Dear Karen, You mentioned something about interest rates going up recently. What does this mean for me as I’m looking ahead to either refinancing or possibly making a move in the upcoming year? Sincerely, Interested in Interest Rates...
The holidays are a happy time for celebrating with family, friends, and co-workers. Unfortunately, this time of year can also be turned sour by a wide variety of clever frauds, unauthorized debit and credit card transactions, and bogus pers...
Our world is full of risk at every turn—from perilous jobs to dangerous driving conditions. That’s why we all love to get back to our homes and not worry about everyday safety hazards. It’s great to feel comfortable and safe at ho...
The ‘smart home’ is the new ‘internet of things’, or objects that can serve you better by communicating with each other or directly with you through apps on your smart phone. In the ideal version of the wired future, all of our applianc...
Save Money on Your Next Purchase Buying a home isn’t like buying a toaster. If you discover something’s wrong with your new home, you can’t return it for a refund or an even exchange. Purchasing a home is an important investment an...
The complete guide to choosing between new or lived-in homes Maybe your dream home is older, with intricate details like wainscoting, crown molding, and a front porch with a swing. Or maybe it’s modern, with an open floor living room p...
How strong is your credit? Cleaning up your credit is essential before you make any major financial moves. Having a bad score can hurt your chances of being able to open a credit card, apply for a loan, purchase a car, or rent an apartm...
Thinking about buying a home? Since it’s likely the single biggest investment you will ever make, being prepared will help you make a smarter purchase decision. Don’t make an offer until you read and understand these real estate...
Existing-Home Sales and Prices Climb As we head into the busy spring home-selling season, home buyers will be happy to know that mortgage rates are back on the decline. The same can’t be said of home prices, though, which continue to rise....
How Weather and the Time of Year Affect Housing! Weather and the time of year have a big impact housing activity, and in every housing market there are times of the year when fewer homes sell. For most, that time of year coincides with t...
Decrease Your Tax Burden You can’t avoid paying taxes, and we all need to pay our fair share. However, paying your fair share shouldn’t place an unjust burden on you. As a homeowner, your tax burden is doubled because you pay both inco...
