Blog

Which is which? Although all are part of the common-interest housing category, condos, co-ops, townhouses, and apartments may mean different things to different buyers, so here is a breakdown of what each word means and the advantages or disadvantages of one over another for the ... read more >>

It's the first impression that makes your home memorable: Make sure the entry way is clean, clear and clutter free. Relocate bulky furniture that makes the entry seem smaller. Avoid coat racks and umbrella stands that jut out from the wall as well. Consider placing a fresh potte... read more >>

Your budget dictates that you buy an older home, but your heart wants that home to be environmentally responsible, so what do you do? Here are some ideas for making any home greener. If you plan for these in advance of your purchase, you might just lower your bottom line. Apply f... read more >>

When the housing market rebounded, so did home builders eager to show off their design skills. Buyers expect that newly constructed homes will be safer and more energy efficient, but they’re also looking for homes that meet the needs of the more modern buyer. Here’s a round-u... read more >>

30-year fixed rates dropped in the first half of January, many analysts expect fixed mortgage rates to go up somewhat in 2014, but to top out at around 5%. What this means for buyers is that while higher than 2013’s historic lows, the rates will remain favorable and predictable... read more >>

Finding a new home can be one of the most exciting times of your life. It’s a little like dating – the pursuit, the “getting to know you” period, the proposal (aka “offer”), and the marriage (aka “closing”). If you don’t want your relationship with a new house t... read more >>

Have you found that your Long Beach home or condo no longer suits your needs and lifestyle? Perhaps your family size has changed or you have recently retired and are just seeking something new. If you are in the 55 and over age bracket, you may find yourself in the market for a n... read more >>

Sometimes selling a home can feel like a big job – one with a thousand small tasks required to get it done. But many sellers make the job harder by ignoring or avoiding some of the biggest factors that contribute to a faster sale. Use this list to see if your house is truly... read more >>

Home buyers walk into a house with lots of questions. How much square footage does it have? How many bathrooms are there? Does the backyard have a fence? But soon they may be adding a new question to that list: How smart is the kitchen? With the spike in smartphone popularity, pe... read more >>

Is your home not giving you the lifestyle you need? Thinking about purchasing a second home? Now could be a great time to do so, but there are several things to keep in mind before taking the leap and purchasing a second home or condo. Does buying a second home make sense financi... read more >>