3 Key DIY Home Renovation Tips

• Decide which projects you’ll DIY, and which you’ll leave to the pros
• Budget for more than you think you’ll need
• Work on one project at a time

Decide which projects you’ll DIY

As a general rule, you’ll want to avoid DIYing projects that require permits (this will vary depending on where you live, so do your research before you start). Similarly, projects involving your electricity, plumbing, and HVAC system are better left to professionals. So, what projects can you DIY?

Demolition

As long as you take proper safety precautions, demolition is a home renovation project you can tackle yourself. Just don’t knock down that load-bearing wall, please. And if your home was built prior to 1979, make sure you test for lead paint and asbestos first.

Paint

A fresh coat of paint is a mainstay of DIY home updates. Choose your colors, cover your furniture and floors, and have fun. And if you don’t feel like taking on your whole home, simply painting your front door with a statement color can boost your curb appeal.

Fixtures and finishes

Swapping out light fixtures, switch plate covers, and cabinet hardware is a simple update that can make a big difference. All you really need to handle this one is the right screwdriver. Since fixtures and finishes are easy to swap out, this is also a good way to incorporate current home decor trends. If you don’t like the look or trends change, updating them again is a simple process.

Drywall (sometimes)

This one really comes down to how much confidence you have in your drywall abilities. Patching up a few holes is a skill every homeowner should have, but large-scale drywall projects are typically not worth the headache of doing yourself. So, if your whole home needs new drywall, call a pro. If it’s a small area, go ahead and DIY (if you want to, of course).

Budget for more than you think you’ll need

An evergreen home renovation tip? Expect the unexpected. That includes your budget, too. While you can save a lot of money by DIYing, you’ll still need to account for the costs of materials and tools in your budget—with wiggle room for any do-overs you may need. Luckily, your mortgage could actually help you finance those home projects. With a cash-out refinance, you can leverage your home equity for cash and use those funds to cover your renovation expenses.*

*Using your home equity to pay off debts or make other purchases does not eliminate the debt or the cost of the purchases, but rather increases the loan amount of your mortgage to be paid according to your new mortgage terms.

Work on one project at a time

Ready to practice mindfulness? One of the best DIY home renovation tips we can offer is to be patient. Tackle one project at a time so that if life happens and you need to pause, your whole home won’t be in disarray. Starting with just one project is also a good way to gauge if DIY is the right choice for you. Sometimes, the work just isn’t worth it and you may decide that professional renovations are a better fit going forward. No judgment here.

If you do opt out of DIY renovations, you may be able to use a renovation loan to roll your mortgage and project costs into one. This can help streamline the process, ensure your contractor is reliable, and lower your up-front renovation expenses.

Bonus DIY home renovation tips

Don’t hit the ground running with your home improvement ideas just yet. Before you go, here are a few bonus DIY home renovation tips to keep in mind.

• Stay flexible. Timelines, budgets, and visions may have to change as you go, so don’t stress if everything doesn’t go exactly to your original plan.
• Collect plenty of inspiration. Having a visual aid to guide your work usually results in a better finished product than freestyling it.
• Ask for help. DIY doesn’t have to mean actually doing everything yourself. Ask for your friends’ opinions on design options, host a house painting party, and make the most of your community resources.

Our top DIY home renovation tip? Understand which projects should actually be DIYed, and which are better left to professionals.

The post DIY Renovation Tips: What Should You Actually DIY? appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

What young home buyers want: 7 must-have home features

• Outdoor space
• Smart home features
• Home offices
• Stylish bathrooms
• Convenient storage
• Closed floor plans
• Eco-friendly design

1. Outdoor space

Raise your hand if you were living in an apartment during the 2020 Covid lockdowns. Anyone who experienced that knows having access to your own outdoor space is no longer something to risk going without. That doesn’t mean you need to spend thousands of dollars turning your backyard into a botanical garden, though. A fence around the yard for privacy or even a home location that offers easy access to local parks and trails is enough to fit what most young home buyers want.

2. Smart home features

Like it or not, technology is here to stay. Gen Z especially has grown up with technology as an essential part of life, so it’s only natural that their homes should reflect that. Some of the more popular smart home features for young buyers include thermostats, doorbells, and security systems.

3. Home offices

If there’s one thing Gen Z is going to do, it’s disrupt tradition—and the workplace is no exception. The old model of sitting in an office from 9 to 5 has lost its appeal for most young home buyers. With more and more Gen Z employees earning their income from home, a designated space to take care of business is a must if you’re selling to this generation.

4. Stylish bathrooms

Nobody wants to film a get-ready-with-me video in a boring bathroom. And on a more serious note, an outdated bathroom means a lot of money spent on renovations. While Gen Z actually tends to prefer more retro, classic home styles than the modern trends Millennials embraced, that doesn’t extend to the plumbing.

5. Storage space

Sorry, storage unit industry, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a young home buyer who considers remote storage a viable option. For one thing, why pay for storage that isn’t easily accessible? Your home is where your life is, so your stuff should be there, too. If there’s not enough storage space, Gen Z is likely to ditch belongings for the move. For a generation who typically makes more intentional purchases, that’s a big turn-off in a potential home.

6. Closed floor plans

Good news! There’s no need to knock down walls before you sell your home. Open floor plans had their moment, but what young home buyers want now are more traditional layouts. Whether it’s with friends, partners, or roommates, in the current housing market Gen Z isn’t likely to buy a home by themselves. With multiple occupants, the privacy and personalization that closed floor plans offer are a must.

7. Eco-friendly design

Gen Z cares deeply about the environment, so it’s no surprise that homes with eco-friendly features are a priority for them. While some factors (like your city’s recycling program) may be out of your control, there are still a few ways you can make your home greener—solar panels, LED lights, and water-conserving appliances to name a few.

The simplest way to make sure your home is energy efficient, though, is to keep up with repairs and maintenance. Proper insulation, clean HVAC systems, and correctly-fitted windows and doors all help minimize energy consumption and utility bills.

What young home buyers want: Bonus tips

Before you take this list of home features and run with it, it’s important to understand not just what Gen Z looks for in a home, but how they look for it. If you want to sell to Gen Z, you need to meet them where they are: Online. We’re not saying you have to become an influencer, but your home’s digital presence matters. Your listing should be verified on trusted sites, have high-quality photos, and provide enough detail that potential buyers don’t have to call you for more information. It’s also a good idea to work with a real estate agent who knows how to market your home on social media.

At the end of the day, don’t overthink what young home buyers want. They’re a different generation, not a different species. If you can provide a safe space to call home, you’re well on your way to a successful home sale with any buyer.

If you want to sell to Gen Z home buyers, you need to meet them where they are: Online.

The post What Young Home Buyers Want: 7 Must-Have Home Features appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

If you’re in the market for a new policy, we’ve got a few tips to help you find the right provider.

To start, let’s talk about what “homeowners insurance” really is. There are a lot of ways to cover your home purchase, including homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and a home warranty. They’re all different things. Mortgage insurance protects the lender in case you default on your loan, and a home warranty is a separate piece of coverage that protects your home’s internal systems (HVAC, plumbing, appliances, etc.).

Homeowners insurance, however, is a policy that pays for damage to or the destruction of your actual property, the things inside your home, and the people around it. Generally speaking, lenders will require proof that you have homeowners insurance before you reach the closing table. 

Homeowners insurance is a policy that pays for damage to or the destruction of your actual property, the things inside your home, and the people around it.

That said, homeowners insurance policies aren’t magic “cover-all” options. While they do cover many things, there are several things they won’t cover. We’re here to help you figure out how to choose the right homeowners insurance policy, and we’ll even throw in a few tips on how to save some cash along the way.

“What should my policy cover?”

At the very least, your homeowners insurance policy should cover the “full or fair value” of the home, or the purchase price. Some providers choose one amount, others opt for the latter. Either way, that’s what we call your “dwelling coverage,” or the part of your policy that covers the repairs to or reconstruction of a home that’s been physically damaged by a covered event. Note: “hazard” and “peril” are two other terms you’ll see through your search, but they both mean similar things.

Homeowners insurance policies cover damage or destruction to a home’s interior and exterior, but they also cover theft, personal liability (in case someone gets hurt on your property or worse), and personal property. We recommend getting dwelling coverage that covers the cost to rebuild your home, including labor and materials at their current rates—not just the purchase price or previous assessed value.

Just so you know, there are some things a homeowners insurance policy will not cover. Natural disasters, or “acts of God,” typically aren’t covered by your standard policy. Lightning strikes your home, for example, and zaps your dated breaker panel without additional coverage, and you may have to pay for that fix out of pocket. In some cases, for people living in areas prone to floods, earthquakes, and tornadoes, policies may be expanded at an additional cost.

“How is my rate determined?”

There are many things that go into your rate calculation, much of which is done behind the scenes. Usually, policy rates are determined by your “assessed risk,” which considers your personal claim history, your credit record, the home’s previous claims (if there are any), the home itself (construction, materials, security, etc.), and the surrounding neighborhood (including crime rates). 

“How can I lower my rate?”

Some of the factors that go into your rate calculation are admittedly out of your control. For example, you found your dream home, but it’s in a flood zone. In that case, there’s not much you can do about that other than pay for flood coverage. 

However, there are several other ways you can lower your insurance premium.

Shop around

At the very least, as with anything, you should look at three different policy quotes from three different providers. Some sources say you should gather as many as five quotes, but if you’re seeing similar numbers for equal coverage across the board, go with your gut. Remember: don’t just choose the least-expensive option. Consider other things like company reviews, technology capabilities (can you file a claim from your phone?), and whether or not you’re already a customer with that provider.

Pro-tip: Depending on how many quotes you get, try to call one or two local providers. Sometimes smaller providers can provide better pricing.

Bundle up

Speaking of already being a customer…did you know that many providers offer discounts for bundling your coverage? If you have auto insurance with one company, you may be eligible for a multi-policy discount if you get homeowners insurance with them as well.

Security systems

Investing in a home security system can also help lower your premium, because it tells providers that your home has an added layer of protection beyond locked doors and windows. Security goes beyond cameras, too—upgrading your smoke detectors could bring benefits as well.

Home improvements

Some companies may offer additional discounts for upgrades to your home, like metal construction instead of wood (due to flammability), modern or eco-friendly HVAC and electrical upgrades, and an impact-resistant roof to help protect against Mother Nature.

Increased deductible

While less popular, another way to lower your premium is to increase your deductible. Unfortunately, that means you’d pay more out of pocket if and when you file a claim. It removes risk on the provider’s part, forcing you to carry the expense instead. Note: some lenders may have a maximum to the deductible they allow, such as 5% of the insurance coverage. 

How do I choose a provider?

That’s the easy part: research! You’ve already started the journey by reading this blog, so take everything you’ve learned here with you when you start calling around to different providers. When you’re ready to apply for a mortgage, we’ll be waiting for you.

Homeowners insurance isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” In fact, for most lenders, it’s a required investment.

The post How to Choose Homeowners Insurance (And Lower Your Rate) appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

#1. Interest Rate 

Let’s cover one of the basics first. An interest rate is fundamental to all forms of lending. In its simplest form, interest is what you pay a lender to borrow money on top of your principal, or the original amount you borrow. While you’ll always pay back more than what you borrowed, a lower interest rate means you’ll pay back less “extra.”

A lot of things go into determining your specific interest rate, including the amount you’re borrowing, your down payment, your credit score and history, and the length (or term) of your loan. Oh, and market conditions. Market conditions can affect the environment around you—including whether or not you’re in a buyer’s or a seller’s market.

#2. Buyer’s/Seller’s Market

When you’re ready to buy a home, your real estate agent may tell you it’s either a “buyer’s market” or a “seller’s market.” The former, a buyer’s market, is better for you, the borrower, because it generally means there are more available homes than buyers, which means less competition and lower prices. The latter, a seller’s market, is more competitive—often leading to bidding wars and greater potential for losing out on the home you’ve had your eyes on due to increased competition.

In a seller’s market, where homeowners are looking for top dollar from buyers, it’s important to have a bona fide pre-approval from your lender. If you’re interested in knowing what you can afford to offer before you start your house hunt, get your free rate quote here. 

#3. Buydown

A buydown is related to both your interest rate and the market you find yourself in, and it allows borrowers to use cash to temporarily lower their interest rate for a set amount of time—usually one, two, or three years. For example, a 3-2-1 Buydown might allow you to lower your original rate by 3% during your first year of homeownership, 2% during your second, and 1% your third before going back to your initial interest rate.

How are buydowns paid for? There are different methods, but one of the most common is the application of seller or builder credits, issued at closing. So, for example, if your seller offers a $15,000 closing credit, you may be able to apply that cash to the purchase of a temporary buydown. In a high-rate environment or a buyer’s market, where sellers are under a little more pressure to sell, this option could save you thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your home loan.

#4. Closing Costs 

Speaking of closing credits, let’s go over closing costs. Closing costs typically include all of the different fees you’ll pay in addition to the price of your new home, like appraisal, attorney, escrow, and title fees, as well as credit report costs. More often than not, you’ll pay for those with one check at the end of your purchasing process (and they may be included in the same check you write for your down payment). 

A good lender can help you plan for those fees ahead of time to ensure you have the cash set aside when the time comes to spend it.

#5. Equity 

Equity is the overall value of your home, minus your remaining mortgage balance. Like interest rates, your home’s value may fluctuate over time with market conditions, but as long as you owe less than what the property is worth, you’ll have equity. 

Like interest rates, your home’s value may fluctuate over time with market conditions, but as long as you owe less than what the property is worth, you’ll have equity.

For example, if your home is worth $400,000 and your mortgage balance is $300,000, you’d have $100,000 in equity. You can increase your home’s value and subsequent equity by paying down the balance, or by remodeling or renovating the property. 

Did you know that a mid-range kitchen remodel has a return on investment of almost 60%? According to Zillow, a $64,000 remodel can add almost $38,000 of value to your home. 

For additional ideas, check out another of one of our recent blogs, The Renovating a House Checklist You Absolutely Can’t Skip.

#6. Loan-to-Value (LTV) 

LTV, or loan-to-value, is a ratio used to describe the overall size of your loan versus the value of the home you’re buying. It will always be expressed as a percentage and comes from dividing the loan size by the home’s value. LTV is critical in determining your loan options, borrowing power, down payment, and whether or not you’ll need to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI).

Some home loans will require an LTV of 97.5%, which means you’ll need to put down just 3.5%. Other home loans require an LTV of 95% or less, which will require a higher down payment. Remember this general rule of thumb: The higher your down payment, the lower your LTV. 

Remember this general rule of thumb: The higher your down payment, the lower your LTV. 

#7. Debt-to-Income (DTI) 

DTI, or the debt-to-income ratio, is the percentage of your gross monthly income that’s used to pay monthly debts, and it helps lenders determine how much of a risk you are. Borrowers with a low DTI are generally seen as better with money management, and therefore less risky. The exact formula for calculating front-end DTI is:

DTI = (Expenses ​/ Gross Monthly Income) x 100

DTI is often split into two forms: Front-end and back-end. 

• Front-end DTI compares the cost of your living expenses (i.e. rent or mortgage) to your gross monthly income.
  • If your mortgage payment is $1,500 and your gross monthly income is $6,000, your front-end DTI would be 25%. 

• Back-end DTI includes other financial obligations, like credit card payments, student loans, car payments, child support, alimony, and more.
  • If your monthly debts amount to $825 and your gross monthly income is $4,750, your back-end DTI would be 17%. 

So what’s a “good” debt-to-income ratio? We cover that in depth in this blog, but a lower DTI is always better. Different mortgages have different debt-to-income requirements, and lenders may have additional requirements beyond that to help mitigate risk. 

#8. Funding Fees

Funding fees, like closing costs, are fees that borrowers pay to fund the loan and protect lenders from loss. Government loans like VA and FHA loans have funding fees, but those may be waived depending on individual loan circumstances. Your loan originator can help you find out if waivers are available for your specific loan type.

#9. Loan Originator

Speaking of loan originators, these professionals are different from mortgage brokers, because they’re representatives of the financial institution that’s helping buyers with the mortgage application process. A mortgage broker, on the other hand, is a licensed professional who works on your behalf to secure financing. 

Basically, a loan originator works for a lender and a broker is an independent agent. 

#10. Underwriting 

Once your application is complete and submitted (but before you get keys at the closing table), you’ll go through underwriting. Underwriting is the process lenders use to assess an applicant’s income, assets, credit, and risk. 

During this process, lenders comb through your personal information and financial records to determine whether or not you qualify for a loan. They’ll determine your LTV, your DTI, your interest rate, and your closing costs, so it’s important to get your affairs in order well ahead of time to ensure the process isn’t held up. 

Did these mortgage definitions help you better understand the mortgage process? Is there anything else we can clarify for you? Let us know on social media, check out our full glossary, or get in touch with one of our experts for more information. We’re always here to help!

The post Home Buying, Defined: 10 Mortgage Definitions You Need to Know appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

Your out of state move checklist

• Assess your finances and set a budget
• Compare costs of living to narrow down locations
• Explore potential homes virtually
• Find a great local real estate agent
• Visit the new area and view potential homes
• Get pre-approved for financing from the lender of your choice
• Make an offer
• Start planning your move

1. Assess your finances and set a budget

When you’re moving out of state, your costs won’t just include buying a new house. You’ll also need to budget for things like movers, storage, gas or plane tickets, and accommodations for the period between moving out of your current home and into your new one. As for your new house, don’t forget to include closing costs and appraisal fees in your mortgage budget.

Pro Tip: We may not be able to help you calculate your unique moving expenses, but we can help you calculate how much home you can afford. Take our affordability calculator for a spin to see what’s possible.

2. Compare costs of living

It’s no secret that the cost of living has been on the rise lately. That being said, cost of living does vary by state, city, and even neighborhood. So, once you have your budget, it’s time to use that to narrow down your target location. Cost isn’t everything, of course. When deciding where to house shop, don’t forget to prioritize what matters most to you. That could be school districts, proximity to work, walkability, and anything else you need to be able to put down roots.

3. Explore potential homes virtually

So, you’ve decided on an area. Now, it’s time to explore homes. Even though this step is a challenge with out of state moves, virtual tours have come a long way since Covid. In addition to listing photos, many homes may also provide video tours, FaceTime tours, and more ways to see the space without booking a flight.

4. Find a great local real estate agent

This one is important. Since you’ll be conducting most of your house search from across state lines, having a real estate agent on your team who knows the local area is key to finding great homes in areas you’ll love. A good agent should have:

• In-depth knowledge of the local area
• A track record of closing quickly, for less than the asking price
• Clear communication expectations
• Strong negotiation skills

5. Visit the new area and view potential homes

Whether it’s time, budget, or any number of other obstacles, this step might not be possible for everyone buying a home out of state. But, if you can swing it, it’s always best to see a home in person before you make an offer. To make the most out of your trip, wait until you have specific houses in mind to tour with your real estate agent (and make sure those showings are scheduled ahead of time). You should also use this opportunity to explore the local area and get a feel for the specific neighborhoods you’re considering living in.

6. Get pre-approved for financing from the lender of your choice

So, you’ve got a home in mind. Now it’s time to choose a mortgage lender. If you want to use a lender you’ve already worked with before, great! Just make sure they’re licensed to operate in the state you’re moving to. Especially in a seller’s market, pre-approval is a must-have if you want to bid competitively. Most pre-approval letters are good for up to 60 days, so don’t take this step until you’ve chosen a home and are ready to make an offer.

Especially in a seller’s market, pre-approval is a must-have if you want to bid competitively.

7. Make an offer

Ready to take the plunge? Once you’re pre-approved, your real estate agent can help you make an offer on your home. Just a heads up: You may find yourself in a bidding war with other buyers. To ease the stress and reduce the chances of your offer getting rejected, try these strategies:

• Get pre-approved
• Lower contingencies
• Include an escalation clause
• Stay flexible
• Don’t give up if your first offer isn’t accepted

8. Start planning your move

We could fill a whole separate blog with moving tips, but here’s the general breakdown.

8 weeks before you move

• Take inventory of your stuff. What are you keeping? What are you donating? What needs to be thrown out?
• Arrange moving transportation. For long-distance moves, you’ll likely also need to consider storage for your belongings if they arrive before you do.
• Transfer school and vet records if needed.

6 weeks before you move

• Buy packing supplies (more than you think you’ll need).
• Remember that casserole that’s been sitting in your freezer? Time to use it or lose it.
• Measure your new space to make sure your furniture will fit. No sense lugging a dresser across state lines only to find that it won’t fit through your new doors.

4 weeks before you move

• Packing time! Don’t forget to set aside items that you’ll need to keep with you throughout the move, as anything you pack may be in storage until you can settle into your new home.
• Disassemble furniture you’re not using. Your movers will likely do this anyway, but probably with less care.
• Label your boxes. Your future self will thank you when it’s time to unpack.
• Change your address and update your billing information once USPS has processed your request.

2 weeks before you move

• Submit your workplace PTO requests for moving week if needed.
• Prep your vehicle for the trip.
• Confirm moving day details with your mover.

Week of your move

• Refill prescriptions if you have them.
• If you have pets, update the address associated with their microchips.
• Get cash to tip your movers.

Bonus tips on how to buy a house out of state

Our final advice for how to buy a house out of state? It’s never too early to start planning. An out of state move may not be in your immediate future. But, if it’s something you’re interested in doing down the line, make sure you’re ready when the time comes. Start saving for your move, plan trips to cities you may want to live in, and don’t forget to have fun.

With a little extra research and the right real estate agent, it’s easier to buy a house out of state than you might think.

The post How to Buy a House Out of State in 8 Steps appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

Before you back out of home buying, consider this: it’s still very possible to purchase if you’re saddled with student loans.

Can you buy a home with student loans?

No, you cannot buy a home with student loans (ha), but you can buy a home even if you’ve got student loan debt. The home buying process may be more challenging and might take some additional planning, but it could also be a super smart move for “adulting.”

When it comes to applying for a mortgage, lenders consider three things:

1. Your debt-to-income ratio, or your income compared to your debt load.
2. Your credit history, including your credit score, payment history, and number of accounts.
3. Your down payment amount, or how much cash you can dedicate to the mortgage right now.

Student loans have an impact on all three, but not all effects are negative. In fact, some are actually positive, so let’s take a closer look at each.

Your student loans and your home loan payment

One of the first things a lender will look at is how your monthly income compares to your monthly debts. This is called your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI. Your DTI shows the lender what percent of your pre-tax income is spent on debt payments. Shocker: student loan payments factor into that equation, as do car payments, credit card payments, and other regular loan payments. 

Pro-tip: Federal student loan payments are currently paused until June 30, 2023, pending litigation regarding the administration’s implementation of the student loan forgiveness program. That said, although you may not have to repay those loans right now, lenders will still likely use 1% of your student loan balance when determining your DTI.

Many mortgage lenders look for a DTI that’s 40% or lower, and that figure includes your future mortgage payment. That means, once you have a home loan in hand, you’ll need to spend 40% or less of your income to repay debt. This will be your basic benchmark when figuring out how much you might be able to afford, but it’s not a hard cut-off point. Some loan types may allow for a higher DTI, but it’s recommended you stay under it if at all possible. 

Crunch the numbers

Okay, let’s say you earn $4,000 per month. 40% of your monthly income is $1,600. That means your total debt payments shouldn’t exceed $1,600. If you spend $200 on your student loans, $200 on your car payment, and $100 on your credit card, you could have about $1,100 leftover for a mortgage payment. 

• Maximum debt calculation (for most lenders): 4000 X 0.4 = 1600
• Remaining debt budget for home loan: 1600 – 200 – 200 – 100 = 1100

Alternatively, you could multiply your monthly income by 0.4 and subtract your monthly student loan payments, car payments, credit card payments, etc. Whatever’s left can provide a reasonable estimate of your future maximum mortgage payment—or PITI, which stands for “principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.”

• How to estimate your maximum mortgage payment: Your gross monthly income X 0.4 – debts paid monthly = estimated budget for monthly mortgage payments.
• Want to run the numbers on easy mode? Check out our affordability calculator to compare different price points with your DTI.

Repaying your student loans may mean you have less to spend on a mortgage payment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have your home and pay it, too. Working with the right lender can help you find a loan that fits your budget and the lifestyle you want to live.

Repaying your student loans may mean you have less to spend on a mortgage payment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have your home and pay it, too.

What about your credit?

If you’ve determined that your student loan payments aren’t going to be a detriment to your DTI, it’s time to think about your credit. Not just your score, but your holistic report as well.

Student loans, when paid on time, reflect positive credit history. They can actually help improve your credit over time, because they’re long-term accounts that lengthen your credit age. An older credit age is another positive element, and when used appropriately, having credit cards, student loans, and a car payment can help diversify your credit mix. Diverse credit types reflect the ability to handle different types and amounts of debt. 

That said, it’s important to remember that loans are only good if you pay them on time each month. That may not be possible for everyone, but it shouldn’t be a cause for concern. There are debt relief programs you can take advantage of, and credit can change over time. If your credit report is keeping you from buying now, use this time as an opportunity to save and rebuild.  

What if I haven’t saved much for the down payment? 

Okay, okay. Your DTI and credit scores could be just fine. But how on earth are you going to save up for a down payment with those student loans nagging at your finances every month? Of course, the more money you have for your down payment, the less you’ll need to take out on your mortgage. But the notion that you need to have 20% down to buy a house isn’t always the case. In fact, you only need about 3-3.5% down for most mortgages. And if you qualify for a USDA or VA home loan, you can get a mortgage with a 0% down payment.

However, it should be noted that lower down payments come with strings. Not for control, but for security. Private mortgage insurance or a mortgage insurance premium are two common terms that come up with loans that require lower down payments.

If you qualify, you may be eligible for a first-time buyer grant, which can help cover down payments or closing costs…or both! 

Student loans and home equity

So, do student loans impact your ability to buy a house? Absolutely, but homeownership can still be an attainable goal. 

Whether you rent or own, you’re going to have housing costs either way. Those payments could go toward your home’s equity to help you build wealth over time, or they can go toward paying someone else’s mortgage. 

And hey, college grad…homeowner…wealth-builder. Sounds like a pretty sweet life, huh?

The post Do Student Loans Affect Buying a House? appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

How to babyproof your home

• Wrap up renovations
• Store cleaning supplies out of reach
• Screw unstable furniture to the wall
• Cover outlets and cords
• Invest in knob covers for your stove
• Place corner guards on furniture
• Place non-slip pads under rugs
• Latch drawers and cabinets

1. Wrap up renovations

Welcoming a new addition into your family is a seriously busy period of life, so make sure you’ve wrapped up any home reno projects that you’ve been putting off beforehand. It’s not just a matter of time management—peeling paint, uneven floors, and more common fixer-upper problems could all be hazardous for children.

2. Store cleaning supplies out of reach

Raise your hand if the cabinet under the kitchen sink is your go-to cleaning supply storage space. We get it, but it’s not the safest location when you have toddlers on the move. We recommend choosing cabinets that are both higher off the ground and completely closable (open shelving might be in, but not in this babyproof house). This goes for any items that could be hazardous if your baby is exposed to them, from laundry supplies to medicine to toiletries.

3. Screw unstable furniture to the wall

Your little one will be learning to stand by pulling themselves up with furniture, so you need to make sure that furniture is stable. That means actually screwing that tall bookshelf into the wall at the top like the instruction manual told you to. If you’ve got chairs or other furniture with wheels, make sure the wheels lock if you’re unable to take them off entirely.

4. Cover outlets and cords

No babyproofing checklist would be complete without covering your electrical outlets. Outlet covers are fairly easy and inexpensive to find—just make sure you don’t forget any outlets tucked away out of sight. You’ll also want to store cords for chargers, appliances, and other devices out of reach from curious hands (and teeth).

5. Invest in knob covers for your stove

The last thing you want is for your baby to turn your stovetop burners on by accident. Or on purpose, for that matter. Stove knob covers may be a bit more challenging to find than outlet covers, but the peace of mind you get as a result will be well worth the extra effort.

6. Place corner guards on furniture

Falling is an inevitable part of learning to walk. So, it’s a good idea to cover any sharp edges with corner guards as part of your babyproofing process. Even if your baby isn’t at the mobile stage yet, you may want to consider corner guards for furniture near the changing table, crib, and anywhere else you’ll be frequently picking up and putting them down. To be clear, we think you’re going to be amazing as a parent and will absolutely not drop your baby. But, sometimes the best sleep comes from knowing you’ve prepared for the worst.

7. Place non-slip pads under rugs

From toddlers swaying unsteadily as they find their, well, legs in general to late-night rocking and pacing to coax the semblance of a regular sleep schedule, there are a lot of reasons you’ll want non-slip pads under your rugs. Tripping hazards are no joke when you’ve got a baby in your arms. And on a less serious note, it keeps your rugs looking neater. That’s one less thing to worry about on the adventure of parenting.

8. Latch drawers and cabinets

In an ideal world, we would store everything that posed a threat to babies out of their reach. But you only have so many cabinets, and the list of things that could potentially be problematic if a little one got their hands on it is essentially infinite. Props to toddlers for their ability to see the potential in objects beyond their intended purpose—never change! But for the sake of your sanity, we’d recommend installing latches on cabinets and drawers that are within tiny arm’s reach.

Is there anything else I should add to my babyproofing checklist?

You’ve probably noticed by now that a lot of people have a lot of thoughts about how you should raise your kid. While there are some good universal safety measures as we just went over, ultimately it’s your decision when it comes to how to babyproof your home. Your babyproofing checklist might look very different from ours, and that’s ok! If you tried to do everything everyone recommended, you’d go crazy. Do what you feel comfortable with and capable of, and the rest will come naturally. You’ve got this.

Babyproofing can feel overwhelming, but a good babyproofing checklist helps take some of the stress out of it.

The post The Essential 8-Step Home Babyproofing Checklist appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

Even though the ink has dried on your closing documents and the dust has settled from the moving trucks, you might feel that there is still one final step to becoming a homeowner. Cue the housewarming party.

Hosting your friends and family in your brand-new space can help make your house feel like a home. Best of all? It doesn’t have to be stressful. The moving process is hectic enough, so let your housewarming party be whatever you want it to be. Not sure how to get started on planning a Gatsby-level soiree or an intimate gathering? Here are eight foolproof tips for throwing an epic housewarming party that’ll have your friends and neighbors asking, “When can we come back?”

Patience is a virtue

You know it’s coming. As soon as you tell your friends and family about your new house on social media, someone is undoubtedly going to ask about the housewarming party. The trick here is to not act as soon as possible. Give yourself some time to enjoy your home on your own before you invite everyone over. It’s YOUR space! Wait until you’re all moved in and your place is in reasonable shape before you start planning.

Between hanging the curtains and implementing measures to reduce traffic noise in your new backyard to create the perfect party oasis, it could take weeks, or even months, before you feel comfortable enough to have people over. Operate on your time, not anyone else’s.

Give a heads up

Once you feel like your house is ready to be “warmed,” it’s time to start planning. Housewarming parties are typically more intimate gatherings with close friends and family, so don’t feel pressure to tell the world about it. Send some emails, or better yet, create a Facebook group so you can keep track of who you’re inviting and who all is coming for space, food, and drink purposes.

It’s also a good idea to let your neighbors know what’s happening, especially if your homes are in close proximity to each other. You could even extend an invitation to them if you’re comfortable with it. The more (gifts and food), the merrier!

Theme-work makes the dream work

If you want to go the extra mile and make sure your party is a true success, you can’t go wrong with adding a theme to the mix. So, what are some good theme ideas? If you’re planning a fall housewarming party, it’s only natural that you go with a Halloween or Friendsgiving theme. Waiting for the winter? Secret Santa or other gift exchange parties are always solid choices. You could play into an “Around the World” theme and tell your friends to bring dishes from different countries, which provides a fun theme and food for you and your guests.

Any theme that you think your guests will enjoy, and won’t cost an arm and a leg to decorate for, is probably a good idea. Start brainstorming! And remember to have fun with it.

Have a seat

Have you ever been to a party where there aren’t enough places to sit? No fun, right? Don’t let that be your party, especially if you’re planning activities where you want everyone to participate. Nobody wants to be the person standing on the outside edge of the circle where everyone is sitting. The sofa is prime real estate, yes, but having some bar stools, floor pillows, or foldable chairs on hand can save your guests some awkwardness (and joint pain).

Want to take seating a step further? Deck out your deck (if you have one), with comfortable lounge furniture. That way, you can all enjoy the weather and take in the neighborhood just as much as your new home.

There will be refreshments

We spoke previously about the possibility of a housewarming potluck, but if that’s not your thing, it’s still a good idea to at least provide some snacks and drinks for your guests. There’s no need to prepare a royal feast here. You can just order some pizza or other finger foods that can be kept at room temperature. Fruit, cheese platters, and baked goods also work well.

As for beverages, you might consider serving a signature cocktail or “mocktail” to help yourself from having to purchase too much variety at your expensive. You can also let your guests know that they can bring any additional alcoholic drinks they’d like, such as wine and beer.

Welcome to my crib

As much as we’re sure your friends love you, you’re not the only reason they showed up to the party. They’ll likely want to check out your new place. So this is where you show off your best MTV Cribs audition and give your guests what they’ve been waiting for: the grand tour.

Pro tip: You’ll probably want to wait until all or most of your guests have arrived to prevent giving multiple tours. But if you’re in the zone and feeling extra tour guide-y, why not?

Let the games begin

There are plenty of ways to entertain guests at a housewarming party, but having a central game or activity is probably your best bet for full engagement. You’ll want to pick games that include everyone, and it’s a plus if you can relate it to your theme or your house.

Think Home Scavenger Hunt or Grand Tour Memory. But there’s nothing wrong with just playing some good old-fashioned party games like Pictionary, Uno, or Two Truths and a Lie. You know your friends better than we do, so whatever you feel is your best for keeping them entertained will work just fine.

Relax

Housewarming parties should be low-pressure. Essentially, you’re inviting a group of people who like and care about you over to hang out and explore your new digs. It doesn’t have to be anything more than that. Sure you’ll want to put your best foot forward and make sure your guests have a good time, but if you prepare accordingly, that will take care of itself.

So, our last bit of advice to you is to just relax and enjoy your own party. If the host is having fun, there’s a great chance everyone else is too.

Give yourself some time to enjoy your home on your own before you invite everyone over. It’s YOUR space! Wait until you’re all moved in and your place is in reasonable shape before you start planning.

The post How to Throw an Epic Housewarming Party appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

Pro Tip: Do your guest room plans include renovations? An FHA 203(k) loan could help you finance them.

How to make your guest room cozy in 7 steps

• Boost your bedding
• Let there be (bedside) light
• Dress the windows
• Provide plenty of storage space
• Supply comfortable seating
• Lay out the necessities
• Don’t forget the flowers

1. Boost your bedding

Your guests can only be so cozy without a good night’s sleep. When setting up your guest bedroom, splurge on higher-quality bedding. Think plush pillows, fluffy comforters, and crisp sheets. You can even provide extra blankets and pillows so your guests can adjust the bedding to their preferences.

Pro Tip: If you’re freshening up the bedding in the laundry before making the bed, consider using scent-free detergent to avoid irritating any potential allergies your guests may have.

2. Let there be (bedside) light

Ever tried to find your way back to bed in the dark in an unfamiliar room? It’s decidedly not cozy. Whether your guests enjoy winding down with a book at night or just don’t want to trip over their suitcase at lights out, bedside lighting is a must for a welcoming atmosphere.

3. Dress the windows

From offering additional privacy to providing welcome winter insulation, window dressings are an important part of making a guest room cozy. Opt for a fabric that still lets in some natural light to keep the room from getting too dark and musty, especially as daylight becomes limited during the winter.

Pro Tip: Looking for window dressing inspo? Check out more ideas here.

4. Provide plenty of storage space

It’s hard to settle in when you’re living out of a suitcase. Closet and drawer space is always a smart addition to any guest room, but even just an uncluttered corner of the room to store luggage is an easy way to help your guests feel at home.

5. Supply comfortable seating

What says “home” more than a designated chair to throw your laundry on? When it comes to cozy guest room ideas, a comfortable chair or bench is a must. Bonus points if your setup includes a table and lamp for reading, enjoying that first cup of coffee in the morning, or just savoring some quiet time between holiday socializing.

6. Lay out the necessities

Make it easy for your guests to find everything they need to make themselves at home. Put out towels and washcloths, don’t hide outlets behind furniture, and include your WI-FI information in a prominent location, like on the bedside table or a desk. And if you’re really in the hosting spirit, a water carafe by the bed could save your guests a 3 AM trip to the kitchen.

Pro Tip: A designated laundry hamper for used towels and linens will make your post-visit cleanup easier, along with clearing up the all-too-familiar “Where do I put this towel when I’m done with it?” dilemma for your guests.

7. Don’t forget the flowers

So, winter may not be the best time for fresh flowers. That doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate some elements of biophilic design into your guest room decor! From faux plants and dried flowers to seasonal stems like juniper and cypress, bringing the outside in can help reduce stress and anxiety (who couldn’t use some help with that over the holidays?), add dimension to the space, and generally make your guests’ accommodations feel less temporary.

Got any other cozy guest room ideas?

If you’re not sure how to make a guest room cozy, just ask yourself who will be staying in it. Are they bringing pets with them? Consider including some pet-friendly features like a water bowl or an out-of-the-way location for a litter box. For parents traveling with small children who will be sharing the space, a room away from the main areas of the home could help reduce the chances of disrupted sleep schedules.

Accessibility is also important to consider. Your budget may not include a full ADA overhaul of your home, but there are plenty of simple adjustments that can make your guests more comfortable.

• If your home has multiple floors, set up the guest room on the ground floor
• When selecting a bed for the room, make sure it’s not too high (or low) off the ground
• If possible, set up the guest room with easy access to a bathroom
• Consider installing grab bars in the shower
• Remove rugs from the guest room as these can be difficult to navigate with mobility aids
• Leave open spaces at tables and other seating areas

If all this seems like a lot, don’t get overwhelmed by the guest room possibilities. At the end of the day, all your guests really need from you is a willingness to host. Whatever you can comfortably manage on your schedule and budget will be enough. Happy holidays!

Hosting for the holidays? Try these seven tips to make your guest room cozy for winter and beyond.

The post How to Make a Guest Room Cozy for the Winter appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

9 ways to winterize your second home

• Turn off the water
• Keep the heat above freezing
• Unplug electrical devices
• Empty the fridge
• Prevent pests
• Wash towels and bedding
• Cover your plants
• Store your valuables
• Leave a light on

1. Turn off the water

Make sure the water is turned off completely at the main supply point to prevent busted pipes. Don’t forget to turn off your irrigation system, too, if they’re on separate main supplies. A $500 replacement for a cracked backflow preventer is the last thing you’ll want to come home to. You should also drain anything that holds water, like toilets, pools, fountains, and sinks. If temperatures get extra low in the area, you may also want to pour an antifreeze solution down the drains.

2. Keep the heat above freezing

While you do want to conserve energy while you’re gone, don’t set your thermostat too low. Make sure it’s warm enough to keep the inside of your home above freezing. In general, aim to keep the temperature around at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent mold and mildew that may form from condensation.

3. Unplug electrical devices

If you leave your power on, unplug all your electrical devices (microwaves and TVs included) to prevent fire hazards and save energy. You may want to leave larger appliances, like your washer and dryer, plugged in to decrease the hassle of getting everything set back up when you return.

4. Empty the fridge

It goes without saying that you should throw out any perishables. Especially if you’re going to be unplugging the fridge, it’s best to take everything out, wash both the fridge and freezer thoroughly, and leave the doors open to prevent any mold or mildew growth.

5. Prevent pests

After you take the trash out, wash the trash cans and put away any soaps, sponges, candles, and other possible food sources for vermin. Try not to leave any food items in the home, even staples like pasta and canned goods. Winter is a great time to donate any usable items you clear out to local food drives and shelters.

6. Wash towels and bedding

Linens, bedding, and towels should be washed and stored in plastic containers. Open up the drawers and strip the beds to let the mattresses air out. That’s one less load of laundry waiting for you when you return.

7. Cover your plants

If you have outdoor plants that don’t do well in the cold, cover them up with an old blanket to prevent frost damage or bring them inside. For plants that require more maintenance, consider bringing them home with you or providing a key to a neighbor you trust who can check in and water them occasionally.

8. Store your valuables

Any boats, dirt bikes, canoes, bicycles, cars, etc. should be stored in a garage while you’re gone. If there are any window views into your storage space, cover them. You don’t want people to see into your house and be tempted to take anything.

9. Leave a light on

A certain Christmas movie comes to mind for this one, but you probably don’t need to go to such extreme lengths as that kid left behind for holiday vacation. A single light left on in a central area will do the trick. You can also install timed lights to create the illusion of an occupied home. It’s a good way to add some extra security while you’re gone.

Do I need to winterize my second home if it’s in a warm area?

If your vacation home is in a warm climate (beach house, anyone?), you probably don’t need to do much to prepare it for cold weather. For the sake of security, energy conservation, and keeping your home clean, however, you’ll still want to turn off/unplug any unnecessary devices and lights, throw out any food, and make sure valuable items are stored out of sight. And of course, don’t forget to lock the door.

Before your leave your second home for the winter, don’t forget to turn off the water and gas, empty the fridge, and secure your valuables.

The post How to Winterize Your Second Home appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

5 tips for navigating empty nest syndrome

• Take up a new hobby
• Reconnect with your social circle
• Tackle projects around the house
• Make plans for the future
• Practice self-care

Before we dive deeper into this list, let’s nail down what empty nest syndrome is.

What exactly is empty nest syndrome?

For the past 18 years, you’ve watched your kid grow. This is your baby. Goodbyes are already tough—now combine that with your home feeling emptier and it’s an even stronger emotion.

Psychology Today said it best: “Empty nest syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis, but rather describes a transition period in which many people experience feelings of loneliness or loss. While many parents encourage their children to become independent adults, the experience of sending children off into the world can be a painful one.”

You’ll always be their parent, but that role looks different when they become independent young adults. This means navigating just how involved you should be in their life. How often do you check in with them? Do you wait for them to call you first? How many phone calls and texts is too many? You’ll have to ask yourself these questions and decide what works best for your relationship with your adult children.

While your kid is off becoming a person, this is also a period of learning more about yourself. Believe it or not, you’ve changed a lot since before you became a parent. Remember all those times you complained that you couldn’t get five minutes to yourself? Well, now you’ve got time! What will you do with it? After all that parenting, you may just want to enjoy the chance to do nothing. We support it.

Ways to cope with empty nest syndrome

Admit what you’re feeling—don’t try to minimize or ignore it, but give your kid space. They’ll have a much harder time learning to make their own decisions if you’re constantly checking up on them, doing everything for them, and asking them if they need anything. You mean well, but even good intentions can have adverse effects. Give them the tools they need to make mistakes on their own while they still have your safety net to fall back on when they need it. And as for you, try these five tactics to make this transition a smooth one.

Take up a new hobby

So many new hobbies have cropped up since you became a parent, and now you have time to try them! From ceramics class to bodybuilding, the world is your oyster. And the best part about hobbies? You don’t have to be good at them. It’s all about trying something new and embracing the process.

Reconnect with your social circle

It can be a challenge to juggle your kid’s social life and your own. But with an empty nest, you no longer have to balance the two. From spending more time with the people you’ve always wished you saw more of to making new connections, stronger friendships are one of the best upsides to your kid’s independence.

Tackle projects around the house

Sometimes, kids are why we can’t have nice things. With your space serving different functions in their absence, now could be a great time to tackle those projects you’ve been wanting to do around the house. Need some inspo? We thought you’d never ask!

• Pamper your fur babies with some wag-worthy new pet home features
• Embrace the future with tech-savvy smart home upgrades
• Take peace and quiet to another level with noise-reducing backyard updates
• Give your home a surface-level refresh with budget-friendly interior design tricks

Make plans for the future

Whether it’s a trip you’ve always wanted to take or an activity you’ve always wanted to try, one of the best ways to ease your nostalgia is to make plans for the future. Instead of getting hung up on the way things used to be, give yourself things to look forward to. The next time you see your kids, you’ll both have exciting new experiences to share.

Practice self-care

When you’re parenting full-time, your kid is your priority. Now that they’re out in the world learning how to take care of themselves, you’ve got more opportunities to take care of yourself, too. Self-care looks different for everyone, and it doesn’t have to involve massive lifestyle changes. Indulging in a pour-over coffee setup that you didn’t have time for in the morning rush to school? That’s self-care. Going to bed early because you’re not waiting up to make sure your kid gets home safe? That’s self-care. Figure out what you enjoy, and enjoy it. Simple as that.

What if I don’t have empty nest syndrome?

There’s nothing wrong with feeling happy about your empty nest. Parenting is hard work. That doesn’t go away when your kid leaves the house, so it’s completely valid to embrace and enjoy the change of pace while you can. They’ll be home for Thanksgiving before you know it, anyway.

Your kid will be home for the holidays before you know it. In the meantime, try our tips for navigating empty nest syndrome.

The post Tips for Overcoming Empty Nest Syndrome appeared first on Cardinal Financial.

8 Most Popular House Styles in the US

As with just about everything in the United States, home architecture is an eclectic mix of influences from all over the globe. From historic English woodwork to cool Tuscan tiling, the most popular styles in the country can be hard to pin down. Many homes today will probably have elements of multiple styles, but we’ve rounded up eight of the most-loved looks you’re likely to see on the market.

• Cape Cod
• Colonial
• Contemporary
• Craftsman
• Mediterranean
• Ranch
• Tudor
• Victorian

Ready to get this house tour started? Let’s go.

Cape Cod Home Architecture

A fixture on the east coast, Cape Cod-style homes feature steep roofs, central chimneys, and shuttered windows. Settlers originally designed these homes to conserve heat and keep too much snow from accumulating on the roof, which may still be a priority if you’re looking to buy a home in the northeast US. As the name implies, this home style is also known for its coastal charm.

Escape to the Cape: Learn more about Cape Cod architecture here.

Colonial Home Architecture

If you’re looking for simple symmetry, a Colonial house could be right for you. This classic architecture style can be found all over the country, but especially in the New England area. In the southeast US, you can typically find French-style Colonial homes with wraparound porches and multiple doorways. There’s a wide variety of Colonial styles, but it ultimately comes down to rectangular shapes, simple floor plans, and symmetric sightlines.

Colonial Collection: See how to spot a Colonial-style home with these examples.

Contemporary Home Architecture

Contemporary home architecture (not to be confused with the strictly minimalist features of modernism) is all about natural light, sustainable materials, and biophilic design* in general. If you’re looking for a home that’s in harmony with nature, Contemporary architecture fits the bill. The floorplans tend to be spacious and sprawling, which means you’re more likely to find these in areas like the southwest, where there’s plenty of open space available. Keep in mind that with such an emphasis on large windows to maximize natural light, you’ll want to consider a sustainable energy source to keep your utility bills manageable.

*Biophilic design is architecture and interior design intentionally created to connect people with nature.

Can’t-Miss Contemporary: See Contemporary design at its finest with a look at the Tubac House in Arizona.

Craftsman Home Architecture

One of the most popular house styles in the US today is the Craftsman style. This architecture is recognizable for its use of natural materials, tapered columns, and inviting front porches. Inside, you’ll enjoy open concept floor plans and built-in features like desks, bookcases, and cabinets to save space. Because of this, Craftsman homes are one of the most energy-efficient styles available, which makes them popular in areas with more extreme temperatures in the summer and winter seasons.

Craft Corner: Get a feel for the Craftsman style with these examples.

Mediterranean Home Architecture

The mild climate of the west coast means Mediterranean architecture is prevalent in the area, especially in California. Mediterranean architecture is characterized by warm colors, terracotta roofs, and welcoming spaces that blend indoor and outdoor access. If you’re looking for a timeless home, this style can give you that ideal balance of classic and modern elements.

Mediterranean Musings: Find more Mediterranean inspiration here.

Ranch Home Architecture

Ranch homes are typically single-story and open concept. Easily identifiable by large windows and low rooflines, Ranch-style architecture is gaining popularity across the US but is usually found in warmer areas like the south and southwest. These homes often include basements, which could be an important safety feature if you plan to live in a tornado-prone area like Texas, Kansas, or Oklahoma.

Ranch Round-Up: Explore modern examples of Ranch style here.

Tudor Home Architecture

If a home made of quality materials that stand the test of time is a priority for you, Tudor-style home architecture may be just what you’re looking for. Tudor houses typically include gabled roofs, brick exteriors, and narrow windows. This house style is most often found in the midwest and northeast. The cons of Tudor architecture include less natural light and difficulty renovating if you change your mind later.

Tudor To-Do List: Explore stunning examples of Tudor architecture here.

Victorian Home Architecture

Not a fan of modern architecture? Then you’ll love the bright colors, ornate woodwork, and round angles of Victorian-style homes. Buying a Victorian home these days will probably entail some fixing up, so don’t forget to account for renovation costs in your budget. You can find Victorian architecture just about anywhere, but Georgia, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania may be your best bets for residential Victorian properties with the modern conveniences you need.

Victorian Views: San Francisco, CA is home to one of the most iconic examples of Victorian home architecture, the Painted Ladies.

How do I decide which of the most popular house styles is right for me?

If you’re not sure which style is your best fit, take our tried-and-true advice and start with a chart.

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list of potential styles to consider. And if you’re building your home, you may be able to pick and choose elements of each to create something that fits all your wants and needs. Either way, enjoy the search! It’s one of the fun parts of the home loan process.

Knowing which notable features are a priority for your next home can help you narrow down which popular house style is for you.

The post The Most Popular House Styles and Where to Find Them appeared first on Cardinal Financial.