DOWNSIZING YOUR HOME? BELL CAN SMOOTH THE WAY
Whether you’re looking to save money, reduce debt or, simply, simplify your lifestyle – maybe it’s time to consider downsizing your home. Of course, your mortgage lender is the first person you should talk to you for some numbers and options.
Buying Before You Sell? No Problem!
One of the downsides of downsizing is concern about your ability to find and close on a new house before you’ve sold your current home at the price you want. Some people opt for a bridge loan or a home equity loan to get them over the gap.
If you’re interested, or know someone else who’s downsizing, contact your favorite Bell Bank Mortgage lender!
CREATE YOUR DREAM INTERIOR ON THE CHEAP, WITH THRIFTING
With trending styles like bohemian chic, retro and mid-mod, it’s easy to see why so many homeowners and DIYers are turning to thrifting for decorating ideas and objects.
Just Google “thrift stores near me,” and you should come up with a great list of businesses and nonprofits that offer second-hand items in their stores. Their stock can turn over frequently, so you’ll always find something different – that’s the fun of thrifting!
When you’re ready to shop, keep in mind a few thrifty tips, inspired by Kadie Pangburn’s “A Home Is Announced” blog:
• Instead of shopping randomly, make a list of specifics you’d like to find for your interior – such as lighting, decorative pots or a casual reading chair.
• See the style by imagining what that particular item might look like in your home. Bring a tape measure (just in case!), and pack a few paint chips and fabric swatches, so you can see how the item might look within what you’re planning.
• Locate second-hand stores in the area where you’d like to shop – handily, they often are clustered near each other – and plan your route, so you can hit several in one trip.
• If you land on one or more favorite thrift shops, find out if they have a restock day – then go early, so you can get in and see which old merchandise is new (or at least, fresh for that store!).
(Find Kadie’s full “Ultimate Guide to Thrifting” at https://ahomeisannounced.com/2022/09/13/my-ultimate-guide-tothrifting-tips-tricks-for-scoring-beautiful-second-hand-home-decor/.)
Have fun – and remember, one person’s “thrift” might turn out to be your “treasure”!
QUIZ: WHAT’S YOUR HOME STYLE?
For most of us, our home is our castle, whatever our style. Yes, what we can afford matters – but many homeowners fall in love with their small starter home just as fast as if it were a custom build.
What’s your home style? We’ve developed this fun quiz, so you can find out.
1. When it comes to your “stuff,” how much do the two of you own?
A. Only the necessities, and a few family photos.
B. A little tasteful and trendy, but nothing too extreme.
C. Curios and mementos galore – love my stuff.
D. Must. Rent. Storage unit.
2. What’s your favorite and most-used chair?
A. Kitchen counter seating – to socialize whenever.
B. Reading chair and ottoman (or recliner with cupholder) –camp out in comfort.
C. Couch or sectional – I like to spread out.
D. Movie theatre seating – something custom and leather.
3. Which home-decorating era attracts you?
A. Cool, sleek and modern.
B. Mid-mod (hardwood floors, painted trim, eclectic style).
C. ’70s and ’80s, baby! (Soooooo great when shag carpet came back).
D. Baronial (my home is a literal castle).
4. What kind of yard do you want to hang out in?
A. Yard? Noooooooo – there are bugs out there!
B. Ample space for family barbecues.
C. Lawn-mowing heaven.
D. Formal gardens and elegant ponds.
5. What’s your plan for kids or pets?
A. Cat tree.
B. Dog house.
C. Playset.
D. Boarding schools and riding stables.
Scoring – spoiler alert! Score 1 point for each A answer, 2 points for each B, 3 points for each C and 4 points for each D response. Total up your score and start thinking about what type of home might steal your heart. Compare your score to the categories below, see how your results fit your own personal style – and consider it next time you’re ready to redecorate, remodel or look for a new home.
(0-5 Points)
Carefree Condo
You embrace simplicity, preferring minimalism over an accumulation of things. An urban-style condo might be just the place for you.
(6-10 Points)
Blissful Bungalow
You like kicking back in a space that’s truly yours. And you’ll never be bored, with all the home projects in your starter cottage!
(11-15 Points)
Living Larger
You’re ready for family time and space. Different levels, decks and a nice yard will give you some room to grow.
(16-20 Points)
Marital Mansion
Your home is your castle. As much luxury as you can afford (or perhaps, someday, a custom build) – that’s for you!
ENHANCE YOUR ENJOYMENT OF OUTDOOR SPACES
Ready to spend some time on the outside of your home? Integrate your deck, patio, yard or other outdoor spaces into your home’s decorating style – and enjoy the outdoors even more this summer.
Whatever the size of your home, and your outdoor space, here are a few ideas to get you started.
• Add a hammock or a comfy chaise (even if you have a condo with a balcony, you could add a hammock) for real chilling.
• Create a games area, whether it’s a bistro table and chairs, or space for yard competitions like a bean bag toss.
• Add ambiance with string lights, especially solar-powered options that you don’t have to plug in.
• Create a container garden. Potted plants bring color and life to any size backyard or balcony.
MORTGAGE TRENDS AND YOU … AND ME!
When it comes to mortgage and housing trends, I’m happy to be your go-to expert. Stay up-to-date on rate changes and on markets and the mortgage industry as a whole, by following me and Bell Bank Mortgage on social media.
Technology is always evolving. Keep your eyes and ears open for new technology that can better serve you in your home ownership process – and when you’re ready to buy, ask me about the free tools we have available.
Regulations can change as well – for instance, the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement will impact buyers and sellers in ways yet to be determined. As your mortgage lender, I’ll help you navigate every step of the process.
As a Bell Bank Mortgage lender, I take pride in adapting to changes in the market and helping clients find the mortgage options that are right for them.
We Love Your Referrals!
Referrals from my satisfied clients are a big part of my business. If you have friends or family who are interested in buying a home, we’d love you to send them my way, so we can help them find and finance their dream home.
4 TIPS FOR SUMMER ENERGY SAVINGS
When the weather is warmer, and you’re trying to keep your house cooler, it’s time to look at where you can save the most energy – and money.
Check out these tips from the U.S. Department of Energy:
• Operate your thermostat efficiently. Keep your house warmer when you’re away, cooler when you’re home. Remember, the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temps, the lower your cooling bill will be.
• Cool your home with fans. But remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room.
• Use appliances and lighting more efficiently. Look at lighting with cooler temperatures, take advantage of daylight instead of artificial lighting when you can, and wash full loads of dishes and clothes.
• Lower your water heating costs. Set your water heater at no more than 120 degrees to conserve energy and save money.
(For still more seasonal tips, visit https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/spring-and-summer-energy-saving-tips.)
