Monthly Archives: January 2017
Michigan First Home Down Payment Assistance
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) offers Down Payment Assistance (DPA) to help homebuyers purchase a home. It is a second mortgage that must be used in conjunction with MSHDA’s MI First Home or MSHDA’s MI Next Home first mortgage. Designed for low- to moderate-income homebuyers, depending on the home location and family size,... Read More
Planning appropriately for renovations
You walk into a home that potentially has the perfect layout, although the kitchen is dated, the floors need upgrading, the bathrooms are awkward … but the price is right and you’ve always wanted to customize a home … so you buy it with renovation in mind. How hard could it be? After all, those... Read More
Open house pitfalls, tips, and etiquette for buyers
How To Start So, you’re thinking of buying a home … where do you begin? Potential buyers new to the real estate market may not know exactly what they want in a home, or where they want to live. The dream homes in magazines are a great way to get ideas, and looking at pictures... Read More
Is it time to stop renting?
Is it time to stop renting? We will help you decide! Calculating the cost There are different costs and benefits associated with owning versus renting, so a simple comparison of monthly payments might lead you to believe one is better over the other. To calculate the real differences, and therefore the real cost or benefit,... Read More
Loving your home doesn’t have to be expensive
“What can I do to get my home ready?” This question is often posed when someone is ready to sell a home, but it doesn’t have to be. Making your home repairs and upgrades as needed can actually lead to a happier home owning lifestyle and will also mean that you are ready to go,... Read More
What it takes to get your home sold
Trying to sell your home but not getting the foot traffic and interest you expected? Chances are your home is not priced correctly or not available at the right hours. Pricing to sell is a very individual process and may not always be about current market rates and comparable properties. However some simple principles listed... Read More
Tips for handicap accessible living
Accessibility Extended families living in one home are more the norm these days. When looking for a home to share with your older parents, consider that while they may be completely mobile now, in the future they may need assistance to maintain balance, negotiate stairs, utilize a wheelchair or walker, or enter or exit the... Read More
How to make your living room flow
One of the first decisions you make in your new house is where to place your furniture. In the living areas, furniture placement can make or break your home’s “flow” or ease of movement. A sofa placed just two feet one way or the other, a side table too far out of reach or a... Read More
FHA loans vs. Conventional loans
FHA Loans Are a Great Low Down Payment Option These government-backed home loans have become insanely popular. The main selling point of an FHA loan is the 3.5% minimum down payment requirement. However, in order to qualify for the flagship low down payment option, you need a minimum credit score of 580. And 580 is just... Read More
Considering a new roof for your home?
Choosing a new roof for your home can seem like a daunting task, but the process can proceed quicker than you might expect. Keeping a few key points in mind can really aid in your decision! First, realize that not every material will work for every roof. A flat roof would require a different material... Read More