10 Helpful Hints For Moving With Pets

realtormag

Freedigitalphotos.net

      

Moving day is very busy with a lot on the To Do List, but don't forget your pet! There are a few things you can do to make the move go well for your canine friend:

• Make sure your pet's tag is current: Your pet's ID tag should include your phone number, new address, and cell phone number.
• Vet records: If you are moving far enough that you need to get a new vet, be sure to get your pet's records from your old Veterinarian. 
• Stash medication and food with you: In the event of an emergency, it's important to be prepared with the bare essentials of what your pet needs. 
• Create a safe zone: Keep your pet away from all of the craziness and set up a cozy place for them to hang out such as a bathroom.
• First Aid: Be sure to have a few basic first aid supplies on hand in case they are needed. Suggestions include gauze, towels, bandages, 3% hydrogen peroxide, and your vet's phone number.
• Car safety: The safest way for your pet to travel in the car is always a crate, but if that's not possible then use a restraining harness. Put some favorite toys and maybe a blanket with your pet so they are comfortable. Never leave a pet unattended inside the storage area of a van or an open truck bed. 
• If flying: Be sure to check with the airlines about requirements or restrictions about flying with your pet. If flying may make your pet upset, consult with your vet about ways to reduce anxiety and stress.
• New vet/animal hospital: If necessary, find a new place for your pet to receive medical care. Ask your current vet to recommend a new provider in your area and/or talk with other pet owners to get suggestions.
• Help your pet adjust to your new home: As soon as possible after moving, put out all of your pet's items including food, water, toys, etc. Keep windows and doors closed as your furry friend may try to make a run for it. 
• Explore your new locale: Once you find a new vet, find out if there are any special laws in the area regarding pets or any concerns about diseases such as heartworm. Seek out dog parks, pet stores, and other amenities that will help make you and your pet feel at home.

Signs You Are Buying In The Right Neighborhood

 Freedigitalphotos.net 

• It meets points on your neighborhood checklist
• You hear good things about the area and like what you see when spending time in the neighborhood and visiting surrounding businesses 
• You see signs of home improvement such as nice landscaping, fences, decks, patios, etc. Home improvement efforts are usually indicative of pride in home ownership.
• There are neighborhood watches/meetings: This is a sign that the community is close knit. Try attending some of these gatherings to learn more about the area and to determine if it's a good fit for you.
• Crime numbers are low
• School scores are high: Schools are rated according to certain criteria such as standardized testing and those ratings can be seen at sites such as GreatSchools.org
• Ensure the area meets your needs for at least 5 years: Maybe you are a young couple without kids right now but what if you decide to have a family in a few years or you change jobs? It's a good idea to choose an area that will be able to accommodate such changes.
• Homeownership is strong: Areas with high homeownership rates are generally stable.
• Houses sell quickly

Happy Friday

Thanksgiving

Tips For Saving On Groceries

Tipnut

Freerangestock.com

• Shop on non-peak days; Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are less busy  and items are usually marked at much better prices these days since it's harder to get shoppers in the door at these times.
• Be picky about expiration dates: For bakery items, meats, dairy, and packaged fresh produce, don't take items from the front of the shelf. The store pushes the items soonest to expire to the front and stocks the back with more fresh items.
• Stock up on deals: Items such as shampoo and deodorant can be stocked up on safely when you have a coupon since you know you will use them. You should never have to pay full price for these items since coupons for them are easy to find in print, online, and on phone apps.
• Take advantage of coupons: Use coupons whenever you possibly can, but only for items that you will use. Keep your coupons organized so that you know what you have.
• Keep your pantry, fridge, and cupboards organized: If everything is in disarray, it's easy to miss items and buy duplicates that you don't need. Lot's of money is wasted due to disorganization.
• Buy in bulk whenever possible: If an item is easy to freeze, buy it in large packages, cut it down to meal size, and freeze. When prices for in season fruits and vegetables are reasonable, buy a large amount and freeze it.
• Use cheap cuts of meat where you can: Cheap and often tough cuts of meat can be used for soups, stews, broths, and slow cooker recipes. The tough cut of meat that you start out with will melt in your mouth when cooked low and slow. Use beans, rice, and pasta as cheap fillers in meals where you can. 
• Keep your eye on the bottom shelf: Stores put the items with the highest profit margins on the middle shelf since they catch the eye of consumers easily. Many times, items with the biggest bang for your buck are stored on lower shelves so don't forget to look down there.
• Shop less frequently: Shopping for groceries every week can inflate your bill. Instead, it's ideal to make one big shopping trip a month and then to just return to the store weekly for fresh produce. When you do go in to the store solely for produce, head straight to the produce section with just a hand basket that can't be filled with items that are non-essential. 
• Cook at least one cheap meal per week: Plan on making a low budget meal once a week by doing things such as putting cheap cuts of meat in the slow cooker. This means that you are spending less money on a least 4 meals a month which means your grocery bill will shrink.
• Make your own things: Try making homemade dish detergent, laundry detergent, fabric softener, etc. You can find recipes for DIY items all over the internet-especially Pinterest! 
• Don't shop hungry: Have a snack before heading to the grocery store; shopping hungry can lead to making unneeded purchases.
• Shop at more than one store: Allow yourself time to stop at more than one store in order to find the best deals. Maybe one store is great for produce and another one is great for meat.
• Shop late at the deli: Going to the deli after 7 pm may help you to rack up some savings. Often times, things like roasted chicken and deli salads can be sold at a discount later in the day since the store is eager to sell them before closing time.

$500 In Energy Savings In 5 Rooms

The Herald-News HomeLife

Flickr.com

• $215 in the living room: Replace the 5 most frequently used incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs to save $65 a year. Also, installing an Energy Star qualified programmable thermostat can assist homeowners in controlling the temperature when they are away from home and sleeping at night to save as much as $150 a year in energy costs.
• $145 in the bathroom: Replacing the existing shower head with a 2.5 gallon-per-minute (low flow) shower head and keeping showers to 10 minutes in length can save 5 gallons of water during a typical bath and add up to $145 in savings on the electricity it takes to heat the water.
• $74 in the laundry room: To save hot water (which costs $24-$40 to heat each year), wash your clothes in cold water only. Ensure that you use laundry detergent made for cold temperatures. Save another $34 a year by cleaning the lint trap on your dryer before each load goes in, which will allow the dryer to be more efficient. 
• $36 in the basement/utility room: Lowering the water heater temperature from 145 degrees to 120 degrees can save the average homeowner between $36-$61 a year and making this temperature change will only be noticeable as far as your utility bill goes...
• $35 in the kitchen: Don't allow your money to go down the drain; repair leaky kitchen faucets to avoid wasting 1,661 gallons of water per year/$35 in electricity or natural gas.

Quick Fixes For Annoying Renovation Problems

Elle Decor

Flickr.com

• Wallpaper adhesive that won't come off the wall: Mix a solution of hot water and vinegar (80/20) and use a wet sponge to apply it to the wall in circular motions. Leave the solution on the wall for 15 minutes and then use a putty knife to gently scrape off the glue.
• Rough wall textures that make painting a nightmare: Fill in large holes and dents with spackle and then lightly sand down uneven textures and bumps.
• Paint ran through painter's tape onto moldings and ceilings: Dip a small paint brush or the corner of a rag into paint remover, being careful not to soak the brush or rag, and then press it onto the paint spot for a few seconds before wiping away. Let the spot dry and repeat as necessary.
• Paint that dripped onto the carpet: The first step is to soak up any excess paint, being careful not to spread the stain. Then pour distilled vinegar onto a clean cloth and blot the stain until all or most of the paint has lifted off the carpet. Finally, wash the area with warm water and soap.
• Dry wall dust that seems to get EVERYWHERE after a renovation: After sweeping up as much dust as possible, use a spray bottle to spray water on the area to help any fine dust settle. Next, use a wet rag to wipe down walls, floors, counters, and any other problem areas.
• Scratches in furniture and floors from moving furniture around: To repair light to medium wood, seep black tea until it is the desired color. Use a cotton ball to dab the tea onto the scratch and then wipe away the excess. For darker wood, mix instant coffee with water to form a thick paste and dab in onto the scratch, wiping away the excess when finished. 
• A ring of paint from rinsing rollers and brushes that won't come off the inside of the sink: If scrubbing with soap and hot water a few times doesn't remove the stubborn stain, a small amount of paint thinner or nail polish remover should take away the stain. Be sure to thoroughly wash the sink with soap afterwards.
• Air bubbles and other problem areas on freshly painted walls: The best way to repair these areas is to scrape off the problem spot and repaint it.
• Old paint color on door hinges, handles, and light fixtures: Instead of investing in all new hardware, simply remove the stained hardware and soak it in a mixture of baking soda and water which will lift off the paint and make your hardware appear brand new.

The 7 Steps To Buying A Home

 Freedigitalphotos.net 

1. Make An Offer-A formal offer is written up and signed. This is a legally binding contract, however, contingencies can be added to allow the buyer to opt out of the contract should certain circumstances arise.
2. Disclosures-Sellers are obligated to disclose any known issues that may affect property value or livability. If something is listed here that is a negative for you as the buyer, you may opt out of the contract.
3. Appraisal- Buyers will usually put a sum of money down towards the purchase of the home. The bank will send out an appraiser to come out and evaluate the value of the property. If the contract price does not align with the appraisal value, the bank can reject the loan or change the terms of the loan.
4. Inspection-As a buyer, one of your rights is to have a property inspection done. An inspector will come out and evaluate the entire property from the foundation to the roof. If there are minor issues that come up as a result of the inspection, a buyer can negotiate with the seller to have something fixed or to add a credit.
5. Loan approval- The lending bank will go through your credit history, income, and debt and will also ensure that there are no liens against the property in question. The bank can take up to 30 days to complete their review. Once they are done, you are closer to the purchase of your dream home!
6. Final walk-through-Just prior to closing, you will walk through the property to make sure that it is still in the condition it was when you first saw it and also to ensure that any fixes that were negotiated are completed.
7. Closing- The closing will take place at an attorney's office or a title company. All closings happen under different circumstances; sometimes the buyers and sellers will close together and sign papers in the same room and other times the buyers and sellers may never meet. If you are a buyer and obtaining a loan, be prepared to sign many documents and make sure to have your photo ID. It is always a good idea to review the closing statement prior to closing in order to avoid any surprises.

5 Ways To Make Your Kitchen Last Longer

Flickr

• Choose quality appliances: Do your research prior to purchasing appliances and choose brands/models that don't just look good but that also have a good track record.
• Choose durable surfaces: You may need to spend more, but using surfaces that stand up to the test of time are worth it in the long run. Granite has been very popular in recent years and it is a great choice because of how durable it is. Quartz is another great option; not only is it durable but it also never has to be sealed. Avoid surfaces such as butcher block, concrete and marble since they can all be cut and chipped. Hardwood floors continue to be a very popular choice for kitchens and you should opt for pre-finished solid wood since it is more durable and they are also under warranty from the manufacturer. Vinyl is another great choice-it now comes in a variety of faux-natural patterns and it is priced very well.
• Invest in cabinetry: Since cabinets get used frequently, it's important to choose ones that are made of quality construction. You don't necessarily need to invest in custom cabinetry, since some semi-custom as well as stock cabinets are great choices and feature many quality characteristics. 
• Choose the right finishes: Spending hundreds of dollars on a designer faucet and sink may not be the best choice. You can save a lot of money by choosing a simpler design made with a durable finish. Faucets made with PVD finish (physical vapor deposition) have been found to be the most scratch resistant and stainless steel sinks do best with resisting stains, scratches, and heat. 
• Keep it clean: A clean kitchen will hold up better over time. Letting spills settle on a smooth cooktop can cause corrosion and dirt on floors can wear down the finish. Pine-Sol is a top rated all purpose cleaner and cleaners made specifically for cooktops, stainless steel, etc, should be used.

Adding Value With Home Renovations

Herald News Home-Life

Flickr

• Kitchen: Homeowners usually spend a lot of time in the kitchen so an updated kitchen is very desirable to most buyers. A dated kitchen, even if the rest of the home is updated, can take away from the home's value. Sellers can expect to get back between 60% to 120% of their kitchen remodel investment. 
• Paint: One of the cheapest ways to renovate a home is to paint spaces with neutral and modern hues that brighten up a space. If low VOC paint is used, the home can be advertised as eco-friendly which is looked upon favorably by many buyers.
• Bathroom: Putting in an additional bathroom is a great investment. More than one bathroom is a great selling feature especially in older homes that may have only had one bathroom.  Finding space for another bathroom can be hard, but consider closets, areas underneath stairs, and taking some space from other rooms. When looking for a space, keep in mind that half baths need at least 18 square feet and full baths need 30-35 square feet.
•  HVAC system: Many homebuyers would like to buy a home that has a newer heating and cooling system since those systems are expensive and once they are replaced they usually last for years. 
• Illumination: Adding light to a home makes a huge impact and goes beyond just overhead lighting and accent lighting. Task lighting such as lights underneath cabinets is a good choice as are skylights and sun tubes that bring natural light into spaces.

Ikea Study

houselogic

Freerangestock.com

The huge Swedish retailer studied 4,000 US consumers, both male and female heads of household, between the ages of 25-54, to find out what matters most in a home. Here are a few things they found:

• Comfort: 95% want their home to be comfortable-not just with cushy furniture but they want a 'feel good' vibe in their home so that they can relax and connect with loved ones and friends.
• We don't show off: Only 1% of those surveyed wanted their dwelling place to reflect their wealth and success.
• We adore living rooms: That could explain why open kitchens are popular; homeowners don't want to be closed off from their favorite room.
• We crave bigger kitchens: Many of those polled want more storage in the kitchen and more counter space as well.
• Technology in the kitchen: 27% say they use technology in the heart of the home to listen to music, use a computer, or watch TV while cooking or relaxing.
• What's under the bed?: It seems as though many of us want more storage in our bedrooms as well; 54% said they store items under the bed.
• We desire to save energy: If the opportunity was there, 98% said they would purchase an Energy Star-rated appliance. Americans are also starting to move away from incandescent light bulbs by switching to LED bulbs (43%).
• Going green: An enormous 71% of Americans report that they recycle at home and 28% want to create their own solar power.

Does this study accurately reflect your attitude about home? What do you think?

Happy Friday!

15 Minute Home Makeovers

freerangestock.com

• Switch the plates: Update switch plate and outlet covers.
• Make touch ups: Touch up scratched baseboards, window and door trim, and marks on the wall that won't go away.
• Change out hardware: Putting in new drawer pulls and knobs can give a room an inexpensive face lift. Home improvement stores have a wide variety of inexpensive hardware to choose from.
• Update the mailbox: Give an old mailbox a makeover by scrubbing it down and then spray painting it, either the same color or a new hue.
• House numbers: Switch out your old house numbers for new ones to create a custom look. Some numbers are peel and stick and others need to be nailed in. There are different material choices such as wood, plastic, brass, stainless steel, etc. Expect to spend about $6-$30 a number.
• Toilet seat: A new toilet seat can instantly improve the look of your bathroom without spending a lot.
• Declutter: Spending 15 minutes a day decluttering a room can really make a huge difference in your home. Start in the kitchen by clearing off your refrigerator door and watch your kitchen instantly look cleaner. Put mail and other paperwork in labeled boxes with lids or other organizers; put school supplies in caddies, etc.

Mortgage Terms Defined

freedigitalphotos.net

1. GFE and HUD-1:  GFE stands for good faith estimate and is a document for borrowers listing estimated costs of the mortgage loan including points (if any), lender's origination fee, title insurance, attorney fees, etc. HUD-1 refers to the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Once the mortgage closes, the actual costs of the loan are reflected on a HUD-1 form.
2. DTI: Debt to income ratio, which is found by dividing the borrowers monthly bills by monthly income before tax, and then finding a percentage, is used by lenders to determine how much a borrower can afford to pay each month. 
3. LTV: LTV stands for loan to value and is one way for lenders to assess the risk of a loan. The loan to value ratio is the mortgage divided by the purchase price or appraised value of the home. Borrowers with an LTV of less than 80% usually get the lowest rates since they are seen as less of a risk.
4. RESPA and TILA: The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) and the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) are the two main federal legislations that regulate mortgage lending to consumers. For example, RESPA requires lenders to provide borrowers with a GFE within 3 days of applying for a loan and the HUD-1 form prior to or at the closing. TILA requires lenders to give borrowers clear terms and costs for a loan.
5. PMI and MIP: PMI stands for private mortgage insurance and it is paid by the borrower if a down payment of less than 20% is made or when the borrower has less than 20% equity in a refinance. MIP is for mortgage insurance premium and this is paid on loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration. 
6. ARM: An adjustable-rate mortgage is a home loan where the interest can change. These loans usually begin with a lower interest rate than fixed loans, however, the borrower can end up paying more than if they had a fixed rate loan.
7. HELOC: A home equity line of credit lets homeowners borrow cash against the home equity. Loan to value ratio is often used to determine the credit limit and many times a HELOC will have a variable rate.
8. VOR, VOM, VOD, VOE, and form 4506-T: When applying for a loan, lenders will need to verify facts about your personal finances. The process will usually involve some or all of the following forms: VOR or verification of rent, VOM or verification of mortgage, VOD or verification of deposit, and VOE or verification of employment. Borrowers can also be asked to provide Internal Revenue Service Form 4506-T which gives lenders transcripts of tax returns.
9. PITI: PITI is the monthly mortgage payment total including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance costs.

Why Do I Need A Realtor?

Freedigitalphotos.net

Realtors stand out from the crowd in the real estate industry. Not every person selling homes can call themselves a Realtor. Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors and they follow a strict code of ethics. Realtors also possess a greater knowledge of the process of buying and selling a home. Considering that buying and selling a home is such a big life event, don't you want someone who is truly an expert in real estate and maintains the highest level of professionalism? Dawn Dause is a certified Realtor and is truly an expert and a top professional in the industry. Below are several more reasons why using a Realtor is so important:

• Realtors can help you navigate the decision on how much to spend.
• Your Realtor has access to hard to find properties-Not every home that is available is actively advertised. 
• Realtors can help you determine which property is right for you by providing objective and informative facts on each home.
• Realtors have the skills and experience to negotiate on your behalf.
• Assistance with inspecting the property-Realtors can recommend professionals to ensure that the home you are considering is free of major issues.
• Finance options-Your Realtor can help you sort out different financing options available to you and can provide you with a financial professional to assist you.
• Closing-Realtors guide you through the closing and make sure that everything goes well.
• Asset to home sellers-If you are selling your home, Realtors are able to provide you with current market information as well as information about competing homes in your area.
• Marketing-Your Realtor will advertise your home both to the public as well as to other agents. Dawn Dause has a team committed to getting your listing out to the public using several different platforms, including social media.

Winter Home Fixes

House Logic

Flickr

• Squeaky door hinges: Apply some powdered graphite ($2.50 for a 3 gram tube) around the pin where the hinge turns. 
• Loud floor boards: Use an anti-squeak repair kit such as Squeeeek No More ($23) or for a cheaper alternative, simply shake some talcum powder into the seam where the floorboards come together and the powder will quiet the floor by creating a buffer between the boards.
• Rusted shut-off valves: Look under sinks and behind toilets to see if the valves are rusted; if so, they may not work properly when you need them to. If they are rusty, spray some WD-40 on the handle shafts and twist the handles back and forth to let the oil soak in. If they won't budge, spray some more WD-40 on and wait a couple of hours before trying again.
• Peeling paint on shower ceilings: Since this area sees a lot of heat and moisture it can really distress the paint. Scrape off the old paint and replace it with an exterior grade paint. Also, be sure that the bathroom fan is always running when the shower is being used to help get rid of excess moisture. 
• Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors: Replace the batteries in all of your detectors at the same time once a year.
• Exhaust filter in the stove: Remove the filter and wash it to remove the grease; this will make the exhaust vent more efficient and can help stop a stovetop fire from spreading.
• Dryer vent: Pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the vent pipe. Vacuum up any lint inside of the pipe and also remove lint from the spot where the pipe connects to the dryer. Clean any lint off of the exterior dryer vent as well. It's very important to do this periodically; clogged dryer vents are one of the main causes of house fires. 
• Drain hoses: Check the clothes washer, dishwasher, and ice maker.  If any of the hoses are leaking or cracked, replace them to prevent future flooding.

Tips For Moving Cross-Country

Flickr

• Give yourself plenty of time: If possible, start preparing for the move 8 weeks prior to your moving date.
• Figure out the best moving method for you: Determine whether you should pack everything into your car and drive yourself, if you need to rent a moving truck, or have a professional moving company pack your belongings and transport them for you.
• Strong boxes are a must: It is important to have nice, durable moving boxes since they will be holding all of your important belongings. Many manufacturing plants have boxes that you can have for free. 
• Pare down your belongings: Really go through everything and figure out what you don't really need. Things will be much easier if you can pack only the necessities and either sell, give away, or throw away those items that you don't really need such as that spare toaster.
• Keep important documents close by: Find all important papers, such as birth certificates, insurance documents, passports, etc. and put them in clearly labeled folders. You may want to even keep these folders with you and  not packed away to ensure that nothing important is lost.
• Label boxes and take inventory: If you are having a company move your things for you, consider taking photos of your boxes to make sure that everything arrives at your new home. Label all boxes so that you can have an idea of where to put the boxes once they arrive at your new location and it will make unpacking so much easier.

Thinking Ahead About Refinancing

Freerangestock.com

Below are a few ways to prepare yourself to be ready to refinance if the opportunity is ever there:

• Make a good down payment: In order to get the very best mortgage terms, it is likely necessary to put 20% down. A sizable down payment also increases your chances of being able to refinance later on.
• Be aware of prepayment penalties: These penalties often go away over time, however, they may make it difficult to refinance early on in the life of the mortgage.
• Keep on top of your credit: If you are looking to refinance your loan, chances are you will need to qualify again, especially to obtain the very best rates.
• Take good care of your home: Refinancing lenders will want an equity cushion between what your home is worth and how much you are borrowing. Don't let the value of your home decrease due to poor maintenance. 
• Consider the right loan: If you start with a 30 year loan, you should probably look at 30 year refinance rates. Once you make more principal payments, refinancing to a 15 year loan may make more sense.

Creative Ways To Add Closet Space

aol

 Freedigitalphotos.net

 Closet space is something that most home buyers are interested in, however, if you can't boast about having as many walk in closets as you'd like-don't worry, you have different options on how to add this coveted space to your home.

• Free standing wardrobe: This is a quick way to instantly add storage space to a room. You can use just one or purchase multiple wardrobes and line them up along a wall to add even more space. A positive about wardrobes is the fact that traditional closets have about 6-7 cubic feet taken up by studs and drywall while free standing wardrobes on the other hand have virtually no space taken up from construction.
• Built in wardrobe: These may be made up of one or more large cabinets, built behind sliding doors, or frame built. 
• Open closets: These are usually found in spaces such as garages, craft rooms, play rooms, media centers, home office areas or even bathrooms and are composed of closet organizer parts.
• "Found" space: Closets can be put in spaces such as under the stairs, at the end of a kitchen cabinet run, in an attic, etc. A spare room can also be turned into a walk in closet and then transitioned back into a bedroom when you go to sell the home (with resale value in mind).
• Framed closet: This type of closet is created by putting up stud walls from the floor to the ceiling, applying dry wall to them, and then finishing them with paint. The opening to the space is closed off by the doors of your choice and the trim and hardware can be done to match the rest of the room.

What Do Homeowners Want?

Realtybiznews

Flickr

The Demand Institute conducted a study regarding what American homeowners want that they don't have. Here is what they found:

• Energy efficiency: 71% of households polled said that energy efficiency in their home was important but only 35% said they were currently satisfied with how energy efficient their home is. Smart thermostats, energy-use monitors, energy efficient appliances, and smart home technology are becoming increasingly popular to meet the goal of being energy efficient.
• Renovations: More than 75% of households said their home needs renovations. The top five major home improvement projects desired are: painting, replacing carpet/flooring, remodeling a bathroom, remodeling a kitchen, and replacing doors/windows.
• Updated kitchen: 62% of households said a modern kitchen with updated appliances and finishes is important while only 38% said they were satisfied with their current kitchen.
• Accessibility: 76% said they want a home that they can grow older in; 53% said their current home meets that criteria. 
• Safety: 22% of those surveyed said they are unsatisfied with the safety in their current home. Home security systems and other safety technology may be key to giving homeowners more peace of mind.
• Privacy: 63% of households said privacy from their neighbors was important.
• More storage: Almost half of the households surveyed said they desire more space than they have in their current home. 

How Long Does It Really Take To Increase Your Credit Score?

Trulia

Flickr

The amount of time it takes to raise your credit score can vary, although many of these tips can affect your score within 30-60 days.

• Obtain a copy of your credit report and look for errors: The FTC estimates that 1 out of 5 consumers have a mistake on their report. If you find one on yours, make a note of it and be sure to dispute it. 
• Reduce your credit utilization: You can go about this a couple of was; reduce your spending and/or increase your credit limits. Ideally only 1/3 of your available credit should be used. Lowering your credit utilization rate will have a positive impact on your score.
• Don't apply for multiple forms of credit within a short amount of time: Each time you apply for a new form of credit (credit card, car loan, etc.) your credit is pulled. Too many credit inquiries in a Credit bureaus count a late payment beginning from the first day of your last payment so the sooner you settle late payments the better. Once you have dealt with late payments, automate your bill paying so that paying bills is less stressful. short amount of time can mean a decrease in your score.
• Settle late payments: Although it can be overwhelming, settling late payments is very important. 

Have A Great Weekend!

Tips For Homebuyers That Work From Home

Redfin

Flickr

1. Find a home with an office: A space that is private, quiet, and set apart from the rest of the home is perfect. This may be an actual office, spare bedroom, a walk in closet, finished basement room or space above the attic, etc. A space works especially well if it gets some natural light. If your home office is "used soley and exclusively for business purposes" you can claim a federal tax deduction for business use of your home.
2. Patio or other nice outdoor space: Working from home can be intense with no co-workers to break up your day. Finding a home with a nice outdoor oasis to take breaks in can relieve some stress and allow you to be more productive. 
3. Check into nearby cafes or bookstores: Working from home can get lonely so you may be tempted to reach out to family and friends on the phone, but this can cut into your work time. Look for nice cafes or bookstores that you can bring your laptop to and work from for a little while. This way you can enjoy some great coffee while being around other people, without being too distracted. 
4. Find a home that's close to a park or walking paths: Finding a home that is nearby a nice outdoor space can allow you to take your lunch breaks outside which will help you to relax and clear your mind. 
5. Find a fenced-in yard: Anyone with pets knows that they definitely crave our attention! If you are inside all day with your furry friends they will want you to focus on them, making it difficult to get your work done. With a fenced-in yard, you can let your pets play outside while you get your work done.

3 Reasons Sellers Need A Realtor To Price Their Home

Flickr

1. Home evaluation tools can be inaccurate: Although there are several online tools that can give an estimate of your home's value, these tools are often incorrect by about 5-20%. These inaccuracies mean that you are losing out on both money and buyers if you strictly go by these tools. Realtors may use these tools to begin the home pricing process, but there is a lot more work that goes into the price than simply using online tools. Realtors perform a lot of ground work that the average homeowner may not be able to do.
2. There are many factors that go into the price of a home: Market data is just one component of property value that Realtors will use when coming up with a list price; the rest of the factors are very property specific. The age of the roof, home upgrades, neighborhood info, etc. all come into play when deciding on a listing price. The property specific data is not something that these online tools have access to which can make these home values very inaccurate. 
3. A Realtor's experience plays a big role: A Realtor does a comparative market analysis or "CMA" for every listing. CMAs involve going to a property and thoroughly inspecting both the home and the neighborhood to determine the best price. After completing a CMA, the Realtor will be able to effectively articulate the home's list price to potential buyers and their agents. A Realtor will use their experience and expertise to come to a well thought out price. 

Why Autumn Is Prime Home Selling Season

Flickr.com

• Buyers are still around: A serious home buyer is looking online at homes around the clock and when they find the right one, they take action no matter what time of year it is. Contrary to popular belief, buyers looking at homes in fall/winter may be even more motivated than those looking in the spring or summer because there is less going on and they are more focused on the home search. 
• Less competition: Many people still think that real estate is too slow to list their home during these months so they wait until spring-which is great news for anyone listing their home now. There may be less inventory which means less competition for you! 

The bottom line is, there will be plenty of motivated buyers looking for the right home in a market where there is less inventory. This makes even this fall and winter a great time to sell!

Getting Ready To Sell: De-Cluttering The Kitchen

 Freedigitalphotos.net

When selling your home, it's important to get the kitchen clean, organized and ready to sell since many consider the kitchen to be the heart of the home.

• Clear the counters as best as you can. Put away appliances and only take them out to use them.
• Put rarely used pots, pans, and dishes in storage
• Clean out any "junk drawers"
• Create as much empty space as possible in drawers, cabinets, and the pantry
• If your pantry is crammed full, begin to use as much of it as you can. You don't want to be moving a lot of food when you leave and it will also help to create a clean space that will appeal to buyers
• Clear out as much as possible from underneath the sink. Move any extra cleaning supplies out and make sure that the sink is free from any leaks
• Give the kitchen a scrub down including the counters, sink, cabinets, floors, etc.

Getting A Mortgage After A Divorce

msn

Flickr.com

• You may want to take your name or your ex's name off the mortgage: If you'd like to buy a home and your ex is living in the home you co-own, then your ex should try to refinance in his or her name. Doing this will decrease the debt in your name and increase your chances of getting a mortgage. What happens if your ex can't refinance in their name? If you want to see your ex and the kids stay in the home for awhile, then continue to stay on the mortgage and co-own the home with your ex. If you are going to continue to co-own, attempt to work out the details about how the profits are split once the home is sold. The split may not be 50/50 either, depending on if one spouse is making the majority of the mortgage payments and/or putting money into the home.
• Don't purchase a home during the divorce proceedings: It can be a challenge for a person paying alimony to buy a home. Lenders look at alimony like debt; for example, if a person makes $10,000 a month and gives $3,000 a month to their ex, lenders don't consider the person to be making $7,000 a month-instead they view it like a $3,000 car payment that is made every month.
• Where should you live during the divorce proceedings?: If you aren't selling the home right away and you are both looking for a place to rent, then there are two common situations. One option is to stay in the home with your soon to be ex; more and more couples are choosing this option since it saves both partners money. Another benefit besides saving money while living together is that if the relationship remains civil it greatly benefits the kids. Another option is to rent an apartment near the home while the divorce is being worked out. 
• Don't rush into anything: It can be tempting, but don't rush into buying another home after the divorce. Divorce is extremely stressful and can turn your world upside down, making it difficult to make a good decision. 

6 Money Saving Tips That Really Work

msn

Flickr.com

1. Sort your groceries: After grocery shopping and before checking out, get a second cart and take out all of the items from your first cart that are things you just want, such as chips, ice cream, cookies, etc. Once you do this with your entire cart, add up how much the 'want' items cost and then make a decision; is it worth it? If you decide to part with your 'want' items, put that money you saved in a savings account or travel fund. This grocery shopping strategy can be very eye opening and can help you to make better decisions when shopping.
2. Photograph your receipts: Use the app ReceiptHog to submit pictures of your grocery and superstore receipts and to answer surveys in exchange for 'coins' which can be cashed in to Pay Pal for cash or Amazon gift cards. One user reported earning $80 in the first few months of using the app.
3. Slowly saving: Try the 52-Week Challenge; save $1 the first week, $2 the second week, $3 the third week, and so on. At the end of the year you will have a total of $1,378. This is a great strategy for those who find saving money difficult because it is something that you can ease in to. 
4. From 8 wheels to 4: Selling your second car can save you an average of $675 a month by not having to pay car payments, car insurance, gas and other costs. This can be very doable for someone who commutes by train to work since they may be able to take a bus to the train station.
5. Stash your singles: Try putting all of your singles you come across in an envelope and save them there; consider putting $5 bills away too. You will be clearing out your wallet less often when saving $5 bills versus $1 bills since only 7% of the bills printed by the U.S. Treasury are $5 bills and 29% are $1 bills.
6. Name your account: Try naming your savings account online which will remind you what your are saving for in the first place. For example, if you are saving to help your son buy a car for his 16th birthday, name the savings account "Happy Sweet 16" to serve as a reminder about saving and to motivate you to stay on track.

Little Tips To Make Life Easier

Credit: Freedigitalphotos.net

• Did your little Picasso use your dining room wall to create a work of art? WD-40 cleans most surfaces!
• Did you just paint a flower pot only to have water leaking from it? Put a coffee filter in it.
• Can't get a screw out? Use a wrench to turn your screwdriver.
• Having a hard time drilling into bathroom tile? Use masking tape to prevent the drill from slipping.
• Dirty shower head? Attach a bag filled with vinegar with a rubber band to the shower head, wait a couple of hours, remove the bag and scrub the head. 
• Tired of the dreaded task of cleaning the gutters? Try using gutter guards.
• Make the arrangement of a gallery wall easier but using paper templates before hanging the frames.
• To remove water stains from kitchen or bathroom fixtures, rub the fixtures with a halved lemon, cut side down.

5 Ways To Save On Your Energy Bill

House Logic

Freedigitalphotos.net

1. Caulk and seal air leaks: Look for leaks around plumbing lines, recessed lighting, electricity wires,  windows, attics, and crawlspaces. Sealing off these leaks can save you up to $220/year per U.S. EPA.
2. Consult an HVAC contractor: Have a professional inspect all the ductwork in your home and make any repairs to leaks. It's also a good idea to have an HVAC tune-up. These steps can save a homeowner up to $330/year.
3. Program your thermostat: Programming your thermostat to energy-saving settings can save up to $180/year per EPA.
4. Replace light bulbs: Replacing traditional bulbs with LEDs or CFLs (although LEDs may be a better choice since they don't contain mercury) can save on energy costs. Although these new bulbs are more expensive than traditional ones, they do last longer and they are coming down in price. If you replace your 5 most used bulbs with these modern varieties, you can save up to $75/year.
5. Turning down water heater temp: Setting your water heater temp to 120 degrees Fahrenheit versus the 140 degrees most come out of the box set to can save you 6%-10% on your annual water heating costs.

Creating A Spa Bathroom At Home

scotch-brite

Flickr

• Apothecary jars: Placing different sized apothecary jars filled with various bathroom supplies such as bath salts, cotton balls, etc, not only creates a spa look but it also helps to organize the space.
• Nice towels: Choosing neutral, white towels made of Egyptian cotton or micro-cotton not only looks clean and plush but those materials are extremely soft and luxurious.
• Mirrors: Hanging mirrors from ribbon looks beautiful and creates a light and airy look by allowing the light to reflect around the room.
• Subway tiles: These are a classic look and can be used for a backsplash or on the shower walls for a gorgeous and timeless look.
• Soothing color: Painting bathroom walls a soft blue or gray gives the space a relaxing feel. Try Benjamin Moore Nantucket Fog.
• Fresh flowers: Many people put flowers in living rooms or kitchens but the bathroom can often be an overlooked space. Adding a small vase of fresh blooms can instantly create a beautiful and refreshing look.
• Quality hand soap: Try placing a wonderfully smelling hand soap on a pretty dish so that both you and guests can feel pampered.

Happy Friday!

4 Things You Need Before Buying A Home

Credit.com

Freedigitalphotos.net

1. Emergency fund: An emergency fund saved up to cover unexpected costs is very important as a homeowner. Enough cash to cover 3-6 months of living expenses is ideal. This way, if your income is interrupted for any reason or unexpected expenses arise, you have enough money to still make mortgage payments until back on your feet.
2. Budgeting skills: If you are already able to adhere to a budget that's great; if you have time it's great to try living on a homeowner budget before you buy. Try setting aside mortgage funds every month and see how you do; if you can comfortably live like this, it may be a great time to buy.
3. Steady income: When deciding how much you want to spend on a home, it's important to factor in a steady income that will be able to cover mortgage payments and other home expenses. Go a step beyond that and think about how your financial situation would be affected by different life choices such as going back to school, starting a family, or making a career move.
4. Good credit score: Being familiar with your credit score and credit report is important before trying to obtain a mortgage. Any incorrect information on your report should be corrected and it's always a good idea to know what your score is. Lenders will not only use your score to determine whether or not to lend to you, but also what kind of rates you may qualify for.

Habits Of Highly Effective Home Buyers

1. Get pre-approved: Meet with a lender to see if you qualify for a mortgage and if so, how much. It's important to know what your budget is while house hunting and it's crucial to be pre-approved before submitting an offer on a home.
2. Determine what your must haves, like to haves, and cannot haves are: The home search will be much easier if you can narrow down the features you absolutely need in a home, what you would like to have in a home but is not necessary, and features that you do not want in your future home.
3. Be realistic: Find out what homes are going for in the area you are interested in.
4. Be flexible: Unless you are custom building your dream home, it may be difficult to find every single thing on your wish list in a home. When touring houses, it's important to take in the whole picture and understand what things you can easily change to make the house your own.
5. Have fun: Buying a home does not have to be a stressful process; have fun with it and enjoy the journey to finding your new home!

Childproofing Your Home

Redfin

Flickr

• Outlet covers: It's important to cover up any outlets to ensure that little ones can't stick their hands or toys in them. It's also a good idea to put covers on power strips even if you think they are well hidden.
• Stove knob covers: These covers can be easily removed when it's time to use the stove but they prevent kids from turning on the burners.
• Cabinet and drawer locks: Lock any cabinets or drawers that are within reach, especially those that contain household cleaners or sharp utensils. 
• Corner guards: Put these on any sharp corners on tables, etc.
• Fireplace screen: Putting up a barrier in front of the fireplace is a good idea even if you don't plan on using the fireplace.
• Stair gates
• Window covers: A window screen isn't enough to keep your child from falling out of the window; a window cover is a good idea even if you live in a one story dwelling.
• Childproof the outdoors: Look around your yard to see if there are any rocks/sharp objects that you need to remove or any holes or ditches that your child can fall into. 

5 "Nevers" To Avoid Scams

Good Neighbor

Flickr

1. Never skip a month of going over your financial statements.
2. Never give out credit card info, debit card info, or your Social Security number unless absolutely necessary.
3. Never buy a product that makes unreasonable claims.
4. Never contribute to charities that you have never heard of; check with the Federal Trade Commission for tips on identifying scams.
5. Never wire money to someone that you don't know.

Top 10 Features For New Homes

Realtor Mag

Flickr

Popular Features For New Homes

• Walk-in closet in master bedroom
• Laundry room
• Low-e windows
• Guest room
• Energy-star rated appliances
• 9-foot ceiling or more on the first floor
• Energy-star rated windows
• Programmable thermostat
• Two-car garage
• Granite countertops in the kitchen

Least Likely Features For New Homes

• Outdoor kitchen (cooking, refrigeration, sink)
• Laminate countertops in kitchen
• Outdoor fireplace
• Sunroom
• Two-story family room
• Media room
• Two-story foyer
• Walking/jogging trails in community
• Whirlpool in master bathroom
• Carpeting on main level

What are Comps?

Flickr

Comps, or comparable sales, are homes in the same area and very similar in size, condition, and features, as the home you are attempting to buy or sell.

• Location is the most important: The market is based on location, so when trying to determine the value of a home it's very important to stay as close to the subject property as possible. If there are no comps near by, it's ok to reach further out but there will always be a boundary to stay within such as a school district.
• Timeframe: The very best comps are homes that are "pending" because that home's price reflects live market data. When looking at comps, stay with sales from the last three months and don't look at sales from 6 months ago or longer-those are not a reflection of the current market.
• Consider home features: Look for homes with similar features that have sold. This is more accurate than comparing the price per square foot because that won't take into consideration the views, updated kitchen, finished basement, etc. 
• Don't over analyze: Don't drive yourself crazy over various comps; a good Realtor will be able to shed light on why some comps may be better than others.

5 Home Renovation Scams You Need To Be Aware Of

Redfin

Flickr

When homeowners need to do major renovation work in their home, they usually set out to find a contractor to handle the project. Keep these things in mind when choosing the right contractor for your home:

• Door to door: If a contractor knocks on your door and lets you know they notice your home needs work and then goes as far as to ask for money up front to go and get materials, do not give them anything! Often times this person will not come back and you will be out whatever money you forked over. Quality contractors do not go door to door and are usually listed online and have good reviews as well.
• No examples or past clients: A good contractor that has experience usually can show photographs of previous jobs done and can also provide the contact information of past clients. 
• No contract: Contracts are essential for a renovation because they map out the budget, time frame, materials, etc. If a contractor refuses to sign a contract, look elsewhere for a contractor that will put everything in writing.
• Wants cash upfront: Homeowners should not pay for any work or materials until the job is complete. Most quality contractors will present an itemized bill for the project upon completion for the homeowner to pay. If money is given before the project is done, it may never get completed.
• No permit: Major remodels require permits because they involve electrical, structural and plumbing work. If a contractor insists that no permit is needed, it may be a sign that they do not understand proper procedure and are a fraud. Be sure to thoroughly check references and double check licenses to protect your home and your investment in the project. 

Ready To Sell?

Flickr.com

• You have a plan: Serious sellers usually have an idea of what neighborhood they want to move into and what they want in their next home.
• No emotional attachment: One way to really tell if a seller is truly ready to make the sale is if they no longer have an emotional attachment to the home. 
• Finances are in order: Being aware of the current market conditions and being  pre-approved for a new loan are indicators of ready and willing sellers.
• OK with changes: In some cases, sellers may need to do a little renovation and make a few changes in order to get their home sold quickly. Home owners that are still attached to the home may not be ready to make the changes necessary to get their home market ready.