Curb appeal is real, it matters, and it’s one of the easiest, lowest cost ways to increase the value and sellability of your home. All those expressions about making a first impression fit houses too! So here are a few tips for boosting curb appeal that can be done in a weekend on a budget.
Make an Entrance
Your entrance and front door should be inviting. You can repaint, restain or maybe replace the front door. Also plants and flowers can really help, often two pieces on either side of an entryway will help frame the entrance.
Lighting
Having some lights to frame the house in the evening can really make it pop, so check your garage and porch lights and consider investing in some new ones, there are good solar ones now that go on automatically at night and don’t require wiring.
Numbers Numbers Numbers
If your house numbers are old and hard to read, consider getting some new ones and we advise making them easy to read.
Return the old Mailbox to sender
If your mailbox is old and weathered, a new one can really help.
These are all low cost little steps that make a huge difference!

As we see home prices rise, home buyers (especially first-home buyers) need to determine how they will get funds for their down payment. Traditional loans require a 20% down payment, however there are other programs that do not require this large amount. VA loans require zero down payment, and if you qualify FHA loan down payments can be as low as 3.5% down. If you can’t do 20% many lenders may require private mortgage insurance (PMI) on the loan.
Here are typical sources of down payments
Savings – If possible, you should start saving for the down payment a few years in advanced.
Gift Funds are used by many people as well. A friend, relative or employer may help you with assistance towards the down payment. If you do this, its important to keep records of the gift and your lender may ask for a signed gift letter to certify the funds were a gift.
Inheritance is also a common source , note that funds must be available prior the loan closing.
Programs and Grants
There are a number federal, state and local down payment assistance programs that may be available to provide down payment assistance.

Its best to contact us and we can review your situation and see what program best fits your needs and what you may qualify for, so click on our online prequal for more!