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Rules for Holiday Decor When Selling Your House

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We start the month of October by pulling out all of the ghosts, goblins, bats, skeletons and other Halloween decorations from storage. Then we stock up on gourds and pumpkins. Are you with us?

The arrival of autumn and the candy-hoarding holidays is always a welcomed gift after a hot, long summer.

If you are preparing to sell, your decor may distract buyers and not be an asset. These tips can help you take a measured approach.

Don’t overdo it

It’s Halloween time! We get it. You’re not the only one. Last year, Americans spent $9 billion on Halloween, of which $2.7 billion was spent on decorations. “You don’t want the decorations to detract from features of the house,” Kevin Lawton, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Schiavone & Associates in Bordentown, New Jersey, told Homelight.

Color story and decor styles are important to consider

Be careful with the colors that you choose if you plan to bring your Halloween decorations into your interior. Yes, you could load up on orange pumpkins, or you can purchase faux pumpkins in navy blue and emerald green velvet to match what you already have going on.

Safety is important

You want to ensure that there are no hazards in the path of people walking to and from your house. Safety comes first. Always. Make an effort to keep the walkway in front and leading to your house clean. To avoid any accidents, make sure that the walk is properly lit.

Limit inflatables

Your giant Halloween Snoopy inflatable looks adorable. It might be better to store it in your garage for this Halloween. Unless you live in a neighborhood where most or all of the houses go all out for Halloween and your place will stand out for all the wrong reasons if you DON’T cover the lawn with blow-up stuff, it’s probably best to go a little tamer this year. (And if you do happen to live in that exuberant neighborhood that warrants a parade of inflatables, be sure to keep them inflated all day. You don’t want people driving by or coming for showings with a limp Snoopy spread out on the lawn.) You also want to make sure that your “For Sale” sign is still easily visible no matter what kind of decorations you use.

Do a day-after check

That perfect curb appeal may take a hit on Halloween, so be sure to take a few minutes to look around the perimeter of your home before you leave for work on November 1.

Revival Property Group said, “The day after the decorations go down, check your property for trash, trampled flowers and stray candy”. “Freshen your landscape again by trimming bushes, raking leaves, washing the driveway and adding a beautiful autumn wreath on your front door.”

Watch out for those pumpkins

Like we said, there are so many ways to decorate with faux pumpkins these days. But if you insist on the real deal, make sure you check them every couple of days to make sure they aren’t going bad and haven’t turned into critter food.’

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1032705-rules-for-halloween-decor-when-selling-your-house?rtmpage=

9 Things You Should Do to Your Home Before Fall Starts

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It would be wonderful if you could prepare your home for the fall by simply hanging a wreath and lighting a bunch pumpkin spice candles. Although these are important preparations for the change in seasons, being a homeowner comes with more important (and less fun) tasks. Here’s what you need to do before your home transitions from the hot summer to the cool autumn nights…and then to freezing temperatures.

1. Replace or clean your gutters

Real talk: Your gutters drain thousands of gallons from your roof every year, but you don’t give them the TLC they need. If they are clogged, it can lead to a damaged exterior and a flooded home. Clean them and, if needed, replace them. 

2. Check for drafts

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat loss through windows accounts for 25-30% of heating energy consumption. But it doesn’t need to be this way. Weatherstripping is easy and is probably the most cost effective way to reduce heating costs.

Tip: If you suspect a draft, try closing a window or door on a piece of paper. If you can easily slide the paper, it’s time to replace your weatherstripping.

3. Drain your outdoor faucets

Say with me: “I’ll turn off all outdoor taps before winter!” Drain and disconnect any garden hoses that are connected to outside spigots. This will prevent water from freezing. Do this. If you don’t, your pipes could burst.

4. Bring your outdoor furniture in

Yes, your furniture is outdoor furniture. You should not test the label of your furniture by leaving it out in hurricane-like weather or snowstorms. You spent money and time setting up that outdoor space, so if it’s something you want to use for another summer, you should store it in your garage or shed. If you do not have a place to store your items, you can cover them with a waterproof furniture cover that you can purchase on Amazon for just 36 dollars.

5. Repair any cracks on your driveway

This seems tedious, but it’s one of those things that you think, “eh…it’ll be fine!” It could be that it’s not fine. When water freezes and expands in cracks, it can cause the crack to grow. Enough small cracks will eventually turn into large cracks and the concrete can crumble. You’d also probably prefer to have a driveway that doesn’t have a giant hole. Fill it up with concrete crack sealer and you’re done.

6. Change your filters

You may be spending more money than you should on another item in your home. Your heating bills will rise if your filters are clogged. You’ll thank me later if you clean these filters regularly, not just in the fall. FYI: Disposable filter can be vacuumed once before replacing it. Foam filters can also be vacuumed without having to be replaced.

7. Fertilize your lawn

You know the saying: A good defense is better than a good offense. If you want your lawn to look great in the spring, summer and fall, you must prepare it for the winter and fall. Fertilizer will help prevent winter damage because the roots are still active even when the grass isn’t actively growing. This will also help your grass turn greener faster in the spring. After all, who wants to see a sad looking lawn when it’s nice out?

8. Test winter equipment

Hello, I’m from the future. Your snow blower doesn’t work and you can’t leave your house to buy a replacement. Just check it now to make your life easier.

9. Change your batteries

You should check all smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and other devices once a year to ensure they are working. You should check this out as you are already checking everything else.

Original Blog: https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/a22652916/fall-home-maintenance-checklist/

Can You Use Gifted Money As a Down Payment?

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The down payment is one of the most important things to consider when you plan to purchase a home, or hope to do so.

The down payment you pay is a portion of the property’s purchase price. In most cases, your down payment for a primary home can be anywhere from 3% to 20%. The down payment amount required will depend on your mortgage type and property type.

You may be able buy a property that is more expensive or receive a lower rate of interest if you pay a higher down payment.

First-time homebuyers often receive gifts to help with their down payment from family, but there are some restrictions.

Gift money: Limitations

When you receive a gift of money for your down payment, a mortgage lender will take into consideration a few factors.

They will first look at the value of the gift. Lenders will also look at the source of the gift and your relationship with the person who gave it to you. If you don’t have a close relationship with the person who gave you the money, a lender may not allow you to use it as a down payment.

A lender will require a gift letter if you are using money that was given to you. You should state in the gift letter that you do not have to pay back any loans. You may be asked to show proof that the money was transferred into your account by a lender.

The lender might also ask the person who gifted you to send you a copy their bank statement or check.

Gifts and conventional loans

Conventional loans do not have any guarantee or insurance from the government. Gift money can be used for down payments and closing costs as long as the source is acceptable.

Gifts from family members are acceptable. Families under these definitions include parents, siblings, and grandparents. Included are also in-laws, domestic partners and grandparents.

FHA Loans

FHA loans are available to borrowers with low-to moderate-incomes. The gift money you receive from a donor who is eligible must be used to apply for the loan. Even though conventional loans have stricter guidelines, there are usually more family restrictions.

While the FHA’s family relationship requirements are stricter, you can still accept gifts from your employer or charitable organizations. You can also use funds that come from a public entity or government agency that assists first-time or low-to-moderate-income home buyers.

VA Loans

If you are a veteran or service member, you can get a VA loan with no down payment. Gifts for VA loans are restricted if they come from an “interested party”.

A party interested in the transaction is a seller or an agent.

Gifts are less important, since you do not have to pay a down payment on these loans.

Learn More About Gifts

In most cases, there are no restrictions on the amount that someone can contribute to your down payment. You may be required to make a down payment using your own funds in some cases. If you are buying a property as an investment, this is often the case.

Your lender can give you a standard letter of gift that the recipient fills out.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/archives/item/1044162-can-you-use-gifted-money-as-a-down-payment?rtmpage=

Rake in the Fun with These Fall Family Favorites!

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It’s time to get outside and enjoy the crisp autumn air! Fall is the perfect season for outdoor family activities. From raking leaves to apple-picking, there are plenty of fun fall activities for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for something to do on a weekend afternoon or a way to break up your day, these outdoor family fall activities will make it easy to get the whole gang together for some fresh-air fun. So gather up your loved ones, and let’s rake in the fun with these autumn family favorites!

 

Scenic Leaf Peeping Spots

Experience the beauty of nature’s colorful transformation with a visit to some scenic leaf peeping spots this fall. Whether you take a leisurely stroll through a local park or embark on a scenic drive through the countryside, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking vistas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Grab your camera and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the season. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to witness Mother Nature’s magnificent artwork firsthand.

Apple Picking Adventures

Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the apple orchard! Apple picking adventures are a fun-filled family activity that everyone can enjoy. Head out to the orchard and spend the day picking juicy, crisp apples straight from the trees. Not only will you bring home a delicious bounty of apples, but you’ll also create lasting memories with your loved ones. So grab a basket and get ready to taste the sweetness of fall!

Cozy Bonfire Nights

As the nights get cooler, there’s nothing better than cozying up around a crackling bonfire with your loved ones. Picture marshmallows roasting, stories being shared, and the warmth of the fire keeping you toasty. Bonfire nights are the perfect way to create cherished memories and embrace the spirit of fall. So grab a blanket, gather around the fire, and let the flickering flames and the cool autumn breeze transport you to a place of pure relaxation and joy.

Hayrides and Pumpkin Patches

Hop on a hayride and embark on a magical journey through the pumpkin patch! Hayrides and pumpkin patches are the epitome of fall fun. Take a bumpy ride on a hay wagon while breathing in the crisp autumn air and admiring the colorful scenery. Once you arrive at the pumpkin patch, let the excitement begin! Pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating and create memories that will last a lifetime. Hayrides and pumpkin patches are the perfect way to embrace the joy of fall with your family.

Nature Walks and Hiking Trails

Explore the great outdoors with a peaceful nature walk or invigorating hike this fall! Step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you choose a local trail or venture to a nearby national park, you’ll be surrounded by stunning autumn colors and crisp, fresh air. So put on your hiking boots, grab a water bottle, and embark on an adventure that will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Scarecrow Making Contests

Get creative with your family and participate in a scarecrow making contest this fall! Gather some old clothes, straw, and accessories to create your very own scarecrow masterpiece. Whether you make a friendly scarecrow or a spooky one, the process is sure to bring laughter and fun. Get everyone involved and see who can come up with the most creative scarecrow. It’s a unique and exciting activity that will bring out your family’s creativity and competitive spirit.

Football Tailgating Parties

Get ready to cheer on your favorite team with a lively football tailgating party! Fire up the grill, bring out the snacks, and gather your friends and family for a pre-game celebration like no other. From tossing the pigskin to enjoying delicious food and drinks, tailgating parties are the perfect way to bond with loved ones and soak up the excitement of the game day atmosphere. So put on your team colors, get ready to cheer, and let the tailgating fun begin.

Outdoor Movie Nights under the Stars

Grab your blankets and popcorn, because it’s time for outdoor movie nights under the stars! There’s something magical about watching your favorite films in the crisp autumn air. Set up a cozy outdoor movie theater in your backyard, complete with comfy seating and a big screen. As the stars twinkle above, you and your family can enjoy a night of laughter, suspense, or heartwarming moments. It’s the perfect way to spend quality time together and create memories that will last a lifetime. So dim the lights, press play, and let the movie magic unfold!

Original Blog: https://www.landhub.com/land-news/rake-in-the-fun-with-these-fall-family-favorites?inf_contact_key=c84ec45f260a335b401f313522b72a1a680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1

5 Home Projects That Will Prevent Your Home From Flooding (For All Budgets)

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Floods can take many forms, and are in some cases considered to be one of the worst natural catastrophes. Floods can occur in areas near rivers or bodies of water, following a heavy rainfall that causes water levels to rise and in your own home if you have a burst pipe.

Floods are responsible for more than $40 billion of damage each year, regardless of their cause. Floods are the number one cause of natural disaster deaths, with up to 30 people dying each year in their homes.

You can prevent some floods, but you should take precautions to keep your home dry. You have a variety of options depending on the location of your home and your risk factors. The five projects listed below are ranked from the least expensive to the most expensive, so you can decide which one is best for you.

Pipe Insulation

Floods can start inside your home. Sometimes, they start from within. Indoor flooding can be caused by a variety of factors, from a malfunctioning washer to an overflowing bathtub. The most common and dramatic cause of flooding in the home is burst pipes.

When the temperature in the home drops to a level where the water in the pipe freezes, the pipes burst. As the water expands, it freezes. If the temperature drops rapidly and the water freezes quickly enough, it can expand at such a rapid rate that it can cause the metal or plastic pipes to split. When the ice melts, water will then leak out of the cracks or holes.

Insulating your pipes is one way to avoid this. Pipe insulation keeps them at a constant temperature, so they don’t freeze.

Project Cost: $100 to $1,000, depending on the number of pipes at risk.

Installation Difficulty: Precut pipe insulation is easy to install. It slips over the pipes.

Sump Pump

French drains are a passive way to direct water away from your house. Sump pumps are the active solution if you prefer. Sump pumps use a trench as well, but instead of passively funneling water away, they collect it in a pit and then use a powerful pump to force the water out. They are more efficient when paired up with French drains. This is especially true in areas that receive heavy rainfall or homes that have previously experienced flooding. You may need more than one if you have a large home.

Project Cost: $550 to $1,100

Installation Difficulty: Installation is easy if there is already a pit, but can be difficult if you have to dig a trench and a pit.

French Drain

A French drain can help if you live in a region where flooding is a problem due to heavy rain or high water levels. A French drain directs water away from the house. It can be installed either inside or outside of the home to help prevent flooding.

Installed via a trench, it collects water and directs it away from the property. Interior drains may be more expensive but they are more effective at removing water in the most critical areas. They can be installed either in a new home or an existing one. They can also be paired with sump pumps to further reduce your flood risk.

Project Cost: $5,000

Installation Difficulty: It can take a few hours or even days to cut into the ground, or the concrete of your basement.

Foundation Sealing and Waterproofing

Floods do not always occur suddenly. Floods can occur when water slowly accumulates through a crack on your foundation. Over time, the crack can widen and allow more water to enter your home. This can be prevented by waterproofing and sealing the foundation.

Waterproofing is a great way to repair small cracks in your foundation and prevent water from entering. Waterproofing is often paired with sump pumps and French drainages, especially if you live in a place where moisture can easily slope down to the foundation. If your house is located on a hill, or the ground slopes away to the foundation, waterproofing may be the best solution.

Project Cost: $5,000

Installation Difficulty: Sealing and waterproofing may take several hours or even days depending on the condition the foundation.

House Raising

Not every property is a candidate for house raising. If you live near a body water that has been flooded before, house raising may be the best solution for you. House raising is an expensive project that involves lifting your home several feet and then building a new crawl space or foundation below it. The Base Flood Elevation is used to calculate the amount of raising your house. This number takes into consideration the ground elevation, flood zone and how far above the zone your home is already located. If your BFE is ten feet and your home is five feet above the flood zone with a crawlspace below, you will need to raise it another five feet to get out of the zone.

The cost of raising your house can be high, but it can save you thousands in flood damage. This will also protect your home from possible flooding for many years.

Project Cost: $35,500

Installation Difficulty: This is a difficult and invasive procedure that must be done with care to avoid damaging the integrity of your home’s structure.

Protect Your Home From Floods

Floods can be dangerous and costly. They can cause a lot damage in a short period of time and do not discriminate between houses. These five techniques will help you protect your home against flood damage and keep it dry no matter what happens outside.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1033390-5-home-projects-that-will-prevent-your-home-from-flooding-for-all-budgets?rtmpage=

4 Sources for Down Payment and Closing Cost Cash

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The majority of loan programs require some form of down payment. Some programs require as little as 3% of the purchase price, while others do not. The VA home loan program, and the USDA rural area program are two of the most popular programs.

VA loans are only available to veterans and a few other borrowers. The USDA program is designed to help populate rural communities by providing financing in areas that conventional programs will not touch.

There are also closing fees associated with obtaining a home loan. At the settlement table, there are certain costs that must be paid. These include an appraisal and credit report. Other charges, also known as recurring charges, are repeated over and over. Interest and homeowners insurance are examples of charges. Where does one get these funds from? Where do you get your funds?

Bank Account

These accounts will be checked by your lender, to ensure that you have the money you claim to have. Lenders will also want to know that these funds are ‘seasoned’, meaning they cannot just appear. A seemingly random deposit is not eligible for use.

Retirement Account

Many retirement accounts let you borrow money from them. Ask your employer if you can borrow from your 401(k). If you are eligible, the lender may have set repayment terms which will be deducted from your paycheck at each payment period. There are no universal 401(k), loan terms. Instead, lenders set their own. The lender sets the terms.

Financial Gift

You may be the lucky recipient of a financial donation from a qualified source or a member of your family. There are non-profit organizations that provide home buying assistance. Donors will need to provide proof that they are making a financial contribution. These funds are typically wired to settlement agent at the closing date. A signed letter from a donor may be required.

Asset Sales

You may also be able sell an appraisal asset in order to raise funds for your down payment or closing costs. Appraisable assets are those whose value can be documented by third parties. You might be able to sell an automobile loan because third parties can provide a current market valuation for the property. It is important to document the sale and the value. The proceeds from the sale must be matched with a deposit into an account that you own.

You can tap into any of these sources. Talk to your loan officer if you have any questions and work out all the details before.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/mortgage-advices/item/1047550-4-sources-for-down-payment-and-closing-cost-cash?rtmpage=null

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