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!
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, they will 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!
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!
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!
Something all homeowners dread: potential damage. As you know, the earlier you spot a problem, the sooner you can fix it. Here's what to look for.
💡 Flickering lights. If the light bulb is screwed in tight, and it's a new bulb, flickering could signal there's something wrong with the electrical. The wires may be loose, or you are using more electricity than the home is designed to handle.
💧 Slow drains. Of course, drains sometimes get clogged. But if it's happening in all the drains at the same time, you may have a sewer backup. That requires a plumber's quick intervention.
🖌️ Peeling paint. Sometimes this is just a low-quality paint job. But if there is moisture around the areas that are peeling, you may have a leak.
🚫 Ceiling stains, damaged shingles, mold on exterior walls. These are all signs your roof is aging and in need of repair or replacement.
If you have questions about how home issues affect your financing, reach out to me!
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!
