17 Things to Never, Ever, EVER Do to Your House

17 Things to Never, Ever, EVER Do to Your House

What may seem like a good idea, often isn’t. Here are 17 common mistakes new homeowners often make. #1 Get Rid of Your Only Tub If resale value is important to you, don’t get rid of your only bathtub no matter how dreamy that walk-in shower looks. It will...
Should I Sell My House or Rent It?

Should I Sell My House or Rent It?

When your current home no longer suits you, selling it is a popular option. But in some cases, turning it into a rental home might make more sense. There are lots of factors to consider when making the “sell vs. rent my home” decision, including: Your financial...
Do Swimming Pools Add Value to Homes?

Do Swimming Pools Add Value to Homes?

You can picture it now: cocktails in hand as you sit by the pool, grill fired up for an al-fresco dinner so it’ll be easy to dive back in before dessert. But you’re getting an inkling that the cost might be a bit more than you thought, and now you’re...
Hey, Buyers: These Home Appraisal Tips Are for You

Hey, Buyers: These Home Appraisal Tips Are for You

Most people have deeply personal reasons for wanting to buy a home. Maybe it’s the bathroom that feels like a dreamy, modern spa. Or that two-tiered deck just made for parties. Your lender doesn’t care about the freestanding tub. Or the built-in outdoor fire pit....
How Long Is That Remodel Going to Take?

How Long Is That Remodel Going to Take?

Renovations can take weeks — and sometimes months. That means endless days of subcontractors traipsing through your home, noisy tools, and major dust. Even some minor projects can disrupt your daily routine. Before you begin to remodel, know what’s in store for...
How to Check for Flood Risk During Home Buying

How to Check for Flood Risk During Home Buying

You’ve found the perfect home — sunny kitchen, the right number of bathrooms, and a big, beautiful yard. And then someone mentions a case of flooding in the area — far from any major body of water. You start wondering, Could my dream home be at risk for flood damage?...
What to Expect During a Home Inspection

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

The first thing you need to know about home inspection: You’ll feel all the feels. There’s the excitement — the inspection could be the longest time you’re in the house, after the showing. Right behind that comes … anxiety. What if the inspector finds something wrong?...
Mold. Ugh. Here’s How to Kill It Forever

Mold. Ugh. Here’s How to Kill It Forever

Ugh. Mold. It’s ugly. It’s tenacious. It’s the uninvited guest that keeps visiting — no matter how rude you are to it. But, unwittingly, you may be setting up the perfect conditions for mold’s return: a food source, lots of moisture, and a...
35 Money-Saving Household Habits

35 Money-Saving Household Habits

Your house gives you so much: security, pride, shelter. With all that on the line, it’s easy to assume the costs of keeping it up just are what they are. But wait. There are plenty of expenses that are simply a waste. Here’s how to save money each month...