Category: real estate blog

Heres everything you need to know about butcher block countertops… The Basics There are three different types of butcher block counters to consider: Edge grain is made by stacking planks together so the side of each piece is seen End grain is built using square-shaped pieces that give it a grid-like appearance. Face grain is…

Financially, theres more to buying a home than the purchase price”sometimes much more. After the down payment, and once your closing costs and monthly mortgage payments are added up, it can be easy to forget some of the costly and hidden costs of owning a home. Take these added charges into consideration: Property TaxesProperty taxes…

You may have heard that wallpaper is making a comeback. But have you heard about wallpapered ceilings? Technically, this trend is called ceiling paper, and it can transform a room in the same way papered walls can. Highlight a space. Do you have a home office tucked to one side of your family room? How…

Here are a few tips on how to stage your home during the holidays… Keep It Simple Try going for an understated feel thats festive and inviting without being too personalized. Holiday Curb Appeal Greeting guests with some holiday cheer at your front door is always encouraged. A simple lighting arrangement and wreath will do…

Youve just moved into your starter home”congratulations! But spare cash is limited, and you are eager to show your new home off. Start with a few cosmetic changes, advise the money editors at Bankrate.com, who offer five easy upgrade projects that can help spruce up a tired living space for a few hundred dollars or…

Published with permission from RISMedia.

If you’re environmentally aware, you’re likely already doing several things at home to help the planet. Recycling, using less water and fuel and making smart purchasing choices can all help reduce your carbon footprint. Composting is a fantastic way to help out mama earth, and with many convenient options, it’s no longer just for those…

Here are four tips for curating shelves that are stylish and creative. Form and Function If you dont have built-ins, there are tons of functional options that are easy to install, from floating shelves to open box shelves. Show Off Books Choose a handful of books that are visually pleasing or mean the most to…

Paying less than 20 percent on a down payment on a house will likely require buying private mortgage insurance by the lender. The insurance, called PMI for short, is used to reimburse the bank if you default on the loan. It isnt too expensive”usually between 0.5 and 1 percent of the entire loan amount paid…

If you’ve owned a home for several years and made responsible financial decisions, you may have built a significant amount of equity. Home equity is the difference between the current market value of your house and the amount you still owe on the mortgage. If the value is greater than the debt, you have positive…