Posts from January 2017
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27
Home Issues That May Secretly Cost You Hundreds
It's no secret that being a homeowner is a financial commitment. However, there may be places in your home that are secretly upping your expenses. Read on for a rundown of those secret money leaks, courtesy of Gentec Services.
Air leaks. One of the biggest energy drains on a home is air leakage, which means the conditioned air in your home exits through cracks and leaks and is replaced by unconditioned air from the outside. While windows are the top culprit, air can come in anywhere your heating and cooling system runs or any place that the exterior structure of the home has been joined together. Leaks can be sealed with caulk, weather stripping or spray foam insulation.
Insulation. Pay special attention to the attic, basement or crawlspace, and all exterior walls. Since heating and cooling are...
20
Buying a Home in Winter? What to Look for
While spring and early summer rein as peek home-shopping seasons, there's no good reason why you can't find that perfect house in the middle of winter, too. In fact, you might even get a good deal from homeowners who are anxious to sell as soon as possible and don't want to wait for the spring thaw.
Looking at homes in winter, however, requires a different strategy, so consider the following before you start your search:
- Winter weather may prevent you from getting a good sense of a home's yard, particularly, if it's covered in snow. Make sure you're informed as to the exact size of the plot, patios and decks, and ask your agent to show you pictures of the yard and home's exterior in the spring and summer, if there aren't any posted online.
- Ditto for the landscaping. If gardens are a high priority for you, find out which p...
12
The New Normal? Mortgage Rates Sink Again
Mortgage rates again sunk this week after topping out at the end of 2016, with the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaging 4.12 percent with an average 0.5 point, according to Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®). The trend, now in its second week, marks a new normal for rates, which rose above 4 percent in a nine-week streak following the election.
"After absorbing a mixed December jobs report, the 10-year Treasury yield fell eight basis points," says Sean Becketti, Freddie Mac chief economist. "The 30-year mortgage rate moved in tandem with Treasury yields falling eight basis points to 4.12 percent, the second decline since the presidential election. The December jobs report showed 156,000 jobs added, barely meeting many experts...
5
4 Ways to Jumpstart Your Credit Score
Improving your credit score can sometimes be a lengthy project. But, consumer advisor Brian Acton tells Yahoo Finance, if you are planning to apply for a mortgage or other major loan, there are five strategies you can use that can help bump up your credit score in as little as 30 days:
Become an authorized user – You can piggyback off someone else's good credit by having them add you as an authorized user to an account they've had for some time. As an authorized user, you can benefit from this responsibly managed account once it is added to your credit profile. (Understand, however, that if you use the account irresponsibly, both your credit scores will suffer.)
Request a credit limit increase – If you have a timely payment history with your credit card issuer, the issuer will likely grant...
1
What to Do With Your Holiday Tree
After Christmas has passed and the presents have been opened, many wonder what to do with their holiday tree. Luckily, many counties have services to dispose of or recycle your old tree. Below is a breakdown.
Curbside pick-up. Many cities and counties schedule a curb-side tree pickup around two weeks after christmas. Typically these trees are then turned into mulch, but feel free to call your city planning office and inquire. Before you drag your tree to the curb, be sure to remove any and all decorations.
Non-profits. There may be non-profits in your area that will pick up your old tree for a small fee. Call around to find the best option.
Drop off. Many stores and centers take old trees at no charge. Many Home Depot locations take drop offs. Call around to find the best fit.
Whether you're dropping off or having your tree scooped up, there are some...