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Eight ways to remodel a kitchen

When considering home improvements to increase your property’s value, it’s natural to wonder which areas will yield the best return on investment. Kitchen and bathroom upgrades often top the list of renovations that attract buyer interest and potentially increase home value. Kitchens, in particular, are a focal point for many homebuyers. Here are some timeless…
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Why an escrow account is good for every buyer

Buying a home is one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make, and it should be no surprise therefore that some administrative elements of your real estate deal are quite technical. These processes have been put in place to protect buyers and their money. Buyers probably ask me more questions about having to establish…
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How to stop fixtures disappearing before you move in

It may sound crazy, but some sellers will try to remove real estate fixtures from their property after they’ve sold it to you. Stories of new owners arriving at their dream home to find light fittings missing or roses pulled from the flowerbeds are becoming increasingly common. Some sellers seem to have developed strong attachments…
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Create a great lawn with minimum effort

The excitement of finally living in your own home cannot be overstated for first-home buyers. It’s one of the most exciting times of your life, while also not without challenges and learning experiences. One lesson you learn quickly is how to manage your garden, especially if you’re moving in during the late spring and summer…
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Essential documents for loan applications

Applying for your first mortgage can be nerve-wracking. How much a lender is prepared to offer you will determine whether you can afford to buy a suitable property in your target location. It is also important to understand that your lender will only issue the loan after valuing the property you want to buy and…
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Eight tips to keep your bathroom renovation on track

Few investments will give you better payback than a bathroom renovation. In our experience, homes with renovated bathrooms will sell for a higher price and be snapped up faster than you might typically expect. If you go down the rip-and-replace path, then you have an array of choices in terms of the style, colors and…
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How to keep your home safe and clean

We all like to think of our homes as a sanctuary, safe from the trials and troubles of the world around us.  But dangers to our health can lurk in the darkest corners and, sometimes, right in plain sight. Keeping a clean home contributes significantly to the maintenance and value of your property, as well…
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Five tips for young property investors

Achieving long-term financial security through property investment has become increasingly popular as prices hit record levels across much of America. Young people are getting into the investment game, recognising the possible long-term growth potential of the sector and its capacity to generate a lifetime of wealth.  Many begin their investment journey by holding on to…
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How to shrink credit card debt before mortgage shopping

More than half of America carries credit card debt, incurring super-high interest rates on an average outstanding balance of $6000. Meanwhile, home loan rates are at record lows. If you’re a first-time buyer seeking a mortgage, the debt on your plastic is no small matter. It hurts your credit rating and directly impacts the amount…
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Even in a strong market, sellers need to focus

The challenge of a seller’s market is that it can lull you into a false sense of security.  It’s easy to adopt a relaxed attitude in the belief you’ll have no problem selling your home.  Unfortunately, that mindset rarely achieves the best possible price for your most important financial asset. Remember that selling in today’s…
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