There are some helpful tips in the article below, and you don’t need to be a penny pincher to find this advice useful. We recently tested the theory that ‘fees’ tacked on to regular monthly bill are negotiable… they are! And as for generics, we’ve found some store brands (I won’t name names but their… Read More
Discounts for Home Buyers
Further Easing of Mortgage Credit Standards on the Horizon, According to Lenders
Home prices are rising slowly and interest rates have remained incredibly buyer-friendly so far in 2016, yet there is still some hesitation in the market. A bit of mortgage credit reform is long overdue. I’m thinking that government over-regulation and a recent history of tight mortgage credit standards is scaring the affordable-price and entry level… Read More
Take the Uncertainty Out of the Buying and Selling Process with These Simple Tips
The tips below are certainly helpful but I always take issue with anyone telling you that Real Estate transactions are difficult, stressful or overwhelming. If your agent is doing their job there should be no stress or difficulty involved. The article suggests you hire a lawyer. This is never bad advice, but you should also… Read More
Builder Confidence Holds Firm in January
By Robert Dietz Builder confidence in the market for newly-built single-family homes held steady at 60 in January from a downwardly revised December reading of 60, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI). The January HMI reading is in line with NAHB’s forecast of modest growth for housing. NAHB expects… Read More
Video: How to E-Cycle Your Devices
There are helpful tips in the video below however before you watch, consider my favorite eCycle option Cell Phones for Soldiers. They’ll accept cell phones, smart phones and tablets and you can even donate talk time through Minutes that Matter. In addition, you can donate to the Helping Heroes Home program, providing emergency travel funds… Read More
3 DIY Quick, Easy and Cheap Projects to Improve Energy-Efficiency
Along with the simple tips below, I was blown away by noticeable savings in my electric bill after switching out all of our old light bulbs. There are so many more choices than there used to be, check energy.gov to find out more. Be sure to check with your local power company as well, many… Read More
HVAC Testing Necessary for Off-Season Homebuyers
Did you know colder temperatures can make it harder to determine the functionality of a home’s systems? If you’re purchasing a home at a time when temperatures are falling, it’s important to enlist the services of a seasoned home inspector, says the National Home Service Contract Association (NHSCA), especially when assessing the HVAC system. When… Read More
8 Mistakes that Decrease Your Home’s Value
By Barbara Pronin Keeping up your home’s curb appeal shows more than pride of ownership. It shows respect for your neighbors – and when or if you decide to sell, a well-maintained home means it will sell faster and likely for top dollar. Similarly, maintaining your home’s interior is likely to pay off in the… Read More
Evaluate Your Home’s Energy Use – Take a ‘Homeselfe’
The Selfie has evolved from an act of vanity to a useful tool. Do you know what your home’s energy picture looks like? There’s an app for that. Read on. ~Bill By John Voket Even I am guilty of taking an occasional selfie to ‘check myself’ and see if everything looks good. So the notification… Read More
Whether traveling or staying at home, be safe this Thanksgiving.
It goes without saying that traveling over the holidays is a challenge, but staying at home for Thanksgiving can present its own safety hazards. Read on for some tips on safely preparing your Thanksgiving Dinner. One of the most memorable moments at any holiday dinner is when the turkey is brought to the table. Make… Read More

