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Your Guide To Aging In Place Home Modifications
If you've had to watch your parents transition into assisted living, you may have no desire to call such a place home. You are not alone. According to the Aging in Place Housing Survey conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), more than 90 percent of seniors want to remain in their home. Many survey respondents said that they would rather use nursing home funds towards purchasing a home that is suited for aging in place or making accessible home modifications. … [Read More...]
Best Tax Deductible Home Improvements for Homeowners
Before delving into tax-deductible home improvements, it's important to understand that these tax deductions won't be applied immediately. In most cases, homeowners can only benefit, tax-wise, from their home renovations later, when they sell their home. It's important for homeowners to keep receipts for their improvements, though so they have proof of the improvements they made, even if it's years later when they sell their residence. Typical Renovations/ Home Improvements That Can Yield … [Read More...]
Pros and Cons of Adjustable Rate Mortgages
When you are in the market for a new home, you may be faced with numerous options for financing your home. One of the choices you will have to make is whether to apply for a fixed or adjustable rate mortgage. In some cases, an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) may be your best option, but keep in mind, they are not the answer for everyone. Adjustable rate mortgages can be risky for some borrowers and it's important to understand both the pros and cons. When To Consider Adjustable Rate Mortgages … [Read More...]
Should You Pay Discount Points When You Get Your Mortgage?
One of the challenges you will face when deciding how much money to put down on your new home is whether to put down a larger down payment or to take a bit of money from your down payment and use it to buy "discount points" to lower your interest rate. There are pros and cons to doing both and each borrowers situation will be different so it's important to understand which option is best for your individual situation. Some factors you should consider include: Cost of borrowing - generally … [Read More...]
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 16th, 2018
Last week's economic reports included readings on inflation, the minutes of the most recent meeting of the Fed's Federal Open Market Committee and weekly reports on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims. The University of Michigan released its Consumer Sentiment Index for April. Inflation Grows, Fed Indicates Future Rate Hikes Likely The minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee Meeting held March 20 and 21 indicate Fed policymakers are likely to increase the target federal funds … [Read More...]
The Humble Vegetable Garden: A Fun, Health-conscious Home Project for the Entire Family
Whether you are hunting for a project that will pry the kids away from their phones or you just want a head start on the spring, few home projects are as rewarding as a vegetable garden. Invest a few hours in planting today, some maintenance throughout the year and soon you'll be enjoying some delicious, home-grown veggies. Ready? Let's get started! Selecting The Right Spot For Your Garden The first decision you will need to make is where your garden will live. If you are new to gardening, you … [Read More...]
Look Beyond The Interest Rate: What Else Matters When Choosing A Mortgage Lender?
Most consumers securing a mortgage plan to remain in that loan for 30 years. During that time, the borrower maintains a relationship with the loan servicer or lender. Most often, home buyers do not think twice about who the mortgage lender is, but rather focus on the interest rates offered. Look beyond this information. Borrowers need to take into consideration much more before they sign on the dotted line. Here's what to look for specifically: Choosing a Specialized Lender Can Help Home buyers … [Read More...]
How The 2018 Tax Changes Can Affect Your Mortgage
When the chatter was at its peak on the 2018 tax law changes being proposed, one of the big areas of concern for homeowners was the elimination of the mortgage interest deduction. Right behind that issue was a similar treatment with regards to property tax deductions. As the rumors swirled and Congress moved, many feared both deductions had finally met their day and were going to be entirely eliminated, resulting in a major financial hit that many homeowners and particularly those in high real … [Read More...]
