Month: July 2017

27
Jul
2017

Are you considering buying a home for the first time? It might come as a surprise that you’ll want to have approximately 20% of the purchase price of your home for a down payment. For some, it can seem nearly impossible to come up with the funds. Fortunately, there are a few ways that you can save a little over time and not have to borrow from the “Bank of Mom and Dad”.

26
Jul
2017

Outside of the significant financial responsibility of delving into home ownership, there can also be a lot of other risks involved that you may not have thought about as a new homeowner. While the requirement of homeowner’s insurance is well known and guarding your house against theft can be commonplace, if you happen to be living in an area that’s at high risk of fire, here are some things to consider beforehand.

21
Jul
2017

The financial responsibility of a monthly mortgage payment can be stressful on its own, but you may be even more concerned about your home investment if you’ve recently lost your job. Fortunately, there are some things you can do and places you can turn if you’re not yet certain where your next paycheck will come from. If you’re struggling with newfound unemployment, here are some important steps to take.

20
Jul
2017

Whether you’re trying to improve the look of your home or are getting ready to put it on the market, the idea of renovations can seem like a significant financial burden to take on. Fortunately, there are a variety of easy solutions for improving the look of your home without all the added expense. If you’re wondering how you can spend $100 wisely, look no further than the following upgrading tips.

19
Jul
2017

According to the National Association of Home Builders, July builder sentiment dipped to an index reading of 64 as compared to June’s revised reading of 66, the original reading was 67. Analysts expected the reading for July to increase to 68. Builders cited increasing lumber prices as a concern affecting builders’ outlook on housing market conditions for new single-family homes. Any reading over 50 for the NAHB Housing Market Index indicates that more builders than fewer are positive about housing market conditions, but July’s reading was the lowest in eight months. NAHB said that home builder confidence in market condition “remains strong.”

18
Jul
2017

It has never been more popular to live a “green” lifestyle and develop sustainable living practices that will help out the planet. While you may be used to recycling cardboard boxes and giving away your old hand-me-down clothes, there are probably a few household items you didn’t even know you could recycle! If you’re wondering what to do with some of your old, used items, here are a few things that may be ready for re-use.

14
Jul
2017

Open houses are a good opportunity to get out and about to see what kind of home you’re looking for, and if it will work for you. Fortunately, they can also be a good opportunity to find out some things about the house you’re looking at that might not be listed on the website and may be less than flattering. If you’re wondering what red flags to watch out for, pay attention to the following things the next time you’re at a showing.

13
Jul
2017

Many people all over the world are dealing with issues involving debt or poor credit history, but most aren’t necessarily aware of what exactly makes up their credit score. Unfortunately, it might seem like it’s the big stuff that counts when it comes to credit, but little things can have a significant impact on your financial health. If you’re looking to improve your understanding and your finances, here’s what you need to know about small mistakes and your FICO score.