3 Market Trends Expected for 2015
 The housing market improved slightly in November. The Pending Home Sales Index rose 0.8 percent to 104.8. This is 4.1 percent above November 2013, marking the third consecutive month the index has posted year-over-year gains. Every region of the country saw improvements but the Midwest. Sales in the Midwest decreased 0.4 percent, which is 0.5 percent below last year’s sales. In the North, sales climbed 1.4 percent, 7.0 percent above November 2013. The index also posted... Read More
|
|
|
5 Design Tips to Make the Most of Your Living Room Space
 If you have a small living room space, or a living room that needs sectioning off, some quick decorating tricks can expand and define your space. Here are five ideas that can give the illusion of space with a little rearranging or DIY projects.
1. Use Rugs to Define Space
Sometimes continuous hardwood or carpet can end a room before it begins. Area rugs positioned under end tables or coffee tables can section off... Read More |
|
|
Keep Indoor Air Free of Allergens
When you're done with your regular cleaning routine, you may assume you've eliminated any allergy triggers that were lurking in your home. But the truth is, if you don't clean the right way, you might be making the problem worse.
More than 40 million Americans suffer from allergy problems, and 25 million have asthma. If your cleaning routine doesn't specifically focus on allergen control and removal, you may be only moving dust around... Read More
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
A Loan with a Down Payment Option as Low as 3%
 In December, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac launched Home Possible Advantage, a program that makes it possible for buyers to purchase a home with a smaller down payment. Through the program, low- and moderate-income buyers can qualify for loans with down payments as low as three percent. The program will open up the housing market to responsible buyers who do not have enough saved for a large down payment. Any risk of default is lessened by strong underwriting standards.
The Specifics
Home Possible Advantage mortgages are available as 15... Read More
|
|
|
6 Ways to Prevent Mold Growth
 Not only can mold result in expensive damage, but it releases spores that can pose a major health risk as well. By managing humidity and temperature, it is possible to deprive mold of the resources it needs to flourish, preventing mold growth and protecting your home. Below are some tried and true tips for dealing with mold before it takes hold:
1. Use a Dehumidifier
Mold grows rapidly at humidity levels above 55%, so anyone living in a particularly humid region would be wise to invest in a dehumidifier. In dryer climates, a dehumidifier can still be extremely useful in rooms where moisture accumulates, such as the... Read More |
|
|
