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19
5 things to discuss with your significant other before purchasing a home
(BPT) - In a relationship, you count on your significant other to be there with you through the good and the bad. They are your best friend, your confident and your closest ally. And you count on being able to have important conversations with them as well.
One of those important conversations every couple should have focuses on money and each person's respective financial goals, especially if you are planning to purchase a home. However, 33 percent of married or partnered adults have difficulty discussing money with their significant other, according to a Wells Fargo survey. "I think money is one of those topics most couples put off discussing because it can be sensitive," says Arlene Maloney, senior v...
15
7 Household Items to Toss, Now
The snows may not be fully melted, but the first signs of spring are closing in-and with them comes the impulse to clean and de-clutter in the annual rite we call spring cleaning.
But while some items get tossed without a second thought, consumer blogger Jacob Hurwith urges us to dig deeper, suggesting 10 things we really need to get rid of:
Old Shoes– It may be comforting to see those 27 pairs of shoes in your closet, but deep down you know that at least half of them will never be worn again. They have no purpose or sentimental value. Pitch them.
Unmatched and Outgrown Clothing – If there are odd gloves or socks cluttering the drawers, give up hope that mates will appear. Pitch them, and give your kids' outgrown clothes to charity or to a family with younger kids.
Wire Coat Hangers– If you've amassed a collection from the dry cleaners, take them back to...
11
Home Buyer Checklist: What to Look for in an Open House
Windows – Look specifically if they are facing the right direction to let sunlight in, and whether they open to a nice view (versus directly toward another neighbor's window).
Under the Sink Cabinets – Check for possible signs of water damage due to leaky plumbing.
Electrical Outlets – Make sure there are enough outlets for the appliances and other electronics you'll be using....9
5 Ways to Take Advantage of a Seller's Market
Market conditions as they stand make now the ideal time to sell your home. Even so, to sell quickly and for the best price, it's important to position your property favorably. Some steps that can help:
1. Go beyond buyer expectations… Most house hunters expect pre-owned homes to have at least some issues. Exceed this expectation by fixing major flaws ahead of listing your home on the market.
2. …but don't overspend. The fact is, many upgrades just don't recoup their cost at resale. Your REALTOR® can help you determine the most worthwhile repairs for your market.
3. Draw your timeline, but remember… If there's no turnaround pressure on the sale of your home, take some time to get your home in tip-top shape.
4. …the waiting game can backfire. It's unwise to wait for home values to rise before listing your...
30
5 Money-Wise Tips for Your Tax Refund
Tax refunds present an opportunity to better your financial health. Unfortunately, many refund recipients don't take advantage of it.
"A tax refund often feels like 'free' money, and many people use the funds to splurge on expensive items they wouldn't otherwise purchase," says Mike Sullivan, chief education officer for Take Charge America, a national non-profit credit counseling agency. "However, a refund presents a unique opportunity to use the money to improve your family's financial wellbeing now and in the long term."
If you receive a refund this year, consider using it in one (or all!) of the following ways:
1. Pay Off Debt – When you receive your refund, resist the urge to spend it on a shopping spree, fancy dinner or pricey vacation. Instead, use your refund to pay down credit card ba...