© REALTOR® MAGAZINE The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage inched up this week, but still remains well below averages from a year ago. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage closed the month of August by averaging 3.6%, nearly a full percent lower than a year ago, Freddie Mac notes. “Low mortgage rates along with a strong labor market are…
Some homeowners take on more than they should with do-it-yourself home projects. They could wind up hurting their home value. Homeowners hope to save money through DIY takes on projects, but some lose that savings when they sell. Chicago-area home inspectors recently shared with The Chicago Tribune some of the common DIY mishaps they most often see,…
How homeowners treat a yard this autumn can determine the quality of their yard next spring and summer. Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, offers up the following checklist for homeowners who want to lay a strong groundwork for a great yard next spring: Keep mowing. Grass still needs regular care…
Drilling a hole in the wall to hang pictures or a TV might sound like a simple DIY project. But handyman services are warning that homeowners could do a lot of damage to a home if they aren’t careful. Many homes have pipes and wires that run through a wall. Homeowners who are unaware of these could…