What To Know About Buying a Vacation Home with Family or Friends

Posted: October 25, 2023

If you frequently vacation with good friends or family, it may have occurred to you that owning a vacation home together might represent an opportunity to lock in your favorite getaway forever. With home prices in the stratosphere and stubbornly high interest rates, pooling your financial resources might be a great way to lower the cost of vacation home ownership. If done correctly, it could...

Creative Ideas for Outdoor Winter Hosting

Posted: October 19, 2023

Winter can feel like the longest season. With shorter days and colder temps, the winter blues can sink in fast. But don’t write off the possibility of hosting an outdoor party – even in the coldest months. With smart planning and a little creativity, you can still host a fun (and safe) gathering outside.Read on for must-know outdoor hosting tips – and some fun ideas...

How to Ensure Your Home is Prepared to Weather Any Storm

Posted: September 16, 2023

Although summer means warmer temperatures, it can also bring thunderstorms, with hail, rain, lightning, and strong winds. The following are some tips on preparing your home for harsh weather conditions and summer storms. Clear Your Gutters and Check Your Roof The exterior of your home is its first defense against interior damage. Clear and clean your gutters to direct water away from your home and...

Here’s Why You Should Always Sleep with the Door Closed

Posted: September 6, 2023

How much time do you have to escape a fire?Forty years ago, the average time people had to escape a fire safely was 17 minutes. Today’s homes only allow for three minutes or less to evacuate. Why? Modern synthetic construction materials, home furnishings and contemporary layouts allow fire to spread and become toxic much faster than in the past. (Test your knowledge of fire safety facts...

6 Common Problems Caused by Clogged Gutters

Posted: September 1, 2023

Raising a ladder to dig mud and leaves from your gutters never sounds like a fun job. But if you’re a homeowner, it’s worth the hassle. That’s because cleaning your gutters can help prevent anything from bees’ nests to a bad foundation.This year, resist the urge to put off the chore. Need some motivation? Learn about these common problems caused by clogged gutters.Why is Gutter...