Coldwell Banker American Homes Blog
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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...
30
Must-Have Home Features? It's Your Call
An outdoor kitchen. Double sinks in the master bath. A wrap-around porch. Solar panels. There are just so many things we want our new home to have.
However, when shopping for our dream home, it's essential to steer the dream a little bit more toward reality. No home will have every single feature you desire, so before you set out on the search, sit down and think hard.
Also think long-term. While certain features may not matter to you, they may weigh heavily in determining your home's resale value. According to a recent report by Kiplinger, there are seven features that will help sell a home faster: a laundry room; exterior lighting; energy efficient appliances and windows; a patio; hardwoo...
22
Buying a Home? Know your Musts
A fenced-in yard. Double sinks. A wrap-around porch. An open floor plan. Solar panels. There are just so many things we want our new home to have.
However, when shopping for our dream home, it's essential to steer the dream a little bit more toward reality. No home will have every single feature you desire, so before you set out on the search, sit down, think hard and narrow down your list of must-haves.
Must-haves are usually rooted in practicality – a classic case of needs vs. wants. Some important musts, therefore, often involve:
- The number of bedrooms and/or potential to turn a room into an additional bedroom – are you planning on children? Need space for an in-law to move in?
- The master bedroom – is it big enough for your king bed and does it include a master bath...
15
Real Estate Madness: How to Navigate Your Way to Your Future Home
Searching for a home should not be taken lightly. Keep in mind that approximately one out of four homeowners is unhappy with their homes—don't join that group! Increase your chances of real estate happiness with the following tips.
Use Your Smartphone
One issue that can get in the way of appreciating a possible house is if you cannot see how renovations or furniture might look in the home. There are several smartphone applications that can help you by using a 3D image, taken by you. This will allow you to place furniture or renovations in the space to see how it may change the property—a great way to see if the house is really meant for you.
Hire Help
You may think that finding the right house is as simple as perusing real estate listings online or jumping in a car and visiting homes w...