Contrary to what you may think, signing up for a mortgage loan doesn’t mean you’re trapped in that rate or term.
Knowing when to refinance, for instance if rates change or events arise that prevent you from paying as you had planned, can help you understand how to cut your costs or tap into your home’s equity.
There are plenty of moving parts when it comes to buying and owning a home. It’s no surprise then, that the terms that go along with the process might be a tad confusing, especially when people bandy around acronyms.
Take heart — you can get up to speed on the definitions in no time.
Here’s a baker’s dozen of some common real estate terms you need to understand when navigating the homebuying process.
The peak homebuying season starts in March and runs through the summer months, with plenty of homes on the market. But according to the experts, if you’re looking for deals there may be better times to buy.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, just 40% of renters have renters insurance. That’s too bad, because it costs very little—usually less than $20 a month—but offers a lot of protection. So why don’t more people get it?
Back in the good old days, it was common for several generations to live under one roof. In recent years, multigenerational living has made a big comeback, and with it more innovative housing choices. In fact, one in five American households are comprised of adults from different generations such as parents and their adult children, or grandparents, parents and children, according to census data.
Home improvements can rejuvenate a stale dwelling. But remodeling and renovations could set you back thousands of dollars for each room.
A “midrange minor kitchen remodel” — including hardware, countertops, flooring and a refrigerator — is about $21,000, on average, according to Remodeling magazine’s 2018 Cost vs. Value report. But with the right approach, you can give your abode some TLC without busting your budget.
Remodeling is both exciting and scary. You’re ready for change, but you don’t want to hurt your home’s value. If you ever choose to sell, you don’t want to get hung up on a bad remodel.
There’s nothing like holiday travel season for spending time with friends and family. But while you’re on the road, make sure your home and hearth is kept safe and secure so you don’t encounter any unpleasant surprises upon your return.
Maybe you’ve bought a house in your day, so you feel like a real estate expert. But even some experienced buyers don’t know everything, though, which is why it’s always good to do your homework before buying or selling another piece of property. It’s time to get real and face the facts, here are five things you probably didn’t know about real estate.
By Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, The Money Coach®
Natural disasters, weather-related catastrophes and other emergencies can strike at any time. When they do, you’ll no doubt want protection for what’s most likely your most costly asset: your home. None of us can outrun windswept fires, massive earthquakes or torrential flooding. And even the latest technology available cannot accurately predict these potentially life-and-property threatening dangers. Continue reading
