Fabulous Prefabs: an affordable option for first-time homebuyers
You might be thinking, “will I ever be able to own a home?” The good news is that there are many options for homes that are both affordable and sustainable. The construction industry has traditionally consisted of “stick-built” homes, which are labor-intensive, and can take many months, depending upon weather conditions. The majority of construction…
Read MoreWhat is a “net zero” home?
Think of your home as an electric meter working backwards. When averaged over the course of 12 months, if your solar or other renewable energy system generates the same amount of energy as your house consumes, the effect is known as “net zero.” “Positive energy” is the result of your system producing more electricity than…
Read MoreGoodreads Giveaways
Ten lucky people throughout the U.S. and Canada are getting their signed paperback copies of Live in a Home that Pays You Back from our September giveaway. More than 3,300 people entered the contest. You can still try again! Another 10 signed books will be given away in the Goodreads giveaway starting October 10th. Winners…
Read MoreIndoor Air Quality – why it matters
A study completed by the International Energy Agency (IEA), Capturing the Multiple Benefits of Energy Efficiency, examined health outcomes resulting from energy-efficient measures completed by residential homeowners. A number of efficiency measures were studied, including insulation, air sealing, heating systems, and ventilation. Results from every type of measure indicated “reduced symptoms of respiratory disease,” and…
Read MoreHome Energy Scores
Give your home an energy checkup A home’s energy efficiency is based on a whole-house assessment. Known as an “energy score,” the efficiency rating of a home is based on measurable performance factors of individual appliances or operating systems. New homes today are often built under “green building standards.” After the home is completed, a…
Read MoreGoodreads Giveaway for Live in a Home that Pays You Back
Listed in Amazon’s top 100 best sellers in home renovations every day since its release, “Payback” is off to a great start! For the entire month of September, you can sign up to win a free copy by clicking on the link below. Goodreads Giveaway
Read MoreNon-traditional credit documents can strengthen mortgage approval
According to the data from the 2019 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) 8.9% of mortgage applicants (about 1.3 million people) were denied. The number one reason for denial is a high debt-to-income ratio, followed by “credit history.” Although the majority of consumers have a credit score, there are many with minimal credit experience or have…
Read MoreMortgage agencies update COVID-19 rules for self-employed borrowers
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has issued updated COVID-19 temporary rules for mortgages purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Mortgage lenders may apply the restrictions for loans currently in process; however, requirements are mandatory for all loan applications received on or after December 14, 2020. The COVID-19 temporary rule for self-employed borrowers has been…
Read MoreInspire someone you love to own their own home in 2021
20% Discounts! For print orders placed on BookBaby, enter the following discount codes at checkout: Housing Finance 2020: 2020E Hipoteca 2020: 2020S Welcome to the Agrihood: veggie Select your book from the home page, and choose BookBaby on the applicable list of book distributors.
Read MoreThinking about buying a home or refinancing your mortgage?
Interest rates have fallen to historically low rates, and home buying is more affordable than ever. If you are already a homeowner and thinking of refinancing–now is the time. However, these are challenging times and people are worried that they might not qualify for a new loan. Axiom Business Book Award Winner, Housing Finance 2020,…
Read More