Real Estate Advice

As the housing market is booming, more buyers and sellers are getting familiar with one of the most nerve-racking rituals in real estate: the home inspection. An inspection, which usually occurs after a buyer has made an offer, is an objective analysis of a home’s condition. Twenty years ago, 75% of purchased homes were inspected; today, it’s 95%, according to Bill Loden, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors, a Des Plaines, Ill.-based industry trade group. Inspections aren’t a

Thinking about starting from the ground up on the next place you live? Buying land is an appealing option, as it can give you the upmost freedom of choice, if you like making decisions. On the other hand, if you are the type that can’t even decide what to eat for dinner on any given night, it might not be the best idea for you. In this blog, we’ll cover some considerations you might not have thought of when looking

Whether you are moving in or moving out, the process can be scary. It is easy to fall under the habit of finding the first option and jumping on it. Sometimes, first isn’t always the best and now you’re stuck in a home that you don’t enjoy. Here’s what you should consider before you move! 1. Consider if you can afford it. Make sure you can afford the new home you are considering. Even though this seems like an obvious

One of the most expensive and important purchases you’re likely to make in your lifetime is your first home. Let’s face it, home ownership is one of the central components of the American “dream.” Moreover, owning a home continues to be talked about as one of the safer investments a person can make. To that end, when is the last time you attended a family gathering or function without hearing some random uncle or third cousin holding forth near the

Just like anything in life, everything has an expiration date, even your home. For your enjoyment, as well as the future owner’s, we have a checklist to help you preserve your home! You might not even be thinking of selling your home right now, but someday you will have to. It does not hurt keeping your house in top shape! Home buyers today are more cautious than ever before. Something as small as chipped paint or a damaged door knob

As the weather turns colder and harsher, it makes sense to consider winter prep for any valuable items that we own which will inevitably be affected. Some of our “stuff” such as boats, cars, motorcycles, and expensive equipment can be stored away and concealed from the elements. Ironically, though, the single most expensive item we own cannot be secured in a storage unit, covered with a tarp, or stowed away in the basement. That’s because we’re talking about the one