New homes are a bit different than their ‘existing’ counterparts. Everything in them is so shiny and new and it’s much easier to overlook structural defects and other problems in the dwellings. Making it particularly difficult is the fact that...more >>

Vacuum regularly with upholstery attachment tools, the broad throated one to dislodge dust from flat surfaces including cushions and the crevice tool to reach the inner corners. Turn over loose seat and back cushions and throw pillows every few weeks...more >>

Homes for sale usually look great which makes it very hard to use a critical eye when looking at them. Buyers often lose sight of the fact that there might be structural problems or defects that they will have to...more >>

JJust because the finish on a piece of furniture is worn and weathered does not mean that you should strip it. Don’t do it if you think the furniture is custom-made or a potential antique. When the varnish on a...more >>

You will probably hear the three letters “MLS” a lot as you go about your home search. Created and managed by real estate professionals, the MLS is a proprietary database that serves as a gathering point for all property listings...more >>

The next tier consists of those with a credit score ranging from 700 to 719. If your scores were in this range on that day then the lenders would quote you a slightly higher interest rate which is 5.88 percent....more >>

Make sure that you have everything figured out before starting your home search - both on the financing side and in terms of your own wants and needs. Below is a checklist you can use as a guide for your...more >>

Window shades come in a wide variety of options, ranging from no-nonsense roller models to romantic balloon shades. All shades provide varying degrees of privacy and light control, pleated shades are the most energy-efficient. Bottom-up shades allow you to adjust...more >>

During your venture you will probably hear this term used a lot. It stands for principal, interest, taxes and insurance. Every loan includes principal and interest payments and those labeled PITI also include taxes and insurance. Property taxes and homeowners...more >>

When a property owner agrees to payment of a portion of a home’s purchase price over time, with the debt to the seller registered on the title as a mortgage, it’s known as seller financing, a vendor take-back mortgage or...more >>