Embracing Spring: Tips for Refreshing Your Home

Spring is finally here, and with it comes a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, it's the perfect time to breathe new life into your home. At Porteus & Son Builders, we're here to help you make the most of this season of change with our expert tips and services.

• Outdoor Living Spaces

• With the arrival of spring, outdoor living spaces become a focal point for relaxation and entertainment. Add a patio, deck, or pergola to your backyard to create the perfect setting for al fresco dining and gatherings with family and friends.

• Our team specializes in designing and constructing outdoor spaces that seamlessly blend with your home's architecture and natural surroundings, providing a serene oasis in your backyard.

One of our favorite products, the Navien Combi-boiler saves energy and space.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

• Spring is the ideal time to invest in energy-efficient upgrades for your home. From installing new windows and doors to upgrading insulation and HVAC systems, many ways exist to improve energy efficiency and lower utility costs.

• Our experienced contractors can help you identify areas for improvement and recommend cost-effective solutions that will make your home more comfortable and eco-friendly for years to come.

One of our most recent projects was a bathroom remodel for a client.

• Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling

• A kitchen or bathroom remodel can breathe new life into your home and significantly increase its value. Whether you're looking to update outdated fixtures, expand storage space, or enhance functionality, our team can bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship and attention to detail.

• The possibilities are endless, from modernizing your kitchen with sleek countertops and state-of-the-art appliances to transforming your bathroom into a spa-like retreat with luxurious finishes and fixtures.

• Exterior Maintenance

• Spring is also a time for exterior maintenance to ensure your home remains in top condition throughout the year. From cleaning gutters and inspecting roofing to repainting siding and sealing driveways, our team can professionally handle all your exterior maintenance needs.

• By addressing maintenance tasks proactively, you can prevent costly repairs and preserve the beauty and integrity of your home for years to come.

At Porteus & Son Builders, we're dedicated to helping you create a home that reflects your unique style, needs, and lifestyle. Whether you're considering a major renovation or simply looking to refresh your space for spring, our team is here to provide personalized service and expert guidance every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your spring home improvement projects with Porteus & Son Builders.

What Happens During Pre-Construction?

The pre-construction phase of building a home is a crucial stage that lays the foundation for a successful construction project. It involves tasks and planning activities to ensure the project progresses smoothly for all our clients. Here are the critical steps involved in the pre-construction phase:

1. Project Planning:

• We help you define the size of the home you want and your goals.

• We thoroughly analyze the project with you to ensure it is within your budget, timeline, and regulatory constraints for where you want to build your home. This analysis estimates the construction cost in the area you wish to develop through our construction management platform, Buildertrend.

2. Budgeting and Cost Estimation:

• We create a detailed estimate for you on Buildertrend, including land acquisition costs (if you choose to purchase land from us), permits, design, construction, materials, labor, and contingencies.

3. Site Selection and Evaluation:

• We help you choose an appropriate location based on accessibility, zoning regulations, proximity to amenities, and soil conditions.

• We conduct site surveys, soil tests, and environmental assessments to ensure the land is safe for building your home.

4. Contract Signing and Financing:

• We work with your bank or lender of choice (we can also recommend some excellent lenders) to submit all the necessary paperwork to secure financing for your home! (Note: we do not include financing costs or attorney fees in our estimates.)

• We work with your attorney (if you choose to hire one) to negotiate a contract for our services and close on the land (if you’re purchasing land through us). 

5. Design and Architectural Planning:

• We help you hire an architect or a design team to create a concept and detailed blueprints for the home. (We can recommend a few phenomenal architects.)

• We incorporate your vision, preferences, and any specific requirements.

6. Obtaining Permits and Approvals:

• We identify and obtain the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities, including building permits, zoning variances, environmental clearances, and regulatory compliance.

7. Subcontractor Selection and Bidding:

• We go through the process of assembling the proper team of subcontractors through competitive bidding and negotiation.

• During bidding and negotiation, we consider factors like experience, expertise, reputation, and pricing.

8. Scheduling and Timeline Development:

• We create a detailed project schedule that outlines milestones, tasks, and timelines from pre-construction through completion, which you can see through our client portal on Buildertrend.

• We consider factors like weather, material availability, and labor availability.

9. Risk Management and Contingency Planning:

• We identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

• We establish contingency plans for unforeseen events that may impact the project.

10. Procurement and Supplier Management:

• We source and secure construction materials, equipment, and services from reliable suppliers and subcontractors.

• We establish contracts, delivery schedules, and quality standards with all our vendors and subcontractors.

11. Safety Planning and Compliance:

• We develop a comprehensive safety plan that addresses potential hazards and outlines safety procedures for workers and visitors.

• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.

12. Communication and Stakeholder Management:

• We establish clear lines of communication between project stakeholders, including you, the design team, us, and subcontractors through Buildertrend.

• We post regularly on Buildertrend to update you on progress and to address concerns.

13. Establishing Project Documentation:

• We ensure all project documents are appropriately filed in Buildertrend for ease of accessibility for everyone on the project, including contracts, blueprints, permits, and any other relevant paperwork.

The pre-construction phase is critical for setting the stage for a successful construction project. Thorough planning, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial elements to ensure a smooth transition into the construction phase.

A New Home Might be Right for You, and Here's Why.

Buying a newer home can offer several benefits, such as open-concept floor plans, energy-efficient features, and state-of-the-art appliances.

Here's a quick rundown to learn if a new construction home would work for you:

New

• They are built to obey the latest building codes and safety regulations.

• They are built to exceed industry standards in technology, energy efficiency, and building practices.

• You may have the option to match your style with home customization.

• Our homes rarely need the number of upgrades and upkeep of a pre-owned home.

• Immediate move-in upon completion.

• A chance to design your home to match your lifestyle.

Pre-Owned

• Inspections could find damages such as structural, electrical, water, and code violations.

• Outdated home appliances, cooling/heating units, and water heaters may need replacement.

• You have limited customization options with amenities different from your style.

• Final repairs and renovation costs exceed your initially planned budget.

• Necessary repairs and renovation could delay your initial move-in date.

• Maintenance is often looming, leading to endless tasks to meet your standards.

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At Porteus & Son Builders, we understand that building your dream home is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It's a chance to create a space that reflects your personality, accommodates your unique needs, and serves as a sanctuary for you and your loved ones.

Imagine waking up every morning to a home that surpasses your expectations, where every room exudes elegance and comfort, and every corner tells a story of quality and craftsmanship.

We invite you to take advantage of our complimentary consultation offer to embark on this exciting journey. This consultation is your opportunity to sit down with our team, who are passionate about bringing your vision to life.

Why should you fill out our consultation form? Well, here's why:

1. Expert Guidance: Our team of experts will guide you through every step of the building process. From understanding your unique requirements to suggesting innovative design ideas, we have the knowledge and experience to ensure your dream home becomes a reality.

2. Customization Options: Your home should reflect your personality and style. During the consultation, you can discuss customization options, choose the layout, select the materials, and create a home that stands out from the rest.

3. Cost Transparency: Building a home involves financial investment, and we understand the importance of transparency. Our team will provide you with accurate cost estimates and help you explore financing options, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the financial aspect of your project.

4. Unparalleled Quality: We always strive for quality at Porteus & Son Builders. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we strive to deliver homes that surpass all expectations. From the foundation to the finishing touches, we adhere to the highest standards of craftsmanship.

5. Attention to Detail: We take great pride in our attention to detail. Every aspect of your home, big or small, will be meticulously planned and executed precisely. You can rest assured that no stone will be left unturned for your dream home.

Are you ready to take the first step towards creating a home that will fill you with joy every time you walk through the door? Please fill out our consultation form today, and let's begin this exciting journey together.

Remember, this consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Take advantage of this exclusive opportunity! Provide us with a few details, and our team will contact you to arrange your personalized consultation.

Building your dream home is as easy as filling out a form. Don't wait any longer; start your journey towards a home that embraces your dreams and aspirations.

Speaking Up

Not commenting on current events in the United States as a company operating in the United States would be insensitive and tone-deaf. There aren’t many words we can say ourselves, so instead, we will let the words of another much wiser than we are speak for us:

“I Have A Dream”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, gave this speech.

August 28, 1963

I am happy to join with you today, in what will go down in history, as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation. Five score years ago, a great American in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves, who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity, but one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination.

One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society, and finds himself in exile in his own land. And so we’ve come here today to dramatize this shameful condition. In essence we have come to our nation’s capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note, to which every American was to fall heir.

This note was a promise that all men, yes Black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked insufficient funds. But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity in this nation. So we’ve come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.

We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children. It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro’s legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. 1963 is not an end but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content, will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual.

There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America, until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. Whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges. But that is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads to the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force.

The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom.

We cannot walk alone.

And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.

We cannot turn back.

There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities.

We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating: "For Whites Only.”

We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until "justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream."

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest -- quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed.

Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.

So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of "interposition" and "nullification" -- one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today!

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight; "and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together."This is our hope, and this is the faith that I go back to the South with.

With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

And this will be the day -- this will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning:

“My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim's pride, From every mountainside, let freedom ring!”

And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.

And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire.

Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.

Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania.

Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado.

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California.

But not only that:

Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.

From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, and when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual:

Free at last! Free at last!

Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

Sneak Peek: Ponderosa Renderings

Hi everyone! Happy Sunday! I had to pop on here and quickly show you some of the renderings we got back from our illustrator of the newest version of our Ponderosa model that we are building on New Road! We are so excited about this charming home, and we think all of you will love it.

Front Elevation

As you can see in this photo, gorgeous pine trees will surround the whole home, and the driveway will be on the left side of the house, leading up to a side-facing two-car garage.

Main Living Area

The main living area is the center of the home. It has high ceilings, a gorgeous fireplace, and so many windows.

Dining Area

This is one of the visualizations of the dining area. This home has so much light, and the ceilings are so high in the main living area; it’s a dream.

Kitchen

Our kitchens come standard with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and gorgeous cabinetry in various finishes.

Living Room

This is just another visualization of the living room area of the home. Again, the fireplace is everything for Hudson Valley living.

If you are interested in learning more, schedule a super quick call with me below!

Spread Love Wherever You Can

Hi All. This is Amanda, CMO of Porteus & Son Builders. The past few days have produced some crazy headlines, and we just wanted to reach out to everyone to say we are here.

We are a business that will continue operating as usual, remotely. We have already been mainly working remotely because we are a building company, so whatever building site we happen to be on that day is the site we set up our offices on. Also, as a side note, the Ponderosa we are planning to build is being designed and will not be started until we are told it is safe.

To maintain continuity, I will take some time to post about positive things happening in this world for the next few weeks. The first positive news item I would like to focus on is how you can spread joy in your neighborhood right now.

Put Some Love On Display

The windows of our homes can be handy as displays for anything you would like to put out in the world. For instance, many families living in Louisville, Kentucky, are putting rainbows in their windows for children in the neighborhood to play a game of “I Spy.”

If you have a window on a street where anyone will be walking past, put up a nice, uplifting, kind word. You can be as fancy or as simple as you want. Street artists have been doing this for years, trying to beautify whatever city they’re living in. Street art and social upheaval have a long history together.

So, to keep this post short, put a rainbow in your window if you think a neighborhood child will see it. Put up some positive words if you think someone might need them. Just because we are in quarantine doesn’t mean we can’t communicate with the outside world.

Behind The Scenes: The Ponderosa

Hi there! This is Amanda, Chief Marketing Officer and Project Manager of Porteus & Son Builders. This past weekend, we did a little throwback and went to see one of the homes we built a few years ago, The Ponderosa, and had an excellent photographer and a very gracious owner who let us come by and take some photos. This impromptu photo shoot is because we are building this model in Wappingers Falls, NY, on a beautiful 1-acre plot of land surrounded by gorgeous pine trees in one of the coziest neighborhoods we’ve ever seen.

The Main Living Area

Our Ponderosa model has just the most wonderful main living area with a fantastic vaulted ceiling. The living area is open concept with the dining and kitchen areas all open. We also have wood floors as a standard in the common areas and hallways of all our homes.

The Kitchen Area

All of our kitchens come standard with stainless steel appliances and a choice of several wood cabinet colors, which you can take a look at on our Standard Finishes page.

More Living Room Magic

If we haven’t mentioned this before, WE DO BUILT-INS!! Exhibit A: this living room photo. That wall of cabinets are an available upgrade!

The Master Bedroom

All of our bedrooms in our homes have standard grade carpet installed, and man is there a huge selection of colors to choose from! Check them out on our Standard Finishes page.

If you want to purchase The Ponderosa, check out the information on the model we are building!

What To Do BEFORE Sitting Down with a Mortgage Broker

Hi there! Amanda here, the Project Manager and CMO of Porteus & Son Builders! I want to start this blog post by telling you a little about our past before Porteus & Son Builders. So, growing up, my father, the CEO, had two jobs. He was a New York State Trooper and owned a contracting company called Mid-Westchester Landscaping. They did more than just landscaping, but landscaping is how they started out.

After my father retired, he got his private investigation license and began doing private investigation work, and when I got out of college, I would work with him part-time on some of the cases he handled. We value the importance of investigating and asking questions, especially when someone will be taking documents containing your personal information.

Hiring a middle person isn't something anyone likes doing, whether the situation is about a mortgage or otherwise, but that's what mortgage brokers are: go-betweens. Describing them this way is often an unfair characterization, so we suggest a few things before you decide to sit down with any brokers. 

Investigate

Investigate their websites and reviews to narrow the field to brokers with consistently positive customer service reviews.

Listen

Listening before asking questions will give you a good idea of whom you could forge a better connection with.

Question Everything

These are the top five questions we think you should consider when you're sitting down with a broker:

1. How are they paid?

Transparency during the loan process is most home buyers' primary concern. Mortgage brokers typically get paid on closed loans, and their fee is often embedded in the lender loan origination fee. Make sure this fee isn't a large chunk of change.

When the sale is closed, they receive a lender commission wrapped up in the closing costs — about 2-3% of the total. The broker gets a portion of this, depending on who the lender is.

2. What type of loan would work best for you?

Mortgage brokers have access to an extensive list of lenders. Brokers research for you and negotiate terms to find the most beneficial agreement. You want a broker whose next step is to find out more about you before suggesting a loan type.

You want a broker who asks many questions about your income, down payment, and plans. You want to know the broker is considering what is best for you.

3. What are their hours?

Working with a mortgage broker usually means not having to deal with conventional banking hours. Make sure to find out what hours they work, though, for this reason.

4. Can they show you the breakdown for different down payment amounts?

Ask the brokers if they could give an itemization of the interest rate and fees for your house budget so you can compare the costs between, for example, putting 5% down and 20% down. Having a printout or an email from them with the breakdown is helpful when you are trying to decide between brokers.

5. Would they offer a rate match?

We don't suggest making any commitments during the days you initially interview brokers. We also recommend you investigate a few other lenders and compare their offers to what the brokers provided.

Once you have made this comparison, ask the brokers if they would offer a rate match. Some will, as long as you have an official offer.

In the two days following your meetings with each of the brokers you speak with (we strongly suggest meeting with at least two), look for open communication and speedy replies.

The communication style should be relevant to you. Depending on your lifestyle, you may prefer one broker's communication style over another's. 

Settling on a Broker

Feeling comfortable with someone who is handling such a large portion of your future is something we think is essential. A significant trust factor comes into play when someone takes your loan process and documents with sensitive information on them. Asking many questions is the only way to get what you want and be happy!

Happy Valentine's Day: Mortgage Rates Are At Their Lowest In Three Years!

Mortgage rates across the U.S. have fallen to a three-year low, a boon for house hunters and homeowners looking to refinance. 

The average 30-year mortgage charges 3.45%, while 15-year loans are 2.97%, according to Freddie Mac. That's down from 4.41% and 3.84% a year ago. Lower rates mean homeowners pay less for their house over the life of the loan. So anyone with decent credit shopping for a home is likely getting the cheapest interest rates in years, experts said. 

"The bottom line is that mortgage rates are plummeting to lows last seen in 2016, and for many homeowners, it's a profitable time to refinance," said Holden Lewis of personal finance site NerdWallet. "Even if rates rise slightly, they're still low by historical standards."

Several factors are pushing down mortgage costs. The Federal Reserve has kept rates low after cutting them three times last year amid signs of economic weakness, while inflation remains tame.

"And once [banks] start to expect that, they're willing to lend money over the long run at lower interest rates," said Bob DeYoung, an economist and business professor at the University of Kansas. 

Another reason mortgage rates have receded: European and other overseas investors seeking shelter from Brexit, the coronavirus, and other global risks have scooped up U.S. Treasuries, pushing down yields. Banks typically keep mortgage rates slightly above Treasury rates, so home loan costs have declined. 

Lewis noted that mortgage rates began falling in January, around the same time as the first officially reported coronavirus case. Mortgage rates fell "because of concerns that the new virus could potentially cause a pandemic that could disrupt global trade and slow the U.S. economy," he said of the move by investors into safe havens like U.S. government bonds. 

"If officials succeed in containing the virus and damping fears of its economic effects in February, then mortgage rates could stabilize or even rise," Lewis said. 

Until then, homebuyers are taking advantage of lower rates. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage applications rose 5% between the end of January and the first week of February. The association said all told applications are 11% higher than last year. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York noted mortgage originations have jumped to their highest number since 2005. 

"I wish when I was 25 years old, and I was buying a home, that I had rates like this year," DeYoung said. "This is such a benefit for people looking right now to buy a home." 

Why You Should Be Shopping Around For A Mortgage

The start of a new year is a popular time for setting resolutions around personal finances. There is an increased sense of urgency if one of your goals is to buy a home.

Downloading a budgeting app is a common first step in assessing your complete financial picture. Categorizing your spending might seem like a logical step for analyzing where your dollars are going. Still, many users fail to engage with the app thoroughly and get minimal benefits.

Anish Acharya, a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, explained on the company's website that personal finance management tools had not seen the adoption most expected. He asserted that "too often, these budgeting apps are akin to calorie counting — it's usually easier just to uninstall the app than to change our financial choices."

What are the other options if budgeting apps don't help consumers with the seismic shift they need to see to meet their goals? Is it even possible to save thousands of dollars yearly without dramatically changing your financial behavior?

The short answer for individuals or families considering buying or building a home is "Yes." It is possible by doing one thing: committing yourself to effectively shopping for a mortgage.

Why comparison shop?

Consumers compare nearly every purchase, including clothing, hotels, and flights. According to research by Expedia, travelers, on average, search for a trip 48 times before booking. Or, consider the experiences you've had shopping for a car. You might be willing to visit a dealership five, 10, or 20 miles away if you knew you'd save significantly on the price, right?

So how can consumers be content to see one loan offer and move forward without shopping around?

I believe it's a mix of two longstanding factors:

1. Most homebuyers get connected to a mortgage expert through a referral from a family member or friend and feel bad for questioning that recommendation.

2. They don't feel confident they know enough about loans and lending to ask the right questions when comparing numbers.

In 2015, the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau reported that "almost half of the consumers who take out a mortgage fail to shop before filling out an application." Nearly 50% of homebuyers are willing to make the most substantial financial investment of their lives without ensuring they get the best deal. Mortgage rates can vary between lenders by as much as 1%. Rates can vary within the same financial institution, depending on which loan originator you work with.

This fluctuation is possible because a lender's interest rate is mainly determined by the commission they pay their salesperson (often referred to as a "loan officer"). Many lenders allow their loan officers to choose from different commission plans.

For example, if you lower the interest rate on a $300,000 mortgage by 0.25% (e.g., 3.875% to 3.625%), you will save $747 your first year and $7,135 in the first ten years of your mortgage. That money can go toward other financial goals, like retirement savings or a child's college tuition.

The Bottom Line

It's critical buyers know all of their mortgage options. If you shop around, you can save a substantial amount of money each month and don't need to change how you manage your finances.

When the time comes to purchase a home, don't settle for the first lender that you're referred to. Instead, shop for your mortgage like you would for any other big purchase, and you'll get all the benefits savings apps to espouse without all the work.

Mortgages 101: What You Need To Know

A mortgage, basically speaking, is a loan. When you set out to purchase a home, no one expects you to have $500,000 in cash. So that’s where a mortgage comes in: You borrow the extra money you need to buy your chosen home, agreeing to pay it back in the coming years.

The considerable debt a mortgage incurs can be a burden. But its appeal lies in the fact that the mortgage helps you to buy an asset with the expectation that its value will increase over time, which adds to your financial portfolio, gives you a big tax break, and, you know, finances a place for you to live.

Along with being expensive, a mortgage can also be complicated, so we’re breaking down the basics for you.

Mortgages in a Nutshell

Since homes are pricey, a mortgage is a lending system that allows you to pay a fraction of a home’s cost (called the down payment) upfront, while a bank or private lending institution loans you the rest. You arrange to pay back that money, plus interest, over a set period (known as a term), which can be as long as 30 years. To make sure that you pay back the money you borrowed, you put your house up as collateral–so if you stop making payments, the bank can take the home away from you in a foreclosure process.

Why Researching a Mortgage Matters

Although you have a lot to gain from having a mortgage, it’s essential to understand the various ins and outs. If you take out a mortgage that isn’t right for you, leading to foreclosure, you’ll not only have to move–and, in general, wait between three and seven years before you are allowed to purchase another home–but your credit score will also suffer, and you could get a huge tax bill.

Ultimately, your choice of lender and the mortgage structure could save you (or cost you) thousands of dollars, so you need to understand the kind of research you need to do before taking out a mortgage. That’s where we come in.

How Do You Get a Mortgage?

The companies that supply you with the funds you need are “lenders.” Lenders can be banks or mortgage brokers with access to large banks and other loan lenders, like pension funds.

In 2012, the biggest lenders in the country included Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank of America. Many community banks or credit unions will make a loan to you initially and then sell it to one of these larger institutions. You want to ensure that whoever you work with directly has a reputation for being reliable and efficient because any delays or issues with closing on a sale will only cost you more money. Government loans are available through the Federal Housing Administration, but the availability of loans differs depending on where you live. You can view the requirements on the FHA website if you think you might qualify.

Mortgage lenders don’t lend hundreds of thousands of dollars to just anyone, which is why it’s so essential to maintain your credit score. That score is one of the primary ways lenders evaluate you as a reliable borrower–someone likely to pay back the money in full. A score of 720 or higher generally indicates a positive financial history; a score below 660 could be detrimental, but there’s no official credit score below which a lender won’t grant a loan. Some lenders may reject your application if you have a lower credit score, but there isn’t a universal cutoff number for everyone. Instead, a lower credit score means you might have a higher interest rate.

A charge you might see imposed by a lender is one for “points.” These upfront fees (they typically work out to be about 1% of the loan amount) are usually a form of pre-paid interest. If you already have a reasonable down payment, paying points may be a way to reduce your interest rate on the loan further, but they’re generally just a way for the lender to get more money upfront. Points are paid at closing, so if you’re trying to keep your upfront costs as low as possible, go for a zero-point option.

How Mortgages Are Structured

You’ll pay the principal, interest, taxes, and insurance with a mortgage–PITI. Note that unless you are a high-risk borrower, you can pay taxes and insurance separately from your mortgage, giving you a lower mortgage payment. Just remember that it’s up to you to save that money monthly, so you can pay the annual bill when it comes! Banks mostly prefer to collect the tax and insurance money in escrow because they spend only a little to maintain the account and have access to those funds.

Here’s how each component of PITI works:

Principal

This is the original amount you borrowed to pay your mortgage. The bank decides how much it will lend you based on income, credit, and the amount you plan to give for a down payment. If your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s price, the bank may consider you a riskier lender and charge you a higher interest rate or require you to purchase private mortgage insurance, commonly called PMI. (More on that below.)

Interest

This is essentially the cost of borrowing money. When you take out a mortgage, you agree to an interest rate, which will determine how much you pay a lender to keep lending. It’s expressed as a percentage: 5% to 6% is considered somewhat standard, but the rates depend strongly on a person’s situation–income, credit–as evaluated by the lender. Since a higher interest rate means higher monthly mortgage payments, lower rates might mean you can afford to borrow more money or pay the loan off faster.

Taxes

Property taxes support the city, school district, county, and/or state infrastructure, and you can pay them with your mortgage. They’re expressed as a percentage of your property value, so you can roughly estimate what you’ll pay by searching public records for the property taxes for nearby homes of similar value. If you’re a high-risk borrower, your lender might establish an escrow account to hold that money until it’s paid to the proper recipient–in this case, the government.

Insurance

Any payments reserved for homeowner’s insurance to protect against fire, theft, or other disasters are also held in an escrow account. (Again, this is something that you can opt out of escrow unless you’re a high-risk borrower.) If you’re a high-risk borrower–or lack the 20% down payment–you must also have private mortgage insurance (PMI), which helps guarantee that the lender will get money back if you can’t pay it for any reason. After you’ve paid off a certain amount of your mortgage, you can sometimes cancel the PMI (although this depends on your situation). Remember that PMI is meant to protect the lender, not the borrower–so it won’t bail you out if you default on your payments.

Mortgages are structured so that the proportion of your payment that goes toward your principal shifts over time. At first, you’re paying mostly interest; eventually, you’ll pay mostly principal. Your actual charges will be the same and distinguished on the lender’s end in a process known as amortization.

Types of Mortgages

There are a few different forms of conventional mortgages:

30-Year Fixed

This is the most popular payment setup for a mortgage. The borrower will pay a “fixed” interest rate for the next 30 years. It’s an appealing prospect because homeowners will pay the same amount every month. Fixed mortgages are best for homebuyers who buy when interest rates are low or on the rise, are counting on a predictable payment, and plan to stay home for a long time.

15-Year Fixed

These mortgages carry a lower interest rate and only take 15 years to pay off. These are best for homeowners who want to repay their mortgages and build equity quickly. Interest rates for 15-year fixed mortgages usually also carry lower interest rates than 30-year mortgages.

Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARM)

The interest rates on adjustable-rate mortgages are adjusted at predetermined intervals to reflect the current market. Some mortgages are a combination of fixed and adjustable: for the first three, five, or seven years, the rate will stay fixed and then be adjusted annually for the duration of the loan. In this case, the initial fixed rate tends to be lower than usual, but it may become more expensive than a 30-year fixed rate once the adjustable rate kicks in. This type of loan may be right for you if you plan to live in your home for approximately the same length as the original fixed term.

Remember:

• Before applying for a mortgage, you can build credibility by establishing good credit and accumulating savings for a down payment.

• A reliable, reputable lender is more important than a lender with unbelievably cheap rates–if it seems unbelievable, it probably is.

• A mortgage is a debt, but it’s considered good debt. It doesn’t hurt your credit.

The Difference Between an FHA and a VA Mortgage

FHA stands for Federal Housing Administration. VA is short for Veterans Affairs in the US Department of Veterans Affairs. They are both US government organizations that insure home loans. This article will walk you through the difference between FHA and VA mortgages.

In short, FHA mortgages are federally insured mortgages designed to help qualified borrowers buy a home with less money down and lower credit. VA mortgages are government-insured for active or veteran military service members and their spouses.

FHA Mortgages

The US Government also insures FHA Mortgages by the Federal Housing Administration. The FHA was created by the National Housing Act of 1934. The FHA sets standards for construction and underwriting and insures loans made by banks and other lenders. The FHA aims to improve housing standards and conditions by providing a sound home financing system and stabilizing the mortgage market.

First-time home buyers commonly use FHA loans. To qualify for an FHA loan, borrowers must meet the following qualifications:

• The borrower must have a satisfactory credit score, typically 580 and above, to qualify for the 3.5% low down payment advantage.

• A credit score of 500 – 579 will require 10% down for an FHA loan.

• The lower the credit score, the higher the interest rate.

• An FHA-qualified home must be a primary residence.

• Also, an FHA mortgage requires the borrower to pay mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) to insure the loan against the borrower’s default on the payments.

• The borrower must pay a minimum down payment of 3.5%, which a family member can gift.

• Borrowers must have a valid Social Security Number, lawful US residency, and legal age to sign a mortgage.

• FHA loans require a property appraisal from an FHA-approved appraiser.

• Borrowers must have two years of steady employment history with the same employer for the last two years.

• The borrower’s mortgage payments, HOA fees, property taxes, mortgage insurance, and homeowners insurance (the front-end ratio) must be 31% of their gross income. There are exceptions up to 40%, but the lender must provide ample documentation proving the risk acceptable.

• The total borrower debt, including mortgage and monthly debt such as credit card payments, car payments, or student loans, must be less than 43%. This is called the back-end ratio.

• There are exceptions up to 50%, but the lender must provide ample documentation proving the risk acceptable.

• Typically borrowers must be two years out of bankruptcy. Usually, borrowers must be three years out of foreclosure.

More information regarding FHA Loans and Qualifications can be found here.

As you begin thinking about the mortgage process, it’s a good idea to mentally model how it will look. If you are a first-time home buyer, our informative first-time home buyer blog may help you get started.

VA Mortgages

• The US Government insures VA mortgages through the US Department of Veterans Affairs. To qualify, a borrower must be a service member or veteran or a spouse of a military service member or veteran.

• Borrowers must have a satisfactory credit score, typically 620 and above.

• The borrower must also have a Certificate of Eligibility. The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) proves that the applicant officially meets the minimum military service requirements to qualify for a VA loan.

• The home must be a primary residence.

• The required down payment from the borrower for VA loans is zero percent.

• More information on Veterans Affairs guidelines can be found here on the US Department of Veterans Affairs Website.

VA and FHA Loan Limits

The maximum conforming loan limits are the maximum loan amounts on mortgages that the government entities Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will buy on the secondary market. This means that Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae will buy the mortgage to create bonds and securities backed by millions of US Homeowners’ mortgage payments. The 2018 Conforming Guidelines Loan Limits start at $453,100 and go up to $679,650 for a single-family residence, depending on which county the home is located. As long as your loan value is below the required limit, your loan will meet the conforming limits to qualify for an FHA or VA loan.

There is no time like the present to build your dream home. If you want to work with us, fill out the form below, and one of our associates will contact you!

Come On Board with us!

Getting It Together: A General Overview of Buying Your First Home

Buying your first home is a priceless time in life. It will lead you to form lasting connections with your community and neighbors. There are many new decisions to make, like which neighborhood, school districts, the number of garages, views, and more. 

Here are our tips for first-time home buyers.

Decide What Kind of Home You Want to Purchase

Fantasizing about what type of home you want and touring homes is exciting. Know which features are most important to you in your first home. Things like the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the amount of outdoor and indoor space, appliances, and the flow of the house are all essential criteria. Allow these to assist you in narrowing the search.

Think about move dates and how long you will live in the home. The time you plan to live in the house will help you decide which home loan fits your needs. Setting a goal for your purchase date will also help organize the search.

Choose your realtor carefully. There are several references for helpful information, including friends and family, open house listings, and online reviews. Often meeting with the realtor in person can help ensure they fit your needs.

Know Your Numbers

Understanding how much money you can afford to put down will help you figure out how much you can borrow. Having this knowledge will be necessary for helping you pick pricing for your first home. 

Select the ideal home loan based on your credit score, interest rates, and insurance. There are a wide variety of products. So it's a good idea to understand all your options. One of the benefits of working with a mortgage broker is access to a diverse set of lenders. 

A suitable Mortgage Loan Officer will take the time to help you understand all the best options.

Apply for your mortgage and get qualified.

The qualification will begin, so be prepared to provide any documents required throughout the home loan process. 

There is no time like the present to build your dream home. If you want to work with us, fill out the form below, and one of our associates will contact you!

Come On Board with us!

Our Newest Addition

We recently completed a beautiful new addition for one of our clients! We built a first-floor primary bedroom suite with a walk-in closet and shower to accommodate our client’s lifestyle. Check out the photos below.

There is no time like the present to build your dream home. If you want to work with us, fill out the form below, and one of our associates will contact you!

Come On Board with us!

All In A Day’s Work

Hi there! The past few months have passed so fast that I can’t believe we are now in August! We’ve been working hard over here on several nearly-finished projects! Our biggest project has been on the newest model in our collection, the beautiful Hawk’s Nest Home. Check out our gallery below for some behind-the-scenes looks at the latest model in our stellar line-up of homes.

Inspecting the utilities

Greg Porteus Jr. inspects the Navien Combi-boilers to ensure proper functionality.

A quiet moment in the hall

Our dreamy wrap-around staircase in our Hawk’s Nest model is being prepped for its final inspection!

Final back yard prep

We are giving our siding a once-over before its final inspection!

Final grading

Greg Jr. is hard at work on the final grading for the beautiful yard for our client’s new home. 

Tips For Including Your Pets In Your New Home Design

Pets are essential to the people that own them. They are important; first-time home buyers from the Millennial generation (33%) are looking for more pet-friendly than kid-friendly amenities. That was an unexpected finding from a SunTrust Mortgage poll.

However, the trend isn’t isolated to younger buyers. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) found that 67% of U.S. households owned at least one pet in 2018, an estimated 84.9 million homes.

If you’re in the bulk of homes with a pet, there are numerous approaches you can take to plan your new home to make it the most comfortable place for humans and animals.

Have Fewer Stairs

Just like people, it gets harder to walk and run around during a cat or dog’s life. The fewer stairs you have, the simpler it is for them to get around the house.

Secure Your Backyard

Condominiums have many advantages, but being able to unlock the door to let your dog outside isn’t one of them. One of the top amenities Millennial home buyers are searching for is a safe, fenced-in yard for their dog. It’s also necessary if you have a declawed cat that likes the outdoors.

Create An Outdoor Living Area

Pets love spending time with their owners. If they like to spend the day outside, planning an outdoor living area is a fabulous way to spend more time with your pets in their favorite place. It’s a modern feature that can increase the value of your home and provide a space for the family to unwind outdoors.

Install Pet-Proof Flooring

When you have a pet, mishaps are going to happen. Choosing the proper flooring can make life much smoother and protect the floors. It’s best to pick non-slip, hard surface flooring that’s very tough. If you invest in carpeting, make sure that it’s exceptionally stain-resistant.

Consider A Pet Area in the Mudroom or Laundry Room

When you create your plans with us, you can design a floor plan that makes your everyday routine much more manageable. A possibility that’s excellent for dog owners is to include a mudroom off the entrance into your home so that it’s easy to clean your dog off before entering the living space. Build in a little storage area for brushes, towels, leashes, and treats. This section is also excellent for food bowls and a litter box.

Be Aware of Dog-Friendly Amenities In The Neighborhood

When you are a dog owner, researching places to take your best friend is fun! Look for places like:

• Green space

• Dog park

• Hike and bike trail

• Lakes

These promote physical activity and motivate you to get outdoors with your dog.

Be Aware Of Animal-Friendly Rules

Dog parks are great, but be sure to review the animal ordinances for the community before selecting the place you want to live. The city’s zoning laws can restrict what kinds of pets are permitted.

At Porteus & Son Builders, we pride ourselves on creating layouts that have something for everyone. Check out some of our models here and request a free consultation today!

Undermount vs. Drop-In Kitchen Sink: Buyer's Guide

While the world of kitchen sinks is vast and varied (there are at least ten basic types), for most of our clients, the field narrows down to two: drop-in or under-mount sinks.

At one time, drop-in sinks were your only choice. Even after under-mount sinks hit the market, they remained exotic and premium for many years—more challenging to install and costly to purchase. The only challenge nowadays is choosing which one you want installed in your home.

What Are They

Drop-In

Drop-in sinks, the most well-known variety and still the most prevalent, are also known as top-mount or self-rimming sinks. These sinks have a lip around the perimeter resting flat on the counter. The sink drops into the countertop cut-out, and the lip holds it vertically. Metal clips are hidden underneath, clamp the sink to the counter, and keep the sink from moving horizontally.

Under-mount

They are installed from below the counter, so the rim is concealed beneath it.

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More Countertop Space

Select: Undermount

The countertop extends to the sink with under-mount sinks. Undermount is the way to go if you need every square inch of counter real estate.

The drainboard sink is one drop-in sink that could help you utilize more counter space. Typically, one side of the rim extends 8 to 10 inches to form a drainboard (thus the name) or a cutting board in more elaborate versions. This space could be more efficient if you don't have much counter space.

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Easy Cleaning

Select: Drop-In

One of the more frustrating things about under-mount sinks is the top of the sink, which joins up with the counter. There is a gap here, and although it is filled with a bead of silicone caulk, it's not 100% filled. A gap remains, and this gap quickly becomes a magnet for food build-up. We advise removing and replacing the caulk every three to five years.

All working areas of a drop-in are visible and accessible. However, keep in mind the small, visible seam created by the lip and the countertop can build up gunk as well, but it's easier to prevent because it's more accessible.

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Easy Countertop Cleaning

Select: Under-mount

The apparent victor in this category is the under-mount sink. The number one reason most homeowners choose an undermount sink is because of how easy it is to clean them. There is no lip, so that you can move crumbs directly off the counter into the sink.

Drop-in sinks' rims are too high to allow this. Also, the angle formed between the rim and the countertop can build up with gunk.

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The Least Costly

Select: Drop-In

In terms of both supplies and labor, drop-in sinks are more affordable.

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More Countertop Material Choices

Select: Drop-In

Undermount sinks can be installed in all types of countertops, but laminate. The laminate materials are not strong enough to hold fasteners without a bolt, nut, or washer. Drop-in sinks can be installed on all types of countertops.

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Better Resale Value

Select: Undermount

The type of sinks you have will not, on their own, alter the resale value of your home. Resale value is affected more by significant changes in your home, such as additions, whole-house flooring, or finished rooms, than by single factors such as a kitchen sink, bathroom vanity, or paint color.

That said, the under-mount sink can boost the value more to potential buyers than a drop-in.

Some of My Favorite Interior Instagrammers Right Now

Instagram is and probably always will be a platform surrounded by controversy. Some people love it, and some people hate it. I happen to love it. So much of the inspiration I have gotten from Instagram that I have been able to use in the suggestions I’ve given to clients. That is the truth. Any innovation, any new and beautiful decor, I’ve likely seen it on Instagram first. Below, I’ve compiled some of my favorite Instagrammers right now and the pictures they have taken that made me say, “Wow!”

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Emily Henderson (@em_henderson)

✨ NEW REVEAL & NEW IGTV ✨ Who's ready for another round of Makeover Takeover?? 🙋🏼‍♀️ The first MOTO of the year is none other than Design Assistant @velindahellendesign's small space rental kitchen makeover...coming in at JUST 49 square feet. Talk about TEENY TINY. But it's a little kitchen that's definitely still big on style and function. Head to the blog to see which of Velinda's VERY smart SMALL SPACE HACKS you can use for your own space. Link in bio. (Plus head over to my IGTV for 3 tips on how to get the most out of a small kitchen.)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #interiors #interiordesign #kitchen #smallkitchen #rental #apartment #design #styling #interiorstyling

12k Likes, 226 Comments - Emily Henderson (@em_henderson) on Instagram: "✨ NEW REVEAL & NEW IGTV ✨ Who's ready for another round of Makeover Takeover?? 🙋🏼‍♀️ The first MOTO..."

A stylist, author, and blogger, Emily Henderson has cemented herself in the style realm. This photo of a gorgeous kitchen, only 49 square feet, made me stop and look.

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Joanna Gaines (@joannagaines)

Here are pics from last week's #fixerupper... watch an all new episode with us tonight at 9/8c !! @hgtv #magnoliadesignandconstruction

229.5k Likes, 2,642 Comments - Joanna Stevens Gaines (@joannagaines) on Instagram: "Here are pics from last week's #fixerupper... watch an all new episode with us tonight at 9/8c !!..."

Everyone who is at all interested in interior design knows about Joanna Gaines. The TV show “Fixer Upper” that she and her husband, Chip Gaines, hosted together for many years on HGTV is a staple show on that channel. The multi-faceted Texan empire they have built together is impressive, and it’s all because Joanna’s style is timeless. This photo from way back of the jewel-toned cabinets, gold hardware and accents, and chestnut-colored floors made me look a lot closer.

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The Home Edit (@thehomeedit)

You know we love a pantry makeover, and this time I did my own! I used the Rubbermaid BRILLIANCE canister collection along with some of our favorite bins and supplies to achieve the perfect look. Head over to THE blog (thehomeedit.com/blog or tap link in profile) for our step-by-step instructions and photos! ✨ Find these pieces and our other favorite items on THE shop page [thehomeedit.com/shop] under "shop the feed" // or shop via screenshot using the @liketoknow.it app // http://liketk.it/2wVrP ✨ #thehomeedit #Rubbermaid #organization #housegoals #sponsored

8,577 Likes, 206 Comments - THE HOME EDIT ® (@thehomeedit) on Instagram: "You know we love a pantry makeover, and this time I did my own! I used the Rubbermaid BRILLIANCE..."

If you don’t think this is one of the most aesthetically pleasing photos you’ve ever seen, then you need to look again. The Home Edit, a Nashville-based female duo who have swept their magic mess wands over the homes of celebrities around the country, has taken interior design to a whole new level. I shall be curious to peek at their new book!

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Layne Postilion (@endorabohemian)

Let's throw it back to a time that I had a perfectly styled living room. Remember that?!?! 😫😍😢 Right now I'm in the middle of closing the store, and finishing up my chicago clients- which hasn't left too much time to style the new house. Come January, I am gonna teach this little beach house A LESSON- but for now, let's set adrift a memory bliss. 💗🏡💗

858 Likes, 31 Comments - 🦋Layne🦋 (@endorabohemian) on Instagram: "Let's throw it back to a time that I had a perfectly styled living room. Remember that?!?! 😫😍😢..."

Layne was one of the first stylists I was exposed to when I moved to Chicago. Former owner of a store known as The Jones Fix, Layne has since moved to Douglas, Michigan, and will be opening an adorable store, “Endora Bohemian.” Her comfort zone is loud and proud. She excels at bright colors and eclectic art. She is someone I draw inspiration from and will continue to in the future.

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Modsy (@modsydesign)

Those Golden Girls sure have style! What do you think of our 2018 makeover of Blanche's 80s tropical chic bedroom? Tap the link in our bio to shop the look.

956 Likes, 21 Comments - Modsy (@modsydesign) on Instagram: "Those Golden Girls sure have style! What do you think of our 2018 makeover of Blanche's 80s..."

I knew I would love Modsy when I saw they had redone the Golden Girls’ home in Miami. Modsy is one of the most influential interior design tools ever. You snap a few photos, take a few measurements, and in just a couple of days, you have a beautiful room layout delivered to your inbox with all the designs you could desire and done to your taste. Oh, and the prices are great. They are constantly posting their fabulous creations.

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Serena Appiah (@thriftdiving)

This picture of my pretty stenciled makeover never gets old. #thriftdiving #diy #stencil #halfbath #bathroom #bathroomdecor

130 Likes, 5 Comments - Serena Appiah - Thrift Diving (@thriftdiving) on Instagram: "This picture of my pretty stenciled makeover never gets old. #thriftdiving #diy #stencil #halfbath..."

I was first exposed to Serena on YouTube, where she has some fantastic videos of her thrifting adventures. This photo on her Instagram was the first one that made me say, “Okay, so she has some style.” Her practical advice about bargain hunting for furniture when you’re a homeowner is magical, and I hope I can someday furnish my home with some of the tutorials she’s filmed.

What the Fed's Statement Means for Mortgages

The Federal Reserve announced this morning that they will be holding off on raising their interest rates today. This statement has many implications, but we would like to focus on how this will impact house building!

The Federal Reserve’s financial policy body, the Federal Open Market Committee, collectively decided to keep the federal fund’s top rate at 2.5%. Since the beginning of January, the 10-year Treasury rate has slightly recovered to 2.76%, lower than at the start of November. This decline has contributed to decreased mortgage interest rates in the last few weeks. According to Freddie Mac, the average market rate was 4.45% at the end of January.

These changes are more favorable for housing market conditions 2019, which are currently challenged by increasing anxieties over housing affordability and slow growth for home building.

Plan A Killer Island For Your Kitchen

Kitchen islands are where people meet to cook, eat or just chat. You want it to be equipped with everything it needs to fulfill the job you want it to perform. Here are our best tips for designing your dream island:

1. Determine The Function

Consider how your family will utilize a kitchen island. Will you eat dinner there? Will it be used for entertaining with a bar? For example, we recently designed a kitchen island with a wine fridge on one side, and a dishwasher on the other. One of our clients loves to cook and entertain, so we installed the cooktop and sink on her island with a view of the back yard.

2. Pick the Best Materials

When it comes to the countertop, make sure the surface you select is appropriate for the way you use it. Countertops that are used most require the most robust materials. We offer granite countertops as a standard in all of our homes because there are few materials more durable than granite. You can check out some of our standard finishes here.

3. Make It The Centerpiece

For the sake of simple illustration, we will use entertaining to illustrate how to set up a floor plan to highlight your kitchen island. If you are an entertainer, then you know having as much open space as possible is essential. Positioning your island to have the best view is what you ultimately want. It will set up the island as a natural gathering place, and also will enable the host to have the best view of all the goings on during the parties they host. We also like the idea of making it a brighter color or a different color than the rest of the cabinetry to highlight it and serve as a focal point.