Are you thinking about purchasing a home in the future? Here are three important steps to take now to get yourself ready. Supercharge your savings. You'll need to save money for your down payment and closing costs and you'll need to have some... (Read More)

Congratulations! You are using your VA loan benefit to buy a home. Once you are under contract on a home, the lender will tell you that the home needs to be appraised. People usually have many questions about appraisals. The following are some of... (Read More)

When buying a home, you have the option of selecting a fixed-rate home loan or one with an adjustable rate. ARMs are attractive to some home buyers today because the introductory rates — and monthly payments — often are lower than with... (Read More)

You found a home that's in the right neighborhood and an easy commute to work. The only problem: It's listed for sale in 'as-is' condition. What does that mean? A home that's being offered for sale in 'as-is' condition means that the owner is... (Read More)

Mortgage rates are on the move. When is the best time to "lock" your mortgage rate? And for how long should your lock be effective? If you're buying or building a home, you'll have to answer both of these questions. Unfortunately, there's not a... (Read More)

Do you have a fire extinguisher? If you don't, it's time to add it to your shopping list. Every homeowner should have one on each floor or area of their home and know how to use it. Fire extinguishers are life savers. Make sure to purchase one... (Read More)

It won’t be long before we will feel the chill of winter approaching. Is your home ready? The good news is that winterizing your home doesn't have to be costly or time consuming. With a free afternoon (or two!) and a little elbow grease, here are... (Read More)

Part of the moving process is changing your address so that all of your bank statements, bills, magazines and other mail goes to your new home. The quickest and easiest way to do that is to hop online and go to the U.S. Postal Service website... (Read More)

You found a home your family loves. But you're not the only one who wants it. What's the best way to make an offer on a home that other buyers are vying for as well? Here are some ways to put your best foot forward: Start off with your best... (Read More)