The Benefits of Having a Disaster Plan
Hurricane season is just around the corner. It officially begins June 1, and forecasters are expecting an active season for 2024. The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed a guide to help residents prepare to keep their families and their property safe. It includes important steps you should be taking now to ensure you are in the...
Topics: Financial Education, Family, Homeowners
How to Maximize Space Under Bathroom and Kitchen Sinks
Do the spaces under your kitchen and bathroom sink look cluttered and unorganized? Or is it just really hard to find things you need? Check out these tips for maximizing that space!Add some shelvesMost sink space is fairly tall, but there aren’t that many bathroom items or sink appliances that reach all the way to the top of the cabinet. To...
Topics: Homeowners
Improved Energy Efficiency to Save Money
When it comes to saving money, improving your home’s energy efficiency can be a great way to rack up savings with minimal effort and plenty of benefits. Many energy-saving tips also cut your carbon footprint while also improving the comfort and value of your home. Here’s a look at a few strategies to help you save:Heat pumpsWhen you’re dealing...
Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity
Should You Still Buy a Home if You Still Have Student Loans?
Few decisions are as significant as buying a home. It’s a milestone that many aspire to achieve, but the path to homeownership can be paved with financial challenges, particularly for those still grappling with student loans. Here are the factors you should consider when deciding to buy a home while managing student debt:Pros of buying a home...
Topics: Financial Education, Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity
Essential Improvements to Make Before Listing Your House
Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity
Ways to Lower Your Homeowner's Insurance Costs
Homeowner’s insurance is a necessary but costly expense to safeguard the money you’ve invested in your house. Yet you may be paying more for home insurance than you need to. There are ways that you may be able to reduce your rates and keep more of your money for improving your house instead of insuring it:Ask about discountsHere is an easy...
Topics: Financial Education, Homeowners
Lawn Care Tips for First-Time Homeowners
Buying your first house is an exciting step — and one that comes with many new responsibilities. Along with maintaining your home, you’ll also need to care for your lawn so it stays healthy and attractive. Not sure where to begin with mowing, watering, fertilizing, and all the other tasks associated with lawn care? These tips will steer you in the...
Topics: Homeowners
How Does a Joint Mortgage Work?
If you can’t afford a house on your own, or if you wish to purchase one together with a friend, a family member, or a partner, a joint mortgage could help you make homeownership a reality. Here’s a closer look at this financial tool and how it works:What is a joint mortgage?With a joint mortgage, two or more people can pool their resources and ...
Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity
3 Important Factors That Affect Your Real Estate Transaction
The real estate market is quite different from other markets and can be confusing for even the most experienced buyers and sellers. You will need the help of a real estate agent whether you are an experienced buyer or doing it for the first time. Even with the help of an agent, you can educate yourself on some of the basic elements of a real...
Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity