Getting a mortgage is not the same as it was just a few years ago. The process is harder, more thorough and often longer. However, you are trying to obtain the American dream of owning a piece of eart...

There has never been a better time to become a first time homebuyer. Housing prices have bottomed out and appear to be stabilizing. Most experts are predicting that we will see home prices begin to in...

Financial institutions have become more rigorous in their mortgage application process. The mortgage application and approval process can seem demanding an onerous. Reduce your stress by having patien...

Getting a mortgage is not the same as it was just a few years ago. The process is harder, more thorough and often longer. However, you are trying to obtain the American dream of owning a piece of eart...

Enjoying your new vacation home is a lot more fun than getting the financing. Make sure you are prepared to run the gauntlet: clean-up any inaccurate credit, put down as much down payment as possible,...

A newly renovated home can be beautiful thing. Good planning on how you are going to finance the costs of these improvements and who will help you do this will make this journey much more pleasant. A ...

A reverse mortgage is a great resource to help some that need that additional source of income. Reviewing all of your options and understanding what this type of loan means for you, will help you make...

A fixed-rate mortgage generally costs a bit more per month during the first few years of your mortgage, but you know what your payment will be for the term of your loan – for instance, if you are lo...

Securing a loan when purchasing a home is just part of the process, and you need to know what options you have so that you can have the best interest rate and the lowest monthly mortgage payment possi...

Just like most things in life, the answer to this question is nuanced and it starts with “it depends.” It depends on how long you’ll keep the loan, how much the point will cost you, and how long...

Shopping for a mortgage and mortgage rate can be a daunting process. Remember that buying a home and getting a mortgage is the biggest financial decision and investment that most of us will make in ou...

Selling your house as a short sale can be a very overwhelming task even 3 years after. But in order to make it less stressful, and not ruin your credit for a long period of time, there are definitely ...

If you’ve served in the military, the VA home loan guarantee program can provide great benefits that are unavailable to civilians and those using a conventional mortgage product. Get in touch with a...

Determining how much you can afford to borrow combines the efforts of both the buyer and the lender. Borrowers must do their part to provide accurate and current information to their lender, but they ...

America’s economic vitality relies on the small business owner and the self-employed workforce. It’s unfortunate that these same individuals often face higher hurdles when obtaining mortgages for ...

We have all seen or known individuals who have built their own rental real estate portfolios and complemented their other investment strategies nicely through ownership and management of real estate. ...

More than anything ask your friends, family, and coworkers who they recommend to help with mortgage financing. Interview several of them and listen to your gut instincts. Ask yourself, is this a solid...

Choosing the mortgage structure that is best for you in the very common situation where less than a 20 percent down payment is requires an understanding of both your needs and the lender’s requireme...

Buying a distressed property that is a short sale, foreclosure, or bank owned can be a good investment and an affordable way to own your own home, but it is “buyer beware”. You should protect you...

There are many ins and outs to purchasing a co-op in New York City. While the process may seem a bit daunting at first, do not fear. Remember that the cooperative purchase is the norm in NYC, not the ...

Your river property will bring much excitement, inspiration and fun to your life. Relying on the expertise of a professional who specializes in waterfront property will make the process effortless and...

Your lake house will be a source of relaxation, inspiration and fun. Relying on the expertise of a professional who specializes in lake property will make the process effortless and satisfying. This i...

Whether for a better way of life or out of necessity, your farm will become a significant part of your life. Relying on the expertise of a real estate professional specializing in farm property will m...

In order to mitigate threats and capitalize on opportunities it is essential to have a well-grounded investment strategy. This includes the collaboration of complimentary disciplines and fastidious at...

Buying a home is an exciting endeavor, but the process can be tedious, time-consuming, exhausting, and an emotional rollercoaster for some. Working with a trusted professional can help ensure you have...

Buying a home is a complex process requiring expertise from a number of professionals. By focusing on what you want in your home and allowing these professionals to do their jobs, you can achieve the ...

There’s no need to get stressed out when you’re trying to figure out how much to offer on your dream house. Take the emotions out of the equation and instead focus on the data and the math. Workin...

Whether your land will be used for recreation, development, investment or just a home, you’ll find many diverse parcels to choose from. Remember you can always change the way a house looks but you c...

While there are many rivers and streams throughout the Rocky Mountain West, the supply of available fishing properties in any given price range is very limited. Obviously private water is the preferre...

The key thing to remember is to seek out professional advice when considering purchasing a vacation home in another part of the country. Don’t underestimate the value and resource of a professional ...

When purchasing your first home together it is in your best interest to have a licensed real estate agent to help you. Their job is to give you advice, recommendations for the services of other profes...

Home inspections are a valuable tool for the homebuyer and should be a routine part of the homebuying process. However, don’t overstate what they are able to do.There is risk in buying something bui...

Purchasing a foreclosure can be a great investment whether you are purchasing one for your personal residence or as an income property, but a word to the wise, be patient with the process. New guideli...

Owning a condominium is not for everyone, but it does fit the lifestyle of many people today. Whether you’re considering a condo or a home, you need to be sure that you know what it is that you are ...

Be smart, but not overly smart. You do not want to think yourself out of a great home while at the same time you want to understand your market and the data within it. In the end, you have one simple ...

Owning and living in your own home is the American Dream. But increasing mortgage rates along bidding wars on the purchase of a home is creating emotional and financial stress not seen since the real ...

When building your dream home, the best advice is to be prepared for anything. There will be bumps along the way but as long as you address them in a timely and effective manner, the process should be...

Just remember that accepting the co-op for what it is is vital to being accepted yourself. Being honest, patient, informed, and respectful demonstrates that you are the kind of neighbor and shareholde...

Buying a townhouse in New York City can be a rewarding experience, both emotionally and financially. Given today’s price points this opportunity is available to a select few. If you happen to be one...

Co-op ownership comes with its benefits and also with possible limitations. If you like a particular co-op and can handle the work it will take to get in, you have a great experience in store for you....

Buying a fixer-upper is not without its challenges. The most important tool for the job is preparation. With good planning, clear vision, and a reliable team to help guide you, your fixer-upper can be...

There is a lot to consider when buying a single family home in New York City. Costs vary greatly and this market segment continues to become more valuable. So if you have the desire and the budget jum...

When starting out as a family, your first home and the community you reside is where many family firsts will occur - your child’s first words, first steps, first day at school. So many memories and ...

If you want to be in the middle of it all, have access to some of the best views, best moderns homes, and best transportation, Downtown is where it’s at. Like with any other investment. however, be ...

There is a reason why the real estate market in NYC is so competitive for the buyer. Historically, NYC has held it’s value and has weathered many a financial crisis to come back even stronger. $1 mi...

Whether you are buying one building to rent out or a whole plaza, commercial real estate can be a rewarding investment. Following the advice above can put you in the right place to make money on your ...

For the majority of buyers, a home represents their biggest lifetime purchase, so they should use every tool at their disposal to ensure they are getting the very best home at the optimal price. Consu...

Living in an HOA neighborhood comes with certain rules and restrictions, but if you understand them, life will be better and easier for you and your neighbors. Do find ways to work with and improve yo...

Hiring a contractor who is someone you don’t know can be a very stressful situation. You can minimize this stress by having a definitive plan for your project and having a clear process on how you a...

Painting the exterior of your home can save you money and be a very rewarding experience, especially if it is done the right way. There is an overabundance of things to think about when doing a projec...

Water conservation is an important green issue and eco-friendly plumbing solutions are generally a convenient, non-intrusive way to upgrade your home. After installation, the money that can be saved i...

Low maintenance composite decking is a wonderful thing as it saves you time, money and backbreaking labor. Carefully assess how you will use your deck and thoroughly research your options and installa...

It might seem like a lot of work, but regular maintenance will always be better than a larger issue later. While it is impossible to avoid all plumbing issues, many are preventable with a little extra...

If you make sure your home isn’t as welcoming to rats and mice as it is to you, they’ll be turning tail in no time....

By properly preparing for your home renovation, you can avoid stress, work with individuals with whom you are comfortable, and stick close to your budget. This will not only result in an enjoyable exp...

There are many factors to consider when hiring an interior designer, from referrals to budget, from letter of agreement to in-home meetings/presentations. By using these important tips, you’ll be on...

There are a lot of steps you can take, as well as some you should avoid, in order to properly control weeds and keep your property healthy and attractive. Know your enemy and contact a lawn care profe...

The most important thing to consider when preparing lawns for fall and winter is the element of time. As long as each task is completed at the proper time of year and as instructed, avoiding snow mold...

With these tips, you can make smart, budget-friendly enhancements to your home without spending a fortune....

Rodents can transmit diseases such as food poisoning-pathogens when food or food surfaces are contaminated with infected rodent droppings or urine. Rodents can also cause significant amounts of damage...

Ants are the number one nuisance pest in America. They can be very effective at infesting homes, contaminating food and damaging structures if left untreated. Eliminating ways for ants to enter the ho...

Follow these tips to prevent roaches from endangering your family’s health and home. Stay on the lookout for any signs of a cockroach infestation or any factors in your home that could draw them in....

Keep your mower blades sharp and don’t mow too short. Also, remember to fertilize and properly water your lawn. By implementing the above steps, you can enjoy a healthy lawn all year round....

Making your home energy efficient can keep money in your pocket. It may also make you eligible for tax breaks. And because of this, energy efficient improvements are a highly sought after measure for ...

Organizing your home can seem like a vast undertaking but when you tackle the project a little at a time, it won’t seem as stressful. Make sure you put important documents in a safe place and all yo...

Since room color makes a strong impact on its occupants, it’s important to do some research about appropriate color choices before choosing to paint. Consider your location when establishing an over...

Ant infestations can be controlled with different strategies, including ant baits and contact killers. Strategies to prevent further infestations include sanitation and exclusion efforts. It is import...

Termites can cause significant damage to your property. It is vital to proof your home against termite infestations and detect termites early. A pest professional can help homeowner’s offer treatmen...

Asbestos is a carcinogen that can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis and other serious respiratory ailments. The most dangerous asbestos fibers are too small to be visible. Once inhaled, they...

Spring cleaning should not just be seen as a silly tradition. It should be something that everyone takes part in. Not only will living in a clean and organized environment make you more productive, th...

A well-planned fruit garden will enhance your home landscape and life. It will provide a beautiful, dual-purpose landscape for you to be proud of for years to come. Dig in and savor the “fruits of y...

Growing your own vegetables can be a very satisfying and rewarding hobby. Building a garden requires some basic knowledge, none of which take a lot of time to master, and the rewards are many. Vegetab...

Through decluttering and a few easy updates, your home will be a delight to come home to and welcome in the new season. Put a little spring in your step and plan your vision today!...

Taking these steps can transform your unused space into one of your favorite places in the house! The days of the cold, dark basement are over. Bring on the man caves, home gyms, kids’ playrooms, ho...

Planning a garden can be a daunting task. Start by using these quick and easy tips to get started....

Any garden or landscape is a living and constantly changing thing. It takes work and attention, but this is the challenge and excitement of the pursuit. It also creates opportunities for new ideas and...

Hiring a painter to give your home the pick-me-up it needs doesn’t have to be another chore for your list. Asking good questions, doing thorough background research, offering detailed expectations o...

The kitchen is the heart and soul of the home. Be sure to keep these tips in mind to affordably transform your kitchen into a multi-functional space for your whole family....

The best way to find the right painting contractor for your home projects is to check their references. Get a home address, phone number and email address, if possible. References that were satisfied ...

Warm days are ideal for tackling home update projects. Hiring outside help can be daunting, particularly when scammers are looking for easy marks. Knowing what to expect from workers coming and going ...

The benefits of starting your own organic vegetable garden in your yard are plentiful. Not only are you saving money on your groceries, but you’re impacting the greater good of the environment as we...

Whether you decide to go with a gas fire pit or a wood one, or grey stones versus tan stones, building a fire pit will be an excellent new gathering space for your friends and family, as well as a gre...

By taking the time to plan ahead and take into account your available space and type of area you live in, you will be able to get a great start on a beautiful garden. Remember, factors like climate an...

While rain is often the preferred (and most cost-effective) method for keeping your lawn lush and green year-round, other options are more dependable. Installing an irrigation system to water your gra...

The next time you’re looking into hiring a landscaper, make sure you do your homework and find the right one by asking all the right questions, checking out their references, and work with someone y...

Having parents or elders age forces conversations between parents and children around elder’s wishes on housing, care and end of life directives. These can be uncomfortable conversations but are nec...

Many of these suggestions are common themes in successful communication between adults. Mutual respect and courtesy is a must, and developing new skills, along with practice, is a constant. The reward...

This can be a tough time in your life, and your parents won’t make it any easier on you if you don’t know how to approach them about it. Enlist the help of a qualified elder care manager and don�...

Finding long term care for your loved ones is not something to be taken lightly. There are many options and it’s important to know the wishes of your loved ones and to be informed about the differen...

Talking with aging family members about difficult life issues is not easy. But mapping out the conversation ahead of time and avoiding major pitfalls can make important family discussions more positiv...

Reaching out for love and support can be a sure-fire way of sustaining yourself as a caregiver and the well-being of your loved one. When done mindfully, respecting your own needs and preferences, as ...

As a caregiver or family member of a depressed older person, make it your responsibility to get involved. You can make a significant difference and remove or lessen the holiday blues for seniors suffe...

After conversing with a loved one’s doctor or care provider and determining what type of care center is most appropriate, a family can explore options within their community that fits their budget a...

Together we can work toward making a difference in the overall well-being and preservation of dignity of the elders in our communities, who, indeed, are deserving of our care and respect. Help your el...

Caring for aging or sick parents can bring rewards, but it also comes with challenges. Take the steps to assist your parents in getting their legal documents in order before caregiving becomes require...

Move while you are the one in charge. If you put in the work up front, during the planning and sorting phase, your move will be much smoother. Let experienced movers, such as Senior Move Managers, ass...

Depression is the most common mental illness affecting seniors, and the signs should not be ignored. In fact, the elderly have the highest rate of suicide out of all age groups. While today’s treatm...

Responding to the needs of aging parents is a difficult and emotional process for everyone. Adult children need to communicate clearly and directly with the parent while being respectful and caring. A...

Mom and dad have made the decision to stay at home instead of moving to a assisted living facility. You know that in order for them to be safe and comfortable they are going to need assistance. Home C...

Alzheimer’s affects more than 5 million Americans, and the disease has an impact on the entire family. While adult children become caregivers for aging parents, young children and teens need support...

Aging does not necessarily mean a person's driving days are over. However, it is vital to ensure the safety of your loved ones on the road. This begins with learning more about how to detect problems,...

Having parents age and fail is unsettling emotionally and disruptive in many other ways. Caregiving can be extremely taxing and very tricky to navigate, but it can be deeply rewarding. A major key to ...

Keeping these simple guidelines in mind will not only help improve the relationship you have with your parents, but it will also ease the stress that invariably accompanies changing roles. We all want...

There was once a hospice patient who was the stereotypical Italian mama, who cooked all day, everyday, and for whom every problem could be solved by lasagna or tiramisu. As her breast cancer advanced ...

Elderly hospital patients have special medical, emotional and legal interests that must be protected. Often they are too weak, ill or confused to speak up for themselves. Family members, partners or c...

It is vital to help your aging parent hear and communicate better to enhance your family's overall quality of life. Improving communication will reduce frustration and emotional fatigue for everyone i...

Again, separation is more than taking a break from your marriage and living apart from your spouse.  It is an important time to plan and reflect on you and your family’s legal, financial, and emoti...

A divorce involves one of the most emotionally trying times in your life. You should be as prepared as possible to act in your own best interests....

 Life has a way of throwing us curve balls and how we adjust to them can be the difference between a happy and not so happy life. No one heads into a marriage expecting to get divorced, but when it h...

When it comes to finding a divorce attorney, be thorough in your research. Take into account credentials as well as personal chemistry. Be clear on all the fees upfront. Make sure you are in agreement...

A woman in the midst of a divorce proceeding once said “Marriage is about love. Divorce is about money.” This is so true. Alimony is one of the key money matters that must be negotiated and settle...

Co-parenting is more than simply co-scheduling. Children of divorced parents can and do thrive on the same consistent rules and constructive communication as children of married couples. Taking the ti...

Most men and women do not realize that they put their children in the middle of their disputes. It’s not something done intentionally, but you need to remember that your anger is not your child’s ...

Being a good dad means both talking the talk and walking the walk. Everyone from the ex to the kids to the guardian to teachers, coaches, neighbors, doctors and shrinks is watching. Show them all what...

The issues facing high net worth divorcing families are often different from the issues faced by lower/middle income divorcing families. As such, they must be planned for and approached in a manner be...

The most important thing to remember is that child support is about the needs of the children. They need support in a number of ways, financially for sure, but also emotionally by not being made a lig...

As in all things, if you get educated about what’s before you and go into it expecting the worst, the chances of it being worse than you expected are about even. Get a lawyer you can get along with,...

It is understandable that through divorce and separation many emotions will arise between both parties. However remember that the legal system is not a tool that you can use to gain revenge against th...

Divorcing couples must know where all the assets are. Neither side has the right to hide money and every right to use all the means necessary to discover where the assets are and what their value is. ...

Divorce mediation is one way to settle issues relating to your divorce. Before selecting this process, it is important that you fully understand what a mediator can and cannot do, that you obtain lega...

Mediation is an effective, relatively inexpensive way to settle divorces. However, you have to be prepared, be in control of your emotions, and be realistic about the results. Good legal and financial...

Shared parenting and custody are often confused terms. As you can see, they are separate concepts. Shared parenting is a likely outcome for a situation where you and your ex are no longer together. An...

Making the decision to hire an attorney to represent you, as opposed to choosing to represent yourself, may be one of the most important decisions you will ever make. This decision can have an impact ...

Collaborative divorce is an alternative to a drawn out court battle. The process might result in an easier transition for the parties and their children. But collaborative divorce is not for everyone....

Divorce can be devastating, especially when children are involved. Picking an attorney you like and trust and who has experience and knowledge will make a difficult time of life better for all parties...

Annulment is different from divorce, but still requires legal representation and a court case. Be sure your circumstances meet the requirements for an annulment, and not a divorce, before you proceed ...

Judges generally do not take kindly to those who consistently flout their orders. However, because the possible penalties for violating a court order include incarceration, it is important that your e...