Scammers are always looking for new ways to deceive people to make a quick buck, and home improvements are a common target. As the weather warms and home improvement projects start taking center stage, contractor scams start blossoming like weeds. Here are some of the most common home improvement scams and tips to help you avoid them. The Door-to-Door Scam …
Home values are skyrocketing, and you may want to cash in on the action. Read the tips listed here to learn about possible financial moves you can make, all thanks to your home’s increased equity. Sell The financial move that quickly comes to mind when homes experience an explosion in equity is to sell the house and pocket the profits. …
Renovating your home with an eye toward its future value can help you recoup the costs of the project – and then some. Here are six home improvement projects that can increase the value of your home. 1. Kitchen remodel The area of the house that will give you the largest return on investment is definitely the kitchen. It’s often …
If you have decided to take the plunge and buy a home, you should take great care to get the right lending partner. It’s is a big decision with lots of nuances to consider. With thousands of different banks, credit unions, and even online options, how will you pick the best financial partner for your needs? First, let’s look at …
When looking for a new home, it’s important to be familiar with potential signs of defects and disrepair. Here, we’ve compiled a list of 10 red flags to watch for in a new home. Doors that don’t close completely If the doors of the house you’re viewing don’t quite meet the jambs, you’re potentially looking at a sign of major …
Keep your home warm and safe this winter by following our comprehensive to-do list before the real cold sets in. 1. Seal your home Give your home a quick run-through, checking for drafts. You can do this by holding a lit candle near the following areas: Windows Doors Vents and fans Plumbing areas Air conditioners Mail chutes Electrical and gas …
If you’re a homeowner in need of a bundle of cash, look no further than your own home. By tapping into your home’s equity, you’re eligible for a loan with a, generally, lower interest rate and easier eligibility requirements. One way to do this is by opening up a home equity line of credit, or a HELOC. Let’s take a …
As a Directions Credit Union member, you have several choices when it comes to financing a home renovation. And we want to help you find the right one for your specific needs! First, let’s take a look at some common choices and why they’re not the best idea: 1. Home Equity Loan A home equity loan is a loan that’s …
Looking for a new home and not finding what you want? Building a home can be very enticing. And if your budget allows it, you can get the exact floor plan and finishes you prefer. Plus, everything is brand new. Just make sure you know what to expect before you finance a new construction home. A lot of patience is …
You found a home! A rush of excitement and uneasiness at the same time. What’s the timeline and steps to make this a done deal? Your realtor will guide you through the negotiation process on price and basic timing for possession of the home. Once your offer is accepted, and you select a lender, the process typically wraps up start …
