Blogs

Does a Home’s Value Go Up With a Bathroom Renovation? Deciding what home improvement projects to invest in can be tricky. You don’t want to pour money into a renovation or remodel that won’t pay off when you go to sell. If you’re eager to increase your home’s value, consider starting in a small, but essential part of your home — your bathroom. On average, homeowners spend just over $27,000 on a mid-range bathroom renovation project, and over $82,000 on an upscale bathroom renovation project. At resale, mid-range renovations recoup 58.9% of their costs, while upscale renovations recoup 53.5%...

Creative Uses for Your Attic Tired of using your attic space for storage? Here are eight alternative uses for this area of your home. Master Bedroom Try transforming an attic into a master suite, especially if the original master room your house has is a bit cramped. Think of a room with a natural color scheme and exposed beams. Muted green wallpaper, white paneling and white shiplap on the ceiling brighten the room and make it appear taller. Dark wood accents add richness and the minimal use of furniture enhances the room’s spacious vibe. Music Studio The attic makes a great location for a...

Complete the Feeling of Fellowship Have you found yourself with some extra free time? This is a fantastic opportunity to try something new, learn a skill or to make the world a better place for everyone, not just yourself. Here are a few ways you can give back to your community. Donate Your Time There are countless ways to use your free time to help others. Most cities operate homeless shelters and soup kitchens, both of which are almost definitely in need of volunteers. Similarly, post-holidays can be a very lonely time for people whose families are away. Consider spending some time visiting...

Tips to start your first mortgage on the right foot Home ownership is an exciting achievement, but it’s also a huge responsibility. Entering into home ownership when you’re ready is more important than doing so right away. Starting off on the right foot can positively impact future home-buying opportunities, while rushing into a situation you’re unprepared for can limit your options down the road. Make sure you have a clear, accurate idea of your budget before you buy your first house to confirm that you’re ready for the biggest purchase of your life. Calculate Your Available Income Your first...

Money Saving Tips to Fund Your Higher Education If you’re considering going back to college to boost your credentials, you’re probably on the lookout for money-saving strategies. Here are dollar-stretching tips to keep you at the top of your class. Fill Out FAFSA If you’re looking to continue your education, your first stop should be the Free Application for Federal Student Aid website. FAFSA requires your income, housing and tax information, so be sure to have last year’s tax return ready when you apply. Plus, most colleges and universities require that you complete the FAFSA to become...