When time comes to tour houses, you may feel like you’re on an HGTV show. You have your wish list, your budget, and you’re on the search for the perfect home. You may not have Chip and Joanna Gaines showing you around, but the idea is still similar to your favorite home shows. Shows like
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To the well-ordered mind, growing older is not a disadvantage, but rather, an opportunity—an opportunity for change and for growth, and especially, an opportunity to live the life that you’ve always wanted. With an empty nest and retirement in hand, it’s a good time to just be, as well as time to move towards the
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When buying a home, whether it’s your first, second, or third, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the process. You may have to deal with negotiations regarding which repairs a seller is responsible for, how issues should be dealt with, or how much credit you’re owed. Here are some ways you can be prepared before
Read moreHow long does a roof last? That has a lot to do with the roofing material you choose to cover your home or business. Other factors that affect roof longevity include your particular weather and climate, your building’s design and construction, and the regularity of roof maintenance performed. If you’re considering a roof installation or
Read moreEver wonder how people around the world live? Or more specifically, what kinds of homes people around the world live in? Well, wonder no more! Here’s a survey of some of the more interesting and unique home styles from around the globe: EUROPE The wooden chalet has been a popular style in Europe’s alpine regions
Read moreThe different cultures and ethnic groups in Hawaii celebrate Christmas in their own unique way. Even santa Claus himself is not wearing his usually red and white suit, instead he has chosen flowery Hawaiian clothes. Spread the spirit of the season to your family and friends by sending a warm greeting from this distinctive island.
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Hawaii enjoys warm tropical weather all year round but yes there’s snow too! Snow in Hawaii falls on the very summit of the 3 tallest volcanoes in the state (Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and Haleakala). The picture below shows Washingtonia palm trees standing tall at Waikoloa Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii with the
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If you think you can’t afford to buy a home, you may be surprised to learn otherwise. In 38 states, buying is actually cheaper than renting. However, buying a home comes with many costs not typically included with renting, like repairs and closing costs. So how do you know if you’re ready to make the investment? There
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Every three years, the Federal Reserve conducts their Survey of Consumer Finances in which they collect data across all economic and social groups. Their latest survey data covers responses from 2013-2016. The study revealed that the median net worth of a homeowner was $231,400 – a 15% increase since 2013. At the same time, the median net worth of
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Here are four great reasons to consider buying a home today instead of waiting. 1. Prices Will Continue to Rise The same report predicts that prices will continue to increase at a rate of 4.7% over the next year. The bottom in home prices has come and gone. Home values will continue to appreciate for
Read moreSome Highlights: The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) recently released their latest Quarterly Home Price Index report. In the report, home prices are compared both regionally and by state. Please follow and like us:
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Home sales numbers are leveling off, the rate of price appreciation has slowed to more historically normal averages, and inventory is finally increasing. We are headed into a more normal housing market. However, some are seeing these adjustments as red flags and are suggesting that we are headed back to the same challenges we experienced
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In real estate, the spring is often seen as the ideal time to buy or sell a house. The term “Spring Buyer’s Season” exists for a reason, as renters and those looking to move on from their current home thaw out from the winter and hit the market ready to buy. According to Bank of America’s annual Home Buyer Insights
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Many sellers believe that spring is the best time to place their homes on the market because buyer demand traditionally increases at that time of year, but what they don’t realize is that if every homeowner believes the same thing, then that is when they will have the most competition! The #1 Reason to List
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Many homebuyers think that saving for their down payment is enough to buy the house of their dreams, but what about the closing costs that are required to obtain a mortgage? By law, a homebuyer will receive a loan estimate from their lender 3 days after submitting their loan application and they should receive a closing disclosure 3 days
Read moreSome Highlights: The inventory of existing homes is still below the 6-month supply needed for a normal market and is now at a 4.3-month supply. NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, had this to say: “After six consecutive months of decline, buyers are finally stepping back into the housing market. As more inventory enters the market and we
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Everyone wants a place to call home; a place that gives them a sense of security. We are currently seeing major interest from females who want to achieve this dream, and the numbers are proving it! In 2017, 60% of millennial women listed as the primary borrowers on mortgages were single. According to the 2018 Home Buyer and
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Every year at this time there are many homeowners who decide to wait until after the holidays to list their homes for the first time, while others who already have their homes on the market decide to take them off until after the holidays. Here are seven great reasons not to wait: Relocation buyers are
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CoreLogic’s Chief Economist Frank Nothaft gave some insight into this change, “The rise in mortgage rates this summer to their highest level in seven years has made it more difficult for potential buyers to afford a home. The slackening in demand is reflected in the slowing of national appreciation, as illustrated in the CoreLogic Home Price
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Owning a home has great financial benefits, yet many continue to rent! Today, let’s look at the financial reasons why owning a home of your own has been a part of the American Dream for the entirety of America’s existence. Realtor.com reported that: “Buying remains the more attractive option in the long term – that remains the
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