhood or at work. No, we’re not talking about your sweater collection—though sweater season is in full swing. We’re talking about your friends. You know, the people who you rely on,…
When it comes to where mortgages are concerned, “escrow” and “escrow accounts” refer to two slightly different concepts. Escrow is the process by which a neutral third party mediates a real estate deal, holding money and property “in escrow” until the two sides agree that all the conditions are met for a sale to close. By contrast,…
From searching for homes to picking up your new keys on closing day, buying a home is an exciting process. Many first-time homebuyers also have the benefit of receiving advice from family members or friends who’ve already gone through the process. While it is certainly good to hear a few different perspectives while you’re buying…
Pandemic-related mortgage bailouts are ending, and foreclosures are now rising. Foreclosure stats jumped 32% in the third quarter of this year from the second quarter and were 67% higher than the third quarter of 2020. With foreclosures flooding the market, it’s “standing room only” at real estate auction sales these days. Those properties are selling…
Final walkthroughs are not the same as home inspections – this is not the time for negotiations with the seller to do repairs or add contingencies. The purpose of a final walkthrough is to make sure the property you are purchasing is in the condition in which you agreed to buy it. It is a…
Newlyweds are saying “I do” to each other, and they equate to over half of first-time home buyers that are also saying “I do” to their dream homes. It makes sense! When you put two hearts together, the time comes to find a home to nourish that love. A home that brings two of your…