Category Archives: Resources

Lower Insurance Costs

The price you pay for your homeowners insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, depending on the insurance company you buy your policy from. Here are some things to consider when buying homeowners insurance.   Shop Around Raise Your Deductible

Negotiate

Many consumers, including homeowners, feel trapped by debt. But there may be other options. Contact the people you owe. They may be willing to work with you to develop new payment plans. It will show that you are serious and smart about money. FHA HUD’s Federal

Watch Spending and Savings

Putting a little money aside every month takes hard work and difficult choices. But the rewards are great. Learn about the power of  compound interest. Teach your children that a few hundred dollars invested now can turn into thousands of dollars over time. MyMoney.gov The basics

Organize

Set money goals, and develop a plan to reach them. Decide what’s important to spend, then save the rest for a rainy day—or a downpayment on a home.Buying a Home Learn the nine key steps to buying a home. http://www.hud.gov/buying HUD’s Housing Counselors

Home Economics

Owning a home is the American Dream. It’s a great way to create wealth and pass it on to your family… to build a nest egg for college or retirement… and to protect against life’s setbacks. It starts with being smart

Read (and Understand) the Fine Print

Consumers have more ways than ever to buy a home. Know your rights. Homebuyers should understand their mortgage contract and be on the look-out for scam artists and predatory lenders. A HUD-approved housing counselor (1-800-569-4287) can help. Borrowers’ Rights HUD offers a complete list.

Elevate Your Credit Score

The importance of good credit is a fact of life. Banks and credit card companies  decide whether to lend you money and what interest rates you will pay based on your credit score. Be prepared to examine past choices and, if necessary, to change your

Questions for Home Inspector

Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector