Deciding between renting and owning? Consider the facts before choosing:
🏘️ When you RENT:
- Your monthly payment will likely increase.
- You are limited in customizing your home.
- You will likely pay rent, fees and a security deposit.
- You build your landlord's wealth.
🔑 When you OWN:
- Your monthly payment is locked in.
- You have the freedom to customize your home.
- You will likely own a down payment and closing costs.
- You build your own wealth.
No matter which route you pick, it's important to make an educated decision based on the following questions:
💲 What can you afford?
🏠 How long do you plan to stay in the home?
❓ Do you want stability or flexibility?
🛠️ Can you afford to be responsible for home repairs/maintenance?
🥇 What are your financial, career and family goals?
Still on the fence? Let's talk about it.
Send me a message to discuss your options!
If your credit is lower than you'd like, there are many ways you can boost it up! Follow my steps to a higher credit score so you can stop worrying and start working towards qualifying for the best terms on loans and credit cards.
Take the pain out of the mortgage process with on-demand approvals, free MLS access and virtual closings - letting you sign documents from anywhere. Close from a coffee shop, your couch or out by the pool! Ready to get started? Send me a message!
At home, you use energy every day, but cutting back is a lot easier than you might think. Often it means making a few changes in your habits, which in turn, will help you lower your bills and have a positive impact on the environment. Check out some of my top energy saving tips!
So you want to buy a house. Great! Now what? Use my quick hit list to gather the main documents you'll need:
📄 Tax returns
📄 Pay stubs, W-2s or other proof of income
📄 Bank statements and other assets
📄 Credit history
📄 Photo ID
📄 Renting history
Ready to get started? Send me a message!
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
PRE-QUALIFICATION is the first step in the mortgage process. This is where you meet informally with a loan officer to go over your income and liabilities. Based on the information you provide, you’ll be able to give you a rough estimate as to how much money you'll be able to borrow. That estimate is not a sure thing, however.
During the formal mortgage PRE-APPROVAL process, you’ll fill out a mortgage application and provide some documents that detail your income and credit. From here, a home loan amount can be determined.
BOTTOM LINE: If you’re ready to start your search now, let Wyndham Capital get you started the right way with our Automated Pre-Approvals. Real-time, property-specific approvals available anywhere and anytime. Send me a message to get started now!
Today, I'll be talking about something that's probably in your home already: plants. It's always a great way to liven up your home. A bit of greenery keeps you in touch with nature and makes your living areas comfortable and cozy. However, it's important to think about two important factors when it comes to plants: air quality and pet-friendliness.
1. Air Quality. Did you know some houseplants can actually improve air quality? As you probably remember from grade school biology, plants give off oxygen and take in CO2. Aloe Vera, Lady Palm, and Bamboo are just three examples of house plants that make your air particularly breathable.
2. Plants & Pets. Did you know some plants are toxic to pets? Dogs and cats can get very sick from common houseplants. Check out the ASPCA for a list of toxic greenery. In the meantime, choose a Boston fern or spider plant -- they are non-toxic for felines and canines.
Have any other questions about home tips & tricks? Send me a message today!
Even if you plan to call in the experts to do major work on your home, there's always a time when you can perform a simple fix or take a closer look at potential issues in your home.
There are several tools you should have to help. These items make sure you can reach your roof; repair holes in walls; hang pictures on your walls; and numerous other home repair and design jobs.
· Ladder
· Tape measure
· Pliers, standard and vise-grip
· Screwdrivers, screws, nuts, and bolts
· Level
· Stud finder
· Hammer, nails
· Wire cutters
· Cordless drill
· Utility blades
· Putty knife and spackle
You don't have to be a handyperson to be a homeowner -- but in a pinch, it helps to have the tools. At Wyndham Capital, we're your go-to source for financial information. Send me a message about your home financing now!
How Long Does it Take to Buy a House?
The amount of time it takes when buying a house varies. If all goes well, you can have it done in six months--check out this timeline below.
6 Months Before Buying a Home
- Save for a down payment
- Review your credit
- Determine the size and price of your home
2-3 Months Before Buying a Home
- Work with a lender and become familiar with the area in which you are looking to purchase
- Get your pre-approval letter
- Partner with a local real estate agent to schedule showings of home in which you are interested
- Make an offer
1-2 Months Before Buying a Home
- The escrow process typically takes 30-45 days, which leaves you with little time to tie up loose ends and prepare to move.
- Your real estate agent will contact you to schedule your final walk-through when escrow closes.
- Sign the final paperwork and get your keys!
Learn more about this timeline on the Wyndham Capital blog here: https://wynd.am/how-long-buy
Ready to get started? Send me a message today!
HOW TO LABEL YOUR BREAKER BOX:
You may have to use your breaker box if a circuit is tripped, or to shut off power to certain areas of your home to perform repairs.
Step 1: Turn on whatever you can in your home.
Step 2: Turn off one breaker.
Step 3: Note what items in your home lose power.
Step 4: Label the breaker with the items.
Step 5: Repeat for all remaining breakers.
BONUS TIP: Use real names for items and areas. For example, label a breaker "south-facing bedroom," instead of "baby's room," to avoid confusion among emergency crews or anyone not familiar with your home. Be sure to label using permanent marker so it doesn't fade.
Your home is your most valuable financial asset. Don't hesitate to be in touch if you need help to keep it safe. Send me a message today!
