add curb appeal to your property - townnews · area in your outdoor living space as well. curb...

Add curb appeal to your property homeowners do not care much about their home’s appearance, and that may lead buyers to think that indifference extended to maintaining the home’s interior as well. Many buyers will ignore properties without any external creative appeal, but cleaning up the yard does not require much effort or expense on the part of sellers.

• Make the main entryway more inviting. Creating a more inviting entryway won’t be as simple as cleaning up the yard, but it can help create a strong first impression without breaking the bank. To begin, remove plants and furniture from the front porch or area surrounding the doorway, as such items can create a cluttered feel. If the front door is old, replace it. Custom doors may be expensive, but they might add the wow factor buyers are looking for. If a new door is beyond your means or just unnecessary, repaint the door, ideally in a color that complements the color of your home and the surrounding landscape.

• Address pavement problems. Paving problems are not necessarily an expensive fix, but the cost of repairing driveways

Many people are familiar with the idea that a strong first impression can go a long way. While that idea is most often referenced in regard to personal interactions, it’s also applicable to real estate.

When selling a home, homeowners who emphasize curb appeal may find it far easier to sell their homes. Curb appeal refers to the impression a home’s exterior makes on people seeing the home for the first time. In 2014, the online real estate database Zillow® surveyed real estate agents and found that curb appeal was one of the five most important factors when selling a home.

Projects that improve curb appeal can be vast undertakings or simpler projects, and the following are a handful of projects to improve a home’s curb appeal that run the gamut from simple to complex.

• Clean up the yard. Cleaning up the yard is among the simpler yet most effective projects to improve a home’s curb appeal. When selling their homes, homeowners should clear the yard of any clutter, including kids’ toys, grass clippings or items that might be scattered throughout the yard. A cluttered yard suggests

and walkways can add up if it’s been awhile since these areas were refurbished. Still, one of the first things buyers will notice when getting out of their cars is the ground they’re walking on, so patch and repair or even replace driveways and walkways that have fallen into disrepair.

• Add or upgrade outdoor living spaces. Outdoor living spaces also can set a property apart from others on the market. A recent study from the National Association of Realtors found that buyers would not hesitate to pay asking price for homes with outdoor living spaces. When adding or upgrading outdoor living spaces, try to depersonalize the spaces as much as possible, as buyers want to picture themselves, and not the sellers, enjoying these areas. Include some comfortable furniture, adequate lighting and a dining area in your outdoor living space as well.

Curb appeal can add a lot to a home, while lack of such appeal can make a home difficult to sell. Homeowners who want to sell their properties for asking price or more should address curb appeal before putting their homes on the market.

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Building permits protect homeowners in various ways

workmanship means homeowners can feel confident in the work being done. Permits reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes

As inspectors go through their checklists, they may notice things that were done incorrectly and will offer advice about how to mend the problem before it becomes a larger headache. If left unchecked, an electrical error could lead to a fire or another dangerous situation. Repairs that are not structurally sound may

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the home improvement process. Homeowners should not skirt the responsibility because the permit and inspection process is in place to provide protection to occupants.

You are thinking of making a major renovation to your home. Perhaps it’s time to create that master bedroom suite you long have admired or install that wrap-around porch? What is the first thing that should be done before getting down to business?

The correct way to begin a home remodeling project is to obtain the necessary permits for the job. Many communities request individuals obtain permits for a range of work on homes or other structures, such as office buildings. Permits are generally required for all new construction as well as specific modifications that will affect structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems. It’s important to check with the local building office prior to beginning work to see which permits you will need before the project can begin. Permits are necessary whether a homeowner is doing the work or hiring an outside contractor.

Due to the cost and time involved with securing permits, some homeowners skip this step so they can begin a project promptly. However, this can end up being a costly mistake. Permits might seem like a nuisance, but they actually protect homeowners in various ways. Permits ensure safe workmanship

Permits provide a blueprint by which contractors and do-it-yourselfers must complete renovations. Because inspections will take place, there is no wiggle room. Shortcuts often translate into subpar work that may lead to malfunction and injury in the long run. Safeguarding against poor


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3 tips to prepare to sell your home Homeowners with green thumbs can tackle such projects on their own, but hiring professionals is similar to staging inside the home. 2. Conquer interior clutter. Clutter has a way of accumulating over the winter, when people tend to spend more time indoors than they do throughout the rest of the year. Homeowners who want to put their homes on the market in spring won’t have the luxury of waiting until spring to do their “spring” cleaning, so start clearing any clutter out in winter, even resolving to make an effort to prevent its accumulation throughout winter. Just like buyers are impressed by curb appeal, they are turned off by clutter. The Appraisal Institute suggests homeowners clear clutter out of their homes before appraisers visit, and the same approach can be applied to open houses. Buyers, like appraisers, see cluttered homes as less valuable. In addition, a home full of clutter might give buyers the impression, true or not, that the home was not well maintained. 3. Eliminate odors.

A home’s inhabitants grow accustomed to odors that might be circulating throughout the house. Pet odor, for instance, might not be as strong to a home’s residents as it is to guests and prospective buyers. Because

According to Realtor.com, spring is the busiest and best season to sell a home. While a good home can find a buyer any time of year, homeowners might find the buyers’ pool is strongest in spring and into summer. The reasons for that are many, ranging from parents wanting to move when their children are not in school to buyers wanting to move when the weather is most accommodating.

Because spring is such a popular time to sell a home, homeowners who want to put their homes on the market should use winter as an opportunity to prepare their homes for the prying eyes of prospective buyers. The following tips can help homeowners during the pre-selling preparation process. 1. Address the exterior of the home.

Winter can be harsh on a home’s exterior, so as winter winds down, homeowners who want to sell their homes should make an effort to address anything that might negatively affect their homes’ curb appeal. A study of homes in Greenville, S.C., from researchers at Clemson University found that the value of homes with landscapes that were upgraded from “good” to “excellent” increased by 6 to 7 percent. If it’s in the budget, hire professional landscapers to fix any problematic landscaping or address any issues that arose during the winter.

windows tend to stay closed throughout the winter, interior odors can be even stronger come late-winter than they are during the rest of the year. A thorough cleaning of the house, including vacuuming and removal of any pet hair that accumulated over the winter, can help to remove odor. In the weeks leading up to the open house, bathe pets more frequently, using a shampoo that promotes healthy skin so pet dander is not as prevalent. Open windows when the weather allows so more fresh air comes into the home.

Spring is a popular and potentially

lucrative time to sell a home, and homeowners who spend winter preparing their homes for the market may reap even greater rewards.


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regulations. You want to ensure that any renovations you make are done in keeping with safety codes and laws. 3. While you’re thinking of your neighbors, give them the heads up on your potential plans. This way they will not be surprised by the extra noise and activity when the renovation begins. 4. Remodeling can cost anywhere from $200 to $600 per square foot added. You’ll need to figure out a way to pay for the renovations, and you may consider refinancing your home. Make sure it is a smart time financially to do so based on current real estate market conditions. Also know that additions will likely increase your home insurance coverage needs. Consult with the insurance company about estimated

charges and any restrictions they have. 5. Consider a standalone structure when mulling over your options. Sometimes the cost of putting up a free- standing office or another structure on your property may end up being less expansive than expanding on what you already have. Think creatively and research all of your options before committing to a project.

Homeowners who feel their homes are a little confined may be interested in expanding their homes to make them more comfortable and serviceable. Several questions may come to mind when homeowners are considering adding on to an existing home.

Expanding a home requires careful consideration. While the end results can be spectacular, expansion is typically a long and costly process that will impede on the lifestyles of a home’s inhabitants during the renovation process. Expect loud noises, work crews and sawdust throughout the project. Depending on which areas are being renovated, residents may feel their lives are in upheaval until the expansion project has been completed.

Familiarizing yourself with the expansion process and recognizing potential snags along the way can make planning and coping that much easier. 1. Many homeowners first consult with a contractor when mulling over expansions. However, you may want to speak with an architect first. He or she may be able to suggest renovations that fit with your neighborhood and appeal to prospective buyers when you decide to sell your home in the future. 2. Visit your building inspection or municipal office to learn the local


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Beginner’s guide to real estate investments steady stream of long-term income. Understand what you hope to achieve by investing. If it’s to become an overnight millionaire, you may be looking at the wrong investment vehicle in real estate.

• Establish a plan. New investors who do not have a plan in place will likely spend too much or have more setbacks than others who have planned accordingly. When investing in real estate, it’s more about the bottom line than the property itself. According to Springboard Academy, a real estate academy for investors, look for motivated sellers and stick to a set purchase price. Try to make offers on a variety of properties that work in your financial favor. And know what you want to do with the property (i.e., renovate and sell, remove and rebuild, or rehab and rent) before you buy. Fit the house to the plan, and not vice-versa.

• Start small. If this is your first time out there, stick with properties that will turnover quickly. Research areas in and around urban centers or close to transportation and shopping. A good starter property is a small house or a condominium that can be refurbished and then rented. Rental properties offer steady sources of income when renters are properly vetted, offers Investopedia, an investment resource.

• Look at many different properties. Become an expert by learning as much as you can about what is out there. Attend open houses; look for vacant/ unattractive properties; scour the

Purchasing a house or property is about more than setting up a home. Although quite a number of people buy real estate to establish their future, long- term home, many others recognize the potentially lucrative investment that lies within a real estate purchase.

Despite the ups and downs of the economy, real estate has become a common investment vehicle — one that has plenty of potential for making big gains for those who are willing to put in the effort. According to the experts at Entrepreneur, even in a bad economy, real estate investments will usually fare better than stocks. Real estate also continues to appreciate despite the occasional economical slow-down.

Like any other endeavor, there is a right and a wrong way to go about investing in real estate. Novices may not know where to begin their first forays into the real estate market as investors, even if they already own their own homes. Buying a property as an investment is an entirely different animal than buying a home to establish a residence. However, with the right guidance, anyone can dabble in real estate.

• Establish financial goals. Before you even begin looking at properties or put forth the effort of meeting with an agent, you must determine what you expect from the investment. The days of buying real estate and flipping it for a fast profit may no longer be here. However, real estate can provide a

classifieds in your local paper; or put the word out there that you’re interested in buying a property. Only look at properties that have motivated sellers, because then you’ll get closest to the price you want to pay. And don’t forget to research the area and the home turnover rate for the specific area where

you are looking. Don’t make assumptions that a property will appreciate without doing your homework.

Real estate can be a worthy investment opportunity. With research, a plan and the right price, just about anyone can be a real estate investor.

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some of the most coveted and profitable improvements that can be made to a home. Installing new cabinetry, countertops and appliances can transform the look of a kitchen, but homeowners also must consider the functionality of design when renovating.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association suggests applying the kitchen “work triangle,” which is a concept used to create efficient kitchen layouts. The triangle comprises imaginary straight lines drawn from the cooking appliance, sink and refrigerator.

These are where much of the work in the kitchen takes place. The general idea is that when the work triangle is positioned accordingly — with the three components in close proximity to one another — the kitchen is easier and more efficient to use. Homeowners will be able to move freely among these elements when they are placed at appropriate distances, reducing wasted

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• If the kitchen has only one sink, it should be placed between or across from the cooking surface, preparation area or refrigerator.

The work triangle is a suggestion, not a law of design. As kitchens evolve and more people use them simultaneously, designers may take certain liberties — even having multiple triangles at play. Homeowners should also design their kitchens so they function best for their lifestyles.

Kitchen layout can be just as important as the decor and appliances within the kitchen.

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How to make a successful offer in today’s housing market real estate agent who is active in the neighborhoods you’re considering will be instrumental in helping you put in a solid offer based on recent sales of similar homes, the condition of the house and what you can afford.

Always ask the seller for a home warranty as part of your initial offer. That way, you’ll be covered if appliances or mechanicals fail or break down after you’re in the home.

Set your offer apart from the competition by including a letter to the seller, or offer the seller the ability to rent back their home for some period of time after closing. This can be your chance to connect beyond just dollars. Talk to your agent about other ways to make your offer resonate.

• Prepare to negotiate. Be prepared for counteroffers. The two things most likely to be negotiated are the selling price and closing date. Given that, you’ll be glad you did your homework first to understand how much you can afford. Your agent will aid the negotiation process, giving you guidance on the counteroffer and making sure that the agreed-to contract terms are met.

• Get a home inspection. Once you’ve signed the purchase contract, always get an independent home inspection so you know the true condition of the home. If the inspection uncovers undisclosed problems you

(StatePoint) Prospective homebuyers can get encouraged by the current market. Nearly 68 percent of homes sales today are to individual buyers compared to 53 percent in 2011 when investor and cash deals were at their peak. Still, competition for housing is hot.

“In a competitive market, your offer may be one of many. But you can take steps to increase your chances of success,” says Chris Bowden, senior vice president of HomeSteps, the real estate sales division of Freddie Mac.

The experts at HomeSteps and Bowden are offering homebuyers five important tips for making an offer in today’s market:

• Understand your finances. While it’s not nearly as fun as house hunting, fully understanding your finances is critical to helping you determine your price limit and whether your budget can cover necessary upgrades, as well as monthly expenses for general upkeep and utilities, which can run hundreds of dollars monthly.

• Act fast. When home inventory is low, the sooner you can make an offer, the better. Get pre-approved if you know you’ll need a mortgage to buy. It will help you act fast and make a confident offer.

• Make a solid offer. A strong offer will be comparable with other sales and listings in the neighborhood. A licensed

can typically re-negotiate the terms or cancel the contract.

More tips, insights and homebuying resources can be found by visiting myhome.freddiemac.com.

While house hunting is fun, homebuying should not be taken lightly. For best results, get prepared. Smart strategies can help you make a successful offer on a property.

Top 3 reasons buying an eco-friendly home is best

endure some of Mother Nature’s worst. Homes with this system are disaster- resilient and boast fire-, sound- and tornado-resistant properties. “Our advanced design combines two panels of thick (EPS) foam with the structural strength and thermal mass of concrete,” Rector explains.

3. Long-term value. Remember that high quality materials will withstand the test of time. For example, using reinforced concrete for the main structural element is more durable and requires less maintenance and repair over its lifetime compared to wood structures that require regular maintenance over their limited life span. A home built with this concrete system is also far less prone to mold, cold spots and drafts — making the upkeep easier and increasing its attractiveness to buyers if you ever decide to sell.

If you want your builder to use ICFs, be sure to discuss it early in the plans. Find more information online at nudura.com.

(MS) — If you’re in the market for a newly built home, a home that is environmentally friendly should be your top priority. More than just great for the environment, a green home saves you time and money and increases the value of your property. Read on for why an eco-friendly dwelling is the way to go for the place your family will call home for years to come.

1. Save on your energy bills. “A huge step forward is to replace the traditional wood framing of your house with what we call ICFs — insulated concrete forms,” says Keven Rector at Nudura, a leading name in this technology. “If, for instance, you build the envelope of your house with concrete instead of wood, the energy required to heat and cool it will be significantly reduced, a plus for the environment, and along with reduced energy bills, a plus for you.”

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Why hiring a landscaper may be for you

conditions that threaten its survival. While homeowners going it alone may struggle through a trial and error period as they try to address problems threatening their lawns, experienced professionals are more likely to identify the problem immediately, providing a ready solution that can prevent potentially costly repairs down the road.

•Professionals can provide inspiration. In addition to maintaining properties, many landscaping professionals have vast experience improving properties through landscape design. Professional landscapers may have a host of ideas for your property that you would never think of. Homeowners with little to no lawn and garden experience may not realize all the things they can do with their properties, and those who go it alone may end up with unappealing landscapes that do not attract buyers’ attention when the home hits the market. Professionals typically have a wealth of ideas and, perhaps more importantly, they understand which ideas will and won’t work on a given property.

• Professionals can remove some of the stress of managing landscaping projects. Homeowners know that home improvement projects, whether they are addressing home interiors or exteriors, can be stressful. Professional landscapers typically have a network of professionals, including contractors, who they have worked with in the past. Such connections can ensure more complex projects that require both landscapers and construction contractors go as smoothly as possible. In addition, homeowners who receive contractor recommendations from their experienced landscapers tend to rest easier knowing the people working on their properties have already developed a rapport and established a successful track record working together.

Professional landscapers can be just what homeowners need to turn their properties into appealing oases no buyer can resist.

The majority of homeowners want their properties to appear as appealing as possible. While many homeowners want to be proud of their properties and come home to a welcoming home each night, the benefits to maintaining landscaping go beyond the notion that well-cared for lawns make for more comforting retreats.

Because numerous variables, including landscaping, influence property values, it’s difficult to assess just how much the property values of homes with impressive landscapes are influenced by those very landscapes. Indeed, studies have produced varying results regarding the effect of well- landscaped homes on property values. But what many studies have shown and what many realtors indicate is that impressive landscaping adds a significant amount to property values, with estimates suggesting landscaping increases home values by anywhere from 5 to 20 percent.

Such estimates are good news for homeowners, and they also highlight the stakes involved when making landscaping decisions. Homeowners with green thumbs may embrace the challenge of revitalizing their lawns and gardens, but many, especially those pressed for time, can benefit greatly from working with professional landscapers. Why hire a professional landscaper?

Maintaining a property requires more than just mowing the lawn every couple of weeks. Even homeowners committed to making their properties as pristine as possible can run into problems when adverse weather conditions pose a threat to lawns and gardens. The following are just a handful of reasons why homeowners may find working with landscaping professionals is the best thing for their properties and their bank accounts.

• Professionals understand the local climate. Experienced professional landscapers will understand the local climate and the challenges it presents to your lawn. Experience can prove invaluable as lawns battle adverse


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How to determine if downsizing is for you • Get a grip on the real estate

market. Downsizing is not solely about money, but it’s important that homeowners consider the real estate market before putting their homes up for sale. Speak with a local realtor or your financial advisor about the current state of your real estate market. Downsizing can help homeowners save money on utilities, taxes and mortgage payments, but those savings may be negated if you sell your house in a buyer’s market instead of a seller’s market. If you think the current market won’t get you the price you are hoping

As men and women retire or approach retirement age, many opt to downsize their homes. Such a decision can save older adults substantial amounts of money while also liberating them from the hassle of maintaining large homes they no longer need.

Downsizing to smaller homes or apartments is a significant step, one that homeowners should give ample consideration before making their final decisions. The following are a handful of tips to help homeowners determine if downsizing to smaller homes is the right move.

for, delay your downsize until the market rebounds.

• Take inventory of what’s in your house. Empty nesters often find that their homes are still filled with their children’s possessions, even long after those children have entered adulthood and left home. If the storage in your home is dominated by items that belong to your children and not you, then downsizing might be right for you.

Tell your children you are thinking of downsizing and invite them over to pick through any items still in your home. Once they have done so and taken what they want, you can host a yard sale, ultimately donating or discarding what you cannot sell. Once all of the items are gone, you may realize that moving into a smaller place is the financially prudent decision.

• Examine your own items as well. Your children’s items are likely not the only items taking up space in your home. Take inventory of your own possessions as well, making note of items you can live without and those you want to keep. If the list of items you can live without is extensive, then you probably won’t have a problem moving into a smaller home. If you aren’t quite ready to say goodbye to many of your possessions, then you might benefit from staying put for a little while longer.

• Consider your retirement lifestyle.

If you have already retired or on the verge of retirement and plan to spend lots of time traveling, then downsizing to a smaller home may free up money you can spend on trips. And if you really do see yourself as a silver-haired jetsetter, then you likely won’t miss your current home because you won’t be home frequently enough to enjoy it. If travel is not high on your retirement to-do list but you have a hobby, such as crafting, restoring classic cars or woodworking, that you hope to turn into a second profession, then you might benefit from staying put and converting your existing space into a workshop.

Many retirees downsize their homes, but this decision requires careful consideration of a variety of factors.

1509 Riverside Blvd., Suite B, Norfolk Cell: 402-750-MOVE (6683)REALTOR

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How to transform a fixer-upper wholesale or trade costs. In addition, experts can help you avoid common pitfalls because they’ve already done this type of work time and again. It’s smart to rely on expert advice, even if it means investing a little bit more.

• Save money by doing some work yourself. While the pros may tackle the more complex parts of a given project, such as rewiring electricity or changing the footprint of a home, you can still be involved. Ask to participate in demolition, such as taking down walls or removing old materials from the home. Such participation may be fun, and it can save you substantial amounts of money on labor.

• Recognize that not everything must be completely redone. Realize that, in some instances, a coat of paint and some new accents may be all you need to transform a space. For example, if kitchen cabinets are in good condition, see if they can be refaced or painted instead of replaced entirely. Install new door pulls/handles to add visual interest. Look for some ready-made items, such as bookshelves, instead of installing custom carpentry.

• Think about what the buyer wants and not what you want. Renovate with an eye toward prospective buyers’

The real estate market will always have its ups and downs, but real estate is an oft-profitable investment. Real estate investors do their investing for various reasons. Some see a house as a place to hang their hats for years and years, while others look at properties as nothing more than investments.

Buying a home with the intent to fix it up and resell it is called a “fix and flip.” In such situations, investors buy homes at below-market prices before refurbishing the homes with the goal of recouping their initial investment and then some when the homes are ultimately put back on the market. Flipping has become popular for both expert remodelers and novice investors. RealtyTrac®, the nation’s leading source for comprehensive housing data, noted in its “Year-End and Q4 2015 U.S. Home Flipping” report that 5.5 percent of all single family home and condo sales during the year were flipped properties. This marked an increase from the same time the previous year.

Investing in a fixer-upper requires a leap of faith and a vision of what the home can look like in the future. Turning a real estate lemon into lemonade requires certain skills and a good measure of patience. The following are some guidelines to get anyone started.

• Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Make an honest assessment of your abilities and which renovations, if any, you can handle. If you are unskilled or inexperienced working with your hands, then it can be easy for an investment property to quickly become a money pit. Before purchasing a property, hire a trained home inspector to tour the home with you and point out all of the areas that will need renovation. With this list, begin getting estimates on how much money the work will entail. Determine if this fits with your budget or not. You do not want to invest so much that it exceeds what you could feasibly recoup when it comes time to sell.

• Overlook cosmetic things when visiting properties. Cosmetic issues include all of the easily replaceable items in a home, such as carpeting, appliances, interior paint colors and cabinetry. Focus on the bones of the house — the architectural integrity and those little touches that you envision having a “wow” factor.

• Seek the help of experts. Some flippers think they’ll save the most money by doing all of the work themselves. This isn’t always the case. Professional architects, designers and contractors may help you save money. Contractors have an intimate knowledge of where to buy materials and may be able to negotiate prices based on

needs. Keep things neutral and accommodating. Research the latest trends to understand what buyers might be seeking in a home. You want potential buyers to envision themselves moving right in.

Renovating a fixer- upper takes time, but it can be a worthwhile project, and one that can help anyone turn a profit in a booming real estate market.


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How to pay off your mortgage early amount of interest you will pay over the life of the loan at the same time. For example, a $200,000 30-year mortgage loan at 7 percent interest will cost borrowers $1,330.60 per month (costs may vary depending on taxes), and that loan will be paid off in 30 years. But borrowers who increase their payments by just $50 per month can pay off the loan in 26 years and nine months. What’s more, borrowers who only make the minimum payment each month will have paid $279,017.80 in interest charges over the life of the loan, while those who increase each month’s payment by just $50 will have paid just $242,588.80 in interest over the life of the loan. That means that extra $50 per month saves borrowers $36,249 in interest charges.

One thing borrowers must be certain of is that any extra money they send in each month is applied to the loan’s principal, and not just set aside for the next month’s payment. Talk to your lender to verify this, and when

Becoming a homeowner is a great feeling for many people, but that feeling of elation often dissipates when the first mortgage payment comes due. Although most responsible buyers shouldn’t be surprised at the amount of that first mortgage payment, that first bill can still catch someone off guard.

Though the apprehension over mortgage payments may wear off once homeowners get settled, that doesn’t mean homeowners don’t wish they could pay off their homes before those mortgages reach maturity. Though it might seem impossible in those first few months after buying a home, paying a mortgage off early can be accomplished in a variety of ways.

* Increase what you pay each month. Any type of loan, be it a traditional credit card or a mortgage, will disappear faster when borrowers pay more than the bare minimum. By paying just a little more each month, more of your money is going to the principal on the loan, lowering the

doing so, make sure you don’t have to pay any prepayment penalties if you do, in fact, pay the mortgage off before it reaches full maturity. Such penalties can be significant, but they might be worth paying for the peace of mind of knowing you will be paying your mortgage off several years early.

* �Consider bi-weekly payments. Bi- weekly payments, in which borrowers make half-payments every two weeks instead of one full payment once per month, are another way to pay your mortgage off early. A typical mortgage agreement has borrowers making payments once per month, meaning they are making 12 annual payments. But a bi-weekly payment system takes advantage of the fact that there are 52 weeks in a year. So by the end of one calender year, you will have made 26 half-payments, or 13 full payments. Such a payment system enables some borrowers to pay off their 30-year mortgages in as little as 24 years.

When looking into bi-weekly payments, consult your lender to determine if there are any penalties to such a system. Some lending institutions charge customers who change their payment structure. In addition, confirm with your lender that each extra payment is going toward the principal and not toward your first payment next year.

* Refinance your loan. Refinancing to a shorter-term loan often earns borrowers a smaller interest rate, which can offset the higher monthly payments that accompany shorter-term loans. A shorter-term loan means you won’t have mortgage payments hanging over your head for as long as you would on a 30-year mortgage, and it also means you won’t pay nearly as much in interest over the life of the loan. Many homeowners find a 15-year mortgage forces them to be more disciplined. Homeowners who find their 30-year monthly mortgage payment is well below their means should consider a shorter-term loan, especially if their 30-year mortgage would penalize them for paying the loan off before it reaches full maturity.

Mortgage payments have a way of dominating homeowners’ thoughts. But those homeowners who want to get out from under their mortgage payments without selling their homes have a handful of options at their disposal.

You’ve always lived in a small home and loved it. With far less house and yard to care for, you’ve had more time to devote to other interests. Now that you’re adding to your family, however, you’re not sure if you can continue to enjoy the perks of small home living. Relax. Unless your family is growing substantially larger, you can remain where you are and make a few changes to maximize your home’s potential.

Storage can be a problem in any size of home. If your small home lacks storage space, consider creating some built-ins. Built-in bookshelves, cabinets and seating make wonderful additions to any home. You just need to place them in the best area possible and be careful not to take up too much floor space.

In a home lacking in square footage, multipurpose is the name of the game. Make sure your rooms serve more than one purpose. Tuck a desk in the corner of your dining room and use the space to eat and work in. Slide your upright piano into your entryway and use the space as a foyer and a music room. Add a bench to your second floor landing and use the space for reading.

The same principle applies to your furniture choices. Don’t bring a piece into your home unless it can serve more than one purpose. Consider a sleeper sofa for your living room. You can sit on it during the day and use it for guests at night. Select a comfortable chair for your desk. You can sit in it and work at your desk and slide it into the living room when needed for extra seating. Switch out your coffee table for an ottoman. You can use it as a footrest when watching TV and as

extra seating when company comes over. Select smaller equipment and

accessories. Trade out your bulky TV and computer monitor for flat-screen models. Use hanging bedside lamps rather than large tableside lamps. Choose smaller appliances for your kitchen. You will be amazed at how much more room you have just by using smaller items.

Light up the rooms in your home and make them appear larger. Use a variety of lighting sources at various heights around each room. Throw open the drapes during the day and let the natural light in. Bring in some mirrors to reflect light around each room.

Keep your color palette light. Dark colors tend to close in the space, while lighter colors keep it bright and airy. Reserve darker, bolder colors for accents to add drama and depth.

Add to your square footage with an outdoor space. Power-wash that old patio, add some new furniture and plants, and presto, you have extended your living area outdoors.

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How to save enough for a down payment on a house

Prequalifying for a mortgage can make the home buying process a lot easier, and it also can give first-time buyers an idea of how much they can spend. Once lenders prequalify prospective buyers, the buyers can then do the simple math to determine how much they will need to put down. For example, preapproval for a $300,000 loan means buyers will have to put down $60,000 to meet the 20 percent down payment threshold. In that example, buyers can put down less than $60,000, but they will then have to pay PMI. It’s important for buyers to understand that a down payment is not the only costs they will have to come up with when buying a home. Closing costs and other fees will also need to be paid by the buyers.

• Examine monthly expenses. Once buyers learn how much mortgage they will qualify for, they will then see how close they are to buying a home. But prospective buyers of all means can save more each month by examining their monthly expenses and looking for ways to save. Buyers can begin by looking over their recent spending habits and then seeing where they can spend less. Cutting back on luxuries and other unnecessary spending can help buyers get closer to buying their next home.

• Avoid risky investments. Some times it’s great to take risks when investing, but risk should be avoided when saving for a down payment on a home. Traditional vehicles like certificates of deposit, or CDs, and savings accounts can ensure the money buyers are saving for their homes is protected and not subject to market fluctuations.

Saving enough to make a down payment on a home can be accomplished if buyers stay disciplined with regard to saving and make sound financial decisions.

A home is the most costly thing many people will ever buy. The process of buying a home can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. One way to make the process of buying a home go more smoothly is to save enough money to put down a substantial down payment.

Saving for a down payment on a home is similar to saving for other items, only on a far grander scale. Many financial planners and real estate professionals recommend prospective home buyers put down no less than 20 percent of the total cost of the home they’re buying. Down payments short of 20 percent will require private mortgage insurance, or PMI. The cost of PMI depends on a host of variables, but is generally between 0.3 and 1.5 percent of the original loan amount. While plenty of homeowners pay PMI, buyers who can afford to put down 20 percent can save themselves a considerable amount of money by doing so.

Down payments on a home tend to be substantial, but the following are a few strategies prospective home buyers can employ to grow their savings with an eye toward making a down payment on their next home.

• Decide when you want to buy. The first step to buying a home begins when buyers save their first dollar for a down payment. Deciding when to buy can help buyers develop a saving strategy. If buyers decide they want to buy in five years away, they will have more time to build their savings. If buyers want to buy within a year, they will need to save more each month, and those whose existing savings fall far short of the 20 percent threshold may have to accept paying PMI.

• Prequalify for a mortgage. Before buyers even look for their new homes, they should first sit down with a mortgage lender to determine how much a mortgage they will qualify for.


DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE

Eligible Counties: Antelope Boone Burt Cedar Colfax Cuming Dakota Dixon Dodge Douglas (rural) Knox Madison Nance Pierce Platte Stanton Thurston Washington Wayne

Interested in owning your own home but short on down payment funds?

The Down Payment Assistance program (DPA) is an instrumental tool for low-to-moderate income clients that would like to purchase a home. It involves a 0% interest loan with payments deferred until transfer of title or resale of the home.

If you are interested in learning more about the Down Payment Assistance program, please visit our housing webpage at www.nenedd.org/housing.html. You may also call Judy Joy, Housing Loan Specialist, with any questions you may have.

Housing Department Judy Joy

Housing Loan Specialist [email protected]

(402) 379-1150 ext. 111

Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District

111 S. 1st St | Norfolk, NE 68701 | 402-379-1150

www.nenedd.org

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Find and maintain the right carpet for you flooring choices in others.

Upon choosing carpet, it is important that homeowners follow some guidelines to prolong a carpet’s longevity and maintain its style.

The following are some common carpeting dos and don’ts.

DO consider the room’s purpose and foot traffic before shopping for carpeting. Make a list of the attributes desired (e.g., soundproofing, easy care, high pile) and present these to the salesperson so he or she can help you make the best choice.

DON’T rush into flooring choices. Unlike paint colors, flooring materials are more permanent choices that are only updated every several years or more. Weigh all of your options before diving in.

DO consider conservative colors and

Carpets provide both practical and aesthetic appeal inside a home. In winter, carpets help keep homes warm, and the right color carpet can add to design schemes.

While rugs may have originated in the Far East, North America also has some rich carpet history. According to The Carpet and Rug Institute, the United States carpet industry began in 1791 when the first woven carpet mill opened in Philadelphia. Others soon followed suit. Tufted carpets and machine-powered manufacturing helped churn out yards upon yards of carpeting, making it a popular, affordable and common addition to homes, especially after the post-World War II housing boom.

Carpeting remains a go-to flooring material in modern homes. In fact, many homes offer a blend of both carpeting in some rooms and different

Are formal spaces disappearing? living room to merge with other spaces in the home, while 30 percent expected it to vanish to save on square footage.

So what is taking the place of living rooms and dining rooms? Great rooms and open-concept kitchens have steadily caught the eyes of designers and homeowners alike. Such rooms enable a free flow between lounging and entertaining spaces and the heart of the home — the kitchen. On-the-go families may not be sitting down to the same formal dinners they once were, or they don’t need the pomp and circumstance of formal meals. Large eat-in-kitchens function well for family meals and even for entertaining friends in a relaxing way.

Thanks to the advent of wireless technology and mobile devices, home residents no longer need to be relegated to one room in the house for their media watching or computer use. This may have helped to accelerate the disappearance of living rooms. In addition, the concept of devoting one space as a media-free zone (traditional formal living or sitting rooms tend to be

Formal dining and living spaces could once be found in every home. But such rooms are becoming more and more rare, thanks in large part to the rising popularity of multipurpose open spaces.

As early as 1992, architects and builders were predicting the demise of formal living spaces in homes. At that year’s International Geographical Congress, architectural geographer Artimus Keiffer estimated the living room and dining room would disappear from the American residence in the next century, to be replaced by the family- entertainment room and the computer room. According to North Carolina- based builders Stanton Homes, many home buyers have inquired about converting their formal dining rooms into office spaces or rooms to be used for purposes other than dining.

The National Association of Home Builders also released a special report listing home features expected to become the norm within the next several years. More than half of the NAHB study participants expected the

tech-free) may seem antiquated to this plugged-in generation. Rooms that are comfortable and serve various purposes better suit today’s homeowners.

The rules that once governed the traditional home floor plan are more

fluid than ever. Homeowners’ preferences are having a greater impact over which rooms are now being included in new homes and which ones are soon to be history.

styles. Neutral hues and patterns will blend better with furniture options. This means you can change furniture out and still keep the existing carpeting, which complements any new pieces. Also, if there’s a chance you might sell your home in the near future, buyers tend to look for a neutral color scheme they can make their own.

DON’T skimp on padding to save a few dollars on the carpet installation. The carpeting needs a solid foundation to last and look its best. Inadequate padding can lead to extra and noticeable wear and tear. Invest in a good foundation for the carpeting, like firm, dense padding in high-traffic areas.

DO become knowledgeable about different carpet styles, such as frieze, Berber, Saxony, textured, and more.

This will help ensure you make the most educated decision.

DON’T purchase at the first store you visit. Shop around to investigate different pricing and specials. Also, consider the professionalism and expertise of the staff responsible for carpet installation. High-cost carpet may not look very good if it isn’t installed correctly.

DO stain-protect rugs and carpeting, which can help repel stains that would otherwise become permanent and can prolong the longevity of the flooring.

DON’T forget to vacuum carpets frequently to prevent ground-in dirt and debris.

DO pick textured carpets to conceal footprints and vacuum track marks.

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How to recognize water damage in a home Baseboards and molding that is dilapidated or beginning to deteriorate may also indicate water damage. Buckled drywall or wood

Drywall or wood that is buckled or beginning to buckle is another potential indicator of water damage. Drywall buckles when it gets wet, and that is often a sign that there is a leak behind the drywall. Severely buckled drywall will feel as if it has ridges. Wood also buckles when it is exposed to excess moisture, and this can usually be felt when walking on the wood barefoot or in socks. Odor

Sometimes water damage is best detected by the smell test. Homeowners who notice the smell of mold or mildew in rooms that previously never emanated such odors might have homes that are in the early stages of water problems. The water damage might be behind the walls, where mold is beginning to form thanks to water damage. Older homes tend to be musty, but call in a professional if you notice that mustiness if more pungent than usual.

Water damage is a potentially costly problem, especially if it goes unnoticed for months or even years. Homeowners and prospective home buyers should be on the lookout for signs of water damage before problems escalate and require expensive repairs.

Homes are potentially susceptible to a host of problems. While unforeseen problems can prove costly, homeowners who keep attentive eyes on their homes can oftentimes discover small problems before they escalate.

Water damage is a potentially costly problem that can afflict any home. Old homes tend to be most susceptible to water damage, and that damage can manifest itself in various ways. The following are some telltale signs of water damage that should give prospective home buyers pause and compel current homeowners to seek professional assistance as soon as possible.

Stains Many prospective home buyers have been

disappointed by the sight of water stains during an open house or home inspection. Water stains tend to be on ceilings and/or walls. Stains on ceilings tend to be round, while wall stains are straight lines down the wall that may or may not have forced paint to peel. Water stains are not necessarily indicative of a major problem, but homeowners should have the stains examined by a professional while potential buyers should direct their home inspector’s attention to the stains. Deteriorating wood

Wood around windows or doors that is deteriorating may indicate water problems. The wood might be deteriorating because water is infiltrating the wood during storms.


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