How homeowners treat a yard this autumn can determine the quality of their yard next spring and summer. Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, offers up the following checklist for homeowners who want to lay a strong groundwork for a great yard next spring: Keep mowing. Grass still needs regular care…
Some homeowners take on more than they should with do-it-yourself home projects. They could wind up hurting their home value. Homeowners hope to save money through DIY takes on projects, but some lose that savings when they sell. Chicago-area home inspectors recently shared with The Chicago Tribune some of the common DIY mishaps they most often see,…
(NewsUSA) – Sponsored by GAF – Finally ready to take the plunge? Join the club. After having waited on the sidelines for what seemed like forever, first-time homebuyers last year made 38 percent of all U.S. single-family home purchases – the biggest share since 2000 – and the 2.07 million new or existing houses they bought…
(NewsUSA) – When Danielle and Jimmy returned to their home state after three years in Germany, they spent the next six months looking for their first home. “Location was so important to us. We got used to walking everywhere while we were in Germany. Grocery stores, restaurants, beer gardens and pubs were all within walking distance…
(NewsUSA) – Until this summer, Matt Berna had an unusual tradition: Every year, he moved to a new apartment. After doing this for 9 years, the 27-year-old inside sales professional decided enough was enough. “Yeah, I’ve been moving since I was 18,” says Matt, “and I was getting sick of it. I’m really good at packing…
As the industry eagerly anticipates the arrival of baby boomers, intergenerational housing models are emerging as an attractive alternative for a group that wants a different type of retirement experience. Developers, operators and owners are tweaking time-tested intergenerational arrangements and trying new approaches. Mixing different age groups has benefits for everyone involved, experts say. It’s…
How do you build equity in a home while simultaneously enhancing your everyday life? By making home improvements that add value to your property. Not only will improving a home allow you to build equity quickly and efficiently, but it will also make your life more comfortable on a daily basis. Of course, you don’t…
Renting certainly comes with its fair share of advantages. For one, tenants don’t have to worry about making necessary home improvements to the property. They also aren’t responsible for paying expensive property taxes on the rental. In addition, renters have the option to pick up and move at the end of their lease term, giving…
So you’ve found the home of your dreams and are ready to move forward with an offer. Congratulations! Now, all you need to do is secure a home loan from a lender in order to purchase the house. Of course, if you’re a first-time homebuyer, navigating the confusing ins and outs of obtaining a mortgage…