Hello,
We hope your month is off to a great start! With summer upon us, now is a great time to look at some home improvement projects. We’ve included some ideas to help you make your home more inviting, some reasons to pressure wash, and also explained some of the reasons people may be having trouble getting or refinancing their mortgage. If you or someone you know is interested in buying a home, please let us know!
Three Reasons to Pressure Wash Your Home
You may be planning to spend more time at home this summer than ever before, so why not make your home look its best? Pressure washing can make your home look cleaner and newer, but it also has surprising maintenance benefits as well. Whether you tackle this as a DIY project or bring in a pro, here are the top three reasons you should pressure wash your home.
Prevent Mold, Mildew, and Dirt
Over time, mold, mildew, and dirt can cause your home to deteriorate. If mold and mildew makes its way through your walls into the home, it can cause health concerns, particularly for those living with allergies or asthma. Pressure washing can help prevent damage to your home and protect your family.
Prepare for Paint
Have you been thinking about repainting your home? Pressure washing it first can clear off any grime or loose paint so that you can apply your new paint to a smooth surface and get the best possible results.
Improve Curb Appeal
First impressions can leave a lasting impact on how your guests view your home, and having a clean exterior can have a dramatic positive impact on your curb appeal. Having good curb appeal can also give your home a boost in value should you decide to sell your home.
Why COVID-19 Is Making it Harder to Get or Refinance a Mortgage
Mortgage rates are some of the lowest ever seen, but many buyers are having trouble accessing them due to the current difficulty getting a mortgage. Homeowners are also having a hard time gaining approval to refinance their homes, leaving many in a tight spot.
The rising unemployment rate due to the shelter in place orders has caused lenders to tighten their loan requirements. Many lenders are now requiring larger down payments on mortgages as well as a higher minimum credit score. Many companies are also looking more closely at debt to income ratios and employment status before approving a loan.
Historically low refinance and mortgage rates have also caused a surge in refinance applications that has limited the amount of mortgage credit currently available. Mortgage Bankers Association reported a 16% drop of available credit in March, the lowest it has been since June of 2015. So, if you’re thinking about buying or refinancing your home, work on maintaining your credit score.
Projects to Transform Your Home While Social Distancing
Thinking about making some home improvements, but not sure where to start? These projects will add value and help attract buyers should you decide to sell your home.
The Kitchen
You don’t have to completely redo the kitchen to make a big difference. If you have outdated counter tops, cabinet doors, light fixtures, or a leaky faucet, just renovating those aspects of the kitchen can make a big difference! You’ll also be surprised at the difference a new back splash can make.
The Paint
Almost every room can benefit from a fresh coat of paint, especially if you aren’t happy with the colors you have now. Start fresh or even just touching up your existing paint can make a big difference!
The Bathrooms
Does your home’s bathroom remind you of the spa? If not, it may be time for some updates. Simple changes like a new shower curtain or rug are a cost effective way to make a big impact, but even bigger changes, like replacing a toilet or shower head are easy to do and won’t break the bank.
Whatever this summer has in store for your family, We’re here to answer any questions you have about real estate and the current market. If you or someone you know is in the market, please let us know!