Unmarried couples accounted for 16 percent of first-time homebuyers in 2017, the highest share on record, according to the National Association of Realtors. Single men and women accounted for a quarter of first-time homebuyers. Today, just 57 percent of first-time homebuyers are married, compared with 75 percent in 1985.  The median price an unmarried couple pays for their first house is $177,000, according to the Realtors. Most married couples simply take the title, “tenants by […]

An interior designer can scan a space in seconds.  A lot of things can stand out, and not always for the best reasons. While these snapshot judgments may seem to hit home for some people, they are entirely fixable! A wonky flow. Does the furniture placement promote good flow of traffic?  A common element in a room is to have a focal wall.  This wall can be anchored by a fireplace or television, which means […]

Luxury Home Trends 2018 1. Wallpaper is back! More and more small boutique wallpaper companies are making digitally printed wallpaper. With so many options available you aren’t ever stuck with just one style! There’s vinyl, strippable or peelable wallpaper just to name a few. They are easy to swap out and really bold up a room! 2. Let your lights shine! It’s time to let creativity mingle with lighting. The current lighting trends happen to […]

Warmer weather is the perfect time to do updates on your home.  Starting early can save money in the long run and give you a leg up on time to complete your projects. Here are 7 must do projects for the warmer weather that will launch you into this summer! Inspect your roof. If you notice crooked or missing shingles, damaged flashing, or debris buildup, it is time to call a professional roofer. Not only […]

Lots of times the coldest room in the house can be your basement.  Your entire house may be the perfect temperature, yet still the basement acts as if it doesn’t have walls. The heat loss from your basement may be adding to your bills. Here are five ways to reduce your heating costs and make your basement more inviting in the winter months. Seal air leaks. Cracks and gaps tend to happen, especially in rim […]

Whether your preparing to move or preparing for the winter, it’s time to downsize your clutter.  Here are some helpful tips to get you headed in the right direction! If you don’t use it 80% of the time, toss it. One of idea is tossing (or donating) all impulsive or experimental purchases, as well as getting rid of any pieces that are so specific that they’re impractical.  Think of all those holiday decorations you swore […]

Often first-time home buyers are unaware of what is needed before finding the perfect home.  Asking real estate questions can be scary and some find themselves to embarrassed to ask for help.  Here is some advice to first-time home buyers regarding what is needed and why. Check your credit- If credit is below a 580, raising your score may be your number one priority. Often a score of 660 will give you access to most […]

TO GRANITE OR NOT TO GRANITE? One of the most popular materials for kitchen countertops is granite due to its durability and appearance. Did you know that some granite countertops emit radon? Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that occurs with the natural breakdown of rocks and natural stones. Are granite countertops a risk? Research shows that only a minimal and acceptable amount of radon is emitted. Granite is not a risk because it […]

SINGLE HOMEBUYER Since 2011, single women account for 17% and single men account for 7% of buyers. Here are some tips to help single homebuyers: Don’t house hunt alone. Take a friend or family member that is familiar with home buying. Consider future household additions. These can affect square footage, yard space, and safety needs. Also, consider renovations and employment changes. Add up annual maintenance expenses. Reports of costs can be provided by sellers. If […]