How to Perform a Landlord Background Check

You’ve found the perfect new apartment or rental house. You love the neighborhood. Your application has been approved. You’re ready to sign on the dotted line, right? Not so fast. How much do you know about your soon-to-be landlord, property manager or...

5 Expenses Homeowners Pay That Renters Don’t

Homeownership may be a goal for some, but it’s not the right fit for many. Renters account for 37 percent of all households in America – or just over 43.7 million homes, up more than 6.9 million since 2005. Even still, more than half of millennial and...

How to Build Your Own Vertical Garden With Shipping Pallets

Take your green thumb to new heights (and small spaces!) with a vertical garden. This DIY is a great way to integrate a little greenery into any space, including an apartment or small porch. Supplies: Two pallets Tarp Hammer Pry bar Gloves Safety goggles and ear...
7 Qualities of a Good Neighbor

7 Qualities of a Good Neighbor

If you want good neighbors, you’ll first have to become one yourself. Master these seven techniques, and even you (yes, you!) can win the approval of your entire neighborhood. 1. Good neighbors bring cookies Whether you’re new in town or haven’t kept...

5 Ways to Get to Know Your Neighbors

Leaving friends and neighbors behind can be the toughest part of moving to a new home. These five tips will help you make connections and settle into your new community in no time. 1. Knock, knock For an extrovert, walking over to a neighbor’s home to say hello...
How to Replace a Ceiling Fan

How to Replace a Ceiling Fan

Some people love ceiling fans – others don’t care for them. But we can probably all agree that they’re incredibly functional, especially in the heat of summer. If you don’t love the look of your ceiling fan, try updating to a more modern, sleek...

HARP Now Extended Through 2016

Since it first launched in 2009, the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) has helped 3.2 million borrowers across the country lower their monthly payments by refinancing at historically low interest rates. Friday, FHFA Director Melvin...