Category Archives: Tips

Should you refinance your home even if you plan to sell?

Posted on by

 

Screen Shot 2015-09-16 at 8.33.46 AM

Should you refinance your home even if you plan to sell? – Wondering what to do in terms of your home refinancing when you plan to sell your house soon? Is it still worth refinancing?  Refinancing could still make sense in the long run.  Here are a few tips that will help aid your decision of refinancing your home.

 

Take advantage of lower interest rates

 

Investigating the process of refinancing is worth the time if it could save you money on your mortgage rates.  Who wouldn’t want to save some extra money?  The money save could be out towards a down payment on your next home (or that new car you have be eyeing).  Having a lower interest rate could lower the monthly mortgage payment and save you more money in the long run.  

 

Financial circumstances could change

 

You are planning on selling your home in the coming months but suddenly, your partner (or you) loses their income, or someone becomes ill, or your money for a new house is needed elsewhere in the family budget.  Refinancing could save you money in the meantime until you are ready for that new house.  You never know what could happen financially and taking advantage of refinancing to a lower interest rate could potentially be beneficial to the household income.

 

Facing a higher rate on your ARM loan

 

ARM interest rates adjust every so often and when the adjustment time is approaching, there is a possibility that the interest rate will increase.  Typically, it is in the best interest of the owner to refinance when they see the interest rate at a percentage they can afford before their adjustment period occurs and the interest rate ends up being higher than what they are currently paying.  It is always best to speak with a professional about ARM loans and interest rate forecasts, etc.


When the time comes to decide whether or not to refinance your home, it is always best to talk to a professional that can help you through the process.  They know the ins and outs of loans and the different types that will be the most beneficial to you.  Professionals in this area can help navigate through the loan vocabulary and help you better understand the process and if the timing is right to refinance your home loan.

Contact me today for a list of great mortgage professionals in this area.

 

 

Creative Storage Solutions For Small Spaces

Posted on by

Screen Shot 2015-09-10 at 11.12.52 AM

 

Creative Storage Solutions For Small Spaces – Tired of shoving things into places they don't belong? Sick of losing things because there's simply not enough room in your home? Problem solved! With these creative storage solutions, you can regain control over your space and achieve organization once more. 

 

Wall Strips

Some spaces you may not have deemed useful are those tiny strips of wall that are too small for artwork or pictures. We can often find these above or beside sinks in your bathroom and kitchen. Install some floating shelves in these spaces to de-clutter countertops. Then throw your toothbrush or dish soap on the shelving to provide a few more inches for your primping or cooking. Ikea offers great floating shelves of every style and length that might work for your small wall space.

 

Vertical Space

Another option for storing goods is to stop looking around you and begin looking above. Vertical space is a prime area for storage solutions you may have not considered before. Keeping dishes and appliances often used for special occasions may fit nicely on top of your kitchen cabinets. Also, installing a pot rack is always a no-brainer, storage saver. You can even mount pegs on your wall to store foldable chairs to keep on hand for extra guests in your living room or dining area.

 

Cabinets & Closets

You may already have a few storage spaces, such as under sinks or inside closets that you aren’t using to their maximum potential. Attach baskets to the back of cabinet doors to add a few extra inches of space for sponges and cleaners. Additionally, install shelves under the sink to take advantage of all the space, not just the ground space. Add a shoes rack to your closet door to open up floor space, hooks on the walls under your clothing rack for purses, totes, and briefcases, and low shelves on the floor for knick-knacks and other storage needs.

 

Smart Furniture & Creative Decor

Your bedroom can be especially frustrating place to store items due to the amount of storage it actually requires- space for clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories, linens, etc. Buy some framed corkboard to hang on your walls, and artfully hang your jewelry to make space on your dresser for other needs. Purchase some under the bed drawers for extra blankets and pillows.  Rather than having a table nightstand, buy one with shelving to add some extra room.

 

For creative storage solutions, take a walk through your home with a new perspective on space. Seek out square footage that is not typically considered- under your couch, high on your walls, your ceilings, and take advantage of what you find. With a few pieces of hardware and a little imagination, you can transform your home into a more organized place. 

 

 

Homeowner Tip: Undoing Water Damage In Your Home

Posted on by

Screen Shot 2015-09-01 at 5.50.57 PM

 

 

Homeowner Tip: Undoing Water Damage In Your Home – Water damage in your home can be devastating. Not only can you lose meaningful mementos, there can also be serious damage to the foundation. Here are six tips to help you undo the water damage in your home.

 

Dry It Out

Whether you need to rent industrial-size fans, or you have a small fan that will do the job, get them going to dry out the area that has been affected by the water. Once the area is dry you can assess the damage and figure out how to move forward.

 

New Paint Job

When you've dried out the area, if there is only visible damage on the exterior of a wall, a new paint job will do the trick.

 

Wet Insulation

If you find out there is wet insulation in the interior of the wall, check it out and replace it. It could be hiding damaged areas or screws. It’s best to replace the insulation immediately, rather than find out later on that it has done too much damage.

 

Mold

With water damage comes mold, and even less-harmful kinds of mold can affect your health. Tackle mold with a solution of 1 part bleach to 8 parts water – spray on the area, wait a few minutes and wipe away.

 

Clean Hard Surfaces

Some hardwood floors can bend and buckle, so it’s best to clean them and get them as dry as possible, as fast as possible.

 

Seek Help

Water damage is not something to take lightly – you’d rather be safe than sorry. Contact a water damage restoration professional to assess the damage and inform you on how to take care of the problem before it gets worse.

 

For more tips on how to undo water damage in your home, visit here.

 

 

Best Dessert Places in Columbus, OH

Posted on by

The (3)

Best Dessert Places in Columbus, OH

There are new restaurants popping up in the Columbus area every day, but where do you go if you just want what comes after the meal? There are a number of great dessert places in the area, and whether you’re in the mood for cake and cookies, or ice cream, you’ll have no trouble finding what you’re looking for. Here are five of the best dessert places in Columbus, Ohio.

Pistacia Vera

Brunch may be served daily, but it’s the delicious treats that make people want to come back for more. The macarons are the best in the area and if you’ve never tried one before, the time is now. You’ll never want a different treat once you try some of the goodies on this menu.

Pattycake Bakery

This one is calling to all of the vegans in the area. Not vegan? Not a problem. You won’t regret going to Pattycake Bakery the next time you’d like to indulge.

Mozart’s

This little Austrian bakery and piano cafe is perfect for a casual dessert date with friends or your significant other. With outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to spend a weeknight. Mozart’s is home to decadent pastries, in addition to some of the best entrees you’ll taste in the area – it’s not just a place for dessert.

Sugardaddy’s

Sugardaddy’s in Polaris will satisfy any sweet tooth you may think you have. The brownies are to die for, along with the plethora of decadent desserts. if you need a gift basket for your next special occasion, spoil your loved one with amazing desserts from Sugardaddy’s.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream

No Columbus dessert list would be complete without Jeni’s. With ten different locations throughout the Columbus areas, you can always find a Jeni’s nearby. These unique ice cream flavors will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting to try every other flavor on the menu.

For more information on some of the best dessert places in the area, visit here.

Outdoor Spring Decor Tips For Your Home

Posted on by

4.7_BRitaBoswell

Outdoor Spring Decor Tips For Your Home – The springtime is arguably the best time of the year. It’s beautiful, bright and full of so many different colors. Take full advantage of the season and make your home look it’s very best. Here are five great outdoor spring decor tips for your home.

 

Go Bold

If you’re redecorating your outdoor furniture, consider going bold with vibrant colors. New seat cushions or outdoor throw pillows will help enhance the beautiful colors of spring, not to mention a fresh new vibe could make the space more inviting.

 

Make the Most of Small Space

If you have a small backyard or back patio, make the most of the space by adding a small table and some chairs. It’s more important to be able to socialize in a small space, than just stare at a small space – and who doesn’t want to be outdoors in the springtime?

 

Plant Fragrant Flowers

One of the best parts about spring is the different smells. Fragrant flowers and plants will take your senses to a whole new level and will make guests feel even more welcome in your festive, fragrant home.

 

Install Lighting

Whether you’re installing lights, lanterns or candles, light your outdoor space up with an additional light source. This will allow you to keep your outdoor activities going well into the night.

 

Add a Rug

Like an indoor space, a rug enhances the space and ties all of the colors together. Consider getting an outdoor rug on your back porch to do just that.

 

Decorating your outdoor space can be just as fun, if not more, than decorating your indoor space. To learn more about outdoor spring decor tips for your home, visit here.

Highligh: A Treehouse in Columbus

Posted on by

4.1_BRitaBoswell

Highlight: A Treehouse in Columbus

What do you do when you find the perfect house lined with old shade trees? Build a treehouse!

That’s exactly what Mike and Jamie O’Leary did when they found their home in Clintonville, Ohio. All they needed was the right sized yard, an old tree that was big enough, and they were able to accomplish their dream.

It’s not just for kids, either! “I do yoga up there occasionally,” says Jamie.

Before this, they were living in Italian Village in a small industrial loft, so they really wanted to find something more “family friendly.” Although they loved living in Italian Village, they needed something more practical for kids.

The O’Leary’s wanted a place that kept them near certain things, such as parks, farmers’ markets, and libraries.

After a year of looking, they finally made a decision on the Clintonville house.  They adorned their home with pieces from Grandview Mercantile, IKEA, Clintonville online Facebook groups, Etsy, and Wholly Craft.

After moving around from Philadelphia, to D.C. and New York, they settled on Columbus to be closer to both of their families and found an amazing food and beer scene in central Ohio.

Mike aims to soundproof the garage for space to practice with his band, We Are The Movies, make the porch an art room for his daughter, finish the attics, clean up the yard with some landscaping, and making some improvements to the basement.

The O’Leary’s are very happy with their decision in Clintonville, as it is very kid-friendly and Clintonville did just top Columbus Underground’s reader poll as the Best Neighborhood of 2014. Let’s see if it can keep it’s title in 2015!

Do you spend any time in Clintonville, Ohio? Let us know in the comments below!

How to Calculate Mortgage Payments

Posted on by

3.17_FRitaBoswell (1)

How to Calculate Mortgage Payments

It is important to calculate your mortgage payments to understand exactly what you owe and how your loan is being paid down. The easiest and least time consuming is to use a Mortgage Calculator. Ask your Realtor if they have one available or check out the option below.

You can use the mortgage calculator to help determine how much you can afford and to even see the the effects of adding extra payments and how it will effect the payoff date! This is a convenient tool to help you pay off your loans.

Just click on the link here and enter in your mortgage amount, the term or length of your loan, the interest rate, and the date your mortgage starts.

The calculator then shows you what your monthly payments would be.

To determine what it would look like to add extra payments a month, a year, or even as a one time extra payment you can add them in the next section.

By calculating the one time payments on top of your regular calculated monthly payment you will be able to see how your pay-off date can change.

Check out the mortgage calculator to find out what you can afford and to help you determine if making extra payments can change your payoff date!

Things to do in Central Ohio This March

Posted on by

12.21_Banner (3)

Things to do in Central Ohio This March – There are a plethora of things going on in central Ohio this month. Whether you’re looking for an activity for the whole family, or you just want to spend a night out with friends, you will have plenty of options. Here are five things going on near you this month.

1. Jig Thursdays

When: March 6

Admission: Free to attend

On the first Thursday of the month make your way out to Historic Dublin for Jig Thursdays. There will be a plethora of music, arts, casual shopping and upscale dining throughout the area.

2. 2015 Dublin Ohio St. Patrick’s Celebration

When: March 14

Admission: Free to attend

It’s time for the greenest day of the year in one of the most festive cities in Ohio – Dublin! Make your way out to Historic Dublin with the whole family for the annual celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

3. Westerville Symphony Orchestra Masterworks II

When: March 15

Admission: $20 – $25

For a unique date night out, grab your significant other and head out to Cowan Hall at Otterbein College Theatre. You will have the opportunity to hear the beautiful sounds of Copland, Milhaud, Ibert and Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue featuring guest pianist Richard Lopez and Peter Stafford Wilson.

4. Mac Worthington: Urban Sprawls

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays this month

Admission: Free

Make your way out to the Dublin Arts Center for what is sure to be a beautiful exhibition. Columbus-based artist Mac Worthington exhibition will feature a series of abstract and expressionistic cityscape paintings.

5. The Street Players

When: Fridays this month

Admission: Free to attend

Gather some friends and make your way out to LaScala for live music, dancing and what is sure to be a great night of fun. There will be first-come, first-served seating available in the Martini Lounge, with all-night Happy Hour specials for all.

 

For more information on all of the great events and activities available to you in Central Ohio, visit here.

Tips for Spring Buying

Posted on by

2.17_BRitaBoswell

Tips for Spring Buying – Warmer weather means the return of more than just the sun and the flowers-it’s also the high season for the real estate market. It’s a great season to buy a home, since the weather is good for moving and for home improvement projects. However, since spring is the busiest time to purchase a new home that means that there is a great deal of competition among prospective home buyers. It’s important to be prepared for purchase before you begin your search for a new home. Below are a few tips to get ready for the buying process. Happy buying!

  • Set your budget. Your first step should be to decide how much you can afford to spend on a new home. Besides your asking price, also take closing costs, montly mortgage payments, a down payment, moving and other expenses into consideration. The Mortgage Bankers Association recommends that buyers spend no more than 2.5 times their income on a home. Total housing payments should not exceed 28 percent of your gross income, and total debt payments should be less than 36 percent.
  • Make a list of must-haves. What does your new home absolutely need to have? What features are negotiable and what are not? Research these now to save time when you’re searching.
  • Find a good real estate agent. A real estate agent can often give you valuable information that may not be available to you otherwise and help you find a home with all of your requirements within your budget. Ask friends and family for recommendations, or check online.
  • Get your mortgage pre-approved. Discuss your options for a mortgage with several lenders and choose the rate and terms that are right for you. This way you’ll be able to act quickly once you find a home that you love.

Keep these tips and mind and when spring hits you’ll be ready to find your new home!

5 Romantic Restaurants in Columbus

Posted on by

2.12_BRitaBoswell

5 Romantic Restaurants in Columbus, Ohio

Valentine’s Day is upon us, and that means it’s time to plan how you’re going to spend the most romantic day of the year. If you’re looking to have a delicious meal in the Columbus area, there are some amazing restaurants to choose from – but where do you start? No matter what kind of cuisine you’re craving on Valentine’s Day, there’s something in Columbus to suit your taste.

Below are ten of our top picks for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Bon appétit!

  1. Mitchell’s Ocean Club: With delicious signature drinks, warm environment and amazing steakhouse cuisine, this Cameron Mitchell restaurant is perfect for steak and seafood lovers. Be sure to make reservations beforehand!
  2. Akai Hana: Are you craving sushi for your romantic night out? This restaurant in Upper Arlington is just the ticket with authentic Japanese sushi, a fun and exciting atmosphere and excellent service. Be sure to try the scallop roll or the Dragon roll!
  3. Hubbard Grille: Located in the popular Short North arts district, this American-style bistro serves modern takes on your favorites in a low-key, social setting. Perfect for a more casual Valentine’s Day dining experience!
  4. Cooper’s Hawk Winery: Pair your delicious, romantic dinner with a glass (or bottle) of wine from this fantastic winery! Ask your server for a great wine pairing for your meal, and prepare to end with dessert!
  5. The Melting Pot: Fondue for two? Yum! Share a pot along with some drinks, then have some chocolate fondue for dessert. What a unique Valentine’s dinner!

Where is your favorite place to have a romantic evening out? Share it with us in a comment below!