8 Tips for Burglar-Proofing Your Home

Your home is meant to be a place of security and safety. The United States leads the world in occurrence of burglaries, with one occurring approximately every 15 seconds. While a break-in can be financially devastating, it is also emotionally taxing. Regardless of the safety of your neighborhood, a false sense of security can leave […]

5 Easy DIY Weekend Landscaping Projects

Proper landscaping is one of the few home improvements that not only adds value to your property but also appreciates over time. Another benefit of landscape projects? A little can go a long way and most don’t require the help of a professional. Use these easy DIY landscaping projects to add curb appeal to your […]

8 Perennials to Grow in Your Garden in the Midwest

If you are from the Midwest, you are well aware that you are likely to experience multiple seasons of weather in one day. When considering items to plant in your garden, it’s a good idea to pick plants and flowers that can easily adapt to a variety of climate conditions and are native to the […]

Mortgage Goals: How Much Equity Will You Gain from Owning a Home?

As it relates to your home, equity can be defined as the difference between what you owe on your mortgage and the fair market value of your home. The possibility of growth in equity—and the accompanying growth in your own personal wealth—is one of the enormous benefits of becoming a homeowner. You gain equity simply […]

Mortgage Goals: How to Build Home Equity

Home equity is arguably one of the biggest perks of being a homeowner. It is an asset and part of your total net worth. You can use it to pay off other debts, fund your retirement, pay for a child’s education or wedding, or use it to purchase your next home. However you plan to […]

Mortgage Glossary

Applying for a mortgage is a big financial decision. The financing process and terminology can be confusing at times for both first-time and repeat homebuyers. Get definitions on mortgage terms that are likely to come up throughout your loan process from our mortgage glossary.

Tax Benefits of Homeownership

Owning your own home allows you to create a stable living environment for your family, personalize your living space and build equity. With tax season around the corner, homeowners can argue that the tax benefits are one of the biggest perks of owning their own property. Interest & Points When looking at an amortization schedule […]

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