Uncategorized – Homeowner Savings

Mortgage Mistakes You Should Avoid

Bad decisions on a $400,000 home loan can easily cost you $100,000.

If you already have a mortgage, it’s not too late to fix old mistakes (or avoid making them with your next loan).

You should review your mortgage every 2 years anyway.

Why? Because less income needed to payout your mortgage means more money for other areas of your life. Your mortgage is probably the biggest financial commitment you will make in life. It is easy to get right and just as easy to get completely wrong.

Most people are surprised to find out that a low interest rate is not the only factor in reducing mortgage cost and paying out a loan faster.

You won’t see lenders advertising most of the tactics available to you, as it’s not in their best interests – the longer it takes to payout your loan, the more money they make. Lenders make money by lending you as much as possible, for as long as possible and with fees as high as they can get away with.

1. You didn’t set up your loan with the right features

There are loan features that you might need now or down the track, such as an offset account or the ability to top up. These features do not have to make your loan more expensive, regardless of what an individual lender might tell you. It’s important to design a loan based on your needs now and in the future.

This is why independent mortgage advice, combined with the assistance of your financial planner, is so important.

2. You’re not getting commission refunded

Some mortgage brokers will cap their income and provide a commission refund. Getting commission refunded on an ongoing basis is probably the easiest way to put $10,000’s back in your pocket over the life of your loan.

It’s also the strategy that’s possibly least utilised, as not many people know about it.

The mortgage broker who arranges your loan receives an immediate commission payment. For a $450,000 loan, your broker would receive around $3,000 at settlement.

In addition, that broker will receive a yearly commission payment (called trailing commission). On a $450,000 loan, your broker would receive about $700 every year. Although that commission reduces as your loan size decreases, trailing commission can last up to 30 years. Mortgage brokers build their businesses on this recurring income. And while they should be paid, you may find one that caps the commission they take.

Trailing commission can create a bias towards lenders who pay a higher % to brokers. In other words, your broker might be swayed to recommend the loan that pays them the most. While many brokers put their clients interests first, this ongoing commission can reduce the incentive for your broker to give you advice on how to pay out your loan more quickly. They may be more inclined to recommend a fixed term with a fixed interest rate, when a variable may be more appropriate.

There are only a few mortgage brokers in Australia who will refund any commission.

Getting this money back, and using it as additional repayments, can take years off your loan.

A note: Some mortgage brokers will tell you they don’t receive commission, but their employers do – and those brokers are paid salary and bonuses to recommend particular lenders.

Can you avoid commission by going direct to a lender?

No – lenders will not bite the hand that feeds them by undercutting every broker in Australia. In addition, they use the commission saved to provide you with loan service otherwise provided by the broker.

How do you get trailing commission refunded if you already have a mortgage?

You can’t get trail commission back on a current mortgage, unless your broker is kind enough to start giving it back to you. However, you can review your current mortgage and work out if it’s worth refinancing.

To summarise, getting a commission refund:

1. Puts money back in your pocket, to help pay out your loan faster

2. Removes the chance your broker will recommend a particular loan because it pays them more.

3. You fell for cheap tricks with rate comparisons

You should almost never pay the Standard Variable Rate (SVR). Each lender’s SVR will vary with others – it is the basis by which your interest rate is determined but not the final rate you are likely to pay. Some banks have higher SVR and so will discount theirs by more to reach the ultimate rate you will pay. Some have lower SVR and so will only apply a small discount.

Therefore, comparing the SVR across lenders does not help you work out which loan is cheapest.

2 tricks to look out for:

Showing a large discount off their SVR to make you think you are getting a great deal. A big discount off a high price still costs more than a small discount off a lower price.
A lender comparing their lowest interest rate with the SVR of other lenders – rates you would never pay if you used those companies.

4. You’re sticking with the same mortgage ‘til the end

Home loans can become uncompetitive in only a few years, or less.

For starters, it pays to check your lender hasn’t jacked up the rate of your loan and is no longer competitive.

Competition improves loan features and you might be missing out on benefits if you stick with the same loan to too long.

You should check your loan remains the best option every 2 years. It costs nothing (but some of your time) to check if there is a better deal. And that time can save you thousands of dollars a year.

A tip: When you set up your mortgage, always assume that you will need to repay early or refinance. If suitable given your overall needs, take out a loan that has low or negligible break costs. This is another reason you should get advice from a broker who will consider the costs of exiting your loan early – ideally a fee based broker who takes their payment only from you, and not the lender.

5. You set your loan term as long as possible

Reducing your loan term just a few years can take $100,000’s off the cost of the average loan.

It’s not always the best strategy to go for the longest loan period possible. Paying a little more off your loan each month can make you significantly more wealthily over the long-term, or at least debt free earlier. You should look at the opportunities presented by a shorter mortgage, such as the ability to focus on your kids’ education once you’re debt free.

Your lender and mortgage broker want you to take out a 25 – 30 year loan as they are being paid interest and trailing commission for the entire time. The longer the loan the more money your lender and broker make.

And using a mortgage offset is not always the best strategy for some people, as the easy access to funds presents a temptation to spend the cash (a redraw facility adds an additional layer of admin and gives access to funds if needed). Always get financial advice with your mortgage advice.

6. You relied 100% on rating websites to make your choice

While useful as a tool for adding to a short list, rating websites are incomplete and often contain inaccurate information. The lenders they feature generally pay these sites and most sites will exclude lenders who aren’t willing to pay a fee. Some sites promote a lender’s most profitable (expensive) loans, rather than the cheaper loans also offered by the same lender.

There are often many inconsistencies in the results of top rating sites when compared with independent research.

7. You focused too much on interest rate

Interest rate is only one factor that influences the total cost of your loan. Going with the lender that offers the best initial interest rate doesn’t mean you have the cheapest loan.

Interest rates can change soon after your loan starts and you can quickly end up with a very uncompetitive and expensive rate. In addition, there are other costs that can make a loan significantly more expensive than it seems, based on the interest rate alone.

Fees might include:

– Lenders mortgage insurance

– Application fees

– Valuation fees

– Legal and settlement fees

– Rate lock fees

– Early payout fees (deferred establishment fees)

– Discharge fees

– Establishment fees

8. You went direct to the lender

Lenders love it when you walk in their doors without being referred by a broker, as they can pocket the commission they would normally have to give the broker. Lenders save by you going direct, not you.

If you deal directly with your bank, you will waste the opportunity to ask a mortgage broker for more broad advice (beyond one lender’s products) and you will never get any commission refunded.

In addition, there are some lenders who do not deal with brokers (or pay commission) and therefore promote cheaper loans. An independent mortgage broker can recommended one of these lenders, as they do not get paid via commission anyway (a traditional commission-based broker will never recommend one of these lenders).

9. You used personal rather than professional reasons for choosing your mortgage broker

Not all mortgage brokers are the same. I’d say almost 100% of people have no idea if they got the best mortgage available; and yet are happy to recommend their broker to their friends (let’s face it, usually because they ‘like’ them personally).

So don’t decide to use a broker simply because your mate is one, or recommends theirs because they ‘got a good rate’. Unless you happen to know an independent mortgage broker, if you use anyone else, you are using one of the 99.99% of compromised and biased brokers in Australia. And, this means you’re giving away $10,000’s of your hard earned cash in the form of commission over the life of your loan. And you may not get the best loan (and therefore pay more in interest and ongoing costs as well).

Everyone wants to support friends and family – and use people they recommend. Just keep this article in mind when you decide to give your business (and hard earned cash) to someone you know or a broker referred by a friend without a professional basis.

To be fair to many mortgage brokers, most are not aware of the inherent conflicts and costs associated with their profession (although most don’t ask or think about it critically). Brokers are taught by their employers, who make billions out of their associations with a hand full of lenders.

Remodelling Your Home: Government Programs That Help

Federal, state, and local government incentive programs for home remodeling are aimed at helping homeowners improve the value of their homes, which in turn supports the economy and helps strengthen communities. These are official programs that provide tax relief, low-interest loans, and other incentives, but they can be hard to find. For example, you may find a notice of a program on a postcard for a property tax increase. Currently, three major programs may be available in your area.

What They Are: Home improvement property tax exemptions.

What They Do: These programs allow for total or partial exemptions from your local property taxes when remodeling your home.

Eligibility Requirements: Eligibility varies by county or town, but typically any owner of one property can qualify. The property usually must be owner-occupied but not always.

Counties rarely itemize which remodels are allowed; instead, they define them in broad terms, such as “material, actual, and permanent property improvements that increase value.”

Downside: Relief from property tax is only temporary.

Who Offers Them: Written into state law, these programs are administered by tax assessors and counties or towns.

What They Are: FHA 203(k) Rehab Loan programs.

What They Do: Typically, when purchasing a home that needs remodeling, your first mortgage covers only the cost of the purchase, not the subsequent remodeling. Concurrently obtaining a remodeling loan may mean long approval times, high-interest rates, and balloon payments. Also, lenders don’t like to approve remodel loans at this time because your intended house, in its current less-than-perfect state, cannot act as proper collateral. Through FHA rehab loan programs, the U.S. government will insure your loan, wrapping the purchase and remodel amounts into one package and insuring it all for the lender.

Eligibility Requirements: Requirements are broad, ranging from minor (which HUD defines as $5,000 or more) up to a home that will be razed and completely rebuilt.

Downside: Inevitable red tape. However, independent consultants can help streamline the process for you.

Government home programs are limited to upgrades that increase a home’s value. Incentives do not apply to luxuries or amenities such as spas or outdoor kitchens. They also come with a few common rules for eligibility:

You must apply before doing the work. Incentives are not available for past renovations.
Types of remodels are limited. Programs primarily support basic rehabs that increase property value. For example, some property tax exemption programs will not cover replacing a composite roof with another composite roof but will cover an upgrade from composite to a higher-value material because this represents a property value upgrade. Some incentives even apply to tearing down a house and building a completely new one.
Oversight is required. At least one inspection is required to make sure that the project exists and that it is proceeding according to plans.
Home Improvement Programs

What They Are: Home improvement programs (HIPs); typically low-interest or no-interest loans.

What They Do: Help you save thousands when counties or other local governments subsidize the interest on home remodeling loans. Interest may be completely or partially subsidized.

Eligibility Requirements: Various eligibility rules may apply, but generally:
- You must be rehabilitating an existing structure; it’s not for buying a new home and not for building another structure on your property.
- Your gross income may not exceed a certain limit.
- The loan is not used for luxury items, such as pools or decks.
Downside: Not all areas offer HIPs.

Who Offers Them: Learn about loans offered in your area by contacting the local county tax assessor. You may be directed to a private lender to obtain a home equity loan, or HELOC, subsidized by the county.

How to Save Money as a Homeowner

Your house gives you so much: security, pride, shelter. With all that on the line, it’s easy to assume the costs of keeping it up just are what they are. But wait. There are plenty of expenses you probably make to keep your home in good order that are simply a waste.

Here’s how to save money each month without putting a dime of home value at risk.

#1 Cut Back on Laundry Detergent

Never mind the barely visible measurement lines in the cap: You typically only need a tablespoon of detergent. And, clothes actually get cleaner when you use less, because there’s no soap residue left behind.

#2 Clean Your Light Bulbs

What? Who does that? Well, smart people. A dirty bulb emits 30% less light than a clean one. Dust off both the bulb and fixture, and you might be able to cut back on the number or brightness of lights in each room without noticing any difference.

#3 Keep Your Fridge Full

Solid items snuggled together retain the cold better than air and help keep each other cold — requiring less energy overall. Leaving town for awhile and fridge is empty? Fill voids in the fridge or freezer with water bottles.

#4 Switch Your Bulbs to LEDs

By replacing just five of your most-used incandescent bulbs with uber-efficient light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, you could save $75 a year on your energy bill.

And LEDs last 15-20 times longer than incandescents, so you won’t have to replace them nearly as often.

#5 Cut Scouring Pads In Half

Most clean-ups don’t require a full one.

#6 Use Power Strips

Appliances like coffee makers, TVs, and computers continue to suck power even when they’re off — which can cost you $100 a year. And did you know the AC adapter for your laptop keeps drawing power even if the laptop isn’t plugged in? Stop this slow money burn by connecting them to an easy-to-switch-off power strip.

#7 Use a Toaster Oven When Possible

Toaster ovens use 50% to 70% less energy than a full-size oven.

#8 Set Your Water Heater to 120 Degrees

Hot water heaters often come with a factory setting that’s higher than you need. You’ll cool your water heating costs by 3% to 5% every time you lower the temperature setting by 10 degrees.

#9 Insulate Your Water Heater

For $30 or less, an insulating jacket or blanket can shave 7% to 16% off your water heating costs for the year. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions to avoid creating a fire hazard.

#10 Use the Right Dryer Cycle

If you’re using a high-heat setting for each load, you could be using more energy than you need. Almost all fabrics can be dried with a lower heat setting, such as the permanent press setting. It uses less energy and has the added bonus of extending the life of your fabrics. Save the higher heat for items such as sheets and towels.

#11 Use Homemade Cleaners

Many commercial products rely on baking soda or vinegar for their cleaning power, so why not make your own? Most homemade cleaners cost less than $1.

#12 Ditch Disposable Sweeper and Mop Head

Stop throwing money away every time you clean! Refill your Swiffer Sweeper with microfiber cloths. Just cut to size and use them dry for dusting or with a little water and floor cleaner for mopping. Or switch to a microfiber mop with a washable head.

#13 Stop Buying Dryer Sheets

Another easy swap? Give up your dryer-sheet habit (about $7 for 240 loads) in favor of wool dryer balls (about $10 for six, which last more than 500 loads each). Of course, depending on your laundry preferences, you can always just go without either.

#14 Wash Clothes in Cold Water

Just switching from hot to warm water will cut every load’s energy use in half, and you’ll reap even more savings taking the temp down to cold. And don’t worry: Your clothes will get just as clean from cold water, thanks to the efficiency of today’s detergents (except in the case of sickness; you’ll want hot water and bleach then).

#15 Don’t Rinse Dishes

Two minutes of rinsing with the faucet on full-power will consume 5 gallons of water — the same amount efficient dishwashers use during an entire cycle. Shocking, right? And it’s an unnecessary step, since most newer models are equipped to remove even stubborn food debris. Just be sure to clean the dishwasher trap regularly to keep your dishwasher running efficiently.

#16 Keep a Pitcher of Water in the Fridge

You won’t have to waste time and money running the faucet, waiting for it to get cold enough for a refreshing sip.

#17 Set a Timer for the Shower

The average American takes an eight-minute shower and uses about 17 gallons of water. It’s easy to linger, so set a timer for five minutes. Or try this more entertaining idea: Time your shower to a song or podcast segment.

#18 Install Low-Flow Fixtures

In addition to water-conserving practices, low-flow showerheads, which cost less than $10, and other fixtures can drop your water use in the shower by 43%.

#19 Water Grass in the Morning to Save on Your Water Bill

Turning the sprinkler on midday is kinda like watering the air — especially when the mercury soars. Lose less to evaporation by watering during cooler hours (but avoid overnight watering, when too-slow evaporation can invite fungus growth).

#20 Hack a Water-Hogging Toilet

If you don’t have a water-conserving toilet, there are water-saving retrofitting kits that could yield about $110 in savings every year. Or place a half-gallon milk jug filled with water into the tank — in the corner and away from the flapper and ball-cock assembly. Every time you flush, you’ll save.

#21 Close Closet Doors

Each closet and pantry may hold a paltry amount of square footage, but you’re still heating and cooling it. Add up all the storage space, and you’ve got the equivalent of a small room. Shut the doors to keep the conditioned air out.

#22 Program the Thermostat

Program your thermostat to turn the heat down by 3 to 5 degrees when you’re not home and at night, and set it to bump the temperature up by the same amount when the A/C is cranking. You’ll save $10 to $20 a month and never feel the difference.

#23 Don’t Crank the Thermostat Up or Down Too Far

Varying the setting by 10 or more degrees when you’re gone for work or over the weekend is overkill. Your HVAC system will have to work overtime to get back to the ideal temperature, erasing your savings.

#24 Use Fans Year-Round

Ceiling fans can reduce your summer cooling costs and even reduce winter heating bills — but only if used correctly. Flip the switch on the base to make the blades rotate counterclockwise for a cooling effect or clockwise to help distribute heat in the winter. And in the warmer months, an attic or whole-house fan can suck hot air out and help distribute cooler air so you can give the A/C a little break.

#25 Caulk or Weatherstrip Around Doors and Windows

Caulk may not have the charisma of something like solar panels, but using it to seal air leaks around doors and windows will deliver immediate savings rather than a 14-year payback. You’ll spend $3 to $30 and save 10% to 20% on energy bills.

For gaps between moving parts that can’t be caulked, add weatherstripping.

#26 Add Insulation

This is a bigger weatherizing project than caulking or weatherstripping, but it could yield more than $500 in yearly savings. While your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to the foundation, prioritize the attic, under floors above unheated spaces, around walls in a heated basement and in exterior walls.

#27 Plant Shade Trees

Block the summer sun to lower cooling costs. Planting one shade tree on the west side and one on the east side of your home can shield your home from the sun during the summer months (but avoid south-side trees, which block winter sun). By the time they’re 15 years old, these two trees can reduce your energy bill by 22% , while adding value to your home.

#28 Cool with a Cross Breeze

On a breezy day, open a window on the side of your house that’s receiving the breeze, then open another on the opposite side of the house. Make sure the window on the receiving side is open a little less than the exhaust side to accelerate the breeze. You can also use a fan if there’s no breeze outside.

#29 Check Your Mortgage’s PMI

If your mortgage was for more than 80% of your home’s purchase price, you could be paying more than $50 a month, and as much as $1,000 a year, for private mortgage insurance (PMI). So as soon as you have at least 20% equity in your home, contact your lender to terminate the policy — they aren’t necessarily required to notify you when you reach that threshold.

Another option for ditching PMI? If your credit score or debt load has improved since securing your mortgage, look into refinancing with more favorable terms.

#30 Check Your Home Insurance for Savings

Your homeowners insurance should change as your life changes. Buying an automatic generator or installing security alarms could reduce your premium by 5% or more.

Bundling your home and auto coverage could save even more — up to 20% off both policies. But the point is to compare and do a price check to see if you can save.

Surveys have found you could be paying a lot more than what another insurer would charge for the same coverage. So you could save by going with a new company, or by using their quote to bargain with your current provider.

#31 Borrow Tools Instead of Buying

How often are you going to use that $600 demolition hammer once you remove your bathroom tile? Not so much? Rent it from a home-improvement store for a fraction of the cost. Be sure to do the math for each tool and project though; sometimes the rental price is high enough to justify buying it.

Or join a tool lending library or cooperative to borrow tools for free or much less than retail stores.

#32 Cut Back on Paper Towels

Two rolls of paper towels a week add up to about $182 every year! Instead, try machine-washable cotton shop towels. They clean up messes just as fast and cost less than $2 for five. Save paper towels for messes that need to go straight into the trash, like oil and grease.

#33 Stop Buying Plants for Curb Appeal Every Year

A pop of color in your landscaping perks up your curb appeal. But instead of wasting household funds on short-lived annuals, invest in perennials that will keep giving for years to come.

#34 Make Your Yard Drought-Tolerant for Long-Term Savings

Save $100 or more yearly by replacing water-hogging plants and grass with drought-tolerant and native species, and beds of rock or gravel. You’ll save time on maintenance, too.

#35 Use Curtains as Insulation

Another way to practice energy-saving passive heating and cooling? Open curtains on sunny windows in the winter and close them up in the summer.

Buying a House: Working with Real Estate Agents

Real estate agents love working with people, but there are always clients who may unintentionally cross the line. Here are a few simple protocols you can use while shopping for a home that will keep you out of hot water and on good terms with real estate agents—especially your own agent.

Choose a Real Estate Agent

If you are interviewing agents, let each agent know you are in the interview stage.
Decide whether you want to work without representation, dealing directly with listing agents, or if you want to hire your own agent.
If you decide to hire your own agent, interview agents to find an agent with whom you are comfortable.
Never, never, never interview two different agents from the same company.

Understand Agents Work on Commission

Most real estate agents are paid a commission. If an agent does not close a transaction, they do not get paid. Agents are highly motivated to do a good job for you.
Agents are not public servants and do not work for free. Do not ask an agent to work for you if you intend to cut the agent out of your deal.
Very few real estate agents work on salary and if they do, you probably don’t want them.

Keep Appointments and Be on Time

If you are running late, call and let your agent know when you expect to arrive. Just show respect.
Be respectful, use common courtesy, and don’t expect an agent to drop what they are doing to run out and show you a home. You are probably not that agent’s only prospect or client. And if you are, it’s not a good sign.
Do not make an appointment with an agent and then forget to show up.

Do Not Call the Listing Agent If You Are Working With a Buying Agent

Listing agents do not want to do the buying agent’s job. Let your buyer’s agent do their job.
Listing agents work for the seller, not the buyer. If you hire the listing agent to represent you, that agent will now be working under dual agency. Conflicts of interest may occur.
If a listing agent shows you the property, the listing agent will expect to represent you. Ethics prevent a listing agent from showing preferential treatment. If you ask a listing agent to do you a favor and try to discount the price, it’s compromising integrity, and most won’t do it.

Sign a Buyer’s Broker Agreement With a Buying Agent

Ask about the difference between an Exclusive and Non-Exclusive Buyer’s Broker Agreement.
If you’re not ready to sign with a buyer’s broker, do not ask that agent to show you homes. Otherwise, a procuring clause may pop up.
Ask your agent if they will release you from the contract if you become dissatisfied. If they refuse, hire somebody else. Your agent should also be respectful of your goals.
Expect to sign a buyer’s broker agreement. It creates a relationship between you and the agent and explains the agent’s duties to you, and vice versa.

Always Ask for and Sign an Agency Agreement

The best and most practiced type of agency is the single agency. This means you are represented by your own agent, who owes you a fiduciary responsibility.
By law, agents are required to give buyers an agency disclosure. This document varies across state lines.
Signing an agency disclosure is your proof of receipt. It is solely a disclosure. It is not an agreement to agency. Read it thoroughly.

Make Your Expectations Known

Set realistic goals and a time frame to find your home. Ask your agent how you can help by supplying feedback.
If you expect your agent to pick you up at your front door and drive you home after showing homes, tell them. Many will provide that service. If not, they will ask you to meet at the office.
Let your agent know how you want them to communicate with you and how often. Do you want phone calls, emails, text messages, IMs, or all of the above?
If you are displeased, say so. Agents want to make you happy. Don’t be afraid to speak up.

Do Not Sign Forms You Do Not Understand

Realize agents are not lawyers and cannot interpret law. Don’t ask agents to give a legal opinion, prefaced by the statement you are not asking for a legal opinion.
Do not feel silly for asking your agent to explain a form to you. It’s their job. Many forms are second nature to agents but not to you, so ask for explanations until you are satisfied you understand.
Try not to sign forms titled “Consent to Represent More Than One Buyer.” This is never in your best interest. But sometimes you can’t help it because your agent could work for a large brokerage. That brokerage could represent more than one buyer, not your agent.

Be Ready to Buy

Bring your checkbook. You’ll need it to write an offer because an earnest money deposit may be required to accompany your purchase offer. And please, be preapproved.
If you aren’t ready to buy, you don’t need a real estate agent. You can go to open houses by yourself and call listing agents for showings—but be honest. Say you are “only shopping.” Look at homes online, but don’t waste an agent’s time if you aren’t ready to act.
If possible, hire a babysitter to care for children who are too young to stay out all morning or afternoon touring homes.

Practice Open House Protocol

Do not ask the open house host questions about the seller or the seller’s motivation. Let your agent ask those questions for you. Your agent will probably use a different approach that works.
Ask your agent if it’s considered proper for you to attend open houses alone. In some areas, it’s frowned upon to go to open houses unescorted.
Hand your agent’s business card to the agent hosting the open house. Sometimes this agent will be the listing agent, but often it is a buyer’s agent also looking for unrepresented buyers. Announcing you are represented protects you.

With a little respect and courtesy on both sides, you and your agent can have a successful relationship and smoothly navigate the process of buying a home.

Save Money on Homeowners Insurance

The price you pay for your homeowners insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, depending on the size of your house and your insurance company. From shopping around to making home improvements, here are some ways to save money while you adequately protect your home and assets.

Stay with the same insurer

If you’ve been insured with the same company for a number of years, you may receive a discount for being a long-term policyholder. But to ensure you are getting a good deal, periodically shop around to compare your premium with the prices of policies from other insurers.

Do not confuse what you paid for your house with rebuilding costs

Your homeowners policy is based on the cost to rebuild your home, not its real estate value. While your house may be at risk from theft, windstorm, fire and the other perils, the land it sits on is not, so don’t include its value in deciding how much homeowners insurance to buy. If you do, you’ll pay a higher premium than you should.

Don’t skimp—but do shop around

Having homeowners insurance is undoubtedly an expense—but it is also your protection against potential disaster and financial ruin. Homeowners policy prices vary from company to company, so do some comparison shopping and get the best deal you can.

Get quotes from at least three companies.
Contact the state insurance department to find out whether they make available consumer complaint ratios by company. If they do, check into the insurers you’re considering doing business with.
Check the financial health of prospective insurance companies by using ratings from independent rating agencies and consulting consumer magazines for reviews.
Don’t shop price alone. Remember, you’ll be dealing with this company in the event of an accident or other emergency. When you need to file a claim you’ll want an insurer that provides good customer service, so test that while you’re shopping, and choose a company whose representatives take the time to address your questions and concerns.
For price quotes, call companies directly or access information on the Internet. Your state insurance department may also provide comparisons of prices charged by major insurers.
Ask friends and relatives for recommendations for insurers and then do your due diligence.

Raise your deductible

A deductible is the amount of money that you are responsible for paying toward an insured loss. The higher your deductible, the more money you can save on your premium, so if you can pay above the minimum $500 or $1,000 deductible, for example, you may reduce the cost of your homeowners policy.

If you live in a disaster-prone area, your insurance policy may have a separate deductible for damage from major disasters, so be sure you take this into account when considering whether to raise your standard homeowners deductible.

Make your home more disaster resistant

If you live in a disaster prone area, you will have more insurance options to choose from if you take certain preparedness steps— for example, installing storm shutters and shatterproof glass or reinforcing your roof. Older homes can be retrofitted to make them better able to withstand earthquakes. Consider modernizing your heating, plumbing and electrical systems to reduce the risk of fire and water damage. These precautions may prevent excessive damage and the related work and stress involved in rebuilding.

Ask about discounts for home security devices

Most insurers provide discounts for security devices such as smoke detectors, burglar and fire alarm systems or dead-bolt locks. As some of these measures aren’t cheap and not every system qualifies for a discount, consult your insurance professional for recommendations.

Seek out other discounts

Types and levels of discounts vary from company to company and state to state. Ask your insurance professional about discounts that are available to you—for example, if you’re 55 years old and retired, or you modernize your plumbing or electrical systems, you may be qualify for a price break.

Look into group coverage

Does your employer administer a group insurance program? Check to see if a homeowners policy is available. In addition, professional, alumni and business groups may offer an insurance package at a reduced price. Whatever the offer, do your homework to make sure it is a better deal than you can find elsewhere.

Buy your home and auto policies from the same insurer

Many companies that sell homeowners insurance also sell auto insurance and umbrella liability policies. If you buy two or more insurance policies from the same provider, you may be able to reduce your premium. To be sure you’re getting the best price, make certain any combined price from one insurer is lower than buying the coverages separately from different companies.

Review the value of your possessions and your policy limits annually

Review your home inventory and any upgrades to your house or condo. Make sure your homeowners or renters policy covers any major purchases or additions to your home and also check that you’re not spending money for coverage you don’t need. For example, if your five-year-old fur coat is no longer worth the $5,000 you paid for it, you’ll want to reduce or cancel your floater and pocket the difference.

Another great way to save money on your homeowners policy is to take into account the cost of insurance while you’re shopping for a house and before you buy. These home buyers’ insurance guidelines provide tips on the locations, types of construction and other factors that will help keep down the cost of your coverage.

How to Easily Save Money as a New Homeowner

Just bought a home? Here are 4 money saving every new homeowner should know: from spring maintenance items to DIY home improvements.

Keep an eye on that spending! Whether you’re a homeowner for the first time or you’ve just moved into a larger home, there is a strong tendency to overspend at the outset. Here are some tips to help you avoid this common pitfall of new homeownership.

1. Get down and dirty with DIY

Speaking of decorating, here’s some golden advice for new homeowners: The possibilities are endless — and much less costly — if you’re willing to do a little bit of the hard work yourself. DIY home improvement projects such as painting and switching out hardware can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your new home without sending you spiraling into debt.

Note: Don’t spend time and money on projects that you aren’t qualified to do. Doing a project incorrectly can end up costing you quite a bit more time and money to fix. Play it safe. Stick to fairly simple projects until you get a better grasp of your home improvement skillset.

2. Get the boring stuff out of the way first

You’ve just shelled out for a down payment, closing costs and moving expenses. Your savings account is pretty drained, right? So what would be the worst thing that could happen right now to your home? A costly and unexpected issue — especially one that could have been avoided with some simple maintenance. Unfortunately, it’s not up to a landlord to handle these issues now.

Sure, your home inspector took a thorough look at the house before you purchased it, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t make your own rounds. Before you even consider picking out that new sectional or king-size bed, perform some new homeowner maintenance, including getting a head start on simple spring maintenance items. Then, make sure your budget stays protected by taking advantage of a home warranty — the rest-easy solution to those inevitable system and appliance breakdowns.

Bonus Tip: Was your new home vacant for a while before you moved in? Were some appliances missing, causing you to have to install new ones? Since you’re officially living there now, take a minute to ensure everything is hooked up and functioning correctly throughout the house. Any strange noises or smells? Water leaks? Have them checked out by a professional right away!

3. Get comfortable

Ask yourself: What absolutely must be done now, and what can wait? As exciting as this new lifestyle is, it will take some getting used to. Think about all the new expenses you have now, versus before. And the fact that you didn’t just want to get into the new house — you plan on staying there for a while. The best way to ensure that is to be smart with your money and take your time making this new place your home. Upgrading your master bathroom can wait until you’ve saved up for it. And adding on that deck doesn’t have to be something you do this year. Simply ensure you’re comfortable in your new home. The extra projects will happen. The new items will come. And they’ll be that much more exciting when you can easily afford them.

4. Get thrifty with your décor

Now that you’ve gotten the boring stuff out of the way, it’s time to get excited about adding your personal touch to the home. But how can you do that when your funds are running low? Open your mind to the idea that not everything has to be brand new — just new to you. Have your in-laws been talking about switching out their dining room chandelier? Tell them you’ll take it off their hands! Have your friends been talking about getting together for a group garage sale when the weather gets warmer? See if you can get a sneak peek of the items that they’re wanting to part with. And don’t hesitate to take advantage of all those resale groups online. You can find some incredible items in excellent condition at a fraction of the retail cost. No one will ever know the difference!

First-Time House Buyers: Essential Tips

Buying a home can be nerve-racking, especially if you’re a first-time home buyer.

These tips will help you navigate the process, save money and avoid common mistakes.

Mortgage down payment tips

1. Research state and local assistance programs

In addition to federal programs, many states offer assistance programs for first-time home buyers with perks such as down payment assistance, closing cost assistance, tax credits and discounted interest rates. Your county or municipality may also have first-time home buyer programs.

2. Explore your down payment and mortgage options

There are lots of mortgage options out there, each with its own combination of pros and cons. If you’re struggling to come up with a down payment, check out these loans:

VA loans Loans guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs sometimes require no down payment at all.

Conventional mortgages They conform to standards set by the government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and require as little as 3% down.
FHA loans Loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration permit down payments as low as 3.5%.

Making a higher down payment will mean having a lower monthly mortgage payment.

If you want the smallest mortgage payment possible, opt for a 30-year fixed mortgage. But if you can afford larger monthly payments, you can get a lower interest rate with a 20-year or 15-year fixed loan. Use our calculator to determine whether a 15-year or 30-year fixed mortgage is a better fit for you. Or you may prefer an adjustable-rate mortgage, which is riskier but guarantees a low interest rate for the first few years of your mortgage.

3. Start saving for a down payment early

It’s common to put 20% down, but many lenders now permit much less, and first-time home buyer programs allow as little as 3% down. But putting down less than 20% may mean higher costs and paying for mortgage insurance, and even a small down payment can still be hefty. For example, a 5% down payment on a $200,000 home is $10,000.

Some tips for saving for a down payment include setting aside tax refunds and work bonuses, setting up an automatic savings plan and using an app to track your progress.

Mortgage application tips

4. Compare mortgage rates

Many home buyers get a rate quote from only one lender, but this often leaves money on the table. Comparing mortgage rates from at least three lenders can save you more than $3,500 over the first five years of your loan, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Get at least three quotes and compare both rates and fees.

As you’re comparing quotes, ask whether any of the lenders would allow you to buy discount points, which means you’d prepay interest up front to secure a lower interest rate on your loan. How long you plan to stay in the home and whether you have money on-hand to purchase the points are two key factors in determining whether buying points makes sense.

5. Determine how much home you can afford

Before you start looking for your dream home, you need to know what’s actually within your price range.

6. Get a preapproval letter

You can get pre-qualified for a mortgage, which simply gives you an estimate of how much a lender may be willing to lend based on your income and debts. But as you get closer to buying a home, it’s smart to get a preapproval, where the lender thoroughly examines your finances and confirms in writing how much it’s willing to lend you, and under what terms. Having a preapproval letter in hand makes you look much more serious to a seller and can give you an upper hand over buyers who haven’t taken this step.

7. Check your credit and pause any new activity

When applying for a mortgage loan, your credit will be one of the key factors in whether you’re approved, and it will help determine your interest rate and possibly the loan terms.

So check your credit before you begin the homebuying process. Dispute any errors that could be dragging down your credit score and look for opportunities to improve your credit, such as making a dent in any outstanding debts.

To keep your score from dipping after you apply for a mortgage, avoid opening any new credit accounts, like a credit card or auto loan, until your home loan closes.

House shopping tips

8. Pick the right type of house and neighborhood

You may assume you’ll buy a single-family home, and that could be ideal if you want a big yard or a lot of room. But if you’re willing to sacrifice space for less maintenance and extra amenities, and you don’t mind paying a homeowners association fee, a condo or townhouse could be a better fit.

But even if the home is right, the neighborhood could be all wrong. So be sure to:

Drive through the neighborhood on various days and at different times to check out traffic, noise and activity levels.

Look at local safety and crime statistics.

Research nearby schools, even if you don’t have kids, since they affect home value.
Map the nearest hospital, pharmacy, grocery store and other amenities you’ll use.

9. Make the most of open houses

When you’re touring homes during open houses, pay close attention to the home’s overall condition, and be aware of any smells, stains or items in disrepair. Ask a lot of questions about the home, such as when it was built, when items were last replaced and how old key systems like the air conditioning and the heating are.

If other potential buyers are viewing the home at the same time as you, don’t hesitate to schedule a second or third visit to get a closer look and ask questions privately.

10. Stick to your budget

Look at properties that cost less than the amount you were approved for. Although you can technically afford your preapproval amount, it’s the ceiling — and it doesn’t account for other monthly expenses or problems like a broken dishwasher that arise during homeownership, especially right after you buy. Shopping with a firm budget in mind will also help when it comes time to make an offer.

In a competitive real estate market with limited inventory, it’s likely you’ll bid on houses that get multiple offers. When you find a home you love, it’s tempting to make a high-priced offer that’s sure to win. But don’t let your emotions take over. Shopping below your preapproval amount creates some wiggle room for bidding. Stick to your budget to avoid a mortgage payment you can’t afford.

11. Hire the right buyer’s agent

You’ll be working closely with your real estate agent, so it’s essential that you find someone you get along with well. The right buyer’s agent should be highly skilled, motivated and knowledgeable about the area.

First-time home buyer mistakes to avoid

With so much to think about, it’s unsurprising that some first-time home buyers make mistakes they later regret. Here are a few of the most common pitfalls, along with tips to help you avoid a similar fate.

12. Not buying adequate homeowners insurance

Before you close on your new house, your lender will require you to buy homeowners insurance. Shop around and compare insurance rates to find the best price. Look closely at what’s covered in the policies; going with a less-expensive policy usually means fewer protections and more out-of-pocket expenses if you file a claim. Also, flood damage isn’t covered by homeowners insurance, so if your new home is in a flood-prone area, you may need to buy separate flood insurance.

13. Not saving enough for after move-in expenses

Once you’ve saved for your down payment and budgeted for closing costs, you should also set aside a buffer to pay for what will go inside the house. This includes furnishings, appliances, rugs, updated fixtures, new paint and any improvements you may want to make after moving in.

14. Passing up the chance to negotiate

A lot can be up for negotiation in the homebuying process, which can result in major savings. Are there any major repairs you can get the seller to cover, either by fully handling them or by giving you a credit adjustment at closing? Is the seller willing to pay for any of the closing costs? If you’re in a buyer’s market, you may find the seller will bargain with you to get the house off the market.

15. Buying a home for today instead of tomorrow

It’s easy to look at properties that meet your current needs. But if you plan to start or expand your family, it may be preferable to buy a larger home now that you can grow into. Consider your future needs and wants and whether the home you’re considering will suit them.

16. Not budgeting for closing costs

In addition to saving for a down payment, you’ll need to budget for the money required to close your mortgage, which can be significant. Closing costs generally run between 2% and 5% of your loan amount. You can shop around and compare prices for certain closing expenses, such as homeowners insurance, home inspections and title searches. You can also defray costs by asking the seller to pay for a portion of your closing costs or negotiating your real estate agent’s commission. Calculate your expected closing costs to help you set your budget.

17. Not knowing the limits of a home inspection

After your offer is accepted, you’ll pay for a home inspection to examine the property’s condition inside and out, but the results will only tell you so much.

Don’t be afraid to ask your inspector to take a look — or a closer look — at something. And ask questions. No inspector will answer the question, “Should I buy this house?” so you’ll have to make this decision after reviewing the reports and seeing what the seller is willing to fix.

Make sure the inspector can access every part of the home, such as the roof and any crawl spaces.
Attend the inspection and pay close attention.
- Not all inspections test for things like radon, mold or pests, so be sure you know what’s included.

The Importance Of Efficient HVAC Systems

Heating and ventilation are of utmost importance in both homes and office buildings. That’s why we employ the help of HVAC systems. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems function to maintain the comfort and safety of building occupants. Heating and air conditioning components assist us by controlling indoor climate and proper airflow, ensuring that we neither freeze nor sweat like mad. Health benefits of a well-maintained HVAC system come into play with the prevention of mold, which frequently thrives in warm, damp areas. We want to do our best to maximize efficiency.

Upgrading HVAC Systems

HVAC systems have the potential to use upwards of 40% of the total electricity consumed in any building, as heating and especially cooling are generally run by electric power. The good news is that these systems have gotten much better since as recently as the 1970s, with modern air conditioners using 30-50% less energy to produce cool air. There are several ways to ensure that you get the most from your HVAC system, including upgrading it entirely. Keep a few things in mind upon deciding on a HVAC overhaul.

Size is Wise. To ensure maximum efficiency, you must have the correctly-sized heating and air conditioning equipment. Square footage of the unit and the area to be managed by it can play a small part, however this method doesn’t account for the building’s design or efficiency. A building that’s been renovated with updated windows and insulation will improve its own efficiency, requiring smaller heating and cooling units. Oversized HVAC units were common in old buildings and homes, but were often impractical. Using oversized equipment results in higher purchase prices and increased day-to-day charges for use. Therefore it makes good sense (or cents, given money savings) to swap out large models for their smaller counterparts.
Model Efficiency. Air conditioning units come in two variations: standard-efficiency and high-efficiency. Standard efficiency models get the job done and are affordable, but are perhaps not quite as powerful as the high-efficiency units. High-efficiency units pack quite a punch, but can carry large price tags. The best idea is to consult HVAC technicians to compare costs between the two types based on the entire life of the cooling unit. Standard units may have a smaller up-front sticker price, but will require maintenance over time, whereas high-efficiency units could function better and longer.
Supplemental Equipment. Different regions have varying temperature patterns, so supplemental HVAC equipment may be required. Dehumidification units are ideal for humid climates, as maintaining control over building humidity levels makes the environment more comfortable and permits equipment downsizing. Buildings in dry climates would benefit from using evaporative coolers, which use evaporated water as a cooling mechanism. Still more, as heating in dark and less insulated spaces like garages is often lacking, radiant heat to warm objects in a room will improve conditions and save on fuel. Many businesses also conduct heat-generating processes, like cooking, so heat recovery units would capture and reuse that same heat to manage heating and cooling costs.

Many buildings are impacted by what goes on inside the building just as much as (and sometimes even more than) the weather conditions outside.

Maintaining HVAC Systems

Heaters and air conditioners are generally well-functioning equipment. However, even they need a little help sometimes. Several maintenance measures can be taken to ensure maximum efficiency.

Call in the HVAC Technicians. Specialists in the fields of heating and air conditioning train rigorously in specialized programs at vocational schools like RSI, and can perform a variety of checks on your system. A few of these include combustion efficiency and refrigerant charge.
Clean those filters. You know how hair dryers gather dust and lint and proceed to decline in usefulness? Well, your air conditioner’s filters do the same thing—if you fail to clean them regularly. Dirt and gunk force it to work harder, so be sure to clean or replace the unit’s filters.
Inspect for leaks. Pipes and ductwork can potentially be major energy wasters. If ducts are leaking, cool air is released in all the wrong places, so make appropriate use of insulation and duct tape.

These and other measures will aid in overall HVAC system functionality. From unit size to additional equipment for better airflow, be sure to have your bases covered. And, if you run into a problem, qualified technicians with HVAC training are always a phone call away to remedy an issue or walk you through the steps to fix it. Whether you are at home or in the workplace, an efficient HVAC system enhances the quality of the space.

HARP Loans and Their Benefits Explained

If you are barely treading water with your mortgage payments, a loan through the Home Affordable Refinance Program, or HARP, may be for you. HARP loans are designed for home owners who need to refinance their mortgage loan to keep their homes but fail to qualify for typical refinancing. If you qualify, a HARP loan can help you obtain a mortgage with more affordable terms.

What Is a HARP Loan?

The federal government launched HARP in direct response to the home loan crisis of the early- to mid-2000s. With millions of Americans in danger of losing their homes, the Federal Housing Finance Agency began offering these special refinance loans in March 2009. The program is slated to run through December 31, 2015.

Although HARP loans are like traditional refinance loans in many ways, there are also some important differences. As with standard refinance loans, HARP applicants must submit a loan application, go through the underwriting process, and pay refinancing fees. On the other hand, HARP refinancing does not require homeowners to have equity in their homes. This is a big change from traditional refinancing, which imposes strict equity requirements on homeowners.

Who Is Eligible for the HARP Program?

Before applying for the HARP refinance loan program, it is important to determine if you meet the program’s eligibility requirements. Although the financial criteria for HARP qualification are quite flexible, other requirements are rather narrow in scope.

Homeowners must be current on their existing mortgage. Additionally, you must be able to show at least one year’s worth of timely payments. Homeowners must have no late payments within the previous six months and are allowed just one 30-day late payment within the past six to 12 months.

HARP loans are available for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties.

Your home’s fair market value must have declined since your purchase.
You must be underwater on your mortgage. Specifically, your loan-to-value ratio must be greater than 80 percent.
Your original mortgage must be guaranteed by Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae.
You must have closed on your original home loan before May 31, 2009. Home owners who closed after May 31, 2009, are not eligible for the program.

What Are the Benefits of a HARP Loan?

HARP loans offer home owners several benefits.

No mortgage insurance. Many home owners discover that refinancing will require them to pay costly mortgage insurance, which protects lenders from an owner’s default. With a HARP loan, you are not required to pay mortgage insurance, even if you owe significantly more than your house is worth.

More flexible underwriting requirements.

To make the program accessible to more people, HARP underwriting guidelines are significantly more lenient than those of traditional refinance loans. This means that borrowers with less than stellar credit or a high loan-to-value ratio are eligible.

Lower closing costs.

Closing costs are capped, which makes the HARP loan an attractive option for homeowners who qualify.

No appraisal.

In many cases, there is no appraisal requirement. Skipping the appraisal saves home owners both time and money.

Better mortgage terms.

HARP loans offer more attractive mortgage conditions, such as lower interest rates and shorter loan terms.

If you are struggling to get by, a HARP loan could help you avoid foreclosure. Although the federal government has extended the program once already, it has made no announcements regarding an additional extension. If you meet the program’s criteria, it is important to submit your application before the December 31, 2015 deadline.