Shopping for a Home: When a
''Deal'' Isn't a Deal
 In many real estate markets across the United States, home affordability is a major obstacle to homeownership. There's a short supply of entry-level starter homes, and oftentimes, homebuyers are in a crunch looking for a "deal"—a home priced below market value or one that doesn't involve a bidding war to buy. However, not every home that appears to be a deal is one. Here's how to... Read More
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Seven Things to Consider Before
Hiring a Contractor
 Are you thinking about remodeling your home or starting a backyard patio project? If you're not a detailed or ambitious person, you may need to hire a contractor to perform some or all the work. Do your homework and be crystal clear with your remodeling or landscaping contractor to reduce miscommunication and expensive errors. Here are some time-tested tips from FindLaw.com, the world's leading... Read More |
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Home Sales Drop, Mortgage Rates
Fall to New Lows
 Mortgage rates are hitting historic lows. According to the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage for the week ending July 2 averaged 3.07%; this is the lowest rate ever recorded in the survey's 49-year history. At the same time last year, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.75%. According to Sam Khater, chief economist for Freddie Mac, "On the economic front, incoming data... Read More
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Try These Kitchen
Sanitizing Tips
 A dirty kitchen may be an eyesore, but it can also be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Here are three tips to maintain a clean kitchen:
Make Your Own Sanitizing Cleaning Spray
To kill bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, you need a cleaning agent that effectively disinfects surfaces. Bleach is an excellent choice for this task because it contains hypochlorite, which destroys bacteria. Many commercially produced household cleaners contain bleach, but you can save money by making your own. Combine 1 part bleach to 10 parts water in a large spray bottle—many spray bottles even come with marks... Read More
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Interior Painting Tips and Tricks
 Learning a few tricks of the trade that painters use will assist you in your endeavor toward beautiful walls. Before choosing your paint, figure out how much you need—one gallon of paint covers approximately 350 square feet.
Common Paint Finishes and Primer
Flat paint. This opaque and sophisticated finish doesn't reflect light. However, it's non-washable, so use it on low-touch surfaces like ceilings or bedrooms.
Eggshell and satin paints. These have a low-luster finish but aren't durable enough for areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Use them in... Read More
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