Mark Ross's Blog Posts

On a recent Sunday night my husband came out to the garden, where I had been working since dawn. He looked concerned.“What are you doing?” he asked in the sort of gentle tone a staff

With soaring prices, hordes of competition, and a dearth of properties for sale, snagging the right home for the right price is no easy task. And it's even worse for first-time buyers.Of the buyers

Other survey insights underscore frustration with the home buying processYou’ve listed your home for sale, and no one is taking the bait. One month passes, then two. How long do you wait before

What is a water hammer? When something goes bump in the night, it could be water moving through your valves and pipes. But when you hear loud banging coming from your plumbing or valves, it's a

Selling your house is not as simple as just putting it on the market and waiting for offers from eager buyers to roll in. (Ah, if only...) If you have any hope that your sale will go smoothly, you

The much discussed—and, in some quarters, much feared—housing slowdown may be coming to an end.The real estate softening that began last summer, marked by a surge in homes hitting the market and

What is a tankless water heater? Also called “demand-type” or “instantaneous water heaters,” these devices deliver warm water only when you want it. Conventional water heaters, on the other

Mulch, a layer of organic material laid over your soil, is a gardener's secret weapon. When done correctly, mulching can conserve the soil’s moisture, slow the erosion process, and help to

Many homeowners who purchase a fixer-upper say it was because they believed they’d save money. But they actually end up spending about the same or more than if they had opted for a move-in-ready

Dogs have such a negative reaction to some of the activities associated with the Fourth of July – fireworks, parades, parties, alcohol consumption – you’d think they’re unpatriotic.Of,

While many homeowners reach a point where they decide to sell their place, here's an alternative I'm considering for my own home: Rather than sell, I may rent it out instead.When I bought my condo

These days, house flipping is a popular concept. There are entire TV shows devoted to it. It may even be something you’ve thought about doing yourself.The premise is simple: You buy a home that

Imagine attending an open house and stepping into a newly remodeled master bathroom complete with brand-new Carrara marble tiling and a luxurious free-standing tub. Home improvements like this are

What is a hard money lender? The real estate term may conjure up visions of crooked-nosed guys who'll cut off a borrower's pinkie finger for flaking on a hard money loan. But you can rest assured

Do you get your earnest money back at closing? If you're buying a house and planning to finance the purchase with the help of a mortgage, the question is bound to come up. The short answer is: You

Ellie Mae report shows borrowers are in better shape financiallyA strong labor market coupled with lower borrowing costs has put Americans in better shape to get a mortgage, based on average FICO

Taking on a home renovation can improve your property's value, remedy any nagging structural or cosmetic flaws, and generally make your place way more comfortable to live in. All good!But hold on:

Planning to remodel your bathroom into the oasis of your dreams? Then you'd better get a handle on your plumbing. Even if you don't see the pipes connected to your sink or shower, understanding how

Looking to make your outdoor area more livable? Consider adding a hardscape feature to complement your plants and flowers. A decked-out backyard can give a big boost to your property's value, and

Rates for home loans mostly held steady, and even declined slightly, as investor jitters about a slowing economy and geopolitics continued to keep bonds attractive.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage

In the real estate game, many buyers understand that knowing a home's days on market (DOM) is absolutely critical intel. Why? Because the number of days a home spends on the market directly affects

Eco-friendly living is all about choosing materials and practices that are beneficial to the environment. But did you know this can also include your renovation process and the materials you use?�

Is it time to turn your en suite bathroom into a personal oasis? Before you start poring over which tiles or slipper tub to install, know that the far more crucial choice is to find the right

Homeowners are increasingly living out their HGTV fantasies by remodeling their homes, with a particular focus on taking their kitchens and bathrooms from drab to fab.Homeowners spent the most on

Home sellers are often told to make upgrades to their house before they sell ... but when is the best time to get those home improvements underway, in terms of scoring the best ROI?It's a tough

Buying a home is a complicated process that involves sharing sensitive information with multiple people. And the latest major data leak highlights the risk consumers take on when they share that

Selling a home can be a long, time-consuming process, especially if the seller and potential buyers butt heads. Sometimes, the issues behind a deal-making deadlock are legitimately big. Other times,

In a perfect world, you'd have a sprawling backyard with enough room to plant everything from tulips to turnips. But in reality? Many of us have a very small outdoor space.And no, we're not talking

If you're lucky enough to own more than one property, or have an in-law unit just sitting empty behind your house, the thought has surely occurred to you: Why not just make back some cash by renting

IF YOU ARE BUYING OR selling a house, odds are you're hyper-focused on the layout, the closet space and the yard – all aspects that a homeowner can't easily change. But another important

Let's face it: Housecleaning isn't how most of us would ideally spend our free time. We put it off and off and off, until we can't ignore the mess any longer. And when we do finally get around to

Moving is the worst. But for those who can be flexible in scheduling their move, choosing the right season to relocate can make the whole experience smoother. So which time of the year is most

If you're looking for a better way to get a feel for a new neighborhood, consider a tactic some recent homebuyers in New York have put to use: Because they are seriously considering moving to a

Applying for

When is the best time to sell your house? Timing can make a big difference in terms of selling your home quickly and for the most cash. But here's the thing: The rules on pinpointing that best time

If you’re like most homeowners, your house is a host of tiny irritations you keep meaning to fix but never do. Maybe it’s a light fixture you constantly bang your head on, or wallpaper you’ve

How much does a backyard renovation cost? It's a question that many homeowners ponder if they're on the verge of upgrading their yard from an overgrown thicket to a beautifully landscaped oasis. But

What's the most common home-buying mistake? If you're reading this from a cramped living room, or while lying in your itty-bitty "master" bedroom, you probably know the answer: buying a too-small

What's the best flooring to boost your home's resale value? Whether you're selling your place or are just thinking about replacing what's under your feet with something shiny and new, you'll want to

An overhyped stereotype about millennials is that they’re entitled narcissists who can’t be bothered to do homework, legwork or even stash a few dollars in the bank (see avocado toast). That

Spring just on the horizon means your heater is about to go dormant for a while. Hooray! But be forewarned: You're likely to notice a burning smell once you turn it back on at the start of the next

Ginnie Mae is taking steps to curb repeated mortgage refinancings that it says are hurting both borrowers and investors.The government-backed firm, which promotes homeownership by guaranteeing

Wondering how to get a real estate listing removed from the internet? Whether you're a seller who's withdrawn your house from the market, or a buyer who's just closed on a new place, fielding

Conventional wisdom dictates that one of the more successful tactics out there to convince a home seller to accept your offer is get personal: Include some sweet and heartfelt information to them in

You’ve spent months—perhaps years—searching for the perfect house, and you've finally found it. But you're not alone; there's a very strong chance that other home shoppers are vying for it,.

In the best-case scenario, your bathroom is your own blissful retreat—a little slice of spa heaven where you can unwind without ever leaving the comfort of your own home.In reality, your bathroom

Home sellers often hear that if they ever hope to find a buyer, they must whip their house into perfect shape—fix this, paint that, overhaul your horribly outdated kitchen. But just looking at the

Despite a real estate slowdown gripping the nation, this year's housing market is expected to be busier than realtor.com® economists originally predicted late last year. That means more home—

You've heard it before: Conserving water is important. With all the water that Americans use each day—an estimated 322 billion gallons—every action you take, no matter how small, can contribute

While many people turn out for Earth Day events that ironically generate tons of trash, this eco-holiday offers an opportunity to create lasting change in your habits that can lessen your impact on

Spring is in the air and homebuyers are coming out of hibernation. With the holidays over and the weather warming up, it’s the time of year that's typically considered a hot period for the housing

After hitting a low point last month, mortgage interest rates are continuing to tick back up along with activity in the home-buying market for spring.Rates rose to an average 4.17% on a 30-year-

Get ready for Gen Z. People between the ages of 18 and 23 are eager to become homeowners, and many are already setting aside money for a down payment.More than half of Gen Zers surveyed said they

If you hire a real estate agent to help you buy, sell, or rent a house, this professional gets paid through a real estate commission. So how much do you pay, and what for? Is there any wiggle room

Rates for home loans edged up after reports showed the economy was shrugging off its winter sluggishness.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.12% during the April 11 week, mortgage guarantor

Mortgage interest rates are a mystery to many of us—whether you're a home buyer in need of a home loan for your first house or your fifth.After all, what does “interest rate” even mean? Why do

Although housing prices are finally beginning to cool, there's no denying that much of the nation is still in a seller's market.Case in point: The rat-infested Orange County, CA, "hoarder home" that

As mortgage interest rates dropped to their lowest levels in over a year last week, home owners and buyers raced to submit their refinance and other loan applications before rates start going up

The unused square footage in your attic can be renovated to increase the livable space in your home. However, if the project isn’t done correctly, you can have a major problem on your hands.

My husband and I recently purchased our first rental property. Over the past few months, we’ve repaired and renovated the 1930s-era home, and are starting to look for tenants.And it turns out our

What is a reverse mortgage? Most home buyers applying for a loan know what a mortgage is, but a reverse mortgage may seem far less familiar. Maybe you've heard this mortgage term bandied about, and

Many thrifty homeowners would rather save a few bucks by taking on upgrades themselves (after a few hours binge-watching HGTV and YouTube tutorials, of course) than by calling in the professionals

A good basement renovation can provide extra living space and increase the value of your home, so for most homeowners, fixing it up is a no-brainer if they have the cash. But a botched remodel can

Have you ever wondered, "How much home insurance do I need?" Well, you might, especially when you're faced with a lengthy list of policy options from your insurance agent. Do you really need all

Welcome to your home tax deduction checklist! For homeowners, this kind of guidance is essential in the wake of all the (confusing) changes ushered in by the new tax plan, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

For the past few years, home sellers have been in the driver's seat. With hordes of buyers fighting over a very limited supply of properties, many homes sold in days—and landed their sellers a

Knowing how to clean a refrigerator is an essential part of home maintenance. Most people open their fridge multiple times a day, but you'd be surprised by how infrequently fridges actually get

The cost of owning a house includes more than just your monthly mortgage payment. Home improvements and repairs also take up a large amount of your budget, but they're essential to maintaining—and

Home sellers have a lot to worry about: Will anyone want to buy their property for its full asking price? How long will it take to find a buyer? Is it really worth the expense and trouble of staging

Mortgage rates skidded last week to the lowest level in a year.Freddie Mac said the 30-year benchmark mortgage rate fell 10 basis points to 4.31% in the week ending March 14.The 15-year fixed rate

There are a lot of steps to buying a house, and that takes time: It takes 50 days on average to just close on a home.How long does it take to buy a house? A lot depends on how much time you spend

Buy Your First Home in One Year: A Step-by-Step GuideThe ultimate timeline ensures the smoothest of transitions.A real yard. Closets bigger than your average microwave. The freedom to decorate

A bathroom remodel can add value to a home, but it also has the potential to be a huge headache. Why? There are many opportunities for missteps.“Bathrooms are often the hardest spaces to remodel

You may be wondering if there are tax deductions when selling a home. And the answer is: You bet!But there's also a new tax code—aka the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—causing quite a bit of confusion

A mortgage is probably the largest debt you’ll ever have, and paying it off is a significant achievement. But credit bureaus like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion might not be as thrilled.�

Chances are good you know all about  your credit score. Also called a FICO score, this magical number is a major factor in many financial transactions,

What is the difference between a foreclosure and a short sale? Foreclosures and short sales are both options for homeowners who fall behind on mortgage payments, but it's important to understand the

What is a short sale? Let's break it down. Say you're selling your home; however, the offer you get is so low, it won't cover the total amount you owe on your mortgage. But you need to unload it, so

What are the tax benefits of owning a home? Homeowners might be wondering this right around now as they prepare to file their taxes. Especially since the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—the most

Remember when you first moved in to your house? Ah, what a feeling.You felt like your home was made just for you: It fit your budget, your goals, and even your personality. In short, you fell in.

Here's what every first-time home buyer needs to know to dive into house hunting with confidence—and with as few curveballs as possible. Whether it's getting a mortgage, choosing a real estate

Few home sales fall through once they reach pending status, but that doesn't mean all parties don't have plenty of work to complete before closing day. Few moments are as exciting for both a home

Home buyers love to get the most space for their money. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 66% of millennials cite more living space as the No. 1 reason for buying a house. So if you’re

Of all the scary hazards that could exist in your home, electrocution is one that should not be taken lightly. There's always a risk of being shocked by some of those handy products you use in your

Those essential but utilitarian home items, such as electrical cords, radiators, and AC units, aren't exactly the prettiest room features. But you can't really rip them out—especially if you're a

Buying a house is one of the most exciting things you'll ever do in your life — and signing

One of the most confusing and misleading metrics in real estate is area — the "size" of a house.Like most aspects of owning or purchasing a house, measuring the square footage of a home is

In this day in age, working from home has become both increasingly popular and feasible. If you are looking to buy a new home with plans to have a home office, keep in mind some of these factors so

Not all home improvements are created equal. These will reward you the most when it comes time to sell.Your home is in the perfect location, came at the perfect price, with the perfect lot. (Yay

Every seller wants their home to stand out from the crowd, and that often means beefing it up with shiny new improvements before putting it on the market. But sometimes owners go overboard, and the

It's that time of year when truly scary stuff is happening outside our doors. Flu season is in full swing, a mystery polio-like illness has affected people in more than two dozen states, and we're

The blustery winter months are already here for some regions of the country, and for others the coldest part of the year is coming fast.Whether you expect to cross-country ski to work in the first

The best way to get potential buyers through the door and interested in your home is with a stellar online listing. Photos of the house and a description of the property are standard fare, but not

You've finally found your dream home, and it's actually in your budget. You can swing it—with cash to spare—but with competition fierce, why not go all in and offer way above asking? The seller

Why go out and blow a ton of money when you can stay in—and invite people over to your beautifully landscaped backyard? And why would you want to sign up for a crowded yoga class when you can get

Does your home's paint look dated and faded? Don't despair—there's another way to give your house a makeover without the drudgery of taping and rolling: Make your friends do it!A paint party is an

Mold is unsightly in appearance, unpleasant to smell, and sometimes unhealthy to humans.“While some types of home mold just look and smell bad, other types, such as black mold, can be very,�

Whether you’re self-employed or applying for an FHA or USDA loan, here’s the pre-approval paperwork you need.If you’re serious about buying a home, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a

There’s no such thing as a convenient time for something to break in your home. But winter is particularly risky because the loss of heat in your home or water damage can quickly escalate, which

Overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering your home? Then it's time to start small by tackling the smallest organizing project in your home: your bathroom.Bathrooms are clutter magnets. It makes

Rates for home loans slid again, even as the ongoing government shutdown poses a fresh threat for a wobbly housing market.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.45% in the January 10 week,

We’ve all been there—barely surviving the morning rush hour of making lunches, signing permission slips, and searching for matching socks. Then after a busy day at work and school comes the

Consider these options before making a decision that could leave you financially or legally strapped.Dividing your assets in a divorce settlement is tough, and there's no way to split a co-owned

Neighborhoods just aren't the same as they used to be.Gone are the days when everyone on your street knows you and waves when you pass one another by. One recent study by the City Observatory found

With winter roaring in at full speed, it's time to brush up on your furnace maintenance skills. After all, you wouldn't expect your car to run at top efficiency if you never change the oil, right

We won't sugarcoat it: The thought of doing home maintenance right now is pretty blah—especially with the holidays looming and weeks of gloomy winter days on the horizon. Who wants to do housework

'Tis the season for binge cleaning. We've got your step-by-step guide to preparing your house for holiday guests.When it comes to the holidays, it can be overwhelming to prepare your house for all

According to a 2016 study from the Wine Institute, the average American drinks nearly three gallons of wine each year, making the U.S. the largest wine-consuming nation per capita. With stats like

After children grow up and leave the nest, their parents may enjoy their newfound freedom for a while. But as those parents grow older, they and their adult kids may think about living close

There comes a time in many people’s lives—usually when the words “baby” or “school district” become a regular part of the vocabulary—when people flee the glamorous city to the charming

When you buy a product or service for your home, you want peace of mind that you're getting your hard-earned money's worth. If things happen (and they do happen), you want to know the company will

Want to learn how to buy a house for your grown child? Being able to help your grown kids become homeowners can really give them a leg up—particularly in this pricey housing market.“Between

You should never buy a new house before selling your old home ... at least, that’s the conventional wisdom. Because if you buy before you sell, you run the risk of owning two homes at once—and

If you own a home but are ready to move onto a bigger and better abode, one of the most important questions to ponder before you embark on this transition is this: Should you sell before you buy, or

Most potential home buyers wait to talk to

Every seller wants their home to stand out from the crowd, and that often means beefing it up with shiny new improvements before putting it on the market. But sometimes owners go overboard, and the

For those of us who live in cold-weather climates, the winter months are synonymous with hibernation mode. Who wants to go outside when you have to shovel 2 feet of snow just to see the sidewalk?But

How long does it take to improve your credit score? If you're hoping to buy a home, having a good credit score is key, since it helps you qualify for

If you're a homeowner, you've probably heard and read plenty of home improvement advice. It just kind of comes with the territory, right? In fact, the second you sign the mortgage, your fellow

We're entering the home stretch of 2018, when you can actually say, "See you next year!" to someone you'll see in just a few weeks. It's a time to look ahead, to make new plans, to achieve new.

Spring is generally the most popular time of year to sell a house, with hordes of buyers looking to move into a new place before the school year begins. But if you decide to sell your home during

Gone are the days when all you needed to get buyers to come take a look at your home was a "For Sale" sign out front and a bit of curb appeal. Long gone, actually. Ancient history!These days,

Cleaning the house is a must before guests arrive. Yet while we'll bet your countertops sparkle and your floors gleam, there are a few cleaning tasks that probably fell off your to-do list ... and

Old house smell: Those three dreaded words evoke something rather frightening and repellent to most homeowners. You know what we're talking about, right? It's that musty odor that creeps up and

The affluent Chicago suburb of Lake Forest seemingly has it all: sprawling estates, major corporate employers, country clubs, beaches on Lake Michigan, and two symphony orchestras. A few years ago,

Actuarial report reveals insurance fund is in good health, but Montgomery says premiums will standThe Federal Housing Administration released details on the health of its flagship Mutual Mortgage

“Why are you selling your house?” might seem like a perfectly innocent question from home buyers, but watch out—if you're the home seller they're asking, this is one of the diciest questions

When you host a party, there can be a disproportionate amount of stress over the condition of your bathroom. It's the place your guests will likely spend the least amount of time, but also the place

Nothing can put a damper on your holiday hosting schedule quite like a living room you're embarrassed to share with your guests. After all, it's hard to send out party invites when you cringe at the

Gray skies don’t have to mean a drab indoor life.As fall continues and the days become shorter, it’s too tempting to just hibernate until spring. But there is, indeed, joy to be found in the

So, the last box has finally been unpacked, or at least tucked away in the garage. The shelf paper has been laid, and the hardwood floors are gleaming.Now it’s time to throw open the doors, pour a

How long does it take to build credit history? If you ever plan to buy a house, establishing a track record of past payments is essential, because it proves

Insulating your attic might not be the sexiest home renovation project around, but it's probably one of the most practical home improvements you can make. Think about it: Every ounce of insulation

The DIY gurus make it look so easy. Home bloggers and HGTV hosts would have us believe that no kitchen project is out of reach for the average homeowner. But take heed: Even the most ambitious among

Need to know how to sell a home fast, even though the holidays are speedily approaching? If you're thinking of throwing up your hands and giving up hope until the new year, we're here to offer hope:

Need to know how to buy a home fast since you're hoping to be settled in before the holidays? Then the pressure's definitely on at this point! If you have any hope to host your Thanksgiving feast

More Americans became homeowners in the summer months, fresh evidence of a housing market that’s finding some stability after several rocky years.The national homeownership rate was 64.4% in the

Here are your options for starting from scratch, finding a builder and customizing your home.Sometimes, buying an existing home just won’t work. You may be a homebuyer who’s tired of competing

The composition of American households is evolving. In 2018, there are more single female homeowners than ever before in our history.Patricia Ramos, a single 63-year-old medical clerk in St.

Nevermind the heartfelt personal letters. For aspiring home buyers in today's cutthroat housing market, the secret to success is no secret at all: money, and lots of it.Buyers who successfully close

Your negotiating power and freedom to shop for a home may hinge on the information you provide to your mortgage lender.Preapproved vs. Prequalified: Which Is Best When You're House Hunting?Before

Home Buyers Need 7.2 Years to Save Down Payments – 1.5 Years More Than in 1988Buyers these days need 7.2 years to save a 20 percent down payment on the median valued home. That’s up from 5.7

How to keep your online orders from falling into thieves' hands.Few things can match the excitement and ease of receiving a package delivered to your front step.That is, until a stranger snags the

Newsflash: Moving stinks—and it can be even worse when you don't know how to get a moving estimate you can trust. This can lead to massive misunderstandings, when movers quote you one price before

What are some questions to ask a home inspector after he's finished the inspection? Because, let's face it, just staring at that hefty report highlighting every flaw in your future dream home can

Rates for home loans fell in tandem with the bond market, a welcome respite for the housing market after a recent run-up in home financing costs.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.85% in the

If you're house hunting, you're probably getting snowed with advice from well-meaning friends and family members on which neighborhoods are hot, how so-and-so is selling a place you have to see ...

Finding your dream home is an exciting adventure that, at times, can also feel all-consuming. On a good day, it's fun to swipe through listings and whiz through every open house in your area, but

What is a recast mortgage? While it sounds more like a fishing trip than a financing tool, it's actually where you pay off a lump sum of your principal (that's the money you owe), then have your

It’s easy and fun to plan home improvements, but not all projects have the same impact on your home’s value, so you must plan carefully. Here’s a summary of how to get the most bang for your

Have a short time horizon, do your homework and know your market.INVESTORS LOOKING FOR creative ways to maximize returns in a competitive, hot-selling real estate market may be interested in buying

Curious about how to buy a house in your 20s? If you're dubious it can be done, we get it. Between entry-level salaries, college loans, and the desire to just be young and have fun, 20-somethings

Where do home renovation myths start? Maybe in the aisles of your local hardware store or parking lot of the lumber yard. They get traded back and forth and whispered to people who may actually

How long does it take to refinance a mortgage? Refinancing should take anywhere from 30 to 45 days on average, although that can stretch to 60 days if you hit any snags along the way. In other:

What are some questions to ask a home inspector? If you're buying a house, you know that your home inspector will check it out and make sure it's in decent shape. So if you want to get to know your

A newly built house still needs maintenance to keep things from breaking down over time.Buying a new home from a builder means you won’t have to spend time getting used to any loose floorboards,

WASHINGTON—The number of U.S. existing homes going under contract declined in August for the fourth time in five months, reflecting what appears to be a broader slowdown in the housing market.The

Rates for home loans jumped along with yields in the broader bond market, taking financing costs to a recent high and raising fresh questions about the effect of another headwind on a housing market

You love your home, but spacewise, you’re bursting at the seams. Building an extension seems daunting, but moving out of your fabulous neighborhood is off the table. Hmm ... you do have that two

The science behind calculating the value of your home and what it means for your home's sale price.Getting ready to sell your house, looking to refinance or buying a new homeowners insurance�

You may need to adjust your mindset before walking into a house advertised as move-in ready.If you’re like many homebuyers in today’s market, you’re looking for a house that’s ready for you

Spring is overrated for planting perennials, shrubs and trees. Starting plants in autumn has advantages for both garden and gardenerFall is the best time to garden, and it’s about time we realized

Improve your soil and yard the organic way with a valuable garden booster that grows on treesIn fall my town holds leaf collection days, when homeowners (or their landscape services) blow or rake

Mistakes in the homebuying process are common, whether it's the first home you're buying or the fifth. One of the best ways to avoid taking a misstep when purchasing real estate is to understand the

You’ve found the perfect house, located right near that cool new shopping area and the best schools. It even has the right number of bathrooms! Swoon. It's time to sign the paperwork and move...

Study sheds light on factors influencing older homeownersFewer older homeowners are paying off their mortgages in retirement, and some are worried the trend may have a lasting impact on the

Although cost causes concern, demand is persistentAlthough homebuilders still fear increasing material costs, homebuilder confidence remained unchanged at 67 in September, according to the National

Rates for home loans rose to a six-week high as upbeat economic data and a bulging deficit spurred a yield-lifting bond sell-off and big questions gripped the housing market.The 30-year fixed-rate

Tight inventory is making house flipping more of a gamble, but that's not stopping ambitious investors from giving it a shot.Back in 2012, house flipping seemed like the perfect opportunity for a

What is debt-to-income ratio? This equation, comparing how much money you owe to the money you make, affects whether you can qualify for a mortgage—but let’s unpack this important term into

Price Cuts Becoming More Common, Especially at the High End About 14 percent of all listings across the U.S. had a price cut in June 2018, up from a recent low of 11.7 percent near the end of.

But there are reasons Boomers aren't moving out of their family homes.Baby Boomers are not ready to let go. The approximately 70 million Americans between 54 and 73 years old are not downsizing into

Help ensure your home's growth in value by making improvements that keep it on par with the best houses in the neighborhood.U.S. homeowners with mortgages have seen their home equity increase nearly

Recent sales of nearby homes can be a significant factor when determining the value of your house.Understanding your home’s value is an important part of knowing your net worth, what you’ll

The U.S. Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce announced that construction spending during July 2018 was estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.32 billion, 0.1% above the revised

To get your home sold, you have to tackle a rather long to-do list. Some of these tasks are well-known, and some are just good ol' common sense—like finding a real estate agent and spreading the

It should come as no surprise that before you sell your home, you've got to make it sparkle—after all, prospective buyers will be peeking in every cabinet, corner, and closet they can get into.But

The housing market has made little progress over the past year or so, and this summer, the wind officially seems to have gone out of its sails. One after another, the economic data reports have

How to price a home in a seller's market may be a question that's top of mind if you're listing your home. Much of the United States right now is a seller's market—which spells potential for major

If you're a first-time mortgage borrower, you might be asking yourself, "What is MIP?" Home buyers considering getting a loan from the Federal Housing Administration will find MIP, or mortgage

What is a mortgage note? Also known as a promissory note or deed of trust note, it's the basic loan contract given to you by your lender—the document you signed on the dotted line to make your

When buying a house is high on your priority list and you spot The One—the house that has everything you've ever dreamed of and more—it can be tempting to put pedal to the metal and close the

Fewer U.S. workers are moving around the country to seek new job opportunities, as changing family ties and more openings near home make people less willing to uproot their lives for work.About 3.5

Getting a mortgage is easy, right? You’ve seen the TV commercials and the billboard ads touting promises like, “Get approved for a mortgage today!” Well, sorry to break the news, but the

Transporting philodendrons and fiddle-leaf figs during a move can be tricky, so knowing how to ship plants is very useful.Few moving companies are willing to throw plants on the truck, especially

Mortgage delinquencies and foreclosure rates in the U.S. dropped to their lowest level for may in the past 12 years, according to the latest Loan Performance Insights report from CoreLogic, a

Interest rates for home loans ticked down as simmering trade tensions kept investors flocking to the safety of bonds, even as evidence mounts that more would-be home buyers may be giving up.The 30

Renovating a fixer-upper is not for the faint of heart. It takes money, hard work, and patience. But if you're able to pull off a successful transformation, you'll reap the benefits.“Fixing up a

The kitchen might be the heart of the home, but it can also unwittingly be the cause of your household stress. No, we're not talking about when you burn Monday night's dinner, or come home to a pile

For two years, Kelly Heskett searched real estate listings for a home big enough for her noisy, rambunctious family. She found an ideal one last month in nearby Norristown, PA: a three-bedroom, 2.5

If you want good neighbors, you’ll first have to become one yourself. Master these seven techniques, and even you (yes, you!) can win the approval of your entire neighborhood.1. Good neighbors

Picture this nightmare: You apply for a mortgage, but your application gets rejected. Suddenly, you’re hit with an overwhelming wave of embarrassment, shock, and horror. It’s like having your

More Americans became homeowners in the spring, and the number of renters decreased, adding to evidence that consumers still aspire to ownership despite ongoing housing market headwinds.The national

Rates for home loans jumped along with the broader bond market, setting up what one economist is calling a key test of the health of the housing market.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.54%

You’ve heard of buyer’s remorse; but without your market expertise and sales skills to back them up, sellers who choose to sell their home on their own just may experience “seller’s”

If you're wondering how to finance a house flip, you're not alone. Buying, renovating, then quickly reselling houses for profit can be a highly lucrative endeavor, yet finding a loan to fund such a

When Alyssa Sadler and her husband started thinking about buying a home on Long Island, NY, they focused on diverse communities in good school districts. As newlyweds, they planned on having

The phrase "single-family home" is something you'll often see when browsing through real estate listings. A single-family home might seem easy to define: It's a home for a single family, right? Eh,

With skyrocketing home prices and rising mortgage rates, many home buyers are frantically looking for ways to cut down on costs wherever they can. But in one area, it makes sense to ramp up,

The right of rescission is a little-known—but very valuable—part of the home loan process. This federally protected right can come into play when you are refinancing or taking out a home equity

Rates for home loans ticked down as the bond market moved sideways and the housing market made little headway.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.52% during the July 19 week, down one basis

With the number of rainy, mild months this region has, it’s unsurprising how many book lovers are drawn to Portland. After all, what’s better than curling up on a rainy Sunday morning with a cup

You did it. After years of saving, you mustered up a down payment, your credit was strong enough to secure a mortgage, and you were able to fight off the hordes of other buyers to close on a home of

No one knows how to move like professional movers. That's their job, after all. And that got us wondering: Once the day arrives where they have to pack up their own stuff and get from point A to

So you’re buying a newly constructed home, and it comes with a builder warranty. Awesome! That means that the builder will assume financial responsibility for anything that breaks, right? Well,

True or false: All real estate advice is good advice. (Hint: Well ... it depends.)Everyone has advice about the real estate market, but not all of that unsolicited information is true. So when it

Home shoppers usually want to see a property at its best. This means that sellers truck in staged furniture, slap on fresh paint, and repair potential problems for buyers.“When you walk into a

Do citronella candles work? With summer in full swing and mosquitoes flitting about you, you may have heard that citronella—an herbal oil found in lemongrass—can banish bugs naturally without

For first-time home buyers and seasoned homeowners alike, moving day is a major drag. Sure, it's exciting to start the next chapter of your life in a brand-new place, but the process of moving is

You'd be hard-pressed these days to find any homeowners who haven't considered renting out their home on Airbnb or a similar site—it's certainly tempting to make extra cash on a room that's just

Where does dust come from? You may be wondering that after wiping a fine layer off the coffee table you swear you just cleaned the day before. It doesn't matter if you live in the city or the burbs,

“Renovating my house was a piece of cake," said no one ever. Indeed, even seemingly simple projects, like installing a screen door, staining hardwood floors, or refacing kitchen cabinets, can

Do you need one? Do they pocket the whole commission? Let’s set the facts straight.Buyers and sellers often enter the market with misconceptions about real estate agents — how we work, how the

Have you ever wondered how to find a handyman? The trick is finding someone trustworthy with a proven track record of success. There are plenty of websites and apps that make it a snap to recruit

With the 4th of July next week and summer in full swing, it’s time we talk about one of summer’s most controversial topics: Where to get the best ice cream. Portland is anything but shy when it

"Is there a lien on my property?" If this is something you're wondering about, then you'll definitely want to find out, pronto. You might think you already know about any liens on a property you

Happy "housiversary"! Um, say what? Yep, #Housiversary is a thing on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and beyond.The reason: Much like a marriage, the day you close the deal and officially "own" your

Painting is one of the cheapest and easiest home makeovers out there—no knocking down walls, no pricy appliances. Just you and a brush stand between you and a whole new look!And yet: While

Want to create wealth through homeownership? Build equity.Home equity is the percentage of your home’s value that you own, and it’s key to building wealth through homeownership. Let’s take a

You’ve found the perfect new home and finally unpacked and settled in. But now it’s summer, which means you have trips planned that will take you out of town for a few days. If you are still new

As baby boomers age, many are planning to downsize into smaller homes. But preparing to live in a smaller space brings up a challenge: how to get rid of all the stuff you’ve accumulated through

Moving for work? Make sure you know exactly how much help you can expect from your employer.If your company has asked you to move to a new city or state for work, you’re not alone. Each year,

Pondering how to paint brick, or even if you can paint brick? Well, for the most part it's entirely doable—and can give your old fireplace or brick house an easy face-lift. But you'll want to plan

The hottest remodeling jobs of the year aren't all about installing new kitchen cabinets or countertops, putting an eye-catching backsplash above the stove, or adding a sleek yet functional kitchen

I know, one more thing to add to your to-do list when you’re moving into a new house. That’s the last thing you need. Unfortunately disaster tends to strike at inconvenient times, so why not

A lot can happen between an initial offer and closing day. Meet the counteroffer ...Buying a home is rarely as simple as making an offer and paying that offer out. Negotiations can go back and forth

Get those rainy day funds in order — you're going to need them.You’re excited because you just found the perfect home. The neighborhood is great, the house is charming and the price is right.But

When all is said and done, buying a home is exciting—and a milestone to be celebrated. But if you expect each step of the process to be a thrill ride, we're here to tell you you're sorely.

 Now that you have your neighborhood priority list sorted, it’s time to start exploring! Here are some tips as you do your research on neighborhoods.  Get online Google won’t hold

Continues fight against predatory lendingGinnie Mae recently announced new requirements for its Department of Veterans Affairsre finance loans in order to protect service members from predatory

Green building techniques can save homeowners money and make the environment a cleaner place. But agents must learn how to translate confusing industry terms into listing descriptions that sell

If you’re moving to an entirely new area, trying to figure out which neighborhood to search for a home in can feel a bit overwhelming. Not to worry, we’re here to help you find the perfect one.

On Thursday, President Donald Trump signed legislation rolling back some of the lending restrictions enacted in response to the housing boom and bust. While the new law doesn’t entirely do away

Which real estate documents should you keep after buying a home? After all, you don't want to have to file all of it if you don't have to; but you also don't want to chuck something crucial.Your

What is a "due on sale" clause in a mortgage contract? This common phrase, found in most conventional home loan paperwork, means that when a property is sold, the entire balance of the loan comes.

Many house hunters are under the mistaken impression that new construction is flawless, a perception that may be challenging to wrestle with if your seller’s home is surrounded by brand-new

If you have to move with a little one, the mere thought of it might seem preposterously overwhelming. Well we’re here to tell you- you will survive! But here’s a few tips to make sure you keep

Homes are expensive, and getting even more so every day. (Also, water is wet and the sky is blue!) Making an offer over asking price—sometimes by absurd amounts—has become a harrowing norm for

Rule No. 1 of the best week off at home: Plan ahead.You don’t need to stay in a hotel and play tourist to have a proper staycation. Look no further than your own home for a staycay dreams are made

A beautiful, well-manicured lawn is a source of great pride for many homeowners. Maintaining a healthy lawn takes work and hours of TLC, including regular watering, cutting, and laying down

When it comes to do-it-yourself renovation jobs, hardwood installation can seem deceptively easy. All you need are a nail gun, kneepads, a steady hand, and a whole lot of wood.Right?But laying

Take care of your home's hot-weather needs now, and you'll have more time for fun in the sun.Summer will be here before you know it, and you know what that means: Heat, hornets and yard work.If’

Want more house for your money? Flexibility is in this season.The sun is high and hot—and so is the competition for buying a home.Thinking about buying a home this summer? The sunniest time of

If you need a break from the Portland brunch craze but aren’t sure what to do for Mother's’ Day this year, don’t you worry. Here are a few ideas that will hopefully allow you to avoid the

Old house versus new house: If you're shopping for a place to live, this may be one of your primary decisions. Is it better to buy brand-new? Or do homes, like wine, get better with time? It turns

When standup comedian Nathan Brannon moved into his newly purchased home in rural Washington state, it seemed the joke was on him: The previous owner had left the pegboard on the garage wall, but

baloon111/iStockOnce home buyers and sellers have negotiated their way to an offer and have a closing date on the books, you'd think they're totally in the clear, right? Well ... not necessarily

asiseeit/iStockIn the ideal home-buying scenario, attending open houses and pinpointing the perfect place is a breeze. But in a seller's market, finding a home is no small feat, which is why it's

If you’ve reached the homeowners stage, you most likely have a general idea of your finances. Making the transition from budgeting as a renter and budgeting to save for a home to being a full

asiseeit/iStockHow much below asking price should you offer on a house? Or is it something you shouldn't try at all? The not-so-simple answer: It all depends on the market you're in and other

You love your pets. They are part of the family, after all. However, when moving to a new home it can be easy to forget that uprooting pets from their usual space can be a disorienting and upsetting

iStockIs a mortgage transfer possible—where you hand off a home loan from one person to another? The answer is usually no. When you sell your home, the buyers have to get their own mortgage and

Hero Images/Getty ImagesWant to know the secret of how to meet your neighbors after you've moved into a new home? It's this: Stop waiting for people to swing by with an apple pie. These days you

Moving is typically a time of stress and insanity, so who has time to cook? I mean, your pans are packed, your cookbooks are who knows where, and none of your kitchen staples have been restocked.

iStockAh, the all-cash offer. If you're a home buyer with this ace up your sleeve, you probably have a swagger in your step as you tour homes, looking for the perfect property. Home sellers swoon

iStockSelling your home? Then you've likely had that rude awakening where a real estate agent tours your home and breaks some tough news: Your house needs work before it goes on the market.For

iStockChances are good you've probably imagined—at some time or another—what it would be like to give up your daily grind, uproot, and move to the country. Buying a home in the country would

Design Pics/Getty ImagesHow long does a furnace last and what exactly does it do for your home? The furnace is one of the most important appliances in your home, as it keeps you and your loved ones

As we settle into the spring season, gardening is on the mind. If you are new to the rainy and mild Portland climate, or maybe you just have a yard for the first time, here are some beginner’s

iStockEverybody loves a bargain. But getting one handed to you, gift-wrapped, in this housing market? Fat chance.Limited inventory has boosted prices, and in many cities, sellers have the big end of

iStockWhat is a closing disclosure form? Put simply, it's a form outlining the terms and costs of your mortgage—and one of the most important pieces of paperwork to check before you close on a.

iStockBuying a home is stressful. Buying a home out of state? That's downright scary.We probably don't have to tell you why: You won't typically have the luxury of being able to spend hours touring

Welcome to Portland. Grab a mimosa and get ready to brunch. It’s what we do here- holidays included. Check out this list of brunch spots to help you do Easter the Portland way. Portland

iStockIn my yearlong house hunt, I've toured countless homes, and that first visit is a lot like a first date. It can be going great, right up until you spot your personal deal killer—like a pack

Photo by Garage Guru Enlightened Storage/HouzzNeed some home staging ideas for you garage? Yup, this grease-covered dumping ground that serves as a "home" for your car (at least

iStockWhat is a seller’s market? Simply put, it's a market where there are more home buyers than sellers. Based on basic laws of supply and demand, this means sellers have the upper hand: They

iStockDriven by frustrated buyers who rolled over from last year and record-breaking lows in housing inventory, the 2018 spring buying season is expected to be one of the most competitive in years�

If your 2018 resolution was to start the buying/selling process this year, consider this your friendly starting point for reaching your goal and take spring cleaning to a whole new level. Whether

With spring selling season arriving, take the time now to polish your home to perfection.1. Let the sun in. Make any room look brighter with clean blinds and windows. Mix a solution of one part

Justin Sullivan/Getty ImagesSpring is here — and with it comes the most popular time of year to shop for a home. But if prospective home buyers don’t prepare properly, they could be in for an

Largest generation isn’t fueling home buying marketMillennials are the largest living generation, however, according to Freddie Mac’s March Insight report, they are falling short of dominating

iStockWelcome to the ultimate moving checklist—a list of all the things you should do before moving into your new home.Let's face it: With all the excitement of new digs, it's easy to forget some

You have one chance at a great first impression — knock their socks off with listing photos that shine.Your bags are packed, you’re ready to move and the last thing you want to do is follow your

iStockHave a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC), or thinking of getting one? Homeowners often tap their home equity for some quick cash, using their property as collateral, but

Peopleimages/iStockIf you’re like us, just the thought of moving is enough to make you cringe. Heck, between sorting through all your stuff, purging items, researching moving companies, and

A growing number of reports are pointing out the concerns surrounding diminishing affordability, however a new report from Trulia says housing is actually more affordable now than it was 40 years.

Want to do something special for St. Patrick’s Day but new to the area and not sure where to start? Here are our top suggestions based on what you might be looking for.Culture: In the mood for

Renovating your house is an adventure, one that can easily go off the rails. There are a mind-boggling number of wrong turns homeowners can take, from going over budget, to hiring a shady,

gerenme/iStockHome buyers have heard it all before: There aren't enough homes on the market, prices are rising rapidly, and builders aren't putting up enough new abodes. Sorry, buyers. It's not

Dean Mitchell/iStockWorking at home has multiple perks—not the least of which is that short commute to your home office in your PJs. (Yes, it’s a cliché, and yes, it happens.) But while you

The numbers: Pending-home sales fell 4.7% to 104.6 in January, the National Association of Realtors said Wednesday. That’s the lowest reading since October 2014, and the biggest monthly decline

Maya23K/iStockIf you sold your home at a good price, you’d be thrilled, right? But what if, a year or two later, you check in on your old home by idly punching your former address into realtor.

These landscape solutions prevent puddling and flooding-and manage to look good, tooRiver of RocksPhoto By Karen BussoliniYou can turn landscaping for water drainage solutions into features that

This week you may have noticed the white stuff falling from the sky. While not overly common in the Portland area, snow does happen once or twice a year. When schools get canceled and you can’t

Buyers who aren't paying cash for a house aren't necessarily out of luck. Here's how you can gain an edge over cash buyers.Buyers making a cash offer on a house are active in many markets, and they

It’s mid February and we’re starting to get a little stir crazy. We are dreaming of the warm sunshine and outdoor adventures waiting for us a few months away. To assist in dreaming up those

Owning a home is more than just a commitment—it's a full-blooded relationship. And, much like the relationship you have with your spouse, kids, or others you choose to surround yourself with, this

Real estate investor Maureen Wiener usually goes it alone when buying, renovating, and reselling homes in northern New Jersey.“It’s about control,"  says Wiener, of Franklin Lakes, NJ, who

Everyone has a different idea of what makes a perfect Valentine's Day. Luckily the Portland metro area has something for everyone.For the couple that wants a dose of romance:For an evening of,

Kenishirotie/iStockHome sellers had it good at the end of last year, racking up profits they hadn't seen in more than a decade, a new report finds.In the last quarter of 2017, sellers pocketed an

If you’re new to the PDX region, it might be nice to have a frame of reference for certain locations in the great PNW. That way you can keep up with your co-workers stories about their weekend

Alice S. Hall/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty ImagesBlanche Devereaux was ahead of her time.A growing number of adults are living with other adults with whom they are not romantically involved,

IMAGE: LEO ZAROSINKSIMother-in-law studio. Man shack. Rentable pied-à-terre. Granny flat. Whatever one calls the accessory dwelling unit, the twee bungalettes are blooming across town—wedged

Ugly paint colors? Treadmill in the kitchen? Creepy family portraits in every room? Don't let it bug you.In 15 years of real estate, I can honestly say that I’ve seen it all. Toilet seats up in

Renovate your concept of flipping a home by teaming up with a real estate agent.Flipping houses isn’t just about visualizing how to change a home; it’s also about being able to actually sell the

Sharing your plans with neighbors in person is an effective way to address any concerns head on.Phase one of any major construction project? Get the neighbors on your side. Here’s how.If you’re

After living in the same home for a while, it's amazing what you can get used to. A creaky floorboard, for instance. A chipped tile that you've been meaning to replace but haven't gotten around to.

If you want to know how to sell a house in 2018, face the facts: It's a new year, and that brings a new breed of home buyers to your front door. Knowing who these buyers are—as well as what they

Nearly 30% of Americans don’t know their neighbor’s first name, according to a 2017 survey by home security company Safe Home. That’s a shame! Especially since being friendly with those on

Home maintenance and ownership go hand in hand, so you're no doubt aware that there's plenty you should be doing (hello, gutter cleaning!). Sorry to lengthen your to-do list, but we thought you

It is no longer just millennials propelling interest in walkable communities. According to a new report from the National Association of Realtors®, members of the silent or greatest generation,

Figuring out when to plunge into the real estate market can be quite intimidating—especially when prices are high, choices are limited, and history urges restraint."We’ve seen two or three years

What is "house poor"? This phrase describes home buyers who've purchased property they can't easily afford—and are now paying the price, as it were.“If you can’t spend your income the way you

Ah, January. The time of new beginnings, new resolutions, and, in most of the country, a seemingly endless stretch of cold and gloom. We get it: You just want to hibernate, catch up on;

The procuring cause helps real estate agents and buyers figure out who will receive the commission on a house sale. It typically comes into play when a buyer purchases a house he saw with two

Moving is hard, moving cross-country even harder. Moving cross-country during the dead of winter? That, friends, is a feat I hope you never have to endure. Because I did, and I barely survived.OK,

After all these years of paying down your mortgage, spending thousands on maintenance, and pouring buckets of blood, sweat, and cash into your home, you’re finally ready to move on and sell.

The winter season brings more foot traffic, which can be risky on a home—holiday parties, family gatherings and even open houses in the winter can bring tears and marks on the floors. How do you

First time homebuyer demand surged to its highest level in 17 years during the third quarter of 2017, according to the First-Time Homebuyer Market Report from Genworth Mortgage Insurance, an

If you are new to Portland this holiday season, you may not know all that we have to offer in the way of events and holiday cheer. Here are a few of our traditions you should definitely know about

If you sell your house and make a profit, you must pay capital gains tax—so does the same rule apply when you inherit a house from a deceased relative? The truth is that inheriting property can be

Portland Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (PMAR) This Advisory summarizes the recently implemented rules for Portland’s Home Energy Score program (hereinafter, “the Program”). This

If you're wondering how to sell a house to a family member, first, a bit of congratulations are in order. You've found a buyer! The most strenuous part of the home-selling process is already over.

How long does it take to build a house? It's a question often posed by people looking to buy an idyllic piece of land so they can construct their dream home from the ground up. If this describes

Holiday decorating can be as simple as dusting off your flower vases, unrolling a spool of burlap and polishing your silver.Hold your holiday decor horses! Before you purchase gobs of tinsel and

So you live in the Portland metro area and the season of holiday shopping is upon us. If you don’t feel like braving the crowded big name stores and chaos of shopping center parking lots, here are

So you've finished the last of those turkey leftovers and just about thrown in the towel on your workout regimen until some undefined time after the first of the year. (We get it— the holiday

We’re almost there: the long-awaited home stretch of 2017. And quite a year it's been! Already, we can’t help imagining what developments next year might bring to the wild world of U.S. real

Once you’ve decided it’s time to buy your own home, saving for that 20% down payment is step one toward doing it. Instead of waiting years, here are six ways to help you save up for that down

The holidays are officially here—and while  merrymaking and gift shopping are likely top of mind, you may have to keep some of those celebratory urges in check if you're planning to sell your

"What happens if I have a lien on my house?" is a question you might face when it comes time to sell your place. Basically, it means that before this transaction can go through, you'll have to deal

But increase could be temporaryThe construction of new homes increased in October to meet the rising homebuyer demand, according to the latest report from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S.

How do the holidays sneak up on us every year? Whether you are simply too busy to cook, can’t get away to see family, or just need a year off from preparing food, here a few favorite local places

Ever wonder how much some people paid for a house, but were too shy to ask them outright? Then it might be tempting to delve into real estate stalking—the simple and fun practice where you type in

Planning on buying in the off-season? Arm yourself with strategies from the pros.Rainy open houses and icy walkways make shopping for a home in winter less of a thrill than in the busy spring and

If you've tapped the lender well twice and hold two mortgages on one house, you might think selling that house will be a challenge. After all, having two mortgages doesn't mean you owe more on the

Fresh trends spotted at High Point Market Fall 2017: florals, dramatic colors and textures, too!Twice a year, true interior design magic happens when the industry gathers in North Carolina for High

If you’re a first-time home buyer, you might think you’re not ready to purchase a house. Perhaps you’re concerned about your job situation, your previous credit history, or your high monthly

Sleep! If you are getting ready to sell your home, buy a home, or simply gearing up for the holiday season, that extra hour of sleep could be exactly what you need. Proper sleep is a proven way to

Changes announced by HUD could change the calculus of whether these loans make sense for certain borrowersSeniors need to get a clearer picture of the pros and cons of getting a reverse mortgage on

When you're selling your home, you might imagine you hold all the cards. And you do—sort of. But it's easy to become overconfident in a seller's market. If  you don't do a reality check,

With soaring rental prices, extremely low mortgage rates, and a stronger economy, it seems that just about everyone wants to buy a home these days. But high home prices are keeping many aspiring

Leaves have changed, the rain has started, the heaters have clicked on- it is officially fall and the season of warm beverages has begun! True, coffee shops are on about every other corner these,

You've trusted your real estate agent's advice throughout the home-buying process, but should you also rely on her to find a home inspector, too? Your agent likely has a list of thorough and

To a new homeowner, painting rooms might seem like the ultimate dream. After years of renting white walls that weren't yours to alter even a smidge, you finally get to slather your home in whichever

In spite of all the house hunters out there clamoring for homes to buy, there won't be a surge in the number of newly constructed abodes hitting the market anytime soon.Builders received fewer

For a majority of people, buying your first home is financially daunting. Beyond the paperwork and negotiating, there’s that big mortgage looming. Taking on such a substantial financial

Oregon City: Fantasy TrailIf you are in the mood for Halloween lights, decorations, and spooky settings, this is an ideal option for date night or family fun. Open every night between now and

Baby boomers say they want to move to a home that has a multicar garage and that’s near their grandchildren, according to the latest Del Webb Baby Boomer Survey, sponsored by national home builder

It's human nature for folks to want to sneak a peek at their neighbor's open house—even if they're not truly home seekers looking to buy. Trust us, stopping by to grab a cookie and gawk is

Tom Hignite, owner of Miracle HomeBuilders in suburban Milwaukee, is a firm believer in the power of music—so much that he cranks up the volume at open houses and tours.But not too loud. And it

Halloween isn't just an opportunity to gorge on all things frightful or filled with sugar. It's also a chance for home sellers to scare up a buyer!Because these days, home sellers need as much

“I love sharing a bathroom with my whole family,” said no homeowner ever. Learn how to add a bathroom and keep the peace.f your home was built before 1970, you likely have one bathroom for your

Of the many fees associated with buying a house, one that's often overlooked is the transaction fee. While it's not as pricey as the commission, the transaction fee is a notable chunk of change that

Trying to buy a home with bad credit is hard. But what about trying to buy a home with no credit at all?There's a name for these people: "credit invisibles." It means they don't have a credit report

If you’re a millennial who’d like to buy a house before Beyoncé’s twins graduate from high school, then listen up.The folks at Apartment List recently crunched the numbers surrounding our

If you moved right at the end of summer, you are probably just now starting to catch your breath. Between inspections, closing costs, moving boxes, address changes, and school starting, how does one

Nothing can turn the American dream of owning a home into a nightmare like bad neighbors. They might keep you up with raging late-night parties, or call the cops with a noise complaint when all you

Ah, October. Temperatures are dropping, the days are growing shorter, and the pumpkin spice latte is, in a word, inescapable. But before you go hog wild with the Halloween decorations and settle in

Through some twist of fate, maybe you've found your own buyer without the help of your real estate agent. And now you finally have an offer in hand from a friend of a friend (of a friend?).,

After a seller accepts a buyer's offer to purchase a property, it's time to make it official, in the form of a real estate contract. This document is one of the most important steps in the home

The seller's agent is typically the person who draws up a purchase agreement, but what happens if the home is for sale by owner (FSBO) and the seller isn't represented by a real estate agent at all?

Those thinking about buying a home have probably heard all the tales of woe from other buyers out there: Sticker shock, getting outbid on the home of their dreams, or not being able to find a

For years, security experts have been fearing "The Big One." Not terrorist incidents, bombs, or hurricanes—their warnings have been centered on cyberattacks. And now, one of the largest and

Moving expenses can quickly spiral if you don't watch out. And given that moving is already expensive ($1,170 for an in-state move on average, $5,630 for farther distances), it really pays to learn

Making way for your baby big girl’s or boy’s bed means it’s time for the crib to go (sob). And now that your baby’s older, the nursery could use an update, too. But transitioning to an older

Buying a house isn't like buying a Slim Jim at the corner bodega. Infinitely more money, thought, and prep work go into acquiring real estate—and given that it's not a purchase you make often, it

Welcome to your new fixer-upper.  Whether it’s your first home or first investment property, you likely have your work cut out for you. Here are some of the skillsets that are best to have

allenmorrisphoto/iStockThe vestiges of summer are fast slipping away, along with all those lazy afternoons and evenings spent lounging outside. But before you hermetically seal yourself indoors for

Fixer-uppers can be enticing for several reasons: lower sales price, potential for profitable resale, opportunity to remodel the house into your dream home, etc. However, taking on a fixer rarely

You know you need to get your ducks in a row before looking at homes, but does that include securing a pre-approval letter? The truth is, getting pre-approved can actually improve your chances of

You know your pets are genuine members of the family when you start to think about renovating your house specifically to accommodate their needs. Of course you want your cat, dog, or any critter

For most of the country, September signals the end of summer's dog days and a return to fuzzy sweaters, chilly evenings, and, of course, pumpkin spice everything (this is America, after all).But

There's a certain point in the lifecycle of renting where you say to yourself: I just can't do this anymore. Maybe it's the upstairs neighbors, who relentlessly stomp dance moves across their

Is a mortgage pre-approval letter necessary to make an offer on a house? The short answer is no. However, if you want your offer to be taken seriously and to stand out from any competing bids, this

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued a warning to seniors this week, cautioning them that taking out a reverse mortgage in order to delay claiming Social Security benefits could be a

One couple calls their second-floor living room the “healing chambers.” Another homeowner calls it the “feasting room.” Others refer to “pajama lounges.”Regardless of the name,,

Whether a first time buyer or a seasoned investor, buying a home can be a hectic and stressful time, especially in a strong seller’s market. See these tips for a little extra help on how to

Having a place to call your own—whether you’re going to be there for four years or forever—is an essential part of the American dream. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers plenty of

Buying a home—especially if it’s your first—can be a lot like losing weight in the sense that people end up doing, well, some pretty dumb stuff in the process. But while desperate dieters

Follow along as we drink through Portland’s old-fashioned milkshakes in search of our favorites. For this story, that means milkshakes spun with hand-scooped ice cream (or soft serve) in a silver

JoybirdWhen you think of what's hot in interior design right now, do your dad's wingback chairs and grandma's ornate chandeliers come to mind? Well, maybe they should. A new study by Joybird, a

aabsys/iStock"Should I buy a fixer-upper?" If this thought has crossed your mind, we don't blame you. Many home buyers fantasize about purchasing a run-down shack and transforming it into a palace

Even it a healthy seller’s market, selling one’s home can be a stressful time. There’s a great deal to coordinate and prepare for, both emotionally and logistically, and going into such an

A conventional mortgage is one underwritten by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, which means that they create the rules and regulations associated with these products. Most conventional loans require

If you need a mortgage to buy a home, your lender will require a home appraisal—where a professional estimates the value of your place to make sure it's at least enough to cover the mortgage.

iStockThe galloping real estate market is a scary and exhilarating thing.On the one hand, as home prices soar, how on earth will you ever buy one? On the other, assuming you do pull off the biggest

Whether you’re staying at home or traveling to the path of totality, the total solar eclipse calls for some advance planning and preparation. As an estimated 1 million people crowd into a narrow

When homes get multiple offers just hours after being listed, you know you’re in a challenging market. Here’s how you can stay competitive.It's getting harder to find starter homes for sale. But

Selling a home is stressful. Buying a home is stressful. Doing both? There should be a new word for that.But somehow people do it, every day in every part of the country and in every market

aydinmutlu/iStockThe earnest money deposit is an important part of the home buying process. It tells the seller you're a committed buyer, and it helps fund your down payment.Without earnest money,

If home financing is new to you, you might have a few questions. Why are there so many different kinds? Why are some not always accepted by the sellers? Who qualifies for what types of financing?

What is underwriting? You hear it all the time when it comes to the home loan process: underwriting. It’s a process that seems to takes forever, and most people that are in the middle of one are

To the uninitiated, "Freddie Mac" might sound like a cartoon rodent or perhaps a character in a gangster musical -- neither of whom you would probably want to own your mortgage. In reality, Freddie

Private mortgage insurance, or PMI: Just the basicsIf your down payment on a home is less than 20%, you will have to pay for mortgage insurance, [unless you’re qualified for a VA loan.]What is PMI

Less rigorous lending standards and lower down-payment requirements make FHA loans popular with mortgage borrowers.What is an FHA loan?An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing

They are even more complicated than they used to be.You can't get money from a credible financial institution without an appraisal, so, they're pretty important.When you think about buying a house,

Demand has been sizzling for Veterans Affairs mortgages, better known as VA loans. These mortgages do not always require a down payment and are available to military veterans and active military

Here are a few things that you should know before moving to Portland; told by locals themselves.If you’re thinking about moving to Portland, you’re probably aware of the amount of biking done

From battening down the hatches for a storm to hiring a diver for your home inspection, you're likely in for a few surprises.While a huge part of “Sleepless in Seattle’s” appeal could be

Learn how you can spot the clues that could lead to a lower purchase price, more inclusions, and other perks.   As a buyer, any piece of insider information you pick up can provide a

Check out four hot looks for next year (plus the three trends that are over). Zillow Digs announced the top home design trends for 2017, along with the three soon-to-be forgotten fads from.

What's on the runway for home-building fashions? Experts predict 5 big "ins." In the world of apparel fashion, trends go in and out in a matter of months. For interior design, trends may change

Foreclosure rate continues to fall Mortgage delinquency rates, including loans in serious delinquency and even foreclosure inventory, fell at the start of 2017, according to the latest monthly

You can start with pennies in a jar, but you’ll probably need to embrace some different strategies if you want to reach your down payment savings goal. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of

Can you tell an arch from an arbor, from a trellis, from a pergola?   Trellises, arches, arbors, and pergolas: These four garden structures are often confused.After all, each can be

Preparation is key to successfully buying a house in a hot market.When you’re looking for a home in a seller’s market, you need a plan in place to avoid making mistakes. The real estate

Your housing needs will probably change as you age. Embrace the differences with this targeted advice. What you need as a 20-something homebuyer doesn't always match up when you're in your 30s

Looking to woo and win potential buyers? The little things make all the difference. Planning to sell your house this year? Don’t be overwhelmed by all the details involved in preparing it to

Are you interested in buying a new home but aren’t sure whether it’s a good time? The market is affected by many factors outside your control, including fluctuating interest rates and housing

Downsizing can be difficult for clients to accept. Their memories and belongings may be unable to fit into a smaller home. Many are unsure how to proceed and need your help. As their real estate

If a property isn’t garnering interest, there is a problem. Very rarely is this a result of uninterested buyers. Instead, a lack of interest in a property is often the result of a poorly priced

Whether it's a last-minute private visit or an open house for anyone who stops by, homes need to be seen to sell. Showing a property is essential to the home-selling process. Every market works

A low appraisal can happen for any number of reasons, but it doesn’t have to be a deal breaker. It’s a nightmare situation: You’ve spent months searching for your dream house, finally get

Whether you are moving your family to a new home or your children have since grown up and moved out, there are no doubt a great deal of memories that made your house home for so many years. These

The neighbor's house might not qualify...What do you think of when you hear the word “mansion”? Do visions of huge manor houses with acres of lush green lawn, sweeping staircases, and grand

Chilling out this summer will be a breeze with these tips for getting the most out of your air conditioner and fans.Summer may be lazy and hazy, but in many areas of the country, it’s also a time

Focus on these tips to help buyers choose your house instead of your neighbor’s!Airto Zamorano’s real estate game plan was solid: do a serious deep cleaning of his home every single time he had

Thinking about replacing your floors? Especially if you have carpet, the choice seems clear: Hardwood floors are preferred by home buyers and renters across the United States.But consider carefully

Why are millennials suddenly moving to Portland? See what is driving its mass migration and maybe you’ll be convinced to move there too.Portland is experiencing growing pains, but its eccentric

When you've got to buy a house from across the country, start with a winning strategy.Searching for a house locally is not without its difficulties. Add hundreds or even thousands of miles to

A lack of homes on the market coupled with soaring real estate prices is leading more homeowners to make the most of their current abodes, particularly the kitchens. And why not? It's often

If you're serious about buying a home, understanding your finances is a crucial first step.When deciding to purchase a home, the list of things to consider can be daunting. While you might be