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11
Protect Your Home From Theft During the Holidays
The holidays are just days away, and that means visions of decking the halls, hosting festive activities, and, of course, plenty of shopping is dancing in your head. Unfortunately, while you're distracted with your preparations, would-be grinches could be plotting to steal your holiday cheer.
Taking a few simple steps to improve your home's security today can help keep you, your family, and your possessions safe and sound this holiday season. Here are eight tips to help you get started.
- Be Smart with Social Media
Posting about your upcoming vacation on social media lets the entire world know your house will be unoccupied. As much as you might want to share your excitement, sometimes it's best to keep the details under wraps. Also, don't forget that crooks can also check public event RSVPs for more clues on when you're likely to be away.
27
Ice Castles Comes to Excelsior
Pure Magic. Pure Fun in Excelsior
Excelsior, Minnesota is thrilled to welcome Ice Castles to our city for the winter season.
Most Minnesotans are familiar with this local phenomenon. However, if you recently purchased one of our homes for sale in Excelsior, you might not know anything about this must-see event.
6
Excelsior Homes for Sale: 5 Reasons to Buy a Home During the Holidays
The holidays are just around the corner. With all the festivities, you may have forgotten to put something on your wish list, a new home! The holidays aren't the time of year most people typically think about buying a house, but there are some definite advantages. Here's why you should start your search for Excelsior homes for sale today.
- Less competition and inventory
Fewer people are house hunting during the holidays. If you've previously shopped and endured bidding wars, you may be more successful during the off-peak season. If you haven't started looking yet, but want to buy in a "hot" neighborhood, you may find less competition, increasing your chances of getting the home you want. If you're a first-time buyer, not having a staggering number of homes to choose from can make the job easier and there's less chance you'll overpay.
24
How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Loan
For many people, the financial side of home buying isn't quite as exciting as starting to look at houses. Many first-time buyers are anxious to get started, but before you head out to view Excelsior homes for sale in person, make sure to get a pre-approval letter from a reputable lender. You'll be glad you did!
Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval
Pre-qualification isn't a thorough process. Often you don't even have to speak to a lender directly. Plug in a few bits of information about your income, expenses and what you think your credit score might be and you're done. It can be useful to get an idea of where you stand financially and what kind of monthly payment you can make.
2
What You Need to Know About Buying Your First Home
The decision to purchase your first home is a life changer and knowing what to expect and how to plan your strategy goes a long way towards making the experience less stressful. By following a few simple guidelines before you begin your house hunt, you may save yourself time, money and frustration between now and the day you close on your dream home. Here are some of the most important factors you should consider before beginning your search.
5 Things to Think About When Buying Your First Home
- Personal Financial Picture
Knowing your home buying budget before you start looking at homes is a smart move for new home buyers. Have a look at your current expenses, income, and assets, then get ready to talk to your bank. Obtaining a pre-approval for a mortgage will firm up your purchasing budget and give you peace of mind as you search for a home. Be sure to factor in hidden homeownership costs when finalizing your budget including homeowner's insurance, property taxes, HOA fees, maintenance, and utilities.