Want to save money on your next mortgage? This post is for YOU, friend!

With interest rates on the rise, getting the best possible rate is even MORE important than ever — especially since it’ll be tagging along for the next, say, 15 or 30 years.

Remember, your interest rate depends on several things, like your credit score, the value of the home, and your debt load. So, if you wanna to save by locking in the best rate (yes, please!), here are three tips you can’t afford to ignore:

1. Improve your credit score now. Get your free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com. Look it over for accuracy and figure out what you need to do to bump it higher, like paying down outstanding balances.

2. Shop around for lenders. Instead of going with the first lender you talk to, contact several and compare your options to make sure you get the best deal. And don’t be shy – let them know you’re shopping around.

3. Boost your down payment. This may be a no-brainer, but the more you put down at the time of closing, the less you’ll pay on the loan. Plus, lenders view higher down payments as less risky loans, which could reduce your interest rate.

4. Ask the seller for a “rate buy down credit”.  If your lender offers a rate buy down program, this could be the key to saving you money each month for the next several years.  This will also give you time to refinance when the rates go lower than your current rate.

The truth is – it IS getting harder to save as rates are on the rise, but there are steps you can take today that will make a difference. DM me if you’d like to talk more — I’m happy to help however I can.

Now that the winter months are upon us, do you once again dread another season of sky-high heating and electric bills? Although you may blame this on inflation and other factors that are out of your control, as a homeowner, you have control over how efficiently your home uses energy. To use power more efficiently to save yourself a bundle on your bills, you must be aware of your level of energy consumption. You have to examine your habits and the function of your appliances to figure out where and why the loss is happening. Whether you do it yourself, seek professional help, or a little of both, the following tips can significantly reduce your energy costs while making your home more comfortable and environmentally friendly.

Hire a professional to audit your energy consumption. This will enable you to understand your appliance usage and determine where the loss occurs.

Conserve Lighting. Turn off lights in rooms that are not in use. Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs, and use a dimmer switch or motion sensors.

Reduce temperature setting. Lowering your thermostat even by one degree can make a difference. Experts recommend 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Control your heat use in each of your rooms with a programmable thermostat. If still drafty, hang drapes and blinds to retain heat. Use cold water for laundering whenever possible.

Disconnect appliances not in use. Power, although at a lower level, still surges; thus, energy is still in use. Use a power strip that is easier to turn off when not in use. Unplug items not constantly in use, such as toasters, blenders, and blow dryers.

Avoid overcharging your electronic devices. When your phone is 100% charged yet still connected to the charger, the electricity is still running.

Keep appliances clean for better usage. Getting rid of dirt, dust, and grime can help them operate more effectively. Periodically update your refrigerator, microwave, and other equipment as needed.

Weather-proof your windows and doors. Check weather strips and sealing to prevent heat escape. Install storm doors for your front and back. Glass prevents thermal loss.

Use good insulation. It is especially important to use quality materials for your roof and heating ducts. Also, proper insulation of an attached garage will help keep heat from escaping. Air seal any cracks, gaps, and leaks. Provide extra insulation in older homes.

Pay attention to above and below you. Ceiling fans can ensure better air circulation in summer and winter, so that heat and cool air are evenly distributed. Providing suitable floorings, such as vinyl or carpeting, can help reduce heat loss.

Use energy-saving and low-usage technology and equipment. Use energy-saving modes when running your washing machine, dishwasher, and dryer. Turn off the heated dry setting on your dishwasher. Install low-water usage taps and showerheads. The less water you consume, the less energy you heat it. It’s also good practice to only run full loads, so you are not wasteful.

Look for alternatives to heat water. Solar or geothermal water heaters are the most economical.

Service your heating system. All systems accrue wear and tear with daily usage. Periodic servicing can keep them running efficiently. Clean and replace all filters.

Cut your energy costs and live more comfortably by taking some time to incorporate these adjustments. By carefully maintaining your household appliances, cutting waste, and consistently practicing conservative habits, you will see your energy usage and dollars well spent. You may have to incur some expenses to get there, but you will make your home more energy efficient in the long run.

HomeKeeper Blog 12/5/22

We often take the roof above our heads for granted because we know it will protect us from the outside elements. Ultimately, we face the harsh reality that it will eventually age and need to be replaced. A worn and damaged roof can cause significant interior and exterior damage to your home if left unattended. Some roofs last longer than others, but with time, weather patterns, and unexpected circumstances, eventually, it will be time to replace this major protectant. Knowing the early signs or what to look for is the first step in determining whether it’s time to replace your roof. Accordingly, you will be able to minimize repair costs, injury, or property damage by noting the indicators, then taking action.

The following are some major signs that you may need to fix or replace your roof.