Home Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Becoming a homeowner in Texas is one of the most exciting and potentially stressful things you can do. There’s a lot to learn and a lot to do, which can leave quite a bit of room for mistakes. The home buying process is an emotional experience that is personal for each buyer. Just remember that […]
Buying a Home? You’ll Need Insurance.
It’s overwhelming to think about the numerous types of insurance available during the home buying process. You already have so much to do between packing, scheduling movers, and closing on your home. Do you really have to jump through more hoops? Unfortunately, yes. No sensible car owner would drive without insurance, so it figures that […]
What’s the Difference Between Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval?
Unfortunately, without proper preparation, many buyers get lulled into the mistaken notion that if a lender pre-qualifies them for a mortgage, it means that they have been pre-approved for the home loan. There’s a world of difference between these two terms. If you’ve ever been confused by the two, this will explain how they differ, […]
Buying a House Without a Spouse
Getting married has several financial consequences; it can raise or lower your taxes. It can alter the types of retirement accounts you’re eligible for. It can affect your insurance rates. And yes, being married can also impact a mortgage. While there are many things to take into consideration when you purchase a home, you may […]
Freshen Up Your Home With Paint
Paint is one of the most abundant and most versatile tools anyone can have in their redecorating toolbox. It can make a dark dingy room suddenly seem light and airy or transform a cramped area into one that appears spacious and bright. While walls, of course, are your biggest canvas they don’t need to be […]
Qualifying as a First-Time Home Buyer in Texas
Did you know that the definition of a first-time buyer isn’t restricted to people purchasing their first property ever? According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, it also includes the following: A person who has not owned a residence for at least 3 years. A single parent who previously co-owned a home while […]
15 Top Summertime Lawn and Garden Tips
Summer heat creates a new set of tasks and challenges for your lawn and garden care. Take note of these 15 tips — and your outdoor spaces will thrive. You’ll have a lovely lawn and garden all summer that will be ready for the next phase of alterations in the fall. Summertime brings a spike […]
Summertime Fireplace Maintenance Tips
Summertime in Texas is a great time to do deep-down house and yard cleaning: gardening, cleaning windows, outdoor paint touch-ups, etc. This is the time of year to get your house, yard, and outbuildings checked out for any wintertime damage, have those things repaired, and get them looking their best. One item that you never […]
Ins and Outs of a VA Loan
What are VA Loans? A VA Loan is a segment of the GI Bill was that signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide veterans with a federally guaranteed home loan with no down payment. It’s one of the ways we thank our veterans for their service. The VA guarantees a maximum of […]
Owning a Home Pays at Tax Time
Buying a home is a big undertaking, but did you know that your new home purchase might help you enjoy a world of tax breaks? If you’re a new homeowner, you should know that there are several tax deductions available, some of which can put a fair amount of money back in your pocket. Here […]