Myths About Buying A Vacation Home

Are you thinking about buying a vacation home? Maybe owning two homes is part of your retirement dream. Maybe you'd like to have a second home in your favorite holiday locale. If you are thinking about taking this step, you might have talked to family and friends about it. Unfortunately, many people give well-intentioned, yet poor advice when it comes to buying a vacation home. Here are some myths -- and the truth -- about buying a second home straight from leading real estate experts. You Can Buy A Vacation Home With No Money Down You have probably seen advertisements…
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Getting Ready For Winter: Necessary Home Checks

When the leaves start falling, winter can't be far behind. In order to make sure your home will offer you cozy shelter from the coming cold, there are a few simple checks that you should not delay. It's wise to perform simple pre-checks of major home operating systems; schedule required maintenance or call for service if you suspect a problem. Be diligent about routine upkeep; replace filters regularly. Check for faucet drips, and make note of unusual appliance or plumbing fixture noises. Here are five areas you should not ignore: The Roof  A tight roof is vital all year long,…
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Pros and Cons of Downsizing After Retirement

With Baby Boomers already rolling into retirement and Gen X looking forward to shrugging off the stress of the 40-hour work week, downsizing could be a strategic move. For many Americans, homeownership remains their single largest investment and the monthly mortgage payment their highest bill. Lowering or nixing that cost altogether can free up a considerable amount of cash that could be used for retirement security or leisure activities. Keep in mind, your "golden years" should be just that, so enjoy them. That being said, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to downsize to a less…
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