One of the first questions potential home buyers ask is “how much cash do I need to buy a house?” Most of the time, some cash will be needed for a down payment and closing costs. The exact amount of cash will depend on several factors, including the type of loan. Conventional loans A conventional […]
Author: Benchmark
Simple Tips to Winterize Your Home
When winter’s cold blast approaches and the warmth of summer is a distant memory, it’s time to winterize your home to ensure you keep heating and other costs at bay. Here are some simple tips on how to winterize your home this season. Seal up Windows and Doors Nothing acts more like a beacon to […]
Tax Tips for Homeowners Claiming a Home Office Deduction
A recent survey by the Small Business Administration indicates that nearly half of all businesses are based in American homes. These home-based businesses for the self-employed run the gamut from accounting services to providing medical care. American professionals surveyed by Telework Research Network indicate that the number is expected to grow in the next five […]
Get Your Closet Organized While It’s Cold Outside
Its winter time and thoughts of going outside in the cold just gives you the chills in most of the country. So, why not look for something productive to do inside like cleaning out and organizing your closet? Closets are usually taken for granted because you can just toss things inside them and forget about […]
Stick to Your New Year Resolution with These 5 Tips
New Year’s Resolutions are hot topics this time of year with many honestly wanting to make changes that will help them to be healthier, wiser and more organized people overall. While some stick with their goals for a few weeks or possibly even a few months, a very low percentage of individuals actually keep their […]
First Time Homebuyer Tips from 7 Top Mortgage Professionals
Purchasing your first home will be one of the most exciting times of your life. It will most likely be the largest investment that you ever make. It is where you will entertain friends and family, and it is where you will go to rest and relax each evening. With so much at stake, it […]
What Is An Escrow Account?
Often you will hear the term “escrow account” when applying for a mortgage. Often the criteria for whether or not an account is required is tied to the percentage of down payment made for the mortgage. What is an escrow account? Your lender will add on an amount to your monthly mortgage payment which flows […]
What Is An Escrow Account?
Often you will hear the term “escrow account” when applying for a mortgage. Often the criteria for whether or not an account is required is tied to the percentage of down payment made for the mortgage. What is an escrow account? Your lender will add on an amount to your monthly mortgage payment which flows […]
Top 10 Best Selling Toys on Amazon.com for Christmas 2013
Christmas 2013 is in the books and now retailers will have the rush of returns so people can get the gifts they really wanted. If your kids still have a couple toys on their list, you might want to check online. Here are the 10 best selling toys on Amazon.com for Christmas 2013: 10. Stomp […]
5 Simple Ways to Relieve Holiday Stress at Home
The holidays are here, and with it can come unwanted stress. The good news is that there are simple ways that you can relieve stress from your own home. So when you start feeling overwhelmed from shopping, baking, cleaning and planning holiday parties, remember these tips to help you relieve some stress! Set a Budget […]