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A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year.[1] If you’re among them, you know that embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and daunting. According to the survey, the median renovation budget is around $15,000, so you're probably investing a … [Read more...] about 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor

With home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don't let that deter you: If other homebuyers' experiences are any indication, odds are you'll eventually find a home loan that works well for you. In fact, most U.S. homeowners say they're … [Read more...] about Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Mortgage

Whether you’re putting your home on the market in a few weeks or a few years, strategic upgrades can make all the difference. But you don't have to embark on a major remodel to make a significant improvement. Even minor updates can have a big impact on your home’s aesthetic, and certain renovations can even boost its future … [Read more...] about Weekend Projects to Help Boost Your Home Value

Last December, when the Federal Reserve projected a series of benchmark rate cuts in the coming year, some analysts speculated that mortgage rates—which had recently peaked near 8%—would fall closer to 6% by mid-2024.[1,2,3] Unfortunately, persistent inflation has delayed the central bank’s timeline and kept the average 30-year … [Read more...] about Mid-Year Market Update for 2024: What Arizona Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

The peak moving season is upon us. In fact, according to Move.com, almost 70% of U.S. moves occur between May and September.[1] And while the percentage of Americans who move each year has declined, the desire to relocate remains strong.[2,3] In fact, Architectural Digest recently declared “Americans are restless” after a … [Read more...] about The Ultimate Relocation Guide: From Finding a House to Feeling at Home

From wildfires to floods, the past few years have brought a historic number of devastating climate and weather events to the United States. In 2023 alone, there were 28 individual weather-related disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damages each.(1) These events triggered a huge influx of home insurance claims, and … [Read more...] about 6 Strategies to Save on Home Insurance Premiums

When you've lived somewhere for many years, it can be tough to say goodbye. But if you (or a loved one) currently have a home that is bigger than necessary or is too high maintenance, it may be time to trade unused square footage for a smaller, more manageable space. Take it from the downsizers who’ve been there: Although … [Read more...] about How to Downsize Your Home

One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas. Even so, it’s always smart to think about the long-term impact those decisions might … [Read more...] about Upgrade Your Home With These 2024 Design Trends