Blog

While the decline in new home construction may have some feeling “blue,” those of you who embrace a “green” lifestyle will be excited to hear about the latest projections. “Green” remodeling is a growing trend in the real estate industry! In fact, McGraw-Hill Companies, revealed last week that 17% of residential home building in 2011 was due to eco-friendly homes and upgrades. Rates on the West Coast, North Midwest, and New England have experienced even stronger growth.

This number is anticipated to continue to rise to five times that rate in the next five years with over... read more >>

Home ownership can be a heavy responsibility at times… especially when times are tough.  It can be challenging to find help when times are difficult due to a  decrease or loss of income, illness, unexpected disaster or home repairs, or personal crisis such as separation or divorce.  Add to that a reduction in home values, and the problem can seem insurmountable. While savings can help to alleviate some of the impact of these life events, it is still helpful to be aware of  potential programs and alternatives offered to distressed homeo... read more >>

When you meet someone for the first time – what do you notice?   If you’re like many of us, that initial impression is largely determined by outside appearance. Believe it or not, that concept rings true with your home, too! That’s right, your home can foreshadow clues regarding your personality and sense of style, and its landscaping tells a story as well. Is your landscape sending the message you WANT to convey? If your home is for sale, the following tips can help to make sure you are not missing the mark!

Is your home sending the correct messaage?

If not, it... read more >>

Mortgage lenders are in the news again, only this time it’s not Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae in the hot seat. If you purchased a home through GMAC (now Ally Financial), Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, or Citibank, you may want to take note. Last week’s settlement of $25 billion is proposed to aid homeowners who may have been subject to “robo-signing,” in loan and foreclosure practices. “Robo-signing” refers to the practice of mortgage providers signing or stamping documents without verifying information. If you currently have a loan or experienced a foreclosure with one of these... read more >>