your home, your life (formerly american home week)

An advertising supplement to the Lewiston Tribune.

Your Home,Your Life

• Real Estate Agents Can Save You Money• Ways to Boost

Home Value• New Homes are

Getting Smaller• The Basics of

Property Taxes• Spring Showcase

of Homes

Y O U R H O M E , Y O U R L I F E S U N D A Y, A P R I L 1 2 , 2 0 1 52

21PRICERIGHT.COM

Angela Nightingale (509) 552-6198

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4 bed, 2 bathSpaciousBeautiful hardwood$200,000 #126635

Jessica Bean (509) 552-6599Jamie Canning (208) 791-7707

Debbie Asplund (208) 791-3339

Rolly Phillips (208) 305-6365Gary Asker (208) 750-5913

Gary Bergen (208) 816-1750

4 bed, 1.75 bathDesired areaGreat deck & yard$210,000 #127166

2 bed, 2 bathTotally updated2 acres$235,000 #126983

5 bed, 2.75 bathCamelot DistrictOrchards beauty$242,000 #127178

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5 bed, 3.5 bathOne level livingGranite countertops$312,000 #124779

3 bed, 3.5 bathShop + AcreageQuiet country living$323,700 #125822

3 bed, 2 bath30’ x 40’ shopPheasant Trail$363,700 #127085

5 bed, 4 bathSaltwater poolApartment in shop$435,000 # 126625

4 bed, 3.5 bathsGated communityPrivate Getaway$237,000 #127094

4 Bed, 2.75 Baths, 3,332 Sq. Ft.Brand New ConstructionRoom for Shop$425,000 #126615

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Wendy Price (208) 305-2030

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Real Estate Agents Can Help Save Buyers and Sellers MoneyR ecord-low interest rates

and record-low hous-ing prices are renewing

interest in the floundering hous-ing market for many people. Now could be the time to sell and buy a new home and earn an even bigger slice of the real estate pie. Whether an individu-al is a buyer or a seller, or doing both, his or her goal is to get the best financial deal on the home -- and often that means having a qualified real estate agent work-ing in his or her corner.

Those entering the real estate realm may have misconcep-tions about what’s involved. Oftentimes, individuals think they can go it alone and save money on real estate commis-sions in the process. However, not having a knowledgeable agent to navigate the process can end up costing more money in the long run. An agent is not there just to open up houses for viewing or to simply put a for-sale sign on the front lawn. Agents guide the seller or buyer through a complicated process of legalities and emotional hur-dles. The agent also negotiates for the buyer and seller to help them make important financial decisions.

“When sellers are interview-ing real estate agents to market their homes, their primary focus is usually on the adver-tising that the agent will offer them,” says Jessica Goodbody of Weichert Realtors. “Advertising is important, but, once sellers have an offer, they need a strong negotiator to help them get the best price and terms. Buyers should also look for agents who

have strong negotiating skills and neighborhood knowledge which will help them make the most of their purchasing power.”

Individuals can expect a real estate agent to help them navi-gate a process that, to first-time buyers or sellers, can prove intimidating.Buying a Home1. Schedule a consultation to

discuss what features and amenities buyer is looking for in a home.

2. The agent may suggest buy-ers speak with a mortgage consultant to figure out their buying power and obtain a mortgage pre-approval letter.

3. The agent will then look up

home listings in a particular price range and help the buy-ers to view the homes.

4. When buyers find a home they want to purchase, the real estate agent will help them come up with a fair market price and write up the contract to present to the seller.

5. The agent will help the buyer negotiate on the final price with the seller.

6. In some states, the agent will accept a down payment to place in trust or work with a real estate attorney on behalf of the buyer.

7. The agent may be present during a home inspection,

which is recommended.8. The agent will then schedule

the home appraisal.9. He or she will then confirm

the closing and be present at closing with the buyer and the attorney, if necessary.

Selling a Home1. The real estate agent will

meet with the sellers and eval-uate the home and property.

2. He or she will do a market analysis to figure out the best price to list the house based on the neighborhood and comparable sales.

3. The agent may make sugges-

tions for repairs or improve-ments that can help make the home more attractive to buyers.

4. The real estate agent may present a marketing plan that indicates where the home will be advertised.

5. He or she will write up a listing agreement and begin the process of marketing the home.

6. An open house for real estate brokers may be scheduled, also a caravan of brokers from

S U N D A Y, A P R I L 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 Y O U R H O M E , Y O U R L I F E 3

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B uying a home is often a difficult thing to do. The stress of making

such a big financial commit-ment is a struggle for many home buyers, whether they have purchased a home in the past or are doing so for the first time.

One way to make the process a lot less anxiety-ridden is to work with a real estate agent you can trust. Those who have previously purchased a home might already have a strong relationship with a real estate agent. But for those moving out of their current location or

buying for the first time, find-ing the right real estate agent requires some effort. Those in the market for an agent to help navigate the home buying process should consider the following tips.

Find a buyer’s agent. Real estate agents are often affiliated with sellers instead of buyer’s. This means their primary goal is to help the seller and not the buyer. When shopping around for a real estate agent, ask com-panies about their buyer’s agents. Buyers should always

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have someone with their interests in mind, and not the interests of the sellers.Find an agent first, then a property. Many times homes remain listed online or in “home for sale” brochures even if they are under contract or sold. These homes are often luxurious and appealing to a wide array of prospective buyers, and some agencies use them to attract customers. While this isn’t a typical bait and switch, it is a way real estate agencies get customers in the door. It is important to find a real estate agent before looking through home listings. This allows the buyer to choose their agent based on merit and not due to the poten-tially glitzy houses he or she may have listed previously.Find someone with a track record. Real estate can be an exciting and finan-cially rewarding industry in

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which to work. As a result, lots of people want to be real estate agents, even though few succeed and last a long time. When interviewing real estate agents, inquire about their history in the business. A more experienced agent will make things far less stressful and easier, and a long career indicates they are good at what they do. A real estate agent with a long history in the business will likely be a full-time agent as well. Prospective buyers should look for a full-time agent, which is not as com-mon as some buyers might think. Many agents work part-time, and buyers could receive less attention as a result.Don’t place too much emphasis on agency size. Real estate agencies come in all shapes and sizes. When it comes to ability, the size of the agency should not

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factor in. A smaller inde-pendent agency can be just as qualified and reliable as one of the major franchise agencies. Buyers who find someone they trust should go with that person, regard-less of how big or small their agency is.

Get a referral. Friends and family members who have been through the buy-ing process before might be great resources. Buyers look-ing in “Town X” who have friends or family already living there should consult those friends or family and ask for any agent referrals. Those relocating because of work should ask their company to refer an agent. Chances are companies have relocated employees in the past and might have a strong relationship with an agency in town. EL106496

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How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent


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T he lowest home prices in years and tax incen-tives are driving many

people to purchase their first home. Few things are simulta-neously as exciting and nerve wracking as becoming a hom-eowner. Preparation can make sure individuals are covering all of the bases.

First time home buyers easily can be overwhelmed by the process of buying a home. In addition to the legal hurdles associated with pur-chasing a home, the stress of committing such a substantial amount of money can lead to some sleepless nights.

But first time home buy-ers in the market for a home can prepare themselves for the process ahead of time. Though the following tips might not guarantee a smooth and stress-free home buying experience, they can answer a few questions and facilitate the process.

Establish your price range. As the housing crisis of the last several years indicated, many hom-eowners got in well over their heads. Some lost their homes to foreclosure, while others found it extremely difficult to pay their mort-gage each month. First time buyers can avoid such sce-narios by honestly assessing what they can afford and searching for homes within their price range. A host of Web sites, including some lender sites, provide free mortgage calculators so buyers can see just what

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they can afford. Lenders often recommend spend-ing less than 30 percent of income on housing costs. Research rates and taxes. Certain external factors beyond the price of the home will factor into a homeowner’s monthly financial commitment. Taxes and homeowner’s

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insurance can vary greatly depending on a home’s location. Research property taxes in different communi-ties, and shop around for homeowner’s insurance when looking for a home. Expect to pay costs. Closing costs are often a big shock to first time home buyers. Closing costs

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include lender fees, title and settlement fees, taxes, and homeowners insurance or homeowners association fees. Bankrate.com pro-vides an annul closing cost survey for buyers to get a better feel of just what they will be spending when the time comes to sign on the dotted line. A lender can also give an estimate of

How to Survive Buying Your First Home


what the fees may total. Consult some profes-sionals. Real estate pro-fessionals in the area might be able to paint a picture of what the real estate mar-ket is like at the moment. Prices might be on the rise, on the decline or remain-ing steady. If looking in a specific area, consult with a real estate agent about the area and what to expect. When shopping for a home

for the first time, buyers should expect the unexpect-ed. However, the surprise ele-ment can be reduced if buyers do their homework before beginning the buying process.

EL106488

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503 3rd Street, Juliaetta4 bdrm, 2.75 bath. Great view from expansive windows in front room. Beautiful kitchen has oak cabinetry, large laundry room, nice family room, bonus room, craft/gun room, loads of storage. Attached 2-car garage, great deck. #125064

2 Bedrooms on Large Lot with a 30’x50’ SHOP.New roof, siding & windows in 2007. Shop built in 2013 & has 1,500 sq. ft., 3/4 bath & W/D hook-ups. Two 12’x12’ doors with power openers. Stamped concrete & loft. This is the ultimate man-cave! Low maintenance yard with sprinkler system! $179,900 #127067

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T hough the housing market might not be booming, there are still

buyers out there looking for a place to call their own. Some potential sellers might prefer a patient approach to selling their homes, choosing to do so when the market rebounds and homes regain some of their lost value. Other sellers might not have a choice and must make due with selling in a lackluster market.

Regardless of which cate-gory you’re in, there are easy ways to boost your home’s value. Making minor changes to a home can add to your asking price, whether you’re putting your home on the market this week or waiting for the market to rebound.

The following tasks might not take much effort, but they pay dividends.

Work on the yard. An appealing lawn is still a great way to catch a pro-spective buyer’s eye. When a home boasts a lush lawn and well-manicured trees, it’s hard to ignore that For Sale sign out front. If landscaping has proven an Achilles’ heel in the past, make an effort to take bet-ter care of your property in the months ahead. It doesn’t take long for even the most neglected lawn to rebound from disrepair. By the time you feel confident to put that for sale sign out front, you might just be putting it up in a lush lawn

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no buyer can resist.Upgrade appliances. Prospective buyers won’t be thrilled if they walk into a home and see outdated appliances. Some might even feel older appliances indicate a homeowner who cared little about appear-ances and might begin to wonder if there are any additional areas that might have been neglected around the house. Stainless steel appliances in the kitchen and even new fixtures in the bathroom are aesthetically appealing and tend to excite buyers. Homeowners who aren’t immediately putting their property up for sale can gradually upgrade their

•appliances to lessen some of the financial toll such purchases take.Replace the carpet. A clean carpet might make a world of difference to a home’s inhabitants, but a new carpet will be more appealing to prospective buyers. Choose a neutral-toned carpet that will boast a more universal appealPaint the home. A fresh coat of paint or new siding is always attractive to prospective buyers. If your home hasn’t had a new coat of paint in awhile that might make buyers feel the home is musty or old. Many buyers judge a book by its cover, and sell-ers want their home’s exte-rior to be as attractive as possible. Homeowners can also paint rooms inside the home to give it a fresh and

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welcoming feel.Clean up around the house. A cluttered house will almost certainly repel buyers. Buyers want a home that’s roomy and well kept, but clutter creates the opposite impression. Organize the closets to make them appear more roomy and clean up any areas that have become cluttered -- consider tem-porarily renting a storage unit to house excess stuff from closets. Basements or utility closets might be handy for storage, but they should be open and clean before hosting an open house. The less clutter a home has, the more spa-cious it will appear and the more money sellers can likely demand for the home.

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Easy ways to boost home value

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the agents’ own real estate office and surrounding affili-ates.

7. An open house for buyers will be scheduled.

8. The agent will field calls from other agents and notify the seller when a viewing request has been made.

9. Follow-up feedback can be offered, which may include information the agent receives by making calls to people who viewed the home or by tracking how many potential buyers viewed the home listing.

10. When an offer comes in, the agent will notify the sellers and advise him or her of the negotiation process.

11. The agent will be present

during the home inspection, if the buyer requests one.

12. The agent will schedule with the city or town to have a cer-tificate of occupancy inspec-tion conducted.

13. The seller will be notified by the agent when the buyer has obtained a mortgage com-mitment and made good faith deposits.

14. The agent will likely be pres-ent at the home closing with the real estate attorneys.Individuals buying or sell-

ing a home can certainly do it by themselves, but real estate agents have the knowledge and provide assistance through the myriad steps of the process, helping individuals to save time and money. MM10C156

from AGENTS on page 3


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N owadays, homeowners looking to sell their homes know it’s not as easy to do so as it might

have been a few years ago. A strug-gling economy has made it difficult for many homeowners to sell their homes for a price they’re comfortable with.

But the sagging economy is not the only thing can make it difficult to sell a home. In fact, a host of other things, some obvious but some not so obvi-ous, can hurt a home’s value as well.

Location: A home’s location is arguably its best or worst selling point. A home in a great loca-tion won’t be as difficult to sell as

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a home in a bad neighborhood. But location goes beyond a neigh-borhood’s reputation, especially in recent years. Homeowners who live in a neighborhood or develop-ment with many foreclosures might find those foreclosed properties are hurting their own home’s value. Lots of foreclosures could negatively affect a neighborhood’s reputation, which might make a home within that neighborhood less attractive to prospective buyers.Appearance: A home’s appear-ance is another obvious variable that might affect its resale value. Homeowners might want their

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Factors that might hurt a home’s value

home to reflect their own indi-viduality, but that’s not going to help when the time comes to sell the home. If the exterior paint is out of the ordinary, then it might be wise to choose a more traditional or conserva-tive color before erecting the “For Sale” sign out front. The same goes for a home’s interior. If the interior design is espe-cially unique, a more traditional interior decor might help the home sell faster.Size and style: Another thing to consider when selling a home is its size and style. A home that stands out on the block might be an attention-grabber, but that’s not always attractive to prospective buyers. For instance, a colonial sitting in the middle of a street filled with contemporary homes will stand out, but likely for all the wrong reasons. It will likely appear dated and out of place, which is something buyers might not want. In addition, if the home is considerably larger or smaller than the surrounding homes, then this could hurt its value.Non-conformity: In many ways, confor-mity is not considered an admirable trait. But when selling a home, conformity could make the dif-ference between a home selling quickly or remaining on the market for months if not years. When shop-ping for a home, buyers often shop

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in certain neighborhoods and towns and might see many dif-ferent homes within a given ZIP code. Homeowners with homes that don’t conform to others in the area might find it difficult to sell their homes. For instance, homeowners trying to sell a two bedroom home in a neighborhood filled with three bedroom homes might notice their home’s value is not as high as that of surrounding homes, regardless of the neighborhood or how similar the home’s exte-rior is to surrounding homes.Age: Older homes might have character and a sense of nostal-gia, but appraisers take age into consideration when determin-ing a home’s value. And buy-ers tend to lean toward newer homes for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the feeling that newer homes have far more modern amenities than older homes. When it comes to a home’s value, there are a host of things that could ultimately increase or decrease that value in the eyes of prospective buyers.

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New homes are getting smallerF rom the early 1990s

to the beginning of this century, “bigger

is better” certainly was the mantra of the home-build-ing industry. All across North America buyers could browse among home devel-opments boasting homes of 3,000 square feet or larger and multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. But according to new data, home buyers are seeking less space today but more in green amenities.

Research by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association has found that many people now desire smaller homes with multipurpose rooms and energy saving fea-tures. They’re not ready to trade in their two- and three-car garages just yet, though. Plus, a survey of International Furnishings and Design Association members forecasts that McMansions will become a thing of the past and more emphasis will be placed on smaller, more eco-friendly homes. Family rooms will grow larger, as will kitchens. Other rooms in the home will disappear, including the living room.

Many homeowners and potential home buyers real-ize that with girth comes a cost. In today’s fragile economy, the ability to cash in on the dream of hom-eownership may come at the compromise of a smaller, better-planned home.

According to Tim Bailey, the manager of Avid Canada, a research and con-sulting firm for the building industry, “While many con-sumers are willing to forgo

space, they are not equating this with having to forfeit functionality. Design cre-ativity is requisite to adapt to this changing preference.” Here are some things that you will and will not find in newer homes moving for-ward.

The dining room is becoming extinct, with larger, eat-in-kitchen/entertaining spaces the norm. The kitchen will be the main room of the home and be renamed the “kitchen lounge.”Separate rooms are evolv-ing into spaces that serve many different purposes.Although the sizes of bathrooms may be scaled back, the amenities will not. Spa-style bathrooms with luxurious products, high-tech features and televisions will be on the

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rise.The master bedroom suite may not shrink in size, but it could be combined to form a home office and exercise space.Expect to see more high-tech offerings, such as voice- or motion-activa-tion devices in the home. Lighting, entertainment gear, heating/cooling systems, and even blinds could be hooked up to a master control system.Thanks to an increasing number of people work-ing from home, the pres-ence of a dedicated home office is a given in newer homes. Nearly 40 percent of industry forecasters say that they expect one in every home.Home storage solutions

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D espite low interest rates and declining sale prices, there is

still a lot of home inventory available. That means hom-eowners thinking about selling have to do whatever they can to set their homes apart from the others available.

Real estate experts call it “staging,” or presenting the home in the best light so that potential buyers can envision themselves moving right in. Just a few changes here and there can position a home to sell faster than the competi-tion.

The nose knows. A house can be perfect inside and out, but if it smells bad, buyers will likely be put off. Make sure there is no noticeable odor, such as pet smells, garbage, stale smoke, etc., to turn off others. Clear out. Make sure the interior looks as spacious as possible. This could mean taking out some furniture and temporarily putting it in storage. Be sure countertops in bathrooms and kitchens are free of clutter. And pack away knick-knacks that can

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collect dust. Cater to the lazy person. Potential buyers gener-ally want to move in and simply unpack. They don’t want to make major repairs. Therefore, homeowners should do whatever repairs are possible, within reason. If that means tearing down dated wallpaper or replacing carpeting with hardwood floors, it could mean a faster sale. Do a deep cleaning. Whether a cleaning service is hired or the homeowner

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does it himself, tackling necessary cleaning projects could make the home shine. Now is the time to wash the windows, shampoo the car-pets, regrout the bathrooms, and tackle all of those mess-es that could compromise a sale. Add a fresh coat of paint. If walls are bright colors or eclectic, it could pay to paint rooms in more neutral shades to appeal to the masses. Just be aware that some buyers are suspi-cious of paint, especially freshly painted ceilings. They may think a hom-eowner is trying to hide something, usually water stains. Keep the home updated. While one doesn’t have to follow every trend, ensuring the home is ageless can make for a bet-ter sell. So if the cabinets scream 1985 and the bath-room is circa 1967, it could be time to do some updat-ing. Create “happy” spaces. Buyers don’t want to pur-chase a dark home that

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seems full of doom and gloom. Open the windows, turn on the lights, add lights to dark rooms and use light colors as room accents. Generally buyers want a bright and light home. Avoid provocation. One potential buyer could be an animal lover, another a political activist. No one can tell who will view the home. So don’t display personal items that might offend. Take down mounted deer heads and put away books that may seem offensive. It can be a good idea to store religious items as well. Clean out closets and cabinets: Partially empty closets and cabinets give the suggestion that the home is large and has plenty of stor-age space -- so much so that it doesn’t even all need to be used. Buyers who see jam-packed closets could wonder what’s up with storage.

Selling a home in a tough market can be easier when homeowners take the steps needed to stage homes for a faster sale. HI108752

8.

9.

9Interior Fixes to Sell a Home Fast

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P eople fortunate enough to own their own plots of land often choose to

fence in their pieces of paradise. Fences serve many purposes: to designate property boundaries, keep pets or children contained in a safe environment, corral livestock, offer privacy or add aesthetic appeal.

Although installing a fence may seem like the right idea for you, going about it the wrong way may lead to problems among neighbors, particularly if you live where the houses are relatively close to one another. Some homeowners find fences become the final point of con-tention among disagreeable neighbors or create tension with a neighbor with whom you pre-viously had a good relationship. Being courteous with fence plans is the way to avoid any animosity along the way.

There are certain things you must do and should do if you plan to erect a fence. Most peo-ple find neighbors appreciate being informed of any decisions you are thinking of making to the property that can affect their views or their adjoining property. Before drawing up fence plans with a contractor, talk to the neighbors on either side of your home and gauge their receptiveness to a fence. At this point, you may want to consider offering to make the fencing project a joint deal to save money should the neigh-bors decide to install a fence as well. Contractors will often dis-count if they have several cus-tomers doing an installation at the same time. Property owners can save by splitting the costs of the shared walls of the fence where their property lines meet.

Explain your case for the

fence. Most neighbors are receptive to the idea if they know the reasoning -- especially if the desire for a fence is not to keep them at bay. It’s hard to protest a fence that is a safety precaution for children. If your neighbor already has a fence, you must ask whether you can connect your fence panels into the support post on your shared side.

Once you notify your neigh-bors as a courtesy, there are cer-tain steps to take that will pre-vent any legal disputes down the road. Even the most easy-going neighbor could grow aggravated if the fence is put up carelessly or ends up partially on his prop-erty. The best way to prevent this is to apply for a new, profes-sional property survey and have property lines indicated with paint or wood markers.

Each town or city has dif-ferent regulations with regard to fencing, so it is important to learn the ropes or hire a contractor who is familiar with the rules. It might be illegal to install fences directly on the property line. The law might require the fence be installed a few inches inward. There also may be rules about how high fences can be in the front of the home, sides and back. Corner lot properties may have added regulations depending on whether the fence could prove a visual obstruction to drivers. If you live in a planned commu-nity, or one with a homeowners’ association, it is your job to find out the guidelines for any home improvements. The HOA may dictate the style, size and main-tenance of the fence or may not allow a fence at all.

Once all the details are checked, you may have to apply

for a fence permit. This way the construction of the fence and finished product will meet safety standards, and the area in which you live can provide consistent quality control. If the fence is installed by code, there is little chance it will have to be torn down or changed in the near future. Also, doing

it by the book means that a neighbor can be unhappy about a fence but not have legal recourse to ask you to remove it.

As an added form of cour-tesy, it is proper fence etiquette to put the “good” side of the fence facing the neighbors’ yards. That means the side of

the fence that doesn’t show the support panels and posts. Remember, it is your fence so you are also responsible for all maintenance of the fence -- on all sides. Just because your neighbor also will be benefit-ting from your fence, doesn’t mean he will have to care for it.

SH122784


Fence etiquette prevents disputes

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P aying property taxes is a necessary side effect of home ownership.

Across the United States and Canada, residents are required to pay property taxes based on an assessment of their homes’ value.

Taxes on land and the buildings on it are one of the biggest sources of revenue for local governments. In the United States, property taxes are not imposed by the states, but by the smaller governing bodies in cities, towns, town-ships, counties, and other jurisdictions. In Canada, prop-erty taxes, or milliage taxes, are levied by the jurisdic-tion in which the property is located. They may be paid to a federated state or a munici-pality or the national govern-ment. Sometimes multiple jurisdictions may tax the same property.

Although the taxes are

mandated by a higher govern-ing power, the rate at which you pay taxes could be based on a very local assessment of the area in which your house is located and the current market conditions. An asses-sor will visit a home -- usu-ally prior to purchase -- and make a determination on the percentage of tax to be paid depending on the condition of the home, the improvements that have been made and the climate of the economy in your particular town or city. Property taxes are usually cal-culated by taking the assessed value of your home and mul-tiplying it by the tax rate that has been determined by your local government.

While no one can “legally” escape paying property taxes, there are several ways to have them lowered. Getting your home re-assessed is one such way. Individuals who have

reached a certain age may be eligible for certain discounts on property taxes. But this may require a very low income to qualify. There are also some tax credits or homestead exemptions that may qualify you for a limited assessed value on the property.

According to data from the Tax Foundation and Forbes, areas of New Jersey, New York and Illinois boast some of the highest property taxes. Residents of Hunterdon County, New Jersey paid on average $8,600 a year between 2005 and 2009. Those in Lake County, Illinois pay around $6,500. People living in Westchester County, New York can plan on spending $8,400 per year. Statistics indicate that homes located in Ontario cities in central Canada have the highest prop-erty taxes. Toronto residents, for example, pay an average of $3,900.

In this tough economy, low-ering property taxes (which are generally rolled into the mortgage amount for ease of payment) could substantially reduce bills. As many as 60 percent of properties across the United States are over-assessed, according to the National Taxpayers Union, a nonprofit group that promotes

lower taxes.If you suspect your property

taxes are high, here are the steps to take.

* Get a copy of your property tax assessment from the local assessor’s office and double-check all the infor-mation contained to see if it is correct.

* Check the assessments of five comparable homes that have sold in your neighbor-hood in the last three years.

* An independent appraiser can also provide you accu-rate information at a cost. Make sure he or she is licensed with the National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers or by

the American Society of Appraisers.

* It’s not possible to lower the property tax rate, just the assessed value of the home through an official appeal. There may be fees associated with this appeal, however.

Some home improvements will increase the value of your home and, in turn, your prop-erty taxes. Here are some of the most common culprits:

- extra stories to the home- outhouses, like a guest

house- sports courts, like tennis- installation of an inground

pool- improvements to fencing- addition of a garage or

another room on the home

A change in the status of a neighborhood can also give rise to higher property taxes. An influx of new residents or new construction of stores and homes can have a major effect on the assessed value of your home. SH122771

The basics of property taxes

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from SMALLER on page 11

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irritation over time. The wood frame method is also subject to thermal bridging, where outside cold seeps in to cause uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and musti-ness. On the other hand, the Nudura concrete walls have shown to deliver energy savings of up to 70 percent and delivers a building enve-lope up to three times more sound resistant, four times more fire resistant, and nine times stronger. Floor and ceiling construction is now advanced too. More infor-mation is available online at www.nudura.com.

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Construction Quick Tip:Build home equity by building with concrete

will also be a vital com-ponent of new homes. Builders will create clever solutions for mixing stor-age into more compact spaces.With aging Baby Boomers comprising a larger seg-ment of home buyers, expect to see more one-level homes, or at least homes where there is

•

a master suite and the majority of the living space on the first level.

Part of what is driving this trend is the cost of homes in relation to space and the increased interest in environ-mental conservation. Smaller, more efficient homes require less in terms of heating and cooling energy. They need less furniture, and new mate-

rials made from sustainable products help further fuel green initiatives in the build-ing industry. Energy efficient homes are a main priority for buyers. Although the homes may be smaller, they will not be miniscule. And home buyers can expect a host of amenities that will make the smaller size of homes barely perceptible. SH122770

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T he flowers are blooming, and the grass has begun to grow anew, making

spring a great time for hom-eowners to once again turn their attention to landscaping. Those who aren’t looking forward to dusting off their lawnmowers and rethreading their string trimmers may want to hire pro-fessional landscapers to tend to their lawns and gardens.

A recent joint study by the National Gardening Association, Residential Lawn and Landscape Services and the Value of Landscaping found that hom-eowners spend roughly $45 billion per year on professional lawn and landscape services, as nearly 30 percent of all house-holds across the United States use at least one type of lawn or landscape service. The rising use of lawn care services is indicative of homeowners’ appreciation of the convenience and craftsman-ship professional services can provide. While the impact pro-fessional landscapers can have

on a property’s aesthetic appeal is considerable, homeowners also benefit from working with professional landscapers in vari-ous other ways.

Time savings: One of the big-gest benefits of leaving lawn care to the professionals is the amount of time it will save for the average homeowner. Lawns generally need to be mowed once per week dur-ing the spring and summer seasons and, depending on the size of the property, that can take an hour or more. Add the time it takes to clean up clippings, mulch landscaping beds and edge the property, and homeowners can expect to devote a significant chunk of their weekends to caring for their lawns. Lawn services employ a few workers who make fast work of the job, leaving homeowners time to enjoy their weekends however they see fit.Reduced risk for injury:

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Maintaining a landscape is hard work, and those unaccus-tomed to this type of activity may find themselves winded or at risk of injury. Improper use of lawn equipment also is a safety hazard. Leaving the work to professionals can help homeowners avoid strained backs, lacerations, pulled mus-cles, sunburns, and any other dangers that can result when tackling landscaping projects.Financial savings: On the surface, hiring a landscap-ing service may seem like a costly venture. However, after crunching some numbers, many homeowners realize that doing the work them-selves may cost more in the long run than hiring a profes-sional landscaping service. Homeowners who decide to go it alone must purchase expensive equipment, and those lawn tools will require routine maintenance, which costs additional money. Inexperienced homeowners may incur extra fees to “fix” mistakes that occur during the learning process. Each year,

•

new seed, fertilizer, mulch, pesticides, and other supplies also must be purchased. But professional lawn care services typically charge a set fee per month, and that fee covers the maintenance of both your property and the equipment needed to keep that property looking great.Know-how: Many profes-sional landscapers know how to address lawn care issues that may arise throughout the year. They will know how to deal with dry patches of lawn or poorly draining areas, and they also can make recom-

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mendations on plants that will thrive under certain condi-tions.One-stop shopping: Certain landscaping services provide many different options for prospective customers. Basic lawn cuts may be one package, but there also may be services for seasonal seeding, weeding, leaf clean-up, and winterizing.Consistent maintenance: Homeowners who frequently travel or spend much of their summers away from home often find that lawn care com-panies are a wise investment. Established weekly schedules ensure the landscape always will look its best whether homeowners are home or out of town.

Spring is a great time for hom-eowners to decide if hiring pro-fessional landscaping services is in their best interests. The time and money saved, as well as impact professional landscapers can have on a property, makes landscaping services a great investment for many homeown-ers. GT154042

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The many benefits of hiring a professional landscaper

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Celebrity designer celebrates the sights and scents of springK elli Ellis is an interior

designer for all seasons. But when spring rolls

around each year, she is truly in her element.

An award-winning celebrity interior designer, textile designer and design psychology expert, Ellis’s work is everywhere, from television (as a featured designer on TLC’s “Clean Sweep,” HGTV’s “Takeover My Makeover,” and Bravo’s “ Real Housewives of Orange County” as well as guest spots on NBC, CBS and ABC) and the Web (as eHow.com’s interior design expert) to print media (as the monthly design advice colum-nist for the Orange County Gazette). Known for her love of flowers and floral design, Ellis also serves as a spokesperson for the Society of American Florists.

For Ellis, spring offers end-less opportunities to update and refresh interior spaces with touches of color. While she always recommends start-ing with a neutral foundation that includes walls and major pieces of furniture in shades of white, beige or brown, Ellis loves to add seasonal flourishes by changing up accents and acces-sories.

“With a neutral foundation,” explains Ellis, “you don’t have to invest a lot of time or money to refresh. Once you have the basics -- those pieces of furni-ture that you absolutely love and will stand the test of time -- the sky’s the limit in terms of chang-ing accents such as valances, pillows, rugs, candle holders -- even the matting on a picture. A neutral foundation opens the door to a new look with mini-mal changes.”

According to Ellis, one of the best -- and easiest -- ways to add seasonal color and refresh a living space is with fresh flow-ers displayed in a variety of containers. Fresh flowers not only enliven a room and bring in the sights and scents of the outdoors, they are perfect for playing up color and color com-binations.

“A lot of people are afraid of color in their decor, so a less scary way of introducing color is with flowers and vases,” Ellis notes. “Fresh flowers can go with any type of decor and gen-erally last as long as your mood, so there are endless opportuni-ties to experiment without mak-ing a long-term commitment.”

Decorating with flowers begins with choosing a contain-er that is in sync with the season and the style of your home, counsels Ellis.

“There are so many container options for every type of decor,” Ellis says. “If your home leans toward country, think about using old decanters, tins or even wooden boxes. For contempo-rary homes, glass vases with clean lines work best. And for traditional homes, go with urns or ornate vases.”

The same principal applies to the flowers themselves. Mixed flowers tend to be more tradi-tional; bunches of local flowers lend a homey, just-picked qual-ity to a casual or country home; and monochromatic arrange-ments ooze modern. The key, notes Ellis, is to pair flowers with both their containers and the indoor environment in which they will be seen.

Next comes color. While Ellis leans toward monochromatic

arrangements of white flowers -- stargazers, lilies, roses and orchids are among her personal favorites -- she nevertheless appreciates the “pop” of color that can be achieved with bolder blossoms.

When choosing flowers for a particular spot or room, Ellis advises looking at complemen-tary colors -- those that are on the opposite side of the color

wheel. For example, if the walls are a warm shade of yellow or gold, a container filled with blue flowers, such as hydrangeas, del-phiniums or sapphire orchids, makes a bold statement. And in the green room? Try flowers in shades of purple and violet.

“I think the greatest thing in the world is to bring your own vase or container to the florist and ask for something special

that works with it,” she reveals. “Not every florist has a vase that suits your taste or will work in a particular spot, so I take in my containers and say, ‘I want something blue.’ Then I’m both surprised with the result and certain that it will work with the decor.”To learn more about Ellis and her latest projects, visit her online at kelliellis.com. SH122780

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R everse mortgages, also known as FHA Home Equity

Conversion Mortgages (HECM) in the United States, are growing in popu-larity among the senior set. With this type of plan, homeowners who own their home outright or have a very small mortgage pay-ment can actually receive

cash from the home that doesn’t require immediate payback. This money can be used for improvements, medical expenses or to sup-plement social security.

Over time your home is worth money thanks to increased value gained over the years. This is called equity. With a reverse mortgage, a homeowner

age 62 or older qualifies to receive a percentage of the equity as cash payments. Unlike a home equity loan or second mortgage, how-ever, the loan does not have to be paid back as long as the you or another borrow-er is living in the residence as a primary home. You are still required to pay prop-erty tax, home insurance and other monthly utility payments, etc.

There is no worry about foreclosure or being evicted from the house if you out-live the loan, because pay-ments are being made to you from the lender. You can never owe more than the value of the home, so there is little worry about being in financial peril. What’s more, should you sell the house or if it is left to relatives as an estate, the lender is repaid the amount

of money you received in the reverse mortgage. The rest is available to you or your heirs.

Reverse mortgage amounts are based on a few factors, namely your age and the value of your home. The older you are, the higher the amount you can potentially receive on aver-age. Also, reverse mortgag-es are available regardless of your current income, unlike home equity loans, etc. These loans are generally available from traditional lenders. There may be fees associated with application and loan closing, which vary from lender to lender. You can shop around for the best lender. It is not recommended to use an estate planning service to recommend a reverse mort-gage lender.

In terms of receiving

the cash value of the loan, there are a number of ways to receive the money. You can select equal monthly payments for as long as you’re living in the home; equal monthly payments for a specified term; a line of credit, where you can withdraw funds of various amounts as needed until the line of credit runs out; or a combination of meth-ods.To learn about avail-able lenders for reverse mortgages, The National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) publishes a list available at ReverseMortgage.org. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also publishes a list of approved lenders. Be sure they are part of the HECM program. FP105380

Use Reverse Mortgages to Access Equity for Retirement


While reverse mortgages can be a boon to seniors looking to receive cash now, there are some dangers to be aware of that can prove costly to unsuspecting homeowners.

The money for taxes, insurance and vari-ous fees is subtracted from the amount the mortgage holder receives for their monthly payment, thereby reducing the net amount of the money you will get each month.Be aware that if you move into a nursing home or other assisted care facility, which is likely for many seniors, your home is no longer your primary residence. The lender can then come for the loan. The same is said if you move to another residence for half of the year, which is common in a “snow bird” situation.

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You could be asked to pay higher fees and closing costs for a reverse mortgage than a traditional mortgage.Many unsuspecting homeowners are sucked into adjustable rate mortgages for their reverse mortgage. ARMs, as many know, have a fluctuating interest rate that can go quite high. Consider fixed-rate loans if you’re concerned about adjustable rates.You can use the money gained from a reverse mortgage on any expenditure. That can make splurging very tempting. However, should an emergency arise down the line, you may have depleted the cash available from your home already.

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Avoid These Reverse Mortgage Pitfalls

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How to increase storage in tight spacesC ozy, quaint homes

attract many home buyers and renters.

Be it a cottage-style house or a studio apartment, smaller living spaces often involve getting creative with storage.

People live in a smaller homes for a variety of rea-sons. Some choose to live in a smaller home so they can be right in the thicks of things in a city or urban center. Others scale back on living space in an effort to save money. But storage space in small quar-ters is often at a premium, and thinking creatively is a necessity to keep the home tidy and items out of view.

Rainy or chilly days are the perfect times to tackle indoor organization projects. When the outdoors isn’t beckoning,

you can devote all of your attention to addressing stor-age issues in your home. To begin, take inventory of what you have, going through your possessions and determining what can stay and what can go. Part with anything you haven’t used in quite some time.

The next step is to sort items and get organized. Then you can find a place for every-thing. For example, if you have a dozen bath towels but only one sauce pot, you will need to find more room for linens than kitchen cookware. You may need to borrow space from one area of the home to give to another area. The following are some addi-tional tips to increase space in an otherwise cramped home.

* Add shelves. Increase cabi-net and closet space by add-ing shelves into them. This may double or even triple the amount of usable space, especially if you customize the shelving to fit storage containers you use to store everything from shoes to craft items.

* Opt for dual-purpose fur-niture. Benches with lids that lift up and sofas that convert into guest beds are just a few of the many ways you can keep a small home neat and increase storage space. An ottoman is a great place to store extra blankets and linens, while a trunk or crate with a sturdy top can be used in lieu of a tradi-tional coffee table to keep books or board games.

* Think vertically. When floor space is at a premium, you may need to look up for storage. Frequently used pots and pans can be hung from a decorative rack in your kitchen. Use magnets on jars to store a spice

rack on the wall near the stove. Racks above cabinets or on doors can be used to store everything from shoes to jewelry to toilet-ries. Shelving in children’s rooms can store lesser used toys away from the floor. Empty walls are valuable real estate in a small home, and tall bookshelves can house a number of different things.

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* Use see-through storage containers. Many people find that plastic storage bins are neater and more stackable than boxes. See-through bins enable you to quickly find items so

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that you are not searching around the house for lost items and creating a bigger mess along the way. Clear storage containers work in the refrigerator, too. You can more easily spot left-overs, and uniform stacking containers free up more room for bulkier items.

* Make use of space beneath your bed. There likely is ample room to store more things than just dust bun-nies beneath your bed. A bed frame with built-in drawers is the perfect place to keep bed linens and out-of-season clothes. Beds can be raised on blocks to cre-ate more space underneath for storing rolling plastic containers and even sel-dom-used suitcases.

* Opt for an armoire. Armoires are not exclusive to bedrooms. Armoires can be used in dining spaces or in dens to store items out of sight. An armoire can be used when retrofitted with a pull-out shelf as a laptop desk, storing all office items behind closed doors when not needed.

* Improve storage in the bathroom. Try to choose a vanity that has under-the-sink storage so you will have a place to store some toiletries. Home improve-ment centers sell cabinets and etageres that can be placed above the toilet tank as a storage space for bath-room items. In the shower, hang a second tension-loaded shower curtain rod on the inside of the shower enclosure that can be used to hold bags of kids bath toys and other toiletries, keeping them off the tub ledges.

When you think creatively, you can maximize storage space even in a small home.

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Finance your home with one of the nation’s leading retail mortgage lenders. You may benefit from:

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Contact one of our Wells Fargo Home Mortgage consultants for your PriorityBuyer preapproval today.

Crystal NelsonHome Mortgage Consultant208-791-4422crystal.d.nelson@wellsfargo.comwww.wfhm.com/crystal-nelson1NMLSR ID 189090

Teresa D KoepkeHome Mortgage Consultant208-305-5904teresa.d.koepke@wellsfargo.comwww.teresakoepke.comNMLSR ID 755325

Wesley Lloyd GossageBranch [email protected] ID 400369

Jody LauzonHome Mortgage [email protected]/jody-lauzonNMLSR ID 400375

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS1061681 Expires 7/2015


Renovating an historic homeLiving in an historic home

can be a labor of love. The history and the distinct archi-tecture of historic homes draw buyers to such properties, but what historic homes have in regard to history they often lack in the conveniences of modern life, forcing many historic-home owners to make renovations to bring their homes into the 21st century.

Historic-home renova-tions differ from other types of modifications. According to the Victorian Preservation Association, renovation is getting a home back to where it may have been when origi-nally built, but making con-cessions for today’s lifestyle. Preservation is the act of maintaining a structure in its current historic state, and res-toration is returning a home to its original state. Unless a homeowner plans to use an outhouse or live without elec-

tricity, the majority of work done on historic properties is likely to fall into the category of a renovation.

Renovating an aging struc-ture can be fulfilling and help to make a home more functional. But make no mis-take, such a renovation is a major undertaking. Before beginning, it pays to hire a professional consultant with expertise in renovating his-toric properties. He or she can inspect the property to deter-mine which areas of the home are safe and which will need to be upgraded. A professional inspection also can determine if any deficiencies lie hidden in the structure. Potential concerns can be toxic paints and other substances, building code issues, rotting, and struc-tural settling. Professionals will know what to look for and guide homeowners accord-ingly.

Homeowners also may want to consult with a preserva-tion association, community restoration group or general owner-builder group. These people can refer homeowners to the craftspeople and mate-rials that will be needed for a job. Homeowners can request to see other historic proper-ties in the area and learn what those owners did to maintain the integrity of a home when using newer materials.

Before any work is started, homeowners should find out if their home is listed with the National Register of Historic Places. According to the United States National Parks Service, property owners can do whatever they want with their property so long as there are no federal monies attached to the property. However, the property owner should also contact his or her state’s his-toric preservation office, or SHPO. The SHPO is the state agency that oversees historic preservation efforts in each state, and there may be state or local preservation laws that the owner should be aware of

before renovating a historic property.

Craftspeople should have experience with historic homes and a sensitivity and appreciation of renovating older properties. Homeowners always should see examples of a craftsperson’s work and ver-ify references from each con-

tractor before hiring anyone to work on the property.

Homeowners who want to include traditional hardware and other period details in their homes may be able to find quality replicas of historic milling materials, while oth-ers may want to scour antique shops or salvage yards for era-appropriate materials.

Historic renovations can be costly and have a tendency to go over budget because of unforseen damage and hazards that have to be repaired so the building is up to code. Going into the project with this in mind can help soften the blow of extra costs down the road.

Historic homes can be beau-tiful and appeal to buyers who appreciate the one-of-a-kind nature of older properties. Renovating historic homes may take time and money, but the results may be well worth the effort.

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How you can finance your home improvement projectsM any homeowners rec-

ognize that improv-ing and maintaining a

property makes a home more livable for its inhabitants and more attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to erect a “For Sale” sign in the front yard.

But a well-maintained home also provides additional benefits. According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, home improve-ments not only raise the val-ues of individual homes, but they tend to raise neighbor-hood standards as well. Home improvements can create jobs and help local communities flourish economically.

Maintaining a home can be a costly undertaking. Home improvement projects can be expensive whether hom-eowners hire professionals or tackle renovation projects on their own. The following are a handful of options homeown-ers can consider as they look for ways to finance renovation projects.

· Paying outright: Paying for the renovations upfront and in full is perhaps the simplest way to finance a project. Homeowners who have the cash to pay for renovations outright won’t have to worry about inter-est rates or balloon pay-ments.

· Mortgage refinancing: Some homeowners tap into their home equity to cover home remodeling projects. Refinancing a

mortgage means paying off the debt owed and starting over with a completely new loan. Refinancing comes with various fees and can cost between 3 and 6 per-cent of the loan’s principal.

· Home equity loans and lines of credit: Both of these options are com-monly referred to as sec-ond mortgages. When homeowners apply for home equity loans or lines of credit, they are borrow-ing against the equity value in their homes. A home equity loan is a term, or closed-end, loan. It is a one-time sum that will be paid off over a set amount of time with a fixed inter-est rate and the same pay-ment each month. This is a one-time loan from which a person cannot borrow further. A home equity line

of credit, or HELOC, is like having a credit card. It’s possible to borrow a certain amount for the life of the loan, which is a set time specified by the lend-er. During this time, hom-eowners can withdraw money as it is needed up to the value of the line of credit. HELOCs typi-cally have a variable inter-est rate that fluctuates and payments can vary depending on the amount of money borrowed and the current interest rates.

· Title I property loan: Residents of the United States with limited equity in their homes may qualify for an FHA Title I loan. Banks and other lenders are qualified to make these loans from their own funds, and the FHA will insure the lender

against a possible loss. Title I loans can be used for any improvements that will make a home more useful and livable. They cannot be used for reno-vations deemed luxury expenses.

· Borrow against retirement funds: Some people opt to borrow against a 401(k) plan, IRA or another retirement fund. If the retirement plan allows a loan without penalty, it can be another way to secure funds. Because it is the homeowner’s money, there will be no credit check required and less delay in getting the funds. Borrowers should keep in mind that taking a loan against a retirement account will usually result in a lower retirement bal-ance than it would have

been had they not bor-rowed money from the account - even after the funds have been repaid.

· Credit cards: Credit cards are an option when improvements are not expensive. Individuals with excellent credit ratings may qualify for cards with a no-interest introductory periods of several months or more. These cards can be a good way to pay off moderate improvements in a short amount of time.

Many home renovation projects require homeowners to develop a home improve-ment budget. Homeowners are urged to explore all options and find the least costly loan method and the one that will present the best possibility for avoiding debt.

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Factors to consider before selling your home


S elling a home is no small undertak-ing. It often pays to

be patient when putting a property up for sale, but waiting for an acceptable offer can be stressful, espe-cially for those homeown-ers who have already found their next homes.

Because so much tends to be riding on the decision of whether or not to sell a home, homeowners would be wise to consider the fol-lowing factors before put-ting that “For Sale” sign in their front yards.

· Motivation: Many homeowners sell their homes because their families are growing and they have outgrown their current residences. Others may recognize a seller’s real estate market and want to strike while the iron is hot, while still others might be moving for a new job. The factors that motivate homeown-ers to sell their homes vary with each individual case, but prospective sellers should keep in mind that moving can be

expensive, and finding a new home may not be so easy, nor is the grass nec-essarily greener on the other side. When decid-ing if now is the best time to sell your home, make sure you will be selling for the right reason. That can make the often trying process of selling a home a lot easier to handle.

· Market: The local real estate market is another factor to con-sider when deciding whether or not to sell your home. A home is a significant investment, and you want to earn as substantial a return on that investment as pos-sible. Selling when the

market is struggling will make your investment less valuable. Research recently sold homes in your neighborhood to get an idea of how much you can expect to get if you sold your home in the current market. It might be worth it to sell now, or it might pay off to be patient and wait until the market rebounds.

· Kids: Selling your home will impact your family just like it will impact your bottom line. Unless you plan to move down the street or to another home in your community, selling may mean you and your family no longer see your friends and neigh-

bors. That can be a diffi-cult adjustment, especial-ly for school-aged kids who will have to adjust to a new school. The poten-tially negative impact that selling can have on your children may not be worth the financial bene-fits of selling, so the deci-sion of whether or not to sell should not be taken lightly by homeowners who also happen to be parents.

· Quality of life: It can be difficult to turn down an opportunity to make a lot of money on your real estate investment. But if you plan to sell and move further away from your office and your friends and family, the financial windfall you earn when selling your home may not be worth the sacri-fices you have to make in order to earn that money. Studies have shown that longer commutes can elevate stress levels, and even the most afford-able property may not be worth moving to if you won’t be able to enjoy the home with your friends and family.

When deciding whether or not to sell their homes, many homeowners make the decision a strictly finan-cial one. But there is more than money to consider when deciding if now is the right time to sell your home.

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Mortgage terms to knowS U N D A Y, A P R I L 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 Y O U R H O M E , Y O U R L I F E 27

B uying a home is simul-taneously exciting and stressful. Owning a

home is still a dream for many people, but first-time buyers often find that their unfamiliar-ity with the home buying pro-cess is a source of stress. Part of that stress stems from the ter-minology associated with home mortgages. Many terms may raise an eyebrow among first-time buyers, so the following are a few mortgage terms buyers can familiarize themselves with to facilitate the process of buy-ing their own homes.

· Closing costs: Buying a home is expensive, and part of that expense is the closing costs. Any time a real estate

transaction occurs, that transaction is accompanied by certain expenses, which are known as the closing costs. Closing costs may include attorney fees, loan origination fees, title insur-ance and escrow payments. Buyers can sometimes nego-tiate with the seller so the seller will agree to pay the closing costs, or the costs can be shared by the buyer and the seller. But buyers may also pay the closing costs in their entirety on their own.

· Escrow: Escrow is a bond, deed, document or money kept in the custody of a third party until a real estate trans-action has been completed. In addition, escrow accounts

are used to hold the prop-erty tax and insurance fees that are collected via your monthly mortgage payment.

· Fixed-rate mortgage: A fixed-rate mortgage, unlike an adjustable rate mortgage, is one in which the inter-est rate on the mortgage remains the same for the life of the loan. Buyers typically prefer a fixed-rate mortgage because they know exactly what they will be paying for their home each month. An adjustable rate mortgage, often referred to as an ARM loan, is one that typically comes with a lower inter-est rate than a fixed-rate mortgage, but that lower rate is usually only locked in

for a relatively brief period of time, such as one year. Once that initial time period is over, the interest rate will then increase and may increase several times there-after over the life of the loan.

· PMI: PMI, which stands for private mortgage insur-ance, must be purchased by home buyers who are financing more than 80 percent of their homes. The standard down payment when purchasing a home is 20 percent, but some buyers cannot afford such a down payment. As a result, the lender then mandates that such buyers purchase PMI, which protects the lenders if the borrower defaults on the

loan. The cost of PMI will be added to your mortgage pay-ment, and once you have 20 percent equity in your home you can cancel PMI, at which time your monthly mortgage payment will decrease.

· Title insurance: Title insurance is a tool that protects both the buyer and the seller against legal issues that may arise as a result of the home’s title. Title insurance protects buyers and the lender from the possibility that the seller was not legally permitted to trans-fer ownership of the property to the buyer. Title insurance may also protect sellers from any issues that may arise that threaten his or her ability to sell the home.

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