Home improvement trends embrace energy efficiency, low maintenance exteriors, and double-duty space. Trend #1: Maintenance-free siding We continue to choose maintenance-free siding that lives as long as we do, but with a lot less upkeep. But more and more we’re opting for fiber-cement siding, one of the fastest-growing segments of the siding market. It’s a combination…
Take steps immediately to reduce radon gas buildup if your home tests high. Knowing the available radon mitigation methods and costs will help you make the best choice. Reducing radon: Simple strategies If radon test results indicate that levels in your home are only slightly elevated–less than 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air): Caulk…
When you buy a fixer-upper house, you can save a ton of money, or get yourself in a financial fix. Trying to decide whether to buy a fixer-upper house? Follow these seven steps, and you’ll know how much you can afford, how much to offer, and whether a fixer-upper house is right for you. 1….
A home purchase isn’t complete until you make it to the closing. Until then, the transaction can fall apart for many reasons. Here are five tips for avoiding mistakes that cause a home sale to crater. 1. Be truthful on your mortgage application You may think fudging your income a little or omitting debts when…
You’ve already cleared several hurdles by finding the right home, negotiating the best price, and securing favorable financing. The last obstacle on your homebuying track is the closing, which can be both tedious and tense. By knowing what to expect and doing some legwork, you can put your closing behind you. These seven steps will…
It’s easier to settle happily into your new home if you’re confident you can afford it. That requires that you understand your mortgage financing options and choose the loan that best suits your income and ability to tolerate risk. The basics of mortgage financing The most important features of your mortgage loan are its term…
Buying a home can be emotional, but negotiating the price shouldn’t be. The key to saving money when purchasing a home is sticking to a plan during the turbulence of high-stakes negotiations. A real estate agent who represents you can guide you and offer you advice, but you are the one who must make the…
You have choices when selecting representation in a real estate transaction. Here are five tips for understanding which type of legal relationship with a real estate professional, called an agency relationship, will best protect you when you buy or sell a home. 1. Buyer’s agency When you’re buying a home, you can hire an agent…
House hunting is just like any other shopping expedition. If you identify exactly what you want and do some research, you’ll zoom in on the home you want at the best price. These eight tips will guide you through a smart homebuying process. 1. Know thyself Understand the type of home that suits your personality….
The National Association of Realtors surveys home buyers and home sellers annually to gather detailed information about the home buying and selling process. These surveys provide information on demographics, housing characteristics and the experience of consumers in the housing market. Buyers and sellers also share information on the role that real estate professionals play in…
Owning your home not only allows you to build wealth through appreciation, but it can also reduce the amount of income tax you pay every year. Here are seven tax benefits for homeowners. 1. Homebuyer tax credits If you purchase your first home before April 30, 2010, you’re entitled to a tax credit of up…
A home warranty, or a home protection plan, is a type of insurance that covers a home’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as some appliances. These are items that aren’t typically covered by a homeowners insurance policy. Once the warranty is in place, if a problem arises with an item that is coverage,…
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