Buying

Home Buying Tips for Teachers

September 6, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

Teachers looking to purchase their first home often find themselves wondering where to turn first. There are numerous federal, state, and locally-based programs designed to make the process of putting together a down payment and getting approved for a home easier for teachers. Check out these resources and tips for consideration before you start the home buying process.

Down Payment Assistance and Other Financial Programs

Good Neighbors Next Door¹ - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers this program to help make the home buying process easier for pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade teachers. Homes listed by HUD can be snatched up for a 50% discount provided teachers are willing to commit to living on the property for at least 36 months.

Teacher Next Door² - Also offered by HUD, this program helps pair educators with federal, state, and local loan programs. Teachers can receive up to $6,000 in assistance depending on the area and cost of living. Some even qualify for up to $10,681 in additional down payment assistance. There are no upfront, broker, or application fees, and teachers can take advantage of other perks like a free appraisal and home buyer representation.

Landed Down Payment Support³ - While not a government-funded effort, Landed is a company that seeks to help teachers and other educational staff purchase homes in expensive cities - think Los Angeles, Denver, or San Francisco. The company will provide half of the down payment, provided they're willing to share 25% of their investment when it comes time to sell.

Local Programs - Teachers always have the option to leverage more localized programs, too. Many states offer home loan programs designed for teachers who aren't available on the federal level. Teachers in California, for example, can qualify for the Extra Credit Teacher Home Purchase Program. This program offers teachers deferred junior loans up to $15,000 depending on the location of the home.

Three Practical Home Buying Tips for Teachers

Commute time - Buying a home near the school where you work can save you considerable time, money, and instances of migraines. Long commutes are tough, but long commutes after eight hours of dealing with a classroom full of children are their own special brand of fun. You're the glue that holds students' academic efforts together, and you deserve to be able to get home easily after a long day at work.

Social considerations - While living near school is great, you'll need to take your comfort level running into students and parents while you're out and about into account. If you're a little more socially awkward than you'd like your kiddos at school to believe, it might be best to leave a little buffer room between you and wherever a majority of your students live.

Consider Relocation - Anyone who teaches knows that certain states stand out when it comes to job prospects. Some are known to treat teachers like royalty, others are known to treat them like peasants, and most fall somewhere in between. If you're stuck in an area that's less-than-favorable, don't be afraid to consider packing up and starting someplace new.

This also opens up a variety of housing options that you wouldn't have had otherwise. You can look at the home of your dreams half a country away and take comfort in the fact that you know you'll be moving someplace where your time at work is better-valued. That's a win/win by all accounts.

At the end of the day, your career as a teacher can have a huge impact on your home-buying experience. Job opportunities within the industry are constantly changing and may send you looking for a home far from where you're living now. Unique opportunities for monetary assistance also position you better than most, to take risks and aim to purchase the home of your dreams. If you utilize your resources correctly, you might find that your career actually makes purchasing a home easier than it might be otherwise.

References

1 hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/reo/goodn/gnndabot
2 teachernextdoor.us/Home
3 landed.com/

How to Inspect the Plumbing in a New Home Before You Buy

August 12, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

Plumbing issues that are overlooked can be costly in the long run. When considering your next home purchase, here is a list of things to check to ensure that your potential new home has an effective plumbing system before you close the deal.

Inspect water heater - Water heaters usually last about 10 years. Check the age of the heater, and if it's around 10 years old or older, request to have it replaced. Ensure the heater is big enough to suit your family's needs. Otherwise, you will find yourself running out of hot water frequently. Depending on how hard the water is at the house, mineral deposits can cause corrosion and build up in the bottom of the tank. This leaves less space for water to enter and will affect how much water gets heated for use.

Inspect toilets for possible leaks - Inspecting all toilets in the home can tell you a lot about the condition of the plumbing system. Flush each toilet and make sure they fill back up again. Check around the base of each toilet, and if the floor moves or feels spongy, this may indicate a leak that is going into the sub-floor that may one day cause damage.

Check water supply valve - The water supply valve is in a different location in each home. Locating it during your home inspection would be beneficial in case you ever have a water leak and need to shut off all water immediately. To determine if the valve is in good working order, turn it off and then check all taps in the home. If water still pours from the taps even when the valve is shut, attempt to locate a secondary water supply valve. If none is found, request an additional inspection to determine if the valve is faulty.

Determine the type of sewage system - If the home is in an urban area, chances are sewage will drain to a municipal sewage system. If it is in a rural area, sewage likely will drain to an on-site septic tank. In this case, determine the location of the tank and size, which should be available from the current owner. Ask the owner when the tank was last pumped and request that it be pumped before the closing date. If the tank uses an aerator, check that it is in good working order. At the house inspection, look for seeping around the general area of the septic tank, and be aware of any odors. These are signs of problems with the septic system which will cost you thousands of dollars to repair.

Check for leaking pipes - Some people may think that an occasional leaking pipe is minor, but consistent leaking over a long period of time can lead to structural damage, including leaks through the floor down to lower level rooms. Check underneath all kitchen and bathroom sinks for leaking pipes. Ensure any pipes that are leaking get repaired immediately. While insurance companies cover damages caused by flooding and burst pipes, slow leaks such as ones from leaking pipes generally are not covered.

Check water temperature and pressure - Turn on the showers in the house and make sure the water gets hot and the pressure is at an acceptable level. If the water does not get hot, there may be an issue with the water heater that you need to address. If the water pressure is weak, this may point to a mineral build-up around the showerhead or problems with the water pipes drawing water into the home such as inadequate size or a clog preventing water from getting through.

The plumbing in a house can create many issues that are costly and inconvenient, from leaks to water shortages. Following these tips will ensure that the plumbing system in the home you are considering will meet your needs for years to come.

Considerations for a “Retirement-Ready” Home

June 10, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

According to the Census Bureau, there are about 52 million people who are 65 or older, and this number is only expected to grow. We are fortunate to live in an era of medical and technological improvements, which have helped us to live longer! While some senior citizens will inevitably transition into some form of assisted-living situation, many will opt to "age in place" in their own homes as long as possible. Instead of researching nursing homes, they will seek out homes that offer them the ability to stay independent. What are some of the features they should be looking for in order to improve their quality of life and facilitate their goal to remain at home?

Location, location, location: As with any real estate search, location is key. This includes proximity to family members, medical providers, hospitals, and grocery stores. Think about your interests and hobbies as well. For example, if you like to hike or cycle, does the area have a good system of trails and paths? If you don't tolerate cold weather, is the climate mild? Does the area provide venues if you enjoy attending concerts, shows, and sporting events? Will you be fully retired or perhaps seeking part-time or even full-time work? Visualize how you plan to spend time and what activities will improve your quality of life.
Financial considerations: It usually makes sense to move to an area with a lower cost of living and less expensive housing. It pays to take into account other factors too, such as taxes, homeowner association fees, and insurance. Plan ahead! What will your retirement income be? Will you need to supplement it with a job? It pays to consult with a financial or estate planner.
Specific architectural features: Many home builders now incorporate "retirement-ready" features into the construction of new homes. These include wider doorways, one-level living, "paddle" style levers instead of traditional door knobs, handrails and grips in the bathroom, walk-in bathtubs, non slip flooring, hard-wired alarms, security systems, and enclosed garages, just to name a few. If a home health aide or other assistance is needed at some point, does the house have a bedroom and bathroom that could be dedicated to live-in help?
Community amenities: Many neighborhoods have homeowner associations, or HOAs. The fees for these often include the upkeep of lawns and common areas, and they may provide a clubhouse, workout room or gym, swimming pool, and social activities. HOA fees can get expensive, so you need to balance the cost with the benefits you receive.
Opportunities for socialization: Studies of "Blue Zones," geographical areas where people live unusually long and productive lives, tout the importance of social connection and a feeling of usefulness and contribution to the community. It is worthwhile to check out volunteer opportunities and other avenues for making social contacts.

With a plan in mind and a blueprint for the kind of life they intend to lead, senior citizens of today and tomorrow can chart a new course in independent, lifestyle-based living.

Gardening in Small Spaces

May 10, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

Gardening in Small Spaces

The only thing better than summer vegetables is knowing that you've grown them yourself. You don't have to miss out just because you have a small space. There are plenty of plants you can grow on your windowsill or on your patio. If you follow these tips, you'll have enough success to share with friends.

Grow up, not out - Potted plants can take up a lot of space, and that's not ideal when you're working in a small area. Thankfully, clever gardeners around the world have come up with a practical solution - vertical gardening. Utilize the wall rather than the ground space, and you'll double or triple your garden's space.

Choose smaller varieties of plants - You know that corn stalks wouldn't grow in a tiny vase, and you should apply this line of thinking to choosing the varieties of foods that you grow in containers. From peas to peppers and tomatoes to cucumbers, some dwarf and bush varieties were created especially to grow in small spaces.

Think outside of the container - Having a productive patio garden doesn't have to be expensive. With any quick look around your home, you should be able to find a suitable container without spending a penny. Things like old buckets and laundry baskets are perfect for plants such as potatoes and strawberries.

Use the right soil - Since your container plants won't be able to source nutrients from the ground, choosing the right soil is vital to your garden's success. Experts recommend a mix of quality potting soil and peat, but creating your own compost is even more fun.

Too much sun can be detrimental - Even if you are growing sun-loving plants like tomatoes, container plants come with a different set of rules. Because of the reduced surface area, the roots of a container plant can overheat easily. Given that certain containers absorb more heat than others, it's a good idea to make sure your plants are getting just the right amount of light. Too much light can be harmful.

Monitor water levels carefully - Just as easily as your plants can dry out from too much heat, they can also suffer from too much moisture. Overwatering your plants - or planting them in containers with poor drainage - can cause the root system to rot. Keep a careful eye on your plant's specific needs, and make sure they have adequate drainage holes.

Fertilize according to plant needs - As a general rule of thumb, container gardens should be fertilized once every couple of weeks. However, certain plants require more frequent feeding while they are in the fruiting stage. Do a little research about your plants and tailor their fertilization schedule as they need it.

Just because you have a small space doesn't mean that you can't have a decent-sized harvest. With a little thought, a little inventiveness, and a little dedication, you'll be making summer dishes with your own homegrown food.

How to Compare Homes in Different Metro Areas

April 11, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

The cost of buying a new house is more than just the listing price. In fact, it is unlikely you will know the true cost of buying a home until you've lived in it for a certain period of time. This is one factor that makes it difficult to compare houses that are located in different metro areas. If you focus on the list price only, you may fail to notice the other cost implications of choosing a particular house. How can you compare houses located in different metro areas to get a better idea of how much value you are actually getting for your money?

What Is the Rest of the Neighborhood Like?

One of the most accurate measures of the real value of a house is the neighborhood in which it is located. You may find two similarly priced houses in different neighborhoods, but are these houses the norm or the exception? If you spend a fortune on a home in the wrong neighborhood, you may not be able to sell it for a profit later on. This is why you should consider the cost of similar properties in the same neighborhood or whether it is the only property of its kind in the area.

Will Life in a Particular Metro Area Come with Greater Expenses?

In the beginning, buying property in a low-cost metro area may seem like a good way to pay less and still get a good home. However, if the neighborhood has security issues, for example, living there can be more expensive. Your home and car insurance rates will likely be higher due to the increased likelihood of theft or vandalism. You may also have other additional costs such as higher transportation, private school, taxes, or food costs. In the long run, the money you save by choosing a particular neighborhood could end up being money spent on unforeseen living expenses. That's why it is important to evaluate the differing costs in each metro area.

Commuting Distance

Another important factor is your commuting situation. Will you be driving a longer distance to work or perhaps using public transportation? Commuting can cost you a lot of money in fuel expenses, car insurance costs, and transportation fares. A long commute can also have a negative impact on your career and home life. A great house with a longer commute may end up being a bad deal.

Access to Amenities

When you need to go shopping or walk your dog, having certain amenities close-by will be very convenient. Many homeowners pay extra for this access. If you need easy access to a school, a park, or any other amenity, you should consider which of the two properties offers what you want when you're looking at homes for sale.

As you can see, comparing homes in two places is not as simple as just comparing the sticker value. It's wise to consult a real estate agent in each area who can help you get acquainted with the pros and cons of each property you are considering. This will help you make a well-rounded and thoughtful decision.

Top 9 Tips for Hosting Your Next Holiday Party

November 15, 2021 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

The holiday season is coming up, and with that time comes plenty of opportunities for you to get together with friends and family to enjoy each other. If it's your turn to host one of the holiday get-togethers, you might begin to feel nervous as the season draws closer. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can make the party you throw go more smoothly, be less stressful for you, and be even more fun for your guests. These are nine of the best tips around.

Have Plenty of Seating and Standing Space

If you're hosting a party in a house that's smaller than what you think you'll need for the number of people you're having over, you need to get a little creative with your space. Getting rid of furniture that's bulky but provides only small amounts of seating might be the best way to go. For instance, you could move the big sectional in your living room to the garage for the time being. Instead, use smaller chairs with cushioned seats to keep things comfortable for guests. You should also plan out the traffic flow if you think that you're going to have more people than your floor space could normally handle. Finally, think about a space for the kids, who usually want to play when they have the opportunity to be around their cousins or your friends' children.

Prep Ahead As Much As Possible

Whenever you're looking for a way to be prepared, you should look into finding a way to prepare food ahead of time. While there are some things, such as the ham and many of the other hot food items, that taste best when fresh, you can still prepare many of the salads, desserts, and appetizers at least a couple of days before you have your party. If you're making pickle, ham, and cream cheese rollups, it's super simple to make these several days before you have your entire group of friends and family at your house.

Suggest a Party Theme

Yes, we know that you might just go with Christmas or Thanksgiving as your theme, but it can also be fun to have a special theme so that everyone has an opportunity to show off their creativity and maybe even have a contest with it. For instance, ugly Christmas sweaters is a popular one. But you might have your guests do a whole slew of other activities, including coming up with their favorite holiday movie.

Keep Plenty of Drinks Around

There are only a few things that crash a party worse than running out of drinks. While you might not want to keep so many drinks around that you have guests drinking in huge excess, you also don't want to run out of festive and tasty treats. At the same time, you don't want to be stuck in the kitchen making drinks all night. So what are you supposed to do? There are a few tricks that you can incorporate to make sure that you have plenty on hand throughout the party. The first tip is to have plenty of pre-made options available.

Make a List

It's incredibly important to know that you have everything covered, and you'll feel more prepared if you have a list of everything you need to do, all the things you intend to buy, and all of the people you want to invite. This list is the perfect way to ensure you have everything set so you can be comfortable about having everything ready when your guests do finally arrive.

Have a Budget

While we all want to have a good time around the holiday season, money is one of the biggest things that people stress over during the holiday season. We're all spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on things related to the holidays, including gifts for other people and food. Set a budget so that you have one less reason to be stressed out. Then you need to hold yourself accountable to it.

Let Others Help

When you send out the invitations, don't be surprised if people start calling, asking if you want them to bring a side dish or their best cutout cookies, and you should let them help. It lets your guests feel a sense of pride when they see other people enjoying their contribution, and these seemingly small contributions can cut several hours off your prep time.

Have Trash Cans Within Easy Reach

The worst part about a party is the clean-up time. Save yourself at least some of the hassle by putting trash cans in strategic places around the rooms where you'll be having the party. If you have a trash can in plain sight, people are much more likely to decide to throw that paper plate away than if they must weave through lots of people to reach the trash can in the kitchen. Having plenty of places to through garbage away also frees your guests up to socialize with each other rather than search out a place to put their used Solo cups. Plus, you could cut out an hour or more of cleanup time when the guests leave.

Use an Itinerary

When you host a holiday party, you’ll probably have a few activities planned. There's nothing worse than realizing you're way behind schedule and people are starting to leave before you've been able to get to some of the best stuff. If you're having a party and will be doing a white elephant gift exchange or some other well-loved game after dinner, make sure that you have allowed for plenty of time.

Hosting a holiday party is a lot of work, but you can make it more enjoyable for your guests and yourself if you have an idea of what you want to accomplish and some ways that you can make it easier on yourself. Use these ideas to make your holiday party more comfortable and fun for your guests and yourself. Happy holidays indeed!