5 Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Fixer-Upper Home

Purchasing a fixer-upper property can be an exciting and rewarding experience. HGTV is filled with programs of amateurs knocking down walls and tiling bathroom floors. The fact is that this is much harder than it looks and before diving headfirst into this kind of project, it’s critical to consider whether you are prepared for the venture.

5 Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Fixer-Upper Home

1. Financial Planning – The first step in buying a fixer-upper home is to establish a realistic budget. Include the purchase price, repairs costs, and any expected expenses for renovation or restoration. Once you have created a “known” list, then add extra for unexpected issues that will arise.

2. Time and Effort – Renovating a fixer-upper takes time and effort, even if you hire a general contractor to oversee the project. Consider the overall scope of the project and evaluate your skills and level of time commitment.

3. Structural Condition – Before making an offer, thoroughly inspect the property’s structure and foundation. Recognize the impact of any issues uncovered and make sure to budget for the proper corrections.

4. Real Estate Market and Location – Even a beautiful home in a terrible area is a bad investment. Consider such factors as property values, market trends and the potential for future appreciation. Work with a financial planner to make sure the investment fits your long-term goals.

5. Legal Considerations – Before writing the offer, familiarize yourself with local building codes, permit requirements, and zoning regulations. Ensure the changes you anticipate align with local requirements.

Purchasing a fixer-upper home can be a wonderful investment and worthwhile project. By evaluating your budget, time commitment, property condition, and potential appreciation, you can be sure to choose the right situation for your goals and experience

Unusual but Important Considerations When Choosing the Right Neighborhood

Most people know that choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important aspects of a great lifestyle. When buying a new home, this becomes even more important. While everyone knows that property values, safety, schools, and commute ranks high in importance, there are some considerations that are not commonly thought about in advance yet make a huge impact on satisfaction.

· Vibrant Community and Social Scene – While some people are looking for a quiet life in the country, for those craving more action, consider this when choosing a neighborhood. Look for farmer’s markets, art galleries, festivals, bars and clubs, community events; ways to create a sense of belonging and involvement. ·

Pet-Friendly Environment – For pet owners, finding a welcoming community for their furry friends is important. Look for places with lots of green space, dog parks, and pet-friendly establishments.

· Unique Architectural or Historic Value – There are many cities with historical districts and heritage sites. Buying a home in these areas can be a distinctly inspiring experience. One caveat, before buying, it’s important to make sure to understand the rules and restrictions; often there are ordinances which prevent changing the exterior of the home.

· Natural Surroundings – For nature enthusiasts, living near green spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities can be important. In addition to community parks, trails, or lakes, these buyers should consider proximity to national parks, BLM land, or public waterways.

· Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Communities – If environmental sustainability is important, then look for communities with eco-friendly policies and amenities. Watch for communal gardens, bike lanes, and renewable energy initiatives.

Choosing the right neighborhood is about more than just property values and school systems. By looking beyond the traditional aspects and considering the unique things that enhance lifestyle, buyers can make sure that the community, as well as the home, suits their needs.

Have You Hired the Wrong Agent?

Just the title of this article will make professional real estate agents cringe because they have heard it before. While most agents offer strong and vigorous representation, occasionally sellers run into one that just isn’t meeting the expectations. The good news is that even if you’ve signed a contract with one of these agents, you may not be stuck.

The first step is to realize that you picked the wrong agent. Ask yourself:

· Is my agent properly marketing my home for sale?

o Did they use professional photographers, videographers or drone providers? o Is my home listed on all the public search websites?

o Are they holding open houses for the public and real estate agent showcase?

· Did my agent offer a complete market analysis?

o Did you see comparable properties that sold recently?

o Are you priced competitively?

· Does your agent respond quickly to other agents and to you? ·

How often do you hear from your agent? A couple of times a week should be the minimum.

· Do you get quick feedback after a showing? Most importantly, do you still have questions that are still unanswered by your agent?

If any of these questions sound familiar, you may have hired the wrong agent. Good news though, you have options. Immediately contact the managing broker for your agent – they can be found in the office where your agent works. Explain your concerns and ask for help. Your contract is with the brokerage, and not the specific agent. They may reassign your listing to another agent or may cancel if it makes sense.

If you suspect you’ve hired the wrong agent, talk to the broker and resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Wasting time can only cost you money.

Solar Rings – Cheap and Eco-Friendly Pool Heating

Everyone is looking for ways to save on energy costs. Many people have had to change the way they behave – larger laundry loads, fewer lights in the evening, fans vs air conditioning – and even more have looked to alternative options, such as solar. These methods are not always easy or inexpensive, at least not up front. The great news is that there is an inexpensive and eco-friendly way to heat your pool this summer and save hundreds of dollars in the process by using solar pool rings.

Solar pool rings are floating devices that contain UV-resistant vinyl material that traps the heat to warm the pool without using the heater. The rings are made of 2 layers. The top layer guides the sun to the lower layer which converts the rays to heat. Not only do these rings effectively trap and disperse heat to the water, but they also reduce evaporation, saving money on water bills.

Solar pool rings can also be effective as barriers against backyard debris, which can throw the chemical balance off. Solar pool rings typically come in sets of 6 and most pools can be covered for less than about $400. They are simple to inflate/deflate for storage and are suitable for all pool types. While solar rings will never heat a pool as quickly as a pool heater, with regular use and plenty of sunshine, these devices save money and extend the pool season in most climates.

“Date the Rate and Marry the House” – Is This Still a Good Idea?

You’ve heard the old expression, “Date the Rate but Marry the House.” The idea is that you can always refinance the loan, but the right house may not come around again. But with rising interest rates and falling home inventory, many buyers are wondering if this mantra still rings true. Should you marry the house at whatever interest rate is available?

First, the US lending market has been experiencing record low interest rates. In May of 2000 saw the 30-year fixed rate rise to an average of 8.6% before falling to 6.5% in July of 2008. Historically, any long-term interest rate under 6.5% was considered exceptional. The pattern of rising and falling interest rates has been repeated multiple times in the past 40 years and likely will continue.

While purchasing an unaffordable home with the hope of refinancing quickly into a lower rate is a poor strategy, so is waiting on the home that you like or need if you can manage the payment. A simple truth of the housing market is that as rates increase, home values usually decrease as more buyers are forced from the market. This offers the opportunity for buyers to find a home previously unaffordable. When rates do decline, they can refinance for even more savings.

The concept of “Date the Rate and Marry the House” is not new. Home buyers in this real estate climate need to be more intentional about the home they choose and the costs incurred. Rates will most likely increase before they fall, so weighing the lower home price to the higher interest rate is a personal decision to be taken carefully.

10 Most Common Home Buyer Questions

Buying a new home is exciting and confusing. There are a lot of steps to buying a home, and people have questions. These are the most common questions home buyers have, and the answers.

1. How do I get started? – The first step is to speak with a lender and get a pre-approval. This will tell you, and potential sellers, how much you can afford.

2. How long does it take to close on a home? – Typically, it takes about 30-45 days once contracts are signed to complete the lending, appraisal, and inspection processes.

3. What does my agent do? – A buyer’s agent will negotiate terms and manage the closing process from start to finish.

4. How much do I pay for a buyer’s agent? – Nothing. The seller’s agent gives the buyer’s agent a portion of their commission from the seller.

5. What credit score do I need to qualify? – A 620 FICO score or higher is required for most home loan programs. Talk to a lender for other options for lower scores.

6. How much money do I need for a down payment? – It varies. FHA loans start as low as 3% and most lenders offer standard programs for a 5% down payment.

7. What other fees will I need to pay? – Closing costs and loan origination fees will add another 2-4% to the costs.

8. What if I change my mind? – Your agent will work with you to build in contingencies for conditions, loan terms/approval, and other protections to allow you time to evaluate the home during escrow.

9. When do I get the keys? – Unless you’ve negotiated extra time for the sellers to move, you’ll get the keys at the closing.

10. What’s the best advice for home buyers? – Trust the experts and ask lots of questions.

Buying a new home is exciting. Reduce any anxiety by finding a good buyer’s agent who can help you make the best choice for your needs. COnnect with Stacy Borroto, Broker at The OC Nest specializing in Orange County Real Estate since 2007.

Basics of a Successful 1031 Exchange

A 1031 Exchange is a potential option for investors who may be interested in deferring taxes when selling an investment property. By reinvesting the proceeds into another investment property, investors have the opportunity to take advantage of real estate market opportunities without having to pay taxes on their profits immediately. It is important to note, however, that this strategy comes with strict rules that must be followed carefully in order to ensure a successful exchange.

In order to be considered for a 1031 Exchange, the properties involved may need to be investments and not for personal use. Additionally, it is generally required that the properties be like-kind, although they do not have to be exactly identical.

There are many different types of investments that could potentially qualify for a 1031 Exchange. For instance, an investor may choose to exchange a multi-family apartment complex for a shopping center, or a commercial office building for a rental property. Ultimately, the specific circumstances of each investor's situation will determine whether or not a 1031 Exchange is the right choice.

The timing of a 1031 Exchange is crucial, and investors should aim to identify a replacement property within 45 days of selling the original property, with the exchange being completed within 180 days of the sale.

Working with experienced real estate professionals who have knowledge and expertise in 1031 Exchange transactions can be helpful, as mistakes can be costly if the rules are not followed precisely. While a 1031 Exchange can be a valuable strategy for investors, it is important to keep in mind that individual circumstances can vary, and it may be wise to seek personalized tax advice from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or tax advisor to determine if this strategy is suitable for a particular investor.

Click on the link below if your interested in investing.

6 Tips for a Sustainable Home

Creating a sustainable environment is on the top of everyone’s mind these days. From Disney to Poland, policies that save energy and resources are important ways to reduce waste and help the planet. Your home can be part of this effort as well. With a few small changes, you can create a more sustainable home. 6 Tips for a Sustainable Home

1. Solar Panels – Using solar panels to generate electricity is a great way to save money on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Switch to LED Lighting – LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Making the switch can save you 80% of your typical lighting cost.

3. Install a Programmable Thermostat – Smart home products can help manage energy use. A programmable thermostat can save money on heating and cooling bills by automatically reducing use when not needed.

4. Reduce Water Consumption – You can save water by simple adjustments. High-efficiency appliances and low-flow showerheads are quick changes that don’t affect your lifestyle.

5. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products – The market is flooded with green alternatives to the harsh chemical cleaners we’re used to. These eco-friendly cleaning products are better for your health as well as the planet.

6. Energy-Efficient Windows – Installing energy efficient windows can also help lower heating and cooling costs. They also reduce noise pollution and improve indoor air quality.

By making a few changes, you can create a more sustainable, energy-efficient home. Save money and reduce the negative impact on the environment by trying these easy ideas to lower your carbon footprint.

Advantages of a Multi-Generational Home

The concept of multi-generational living has been gaining popularity in recent years as more and more Americans are choosing to share their homes with family members of different ages.

For one, financial considerations play a significant role in the rise of multi-generational living. Younger people who may struggle to afford their own homes are increasingly opting to live with their parents or grandparents in order to save on housing costs. This can be especially appealing in expensive urban areas where housing prices are sky-high. At the same time, older parents or grandparents may prefer to live with their families rather than in assisted living facilities, which can be costly.

In addition to financial benefits, multi-generational living also offers emotional support and companionship to family members of different ages. In the past, several generations often lived together and supported each other emotionally and practically. Nowadays, families are rediscovering the benefits of this approach to living. Older family members can offer help and guidance to younger generations, while also receiving care and assistance when needed. This can be especially valuable as family members age and face health issues or other challenges.

Furthermore, multi-generational living can foster a sense of community and interdependence. By sharing a home and living space, family members of different ages can develop stronger bonds and a deeper sense of connection. This can be especially important for children, who benefit from having close relationships with grandparents or other older relatives.

As the trend towards multi-generational living grows, homeowners are finding creative ways to accommodate the different needs and preferences of family members. One popular option is the use of tiny home-style "granny flats," which offer a self-contained living space that is connected to the main house. This allows older family members to have their own space while still being close to their loved ones.

While multi-generational living may require some adjustments and compromises, many families are finding that it is a rewarding and beneficial way to live. It offers financial benefits, emotional support, and a stronger sense of community and interdependence. As such, it is no surprise that this trend is on the rise and is likely to continue to grow in the years to come.

Is This a “Normal” Real Estate Market Yet?

The events of the last few years disrupted almost every facet of our lives and the real estate market was no exception. Buyers and sellers across the country have experienced a market more volatile and unpredictable and are wondering if we will ever return to normal? Will the tougher economic times ahead help balance the real estate market?

As interest rates rise to slow the economy, the housing market is feeling the shift. Gone are the cheap loans and quick home sales. Today’s buyers have the luxury of being choosier and sellers must again offer their homes at a reasonable price in good condition. While this “feels” like a normal market condition, is it?

The essence of a “normal” real estate market would be predictability and confidence, but we are not seeing this yet. True, the slowing economy and rising interest rates have moved us away from the frantic pace of the past few years, but experts question whether this means a traditional “buyers’ market.”

The pandemic changed the way we work, and where, also. People around the world are moving. With remote working a normal occurrence, people can live anywhere they want. Cities are emptying out and some states are seeing an influx of new residents anxious to avoid high-tax states.

With all these added elements, the real estate market may not return to the “normal”, more predictable patterns we’re accustomed to for years, maybe never. For consumers, the most important thing is to make the right decision for their families. There are opportunities in every market, even if it doesn’t feel “normal.”

3 TIPS... What Not to Say When Someone Asks Why You’re Selling

The minute you list your home, everyone will want to know why. You will hear from your neighbors, family members, and friends. Of course, there is no harm in speaking freely with family and friends but be careful what you tell your neighbors and especially the buyers and their agents who visit your listing.

First, it’s no one’s business but your own. You are not obligated to share personal information with anyone, and you must be especially careful when speaking with potential buyers. If they sense desperation, this will affect the kind of offer they write.

A simple, “we are ready for a change,” is a great response to anyone who doesn’t need to know. How you answer is less important than avoiding the wrong answers. ·

“I got a new job” – Job offers or transfers are a common reason for a move. These moves often come with deadlines which alerts buyers that you need a quick sale, and may be willing to compromise on price to get one.

· “We need a bigger house” – It’s perfectly understandable that a growing family needs more space. Telling a buyer this, however, may cause them to question the size of the home and if it’s too small for them also.

· “We want to lower our costs” – This may just be a simple downsizing after the kids have left, but talking about affordability is a red flag to buyers. Is the home too expensive? Is the price too high? Energy bills too high? Upkeep too much?

Successfully selling a home is more than just marketing. The best course of action is to limit divulging too much personal information about your situation, but if you do, be mindful of how much you say. Be pleasant, but do not overshare, it may cost you in the end.

Tips for Touring Listings with Children

Searching for a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a stressful experience, especially when you have young children in tow. It can be difficult to keep them entertained and engaged while you're trying to focus on evaluating potential properties. However, with a bit of planning and preparation, it is possible to make touring properties with children a more enjoyable and successful experience.

In this blog post, we'll share some tips and tricks to help you navigate the process and find your dream home while keeping your little ones entertained and happy.

Simple Tips for Touring Listings with Children

· Be Safe – First and foremost, it’s important to keep your children safe. Do not assume that the home is child-proof, in fact, assume the opposite. Kids love to poke around. Be aware that there could be dangerous chemicals and products within their reach. Medicine cabinets could have potent drugs and cleaning supplies may be under the sink.

· Be Respectful – Often family homes have toys and other children’s items within easy reach but it’s important to keep your own kids from playing with these toys. It may be a tempting way to avoid boredom, but be respectful of the home.

· Plan Ahead – Remember that your children may be bored or hungry. Plan ahead; keep food and drink in the car to snack on between showings or consider taking turns with a spouse to allow the children to stay in the car with toys or videos. Finally, if you can, limit the amount of time you are out looking at homes.

Touring properties with children can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it can also be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. By keeping your children engaged and entertained, you can focus on evaluating potential properties and finding your dream home. Remember to plan ahead, bring snacks and toys, and involve your children in the process. With these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect home for you and your family.

Creative Ideas for Decorating Your Home on a Budget

Decorating your home can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be a costly one. However, with a bit of creativity and some DIY skills, you can decorate your home on a budget and still achieve the look you want. In this blog post, we'll share some creative ideas for decorating your home on a budget.

Shop Secondhand One of the easiest ways to decorate your home on a budget is to shop secondhand. You can find some incredible deals on furniture and decor items at thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces. Don't be afraid to haggle a bit to get an even better deal. You may also want to consider attending estate sales, where you can often find unique and high-quality pieces at a fraction of their original cost.

Repurpose and Upcycle Another way to save money on home decor is to repurpose and upcycle items you already own or find secondhand. For example, you can turn an old ladder into a stylish bookshelf or a set of vintage suitcases into unique side tables. With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can transform almost anything into a decorative and functional piece for your home.

Use Wall Art Adding wall art to your home is an easy and affordable way to add some color and personality to your walls. You don't have to spend a lot of money on original artwork; there are plenty of affordable prints, posters, and photographs available online. You can also create your own wall art by framing fabric swatches, postcards, or even pages from old books.

Add Plants Plants are an inexpensive and easy way to bring some life and color into your home. You can find a variety of affordable indoor plants at your local nursery or online. If you're on a really tight budget, you can even propagate plants from cuttings or rescue plants from the clearance section at your local nursery.

Use Textiles Another way to add some color and texture to your home is to use textiles. You can find affordable throw pillows, blankets, and rugs at discount stores, online retailers, and even thrift stores. You can also create your own textiles by sewing your own pillow covers or weaving your own rugs.

Create a Gallery Wall Creating a gallery wall is a fun and easy way to display your favorite photos and artwork. You can use a variety of frames and matting styles to create a cohesive and stylish look. You can also mix in other decorative items, such as mirrors and wall-mounted shelves.

DIY Your Furniture If you're feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at DIY furniture projects. There are plenty of tutorials and plans available online for everything from coffee tables to bed frames. Not only can you save money by making your own furniture, but you can also create unique pieces that reflect your personal style.

In conclusion, decorating your home on a budget is a fun and rewarding experience that doesn't have to break the bank. By shopping secondhand, repurposing and upcycling, using wall art and textiles, adding plants, creating a gallery wall, and DIYing your furniture, you can create a beautiful and personalized home without spending a fortune.

FICO Shock? Your Lender Can Help with a Rapid Rescore

If you’re ready to buy a new home, you know that a good FICO score is critical to the process. Your FICO affects not just your ability to buy a new home, but the interest rate and fees you’ll pay for the new loan. Often, buyers are shocked to realize their credit score is not as high as they thought. Even borrowers who always pay their bills on time can be surprised by a lower FICO score when they apply for a loan. Fortunately, your lender can help with a rapid rescore process.

A rapid rescore is initiated by your lender to boost your FICO in days. Most lenders offer this service and will start by reviewing your credit report with you. Lenders use what’s known as the “middle score,” in determining risk. There are three credit bureaus – Transunion, Equifax, and Experian – and they each calculate your score a little differently. The middle score is used for most home loans as your FICO.

Your lender has a program which can estimate your rescore based on removing false reporting or lowering the balance on a credit card. Even paying off one card can raise your score by 20+ points, enough to make a huge difference in your mortgage interest rate. Once the steps are determined and taken, they then request the credit bureaus to verify the report. This takes a few days. Then the new score will be available to the lender to use for your loan.

If you are considering a new home loan, it’s important to know your credit score ahead of time, when you can still correct mistakes. But, if you are already in the process, your lender may be able to use the rapid rescore process to quickly increase your score and offer you a better loan.

10 Things to Remove from Your Home When Listing for Sale

One of the most common questions from home sellers is, “do I really need to put my family pictures away”? The short answer is “yes,” but maybe not for the reasons you assume. The general principle is that buyers need to be able to visualize their own lives in the home in order to buy the house. There is nothing new about this, but in this complicated age of security challenges, there are also safety reasons to remove your items before showings.

10 Things to Remove

1. Excess Furniture – Consider removing extra chairs, ottomans, side tables, etc., anything unnecessary.

2. Family Photos – You do not know who is coming through your home; protect your family by removing any identifiable pictures, awards, certificates, etc.

3. Religious Art/Collectables – Some people may be offended by these kinds of items. Better to avoid issues.

4. Laptops and Cell Phones – Anything easily picked up and removed should be safely stowed.

5. Jewelry – Again, anything of value should be secured out of sight.

6. Important Files and Papers – Hide any papers that may have banking or social security numbers that can be used for fraudulent purposes.

7. Firearms – Protect yourself and others by securing any firearms.

8. Clutter – Nothing new here, keep the home clean.

5 Trendy Tips to Enhance a Small Porch

Who doesn’t love the idea of a front porch? Picture a cool lemonade in the shade on a hot summer’s day while watching the world go by. Home builders have embraced this ideal over the past couple decades with more new construction featuring this timeless feature. Often though, the size of the porch seems to make it more of an idea than a usable space.

But even a modest-sized porch can be an inviting place to relax. Here are 5 trendy ideas to try this weekend to enhance a small porch.

1. Outdoor Furniture – Any porch can accommodate some kind of furniture. It may be a modest bench or a small outdoor couch, but adding a sitting option is an instant plus.

2. Pillows – Soften the look of the space and create a welcoming impression by adding pillows or blankets to the sitting area. Vary the color and style by season using weather-proof fabrics.

3. Potted Plants – Small containers or size-appropriate edges of flowers or bushes add softness and interest to any front porch. Plants allow the space to integrate with the rest of the front yard.

4. Color – Play with the color of both the furnishings and plants to draw the eye of the observer. Soft pastels paired with a bold splash will move the viewer’s eye around the space, creating the illusion of more room.

5. Remove Clutter – Finally, remove anything unnecessary and keep the porch cleared of debris or overgrown plants.

A front porch should lure one in. Even a small porch can be a pleasant place to relax, read, or refresh with just a few small changes.

2023 Market Predictions

The real estate industry is in for a wild ride over the next year, according to the Realtor.com's 2023 Housing Market Predications Report. This forecast predicts an overall positive outlook with ongoing growth, but it also acknowledges that several regional markets are more volatile than others and may not experience consistent gains.

The report notes that there are some headwinds to sustained growth, particularly in regions affected by the pandemic and its economic fallout. Tightening credit conditions, an already low inventory of homes for sale, and historically high lumber costs may all put pressure on affordability and slow the housing market's progress.

The good news is that many markets have been resilient and there are signs of optimism as the economy recovers. Realtor.com expects that home prices and sales activity will continue to rise in most markets, albeit at a slower pace. Affordability is projected to remain a challenge for some buyers, however, as potential buyers may have difficulty securing financing.

The report also predicts an increase in rental activity over the next year as renters take advantage of more affordable housing options and the flexibility that comes with not having to commit to a longer-term mortgage agreement. This could spell good news for investors looking to capitalize on these shifting trends.

Overall, the 2023 National Housing Forecast predicts a continued rise in housing prices, though certain regional markets may be more volatile than others. It also forecasts an increase in rental activity as renters take advantage of the flexibility that comes with renting. All of this suggests a vibrant and dynamic real estate market going into 2023, so it’s important to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest trends.

No matter where you are in your real estate journey, it’s important to stay abreast of the fluctuating market conditions. By doing so, you can ensure that you’re making informed decisions and leveraging the best opportunities available to you. With a comprehensive understanding of the current market conditions and the changing trends, you can make sure that you’re making the most of your investments and positioning yourself for success.

5 Modern Details to Update Your Traditional Living Room

Here are 5 cool modern accents you can use to update your living room this weekend.

1. Hyperrealism Art – This art form mimics traditional realistic photography or art, but is designed to evoke an emotion rather than just recreate the scene. Emotional pieces of any kind provide a unique focus to the room.

2. Modern Accent Chair – An accent piece of furniture, such as a chair or table, can immediately add depth to the room. It can be a unique shape or texture; anything that breaks with the overall style of the room.

3. Modern Art Décor – Pillows and vases are a simple way to update a room. Consider adding a low sleek vase for a single rose or perhaps a knot-shaped pillow on the floor by the fireplace.

4. Curves – Soft curved lines are gaining popularity. Gone are the sleek, harsh lines of the past few years. Add a simple round mirror to a corner wall to not only add softness, but a mirror expands the area and reflects light, brightening the room.

5. Extra-Large Lighting – Design magazines are featuring giant, oversized paper lanterns. These can be colorful and boho or soft colored and subtle, but a fun and inexpensive way to add a quick update to a traditional living area.

Whatever you decide, there are endless ways to create a more eclectic living room while giving your home a boost this season.

6 Factors That Could Damage Your Credit Score

Having good credit is essential for a number of aspects of your life, ranging from the interest rate on a car loan or credit card to background checks for employment. Poor credit can be incredibly expensive, costing you thousands of dollars in higher interest rates over the course of a home loan. Fortunately, with proper care and attention paid to your finances, it is possible to maintain a good credit rating.

Here are six factors that could damage your credit score:

1. Not paying your bills on time - Bills not paid within 30 days can be reported to the credit bureaus.

2. Utilizing all of your available credit on credit cards - It is important to not max out your credit cards without a plan to pay them off.

3. Not having a diverse mix of credit - Having different types of credit, such as car loans and revolving credit, could help improve your score.

4. Applying for too much credit - Multiple applications for credit cards in a short period of time can be a bad sign.

5. Not using credit at all - You must show that you can responsibly use and manage credit in order to maintain a good score. 6. Closing credit cards - Keeping long-term accounts open is important, as closing them removes the positive history from your report.

Good credit is especially essential when searching for a new home or home loan. Having a good credit score can make the difference between having your loan accepted and being declined. Poor credit is preventable if you pay attention to the above mentioned criteria, so be sure to stay on top of your finances to ensure success.

Ceiling Design Ideas that Add Impact

For most people, the only effort they place into the ceiling design is removing the old popcorn treatment. While this is certainly an important first step, there are many ways to use the ceiling to add interest and impact to any room.

Considered the “fifth wall” by designers, ceiling design changes can be either subtle or dramatic. Browse through any home décor magazine and notice the ceiling treatments. Often, they feature bold colors or textures that go somewhat unnoticed by the viewer. Bedrooms, living rooms, and even bathrooms are prime targets for a makeover. Here are 5 great options to try out in your home.

1. Bold Color – Contrary to popular opinion, a dark or strong color on the ceiling does not make the room look smaller. In fact, the use of a color on the ceiling invites the eye to move around the room and creates another interesting space.

2. Brighten Monotone Rooms – If you are planning to keep the room monotone, with soft whites or beiges, add more white tone to the ceiling to add some depth to the room.

3. Molding – Add an interesting molding to the ceiling. You can create an elegant surrounding with a chandelier, for example.

4. Add Some Shine – Contrast a matte wall with a high-gloss ceiling in bold color. Perfect to brighten any room.

5. Metallic Options – You’ve seen the pressed metal ceilings in old bars or restaurants, but there are also more subtle modern treatments that bring an element of industrial design to a space. There are so many ways to create a more interesting design story by using the ceiling.

There is no reason not to try something dramatic that can give any room a fresh look.