Ways To Use Your Tax Refund If You Want To Buy a Home

Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a number of expenses involved – from your down payment to closing costs. But did you also know your tax refund can help you pay for some of these expenses? As Credit Karma explains: “If one of your goals is to stop renting and buy a home, you’ll need to save up for…

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The Perks of Downsizing When You Retire [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights If you’re about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try to cut down on some of your expenses. Smaller homes typically have lower energy and maintenance costs. Plus, you may have enough equity built up to fuel your move. If you’re thinking about moving to a smaller home, connect with a real estate professional to go over your goals and look at…

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Consider These Key Factors Before Starting

Tackling a home renovation can be overwhelming, but working with companies that provide personalized guidance can help. It's important to have a clear vision, create a realistic budget, and assemble a reliable team. Visit showrooms to experience fixtures in person and focus on products that truly speak to you. Communication and attention to detail are key for a successful renovation project. Continue to full article

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Builders Are Building Smaller Homes

There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight. And if you’re trying to buy a home, that may mean you need to look at smaller houses to find one that’s still in your budget. But there is a silver lining: builders are focused on building these smaller homes right now and they’re offering incentives. And that can help give you more options that fit the bill. Newly Built Homes Are…

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Should I Move with Today’s Mortgage Rates?

When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause. Maybe you did too because you didn’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. But is that still the right strategy for you? In today’s market, data shows more homeowners are getting used to where rates are and thinking it may be time to…

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Deciding on Your Home Down Payment: a Comprehensive Guide

Down payments for mortgages can range from 0% to over 20%, depending on the type of mortgage and the borrower's circumstances. The riskier the mortgage, the higher the down payment. In the 20 biggest U.S. cities, a 20% down payment can range from $39,127 to $263,392. The down payment lowers the risk to the lender and can affect the mortgage rate. Different types of loans have different minimum down payments,…

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