Summer Home Improvements that Add Value

Are you considering making home improvements this summer to your home? The best home improvement projects will not only add value to the property, but will also make it more enjoyable for you and your family. However, not all improvements will add value. For example, spending on painting the walls is one area which many believe adds value, while in fact owners will see less than 50% of a return, if any. Consider these options instead when you are considering where to make improvements to your home that add personality and value.

Fix it up - Sounds simple enough, but people really don't consider fixing the items in the summer home as an improvement. If deck wood is rotting or if your faucets are leaking, simply repairing and replacing these things will help add value to your summer home. No matter which areas of the home need fixing, it is better to repair these first before you hire contractors to begin new constructions. If you plan on selling the home, buyers will want things to work and look good. And, if you plan on keeping the property, you want to know everything is in working condition. For a reasonable price, you can hire a great handyman to perform all repairs for you.

The lawn - Curb appeal is what draws people to a home. You don't have to spend a ton on fancy landscaping ideas, but nice floral arrangements or a new tree in the front lawn is inviting. Maintaining your lawn will definitely add to the home's value. It is more aesthetically pleasing, and it will also bring you joy to see how great your summer home looks when the lawn and garden are properly maintained.

Consider new lighting - New outdoor lighting will also help increase your summer home's value, plus it doesn't have to be that costly of a project to take on. Run some lights up and down the driveway, or add a new light post to the front porch. Having a nicely lit path is not only easier to get from the front driveway to the door, but it also looks better from a distance.

Shutters - New shutters—especially in areas where adverse weather conditions are a problem—will also add value to your summer home. If it is a hurricane or heavy storm area, shutters will protect the windows and glass along the home's front. Adding new shutters will also dress up the front of the home, as they come in numerous colors, shapes, and design options. Adding curb appeal, adding protection, and adding value for a fairly low cost makes adding shutters to your summer home a wise investment option.

There are a number of projects you can perform when it comes to increasing your summer home's value. These are some of the least costly options, and they won't take too much time to complete. Plus, most homeowners can even do themselves. At a low cost and high return value these are some projects to take on if you wish to increase your home's value this summer.

Should You Refinance This Summer?

 

Are you trying to decide if you should refinance your existing mortgage this summer? Well, we can help in your decision! In order to ensure the best outcome, it’s best to be informed of the refinancing process and how it can potentially benefit you as a homeowner. Otherwise, refinancing could be a costly mistake if you don’t do your research.

Refinancing costs

You need to consider the costs for refinancing in order to determine whether or not it will be worthwhile for your particular financial situation. Unfortunately, you must be willing to invest some money in order to save in the long run. Be prepared to pay multiple refinancing costs that include filing, credit checks, application fees, title examination costs, and appraisal fees.

 What are the possible benefits to refinancing?

• Lower monthly payment
• Tax benefits
• Lower interest
• Obtain cash
• Consolidate debt

Should you refinance?

There isn’t a clear cut and dry answer to whether or not you should refinance without looking at the smaller details. First of all, if you are planning to move in the next few years, refinancing may not be for you. You want to reside in the house and keep the new loan long enough to reap the benefits, and this may take a while.

If your credit score has greatly improved since your original mortgage loan, it may be a great idea to take advantage of low refinancing rates. Also, if you have high-interest loans that you wish to pay off or get a lower rate, refinancing may be a good option. It’s not a good idea to refinance simply to get cash to go on vacation or buy a new luxury car. Refinancing is a good option for those who want to pay for college tuition or get a shorter mortgage.

Right now, you have an opportunity to get some great mortgage rates through refinancing. And don’t forget about HARP, which lets borrowers refinance even though they may owe more than their home is worth. Keep in mind that the borrower's loan must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. HARP expires at the end of December in 2015.

Designing Outdoor Space

Summer is almost here, so check out these great tips from P. Allen Smith for decorating and designing your outdoor space:

As you can see, you can make your outdoor space into a summer paradise! And it doesn't matter how small the space is, either!