Is Overpaying Your Mortgage a Good Financial Strategy?
Most people pay the minimum amount due each month toward their mortgage, taking either 15 or 30 years to pay off the loan, depending on the original terms. However, if you can afford to pay more—even just a small amount—it can make a big difference in your finances.
Sending the Extra Money
One way to pay more money toward your mortgage is to slightly increase your monthly payment by $20-50. Simply add this amount to your check... Read More
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National Data Shows a Stronger
Housing Market
The June 2015 buying season was the strongest one since the economic downturn, with sales increasing to their highest pace in 8 years. This was the sixth month in a row that national home sales increased year over year. What's more, all regions of the country saw sales gains in June. Existing-home sales in the Northeast were 4.3 percent higher than a month ago and 12.5 percent higher than a year ago. In the Midwest, sales climbed 4.7 percent from... Read More |
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Replacement Windows Enhance Curb Appeal and Home Value
If your home's windows are beyond repair, replacement windows can improve your home's appearance—adding curb appeal—and help reduce the energy costs of heating and cooling your home.
Energy Efficiency
Replacement windows, sometimes referred to as retro-fit windows, are custom-made for your home so your individual needs can be addressed. Typically, energy-efficient... Read More
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5 Ways to Increase Your Home's Security
A home is burglarized every 15 seconds in the United States, and over 90% of those robberies occur when no one is at home. If your home appears visible, secure, and occupied, the chances of experiencing a break-in are significantly lower. Below are some of the most effective and proven methods for beefing up your home security without breaking the bank.
1. Invest in Stronger Security
Motion-activated floodlights near any entrances to the home make an excellent deterrent, and window-break alarms provide an inexpensive alternative to a full security system. One area that many people neglect is the front door—most doors aren't reinforced, which means that a single well-placed kick is often all it takes to gain access to your home. The most secure door is one with... Read More
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4 Steps Toward Greener Living
Living a greener lifestyle isn't just about conserving natural resources, it's also about saving money. Whether you're renovating your existing home, or building from the ground up, you can create a home that's more efficient, cost effective and "green."
1. Insulate against air.
In terms of heating and cooling, a well insulated home conserves the most energy by creating an airtight seal, locking out any potential hot or cold air drafts. To properly insulate, replace old windows and doors with more energy efficient options and add extra insulation to the walls, roof and basement... Read More |
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