Six Ways a Mortgage Preapproval Reduces Homebuyer Heartache
There's plenty to think about when you're searching for a new home, and arranging a mortgage might not be at the top of your list. However, it's important not to leave this task to the last minute.
Receiving a mortgage preapproval before you even begin house hunting has many advantages, including saving you from a lot of stress and anguish. Here's a few more... Read More
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Home Sales Slow as Mortgage Rates
and Home Prices Rise
For the first time in two months, home sales declined in December. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), all four sales regions in the country recorded a drop. Rising interest rates were partly to blame. According to Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the NAR, "Softer sales in December reflected consumer search processes and contract signing activity in previous months when mortgage rates... Read More |
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Three Steps to Deep Clean
Your Hardwood Floors
The soft shine and natural patina of a clean and well-finished hardwood floor is inviting and adds beauty to any home. Keeping floors looking beautiful, especially if you have pets or kids, can be a challenge. Follow these three steps to properly care for your hardwood floors.
1. Vacuum Thoroughly
A thorough vacuuming will remove most of the grit and abrasive particles from the floor... Read More
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Think about Scale: A Big Part of Successful Decorating
Homeowners often make mistakes when shopping for art, curtains, and rugs, including buying items that are too small. Paying attention to scale in every aspect of a room—furniture, wall hangings, floor coverings—goes a long way toward creating an inviting, aesthetically pleasing home. Here are a few rules to help you style your walls, windows, and floors:
Use Art to Make a Statement
Do you buy art, struggle to decide where to hang it, and then wonder why it doesn't look right? The problem may be scale. It's best to determine the size needed for a wall hanging before you buy one. When in doubt... Read More
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Energy-Efficient Upgrades Can Pay Off in Energy Savings
Energy-efficient appliances are designed to help you save on utilities and, as a result, save you money. Which energy-efficient options will provide the best return on your investment? Read the following tips to help you decide.
Install a Smart Thermostat
A thermostat that you can program to maintain your home at a comfortable temperature will help you cut your monthly energy bill. Resisting the urge to turn your system up when you are cold and down when you are hot can help cut your energy costs too; the constant yo-yoing of your home's... Read More |
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